Technology publication MakeUseOf has detailed several lesser known features in Windows 11 that help users simplify daily interaction with Microsoft's operating system.
Writing for the technology portal, journalist Pankil Shah highlighted built-in tools that can speed up software maintenance, safely isolate unknown files, and streamline multi-device workflows.
Microsoft released Windows 11 as the current flagship version of its widely used desktop operating system. While millions of personal computer users interact with the system daily, many built-in utilities and command line tools remain unused by average consumers.
Command line updates and task controls
Among the primary recommendations, Shah noted that users can update all installed applications at once using the Windows command line interface. Entering the command winget upgrade -all into the terminal window and pressing Enter triggers an automatic update scan and installation process across all recognized software programs on the machine.
The command line tool utilizes the Windows Package Manager service, an official utility designed by Microsoft to automate software installation and package management directly from the terminal without opening individual application updaters.
For managing unresponsive applications, Shah advised against opening the traditional Task Manager utility. Instead, he recommended right-clicking the stuck application directly on the Windows 11 taskbar and selecting the End Task option to close the frozen program quickly.
System sandboxing and mobile integration
The MakeUseOf report also highlighted Windows Sandbox, an isolated desktop environment separate from the core operating system kernel. Shah explained that this virtual space allows users to test unknown applications and inspect suspicious files without risking harm to the main system. Once the sandbox window is closed, all activities and files generated within that session are automatically erased, leaving no trace on the computer.
Windows Sandbox is a built-in security feature designed for safe testing, providing a temporary virtual machine environment that discards all data upon exit to prevent malware or system corruption from affecting the main installation.
In addition, Shah pointed to the Phone Link feature, which enables users to run Android smartphone applications directly on a Windows computer. When operating in this mode, users can expand app content to display across the full desktop screen for easier viewing.
Phone Link is Microsoft's dedicated companion software that bridges mobile devices with desktop PCs, allowing users to handle mobile notifications, calls, and mobile interfaces directly from their desktop environment.
For laptop users, Shah suggested navigating to the Touchpad section under the Bluetooth and devices menu to configure customized quick gestures tailored to individual workflow preferences.
The report follows earlier guidance from MakeUseOf on troubleshooting system breakdowns. The publication previously outlined alternatives to completely reinstalling Windows during a computer malfunction, recommending that users first attempt to run system restore tools or uninstall recent operating system updates to resolve crashes.
