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Still on Windows 10? 0patch may be your best defense in the 'End of Support era'
Winsage
January 16, 2026

Still on Windows 10? 0patch may be your best defense in the ‘End of Support era’

In early 2023, Microsoft announced that official support for Windows 10 would end in 2025, with regular updates and security patches ceasing on October 14, 2025. Users have a little over two years to transition to Windows 11 or other operating systems. Some users have enrolled in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which will also end in October 2026. A third-party service called 0patch offers ongoing protection for Windows 10 by providing micropatches for vulnerabilities. 0patch releases two to three micropatches each month, prioritizing vulnerabilities that are publicly known, actively exploited, and lack an official Microsoft fix. 0patch has a free version that provides critical zero-day patches and a paid Pro plan that includes legacy patches. The Pro plan costs €25 per year, while an Enterprise plan is available for €35 annually. 0patch plans to support Windows 10 until at least October 2030, depending on user demand. Users have reported some performance issues with 0patch, but the updates are lightweight and do not significantly affect system performance.
Speed Up Your Windows 11 Launch Time in a Snap. Here's How to Do It
Winsage
January 15, 2026

Speed Up Your Windows 11 Launch Time in a Snap. Here’s How to Do It

The delay in booting up a Windows 11 laptop can be caused by multiple applications that automatically launch at startup, which can hinder system performance. Common applications that may launch include antivirus programs, Microsoft OneDrive, Slack, gaming applications, backup tools, and webcam software. Users can manage these startup applications through three methods: Task Manager, Settings, or File Explorer. In Task Manager, users can view and disable startup applications by right-clicking on entries in the Startup apps menu. The impact of each application on startup time is categorized as high, medium, low, none, or not measured. In the Settings app, users can navigate to Apps and then Startup to toggle off applications they do not want to launch automatically. File Explorer can also be used to manage startup applications by accessing the shell:appsfolder and shell:startup or shell:common startup commands to view and modify the applications set to launch at sign-in. Users are advised to disable applications they rarely use while keeping essential security software enabled. Third-party startup managers like Autoruns and Startup Delayer can provide additional insights into startup applications. Similar management methods apply to previous Windows versions.
Slack Messenger Review: Why This Work Chat App Is Still the Only One That Feels Human
AppWizard
January 15, 2026

Slack Messenger Review: Why This Work Chat App Is Still the Only One That Feels Human

Slack Messenger is a collaboration platform developed by Slack Technologies, part of Salesforce Inc., designed to enhance work communication by replacing email and fragmented chat applications with an organized, searchable hub. It features channel-based messaging for project and topic organization, powerful search capabilities for efficient information retrieval, and integrations with popular tools like Google Drive and GitHub. Additional functionalities include Slack Connect for external collaboration, built-in audio/video huddles, Workflow Builder for automating tasks, and enterprise-grade security options. Users report a significant reduction in internal email, improved search efficiency, and a positive impact on team culture, although challenges such as notification overload and a learning curve exist. Compared to alternatives like Microsoft Teams and Google Chat, Slack is noted for its user-friendly experience and dynamic functionality.
How much RAM does your PC really need in 2026? A Windows and Mac expert's verdict
Winsage
January 14, 2026

How much RAM does your PC really need in 2026? A Windows and Mac expert’s verdict

Shopping for a new computer involves focusing on three critical components: the processor, storage drive, and RAM. For Windows machines, 16GB of RAM is the operational minimum for new consumer laptops, while 4GB is the minimum requirement for Windows 11. MacBook users can find satisfactory performance with 8GB of RAM, but Apple has set 16GB as the starting point for its new MacBook Air M4. Chromebooks can operate effectively with 8GB or less. More RAM generally improves performance, but excessive memory can lead to diminishing returns. DDR stands for "double data rate," with DDR5 being the latest standard for faster data transfer speeds. Most users find 16GB adequate, while gamers and creative professionals may need 32GB. Beyond 32GB is typically excessive unless engaged in demanding activities, where 48GB or 64GB may be warranted.
CES 2026: Showcasing new Windows 11 PC innovations across the ecosystem
Winsage
January 13, 2026

CES 2026: Showcasing new Windows 11 PC innovations across the ecosystem

CES showcased significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) integrated into the Windows ecosystem, with various companies unveiling new products. Acer introduced the Copilot+ PCs, including the Swift 16 AI laptop with a haptic touchpad and Predator Helios Neo 16S AI gaming laptop. ASUS launched the Zenbook DUO, featuring dual OLED touchscreens, and the ROG Zephyrus Duo, a dual-screen gaming laptop. Dell refreshed its XPS brand with new laptops and monitors, while HP presented the EliteBook X G2 Series and the EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC. Lenovo revealed several new Copilot+ PCs, and Samsung introduced the Galaxy Book6 series. AMD and Intel announced new processor lines, with AMD's Ryzen AI 400 Mobile Series and Intel's Core Ultra Series 3 processors. Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon X2 Plus for enhanced AI experiences in PCs.
5 Apps That Can Breathe New Life Into Your Old Windows PC
Winsage
January 7, 2026

5 Apps That Can Breathe New Life Into Your Old Windows PC

Windows PCs can become slow due to digital clutter from uninstalled applications, unused registry entries, and background processes. This software bloat can often be optimized using lightweight, free tools instead of upgrading hardware. Microsoft PC Manager is a user-friendly utility that enhances performance by clearing temporary files and freeing up RAM, featuring sections for System Protection, Storage Management, and App Management. The Everything app provides rapid file search results by reading the Master File Table, conserving system resources and allowing customization of search preferences. Chris Titus Tech's Windows Utility is a powerful debloater tool that can remove telemetry and bloatware, with options for tweaking system settings to improve performance, though caution is advised to avoid instability. The Thorium Browser is a lightweight alternative to resource-intensive browsers, built on the Chromium framework, providing speed and efficiency while maintaining compatibility with older hardware. Bulk Crap Uninstaller offers a thorough uninstallation process, removing all traces of software and allowing for bulk uninstalls, with features like color-coded categorization and the option to create restore points.
Windows 11 Trails Older OS Versions in ThinkPad X220 Speed Tests
Winsage
January 6, 2026

Windows 11 Trails Older OS Versions in ThinkPad X220 Speed Tests

Windows 11 has been tested on a Lenovo ThinkPad X220, revealing it to perform poorly compared to its predecessors, particularly Windows 8.1, which excelled in benchmarks for boot times and application launches. The test involved various Windows versions (XP, Vista, 7, 8.1, 10, and 11) on the same aging hardware, highlighting that Windows 11 consistently finished last in most categories. The ThinkPad X220 does not meet Windows 11’s minimum requirements, lacking essential components like TPM 2.0 and a compatible processor, which may have skewed the results. Critics argue that using outdated hardware for testing is not representative, suggesting that a fair comparison would involve flagship devices from each generation. Windows 11's architecture is designed for modern multicore CPUs and SSDs, which may struggle on older hardware. Additionally, Windows 11 has heavier overheads due to advanced security features, which consume resources that older operating systems do not. User feedback indicates frustration with Windows 11's performance on legacy hardware compared to leaner alternatives like Linux. Despite Microsoft promoting optimizations in Windows 11, these did not manifest in the ThinkPad test, and the findings raise concerns for businesses considering upgrades as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support date in 2025.
End of Windows 11 SE likely in 2026: See what it means for schools
Winsage
January 4, 2026

End of Windows 11 SE likely in 2026: See what it means for schools

Microsoft has confirmed that support for Windows 11 SE will end in 2026. Windows 11 SE was launched in 2021 to cater to younger students and aimed to compete with Chromebooks by providing a secure and cost-effective solution for schools. It featured restrictions to minimize distractions, allowing only IT administrators to install applications. The last release of Windows 11 SE was version 24H2, and complete support, including security patches, will conclude on October 13, 2026. Microsoft has advised schools to transition to standard versions of Windows 11, which may require additional funding for device upgrades or replacements.
Microsoft to end support for Windows 11 SE in 2026
Winsage
January 4, 2026

Microsoft to end support for Windows 11 SE in 2026

Microsoft will conclude support for its Windows 11 SE operating system, designed for K–8 classrooms, by the end of 2026. The final version will be 24H2, and full support, including security patches, will end on October 13, 2026. Schools using these devices will face challenges as they will no longer receive security updates, raising concerns about student data privacy. Microsoft is advising educational institutions to consider hardware that supports standard versions of Windows 11. This shift creates budgetary concerns for schools that invested in the SE ecosystem, as they will need to secure funds for upgrades or replacements.
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