aging hardware Archives

Tech Optimizer

January 7, 2026

Norton in 2026: Is the Old-School Antivirus Brand Still Worth Your Trust?

Norton has evolved into a comprehensive cybersecurity suite by 2026, transitioning from traditional antivirus software to a holistic solution under Gen Digital Inc. Its offerings include Norton 360, which provides real-time malware and ransomware protection, a built-in unlimited data VPN, password management, dark web monitoring, and identity protection on higher tiers. The Norton 360 Deluxe plan is popular for households, offering high protection scores, a usable VPN, dark web monitoring, cross-platform support, and identity protection features. Users appreciate its ease of use, strong protection record, and the value of the VPN, while some express frustration with upselling, auto-renew pricing, and performance on older machines. Norton competes with brands like Bitdefender, Kaspersky, and McAfee, with its all-in-one convenience being a key advantage. It is suitable for families and less tech-savvy users but may not be ideal for those preferring minimalist setups or who have older hardware.

Winsage

January 6, 2026

Windows 11 Trails Older OS Versions in ThinkPad X220 Speed Tests

Windows 11 has been tested on a Lenovo ThinkPad X220, revealing it to perform poorly compared to its predecessors, particularly Windows 8.1, which excelled in benchmarks for boot times and application launches. The test involved various Windows versions (XP, Vista, 7, 8.1, 10, and 11) on the same aging hardware, highlighting that Windows 11 consistently finished last in most categories. The ThinkPad X220 does not meet Windows 11’s minimum requirements, lacking essential components like TPM 2.0 and a compatible processor, which may have skewed the results. Critics argue that using outdated hardware for testing is not representative, suggesting that a fair comparison would involve flagship devices from each generation. Windows 11's architecture is designed for modern multicore CPUs and SSDs, which may struggle on older hardware. Additionally, Windows 11 has heavier overheads due to advanced security features, which consume resources that older operating systems do not. User feedback indicates frustration with Windows 11's performance on legacy hardware compared to leaner alternatives like Linux. Despite Microsoft promoting optimizations in Windows 11, these did not manifest in the ThinkPad test, and the findings raise concerns for businesses considering upgrades as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support date in 2025.

Tech Optimizer

December 27, 2025

Best Virus Protection for PC (2026): Webroot Rated Top Choice for Fast Threat Detection by Software Experts

Webroot has been identified as the leading platform for rapid threat detection and lightweight PC security, according to a recent analysis by Software Experts. The evaluation highlighted Webroot's cloud-based threat intelligence, efficient scanning, and low system resource usage, making it suitable for home and small office users concerned about malware, phishing, and system slowdowns. Webroot's detection system can classify files within seconds, even during multitasking, and it effectively addresses behavior-based attacks through monitoring tools and rollback features. The platform's advantages include minimal local footprint, continuous monitoring without large updates, and robust firewall and network safeguards. Users expect virus protection tools to function quietly with minimal maintenance, and Webroot's compact installer and rapid setup cater to this need. The study also noted a shift towards cloud-based cybersecurity solutions, with Webroot's cloud network facilitating faster identification and categorization of threats. Key features of Webroot's protection include real-time scanning, behavioral monitoring, rollback tools, anti-phishing functions, browser shields, and network filtering, all designed to operate with minimal user intervention.

Winsage

December 12, 2025

Repurposing an ‘Obsolete’ Windows 10 Laptop into a Thin Client, Part 1 — Virtualization Review

42% of desktop systems were still operating on Windows 10 as of mid-October 2025, leaving millions of devices unsupported and vulnerable to security risks. Organizations are considering either investing in new Windows 11 devices or repurposing old PCs into thin clients. The RepurpOS thin-client operating system can revitalize aging hardware, such as the Dell E7440 laptop, which is available for around 0 on platforms like eBay. RepurpOS requires modest hardware specifications: an Intel or AMD x86 CPU, 2 GB of RAM, and 4 GB of persistent storage. It is offered through a subscription model that is more affordable than Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates for Windows 10. The installation process for RepurpOS is straightforward, and it supports various remote desktop protocols, including Citrix, Horizon, and AWS. Testing with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) shows that modern implementations provide fast and secure remote access with features like Adaptive Graphics and GPU-accelerated rendering.

AppWizard

November 28, 2025

Nvidia is giving away a free, Battlefield 6-themed RTX 5090 worth $2,000, and all you need to do is grovel

Nvidia is hosting a giveaway for a Battlefield 6-themed GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card, valued at approximately ,000. To enter, participants must comment on Nvidia's post on their X page, including the phrase "GeForce Season" and explaining why they deserve the upgrade. The entry process is simple compared to previous giveaways that required video submissions. The RTX 5090 is designed for high 4K performance and is functionally similar to other models in its class, despite its unique design. No timeline for winner selection has been provided.

AppWizard

October 22, 2025

Top 8 Android Apps For October 2025: AI, Automation & Life Hacks

Co-Reply offers AI-powered reply suggestions for messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Instagram, processing data locally without cloud uploads. Panda uses on-device AI for app navigation via voice commands, with a daily limit of 15 tasks in its free version and unlimited tasks in the Pro version. Taii provides real-time writing assistance across various platforms, including grammar corrections and tone adjustments. TMPAD is a performance controller that optimizes frame rates and resolution for apps on older devices. Audio Output Switcher allows users to easily switch sound output options without navigating through menus. Network Switch enables one-tap switching between 4G and 5G to save battery life. Hackne compares Uber and Lyft fares side-by-side without requiring registration or data collection. Nora consolidates feeds from multiple social media platforms into a single app. Pixel Play enhances offline music playback, and Virtual Shuffle improves Spotify's randomization algorithm. Many of these apps require initial setup and permission grants but cater to privacy-conscious users and provide practical solutions.

Winsage

October 19, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ends: Users Switch to Linux Like Zorin OS

Microsoft ended free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting many users to explore open-source alternatives, particularly Linux distributions. Zorin OS, an Ubuntu-based distribution designed to mimic Windows interfaces, reported a significant increase in downloads and installations from former Windows 10 users seeking secure, cost-free operating systems. Industry analysts noted that many users are reluctant to pay for Microsoft's extended security updates, especially for older hardware that does not meet Windows 11's requirements. This has led to discussions about privacy concerns and dissatisfaction with Microsoft's ecosystem, contributing to what some are calling a "Windows exodus." Zorin OS has capitalized on this shift by offering a user-friendly experience with a Windows-like desktop layout and compatibility tools, attracting non-technical users. The open-source community sees this as a critical moment for mainstream Linux adoption, potentially challenging Windows' long-standing dominance. Hardware companies are also responding by offering Linux-preloaded devices. While challenges like software compatibility exist, the current momentum presents an opportunity for Linux advocates to convert new users into loyal supporters.

Winsage

October 13, 2025

Repair Advocates Tell Microsoft: Stop the ‘End of Windows 10’

Microsoft reports a 62% reduction in security incidents with Windows 11 compared to Windows 10. The upgrade to Windows 11 is free for devices meeting hardware specifications, and an extended security update program for Windows 10 users is available until October 13, 2026. Critics, including CALPIRG, argue that the transition could lead to increased electronic waste, as many of the estimated 400 million Windows 10 users may lack the necessary hardware for the upgrade. Concerns include potential security risks when Windows 10 no longer receives updates, leading to discarded computers. Advocacy efforts have previously resulted in extended security updates for U.S. schools and free updates for Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area. The right to repair movement has initiated the End of 10 initiative to assist users in migrating to Linux. Some IT professionals view the transition as a necessary evolution in technology, emphasizing the importance of upgrading for security reasons.

Winsage

September 30, 2025

11 things I love (and hate) about Windows 11 after using Windows 10

The transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 has prompted users to reflect on the differences between the two operating systems. Key observations from a week-long comparison include: - Windows 11 features an upgraded Windows Explorer with tabbed browsing for better file management. - The Screen Capture tool in Windows 11 allows for seamless screen recording, improving upon the previous version. - Windows 11 includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities in the Snipping Tool, enabling easy text extraction from images. - It comes with bundled applications like Clipchamp, Copilot, and an upgraded Photos app, which enhance functionality compared to Windows 10. - Performance metrics suggest Windows 11 can be up to 2.3 times faster than Windows 10. - Windows 11 is designed to offer better security for personal information and system integrity. Negative aspects of Windows 11 include: - Increased surveillance and personalized advertising, making it harder to use without a Microsoft account. - The Start button has been relocated to a central position, which some users dislike, though customization options are available. - The right-click menu has become more cluttered, making essential options harder to find. - Microsoft is phasing out security updates for Windows 10, raising concerns for users who have not transitioned to Windows 11.

Winsage

September 5, 2025

Firefox ESR won’t quit Windows 7 until March 2026

Mozilla has extended support for Firefox ESR 115 for Windows 7 users until March 2026. Firefox 115 is the last version compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. Microsoft ended support for these operating systems, while Mozilla continues to provide security updates through the ESR channel. Initially, support was set to end in September 2024, then extended to 2025, and now to March 2026. The end of support for Windows 7 was officially marked in 2020, with security updates available until January 10, 2023. Mozilla plans to discontinue support for 32-bit Linux with Firefox 144, and Firefox 145 will not support 32-bit Linux users, who will need to revert to Firefox ESR 140 until at least September 2026.