local accounts Archives

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 2, 2025

6 reasons why I think Microsoft should keep the ‘local account’ option in Windows 11

Microsoft has updated Windows 11 to make it more difficult for users to bypass internet and Microsoft account requirements during installation, specifically in builds 26120.3653 and 26200.5516. The "BypassNRO.cmd" script, which allowed the creation of local accounts without an internet connection, has been removed. Local accounts provide enhanced privacy by storing data locally, simplify the setup process without needing an internet connection, and allow unrestricted access to systems in offline environments. Users can choose meaningful folder names with local accounts, and they facilitate smoother Remote Desktop connections compared to Microsoft accounts. Although local accounts can still be created post-installation, there are concerns about their availability in future updates, especially for the Home edition.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

New Windows 11 build makes mandatory Microsoft Account sign-in even more mandatory

Microsoft has released a new Windows Insider build of Windows 11 in its Dev Channel, which includes the removal of the bypassnro command prompt script. This script previously allowed users to bypass the mandatory Microsoft Account sign-in during the setup of new installations. The change is intended to enhance security and user experience, ensuring that all users complete setup with internet connectivity and a Microsoft Account. This decision complicates the setup process for users who prefer local accounts or who lack internet access.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft cracks down on Windows 11 users who don’t log in with Microsoft accounts

Microsoft is increasingly favoring the use of Microsoft accounts over traditional local accounts in Windows 11, reflecting a trend towards online connectivity. The ability to create local accounts has been further restricted, with the removal of the bypassnro.cmd script that allowed users to set up local accounts without internet access. Users must now complete the setup process with internet connectivity and a Microsoft account. Third-party tools like Rufus still allow the creation of local accounts during installation, providing a workaround for those who prefer local accounts.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

Transform Windows 10/11 into the OS you’ve always wanted with Seelen UI

Seelen UI version 2.2.0 introduces several new features and enhancements for Windows 10 and Windows 11, including: - Ability to disable app thumbnail generation on the dock. - Locking dock and toolbar items for a stable workspace. - Instance counter for the same app on the dock. - Customization options for toolbar positioning. - Setting a custom start menu icon. - Language selector for the toolbar. - Dynamic color highlighting based on the focused app. - Introduction of a hibernate button in the toolbar power menu. - Media volume mixer operating by app and device. - Clickable notifications and images for enhanced interactivity. Enhancements include: - Settings displayed at startup for immediate access. - Expanded power module supporting various power plans. Refactor includes: - Update of the windows-rs crate to version 0.59.0 for improved performance. Fixes address: - Correct display of local accounts with domain in username. - Issue with Application Frame Host displaying instead of actual app name. - Event order in Windows event handling for better reliability. Changes include: - Updated dependencies for enhanced functionality. - Position variable for the fancy toolbar. - Instance counter for multiple open windows. - Power plan options added to power settings. - Option to disable reordering on the WEG and toolbar. - Improved notification max height and hover transitions. - Language improvements, particularly for Japanese and Russian. - Fixes related to Bluetooth module functionality and fullscreen app compatibility.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

5 ways Windows has gotten worse in recent years

The evolution of Windows has seen a shift from a fun, playful ecosystem in the 90s and early 2000s to a more utilitarian interface focused on functionality. Key changes include the phasing out of local accounts in favor of Microsoft accounts, leading to privacy concerns; a Start menu in Windows 11 that lacks customization and flexibility; Microsoft's aggressive promotion of Edge as the default browser, limiting user choice; and an increase in advertisements within the operating system, which has drawn criticism from users.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (Dev and Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (KB5053660) has been released for the Dev and Beta Channels. Updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2, are initially optional for Beta Channel users but will become recommended later this year. Users in the Dev Channel can temporarily switch to the Beta Channel while both channels release the same updates, but this option will close once the Dev Channel advances. New features include the Recommended files feature in File Explorer, real-time translation for various languages on Copilot+ PCs, and a new recommendation for snap groups in the Start menu. Enhanced web search support is being introduced for the EEA, and a toast notification will prompt users to add secondary email or recovery phone numbers to their Microsoft accounts. The update also introduces dynamic widgets for web developers and a new system tray icon for emojis and GIFs. "Top cards" under Settings will provide a view of key PC specifications. Fixes include improved accessibility in File Explorer, resolution of issues with the Snap Bar, and crashes affecting settings and input. Known issues include incorrect build version display after a PC reset and issues with Recall snapshots on managed PCs. Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates via an enablement package, and features may evolve based on feedback. Some features may not be fully localized, and accessibility features may not function with certain preview features.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (Dev and Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (KB5053660) has been released for the Dev and Beta Channels. Updates for the Beta Channel based on Windows 11, version 24H2 will initially be optional but will become recommended later this year. Users in the Dev Channel can switch to the Beta Channel while the 24H2 updates are being released, but this option will close as the Dev Channel progresses. New features include: - Recommended files in File Explorer for personal Microsoft or local accounts. - Real-time translation to Chinese (Simplified) on AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs. - Snap group recommendations in the Start menu. - Enhanced web search support for the EEA. - Toast notifications prompting users to add a secondary email or recovery phone number. - Dynamic and interactive widgets for web developers. - A new system tray icon for easier access to emojis and more. - New "top cards" in Settings > System > About displaying key PC specifications. Fixes include improvements to accessibility in File Explorer, resolution of Snap Bar display issues, and fixes for crashes in Settings and typing capabilities. Known issues involve inaccurate build version display post-PC reset and issues with Recall snapshots on managed PCs. Beta Channel updates will be delivered via an enablement package, and features may appear in the Beta Channel before the Dev Channel.

Winsage

March 8, 2025

The Windows 11 Beta will finally bring peace to your chaotic file organization

The Windows 11 Beta has introduced a "Recommended Files" section in File Explorer, available in Beta build 22635.5025, which allows users to quickly access relevant files based on recent activities. This section displays a carousel of thumbnail previews of frequently used, recently downloaded, or added files. It is accessible to all Windows Insiders signed in with personal Microsoft or local accounts, although residents of the European Economic Area may not have immediate access. Additionally, the Beta version highlights commonly snapped applications in the Start menu, providing shortcuts for users to launch pairs of applications that they frequently use side by side.

Winsage

March 7, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.5025 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.5025 (KB5053661) has been released to the Beta Channel for users who have not transitioned to Windows 11, version 24H2. New features include recommended files in File Explorer, which displays frequently used and recently downloaded files, and a feature in the Start menu that recommends snap groups of apps. Enhanced support for web search providers in Windows Search for the EEA has also been implemented. Fixes include resolving an issue causing File Explorer to close slowly. Known issues involve delays in displaying app icons in the Start menu and the organization of Windows Tools related apps. Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 23H2, and features may evolve or be removed based on feedback.