file synchronization Archives

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Nextcloud cries foul over Google Play Store app rejection

Nextcloud, a European software vendor, has raised concerns about Google's treatment of its Android Files application, which has over 800,000 users. The issue centers on the "All files access" permission, which was revoked by the Play Store in 2024, impairing the app's functionality. Nextcloud argues that alternatives like the Storage Access Framework (SAF) and MediaStore API are inadequate for their needs. The app has been able to read and write all file types since its launch in 2016 without security concerns from Google until the recent revocation. Nextcloud claims that Google's policies are stifling competition and that they have faced bureaucratic inefficiencies in addressing their complaints. Despite having a fully functional version on F-Droid, the Google Play version is restricted. Nextcloud has previously lodged a complaint with the EU regarding Microsoft's anti-competitive behavior, and they express frustration over the lack of action taken. They believe larger tech companies are trying to suppress smaller competitors.

Winsage

May 12, 2025

Do these five important things after installing Windows 11

- After setting up Windows 11, it is recommended to back up your BitLocker key to prevent access issues, as drives are encrypted by default without user notification. - To back up the BitLocker key, sign in to your Microsoft Account, navigate to the "Devices" tab, and manage recovery keys. - Context menus in Windows 11 can be cleaned up by uninstalling unnecessary applications or modifying the system registry to remove unwanted entries. - The "End Task" feature can be enabled by navigating to Settings > System > For developers and toggling on the feature. - To reduce notifications and ads, users can disable various settings in the Personalization and Privacy & Security sections of the Settings app. - OneDrive auto-backup is enabled by default, and users can disable it by accessing OneDrive settings and turning off backup options.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

These 7 WSL programs changed how I use Windows

Windows users previously faced challenges using Linux tools via virtual machines until the introduction of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which was further improved with WSL2. WSL2 integrates a lightweight virtual machine into Windows, allowing users to run Linux applications seamlessly. Runtipi and CasaOS can be easily set up on WSL2 to host self-service applications without complex configurations. Visual Studio Code (VS Code) offers a WSL extension that enables code execution directly in Linux distributions from Windows, enhancing the coding experience. Gigolo is a frontend for managing network shares, which can also be integrated into Windows 11 through WSL2. Ansible can automate the provisioning of virtual machines and containers on WSL2, making it easier for users engaged in DIY projects. Rsync can be installed via WSL2 for efficient file synchronization and backups on Windows. Podman Desktop allows Windows users to explore container runtimes using WSL2, providing a GUI for managing containers. Lastly, WSL2 enables users to access the Linux terminal and run various Linux distributions directly within Windows 11.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

For the Price of a Good Burger, You Can Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro and Unlock Microsoft’s Copilot AI

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, a 92% discount from the standard price of approximately 9. It features a refreshed user interface for multitasking, enhanced security, a Universal Search tool on the taskbar, the ability to create multiple custom desktops, and integration with OneDrive for file synchronization across devices. It also includes productivity shortcuts like Win + V for clipboard history and the Copilot AI tool to streamline tasks.

Winsage

March 15, 2025

How to create an online drive on your Windows PC

Many PC users face issues with limited storage space and malware threats to local files. A solution is to create an online drive, such as Google Drive or OneDrive, which protects files and allows access from anywhere. To create an online drive using Google Drive: 1. Open a web browser and search for "Google Drive for Desktop" or "OneDrive for Desktop." 2. Click on the first official link to go to the download page. 3. Download the "Download For Windows" version of the chosen cloud service. 4. Install the downloaded software on your PC. 5. Launch the Drive app, sign in, and select folders to sync, then complete the setup. To access synced files on a Windows PC: 1. Open File Explorer. 2. Click on "This PC" and select "Google Drive" to access the files.

Winsage

December 17, 2024

5 Docker containers you should be using on your Windows 11 PC

Linux distributions are effective for self-hosting and containerization, allowing users to run containers on Windows 11 after setting up WSL2 and Docker Desktop. Notable self-hosted services include: - Penpot: A free, SVG-based design tool that offers vector image editing and prototyping capabilities, supporting SVG, CSS, and HTML. - Nextcloud: A self-hosted cloud storage solution that ensures data privacy and offers features like file synchronization, mobile apps, and collaboration tools. - Joplin: A note-taking application with markdown support and tagging, allowing users to self-host their own server for syncing notes without privacy concerns. - LibreOffice: A free alternative to Microsoft Office that supports various file formats and can be containerized for optimal performance. - Linux Distros: Users can run full Linux operating systems in lightweight containers, with popular options including Ubuntu and Alpine Linux, and even macOS in Docker containers. Additional Docker images for enhancing home networks and workflows include WireGuard, NetAlertX, Pi-Hole, Immich, Calibre-web, Jellyfin, Gitea, Code Server, and Nginx.

AppWizard

December 13, 2024

Microsoft warns that Android 15 will make Windows Phone Link worse

Windows Phone Link in Windows 11 will face challenges due to the Android 15 update, which introduces a protocol that redacts sensitive notifications from "untrusted" notification listeners. Microsoft has informed users that certain notifications, including two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, will no longer be accessible through Phone Link. Devices pre-installed with Link To Windows can still sync sensitive notifications if configured correctly, while users of devices without Phone Link, such as Google Pixel, Sony Xperia, or Nothing Phone, will lose access to these notifications after upgrading to Android 15. Phone Link allows users to access phone notifications, applications, messages, and calls on their computer and has features like using the phone's camera as a webcam and file synchronization. The changes from Android 15 may reduce its utility for many users.

Winsage

November 25, 2024

Windows 11: Microsoft is finally adding an option to turn off one of the most annoying things

Users of Windows 11 have expressed frustration with the "start backup" option in File Explorer, which prompts backing up files to OneDrive. For those not using OneDrive, this reminder can be annoying. Uninstalling OneDrive removes the prompt, but many users are linked to it through their Microsoft accounts. A recent beta build has introduced a feature allowing users to disable backup reminders in File Explorer. Users can choose to temporarily hide the prompt for one month or permanently turn it off. Once disabled, the prompt is replaced with a generic PC icon, although a small popup still informs users that the backup reminder is off and provides instructions for re-enabling it through OneDrive settings. This feature is disabled by default, and users can enable it by downloading ViVeTool, running a command in the command prompt, and restarting their PC.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

How to prepare for Windows 10 end of support by moving to Windows 11 today

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11. Key points include the advantages of upgrading, eligibility assessment for current PCs, resources for acquiring new PCs, and details on Extended Security Updates (ESU). Windows 11 features enhanced security with a 62% reduction in security incidents, improved performance, multitasking tools, accessibility enhancements, energy efficiency, and AI integration. The operating system includes hardware-based protections and advanced authentication methods, such as the Microsoft Pluton Security Processor and Smart App Control. Users can check their upgrade eligibility through Windows Update and may need a new PC for full benefits. Microsoft offers resources for data transfer and synchronization. The ESU program will provide critical security updates for those needing more time to transition. Windows 11 is designed to support organizations, promising a 250% return on investment and improved device management.

AppWizard

October 23, 2024

Syncthing’s Android App is Going Away, Google Play Store Policies is One of the Reasons to Blame

The maintainer of Syncthing, Simon Frei, announced that the Syncthing Android app will no longer receive updates after December 2024 due to a lack of contributions and complications with Google's publishing policies. The app was previously removed from the Play Store, and ongoing issues with release submissions have led to a decision to cease maintenance. Users can still download the latest version from F-Droid or consider alternatives like the Syncthing-Fork app, FreeFileSync, Rsync, or LocalSend for file synchronization.