OneDrive storage Archives

Winsage

November 13, 2025

I actually liked Windows 8.1, even though I never had a tablet

In 2012, Microsoft launched Windows 8 to bridge traditional desktop environments and the tablet market, but it received a poor reception, leading to the release of Windows 8.1 a year later to address its shortcomings. Windows 8 aimed to compete with the iPad by transforming tablets into productivity tools. Windows 8.1 introduced features like on-demand OneDrive storage and the ability to snap apps side-by-side, marking a significant evolution in Windows. The concept of Windows RT for ARM processors faced challenges due to hardware limitations and underdeveloped applications but laid the groundwork for devices like the Microsoft Surface. The transition to touchscreen capabilities was revolutionary for users accustomed to older operating systems. The adaptation of the Windows Phone Metro UI for Windows 8 and 8.1 was innovative, despite criticism from traditional PC users. Windows 8.1 developed a dedicated fan base for its tile-based interface, leading to hopes for its return in future devices.

Winsage

October 13, 2025

Time is running out for millions of Windows 10 users, but here’s the 1 trick for a free one-year extension

Microsoft will retire Windows 10, with support ending on October 14. Users will not receive security patches or feature updates after this date, potentially exposing around 240 million Windows 10 users to vulnerabilities. Devices compatible with Windows 11 can upgrade for free, but many older systems may not meet the requirements. Microsoft offers an option for an additional year of support updates, which can be obtained by paying or by backing up data to Microsoft's servers. A free method to secure Extended Security Updates (ESU) involves enrolling through the Settings menu, requiring users to back up their PC settings to Microsoft’s cloud services. The free backup covers only the first 5GB of storage, and exceeding this limit requires purchasing additional cloud storage. Following the enrollment steps allows users to secure an additional 12 months of protection for their Windows 10 PC.

Winsage

September 25, 2025

Microsoft forced to make Windows 10 extended security updates truly free in Europe

Microsoft has announced that extended security updates for Windows 10 will now be available in the European Economic Area (EEA) without requiring users to enable Windows Backup. This change comes as the end of support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14th. Initially, users were required to activate Windows Backup to access an additional year of security updates, but after advocacy from the Euroconsumers group, Microsoft amended its policy. The previous requirement involved a Microsoft Account and OneDrive, which could lead users to exceed the free 5GB storage limit. The revised policy applies only to the EEA, while users in other regions must still enable Windows Backup or pay an annual fee to access the updates. Extended security updates for Windows 10 will continue until October 13th, 2026, and businesses can purchase up to three years of critical security updates. Euroconsumers is also advocating for an extension of security updates beyond one year for individual users.

Winsage

September 8, 2025

Is OneDrive sending all your Windows files to the cloud? Here’s why – and what you can do

When setting up a new Windows PC or completing a feature update, user data files may be relocated to the cloud, particularly when signing in with a Microsoft account on Windows 10 or 11. This creates a OneDrive folder that can lead to confusion regarding file backup, as it differs from traditional backup methods. Users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions receive 1 TB or 100 GB of OneDrive storage, while free accounts only have 5 GB. Adjusting File Explorer settings can result in cluttered views and potential duplication of folders. Users can manage OneDrive folder backup by turning it off completely or using it selectively to stay within storage limits. Microsoft's documentation on OneDrive is noted to be insufficient.

Winsage

September 3, 2025

Fluent design + dual panes = chef’s kiss

Windows 11 has captured 49.08% of the desktop operating system market share, surpassing Windows 10, which holds 45.53%. The File Explorer app has received significant updates, including the introduction of version 4.0, which features a new logo, an Omnibar for navigation and search, a refined Dual Pane mode, improved filtering and search functionalities, integration with various cloud drives, a new Hashes tab for file verification, a Signatures tab for file authenticity, optimized Columns View, a customizable Status Center, and an updated Actions settings page. Additional enhancements include support for new languages, performance improvements, and various fixes addressing previous issues in navigation, layout, shortcuts, and commands.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

Windows 10 Is About To Die For Good – Here Are Your Options

The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, with 56 days remaining. Users can upgrade to Windows 11 for free if their device meets specific requirements, including a 1GHz 64-bit CPU, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and an HD display. Older machines may face compatibility issues due to the need for Secure Boot and TPM version 2.0. An unofficial tool called ‘WhyNotWin11’ can assist with compatibility checks. If upgrading is not feasible, users can buy a new PC, extend Windows 10 updates through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program until October 13, 2026, or choose to do nothing, which poses security risks. Exploring alternative operating systems like macOS or Linux is also an option for those seeking change.

Winsage

August 10, 2025

Windows 10 will die this fall — here’s how to survive

Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025, but users will not lose access to their systems immediately. Microsoft is launching an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing users to receive critical security updates until October 13, 2026, for a fee. Individual users can also access these updates for free by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or by backing up their data using the Windows Backup app and storing it on OneDrive. To upgrade to Windows 11, users should check their PC's compatibility with the PC Health Check app and back up their files before proceeding with the upgrade through the Windows Update app. If a PC does not meet the upgrade requirements, users may need to consider purchasing a new device.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

Microsoft Is Giving Windows 10 Users Free Security Updates for a Year, but There’s a Catch

Microsoft will conclude security support for Windows 10 in October 2025. Users can opt for a one-year extended security update for a fee or utilize a free cloud backup solution linked to their OneDrive accounts. Windows 10 remains the most widely adopted Windows operating system, with over 53% of installations as of May 2025. Microsoft will roll out the Extended Security Updates (ESU) wizard in July 2025, allowing users to enroll and receive updates until October 13, 2026. Businesses can purchase up to three additional years of updates. Users are entitled to 5GB of complimentary OneDrive storage, but backups may exceed this limit, necessitating a paid plan for additional space.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Microsoft Unveils PC-to-PC Migration Tool for Local Transfers as Windows 10 Support Ends in 2025

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11 or purchasing new devices. To address concerns about cloud dependency, Microsoft has introduced a PC-to-PC migration tool that allows users to transfer files, settings, and applications directly from a Windows 10 machine to a Windows 11 device over a local network, without using OneDrive. This tool requires both PCs to be on the same Wi-Fi network and powered on simultaneously. However, it necessitates a Microsoft account for authentication and lacks full support for Arm-based devices. The introduction of this tool appears to be a strategic response to competition and user demand for alternatives to cloud-based solutions.

Winsage

July 12, 2025

Stack years of Microsoft 365 — this deal would have been a bargain in 2013

Microsoft 365 Personal is currently priced at .99 for a one-year subscription, while the Family plan is available for .99. The suite includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with features such as Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Editor, functionalities in Microsoft Teams, Clipchamp, and 1TB of OneDrive storage per user. Earlier this year, Microsoft raised the annual cost of Personal plans from .99 to .99 and Family plans from .99 to 9.99. The latest version includes AI credits and access to Copilot across various applications. Users can stack their Microsoft 365 subscriptions for up to five years to take advantage of discounted rates. To redeem a subscription purchased through platforms like StackSocial, users must visit the Microsoft account services page, sign in, select "Redeem a code or prepaid card," and input the received code.