application installation Archives

Winsage

May 1, 2025

3 reasons I prefer managing packages with WinGet over Chocolatey now

Package managers streamline software installation and management on PCs, with WinGet being Microsoft's user-friendly solution for Windows 11. Unlike Chocolatey, which requires complex setup, WinGet is ready to use out of the box after accepting license terms. It integrates with PowerToys, allowing users to execute commands via the Command Palette without opening a Terminal. Additionally, WinGet manages applications from the Microsoft Store, providing a comprehensive experience that can yield more relevant search results. While Chocolatey has a larger repository and advanced features for professionals, WinGet is more accessible for average users.

Winsage

March 27, 2025

Windows 11 KB5053656 update released with 38 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the KB5053656 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, featuring 38 enhancements, including real-time translation capabilities for Copilot+ PCs with AMD and Intel processors. This update addresses authentication issues and blue-screen errors, and is classified as an "optional non-security preview update." It introduces live captions and real-time translation support for over 44 languages, enhances Windows Search with improved capabilities, and fixes issues related to the MsiCloseHandle API and boot menu entries. The update also phases out the Location History feature and acknowledges known issues affecting Citrix components and Roblox on Windows Arm devices. Users can install the update via Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update upgrades systems to build 26100.3624. Windows 11 24H2 is broadly deployed and accessible to all users.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

3 reasons Chocolatey is an amazing package manager for Windows

Chocolatey is a package manager for Windows 11 that requires initial setup via PowerShell commands but is easy to use once installed. It excels in automation, allowing users to create custom scripts for package deployment and integrates with Ansible for provisioning on virtual machines. Chocolatey has an extensive repository with over 10,000 applications and supports multiple package formats. While the free version is suitable for average users, premium features require a paid license, and alternatives like WinGet may be better for those seeking free and open-source options.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Need a Windows 10 alternative? Still miss XP? This Linux distro is for you

Since the late 1990s, the journey through Linux and open-source technology has aimed to simplify the operating system for newcomers, especially those transitioning from Windows. The Q40S distribution, also known as XPQ4, offers rethemed versions that mimic Windows 10 or Windows XP. Q40S is based on Debian, and XPQ4 provides the Windows-like appearance. FreeXP resembles Windows XP, while Free10 mirrors Windows 10. The FreeXP version includes the Bliss Wallpaper and a familiar Start button, while Free10 aligns more closely with Windows 10. The installation of Free10 is straightforward, and it features a quality interface that captures the essence of Windows 10. The Q40S Welcome Screen offers access to various tools, including the Desktop Profile tool for alternative desktop environments. Free10 presents a standard KDE Plasma menu with a Windows 10-like twist. Users can customize the bottom panel and themes, but changing the theme may detract from the Windows 10 experience. Application installation differs from Windows, requiring Wine for .exe files, while KDE Discover provides a user-friendly interface for installing applications. Free10 does not have Flatpak support enabled by default, but it can be added. Free10 is suitable for those transitioning from Windows 10 to a cost-free operating system with ongoing support and security. It can be downloaded and installed on multiple computers, making it a reliable alternative to traditional operating systems.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

5 reasons I can’t go back to Windows after trying Linux

Linux distributions are popular in the server realm but remain a niche in the broader computing landscape dominated by Windows. The command-line interface (CLI) in Linux aids troubleshooting with detailed logs and accessible commands, unlike Windows, which often requires extensive navigation. Linux package managers, such as Yum and Nix, offer a more secure and straightforward application installation process compared to Windows tools like WinGet and Chocolatey. Linux distributions have lower performance overhead, making them suitable for older devices, while Windows 11 has high system requirements. Linux is viewed as better for privacy, avoiding intrusive advertisements and telemetry services present in Windows. The versatility of Linux allows it to cater to various computing needs, enabling users to transform installations into servers, media hubs, or NAS. Despite its advantages, Windows still excels in certain areas, such as game compatibility and access to Adobe products, which may require a Windows virtual machine for Linux users.

Winsage

November 30, 2024

9 Windows utilities every power user should know about

Windows 11 includes various tools for system management, catering to both novice and advanced users. 1. Task Manager: Allows users to manage applications, monitor CPU, RAM, and disk usage, manage startup applications, and create memory dump files for troubleshooting. 2. Device Manager: Helps resolve hardware issues by identifying malfunctioning components, rolling back problematic drivers, and manually installing drivers. 3. Resource Monitor: Provides detailed graphs of CPU, disk, and memory usage, along with specific process details for diagnosing performance issues. 4. System Configuration: Useful for booting into Safe Mode for diagnostics and troubleshooting driver-related issues. 5. Task Scheduler: Automates tasks based on triggers, allowing users to launch programs simultaneously and set up recurring tasks. 6. Windows Terminal: A powerful interface for power users that provides access to system maintenance tools and allows application installation and user account management. 7. Registry Editor: Enables advanced users to modify system settings that are otherwise inaccessible, with caution advised due to potential system instability. 8. Event Viewer: Monitors system events, logs blue screen errors (BSODs), and provides critical information for diagnosing system failures. 9. Disk Management: Oversees connected drives and manages partitions, allowing users to create, delete, format volumes, and attach virtual hard drives.

Winsage

August 1, 2024

How to update all your Windows PC’s apps with a single click

UniGetUI is a graphical user interface for Windows that simplifies application management through various package managers, including Winget. It features a sidebar with options such as Discover Packages, Software Updates, and Installed Packages. Users can search for new programs in the Discover Packages section and install them by right-clicking. The Software Updates section lists installed programs with available updates, which are pre-selected for easy updating. The Installed Packages section shows all software on the system, allowing users to uninstall or reinstall applications directly from the context menu.

Winsage

August 1, 2024

WinGet can now download Microsoft Store app installers for offline distribution

WinGet has introduced compatibility with Microsoft Store apps in version 1.8, allowing users to download and install applications directly from the Store. WinGet, launched by Microsoft in 2020, is a command-line utility for managing applications on Windows 10 and Windows 11. Users can now download offline copies of Store apps using command-line instructions, such as "winget download Calculator -s msstore," and install them locally with "Add-AppxPackage -Path C:Usersusernamedownloads9WZDNCRFHVN5Calculator.appx" in PowerShell. The update also includes features like HTTP Proxy support, PowerShell Modules for Arm64, and archive extraction capabilities.