ISO files Archives

Winsage

May 6, 2025

My week with Linux: I’m dumping Windows for Ubuntu to see how it goes

BitLocker encryption is enabled by default on most Windows 11 systems, which can hinder the installation of Ubuntu. To proceed with the installation, BitLocker was temporarily disabled through the Control Panel. A bootable USB drive for Ubuntu was created using Rufus with an SK hynix Tube drive. The Ubuntu 25.04 ISO file, known as "Plucky Puffin," was downloaded at 5.8GB in about a minute. The decision was made to install Ubuntu 25.04 instead of the more stable Ubuntu 24.04 LTS due to a desire for the latest features. The installation was planned for both a ThinkPad X1 Carbon and a custom-built desktop with an AMD Ryzen 9 7950X CPU.

Winsage

May 3, 2025

Say ‘no thanks’ Microsoft Windows 11 and ‘yes please’ to AnduinOS 1.3

Windows 10 is approaching its end of life, prompting users to consider alternatives to Windows 11, which has several challenges including strict hardware requirements and mandatory Microsoft account registration. One alternative is AnduinOS, a Linux distribution designed for users transitioning from Windows. The latest version, 1.3.0, is built on Ubuntu 25.04 and features GNOME 48, offering a familiar interface with a centered taskbar and rounded window corners. Key updates in version 1.3.0 include an integrated app store based on Flatpak, pre-installed GNOME Software, support for HDR displays, a new Super + V shortcut for clipboard history, and improved localization for Firefox. AnduinOS 1.3 is available for download with separate ISO files for each supported language.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

How To Dual Boot Linux and Windows on any PC

The process of installing Linux has evolved from text-based installers in the late 1990s to user-friendly graphical installers in distributions like Ubuntu and OpenSUSE. Users can start with a single-board computer like the Raspberry Pi or set up a dual-boot configuration with Windows and Linux using a custom boot menu called GRUB. It is advisable to back up the drive before installation to prevent data loss. To create a Linux Install USB, users need to download an ISO image of the Linux distribution and use Rufus to write it onto a USB drive of at least 8GB. The steps include selecting the USB drive, choosing the Linux OS, selecting the GPT partition scheme, and writing the OS in ISO image mode. For dual-boot installation, users should insert the USB drive, boot from it, and select “Try or Install Ubuntu” from the GRUB menu. After testing hardware functionality, the installation process involves selecting language, configuring accessibility, choosing keyboard layout, connecting to the Internet, and selecting installation options. Users must choose “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager” and allocate space for each operating system. After installation, users need to adjust BIOS settings to ensure the system boots from the Linux installation. This includes selecting the Boot menu, setting the Linux install as Boot Option 1, and saving the changes. Upon rebooting, users can select their Linux OS from the GRUB menu and verify the functionality of both operating systems.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

Windows 10 LTSC – the version that won’t expire for years

The end of support for Windows 10 is approaching in October, but two editions will remain supported for two and seven more years, respectively. Windows 10 LTSC 2021 will receive mainstream support until January 12, 2027, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 until January 13, 2032. LTSC versions lack the Windows Store and many modern applications, offering a streamlined experience with essential features only. Activation of LTSC editions requires an enterprise product key, obtainable through a Volume License Agreement. The IoT version is limited to US English, while the standard LTSC supports 38 languages. LTSC editions do not receive version upgrades, remaining on version 21H2 indefinitely. LTSC ISO files are not readily available on the Microsoft download page but can be accessed through the Microsoft portal with an enterprise license. Unauthorized third-party Windows distributions, such as Tiny11 and Atlas OS, exist but may violate Microsoft’s terms of service.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

4 features in Parallels that make it the best VM software on Mac

The discontinuation of Boot Camp support for Apple Silicon Macs has led to the rise of virtualization software, with Parallels being a leading solution. Parallels simplifies the installation of Windows 11 by automatically downloading the operating system and creating a local Windows account, avoiding the need for a Microsoft account. It supports high refresh rates, allowing Windows VMs to run at up to 120Hz on compatible monitors. Parallels integrates seamlessly with macOS, enabling users to access files across both operating systems and facilitating a fluid workflow. The Coherence feature allows Windows applications to run within the Mac desktop environment, making them feel like native macOS apps. Parallels is recognized as the premier virtualization choice for running Windows on Apple Silicon Macs, demonstrating strong performance even on entry-level devices.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

Get Windows 11 on Your Mac (Apple Silicon): Here’s How

Parallels Desktop is a Microsoft-authorized virtualization software that allows users to install and run Windows 11 on Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4 chips). It is optimized for these processors, ensuring a fast and responsive experience. The installation process is straightforward, requiring users to download and install the software, which automates the Windows 11 setup. Key features include seamless integration between macOS and Windows, allowing file sharing and access to applications across both operating systems without rebooting. Parallels Desktop offers a 14-day free trial, after which users can choose between subscription plans or a one-time purchase. The software is designed to maximize performance for Apple Silicon Macs, making it suitable for various users, including professionals and students.

Winsage

February 5, 2025

KB5053484: Microsoft shares new PowerShell script for updated Windows 11/10 boot media

In February 2024, Microsoft announced the rollout of new 2023 Secure Boot Certificate Authority (CA) keys to replace the 2011 certificates that were introduced with Windows 8. This initiative began with Patch Tuesday updates, specifically KB5034765 for Windows 11 and KB5034763 for Windows 10, as the 2011 certificates are set to expire in 2026. Microsoft released a PowerShell script, Make2023BootableMedia.ps1, to update Windows bootable media for compatibility with the new Windows UEFI CA 2023 certificate, addressing the Black Lotus Secure Boot vulnerability (CVE-2023-24932). The script can update various types of bootable media, including ISO files, USB drives, and local or network drive paths. Users must have the latest Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (Windows ADK) for the script to function properly, and it should be executed from an elevated PowerShell prompt with the appropriate media source provided. Comprehensive details are available in the KB5053484 support article on Microsoft's website.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 24H2 installation issues, newer updates fail for some PCs

Windows 11 24H2 is a stable update compared to its predecessors, but users may face a significant bug that prevents new cumulative updates from installing if they used an updated ISO during installation. The issue arises when using a USB drive or other media to install Windows 11 24H2 with the October or November 2024 security updates, which can disrupt Windows Update. Problems can occur when using third-party tools to create a custom installation or modifying installation media, leading to conflicts with Windows Update. Microsoft does not provide additional ISO files with integrated newer updates, and users who customize their installation media may be unable to apply future updates. Microsoft has acknowledged that this issue affects a small number of PCs and recommends using the Media Creation Tool to create new installation media and reinstall the operating system as a workaround. A fix is expected to be addressed in January.

Winsage

December 19, 2024

The 4 easiest ways to test Linux on your old PC before Windows 10 support runs out

The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, prompting users to consider alternatives like Linux, especially if they cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations. Four methods to evaluate Linux distributions without full installation include: 1. Live distribution: Users can run Linux from a USB drive, allowing exploration without affecting the existing system. 2. VirtualBox on Windows 10: This virtual machine manager enables users to create virtual Linux environments using downloaded ISO files. 3. DistroSea: A web-based platform that allows testing various Linux distributions directly from a browser without installation. 4. Installing Linux on an old PC: Users can install Linux on an unused computer to experiment with different distributions and installation processes. These methods help users assess hardware compatibility and find a suitable desktop environment.

Winsage

November 17, 2024

Microsoft Weekly: one dead Insider Channel, a big drop of Windows updates, and more

November 2024's Patch Tuesday updates have been released for Windows 11 and Windows 10, including KB5046617 and KB5046633 for Windows 11, and KB5046613, KB5046615, KB5046612, and KB5046665 for Windows 10. These updates address security vulnerabilities and resolve app crashes on Windows 10 and Task Manager issues on Windows 11. Microsoft has introduced new group policies to prevent auto-upgrades for Windows Server 2022 and 2019. Both Windows 10 and 11 will see a reduction in updates starting December 2024. Official Windows 11 ISO files for ARM devices have been released. The Microsoft Store will remove instant games from the Arcade tab on November 14, 2024, but will introduce Android games through a partnership with Tencent. A new "Edit with Paint" context menu option has been added for Windows Insiders. Windows 10's Beta Channel has been discontinued, transitioning users to the Release Preview Channel. Microsoft has reintroduced the MSN brand with a new logo. Microsoft Edge has been updated to version 131, and notable driver updates include Intel's 32.0.101.6297 and Nvidia's 566.14 WHQL. Upcoming game releases include Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on December 9 and S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl on November 20. Blizzard announced remasters of Warcraft I and II. Age of Empires II's fifth anniversary has led to unlocked DLC packs for existing owners and Game Pass subscribers. The Game Pass library has added three Spyro games. Discounts on Xbox Series X|S consoles and controllers are available for the holiday season, along with a software update for Xbox consoles introducing new features. The Epic Games Store is offering free games, including Castlevania Anniversary Collection and Snakebird Complete.