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Winsage

March 24, 2025

Windows 11’s File Explorer UI could soon scale better when you change OS settings

The Windows 11 23H2 build update KB5053648 in the Beta Channel of the Insider Program improves accessibility by addressing issues with dialog box text scaling in File Explorer. Previously, text size adjustments did not uniformly apply, but the update ensures that all elements within dialog boxes reflect the new text size consistently. Additionally, the update resolves issues with the search indexer causing crashes in File Explorer and fixes the date display of files and folders in the Home section. Users in the EEA region will no longer see account-based recommendations in the Home section, simplifying the interface. There are also discussions about a faster unarchiving experience, although slow loading times persist in File Explorer. Users are encouraged to report glitches through the feedback hub.

Tech Optimizer

December 28, 2024

TotalAV Free Edition

TotalAV Free Edition provides limited antivirus protection, relying heavily on Microsoft Defender for real-time scanning. Installation is straightforward but can be lengthy, and users are automatically enrolled in a seven-day trial of TotalAV Antivirus Pro. The interface resembles the premium version, but it lacks real-time protection, leading to constant alerts for users to upgrade. Independent lab tests have shown that only the Pro version has been evaluated, achieving good scores, while the free edition remains untested. Users can perform on-demand or scheduled scans, with a full scan taking about 53 minutes. However, TotalAV does not register with Windows, complicating the user experience by requiring both TotalAV and Microsoft Defender to operate simultaneously. In a malware protection test, the free edition achieved a 99% removal rate of malware samples, but its phishing protection is inadequate, relying on Edge’s SmartScreen Filter, which has a low detection rate. Most privacy features are locked behind a paid upgrade, although it includes a clean-up scan and uninstaller feature. The Total Security page is the same for both editions, but most features require an upgrade. Overall, the free edition's reliance on Microsoft Defender and limited features suggest users might find better standalone antivirus options.

Tech Optimizer

December 24, 2024

TotalAV Antivirus Pro

TotalAV Antivirus Pro is designed to examine computers for malware and protect against future threats, offering additional features like backup, system tune-up, and ad-blocking. It is priced at .00 per year for protection across five PCs, which is higher than competitors like Norton (.99), Malwarebytes Premium Security (.99), and ESET (.99). TotalAV does not offer various pricing tiers; additional licenses require purchasing a more advanced application. The TotalAV Internet Security package costs .00 per year for six licenses with VPN protection, while the Total Security version costs .00 per year for eight licenses with a password manager. Installation can begin with a free trial or by registering online, and the process is lengthy. The interface features a dark mode option and a streamlined menu. TotalAV scored 17.5 points in independent lab testing by AV-Test Institute, earning it the Top Product designation, and received Advanced certification from AV-Comparatives. In practical tests, it neutralized 72% of malware samples immediately and achieved an overall detection rate of 88%. TotalAV's WebShield detected 96% of phishing sites, outperforming built-in browser protections. Users can choose from quick, full, or custom scans, with the initial full scan taking 53 minutes. Scheduled scans occur weekly, but quick or custom scans cannot be scheduled. Most privacy features require an upgrade, while the free edition includes Total Adblock. TotalAV features a Clean-up Scan for junk files and an Application Uninstaller for removing multiple applications simultaneously. The Total Security page offers features and add-ons, including a basic online backup solution with 2GB of storage.

Winsage

October 27, 2024

Windows 11 Enterprise/Edu may get Settings “Home” with Microsoft account ads

Microsoft has introduced a Home section in the Settings app of Windows 11 23H2, initially for consumer editions, which will soon extend to commercial editions. This Home page allows users to view their device name, connection status, and last update check, as well as access essential settings like power, display, and sound. It also includes personalization options, cloud storage monitoring, backup management, and security reminders. The feature is set to enhance user experience across various environments, with observations indicating a focus on settings recommendations and personalization. Promotions for Microsoft Account services are prevalent in the consumer edition, but may be less relevant for commercial users. There is potential for future updates to streamline the Home page and reduce clutter. Users of Windows 11 LTSC currently do not see these advertisements.