files Archives

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Microsoft is finally giving the Start menu the overhaul we’ve all been waiting for

The Start menu in the latest preview builds of Windows 11 is being redesigned to enhance user experience by addressing customization and functionality issues. The updates in builds 26200.5518 and 26120.3671 introduce a wider layout with a single scrollable view, removing the need for clicks to access the All apps section. Applications will be displayed directly beneath pinned items and recommendations, reducing clutter. Users can disable the Recommended section for a minimalist interface and adjust settings to hide recently added apps, most used apps, and various recommendations. Additionally, users can automatically display all pinned apps without expanding the view. This feature is currently hidden and requires enabling specific feature IDs to access it.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

6 features worth enabling God Mode in Windows 11 for

God Mode in Windows grants access to over 200 settings and functionalities, many of which are typically hidden. Users can pin the God Mode folder to the Start menu or Quick Access in File Explorer for easy access. Key features include: - BitLocker: A disk encryption tool that protects data on drives using AES encryption, accessible via password, PIN, or Windows Hello. - Network Management: Simplifies access to network settings for connecting, checking status, and troubleshooting connectivity issues. - Power Management: Allows quick adjustments to power plans, battery settings, and actions for closing the laptop lid or pressing power buttons. - Accessibility: Offers extensive settings for users with disabilities, including tools like Narrator and Magnifier. - File Type Options: Enables users to manage file type associations and visibility of files and folders. - Windows Tools: Centralizes access to built-in maintenance tools like Disk Cleanup and Task Scheduler. God Mode enhances the user experience by providing a more efficient way to navigate system features compared to the traditional Control Panel.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Windows 11 finally gets a proper Start menu with this Quantum upgrade — install it now

Microsoft's Windows 11 features a centered Start menu and taskbar aimed at modernizing its aesthetic, but many users find it uninspiring. The Quantum Start Menu is a Windhawk theme designed to enhance the Windows 11 interface, providing a cleaner and more intuitive Start menu and taskbar. YouTuber Link Vegas has created a video guide for installing the Quantum Start Menu, which requires a theme package, Windhawk application, and configuration files.

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2025

Over 1,500 PostgreSQL Servers Hit by Fileless Malware Attack

A malware campaign has compromised over 1,500 PostgreSQL servers using fileless techniques to deploy cryptomining payloads. The attack, linked to the threat actor group JINX-0126, exploits publicly exposed PostgreSQL instances with weak or default credentials. The attackers utilize advanced evasion tactics, including unique hashes for binaries and fileless execution of the miner payload, making detection difficult. They exploit PostgreSQL’s COPY ... FROM PROGRAM function to execute malicious payloads and perform system discovery commands. The malware includes a binary named “postmaster,” which mimics legitimate processes, and a secondary binary named “cpu_hu” for cryptomining operations. Nearly 90% of cloud environments host PostgreSQL databases, with about one-third being publicly exposed, providing easy entry points for attackers. Each wallet associated with the campaign had around 550 active mining workers, indicating the extensive scale of the attack. Organizations are advised to implement strong security configurations to protect their PostgreSQL instances.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows OS On A Pixel Watch! PHD Student Achieves The Impossible! News24 –

A PhD student named Gustave Monce, along with a small team, successfully ran the Windows operating system on a Pixel Watch through the WOA project. The process involved examining a rooted boot image, modifying the stock UEFI, altering the ACPI table, and patching various files to enable the watch to run Windows PE. Despite the extensive work, the project faced challenges due to the Pixel Watch's internal architecture, which was designed for its native OS. Additionally, old iPads can be repurposed as e-readers by downloading e-book reader applications or, for a more ambitious project, by booting them with a Raspberry Pi or another Linux-based operating system.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

This simple upgrade is making old computers feel new again

Many users experience issues with sluggish laptops and frozen screens, prompting a reconsideration of their devices. Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10, making it a good time to upgrade to Windows 11, specifically the Pro version, which is currently priced at .97, down from .99. Windows 11 Pro offers faster startup times, enhanced battery life, improved application performance, a redesigned user interface, productivity features like snap layouts and widgets, and an AI-powered assistant called Copilot. The Pro version also includes remote desktop access, BitLocker device encryption for security, and advanced features like Azure AD, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. There are fewer than 75 licenses remaining at the promotional price.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 Gets Quick Machine Recovery to Fix Boot Failures via the Internet

Microsoft has introduced Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) as part of its Windows Resiliency Initiative to improve the security and reliability of Windows 11 following a global incident with a faulty update. QMR addresses boot failures by allowing users to access the recovery environment, connect to the internet for automatic troubleshooting, and receive targeted fixes via Windows Update. Currently, it is being tested in the Windows 11 24H2 Insider Preview Build 26120.3653 and will be enabled by default for Home edition users. Users can access QMR by entering the recovery environment, selecting Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options. Additionally, an internet-based recovery option in Windows Settings can repair system components while preserving user data.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Your PC’s Windows install needs spring cleaning too. Here’s how to do it

- Regular maintenance of a PC is essential, especially during seasonal changes. - Uninstall unnecessary programs by accessing the Windows 11 Start menu, reviewing installed applications, and selecting Uninstall. - Specialized uninstall tools like Revo Uninstaller or Iobit Uninstaller can help remove leftover files and registry entries after standard uninstallation. - Unused Windows apps and features can be removed using Powershell commands or the freeware version of CCleaner. - Windows has a built-in cleaning service called "Storage Sense" that can be activated in Settings > System > Storage to manage unnecessary files automatically. - The Disk Cleanup tool can be accessed by typing cleanmgr in the search field to target temporary files and the recycle bin. - Software like Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro can help find and delete duplicate photos in large collections. - To reset Windows 11, navigate to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC, with an option to keep existing files or perform a complete reinstall.

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.