computer Archives

Winsage

January 19, 2026

I always make these 9 tweaks in Windows Terminal for a more readable and consistent experience on Windows 11 — and they’re for more than just aesthetics

Windows Terminal serves as a unified shell for various command-line tools, including PowerShell, Command Prompt, and WSL. Users can enhance their experience by customizing settings, which improves readability and consistency across devices. To back up Windows Terminal settings, users can export configurations to a JSON file by accessing the Settings option, opening the JSON file, saving it as backup-settings.json, and selecting a save location. To restore settings, users must locate the backup file, edit it in Notepad, copy the content, and replace the existing configuration in Windows Terminal before saving the changes. Additionally, users can set a different default shell in Windows Terminal.

Winsage

January 17, 2026

Microsoft confirms strange Windows 11 update bug affecting Outlook POP accounts

The KB5074109 update for Windows 11, released on January 13, 2026, has caused Outlook to freeze and hang for users with POP account profiles, preventing the application from exiting properly. Microsoft is currently investigating this emerging issue, which has not yet been listed in the Known Issues section of the update's release notes. A temporary workaround suggested involves uninstalling the KB5074109 update, though this may expose systems to security vulnerabilities.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

Speed Up Your Windows 11 Launch Time in a Snap. Here’s How to Do It

The delay in booting up a Windows 11 laptop can be caused by multiple applications that automatically launch at startup, which can hinder system performance. Common applications that may launch include antivirus programs, Microsoft OneDrive, Slack, gaming applications, backup tools, and webcam software. Users can manage these startup applications through three methods: Task Manager, Settings, or File Explorer. In Task Manager, users can view and disable startup applications by right-clicking on entries in the Startup apps menu. The impact of each application on startup time is categorized as high, medium, low, none, or not measured. In the Settings app, users can navigate to Apps and then Startup to toggle off applications they do not want to launch automatically. File Explorer can also be used to manage startup applications by accessing the shell:appsfolder and shell:startup or shell:common startup commands to view and modify the applications set to launch at sign-in. Users are advised to disable applications they rarely use while keeping essential security software enabled. Third-party startup managers like Autoruns and Startup Delayer can provide additional insights into startup applications. Similar management methods apply to previous Windows versions.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

How to remove Copilot from Windows 11

Microsoft has introduced Copilot on Windows 11, which has generated mixed reactions from users. Many users express a preference for operating without it, and the difficulty of uninstalling Copilot, which often reinstalls itself, has contributed to dissatisfaction. Microsoft is working on a solution for permanent removal in future updates. A guide has been created to assist users in removing Copilot, which includes three steps: 1. Preventing auto startup by disabling it in Task Manager. 2. Preventing auto installation by modifying the Registry Editor to create a DWORD value named TurnOffWindowsCopilot and setting it to 1. 3. Uninstalling Copilot through the Settings app. Following these steps allows users to effectively remove Copilot from their systems.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

This distro makes it easy to switch from Windows to Linux

VailuxOS is a Linux distribution built on a Debian foundation, featuring a user-friendly interface with the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It resembles Windows 11 in layout and includes a Computer icon for easy access to the Home directory. The installation process is straightforward, and it has a minimalist approach to preinstalled applications, allowing customization through the KDE Discover software center with Flatpak support. VailuxOS offers a graphical interface for setting up shared folders via Samba. A minor issue during setup involved a default German keyboard layout that affected password entry, which was resolved by switching to US English. Performance tests showed that VailuxOS can handle tasks like running the llama3.2r language model efficiently, demonstrating its capability for programming tasks.

Winsage

January 14, 2026

Windows 2000 rusts in peace by the sea

A ticket machine at Comboios de Portugal is malfunctioning, running on Windows 2000, which has caused the system to freeze and made card payments unavailable. The issue appears to be related to the software rather than hardware failures. Despite the machine's wear and tear, there is currently no Blue Screen of Death. The situation highlights a decline in rail travel in Portugal as travelers increasingly prefer express bus services.

Winsage

January 14, 2026

How much RAM does your PC really need in 2026? A Windows and Mac expert’s verdict

Shopping for a new computer involves focusing on three critical components: the processor, storage drive, and RAM. For Windows machines, 16GB of RAM is the operational minimum for new consumer laptops, while 4GB is the minimum requirement for Windows 11. MacBook users can find satisfactory performance with 8GB of RAM, but Apple has set 16GB as the starting point for its new MacBook Air M4. Chromebooks can operate effectively with 8GB or less. More RAM generally improves performance, but excessive memory can lead to diminishing returns. DDR stands for "double data rate," with DDR5 being the latest standard for faster data transfer speeds. Most users find 16GB adequate, while gamers and creative professionals may need 32GB. Beyond 32GB is typically excessive unless engaged in demanding activities, where 48GB or 64GB may be warranted.

Tech Optimizer

January 13, 2026

Trusted Antivirus Protection for PCs

Your PC requires robust antivirus protection due to its diverse usage, and Windows 11 offers built-in protections that operate seamlessly. Antivirus software, such as Microsoft Defender in Windows 11, protects against threats like viruses, malware, phishing websites, and suspicious email attachments. However, it cannot fully defend against social engineering scams, new ransomware, zero-day vulnerabilities, or risky online behaviors. Microsoft Defender provides automatic threat scanning, works with the Windows firewall, utilizes cloud intelligence, alerts users to unsafe content, and offers ransomware protection. To enhance security, users should keep software updated, use strong passwords, secure their Wi-Fi, enable firewalls, and back up files regularly.

Winsage

January 13, 2026

Give your old PC a fresh start with this Microsoft bundle

The Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows and Windows 11 Pro Bundle is available for .97, reduced from 8.99, resulting in savings of 9.02. The bundle includes a lifetime license for Microsoft Office Professional 2021, which features eight tools such as Word, Excel, Teams, OneNote, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, and Access. It also includes Windows 11 Pro, which offers an intuitive interface, snap layouts, enhanced search capabilities, and cybersecurity features like biometric logins and antivirus protection.

Winsage

January 9, 2026

Is turning off Windows Security a bad idea in 2026? A PC expert’s bottom line

Windows Security is a comprehensive security suite for Windows users that monitors downloads, blocks threats, and quarantines malware. Users may need to disable it temporarily to install third-party software or games that are mistakenly flagged as threats. Permanent deactivation is typically for advanced users who may replace it with another security suite, but it increases vulnerability to online threats. To temporarily disable Windows Security, users can toggle off Real-time protection in the Windows Security app. For permanent deactivation, Windows 11 Pro users can use the Local Group Policy Editor, while Home users must edit the Registry. Creating a restore point before making changes is recommended for safety. Disabling Windows Security, even temporarily, should be done with caution to avoid increased risk of infections.