file types Archives

Winsage

May 18, 2026

Switcher 2026: Minimizing the Microsoft in Windows 11 ⭐

Many users of Windows 11 seek to minimize reliance on Microsoft products while still utilizing the operating system's capabilities. This can be achieved through a thoughtful configuration of the system. Two laptops, the Surface Laptop 7 (Windows 11 Pro) and the HP OmniBook 5 (Windows 11 Home), were reset using the "Reset this PC" feature for a clean setup. A local account can be created during the Out of Box Experience (OOBE) by bypassing the online requirement. After connecting to Wi-Fi, updates were installed, and account security was enhanced by adding a password, PIN, and facial recognition. For Windows 11 Pro users, BitLocker can be enabled for disk encryption, while Windows 11 Home users may need to upgrade to Pro for this feature. Unnecessary Microsoft applications, such as OneDrive, OneNote, and Microsoft 365, were uninstalled, and the Start menu was cleaned up. Preferred applications were installed using web-based methods and the Windows Package Manager (winget). A preferred web browser was set as the default, and measures were taken to prevent Microsoft Edge from launching unexpectedly. OneDrive was uninstalled in favor of an alternative cloud storage client, and File Explorer was configured to improve usability. The Copilot key was repurposed to avoid accidental activation, and optional diagnostic data transmission was disabled to enhance privacy. Additional configurations included removing unnecessary taskbar items and adjusting power settings for a more personalized experience.

Winsage

May 13, 2026

Windows 11 security update fixes critical Bing and Azure flaws

Microsoft released its May 2026 Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11, addressing 97 security vulnerabilities across various components, including Windows, Microsoft Office, Azure services, SQL Server, SharePoint, Hyper-V, and .NET. The updates are encapsulated in KB5089549 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, elevating systems to builds 26100.8457 and 26200.8457. Notable vulnerabilities include CVE-2026-32169, a critical flaw in Azure Cloud Shell with a CVSS score of 10.0, and CVE-2026-21536, a critical remote code execution vulnerability in the Microsoft Devices Pricing Program with a CVSS score of 9.8. Other critical vulnerabilities include CVE-2026-32191 and CVE-2026-32194, impacting Microsoft Bing Images, both with CVSS scores of 9.8. The update also addresses multiple Windows privilege escalation vulnerabilities and remote code execution vulnerabilities in Microsoft Office and Excel. Microsoft has warned of upcoming Secure Boot certificate expirations starting in June 2026 and has improved boot reliability related to BitLocker recovery issues. Users can install the updates via Settings → Windows Update, with a system restart required.

BetaBeacon

May 6, 2026

North Korean hackers targeted ethnic Koreans in China with Android ‘BirdCall’ malware

North Korean hackers targeted ethnic Koreans in China with a malware disguised as a popular Android mobile game called BirdCall, allowing them to steal personal data from victims.

Winsage

April 23, 2026

Changing This One Windows Setting Can Make File Explorer Run Much Better

Windows 11's File Explorer has been criticized for sluggish performance, with users experiencing unresponsive commands and crashes. Windows 10 still retains over 30% of the desktop Windows market share despite being out of support. Disabling the "Automatic Folder Type Discovery" feature can enhance File Explorer's speed. This feature scans folders and assigns view types based on contents, which can slow down access, especially in folders with many files. To disable it, users must back up the Registry and navigate to a specific path in the Registry Editor to create a new string value named "FolderType" with the value "NotSpecified." After making this change, users will notice improved loading speed, but folders will display a generic view instead of one tailored to specific file types.

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 19, 2026

Microsoft is giving Windows 11 File Explorer a speed boost, dark mode fix, and reducing explorer.exe crashes

Microsoft is updating Windows 11 by improving File Explorer, focusing on performance and user experience. The latest release, Windows 11 Build 26200.8313, shows File Explorer loading faster and eliminating white flashes in dark mode. This build is currently for Windows Insiders, with public availability expected in April 2026 and further updates in May 2026. The update enhances speed, manages themes better, and adds support for new archive formats like cpio, uu, xar, and nupkg. Reliability improvements have reduced crashes related to explorer.exe, and new features include a preview option for internet-downloaded files, a redesigned search bar, and immediate reflection of folder view preferences.

Winsage

April 18, 2026

“A solid list from the community,” as Reddit users highlight 10 open‑source apps that run great on Windows 11 and deserve more attention

Open-source software is becoming increasingly popular among Windows 11 users for its control, privacy, and avoidance of subscription models. Key applications highlighted include: - Firefox: A recommended open-source browser known for its privacy, customization, and performance, with robust extension support and regular updates. - Bitwarden: An open-source password manager that offers encrypted vault syncing across devices, end-to-end encryption, and features like password generation and autofill. - OBS Studio: A standard tool for screen recording and live streaming, praised for its flexibility and hardware acceleration support on Windows 11. - LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite that provides document, spreadsheet, and presentation tools without subscription fees, supporting common Microsoft Office file formats. - 7-Zip: A file compression utility recognized for its speed and efficiency, offering enhanced security features not present in Windows 11's built-in archive support. - LocalSend: A file transfer tool that allows secure transfers over a local network without needing accounts or cloud services. - GIMP: An open-source image editing tool regarded as an alternative to Photoshop, known for its flexibility and extensive customization options. - Blender: An advanced open-source application for 3D modeling, animation, and video editing, benefiting from strong GPU acceleration on Windows 11. - PowerToys: A suite of productivity utilities for Windows 11 that enhances core features with tools like FancyZones and PowerRename. These applications are favored for their ability to enhance the user experience while prioritizing control, transparency, and long-term usability.

Winsage

April 7, 2026

How to Reset Folder Permissions in Windows 11: 5 Proven Methods That Actually Work

Folder permissions in Windows 11 control access to files, determining who can read, modify, or delete them. Common issues arise from drive or file migration, Windows updates, malware, or user errors. Symptoms include "Access Denied" messages and ownership displayed as "unknown." Methods to resolve folder permission issues include: 1. Security Tab: Reset permissions through the Security tab by modifying access levels and ensuring proper inheritance. 2. Take Ownership: Claim ownership of a folder if the current owner is no longer valid, then reset permissions. 3. Command Prompt: Use commands like PLACEHOLDERfa5c045a85bc6cf0 and PLACEHOLDER14a87b7576573f58 to reset permissions quickly and efficiently. 4. PowerShell: Utilize PowerShell for advanced permission resets, allowing for conditional logic. 5. Windows Reset: As a last resort, reset Windows to restore default permissions while keeping personal files. To prevent future issues, back up permissions before changes, understand NTFS vs. share permissions, and avoid altering system folders. If problems persist, ensure commands are run as an administrator, check ownership settings, and verify that Group Policy or sync tools are not overriding changes.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

The March Windows 11 Insider Update adds 9 fresh features and improvements worth knowing

- Microsoft has introduced several enhancements for Windows 11 through its Windows Insider Program, including previews for versions 25H2, 26H1, 26H2, and anticipated version 27H2. - The Pointer Indicator feature, starting with build 26300.8085, helps users with low vision locate the mouse pointer by overlaying a crosshair effect and offers customizable color options. - A redesigned Feedback Hub app aligns with Windows 11 aesthetics and improves user experience for feedback submission, including Bluetooth LE Audio device connections and main volume controls in Quick Settings. - The File Explorer context menu now displays application icons alongside the "Open" option for certain file types, available in the Canary Channel with build 28020.1743. - The Administrator Protection feature, introduced in builds 26300.8142 and 26220.8138, prompts an authorization dialog for unsigned or untrusted applications seeking privilege elevation, enhancing security. - Windows 11 now allows customization of the right-click zone size on touchpads, available under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touchpad, for touchpads with a pressable surface. - Task Manager updates include new columns for "NPU" and "NPU Engine" on various pages, as well as columns for "NPU Dedicated Memory" and "NPU Shared Memory" on the Details page. - A new icon in printer settings indicates which printers support Windows Protected Print mode, enhancing printing security. - The Windows Console is undergoing significant changes, merging improvements from Windows Terminal, including an optional Direct3D rendering path and enhanced Find dialog functionality.

Winsage

March 25, 2026

Your Windows 11 File Explorer stutters because of an XP-era feature you can turn off in seconds

Windows 11's File Explorer has received mixed reviews, particularly due to delays in opening folders caused by the Automatic Folder Type Discovery feature. This feature scans folder contents to determine the best view, which can lead to frustrating delays, especially in folders with many files. Users can disable this feature through a registry edit, specifically by creating a new string value named FolderType and setting it to NotSpecified in the Registry Editor. After making this change and restarting the PC or File Explorer, the delays associated with Automatic Folder Type Discovery will be eliminated.