built-in tools Archives

Winsage

February 23, 2025

How to Clear Cache on Windows 11 to Free Up System Resources

A cluttered computer desktop can lead to a decline in performance, indicating the need for system cleanup. Regular maintenance enhances speed, storage space, and overall functionality. Windows has built-in tools for optimization, starting with ensuring the latest updates are installed. Windows 11 features "Cleanup Recommendations" to identify large files and unused applications for deletion. The Disk Cleanup utility can remove unnecessary files like temporary internet files and system cache files, recovering disk space and improving speed. Clearing the location cache and flushing the DNS cache can also enhance performance. Additional maintenance tips include regularly emptying the Recycle Bin, organizing files, uninstalling unused applications, using external storage for large files, and running malware scans.

Winsage

February 16, 2025

12 Ways To Make Windows 11 Run Faster

Windows is a dominant operating system known for its affordability and software compatibility, but users often face performance issues. To enhance performance on Windows 11, users can: 1. Restart the device weekly and ensure it is up-to-date to resolve bugs and improve security. 2. Disable unnecessary startup applications via Settings > Apps > Startup or Task Manager. 3. Use Task Manager to monitor and terminate resource-hungry applications. 4. Uninstall unnecessary pre-installed software using tools like Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller. 5. Upgrade hardware by installing an SSD or adding RAM for better performance. 6. Regularly scan for malware using Windows Security to maintain system health. 7. Adjust power settings to "Best Performance" under Settings > System > Power & battery > Power Mode. 8. Free up disk space using built-in tools like Storage Sense or by manually deleting old files. 9. Disable unnecessary visual effects via Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects or Control Panel. 10. Pause OneDrive or other cloud storage services to reduce resource consumption during intensive tasks. 11. Disable File Explorer search indexing if frequent searches are not needed. 12. Use the system restore feature to revert to a previous state if performance issues persist.

Winsage

February 13, 2025

Don’t ignore Microsoft’s February Patch Tuesday – it’s a big one for all Windows 11 users

Microsoft's February Patch Tuesday updates, released on February 11, include KB5051987 for Windows 11 24H2 and KB5051989 for Windows 11 23H2. The updates introduce enhancements to the Taskbar and File Explorer, including improved previews and animations for Taskbar icons, a new icon in the System Tray for Windows Studio Effects, and a new simplified Chinese font named Simsun-ExtG. A feature allowing certain applications to automatically restart after signing back in has also been added. File Explorer now includes a "New Folder" command in the context menu and can restore previously open tabs at logon. The updates fix various bugs, including issues with Auto HDR in games, playback interruptions for USB audio devices, and problems with USB audio drivers. They also address issues from the January 2025 security update, such as USB camera recognition and slower shutdown processes with connected controllers. On the security side, the update resolves 56 vulnerabilities, three of which are critical. Notable vulnerabilities include CVE-2025-21391 (file deletion), CVE-2025-21418 (remote code execution), CVE-2025-21377 (authentication spoofing), and CVE-2025-21376 (malicious code execution). The updates are set to install automatically, but users can check for updates manually through Windows Update.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

5 built-in tools to use when troubleshooting Windows problems

Windows 11 is known for its stability and secure upgrade process, allowing seamless rollback to previous versions if issues occur. It includes troubleshooting tools like Event Viewer, which consolidates system event logs and helps identify causes of failures; Task Manager, which displays active applications and performance metrics; Resource Monitor, providing real-time data on resource usage; Command Prompt, enabling execution of diagnostic commands; and PowerShell, offering advanced scripting and automation capabilities. These tools assist users in diagnosing and resolving Windows-related issues effectively.

Winsage

February 7, 2025

This Microsoft Office Standalone license deal comes with AI improvements

On February 5, 2025, Microsoft raised the annual subscription fee for Microsoft 365 from to 9.99. The Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business edition is currently available at a promotional price of .97, down from 9.99, but this offer is time-sensitive and ends on February 23 at 11:59 p.m. PT. The standalone license includes essential applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, with features such as Focus Mode in Word and Data Insights in Excel. Security updates for the lifetime license will cease in 2029. Customers can inquire about the deal at Support@stackcommerce.com. Prices are subject to change.

Winsage

December 17, 2024

I Don’t See a Reason to Switch to Windows from Linux Anymore in 2025

Users are increasingly favoring Linux over Windows in dual boot setups, often using Windows as a backup. The rise of web-based tools and Software as a Service (SaaS) has diminished the importance of the operating system choice, as essential services can be accessed through web browsers. Linux offers a variety of distributions tailored to different user needs, providing customization options that Windows does not. Gaming on Linux has improved with a growing library available through Steam and the introduction of handheld consoles like the Steam Deck. Many software developers are beginning to support Linux, with notable applications like DaVinci Resolve and Surfshark VPN now available. Electron-based applications have increased the availability of productivity tools for Linux users. Linux is free from intrusive advertisements, unlike Windows 11, which can overwhelm users with promotional content. For containerization and self-hosting, Linux is considered superior due to its built-in tools and extensive documentation, offering more control and flexibility than Windows.

AppWizard

December 13, 2024

Use Android’s Built-In Settings to Cut Your Phone Usage Time in Half

The author experienced declining battery life on their Google Pixel 9 Pro due to excessive phone usage, particularly through social media and email. They utilized Android's Digital Wellbeing tools, such as app usage timers, to limit time spent on apps like Google Chrome, Gmail, Instagram, and TikTok, reducing daily usage from 4.5 hours to 3.5 hours. By implementing bedtime mode and placing the phone face down to silence notifications, they further decreased usage to about 2 hours daily. These changes led to increased productivity and a greater sense of freedom, allowing the author to engage in more offline activities.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

How to free up space on a Windows PC

Many Windows PC users face storage space issues due to the accumulation of games, photos, movies, and applications. To manage files, users can utilize default folders like Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Videos, or create their own organizational structure. To delete files, navigate to Windows Settings > System > Storage to identify and remove unwanted files. Users can also sort files by size in File Explorer and permanently delete items from the Recycle Bin. Storage Sense is a built-in feature that automatically cleans up temporary files and items in the Recycle Bin when disk space is low. Users can customize its operation frequency. The Cleanup recommendations feature provides tailored suggestions for freeing up storage, including the removal of temporary and large files. Applications can take up significant storage; users can find unused apps in the Cleanup recommendations section or by checking Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Uninstallation can be done through the three dots next to an app or by managing games on platforms like Steam.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

How (and why) to roll back Windows updates on your PC

Windows update KB5043145 caused some users to experience the blue screen of death instead of performance improvements. Before rolling back updates, users should check for adequate hard drive space, restart the system, attempt to reinstall updates, disconnect non-essential hardware, check for conflicts in Device Manager, ensure antivirus software is not interfering, and verify that the Windows Update service is activated. To troubleshoot update issues, Windows 11 users can run the Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings, while Windows 10 users can access it through Update & Security. Users can also utilize system restore points to revert to a previous state, use the Reset Windows Update Tool to repair update components, manually install updates from the Microsoft update catalog, or reset and restart update services via command prompt. If all else fails, reinstalling Windows may be necessary, though it could result in data loss.

Winsage

September 28, 2024

How to set up a senior-friendly Windows computer

Seniors can enhance their experience on a Windows computer by making several adjustments: 1. Customize the display for better visibility: - Adjust the text size: Press Win + I, navigate to Accessibility > Text size, and use the slider to increase text size. - Modify the screen resolution: Open Settings (Win + I), go to System > Display, and select a comfortable display resolution. 2. Simplify navigation: - Pin programs to the taskbar: Pin essential applications to the taskbar or Start menu and disable unnecessary startup programs. 3. Optimize the mouse and keyboard: - Adjust mouse settings by navigating to Bluetooth & devices > Mouse in the Settings app to customize pointer size or color. 4. Adjust the security settings: - Install antivirus software, enable Windows Defender, and regularly review security settings in the Windows Security app.