essential applications Archives

Tech Optimizer

February 24, 2026

Exit Windows S Mode Easily

Windows S Mode is a restricted version of Windows designed for entry-level devices, allowing only apps from the Microsoft Store to enhance security and performance. Users may find it limiting if they need software not available in the Store, such as gaming platforms or professional tools. Exiting S Mode is done through the Microsoft Store by searching for "Switch out of S Mode," clicking "Get" or "Install," confirming the switch, and waiting for the process to complete. This change is permanent, and users cannot revert back without a full reset or reinstallation of Windows. Important considerations before switching include ensuring a stable internet connection, checking the Windows edition, backing up data, and understanding the security risks involved. Common issues during the process include the missing option to switch and installation failures, which can often be resolved by restarting the PC or checking the internet connection. After leaving S Mode, users can install applications from outside the Microsoft Store but must be cautious about security.

Winsage

February 21, 2026

If you’re still debloating Windows manually, this one tool does it better

Windows has a nearly 70% global market share as the dominant desktop operating system, but users often complain about bloatware. Windows Utility by Chris Titus is a tool that simplifies the debloating process through a single command in Windows PowerShell, offering a graphical user interface for tasks like debloating, disabling telemetry, uninstalling preinstalled applications, and managing services. It enhances performance by enabling high-performance power plans and optimizing Windows Update behavior. The utility includes O&O's ShutUp10++ for managing data collection practices and allows users to save customized settings for future installations. It features a built-in package installer that supports Chocolatey and WinGet, enabling bulk installations of applications.

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Contain your Windows apps inside Linux Windows

WinApps and WinBoat are two solutions for running Windows applications on Linux. WinApps, developed since 2020 by Ben Curtis, allows users to run a genuine copy of Windows in a virtual machine (VM) and export individual applications to the Linux desktop using Microsoft's Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). It supports various methods, including Docker, Podman, and KVM virtualization, with KVM offering extensive customization but requiring a more complex setup. WinBoat, a newer application at version 0.9.0, simplifies the user experience by automating much of the setup process and requires only Docker and FreeRDP to be installed. WinBoat is designed for ease of use, making it accessible for users less comfortable with technical configurations. Both tools allow users to run Windows software that may not work well under WINE, but running a full Windows OS in a VM involves licensing, maintenance, and resource considerations.

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Windows User Switches to Linux, Misses Windows Hello

The author transitioned from Windows to Linux for daily workflows, finding that most essential tools adapted well. Linux distributions can easily detect hardware on modern x86 laptops, and community projects enhance compatibility for devices like Microsoft’s Surface. Software integration was smooth, with applications like Microsoft Edge and 1Password functioning without issues. However, the author misses Windows Hello's biometric sign-in, which lacks a universal equivalent in Linux. Community solutions exist but often require technical adjustments. Linux desktops provide a polished experience, but challenges remain, such as webcam functionality and sleep/resume issues. Selecting compatible hardware is crucial for a successful transition, and Linux holds about 4% of the desktop market share globally.

Winsage

February 14, 2026

Skip the new laptop and modernize your PC instead with Windows 11 Pro for $12.97

Microsoft is offering an upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for .97, down from its regular price of 9. This limited-time promotion enhances system performance with features like an intuitive interface, improved search capabilities, and tools such as snap layouts and voice typing. Windows 11 Pro includes essential applications like Microsoft Teams and Azure HD, supports advanced gaming through DirectX 12 Ultimate, and incorporates Copilot as a personal assistant. It also prioritizes security with features like biometric logins, encrypted authentication, and enhanced antivirus protection. The promotional pricing ends on March 22.

Winsage

February 13, 2026

Make life a little easier with these 8 Microsoft essentials for just $35

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is available for .97 until February 22, offering a lifetime license for essential applications without subscription fees. The suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Teams, Access, and Publisher. Users must ensure their PC runs Windows 10 or 11 for compatibility.

Winsage

February 1, 2026

5 Essential Free Apps That Aren’t Available On The Microsoft Store

The Microsoft Store has recently added applications like VLC, Foobar2000, Firefox, and Brave, but several essential applications are still missing, leading users to download installers from developers' websites. Microsoft has discontinued support for Office installations via the store, and the transition to allowing Win32 app formats has introduced more applications, although many developers may find this shift too late, with full support for Win32 apps not expected until 2025. Notable applications currently unavailable on the Microsoft Store include: - Steam: A critical gaming platform with over 140 million users, absent from the store due to Valve's competition with Microsoft. - Notepad++: A popular text and code editor known for its simplicity and versatility, requiring direct download from its official website. - Calibre: An open-source e-book manager that allows users to organize, convert, and enrich e-books, also needing to be downloaded from its official site. - qBittorrent: A free and open-source torrent client offering a clean interface and extensive features, available only through direct download from its official website. - Paint.net: While available on the Microsoft Store for a fee, it can be downloaded for free from the developer's website, providing robust image editing features.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Refresh your computer for $20 with these Microsoft apps

Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows is priced at .97, significantly reduced from the regular price of 9. This suite includes seven applications: Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel, OneNote, Access, and Publisher. It features redesigned applications with enhanced functionalities, including advanced Excel analysis and updated tools in PowerPoint and Outlook. Users receive instant delivery and download upon purchase, and the license allows for offline use. Complimentary customer service is also available.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Windows 11’s growth has officially hit a brick wall — and users appear to be fleeing back to Windows 10

Windows 11's global desktop market share declined from 55.18% in October 2025 to 50.73% by December 2025. The operating system faced technical issues, including a problematic Patch Tuesday that affected users' ability to run applications and shut down devices. Microsoft's decision to allow the FBI access to BitLocker encryption keys has eroded user trust. Additionally, increasing advertisements and a push towards AI integration have led to dissatisfaction among users. Complaints about Windows 11 have spread from niche forums to mainstream channels, with critics noting a disconnect between new hardware capabilities and the operating system's performance.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Microsoft issues SECOND emergency out of band update for Windows 11 to address disastrous Patch Tuesday bugs

Microsoft's January 2026 Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11 have caused significant user frustration, leading to two emergency out-of-band updates within a week to address critical issues. The latest emergency update, KB5078127, was released to fix problems that made applications like Outlook, OneDrive, and Dropbox inoperable after the January 13 updates. Initially, users were advised to uninstall the updates as a temporary fix. The first emergency update on January 17 aimed to resolve shutdown and hibernation failures for version 23H2 and issues with Remote Desktop sign-in, but it inadvertently caused further disruptions to essential applications. The Windows release health dashboard remains a key resource for users seeking updates on ongoing issues.