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KDE appeals to Windows 10 'exiles'
Winsage
June 4, 2025

KDE appeals to Windows 10 ‘exiles’

KDE has launched a campaign called "KDE for Windows 10 Exiles" in response to the end of support for Windows 10, which will occur on October 14. The campaign warns users that while Windows 10 will still function after this date, the lack of updates will lead to performance and security declines, increasing risks of hacking. Users face a choice between switching to the Long Term Servicing Channel, paying for extended security updates, or upgrading to Windows 11, which many are reluctant to do due to various reasons, including corporate policies and hardware incompatibility. KDE advocates for transitioning to Linux, specifically its Plasma Desktop environment, emphasizing its user-friendliness and visual appeal. While installing Linux has become easier, KDE advises users to seek help from Linux enthusiasts for a smooth transition. Once installed, KDE claims users will experience fewer data collection issues and no viruses, although users must remain vigilant against Linux malware. It is important to note that while support for many versions of Windows 10 ends on October 14, Microsoft 365 applications on Windows 10 will continue to receive security updates until 2028.
As support for Windows 10 counts down, End of 10 asks 'why not Linux?'
Winsage
May 7, 2025

As support for Windows 10 counts down, End of 10 asks ‘why not Linux?’

Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Users whose hardware does not meet the requirements for upgrading to Windows 11 have alternatives, such as transitioning to Linux. The End of 10 initiative encourages Windows 10 users to consider Linux as a way to rejuvenate their existing hardware, especially for those with machines not primarily used for gaming. To upgrade to Windows 11, users need a processor from Intel's 8th generation or AMD's Ryzen 2000 series at a minimum. The End of 10 website provides resources for users hesitant about installing Linux and addresses concerns about electronic waste, highlighting that 62 million tonnes of e-waste were generated in 2022, with projections of 82 million tonnes by 2030.
XYplorer is the best dual-pane file manager that I've used on Windows
Winsage
April 18, 2025

XYplorer is the best dual-pane file manager that I’ve used on Windows

XYplorer is a dual-pane file manager that enhances productivity with its intuitive interface and robust features, allowing simultaneous access to two folders for easier file management. It offers customization options, advanced search capabilities, file previews, batch renaming, and scripting automation. XYplorer is lightweight, providing faster performance and quicker search results compared to Windows File Explorer. It also has a portable version that can run from a flash drive without installation. XYplorer operates as trialware for 30 days, after which users can purchase a license.
5 Windows tools and apps you can't find on other operating systems
Winsage
March 25, 2025

5 Windows tools and apps you can’t find on other operating systems

Certain features remain exclusive to the Windows operating system, offering unique functionalities not available on Mac or Linux. Microsoft has developed tools like PowerToys, which includes nearly 20 utilities enhancing Windows functionality, and Windows Sandbox, providing a secure environment for testing applications. Windows Notepad serves as a basic note-taking and coding app with features like spellcheck and autocorrect. The Snipping Tool allows users to capture screenshots and extract text from images, while the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) enables seamless access to both Windows and Linux environments. These tools are designed to enhance productivity and provide significant advantages for Windows users.
Huawei Continues Its Move Away From American Software
Winsage
March 19, 2025

Huawei Continues Its Move Away From American Software

Huawei is shifting away from reliance on American software and is preparing to introduce alternatives to Microsoft Windows due to being placed on the U.S. Entity List, which limits its access to American software and services. Since launching HarmonyOS in 2021, Huawei is now set to launch its own desktop operating systems as its Microsoft license nears expiration, making it unlikely to receive an extension. Huawei plans to expand HarmonyOS into desktop and laptop PCs, potentially using the Android Open Source Project as a foundation, and may also consider various Linux distributions as alternatives to Windows. This shift could impact Microsoft's market share, especially in regions outside the U.S., and may provide opportunities for Linux to gain popularity as it closes the functionality gap with Windows.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
March 18, 2025

Gaming on Windows on Arm is getting pretty cool

Linux offers a variety of distributions, each with unique features, such as NixOS, Pop_OS! for Nvidia compatibility, Debian for stability, and lightweight options like Q4OS. Many individuals rely on a few fingers for typing despite formal training, questioning the efficiency of using all ten fingers. Windows 11 integrates OneDrive for backing up essential folders, which some users find cumbersome. QD-OLED monitors can experience burn-in, affecting visuals after a year of use. The Dell Inspiron 8500 is often remembered as a first laptop that sparked interest in technology. The rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 has users debating whether to upgrade, with some preferring to wait for broader availability. Alternatives to Windows File Explorer, such as OneCommander and Total Commander, are being explored by users. The purchase of a first graphics card, like the GTX 760, marks a significant moment in PC building for many. Music streaming preferences vary among users, with platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music being popular choices. Content creators often prefer tools like Greenshot for capturing screenshots due to reliability. Linux desktop environments, such as KDE, allow for aesthetic customization. Transforming an old PC into a smart home hub can enhance living spaces by integrating devices. The first app installed on a new system often reflects personal habits, with browsers like Firefox or gaming platforms like Steam being common choices.
Months before millions of PCs will get stuck on Windows 10, Google makes its case for running ChromeOS to use Microsoft 365
Winsage
March 12, 2025

Months before millions of PCs will get stuck on Windows 10, Google makes its case for running ChromeOS to use Microsoft 365

Google has outlined five key ways in which ChromeOS enhances the Microsoft 365 experience for organizations: 1. Microsoft 365 applications are accessible to ChromeOS users, providing a desktop-like user experience. 2. ChromeOS devices can automatically log into Microsoft 365 applications using Single Sign-On (SSO) powered by Microsoft EntraID and other providers. 3. Integration of Microsoft OneDrive with the ChromeOS Files app is seamless. 4. ChromeOS devices can utilize OneDrive storage exclusively, ensuring no local data is retained on the device. 5. These features are easily configurable for IT administrators through the Google Admin console. Google's ChromeOS Flex allows users to run ChromeOS on existing PCs without additional costs, providing a secure, cloud-based operating system as an alternative to unsupported versions of Windows. This approach aims to refresh functional devices that cannot run Windows 11. ChromeOS is particularly suited for users who primarily need to perform basic tasks like web browsing and accessing Office applications.
Freeing Windows
Winsage
March 11, 2025

Freeing Windows

Several projects have emerged as alternatives to Windows, including ReactOS, which aims to provide a free and open-source operating system. Wine allows users to run Windows applications on other platforms. Recently, Free95 was introduced, licensed under GPL-3.0, capable of running simple Windows programs, with plans for enhanced compatibility. Free95 is still in its early stages and seeks contributors on GitHub. Currently, Free95 does not pass the "Does it run Doom?" test, indicating significant challenges ahead in replicating Windows functionality. As virtualization technology improves, the need for lightweight alternatives like Free95 may decrease, although they could still benefit users with aging hardware.
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