From 0eac9d5c40476e2a108216b7b63fdcfe4d5e7a04 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: John Kaiser <35939694+CoveMiner@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Wed, 16 Oct 2024 17:43:13 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 1/4] Updates for 24H2 --- ...timal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md | 181 +++++------------- surface/surface-wireless-connect.md | 100 +++++----- 2 files changed, 89 insertions(+), 192 deletions(-) diff --git a/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md b/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md index 3f7fc1ef9..8b941e1a9 100644 --- a/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md +++ b/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ --- title: Best practice power settings for Surface devices -description: Learn best practices for optimizing power settings on Surface devices, including tips for maintaining battery life and using the power slider. +description: Learn best practices for optimizing power settings on Surface devices, including Copilot+ PCs, to extend battery life and improve energy efficiency. ms.service: windows-11 author: coveminer ms.author: chauncel @@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ ms.topic: how-to ms.reviewer: manager: frankbu ms.localizationpriority: medium -ms.date: 10/25/2022 +ms.date: 10/16/2024 appliesto: - Windows 10 - Windows 11 @@ -16,164 +16,73 @@ appliesto: # Best practice power settings for Surface devices -Surface devices are designed to take advantage of the latest advances in -mobile device energy consumption to deliver a streamlined experience -optimized across workloads. Depending on what you’re doing, Surface -dynamically fine tunes how power flows to individual hardware -components, momentarily waking up system components to handle background -tasks -- such as an incoming email or network traffic -- before returning to a -low power idle state (S0ix). +Surface devices are designed to take full advantage of the latest advancements in energy-efficient computing, offering a seamless experience across workloads. Whether using the device in an office environment, on the go, or in standby mode, Surface dynamically allocates power to individual components, waking system elements only when necessary—such as handling network traffic or notifications—before returning to a low-power state (S0ix). -## Summary of recommendations for IT administrators +## Recommendations for IT admins -To ensure Surface devices across your organization fully benefit from Surface power optimization features: +To maximize efficiency across your organization, follow these key power management best practices: -- Install the latest drivers and firmware from Windows Update or the Surface Driver and Firmware MSI. This creates the balanced power plan (aka power profile) by default and configures optimal power settings. For more information, refer to [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md). -- Avoid creating custom power profiles or adjusting advanced power settings not visible in the default UI (**System** > **Power & sleep**). -- If you must manage the power profile of devices across your network (such as in highly managed organizations), use the powercfg command tool to export the power plan from the factory image of the Surface device and then import it into the provisioning package for your Surface devices. +- **Install the latest drivers and firmware**: Regular updates from Windows Update or Surface Driver and Firmware MSI packages ensure optimal power management settings through a **balanced power plan**. This creates the most efficient configuration by default and leverages Surface's **Modern Standby** capabilities. - >[!TIP] - >You can only export a power plan across the same type of Surface device. For example, you cannot export a power plan from Surface Laptop and import it on Surface Pro. For more information, refer to [Configure power settings](/windows-hardware/customize/power-settings/configure-power-settings). +- **Use default power settings**: Avoid creating custom power profiles. The **Balanced power plan** built into Surface devices is optimized for battery life and performance. For users or IT admins who must adjust profiles, export power settings from one Surface model to ensure consistency across similar devices. -- Exclude Surface devices from any existing power management policy settings. +> [!TIP] +> Only export profiles across identical models. For example, export a power profile from one **Surface Pro 9** to another, but not between **Surface Pro** and **Surface Laptop** models. -## Background +- **Monitor battery health and usage patterns**: Use the **Surface app** to review battery usage and health over time. Encourage users to lower screen brightness and reduce background activity where possible. **Screen timeouts** and moderate brightness settings offer simple ways to prolong battery life without compromising functionality. -The way Surface implements power management differs significantly from -the earlier OS standard that gradually reduces and turns off power via a -series of sleep states; for example, cycling through S1, S2, S3, and so on. +- **Exclude Surface from group power policies**: Centralized group policies may interfere with the device-optimized power plans. Let **Surface devices** operate on their native power profile to maintain full functionality. -Instead, Surface is imaged with a custom power profile that replaces -legacy sleep and energy consumption functionality with modern standby -features and dynamic fine tuning. This custom power profile is -implemented via the Surface Serial Hub Driver and the system aggregator -module (SAM). The SAM chip functions as the Surface device power-policy -owner, using algorithms to calculate optimal power requirements. It -works in conjunction with Windows power manager to allocate or throttle -only the exact amount of power required for hardware components to -function. This article applies to all currently supported Surface devices. +- **Windows performance power slider**: Encourage users to adjust the **Windows power slider** based on their needs. Slide toward **Best Performance** for demanding tasks or toward **Best Battery Life** to conserve power. This setting allows users to quickly adjust power settings on the fly. -## Utilizing the custom power profile in Surface +- **Battery saver mode**: Enable **Battery Saver** when running on battery. This feature reduces background activities and dims the display when battery levels fall below a user-defined threshold. -If you go into the power options on a Surface device, you'll see that there's a single power plan available. This is the custom power profile. And if you go to the advanced power settings, you’ll see a much smaller subset of power options compared to a generic PC running Windows 10 or Windows 11. Unlike generic devices, Surface has firmware and custom components to manage these power options. + > **To configure Battery Saver:** + 1. Select **Start** > **Settings** > **System** > **Power & Battery**. + 2. Under **Battery**, choose **Turn battery saver on automatically if my battery falls below...** and adjust the slider. -## Modern Standby +## Modern Standby and S0ix -The algorithmically embedded custom power profile enables modern standby -connectivity for Surface by maintaining a low power state for -instant on/instant off functionality typical of smartphones. S0ix, also -known as Deepest Runtime Idle Platform State (DRIPS), is the default -power mode for Surface devices. Modern standby has two modes: +Surface devices utilize **Modern Standby** with two modes to maintain balance between power efficiency and performance: -- **Connected standby.** The default mode for up-to-the minute - delivery of emails, messaging, and cloud-synced data, connected - standby keeps Wi-Fi on and maintains network connectivity. +- **Connected Standby**: Keeps the network active for real-time delivery of emails, notifications, and cloud-synced data. +- **Disconnected Standby**: For extended battery life, this mode disables Wi-Fi and Bluetooth but still offers instant-on functionality when needed. -- **Disconnected standby.** An optional mode for extended battery - life, disconnected standby delivers the same instant-on experience - and saves power by turning off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and related network - connectivity. +By default, **S0ix**—the deepest runtime idle platform state—ensures Surface devices operate in a low-power state even when idle, helping conserve battery across all workloads. -To learn more about modern standby, refer to the [Microsoft Hardware Dev -Center](/windows-hardware/design/device-experiences/modern-standby-wake-sources). +### Integrated battery-saving features -## How Surface streamlines the power management experience +The **Surface app** and **Battery Saver mode** make it easy for users to extend battery life: -Surface integrates the following features designed to help users -optimize the power management experience: +- **Surface App for Battery Insights**: Users can monitor usage patterns, including which apps drain the most energy, and adjust accordingly. +- **Windows Battery Saver Mode**: Reduces energy consumption by limiting background activities and dimming the display automatically when the battery falls below a set threshold. -- [Singular power plan](#singular-power-plan) +For more tips on extending battery life, see: -- [Simplified power settings user - interface](#simplified-power-settings-user-interface) +- [Maximize Your Surface Battery Life](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/maximize-your-surface-battery-life-45479867-a7fa-33dd-fc4d-6762e9b3b11a) +- [Battery-Saving Tips for Windows](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/battery-saving-tips-for-windows-a850d64d-ee8e-c8d2-6c75-8ffe6ea3ea99) -- [Windows performance power - slider](#windows-performance-power-slider) +### ARM-based Copilot+ PCs and battery efficiency -### Singular power plan +With the latest ARM-based **Copilot+ PCs**, including the **Surface Pro (11th Edition)** and **Surface Laptop (7th Edition)**, energy efficiency is taken to the next level. These devices leverage **ARM processors**, which are inherently more power-efficient, enabling extended battery life for mobile workers. The combination of ARM-based architecture and Windows 11 optimization ensures a balance between performance and efficiency, supporting Modern Standby and seamless transitions between work sessions. -Surface is designed for a streamlined power management experience that -eliminates the need to create custom power plans or manually configure -power settings. Microsoft streamlines the user -experience by delivering a single power plan (balanced) that replaces -the multiple power plans from standard Windows builds. +### Best practices for extended battery life -### Simplified power settings user interface +| **Best practice** | **Where to adjust** | **Next steps** | +|-------------------|---------------------|----------------| +| Ensure devices are updated | Windows Update | Select **Settings** > **Windows Update** and check for updates. | +| Choose the best power setting | Power slider | Click the **battery icon** on the taskbar and adjust the slider. | +| Use Battery Saver | Battery settings | Go to **Settings** > **System** > **Power & Battery**, and enable **Battery Saver**. | +| Adjust screen brightness | Battery settings | Enable **Lower screen brightness while in Battery Saver**. | +| Investigate power issues | Troubleshooter | Search for **Troubleshoot Power** in the taskbar and follow instructions. | +| Monitor app usage | Surface app | Open the **Surface app** to view app energy consumption. | +| Inspect power cords | Physical inspection | Check for worn or damaged power cables. | -Surface provides a simplified UI in accord with best practice power -setting recommendations. In general, it's recommended to only adjust settings visible in the default user interface and avoid configuring advanced power settings or Group Policy settings. Using the default screen and sleep timeouts while avoiding maximum -brightness levels are the most effective ways for users to maintain -extended battery life. +### Conclusion -![Figure 1. Simplified power & sleep settings.](images/powerintrofig1.png) +By following these best practices and leveraging built-in Surface features like Modern Standby, Battery Saver, and the Surface app, IT admins can ensure optimal performance and battery life for their devices. The latest Copilot+ PCs, powered by ARM processors, offer even more power efficiency, supporting flexible work scenarios and mobile productivity. -Figure 1. Simplified power and sleep settings +For more detailed recommendations, visit: -### Windows performance power slider - -Surface devices running Windows 10 build 1709 and later include a power -slider allowing you to prioritize battery life when needed or favor performance if desired. You -can access the power slider from the taskbar by clicking on the battery -icon. Slide left for longer battery life (battery saver mode) or slide -right for faster performance. - -![Figure 2. Power slider.](images/powerintrofig2a.png) - -Figure 2. Power slider - -Power slider enables four states as described in the following table: - -| Slider mode| Description | -|---|---| -| Battery saver| Helps conserve power and prolong battery life when the system is disconnected from a power source. When battery saver is on, some Windows features are disabled, throttled, or behave differently. Screen brightness is also reduced. Battery saver is only available when using battery power (DC). To learn more, see [Battery Saver](/windows-hardware/design/component-guidelines/battery-saver).| -| Recommended | Delivers longer battery life than the default settings in earlier versions of Windows. | -| Better Performance | Slightly favors performance over battery life, functioning as the default slider mode. | -| Best Performance | Favors performance over power for workloads requiring maximum performance and responsiveness, regardless of battery power consumption.| - -Power slider modes directly control specific hardware components shown -in the following table. - -| Component | Slider functionality | -|---|---| -| Intel Speed Shift (CPU energy registers) and Energy Performance Preference hint. | Selects the best operating frequency and voltage for optimal performance and power. The Energy Performance Preference (PERFEPP) is a global power efficiency hint to the CPU. | -| Fan speed (RPM)| Where applicable, adjusts for changing conditions such as keeping fan silent in battery saver slider mode.| -| Processor package power limits (PL1/PL2).| Requires the CPU to manage its frequency choices to accommodate a running average power limit for both steady state (PL1) and turbo (PL2) workloads.| -| Processor turbo frequency limits (IA turbo limitations). | Adjusts processor and graphics performance allowing processor cores to run faster or slower than the rated operating frequency. | - ->[!NOTE] ->The power slider is entirely independent of operating system power settings whether configured from Control Panel/ Power Options, Group Policy, or related methods. - -To learn more, see: - -- [Customize the Windows performance power - slider](/windows-hardware/customize/desktop/customize-power-slider) - -- [Battery - saver.](/windows-hardware/design/component-guidelines/battery-saver) - -## Best practices for extended battery life - -| Best practice | Go to | Next steps | -|---|---|---| -| Ensure your Surface device is up to date| Windows Update | In the taskbar search box, type **Windows Update** and select **Check for updates**. | -| Choose the best power setting for what you’re doing | Power slider | In the taskbar, select the battery icon, then choose **Best performance**, **Best battery life**, or somewhere in between.| -| Conserve battery when it’s low | Battery saver | In the taskbar, select the battery icon and click **Battery settings**. Select **Turn battery saver on automatically if my battery falls below** and then move the slider further to the right for longer battery life. | -| Configure optimal screen brightness | Battery saver | In the taskbar, select the battery icon and click **Battery settings**, select **Lower screen brightness while in battery saver**. | -| Conserve power whenever you’re not plugged in | Battery saver| Select **Turn on battery saver status until next charge**.| -| Investigate problems with your power settings. | Power troubleshooter | In the Taskbar search for troubleshoot, select **Troubleshoot**, and then select **Power** and follow the instructions.| -| Check app usage | Your apps | Close apps.| -| Check your power cord for any damage.| Your power cord | Replace power cord if worn or damaged.| - -## Learn more - -- [Modern - standby](/windows-hardware/design/device-experiences/modern-standby-wake-sources) - - - -- [Customize the Windows performance power - slider](/windows-hardware/customize/desktop/customize-power-slider) - -- [Battery - saver](/windows-hardware/design/component-guidelines/battery-saver) -- [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md) \ No newline at end of file +- [Maximize Your Surface Battery Life](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/maximize-your-surface-battery-life-45479867-a7fa-33dd-fc4d-6762e9b3b11a) +- [Battery-Saving Tips for Windows](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/battery-saving-tips-for-windows-a850d64d-ee8e-c8d2-6c75-8ffe6ea3ea99) diff --git a/surface/surface-wireless-connect.md b/surface/surface-wireless-connect.md index b11eb5379..5fceec19e 100644 --- a/surface/surface-wireless-connect.md +++ b/surface/surface-wireless-connect.md @@ -8,95 +8,83 @@ ms.author: chauncel ms.topic: how-to ms.reviewer: chauncel manager: frankbu -ms.date: 11/30/2021 +ms.date: 10/16/2024 appliesto: - Windows 10 - Windows 11 --- -# Optimize Wi-Fi connectivity on Surface devices - -To stay connected with all-day battery life, Surface devices implement wireless connectivity settings that balance performance and power conservation. Outside of the most demanding mobility workloads, users can maintain sufficient wireless connectivity without modifying default network adapter or related settings. This page highlights key wireless connectivity considerations in mobile scenarios using Surface devices. - -## Prerequisites - -This document assumes you have successfully deployed a wireless network that supports 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) or later following best practice recommendations from leading equipment vendors. - -## Configuring access points for optimal roaming capabilities - -Suppose you’re managing a wireless network that’s typically accessed by many different types of client devices. In that case, it’s recommended to enable specific protocols on access points (APs) in your WLAN, as described in [Fast Roaming with 802.11k, 802.11v, and 802.11r](/windows-hardware/drivers/network/fast-roaming-with-802-11k--802-11v--and-802-11r). Surface devices can take advantage of the following wireless protocols: -- **802.11r.** “**Fast BSS Transition”** accelerates connecting to new wireless access points by reducing the frames required before your device can access another AP as you move around with your device. For Surface devices released since 2019, end-users can gain access to roaming aggressiveness settings on their device. Although modifying default settings is not recommended, users should be aware of this capability and understand how specific settings can impact their ability to remain connected. -- **802.11k.** **“Neighbor Reports”** provides devices with information on current conditions at neighboring access points. It can help your Surface device choose the best AP using criteria other than signal strength, such as AP utilization. - -Specific Surface devices can also use 802.11v “BSS Transition Management Frames,” which functions much like 802.11k in providing information on nearby candidate APs. These include Surface Pro 7 and later, Surface Laptop Studio (all generations), Surface Laptop Go (all generations), Surface Go (all generations), Surface Pro X, and Surface Laptop 3. +# Optimize Wi-Fi connectivity on Surface devices -## Managing user settings +Surface devices are designed to maintain seamless connectivity and optimize power consumption to support all-day productivity. This article provides guidance on optimizing Wi-Fi performance and outlines the key settings to ensure uninterrupted wireless connectivity across different environments. -You can achieve optimal roaming capabilities through a well-designed network that supports 802.11r and 802.11k across all access points. Ensuring that your network is appropriately configured to provide users with the best wireless experience is the recommended approach versus managing user settings on individual devices. +## Recommendations for IT admins -### Recommended user settings and best practices +To ensure your organization’s Surface devices benefit from the latest wireless optimization, follow these key recommendations: -In certain situations, modifying advanced network adapter settings built into Surface devices may facilitate a more reliable connection. However, an inability to connect to wireless resources is often due to an access point issue, networking design flaw, or environmental site issue. +- **Install the latest drivers and firmware**: Use **Windows Update** or the [Surface Driver and Firmware MSI](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md) to ensure Surface devices are up to date. Installing the latest updates improves performance, stability, and connectivity. +- **Configure access points for fast roaming**: Enable protocols like **802.11k, 802.11v, and 802.11r** to enhance roaming capabilities. These protocols allow Surface devices to transition smoothly between access points, reducing disruptions as users move between coverage areas. +- **Avoid custom configurations**: Maintain **default Wi-Fi settings** where possible to leverage the optimized factory configurations on Surface devices. These settings balance performance and power efficiency, ensuring reliability in typical usage scenarios. -> [!TIP] -> How you hold your Surface Pro or Surface Go can also affect signal strength. If you’re experiencing a loss of bandwidth, check that you’re not holding the top of the display, where the Wi-Fi radio receiver is located. Although holding the top of the display does not block wireless signals, it can trigger the device driver to initiate changes that reduce connectivity. +## Configuring access points for optimal roaming capabilities -### Keep default Auto setting for dual bandwidth capability +If you're managing wireless networks accessed by Surface devices, it's recommended to enable **802.11k, 802.11v, and 802.11r** protocols for seamless roaming. These protocols improve how Surface devices connect to the best available access points: -On most Surface devices, you can configure client network adapter settings to only connect to wireless APs over 5 gigahertz (GHz), only connect over 2.4 GHz, or let the operating system choose the best option (default Auto setting). +- **802.11r (Fast BSS Transition)**: Reduces handoff times between access points by minimizing authentication steps. +- **802.11k (Neighbor Reports)**: Provides the device with detailed information about nearby access points to optimize handoff decisions. +- **802.11v (BSS Transition Management Frames)**: Helps devices choose access points based on real-time conditions beyond signal strength, such as network congestion. -**To access network adapter settings, go to:** +**Supported devices**: Most recent Surface devices, including Surface Pro 7 and later, Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Pro X, and Surface Go models, fully support these protocols. -- **Start** > **Control panel** > **Network and Sharing Center** > **your Wi-Fi adapter** > **Properties** > **Configure** > **Advanced**. +## Managing wireless settings on Surface devices -![* wifi-band settings*.](images/wifi-band.png)
+In most cases, **default wireless settings** provide optimal performance. However, in complex network environments or in cases where users experience disruptions, IT admins can adjust key settings to improve Wi-Fi performance. - Note that 2.4 GHz has some advantages over 5 GHz: It extends further and more easily penetrates through walls or other solid objects. Unless you have a clear use case that warrants connecting to 5 GHz, leaving the Band setting in the default state is recommended to avoid possible adverse consequences. For example: +### Recommended adjustments -- Many hotspots in hotels, coffee shops, and airports still only use 2.4 GHz, effectively blocking access to devices if Band is set to 5 GHz Only. -- Since Miracast wireless display connections require the initial handshake to be completed over 2.4 GHz channels, devices won’t be able to connect at 5 GHz Only. +1. **Roaming aggressiveness**: You can configure the threshold at which Surface devices search for a new access point when the signal weakens. + - **Default**: Medium (72% signal strength). + - **Recommendation**: Increase roaming aggressiveness only if needed for environments with dense Wi-Fi networks. > [!NOTE] -> By default, Surface devices will prefer connecting to 5 GHz if available. However, Surface will first look for a 2.4 GHz connection to preserve power in a low battery state. +> Increasing roaming aggressiveness improves connectivity but can lead to faster battery depletion. -You can also toggle the band setting as needed to suit your environment. For example, users living in high-density apartment buildings with multiple Wi-Fi hotspots — amid the presence of consumer devices all broadcasting via 2.4 GHz — will likely benefit by setting their Surface device to connect on 5 GHz only and then revert to Auto when needed. +2. **Dual-band Wi-Fi capability**: By default, Surface devices dynamically switch between **2.4 GHz and 5 GHz** bands based on network availability and signal quality. -### Roaming aggressiveness settings on Surface devices +> [!TIP] +> Avoid forcing the device to connect only to the 5 GHz band, as many public Wi-Fi hotspots still use 2.4 GHz networks. -Users may wish to select a signal strength threshold that prompts the device to search for a new access point when the signal drops (roaming aggressiveness). By default, Surface devices attempt to roam to a new access point if the signal strength drops below **Medium** (72 percent signal strength). Organizations can also implement purpose-built wireless protocols across multiple network access points to facilitate roaming congested network environments, as explained earlier on this page. +To configure Wi-Fi settings: -While increasing roaming aggressiveness above **Medium** may yield improved connectivity in highly congested office or residential environments, it can result in degraded connectivity when stepping outside of these environments. +1. Open **Start** > **Device Manager**. +2. Under **Network adapters**, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select **Properties**. +3. Select the **Advanced** tab to adjust settings like **Roaming Aggressiveness** and **Preferred Band**. -Leave the roaming aggressiveness setting in the default state unless you encounter connectivity issues in specific mobile scenarios such as conducting environmental site inspections while maintaining voice and video connectivity during a conference meeting. If you don’t notice any improvement, revert to the default Medium state. Note that if you increase roaming aggressiveness, you also accelerate battery power consumption. +## Troubleshooting Wi-Fi performance -**To enable roaming aggressiveness on Surface:** +### Check for firmware and driver updates -1. Go to **Start** > **Device Manager**. -2. Under **Network adapters**, select your Wi-Fi adapter, and right-click **Properties**. -3. Select the **Advanced** tab. -4. Select **Roaming aggressiveness** and choose your preferred value from the drop-down menu. +Surface devices rely on the latest **Wi-Fi driver and firmware updates** for optimal performance. Ensure your devices stay updated by following the steps in [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md). -![Screenshot showing roaming aggressiveness settings on an Intel Wi-Fi adapter.](images/wifi-roaming-int.png)
-*Roaming aggressiveness settings on an Intel Wi-Fi adapter*
+### Minimize signal interference -![Screenshot showing roaming aggressiveness settings on a Qualcomm Wi-Fi adapter.](images/wifi-roaming-qua.png)
-*Roaming aggressiveness settings on a Qualcomm Wi-Fi adapter*
+Wireless performance can be impacted by environmental factors such as **thick walls** or **metal obstructions**. Encourage users to: -### Roaming aggressiveness settings on Surface Go +- Avoid blocking the top of the Surface Pro or Surface Go, where the Wi-Fi radio receiver is located. +- Use the device in areas with strong signal coverage and minimal interference. -Front-line workers using Surface Go may wish to select a signal strength threshold that prompts the device to search for a new access point when signal strength drops (roaming aggressiveness). By default, Surface devices attempt to roam to a new access point if the signal strength drops below **Medium** (50 percent signal strength). Note that whenever you increase roaming aggressiveness, you accelerate battery power consumption. +> [!TIP] +> When working in areas with many overlapping Wi-Fi networks (like apartment buildings), setting Surface devices to use the **5 GHz** band temporarily can reduce interference. -Leave the roaming aggressiveness setting in the default state unless you encounter connectivity issues in specific mobile scenarios such as conducting environmental site inspections while maintaining voice and video connectivity during a conference meeting. If you don’t notice any improvement, revert to the default **Medium** state. +### Optimize performance with Surface tools -**To enable roaming aggressiveness on Surface Go:** +For IT admins, the **Surface Diagnostic Toolkit** can be used to identify and resolve common connectivity issues on Surface devices. -1. Go to **Start > Control Panel** > **Network and Internet** > **Network and Sharing Center.** -2. Under **Connections**, select **Wi-Fi** and then choose **Properties.** -3. Select **Client for Microsoft Networks** and then select **Configure** -4. Select **Advanced** > **Roaming Aggressiveness** and choose your preferred value from the drop-down menu. +## Summary -![* Roaming aggressiveness settings-QualComm *.](images/wifi-roaming.png)
+Surface devices are designed to offer optimized wireless connectivity out of the box, with **default Wi-Fi settings** balancing performance and power consumption. By keeping devices updated with the latest firmware and drivers, enabling fast-roaming protocols, and using recommended configurations, organizations can ensure reliable connectivity and seamless productivity for their users. -## Conclusion +For more information, see: -Surface devices are designed with default settings for optimal wireless connectivity balanced alongside the need to preserve battery life. The most effective way of enabling reliable connectivity for Surface devices is through a well-designed network that supports 802.11r and 802.11k. Users can adjust network adapter settings or roaming aggressiveness but should only do so in response to specific environmental factors and revert to default state if there’s no noticeable improvement. +- [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md) +- [Deploy, manage, and service Arm-based Surface devices](surface-pro-arm-app-management.md) From 059a405b62ce2e08912bf434d2283073d53862eb Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: John Kaiser <35939694+CoveMiner@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Wed, 16 Oct 2024 18:07:43 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 2/4] Update maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md --- surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md b/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md index 8b941e1a9..42dedc6b1 100644 --- a/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md +++ b/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md @@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ With the latest ARM-based **Copilot+ PCs**, including the **Surface Pro (11th Ed | Monitor app usage | Surface app | Open the **Surface app** to view app energy consumption. | | Inspect power cords | Physical inspection | Check for worn or damaged power cables. | -### Conclusion +### Summary By following these best practices and leveraging built-in Surface features like Modern Standby, Battery Saver, and the Surface app, IT admins can ensure optimal performance and battery life for their devices. The latest Copilot+ PCs, powered by ARM processors, offer even more power efficiency, supporting flexible work scenarios and mobile productivity. From 696e35c7a8344afb4418a945a9bd3346033bf5b9 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: John Kaiser <35939694+CoveMiner@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:19:45 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 3/4] Update surface-supported-operating-systems.md --- surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md | 3 ++- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md b/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md index 6ed5ce430..89713b413 100644 --- a/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md +++ b/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ ms.localizationpriority: medium author: coveminer ms.author: chauncel ms.topic: overview -ms.date: 09/11/2024 +ms.date: 10/17/2024 ms.reviewer: chauncel manager: frankbu --- @@ -20,6 +20,7 @@ This article lists the versions of Windows that are supported on the Business an | Device | Windows OS | | ---------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Surface Pro (11th Edition) | - Windows 11, Version 24H2 build 26100 and later | +| Surface Pro 10 with 5G for Business | - Windows 11, Version 24H2 build 26100 and later | | Surface Pro 10 for Business | - Windows 10, Version 22H2 build 19045 and later
- Windows 11, Version 23H2 build 22631 and later | | Surface Pro 9 with Intel Processor | - Windows 10, Version 21H2 build 19044 and later
- Windows 11, Versions 22H2 build 22621 and later | | Surface Pro 9 with 5G (SQ3 Processor) | - Windows 11, Version 22H2 build 22621 and later | From f85f21372b8d7bd86da41cf25e1bc56d0a749f38 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: John Kaiser <35939694+CoveMiner@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:50:03 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 4/4] Update maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md --- ...timal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md | 181 +++++++++++++----- 1 file changed, 136 insertions(+), 45 deletions(-) diff --git a/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md b/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md index 42dedc6b1..3f7fc1ef9 100644 --- a/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md +++ b/surface/maintain-optimal-power-settings-on-Surface-devices.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ --- title: Best practice power settings for Surface devices -description: Learn best practices for optimizing power settings on Surface devices, including Copilot+ PCs, to extend battery life and improve energy efficiency. +description: Learn best practices for optimizing power settings on Surface devices, including tips for maintaining battery life and using the power slider. ms.service: windows-11 author: coveminer ms.author: chauncel @@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ ms.topic: how-to ms.reviewer: manager: frankbu ms.localizationpriority: medium -ms.date: 10/16/2024 +ms.date: 10/25/2022 appliesto: - Windows 10 - Windows 11 @@ -16,73 +16,164 @@ appliesto: # Best practice power settings for Surface devices -Surface devices are designed to take full advantage of the latest advancements in energy-efficient computing, offering a seamless experience across workloads. Whether using the device in an office environment, on the go, or in standby mode, Surface dynamically allocates power to individual components, waking system elements only when necessary—such as handling network traffic or notifications—before returning to a low-power state (S0ix). +Surface devices are designed to take advantage of the latest advances in +mobile device energy consumption to deliver a streamlined experience +optimized across workloads. Depending on what you’re doing, Surface +dynamically fine tunes how power flows to individual hardware +components, momentarily waking up system components to handle background +tasks -- such as an incoming email or network traffic -- before returning to a +low power idle state (S0ix). -## Recommendations for IT admins +## Summary of recommendations for IT administrators -To maximize efficiency across your organization, follow these key power management best practices: +To ensure Surface devices across your organization fully benefit from Surface power optimization features: -- **Install the latest drivers and firmware**: Regular updates from Windows Update or Surface Driver and Firmware MSI packages ensure optimal power management settings through a **balanced power plan**. This creates the most efficient configuration by default and leverages Surface's **Modern Standby** capabilities. +- Install the latest drivers and firmware from Windows Update or the Surface Driver and Firmware MSI. This creates the balanced power plan (aka power profile) by default and configures optimal power settings. For more information, refer to [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md). +- Avoid creating custom power profiles or adjusting advanced power settings not visible in the default UI (**System** > **Power & sleep**). +- If you must manage the power profile of devices across your network (such as in highly managed organizations), use the powercfg command tool to export the power plan from the factory image of the Surface device and then import it into the provisioning package for your Surface devices. -- **Use default power settings**: Avoid creating custom power profiles. The **Balanced power plan** built into Surface devices is optimized for battery life and performance. For users or IT admins who must adjust profiles, export power settings from one Surface model to ensure consistency across similar devices. + >[!TIP] + >You can only export a power plan across the same type of Surface device. For example, you cannot export a power plan from Surface Laptop and import it on Surface Pro. For more information, refer to [Configure power settings](/windows-hardware/customize/power-settings/configure-power-settings). -> [!TIP] -> Only export profiles across identical models. For example, export a power profile from one **Surface Pro 9** to another, but not between **Surface Pro** and **Surface Laptop** models. +- Exclude Surface devices from any existing power management policy settings. -- **Monitor battery health and usage patterns**: Use the **Surface app** to review battery usage and health over time. Encourage users to lower screen brightness and reduce background activity where possible. **Screen timeouts** and moderate brightness settings offer simple ways to prolong battery life without compromising functionality. +## Background -- **Exclude Surface from group power policies**: Centralized group policies may interfere with the device-optimized power plans. Let **Surface devices** operate on their native power profile to maintain full functionality. +The way Surface implements power management differs significantly from +the earlier OS standard that gradually reduces and turns off power via a +series of sleep states; for example, cycling through S1, S2, S3, and so on. -- **Windows performance power slider**: Encourage users to adjust the **Windows power slider** based on their needs. Slide toward **Best Performance** for demanding tasks or toward **Best Battery Life** to conserve power. This setting allows users to quickly adjust power settings on the fly. +Instead, Surface is imaged with a custom power profile that replaces +legacy sleep and energy consumption functionality with modern standby +features and dynamic fine tuning. This custom power profile is +implemented via the Surface Serial Hub Driver and the system aggregator +module (SAM). The SAM chip functions as the Surface device power-policy +owner, using algorithms to calculate optimal power requirements. It +works in conjunction with Windows power manager to allocate or throttle +only the exact amount of power required for hardware components to +function. This article applies to all currently supported Surface devices. -- **Battery saver mode**: Enable **Battery Saver** when running on battery. This feature reduces background activities and dims the display when battery levels fall below a user-defined threshold. +## Utilizing the custom power profile in Surface - > **To configure Battery Saver:** - 1. Select **Start** > **Settings** > **System** > **Power & Battery**. - 2. Under **Battery**, choose **Turn battery saver on automatically if my battery falls below...** and adjust the slider. +If you go into the power options on a Surface device, you'll see that there's a single power plan available. This is the custom power profile. And if you go to the advanced power settings, you’ll see a much smaller subset of power options compared to a generic PC running Windows 10 or Windows 11. Unlike generic devices, Surface has firmware and custom components to manage these power options. -## Modern Standby and S0ix +## Modern Standby -Surface devices utilize **Modern Standby** with two modes to maintain balance between power efficiency and performance: +The algorithmically embedded custom power profile enables modern standby +connectivity for Surface by maintaining a low power state for +instant on/instant off functionality typical of smartphones. S0ix, also +known as Deepest Runtime Idle Platform State (DRIPS), is the default +power mode for Surface devices. Modern standby has two modes: -- **Connected Standby**: Keeps the network active for real-time delivery of emails, notifications, and cloud-synced data. -- **Disconnected Standby**: For extended battery life, this mode disables Wi-Fi and Bluetooth but still offers instant-on functionality when needed. +- **Connected standby.** The default mode for up-to-the minute + delivery of emails, messaging, and cloud-synced data, connected + standby keeps Wi-Fi on and maintains network connectivity. -By default, **S0ix**—the deepest runtime idle platform state—ensures Surface devices operate in a low-power state even when idle, helping conserve battery across all workloads. +- **Disconnected standby.** An optional mode for extended battery + life, disconnected standby delivers the same instant-on experience + and saves power by turning off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and related network + connectivity. -### Integrated battery-saving features +To learn more about modern standby, refer to the [Microsoft Hardware Dev +Center](/windows-hardware/design/device-experiences/modern-standby-wake-sources). -The **Surface app** and **Battery Saver mode** make it easy for users to extend battery life: +## How Surface streamlines the power management experience -- **Surface App for Battery Insights**: Users can monitor usage patterns, including which apps drain the most energy, and adjust accordingly. -- **Windows Battery Saver Mode**: Reduces energy consumption by limiting background activities and dimming the display automatically when the battery falls below a set threshold. +Surface integrates the following features designed to help users +optimize the power management experience: -For more tips on extending battery life, see: +- [Singular power plan](#singular-power-plan) -- [Maximize Your Surface Battery Life](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/maximize-your-surface-battery-life-45479867-a7fa-33dd-fc4d-6762e9b3b11a) -- [Battery-Saving Tips for Windows](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/battery-saving-tips-for-windows-a850d64d-ee8e-c8d2-6c75-8ffe6ea3ea99) +- [Simplified power settings user + interface](#simplified-power-settings-user-interface) -### ARM-based Copilot+ PCs and battery efficiency +- [Windows performance power + slider](#windows-performance-power-slider) -With the latest ARM-based **Copilot+ PCs**, including the **Surface Pro (11th Edition)** and **Surface Laptop (7th Edition)**, energy efficiency is taken to the next level. These devices leverage **ARM processors**, which are inherently more power-efficient, enabling extended battery life for mobile workers. The combination of ARM-based architecture and Windows 11 optimization ensures a balance between performance and efficiency, supporting Modern Standby and seamless transitions between work sessions. +### Singular power plan -### Best practices for extended battery life +Surface is designed for a streamlined power management experience that +eliminates the need to create custom power plans or manually configure +power settings. Microsoft streamlines the user +experience by delivering a single power plan (balanced) that replaces +the multiple power plans from standard Windows builds. -| **Best practice** | **Where to adjust** | **Next steps** | -|-------------------|---------------------|----------------| -| Ensure devices are updated | Windows Update | Select **Settings** > **Windows Update** and check for updates. | -| Choose the best power setting | Power slider | Click the **battery icon** on the taskbar and adjust the slider. | -| Use Battery Saver | Battery settings | Go to **Settings** > **System** > **Power & Battery**, and enable **Battery Saver**. | -| Adjust screen brightness | Battery settings | Enable **Lower screen brightness while in Battery Saver**. | -| Investigate power issues | Troubleshooter | Search for **Troubleshoot Power** in the taskbar and follow instructions. | -| Monitor app usage | Surface app | Open the **Surface app** to view app energy consumption. | -| Inspect power cords | Physical inspection | Check for worn or damaged power cables. | +### Simplified power settings user interface -### Summary +Surface provides a simplified UI in accord with best practice power +setting recommendations. In general, it's recommended to only adjust settings visible in the default user interface and avoid configuring advanced power settings or Group Policy settings. Using the default screen and sleep timeouts while avoiding maximum +brightness levels are the most effective ways for users to maintain +extended battery life. -By following these best practices and leveraging built-in Surface features like Modern Standby, Battery Saver, and the Surface app, IT admins can ensure optimal performance and battery life for their devices. The latest Copilot+ PCs, powered by ARM processors, offer even more power efficiency, supporting flexible work scenarios and mobile productivity. +![Figure 1. Simplified power & sleep settings.](images/powerintrofig1.png) -For more detailed recommendations, visit: +Figure 1. Simplified power and sleep settings -- [Maximize Your Surface Battery Life](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/maximize-your-surface-battery-life-45479867-a7fa-33dd-fc4d-6762e9b3b11a) -- [Battery-Saving Tips for Windows](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/battery-saving-tips-for-windows-a850d64d-ee8e-c8d2-6c75-8ffe6ea3ea99) +### Windows performance power slider + +Surface devices running Windows 10 build 1709 and later include a power +slider allowing you to prioritize battery life when needed or favor performance if desired. You +can access the power slider from the taskbar by clicking on the battery +icon. Slide left for longer battery life (battery saver mode) or slide +right for faster performance. + +![Figure 2. Power slider.](images/powerintrofig2a.png) + +Figure 2. Power slider + +Power slider enables four states as described in the following table: + +| Slider mode| Description | +|---|---| +| Battery saver| Helps conserve power and prolong battery life when the system is disconnected from a power source. When battery saver is on, some Windows features are disabled, throttled, or behave differently. Screen brightness is also reduced. Battery saver is only available when using battery power (DC). To learn more, see [Battery Saver](/windows-hardware/design/component-guidelines/battery-saver).| +| Recommended | Delivers longer battery life than the default settings in earlier versions of Windows. | +| Better Performance | Slightly favors performance over battery life, functioning as the default slider mode. | +| Best Performance | Favors performance over power for workloads requiring maximum performance and responsiveness, regardless of battery power consumption.| + +Power slider modes directly control specific hardware components shown +in the following table. + +| Component | Slider functionality | +|---|---| +| Intel Speed Shift (CPU energy registers) and Energy Performance Preference hint. | Selects the best operating frequency and voltage for optimal performance and power. The Energy Performance Preference (PERFEPP) is a global power efficiency hint to the CPU. | +| Fan speed (RPM)| Where applicable, adjusts for changing conditions such as keeping fan silent in battery saver slider mode.| +| Processor package power limits (PL1/PL2).| Requires the CPU to manage its frequency choices to accommodate a running average power limit for both steady state (PL1) and turbo (PL2) workloads.| +| Processor turbo frequency limits (IA turbo limitations). | Adjusts processor and graphics performance allowing processor cores to run faster or slower than the rated operating frequency. | + +>[!NOTE] +>The power slider is entirely independent of operating system power settings whether configured from Control Panel/ Power Options, Group Policy, or related methods. + +To learn more, see: + +- [Customize the Windows performance power + slider](/windows-hardware/customize/desktop/customize-power-slider) + +- [Battery + saver.](/windows-hardware/design/component-guidelines/battery-saver) + +## Best practices for extended battery life + +| Best practice | Go to | Next steps | +|---|---|---| +| Ensure your Surface device is up to date| Windows Update | In the taskbar search box, type **Windows Update** and select **Check for updates**. | +| Choose the best power setting for what you’re doing | Power slider | In the taskbar, select the battery icon, then choose **Best performance**, **Best battery life**, or somewhere in between.| +| Conserve battery when it’s low | Battery saver | In the taskbar, select the battery icon and click **Battery settings**. Select **Turn battery saver on automatically if my battery falls below** and then move the slider further to the right for longer battery life. | +| Configure optimal screen brightness | Battery saver | In the taskbar, select the battery icon and click **Battery settings**, select **Lower screen brightness while in battery saver**. | +| Conserve power whenever you’re not plugged in | Battery saver| Select **Turn on battery saver status until next charge**.| +| Investigate problems with your power settings. | Power troubleshooter | In the Taskbar search for troubleshoot, select **Troubleshoot**, and then select **Power** and follow the instructions.| +| Check app usage | Your apps | Close apps.| +| Check your power cord for any damage.| Your power cord | Replace power cord if worn or damaged.| + +## Learn more + +- [Modern + standby](/windows-hardware/design/device-experiences/modern-standby-wake-sources) + + + +- [Customize the Windows performance power + slider](/windows-hardware/customize/desktop/customize-power-slider) + +- [Battery + saver](/windows-hardware/design/component-guidelines/battery-saver) +- [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md) \ No newline at end of file