file transfers Archives

Winsage

April 6, 2025

5 best dual-pane file managers for Windows power users

The default Windows File Explorer lacks multi-pane support, making file management cumbersome for users who frequently transfer files between folders or manage multiple drives. Dual-pane or multi-pane third-party file managers offer solutions by allowing users to view and manage multiple folders side by side within a single window. Total Commander is a veteran dual-pane file manager with built-in FTP support, fast file transfers, and comprehensive archive handling. Directory Opus is a premium file management solution with a dual-pane layout, tabbed navigation, and features like batch file operations and scripting capabilities. FreeCommander XE is a free dual-pane file manager that offers essential features such as tabbed browsing and folder synchronization. XYplorer is a portable dual-pane file manager designed for speed, featuring tabbed browsing and powerful search functions. Q-Dir, or Quad-Directory Explorer, allows for up to four panes in a single window and supports drag-and-drop functionality and color filters.

AppWizard

April 4, 2025

Intel Unison, a powerful free app bridging Android phones and PCs, is shutting down

Intel Unison will cease operations on June 30, 2025. The app has been recognized for transforming Android tablets into external displays and allowing users to make calls, send texts, and transfer files from Windows PCs. While some features can be replicated with Microsoft Phone Link, many users prefer Intel Unison for its comprehensive experience. Lenovo Aura platforms will continue to support Intel Unison until the end of 2025. The app requires Windows 11 machines with at least version 22H2 and a minimum of a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, but it is also compatible with non-Intel machines. Certain Intel Evo 13th-generation and later devices came pre-installed with Intel Unison. Users will need to switch to Microsoft Phone Link for connectivity between Android devices and Windows PCs after the discontinuation.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Is it time to ditch Windows File Explorer? 6 signs you’ve outgrown it

Windows File Explorer is the default file management tool for Windows but often disappoints power users due to several limitations. The search function is slow, taking several minutes for results, especially in large folders or external drives, and requires careful configuration of indexing settings. Customization options are limited, lacking advanced features like split views or custom color labels, while third-party tools offer extensive customization. File Explorer's reliance on traditional folder structures is outdated, missing features like tagging or smart folders, which are crucial for professionals in creative fields. File transfers can be frustrating, with stalls and unpredictable speeds, whereas alternatives like TeraCopy provide faster and more reliable transfers. Filtering and sorting options are basic and insufficient for managing large collections, lacking advanced capabilities found in third-party explorers. Additionally, the absence of dual-pane navigation hinders efficiency, despite recent updates introducing tab functionality.

Tech Optimizer

March 14, 2025

Best Antivirus for Mac for 2025

Bitdefender Ultimate Security for MacOS achieved a 100% detection rate for threats in AV-Test conducted in December 2024. It operates with minimal resource consumption, with slight slowdowns during software installations similar to other third-party antivirus tools. The software protects against malware, including ransomware and phishing attacks, and includes AI-powered anti-scam features. The Ultimate Security package offers tools beyond MacOS's built-in XProtect, including a VPN, adblocker with anti-tracking, and a password manager. It provides identity protection by monitoring data leaks and alerts users if their information appears on the Dark Web, covering up to five devices across MacOS, iOS, Windows, and Android. Higher-tier packages for US residents offer identity theft and financial fraud protection, with coverage up to million. The pricing starts at .99 for the first year, renewing at .99 annually, with mid-tier and highest-tier plans priced at .99 and .99 for the first year, respectively, offering additional identity theft coverage and credit monitoring services.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Microsoft’s Remote Desktop app is going away

Microsoft is transitioning from the Remote Desktop app to a new solution called the Windows App, starting in September 2024, to streamline remote connectivity. Support for the Remote Desktop app will end on May 27, 2025, and users are encouraged to migrate to the Windows App to maintain access to services like Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. Users will need to continue using Remote Desktop Connection until its features are integrated into the Windows App and should utilize RemoteApp and Desktop Connection for Remote Desktop Services until those capabilities are available in the new application.

Winsage

March 1, 2025

Here’s why you should use TeraCopy instead of the built-in file copier on Windows

The default file manager on Windows, Windows Explorer, often lacks functionality for power users, leading many to seek alternative file managers or enhancements. QuickLook allows users to preview files, while the Explorer Tab Utility introduces a tabbed layout. TeraCopy is an add-on that replaces the native file copying system, offering features such as the ability to skip problematic files during transfers, queue multiple copying tasks sequentially, and maintain a log of file transfers. TeraCopy integrates with the Windows shell and learns user habits for quicker access to frequently used folders. However, its user interface may be intimidating for beginners due to the abundance of information displayed. TeraCopy has become essential for enhancing file copying efficiency.

Winsage

February 26, 2025

7 things your file manager should be able to do that File Explorer and Finder can’t

Extensive exploration of file managers for Windows and macOS reveals significant shortcomings in the native solutions provided by Microsoft and Apple. Users are missing features that could enhance file management, including: - A recent folders list that updates in real-time, unlike Windows File Explorer, which updates slowly. - Quick file previews, with Finder allowing previews of nearly any file type, while File Explorer's Preview pane is limited. - A built-in duplicate finder, which neither File Explorer nor Finder currently offers. - More user-friendly bulk file renaming in Finder compared to the cumbersome process in File Explorer. - Customizable toolbars in alternative file managers, improving accessibility and workflow efficiency. - A quick jump bar for swift navigation, which is more immediate in applications like File Pilot than in File Explorer. - A dual-pane view for easier file transfers and comparisons, absent in both Windows and macOS. These features highlight the potential for improved file management solutions beyond the built-in tools.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

Microsoft Weekly: super-fast file managers for Windows 11, faster Edge, new builds, and more

Microsoft Edge has received performance improvements, particularly for lower-end devices, with the latest version 132 enhancing the user interface. Alternatives to File Explorer for Windows 10 and 11, such as File Pilot, are emerging. Support for Windows 95 has ended in a widely-used application, and Microsoft has released several updates for the Windows Insider Program, including new builds for Windows 11 and 10. The Snipping Tool app has been updated to include a cropping tool for easier editing of screen recordings. Microsoft clarified that a feature to keep Microsoft Accounts always signed in will not be implemented at this time. Additionally, a significant update patched high-severity vulnerabilities in Edge, and the Edge Add-ons website has been revamped. Finalwire's AIDA64 has dropped support for Windows 95, 98, and Me. Battery Flyout has been updated to generate detailed battery reports. Xbox and PC Game Pass subscribers can expect new game releases in February 2025, including titles like Avowed and EA Sports F1 24. Sea of Thieves has introduced new content in Season 15, and GTA V on PC will receive an upgrade on March 4. Xbox consoles can now support external hard drives larger than 16TB. The GeForce NOW streaming service has added new titles to its library.

Winsage

February 22, 2025

5 reasons why Windows isn’t the best OS for productivity

Operating systems significantly influence user interactions with computers, accommodating various preferences. Windows is the most widely used operating system for traditional desktops but has several productivity limitations: 1. Windows installations often come with excessive pre-installed applications (bloatware), unlike macOS and most Linux distributions, which have minimal bloatware. 2. Windows lacks built-in productivity software, requiring users to purchase Microsoft Office or use alternatives, while macOS includes basic applications and Linux offers LibreOffice for free. 3. Windows does not have an integrated local file-sharing solution comparable to Apple's AirDrop, making file transfers between devices more cumbersome. 4. Keyboard and touchpad shortcuts in Windows are less intuitive and consistent compared to macOS, which can hinder productivity for users accustomed to macOS gestures. 5. Windows is a primary target for malware due to its widespread use, leading to a higher risk of system compromise compared to macOS and Linux, which encounter less malware.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

You can finally try one of the best File Explorer alternatives

File Pilot is a lightweight file manager that has transitioned from a closed beta to public availability as a free public beta. It features multiple tabs for multitasking, the ability to open two folders side by side, an Inspector feature for previewing file contents, batch renaming capabilities, and a GoTo navigation system for quicker access to paths. Users can customize font sizes, disable animations, and change the color scheme. The app includes a unique context menu for integrating third-party app actions and custom commands. After the beta phase, File Pilot will adopt a paid model with two subscription options: the Essential plan and the Pro plan, which offers additional benefits.