device encryption Archives

Winsage

April 20, 2026

Windows OS and Microsoft Office app bundle now $104 (Reg. $449)

The Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business bundle, along with Windows 11 Pro, is available for .99, reduced from the regular price of .99. This bundle includes essential applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and features Windows 11 Pro with advanced tools and an AI-driven assistant. The offer represents a discount of over 75% off the manufacturer's suggested retail price.

Winsage

April 19, 2026

14 defaults I think are worth changing: Windows 11 feels modern, but many out‑of‑box settings push services, tracking, and clutter.

Windows 11 has default settings that prioritize background services, cloud integration, and recommendations, which can lead to user frustration. Key issues include: - Diagnostic data collection is enabled by default, requiring users to opt out rather than opt in, with no complete opt-out option available. - Post-setup prompts can disrupt workflow, and users can disable them in Settings > System > Notifications. - The default Taskbar includes features like Widgets and Copilot, which can clutter the interface; users can unpin unwanted icons. - Users are encouraged to sign in with a Microsoft account during setup, but can create a local account instead. - Preinstalled applications may clutter the Start menu, and users can uninstall them through Settings > Apps. - Automatic updates can disrupt user activity, and users can schedule restarts in Settings > Windows Update. - Device encryption is enabled by default, with recovery keys saved to a Microsoft account; users should back up the key offline. - The "Find my device" feature requires ongoing location tracking, which can be disabled in Settings > Privacy & security. - File extensions are hidden by default, which can hinder usability; users can enable them in File Explorer settings. - The redesigned context menu hides advanced options, accessible via Shift + Right-click. - Promotional content is integrated throughout the OS, and while it cannot be fully disabled, users can limit suggestions in settings. - Microsoft Edge can consume system resources upon startup due to background processes, which can be disabled in Edge settings.

Winsage

April 9, 2026

You Can Get Windows 11 Pro on Sale for A$18 Right Now

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for a reduced price of A, down from A8. Key features include Windows Copilot, a redesigned user interface, new productivity tools, remote desktop access, TPM 2.0 support, Smart App Control, biometric login options, BitLocker device encryption, Azure Active Directory integration, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. The minimum system requirements are a processor of at least 1GHz, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of hard disk space. The offer is provided by a trusted Microsoft partner.

Winsage

April 8, 2026

Save 76% with this Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Bundle deal

The Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business + Windows 11 Pro Bundle is priced at 4.99, reduced from 8.99. It includes lifetime access to applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, and is compatible with both PCs and Macs. The bundle features performance enhancements, a modern interface, improved touch and pen support, and productivity features in Windows 11 Pro like snap layouts, virtual desktops, and advanced security options.

Winsage

March 24, 2026

Microsoft Hints at End to Windows 11 Setup Account Requirement

Microsoft is exploring the removal of the requirement to sign in with a Microsoft account during the initial setup of Windows 11, a change that has been frequently requested by users. Currently, Windows 11 Home and most consumer Pro installations require a Microsoft account for setup, although local accounts are available but not easily accessible. This requirement has faced backlash, leading to the development of workarounds by users. Microsoft has defended the necessity of the cloud account for benefits like password recovery and settings synchronization. A potential change could introduce a clearly labeled option for setting up with a local account during the out-of-box experience, while still allowing the option to sign in with a Microsoft account. Windows 11 currently accounts for about one-third of active Windows PCs, trailing behind Windows 10. The proposed changes aim to enhance user satisfaction and address privacy concerns.

Winsage

March 24, 2026

A closer look at the Windows 11 features businesses rely on most

Windows 11 is a foundational platform for businesses, offering integrated productivity tools and compatibility with Microsoft 365, which enhances cybersecurity and IT management. Key security features include the requirement for TPM 2.0, Windows Hello for Business for secure sign-ins, and BitLocker device encryption enabled by default. The integration of Microsoft 365 Copilot allows AI-driven assistance for document creation and data analysis, streamlining workflows across applications like Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. IT management is simplified with tools like Windows Autopilot for zero-touch provisioning and Microsoft Intune for remote device management. Windows 11 also improves performance with features like adaptive energy saver mode and Fast Startup, while plans to enhance user experience include reintroducing the ability to move and resize the Taskbar.

Winsage

March 4, 2026

You Can Get Windows 11 Pro on Sale for A$18 Right Now

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for a reduced price of A, down from A4, until March 8 at 11:59 PM PT. This version includes features such as Windows Copilot, remote desktop access, TPM 2.0, Smart App Control, biometric login support, BitLocker encryption, Azure Active Directory integration, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. The offer is valid for updating a single PC, and the minimum requirements are a processor speed of at least 1GHz, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of hard disk space. No coupon is needed to access this offer.

Winsage

March 2, 2026

Still on Windows 10? That’s a security risk now

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, reduced from its regular price of 9, until March 8 at 11:59 P.M. Pacific. Windows 11 Pro includes enhanced security features such as TPM 2.0 support, BitLocker device encryption, Smart App Control, and Windows Sandbox. It also offers productivity tools like Hyper-V, Azure AD support, Snap layouts, and AI-assisted Copilot integration. Minimum system requirements for the upgrade include a 1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, and DirectX 12 compatible graphics.

Winsage

February 27, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: Make Windows 11 More Secure ⭐

Windows 11 offers a mix of security and privacy features, with a recommendation for users to opt for a Copilot+ PC with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X-series processor for enhanced security. Most users log in with a Microsoft account, which provides benefits such as two-factor authentication, device-bound passkeys, account recovery options, and automatic disk encryption. However, using a local account poses security risks, including limited recovery options and lack of support for key security features. To secure Windows 11, users should take several steps during initial setup or later, including enabling Windows Security features, verifying device encryption, and enhancing sign-in security through Windows Hello options like facial and fingerprint recognition. Additional security features such as Controlled Folder Access and Smart App Control can be configured for better protection. Users are advised to remove unnecessary third-party security apps and keep Windows 11 and installed applications up-to-date to maintain security. Regular updates and proper configuration of Windows Update settings are also essential for preventing disruptions and ensuring data safety.

Winsage

February 19, 2026

14 simple Windows 11 tweaks that instantly boost your privacy

Windows 11 engages in various background activities that may affect user privacy. Users can enhance their privacy by adjusting settings beyond the default configurations. Key modifications include: 1. Disable Device Encryption by navigating to Settings > Privacy & security > Device Encryption and toggling off the switch. 2. Disable Find My Device by going to Settings > Privacy & security > Find my device and turning off the toggle switch. 3. Minimize telemetry by accessing Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostic & feedback and disabling the Send optional diagnostic data and Tailored experiences options. 4. Disable Activity Tracking in Settings > Privacy & security > General by toggling off personalized ads and app tracking options. 5. Disable Location Tracking by going to Settings > Privacy & security > Location and toggling off Location Services. 6. Disable Search Highlights in Settings > Privacy & security > Search by turning off the Show search highlights toggle switch. 7. Disable Cloud Search by navigating to Settings > Privacy & security > Search and turning off Microsoft account and Work or School account toggle switches. 8. Switch to a Local Account by accessing Settings > Accounts > Your Info and selecting Sign in a local account instead. 9. Uninstall OneDrive via Settings > Apps > Installed apps. 10. Uninstall Copilot through Settings > Apps > Installed apps. 11. Uninstall Windows Recall by searching for Turn Windows features on or off and clearing the Recall option. 12. Disable Windows Backup in Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup by turning off Remember my apps and Remember my preferences. 13. Disable Windows Update by launching the Local Group Policy Editor and disabling the Configure Automatic Updates policy. 14. Limit Microsoft Edge Telemetry by accessing Microsoft Edge Settings > Privacy, search, and services and turning off relevant telemetry options. Creating a full backup of the computer before making these changes is recommended.