hardware upgrade

Winsage
December 4, 2025
Upgrading to Windows 11 involves careful planning and preparation. Start by updating Windows 10 to ensure recent updates are applied. Acquire a USB flash drive (at least 8GB) for the installation process, and document current software licenses as some applications may require reactivation. Check for driver updates to ensure hardware compatibility with Windows 11. There are three main upgrade methods: 1. Windows Update Automatic Upgrade: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, check for updates, and if compatible, download and install Windows 11. This method retains files and applications and typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. 2. Media Creation Tool Installation: Download the Media Creation Tool, run it, and follow prompts to create installation media on a USB drive. This method is useful for upgrading multiple devices. 3. Clean Installation Process: Insert the USB drive with setup files, restart the device, boot from the USB, and follow the instructions for a custom installation. This method erases all existing data, so comprehensive backups are necessary. Effective planning is crucial, and it is advisable to start the upgrade process well before the deadline of October 14, 2025. This allows time for testing applications, training staff, and addressing hardware requirements. Ensure all devices are compatible to avoid security issues, and consider a robust data protection strategy, such as a 3-2-1 backup approach. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free for users with genuine Windows 10 licenses. If a device does not meet the requirements, it cannot be upgraded. Users can roll back to Windows 10 within 10 days of the upgrade, retaining previous files. The upgrade process typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on various factors. Planning the upgrade early helps mitigate operational disruptions, allowing for staggered upgrades and reduced risks of security vulnerabilities as Windows 10 support ends.
Winsage
December 4, 2025
Windows 10 reached its end of life on October 14, leading to a migration towards Windows 11, which gained 2.02% market share, while Windows 10's share fell below 30%, a decrease of 2.08%. Linux also increased its market share by 0.15% to 3.20%. Approximately 500 million PCs were unable to upgrade to Windows 11 by the end of Windows 10's life, and users face hardware upgrade challenges. Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates as a temporary measure, and Dell's COO indicated that around 500 million additional PCs could transition to Windows 11 without hardware updates.
AppWizard
October 22, 2025
Mouse PI For Hire, a first-person shooter by Fumi Games, is set to be released in early 2026, delayed from its original 2025 date. Players will assume the role of Jack Pepper, a detective in the city of Mouseburg, combining action and detective work. The game features voice actor Troy Baker and emphasizes both combat and investigative mechanics.
Winsage
October 13, 2025
Microsoft reports a 62% reduction in security incidents with Windows 11 compared to Windows 10. The upgrade to Windows 11 is free for devices meeting hardware specifications, and an extended security update program for Windows 10 users is available until October 13, 2026. Critics, including CALPIRG, argue that the transition could lead to increased electronic waste, as many of the estimated 400 million Windows 10 users may lack the necessary hardware for the upgrade. Concerns include potential security risks when Windows 10 no longer receives updates, leading to discarded computers. Advocacy efforts have previously resulted in extended security updates for U.S. schools and free updates for Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area. The right to repair movement has initiated the End of 10 initiative to assist users in migrating to Linux. Some IT professionals view the transition as a necessary evolution in technology, emphasizing the importance of upgrading for security reasons.
Winsage
October 10, 2025
Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025, with no extensions or changes to hardware requirements. Users have several options: 1. Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 on a subscription basis for up to three years, with varying costs based on user type. 2. Users can purchase new PCs or rent a virtual PC through Windows 365, which includes extended security updates. 3. There are methods to bypass compatibility restrictions to upgrade incompatible hardware to Windows 11, though this may carry risks. 4. Users can switch to alternative operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS Flex, which may be suitable for older hardware but may not support specific Windows software. 5. Continuing to use an unsupported operating system poses security risks, and while some may use third-party antivirus solutions, this approach is not advisable for business-critical systems.
AppWizard
October 7, 2025
The gaming community is speculating about a potential sequel to the 2021 title, Aliens: Fireteam Elite, as a page for Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 has appeared on the ESRB website, listing Daybreak Game Company as the publisher. Cold Iron Studios hinted at a new project last September, but did not confirm it as a sequel. The ESRB has assigned an M for Mature rating to the game, indicating readiness and suggesting that an official announcement may be forthcoming. The sequel is anticipated for release in 2025.
Winsage
September 24, 2025
To determine the version of Windows your device is running, you can use several methods: 1. Settings Menu: - Open the Start menu. - Click on the gear icon for Settings. - Navigate to System, then select About to find your edition, version, and build number. 2. Run Dialog Box: - Press Win + R. - Type "winver" and press Enter to see a pop-up with your build number, edition, and version. 3. Command Prompt or PowerShell: - Right-click on Start and select either PowerShell or Command Prompt. - Type "systeminfo" and press Enter for a detailed system report. Understanding your Windows version, edition, and build number is important for software compatibility, security updates, and accessing new features. To verify if you are on the latest release, compare your Windows build number with Microsoft’s Release Health page. If your version is outdated, you can either install updates through Windows Update or consider a hardware upgrade if compatibility issues arise.
Winsage
September 19, 2025
The global market for PC-based gaming hardware is projected to reach .5 billion by 2025, marking a 35% increase. This market includes desktops, notebooks, DIY setups, and various peripherals. A significant challenge for gamers is the need for a forced hardware migration, requiring CPU upgrades for over 100 million gamers, which may also necessitate motherboard and RAM upgrades. Dr. Jon Peddie forecasts a 13% decline in entry-level PC gaming over the next five years, potentially resulting in over 10 million individuals leaving the PC platform, although many are upgrading to midrange and high-end hardware. Jon Peddie Research offers a comprehensive PC Gaming Hardware Market Models and Consulting Package, which is valuable for industry stakeholders, providing insights for product launches and market analysis. The latest edition of JPR’s PC Gaming Hardware Market Study includes market size data, segment breakdowns, and forecasts, covering 31 countries.
Winsage
September 14, 2025
The end of Windows 10 support is on October 14, 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11. Users can enroll in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of security updates if they wish to retain Windows 10. Lightweight options like Tiny11 Build can help older PCs, but Windows 11's hardware requirements may prevent some users from upgrading. Installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices risks missing essential security updates, making hardware upgrades advisable. Recommended devices for Windows 11 include: - Laptop: Acer Aspire Go 15, featuring an Intel Core i3-N305 CPU, a 15.6-inch display, priced under 0, with up to 10 hours of battery life. - Desktop: Dell XPS 8950, suitable for office use and gaming, especially with Nvidia RTX GPUs. - Gaming Desktop: Acer Predator Orion 5000, known for performance and value, often available for less than ,799 during sales. - Mini PC: Geekom A5 2025 Edition, priced around 9, supports up to four monitors, and has upgradeable components. - All-in-One PC: MSI Modern AM271P 11M, featuring a 27-inch display, suitable for everyday tasks, bundled with a keyboard and mouse. - 2-in-1 Laptop: Microsoft Surface Pro 11, equipped with a Snapdragon X-series chip, designed for both casual browsing and intensive tasks.
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