computing experience Archives

Winsage

May 1, 2025

Hate Windows 11? These 9 free apps make it feel like Windows 10 again

Windows 10 will reach its end of life in 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11, which offers applications to recreate the Windows 10 experience. Transitioning to Windows 11 is possible through an update process if hardware requirements are met, with a temporary backup allowing a revert to Windows 10 within ten days. Applications like Start11 and Startallback enable customization of the Windows 11 interface to resemble Windows 10 or 7. Users can also install themes from the Microsoft Store or online, using Ultra UX Theme Patcher for third-party themes. Windhawk mods further enhance customization options. RevertSV provides an ISO image that mimics Windows 10, mainly for testing in virtual machines.

Winsage

April 27, 2025

5 hidden Windows features I wish I’d been using all along

Windows 11 includes several features that enhance productivity: 1. Clipboard History: Allows users to copy and paste multiple items. To enable, go to Settings -> System -> Clipboard and toggle on Clipboard history and Clipboard history across devices. 2. Scroll Inactive Windows: Enables scrolling through inactive windows by hovering over them. To activate, go to Settings -> Bluetooth & devices -> Mouse and toggle on "Scroll inactive windows when hovering over them." 3. Ctrl+Shift+Enter in Run Dialog Box: Launches applications with administrative privileges using the Ctrl+Shift+Enter shortcut in the Run dialog box. 4. Enable Enhanced Search: Expands search capabilities to include the entire drive. To enable, go to Settings -> Privacy & security -> Searching Windows and select the Enhanced option. 5. Enable God Mode: Provides access to numerous system settings in one location. To activate, create a new folder and rename it to a specific string that grants access to these settings.

Winsage

April 26, 2025

Complete your PC setup with Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro for one low price

Microsoft is offering a bundle that includes Microsoft Office Professional 2021 and a Windows 11 Pro license for .97, significantly discounted from the regular price of 9.99. This offer is available for one more day. The Office 2021 suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Windows 11 Pro features enhanced productivity tools such as Snap layouts, multiple virtual desktops, improved voice typing, and an AI-powered Copilot virtual assistant. The bundle is intended for PCs that require a new license and will not work on systems that cannot access Windows Update for Windows 11. The offer expires tomorrow at 11:59 p.m. PT, and stock is limited.

Winsage

April 24, 2025

7 things I learned while making the perfect, productivity-focused desktop environment on Windows

Windows 11 has challenges for users seeking a productivity-centric desktop experience, prompting many to seek alternatives and customization utilities. Key elements for enhancing productivity include effective file management, quick access to applications, and tools to streamline workflow. For file management, users can benefit from dual-pane file manager alternatives like XYplorer, File Pilot, Files, and Total Commander, which improve efficiency beyond the default File Explorer. Customizing the Start Menu by relocating it to the left and using tools like StartAllBack, Start11, and Windhawk can enhance productivity. Pinning frequently used apps to the taskbar allows for quick access and utilizes jump lists for recent documents. Disabling the News & Interests widget can reduce distractions, and many users choose to remove Microsoft's Copilot due to unmet expectations. For desktop customization, tools like StartAllBack, Windhawk, Rainmeter, and PowerToys can improve both appearance and functionality. PowerToys offers over 20 utilities, including FancyZones for window management and PowerToys Run for quick application access, making it essential for optimizing workflow. Overall, effective file management, application accessibility, and thoughtful customization are crucial for enhancing productivity on Windows 11.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

Windows 10 support is ending — switch to 11 Pro for just $15

A Microsoft Windows 11 Pro license is currently available for .97, reduced from its regular price of 9, until April 27. Microsoft is phasing out support for Windows 10, which will soon lack security updates and app support. Windows 11 Pro features improved voice typing, snap layouts for multitasking, hassle-free redocking, a powerful search experience, and a streamlined interface. It includes an AI assistant called Copilot, powered by OpenAI, and offers advanced security features such as biometric login, device encryption, and built-in antivirus tools.

Winsage

April 16, 2025

I disabled these 5 Windows services to improve my PC performance

Windows operating systems have numerous background services that can consume system resources and slow down performance. Users can improve responsiveness by disabling non-essential services. 1. Windows Search: Indexes files and data for quick searches; can tax CPU and RAM. To disable: press Ctrl + R, type services.msc, locate Windows Search, stop the service, and set Startup type to Disabled or Manual. 2. SysMain (formerly Superfetch): Preloads frequently used applications into memory but can lead to unnecessary disk activity on SSDs. To disable: access services.msc, find SysMain, stop the service, and set Startup Type to Disabled. 3. Windows Update Delivery Optimization: Shares update files with other PCs, consuming bandwidth. To disable: go to Settings -> Windows Update -> Advanced Options and turn it off. 4. Remote Desktop Services: Enables remote connections, which can drain resources and pose security risks. To disable: locate Remote Desktop Services in services.msc, stop it, and set Startup type to Disabled. 5. Connected User Experiences and Telemetry: Collects usage data and can transmit sensitive information. To disable: turn off the service and navigate to Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Diagnostics & Feedback to disable Diagnostic data. Additional services that may be disabled include Print Spooler, Fax, Bluetooth Support, and Windows Error Reporting Service for further performance optimization.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

5 Windows settings I should have disabled a long time ago (and how I did it)

- Disabling background apps can save system resources and improve performance. This can be managed through Settings -> Apps -> Installed apps or the Task Manager. - Hibernate mode may consume significant disk space and is not necessary for daily use; Sleep mode is sufficient for most users. Hibernate can be disabled using the command powercfg /h off or through Control Panel -> Power Options. - Telemetry and diagnostic data collection can be disabled in Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Diagnostics & Feedback, and previously collected data can be deleted to reclaim storage space. - Notifications, tips, and suggestions can be turned off in Settings > System > Notifications to reduce distractions. - The lock screen can be disabled to save resources; Windows 11 Pro users can use the Local Group Policy Editor, while Home users can modify the registry by creating a Notlockscreen DWORD value in the WindowsPersonalization key.

Winsage

April 13, 2025

Microsoft is digging its own grave with Windows 11, and it has to stop

Microsoft is actively encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11 through advertisements and reminders, which raises sustainability concerns. The upgrade requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip, and while upgrading without it is technically possible, it is not recommended. The end of life for Windows 10 may lead to increased e-waste as many devices could be discarded. Users desire a stable, continuously updated operating system without disruptive upgrades, similar to macOS. A 2021 Kaspersky report indicated that 73% of healthcare providers globally still use outdated operating systems for critical medical equipment, highlighting financial constraints that hinder upgrades. Users are frustrated with the increasing presence of ads and notifications in Windows, feeling that Windows 11 operates more like a service they pay for but do not fully own. The dissatisfaction extends to Windows 10 users, who anticipate the end of life for the OS as a way to regain control over their digital experience.

Winsage

April 13, 2025

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for less than a movie ticket

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is currently available for upgrade at a price of .97, reduced from its standard price of 9. The operating system features a modern interface, Snap Layouts, Virtual Desktops, a revamped Start menu, BitLocker encryption, Windows Information Protection, an AI-driven assistant called Windows Copilot, and DirectX 12 Ultimate for enhanced graphics. This limited-time offer is valid until April 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Windows 365 Link Cloud PC now available for $349.99

Microsoft has launched the Windows 365 Link, its first cloud PC, available for purchase in the U.S. at a price of .99. The device features an Intel N250 processor, 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and 64GB of UFS storage. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-A 3.2 Gen1, USB-A 3.2 Gen2, USB-C 3.2, Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, and DisplayPort 1.4. It measures 120 x 120 x 30mm. The device requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance, and its hardware specifications may not meet the demands of intensive tasks. In comparison, Apple's Mac Mini, priced at 9, features an M2 chip, 8GB of unified memory, and 256GB of SSD storage. Microsoft claims that Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop can save employees 6 to 12 minutes daily and organizations between .1M and .2M over three years through BYOPC programs. The Windows 365 Link is aimed at businesses integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem, offering a cost-effective solution for cloud-managed workstations.