desktop environment Archives

Winsage

June 9, 2026

Microsoft is Finally Letting You Move the Windows 11 Taskbar

Windows 11 introduces taskbar customization features that allow users to reposition the taskbar to any edge of the screen (top, bottom, left, or right) and resize it for improved workflow and adaptability. These features are currently available in Windows 11 Insider experimental builds. The Start menu and pinned icons automatically adjust to align with the new taskbar position. Users can enable smaller taskbar buttons to maximize screen space, which is particularly useful for compact devices. The taskbar can also be set to minimize at all times, only when full, or never. These updates aim to optimize screen space and enhance accessibility and personalization for diverse workflows and screen configurations.

Tech Optimizer

June 8, 2026

What Is OneLaunch.exe? Pros, Cons, and How to Remove It

OneLaunch is a software application that creates a personalized dock and desktop environment on Windows computers, often pre-installed or bundled with other software. It has received mixed reviews, with concerns about system slowdowns and its legitimacy. OneLaunch.exe is a background process supporting the OneLaunch application, which provides quick access to applications and updates but can consume system resources. The OneLaunch browser, installed alongside the main application, can alter browser settings and redirect searches, potentially leading to unwanted advertisements. While OneLaunch is not classified as traditional malware, it is often categorized as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) due to its bundled installation and ability to modify system settings. It can monitor browsing habits and share data with third-party advertisers. Users report intrusive behavior, such as altering default browser settings, and it can negatively impact system performance. To remove OneLaunch, users should end the running process, uninstall the application, delete leftover folders, remove startup entries, and reset browser settings. OneLaunch may reappear due to accidental reinstallations, active browser extensions, lingering scheduled tasks, or hidden companion programs. Preventative measures include downloading from official sources, reading installation screens carefully, keeping systems updated, and performing regular system checks.

Winsage

June 4, 2026

Use Windows Sandbox and containers to test untrusted apps safely

Windows 11 features Smart App Control to block untrusted applications and includes Windows Sandbox, a lightweight virtual machine that provides an isolated desktop environment for safely executing applications. Windows Sandbox uses container technology and hypervisor-based virtualization to mitigate risks associated with untrusted software. It ensures that each session starts fresh, with no data persisting after closing, and applications installed on the host system are not accessible within the Sandbox. Starting with Windows 11 version 22H2, data can persist through restarts initiated within the Sandbox. Windows Sandbox is included in supported Windows editions such as Pro, Enterprise, and Education, and offers quick launch times, a lower memory footprint, and a secure environment for testing untrusted software. Setting up Windows Sandbox involves searching for it in the Start menu, running it as an administrator, and transferring executable files for installation within the Sandbox.

Winsage

June 3, 2026

Perplexity’s Personal Computer for Windows Now Coming to Users

Perplexity has launched Personal Computer for Windows, a desktop software that streamlines user interactions with files, applications, and online resources through a unified interface. It operates natively on Windows, allowing users to manage tasks directly from their machines. The software integrates with Microsoft applications such as Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and OneDrive, enabling users to execute tasks without manual data transfer. Users can approve specific local folders for the AI to access, ensuring control over information. The platform supports remote execution from other devices and features Voice Mode for natural language interaction. Personal Computer utilizes over 20 AI models to facilitate complex tasks and includes security features like folder scoping, user permissions, activity logs, and administrative controls for enterprise clients. Access is initially available to paying Max and Enterprise Max subscribers on the waitlist.

Winsage

June 2, 2026

Windows 8 is now 15 years old. Here’s where it’s still being used

Microsoft launched Windows 8 on June 1st, 2011, which faced backlash for its touch-centric design. The initial working title was "modern," leading to confusion with new components labeled "Mo." In response to criticism, Microsoft released Windows 8.1 a year later, reintroducing the classic desktop environment while retaining some contentious design choices. Windows 8 was officially discontinued in January 2016, but it continues to be used in various sectors, including hospitals, supermarket checkouts, gas stations, industry machinery, and government agencies. Some private users still prefer Windows 8 or 8.1, despite initial dissatisfaction. Government agencies often use proprietary firewalls to mitigate security risks associated with outdated software, and users are advised not to connect Windows 8 systems to the internet.

Winsage

June 2, 2026

COSMIC Desktop’s Frosted Glass Is Giving Windows Aero Vibes

The COSMIC desktop environment, built on Rust and Wayland, is introducing a "Frosted Glass" appearance reminiscent of Windows Aero. System76 CEO Carl Richell announced that the feature is nearing completion and aims to balance aesthetics and functionality, allowing users to adjust the effect's prominence or disable it. Development screenshots have been shared, and the Frosted Glass effect will be integrated into the COSMIC compositor and libcosmic toolkit, with an expected release in the near future.

Winsage

May 31, 2026

Microsoft U-turns on ‘infuriating’ Copilot update

Microsoft introduced a floating button for its Copilot assistant in the bottom-right corner of Office applications to enhance accessibility. However, this change faced backlash from users, leading Microsoft to revert the button to its original location in the ribbon at the top of the screen. Users can now choose from three options regarding the Copilot button: keep the floating button, dock it to the side, or return it to the ribbon. Microsoft noted that only about 3.3% of Microsoft 365 users currently pay for Copilot and is recalibrating its approach to integrating AI across its platforms. The company remains committed to introducing AI agents to the Windows taskbar as an optional feature, which will answer questions, automate tasks, interact with files and applications, and act on behalf of the user.

Winsage

May 28, 2026

Windows Pro 11 is powerful, secure and just $9.97 right now

A lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, which is 94% off the regular price of 9. This version features a modern interface, enhanced multitasking capabilities, improved security measures, and includes Microsoft Copilot for productivity assistance. The offer includes future updates with no recurring fees. Windows 11 Pro is compatible with computers that meet the minimum installation requirements.

Winsage

May 20, 2026

Linux Vs. Windows: Which Is Better For Your PC?

Recent trends show growing discontent among Windows users due to instability from updates, leading Microsoft to allow users to pause updates. Approximately half a million users have migrated from Windows to alternatives. Windows, dominant since 1985, offers unmatched software and hardware support, making it reliable for professionals, especially in work, editing, and gaming, provided hardware specifications are met. Windows Defender contributes to its security, maintaining its global leadership despite update issues. Compatibility is a key advantage, as Linux systems with NVIDIA hardware often face stability challenges. Linux is gaining popularity due to the absence of subscriptions and advertisements, and user-friendly distributions like KDE and GNOME have made it more accessible. Distributions such as CachyOS, Bazzite, and Mint cater to different user needs, while advanced options like Gentoo and innovative environments like Hyprland appeal to technically inclined users. However, application support on Linux can still be problematic, although tools like Wine and Proton have improved compatibility for many applications.

Winsage

May 12, 2026

Hackers Can Hide Malware Inside Images to Hack Windows

Researchers at Cyfirma have identified a cyberattack campaign named Operation SilentCanvas that targets Windows systems using deceptive JPEG files to infiltrate devices. The attack begins with victims receiving a file named sysupdate.jpeg, which contains a PowerShell script instead of an image. This script establishes staging environments and downloads additional malicious components while avoiding detection. The malware reconstructs command strings at runtime and downloads a secondary payload called access.jpeg, executed in memory. It exploits Microsoft's .NET compiler to create a custom launcher named uds.exe on infected machines. The malware takes control of a registry key to create a hidden desktop environment for undetected execution of malicious tools and installs a persistent Windows service, OneDriveServers, to maintain activity after reboots. Additionally, it can intercept usernames and passwords at the Windows login screen and create hidden local administrator accounts for long-term access. Security teams are advised to monitor the execution of commonly abused Windows binaries like csc.exe and ComputerDefaults.exe to mitigate risks.