6 Developer Options to Enable on Windows 11

Key Takeaways:

• Enabling developer options on your device will increase its functionality.
• You should be careful because some developer functions allow third parties to access your computer.
• Developer Mode unlocks additional features, such as installing and running apps outside the Microsoft Store.

Option 1: Developer Mode

Enabling Developer Mode in Windows 11 provides several advanced settings, options, and features primarily for software developers and IT professionals. It’s a crucial option because:

• Developer Mode lets you sideload apps (install apps from any source), which is significant for testing your apps or using ones not in the Microsoft Store (e.g., Google Chrome).
• Enabling Developer Mode also gives you more control over your system, allowing you to adjust settings and install restricted apps.
• Thirdly, you need Developer Mode to run Android apps on Windows 11. It allows sideloading a modified WSA for Google Play Store access.

This feature doesn’t restrict the installation of classic desktop (Win32) apps from any source. It only affects Microsoft Store apps (using the .msixbundle extension).

Option 2: Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), another crucial developer option Windows 11 users should enable. It provides developers with a powerful toolset for cross-platform development and efficient use of Linux-based tools. This is because:

• WSL lets you run a GNU/Linux environment directly on Windows, unmodified. It gives you access to command-line tools without needing a virtual machine or dual-boot.
• With WSL, you can develop and test Linux applications on your Windows device, which is great for developers using cross-platform libraries.
• WSL integrates smoothly with Windows, allowing you to use your preferred Linux distribution, such as Ubuntu, Debian, or Fedora.

Option 3: Hyper-V

Hyper-V, one of the least used but important Windows 11 built-in features, is a virtualization technology developers, IT professionals, and students should enable. Enabling it on Windows 11 matters because:

• Hyper-V allows multiple OS to run on one physical machine simultaneously, aiding testing and development without extra hardware.
• Virtual machines (an advantage of computers over phones) reduce hardware costs, enabling computer science and engineering students to explore various software environments.
• Verify that your system meets the requirements (64-bit OS, SLAT processor, 4 GB RAM, virtualization support) and that you have enabled Hyper-V through Windows Features.

Option 4: PowerShell Scripting

Enabling PowerShell Scripting in Windows 11 is one of the essential developer options because it provides a powerful and flexible scripting language for automating tasks and managing system configurations. The following is why PowerShell Scripting is considered a developer option:

1. When enabled, it lets you automate tasks, handle system configurations, and execute scripts, granting you powerful tools for system administration and customization.
2. You can set the execution policy to manage how PowerShell scripts run, with several options such as:
   • RemoteSigned for local scripts to run without signing, but requires signing for remote scripts.
   • Restricted to disable script execution.
   • Other policies like Unrestricted and AllSigned offer varying security levels.
3. Whether you’re writing custom scripts, managing servers, or troubleshooting, PowerShell provides an adaptable environment for development and administration.

Option 5: Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop provides one of the most valuable Windows 11 options developers can enable because it enables a convenient way to access and control their systems remotely. It grants the flexibility to work from anywhere, collaborate with others, and efficiently manage their development environments.

This option is valuable because:

• Remote Desktop lets you connect to your PC from anywhere, ideal for checking downloads, managing apps, or transferring files remotely.
• Use the Remote Desktop feature on your home network. NLA adds a login layer requiring your password for security. Avoid direct internet exposure; use a VPN for outside access.
• Remote Desktop provides tech support and troubleshooting for other users.
• Developers can remotely access their development environments, including IDEs and code repositories.

Option 6: Windows Insider Program

The Windows Insider Program provides developers a unique opportunity to lead in Windows innovation. It offers various opportunities and insights into the future of Windows, making it a valuable initiative for both users and developers. This is because:

• As an Insider, you access new Windows features early, allowing you to explore them before public release.
• Your participation lets you give feedback, helping to align Windows 11 with user needs.
• Developers can prepare for upcoming changes, benefiting users with updated apps and features.