In the world of technology, updates and upgrades are supposed to bring improvements and enhancements. However, for Windows 11, the reality seems to be quite different. Former Microsoft engineer Andy Young has publicly criticized the operating system, calling its performance "comically bad" and labeling it as unfinished.

System Requirements and Security Concerns

When Microsoft introduced Windows 11, it came with stringent system requirements that were intended to enhance OS security. Yet, Young argues that these measures, such as Secure Boot, fail to significantly protect systems. Even aspects as innocuous as firmware maker's logos could pose potential threats, rendering some of the mandatory security requirements ineffective.

Expectations vs. Reality

With modern supported processors and the inclusion of SSDs in most systems, users expected that Windows 11 would deliver solid performance. Microsoft itself had set high expectations, claiming that the OS was optimized for speed and efficiency. Despite these assurances, many users report that their systems, even those with powerful specifications, run frustratingly slow.

The Switch to Alternatives

Due to ongoing performance issues, some users have started looking for alternatives. Linux, known for its robust security and now receiving a significant boost in AES encryption performance, has become a popular choice. Others have opted for modified versions of Windows 11, such as AtlasOS, which promises better efficiency.

The Insider's View

Andy Young, who once contributed to building Microsoft's software, expressed his disappointment with the current state of Windows 11. He described the performance of basic features like the Start menu as unacceptably slow, despite using a high-end PC configured with an Intel Core i9 processor and 128 GB of system memory.

Ads and Promotions Impact

Young also pointed out that the performance issues might be exacerbated by the system's handling of ads and promotions. Microsoft is considering adding a dedicated button for promotional content, which could further clutter the interface and slow down the system.

Future Prospects

Looking forward, it remains uncertain whether the upcoming version, Windows 11 24H2, will address these performance issues. Insider builds suggest that problems persist, casting doubt on the potential improvements in the next official release.

Community Fixes

In response to these ongoing issues, the Windows community has not been passive. Users and enthusiasts have discovered various tweaks and workarounds that can improve system performance. Some have even found that specific bugs, when exploited, can enhance the operating system's speed.

Conclusion

As Microsoft prepares for future updates, the tech community watches closely, hoping for significant improvements. The feedback from insiders like Andy Young is crucial in highlighting the real-world impacts of software development decisions. Whether Microsoft will heed these insights and deliver a truly refined Windows 11 experience remains to be seen.