multi-monitor setups Archives

Winsage

May 13, 2026

Microsoft releases Windows 10 KB5087544 extended security update

Microsoft has released the Windows 10 KB5087544 extended security update, which addresses vulnerabilities identified during the May 2026 Patch Tuesday and resolves issues related to Remote Desktop warnings. Users on Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC or enrolled in the ESU program can install it via Settings under Windows Update. The update upgrades Windows 10 to build 19045.7291 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 to build 19044.7291. The update focuses on security enhancements and bug fixes, addressing 120 vulnerabilities. Key fixes include resolving incorrect Remote Desktop security warning dialogs in multi-monitor setups, introducing dynamic status reporting for Secure Boot, and adjusting Daylight Savings Time for Egypt. A known issue may require users to input their BitLocker recovery key after installation, affecting systems with specific BitLocker Group Policy configurations. Microsoft suggests removing the affected Group Policy setting and suspending and resuming BitLocker as a temporary solution.

AppWizard

May 10, 2026

Console-like Xbox Mode boosts game performance on Windows 11 PCs

Microsoft has rolled out a new Xbox Mode for Windows 11 PCs, designed to provide a console-like gaming interface that enhances the gaming experience across various devices. This mode, initially introduced on the ROG Xbox Ally X and later expanded to Windows Insider users, allows for controller navigation and minimizes background processes for improved performance. Xbox Mode aggregates game libraries from multiple storefronts, enabling seamless switching between it and the standard Windows 11 desktop. Preliminary tests indicate that Xbox Mode offers performance improvements over standard Windows 11, particularly for Nvidia graphics cards. A YouTuber's analysis showed over 15 percent better performance in 1% low framerates and a 4.3 percent increase in average framerates at 1080p using an Nvidia card. At 1440p, improvements were 25 percent higher 1% lows and a 6.7 percent increase in average framerates. For AMD cards, the gains were less significant, with only a 2.5 percent increase in 1% lows at 1080p and a 1.4 percent improvement at 1440p. However, Xbox Mode has limitations, including issues with multi-monitor setups where secondary displays are blanked out, preventing access to other applications while gaming.

Winsage

May 6, 2026

Microsoft’s Windows 11 update just fixed memory leaks, slow startup, and File Explorer bugs

Microsoft released the April 2026 optional preview update (KB5083631) for Windows 11, targeting versions 24H2 and 25H2. This update resolves the "white flash" bug in File Explorer, overhauls its codebase, and preserves user settings for View and Sort preferences. It improves the reliability of the explorer.exe process, optimizes the Delivery Optimization service to reduce memory leaks, and enhances the boot sequence for faster startup. The update lifts the FAT32 formatting limit from 32GB to 2TB. It also includes reliability improvements for the Taskbar, fixes for Microsoft Store download errors, resolves a Windows Hello fingerprint data loss issue, enhances Remote Desktop scaling, ensures color profile consistency, and improves the Fluid Dictation feature. The comprehensive improvements will be included in the mandatory Patch Tuesday update on May 12, 2026.

Winsage

May 1, 2026

Microsoft brings a Linux-style window trick to Windows 11 via PowerToys, and I can’t go back

Microsoft's PowerToys version 0.99 introduces two new tools: Grab And Move and Power Display, along with enhancements to the Command Palette Dock. Grab And Move allows users to reposition application windows by holding the Alt key and dragging anywhere on the window, facilitating easier window management. Users can customize the activation key and toggle the feature off during gaming sessions. There are also options to exclude specific applications from using this feature. Power Display enables users to manage monitor settings directly from the system tray, including brightness, contrast, volume, rotation, and color temperature adjustments. It supports multi-monitor setups with DDC/CI standards and includes a Profiles option for saving specific monitor settings. The Command Palette Dock now features a compact mode and customization options for pinned commands, improving user accessibility and screen space utilization.

Winsage

April 22, 2026

Hate the Windows 11 Taskbar? Here’s the ultimate way to bring back a classic look from Windows 95 to Windows Vista

Windows 11 has received criticism for its restrictive Taskbar, with users wanting the ability to reposition it to the top of the screen. RetroBar is a free application that restores functionalities from earlier Windows versions, allowing users to customize the Taskbar's position and appearance, including nostalgic themes from Windows XP, Longhorn, and Vista. RetroBar supports custom designs, is compatible with multi-monitor setups, and can be easily installed from GitHub. Users can revert to the standard Windows 11 Taskbar with a simple exit command. The application offers various themes and can be set to launch at startup. RetroBar's code is available on GitHub, including a native ARM64 build for Snapdragon devices.

Winsage

April 14, 2026

Microsoft’s VP brings macOS-style click to reveal desktop feature to Windows with new tool

Scott Hanselman, VP at Microsoft, has introduced a tool called PeekDesktop for Windows, which allows users to minimize all open windows by clicking on an empty area of their desktop wallpaper. A second click or switching back to any application restores the windows to their original positions. This feature is similar to the "click wallpaper to reveal desktop" function in macOS Sonoma, which has not been available in Windows until now. PeekDesktop is easy to install from GitHub, requires no additional setup, and is compatible with Windows on ARM. It uses minimal system resources and operates through lightweight Windows APIs to manage window states. Users can customize settings from the system tray, and Hanselman is working on enhancements to replicate more macOS-style behaviors.

Winsage

April 13, 2026

Windows File Explorer is outdated, and these alternatives fit how you actually use your PC

Windows' File Explorer has limitations such as slow operations and minimal customization, prompting users to seek third-party file managers. FilePilot is a popular choice for its fast, simple, dual-pane interface that enhances speed and efficiency, particularly for bulk operations and multi-monitor setups. OneCommander features a modern design with a column-based navigation system, a preview panel, and color tagging for file organization, making it user-friendly while addressing multitasking issues. Directory Opus is recognized as a comprehensive solution with customizable layouts, scripting capabilities, and advanced search filters, catering to users managing complex datasets. Files is an open-source file manager known for its polished interface, tabbed browsing, dual-pane layout, and extensive customization options, providing a faster and cleaner alternative to Windows 11's Explorer. Each of these alternatives offers unique features that improve upon the limitations of File Explorer.

Winsage

April 9, 2026

Microsoft Promises Long-Overdue Changes To Windows 11 That You’re Going To Love

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users due to controversial Copilot AI features and changes that have compromised functionality, including a redesigned Start menu, a fragmented settings application, and a slower file explorer. Microsoft is responding to user feedback, with Design Director Diego Baca acknowledging issues with the Start menu's performance and stating that "search performance + predictability" is a focus. Partner Director of Design March Rogers confirmed that they are working on migrating legacy Control Panel features to the modern Settings app while ensuring compatibility with various devices and drivers. Users have mixed reactions, particularly concerned about the potential removal of the Control Panel before the new settings are fully functional. Despite the discontent, Windows remains a reliable experience for many users compared to alternatives like Linux.

Winsage

December 25, 2025

Windows 11 Pro Now on Holiday Sale for Only $10

A Windows 11 Pro license is available for a significantly reduced price of , down from the standard 9. This digital-only offer is aimed at individuals upgrading new PCs or revitalizing older systems, providing access to modern security features and performance enhancements. Windows 11 is gradually gaining adoption but still lags behind Windows 10. The discount encourages upgrades, particularly as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support phase. Key features of Windows 11 Pro include BitLocker device encryption, Remote Desktop host, Group Policy management, Domain or Azure Active Directory joining, and Windows Sandbox. Security features align with Microsoft’s zero-trust framework, while performance improvements enhance multitasking and productivity. System requirements for Windows 11 Pro include a compatible 64-bit CPU, at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI with Secure Boot support, and TPM version 2.0. Upgrading from Windows 11 Home is straightforward, and users should ensure the legitimacy of the license purchased.

Winsage

December 24, 2025

How to Get Moving Wallpapers on Windows 11: Guide to Animated Desktops

Windows 11 is set to introduce native video wallpaper support in late 2025, currently available in testing builds for Windows Insiders, supporting formats like MP4, MKV, and WebM. Users can access animated wallpapers through third-party applications, with Lively Wallpaper being a recommended free option that supports various formats and features. Wallpaper Engine is a paid alternative known for its extensive library and interactive wallpapers. VLC Media Player can also set videos as wallpapers, but it has limitations such as requiring constant operation and higher resource usage. Animated wallpapers generally consume more battery and system resources, but modern applications include features to mitigate these impacts. Users are advised to download wallpapers from trusted sources to ensure safety.