backup feature Archives

Winsage

July 31, 2025

Microsoft’s new “move to Windows 11” campaign implies buying OneDrive paid plan

Microsoft has released a video reminding Windows 10 users about the upcoming end-of-life date and the ease of migrating to Windows 11 without losing personal data. The animation highlights the system backup feature, which allows users to preserve and migrate their system settings, applications, preferences, and personal files to a new PC by enrolling their device in the backup. A Microsoft account is necessary for storing these settings and preferences, while OneDrive is emphasized for safeguarding personal files. The free OneDrive plan offers only 5 GB of storage, which may not be sufficient for users with large data needs. Microsoft suggests upgrading to a OneDrive plan, but some users are hesitant to rely on it due to the additional cost. An alternative method for backing up personal data involves using an external disk. Microsoft also notes the limitations of the free OneDrive plan in the video. Additionally, there is a suggestion to reintroduce the Nearby sharing feature for easier file transfers between Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems in the upcoming 24H2 update.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

I have a lot of Windows PCs, and these are my 6 tips for managing multiple Windows PCs at home

To manage multiple Windows 11 PCs effectively, consider the following practices: 1. Use Windows Backup to back up settings and app lists to the cloud, simplifying device setup and restoration. A Microsoft account is required for this feature. 2. Disable OneDrive folder backups to avoid complications from limited free storage and syncing issues. 3. Utilize the Windows Package Manager (winget) to manage applications across devices by exporting and importing lists of installed apps. 4. Enable nearby sharing in the Settings app to transfer files between devices without internet reliance. 5. Use a software KVM, like Microsoft's Mouse Without Borders, to control multiple PCs with a single keyboard and mouse. 6. Implement a remote desktop tool, such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, for remote access and control of other PCs.

Winsage

July 1, 2025

The popularity of Windows 10 has plummeted

As of June 2025, Windows 10's market share has decreased to 48.9 percent from 53.2 percent the previous month, while Windows 11's share has increased from 43.2 percent to 48 percent. Earlier versions like Windows 7, XP, and 8 have significantly lower shares at 2 percent, 0.4 percent, and 0.3 percent, respectively. In Russia, Windows 10's market share slightly decreased from 74.8 percent to 74.6 percent, with Windows 11 at 19.6 percent. The decline in Windows 10's market share is attributed to the upcoming end of support in October 2025, prompting users to switch to Windows 11. Tom's Guide suggests using the Windows Backup feature for continued updates on Windows 10 after support ends.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Microsoft extends free Windows 10 security updates into 2026, with strings attached

Microsoft is integrating Microsoft Accounts more prominently in Windows 11, encouraging users to migrate from Windows 10. The Windows Backup feature aids users in transitioning to a new Windows 11 PC, with a temporary grace period for Windows 10 users. Yusuf Medhi, Microsoft’s Consumer Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the ease of using Windows Backup for transferring data and settings. Users with a Microsoft Account can also earn points through the Microsoft Rewards program to enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Signing in with a Microsoft Account is necessary for ESU enrollment, and users must log back in if they reset or reinstall Windows on a new device. Once enrolled, a Windows 10 PC continues to receive security updates even if the user signs out of their Microsoft Account or stops using Windows Backup.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2025

Norton Antivirus Review 2025: Solid Value for Fast, Effective Protection

Norton Antivirus has a score of 8.6 out of 10 and was established in 1982. The Norton 360 Deluxe package includes features such as real-time protection, manual and automated scans, the Genie Scam Detector, a password manager, and 2GB of cloud backups. It offers four plans: Norton Antivirus Plus, Norton 360 Standard, Norton 360 Deluxe, and Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus, each with varying identity protection features and cloud backup space. The installation process is user-friendly, and the software operates efficiently, using minimal CPU and disk space. Norton has maintained a perfect security ranking from AV-Test for over a decade but has experienced a data breach in the past five years. Customer support includes a knowledge base, community forum, and 24/7 live chat and phone support, with an overall customer support score of 8 out of 10. Norton’s pricing is competitive, particularly for higher-tier plans, resulting in a value ranking of 8 out of 10.

Winsage

June 16, 2025

Microsoft is trying a new way to get you to ditch Windows 10

Windows 10 will be retired on October 14, 2025, after which it will no longer receive software and security updates. Currently, 53.2 percent of Windows computers worldwide run on Windows 10, while 43.2 percent use Windows 11. Users can upgrade to Windows 11 for free or by purchasing a new PC, but many older machines may not meet the minimum system requirements. Microsoft has reached out to Windows 10 users via email to remind them of the end of support and has introduced a new feature in Windows Backup to help transfer data to a new PC. This feature, labeled “Transfer information to a new PC,” is expected to be rolled out across all Windows 10 builds. Microsoft has also announced that Microsoft 365 apps will continue to receive security updates for an additional three years after the retirement date.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Niagara Launcher, one of the best Android launchers, finally has backups

Niagara Launcher has released a "Winter Update" that includes a backup feature allowing users to securely save and restore their launcher settings, integrating with Android's backup system to archive settings to Google Drive. This feature is available in both free and pro versions and can be accessed through the app's settings. Additionally, a new tool called the Usage Breaker, exclusive to Niagara Pro users, helps manage screen time by reminding users of excessive app usage without restricting access. The launcher maintains a minimalist design with a vertically scrolling list of apps for easy navigation. The latest beta version is available for download, with updates rolling out to all users soon.