partitions Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

5 reasons I stopped dual-booting Windows and Linux on my PC

The author currently uses Windows 11 on most devices due to the lack of Linux alternatives for certain creative applications. They previously engaged in dual-booting Linux and Windows but have shifted away from this practice due to time and data management concerns. Storage issues were a significant challenge, particularly with drive partitioning on laptops. The author finds virtual machines (VMs) and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to be more accessible and practical solutions for their needs. They also mention that Windows 11's Secure Boot complicates dual-boot setups and that Windows updates often overwrite the GRUB bootloader, risking data integrity. Additionally, using BitLocker with GRUB can lead to complications. Ultimately, the author prefers a single operating system per device for a simpler and more efficient experience.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Microsoft’s ReFS file system resurfaces in latest Windows 11 build

Microsoft's Resilient File System (ReFS) was introduced in 2012 with Windows Server 2012 and has been relatively obscure compared to NTFS. It has recently emerged as an optional feature in a preview build of Windows 11 (Build 27823), allowing users to format partitions with a "Flexible Storage" option, offering a choice between NTFS and ReFS. ReFS is designed for larger storage capacities, can format partitions up to 35 petabytes, and supports single files as large as the entire volume. It includes advanced features like block cloning and file-level snapshots but lacks support for certain NTFS functionalities such as bootable volumes and file compression. Currently, ReFS is primarily aimed at enterprise and server environments, but its inclusion in Windows 11 may indicate plans for broader consumer access. The open-source community is developing unofficial documentation for ReFS, and Paragon Software has created a closed-source ReFS driver.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

5 reasons why GParted is better than any Windows alternative for partition management

GParted is a free and open-source partition management tool available on Linux, allowing users to boot directly from a flash drive without installation. It supports over a dozen file systems, including HFS, HFS+, BTRFS, and F2FS, providing versatility beyond Windows' Disk Management, which is limited to NTFS, exFAT, and FAT32. GParted enables users to manage partition flags easily, a feature not available in Windows. While it does not offer direct partition recovery options, users can use the Terminal in GParted Live to execute disk tests for locating lost partitions. GParted can run from a live USB across multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it a flexible choice for partition management. It allows users to shrink partitions, create new ones, and recover lost partitions and files, although it is recommended for users comfortable with partition management.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

4 reasons to use multiple partitions on a Windows PC

Windows users can enhance their PCs by partitioning their drives, which allows for multiple operating systems and improves data management and security. Creating a dedicated data partition protects personal files during Windows reinstallation, while a smaller Windows partition simplifies recovery after crashes. Partitioning enables users to run different versions of Windows or Linux in a dual-boot setup. For sensitive information, creating an encrypted partition with tools like BitLocker ensures data security. The practice of partitioning remains relevant, offering benefits such as better organization and security, though it may also present challenges like vulnerability to malware and inefficient space use.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

How to transfer your Windows 11 setup to a new hard drive — no extra app required

Users of Windows 11 may need to upgrade their hard drive due to space constraints or the drive nearing the end of its lifespan, typically within three to five years. They can create a system image backup using the Backup and Restore feature in Windows 11. To create a system image, users must access the Control Panel, navigate to System and Security, and select "Create a system image." The backup can be saved on a hard disk, and users can choose to include additional drives. To create a USB bootable media for recovery, users should visit the Windows 11 download page, download the Media Creation Tool, and follow the prompts to create a USB flash drive. Replacing the hard drive involves powering down the computer, removing the cover, disconnecting cables, and installing the new drive. After installation, users can restore the previous Windows 11 installation from the system image backup by booting from the USB drive and selecting "System Image Recovery." If the new drive has unallocated space, users can create a new partition or expand the existing setup partition. To create a data partition, users can access Settings, navigate to Storage, and create a new volume from unallocated space. To expand the setup partition, users must delete the recovery partition, extend the installation drive, and recreate the recovery partition using Command Prompt and Disk Management. Finally, users should re-enable BitLocker after completing these processes.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

6 reasons Hyper-V is the best hypervisor on Windows

Virtualization technology is essential in modern IT infrastructure, allowing the creation of virtual machines (VMs) for various applications. Hyper-V is Microsoft's primary hypervisor for Windows Pro, Enterprise, or Windows Server users. It has been available since Server 2008 and provides tools for efficient VM creation, management, and monitoring. Hyper-V integrates natively with Windows, ensuring compatibility and simplifying VM management through the Hyper-V Manager interface. It is optimized for Windows, enhancing performance and security by utilizing features like Secure Boot and BitLocker. Hyper-V supports large-scale deployments and can configure multiple VMs for demanding workloads. It also allows users to create Linux VMs, such as Ubuntu, easily using the "Quick Create" feature. Hyper-V is a built-in, free hypervisor for Windows, requiring no additional costs beyond the Windows Pro license. Its integration, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness make it a leading choice for virtualization among average users and IT administrators.

Tech Optimizer

February 27, 2025

What’s New in Postgres Pro Enterprise 17: From Proxima to Intelligent Data Management

Proxima integrates connection pooling, query proxying, and load balancing into the Postgres Pro Enterprise DBMS, enhancing efficiency and minimizing latency. It establishes multiple connections for client sessions, optimizes resource usage, and alleviates server burdens. Proxima redirects client queries to the leader node in a BiHA cluster, automating cluster topology management. Load balancing is under development to prevent overload on replicas. The pgpro_queue extension facilitates asynchronous message processing directly within the database, ensuring transactionality, prioritization, filtering, and reliable message storage. Postgres Pro 17 Enterprise introduces enhanced query plan management tools, including the pgpro_multiplan extension for storing multiple execution plans and a query registration assistant for managing queries. Adaptive Query Execution (AQE) and Adaptive Query Optimization (AQO Enterprise) improve complex query execution by dynamically rescheduling long-running queries and correcting planner errors based on execution history. Security enhancements include the pgpro_usage extension for tracking database object usage and identifying unnecessary access rights. The pgpro_ilm extension automates storage optimization by relocating rarely accessed data and compressing it. Infrastructure improvements include BiHA enhancements, multimaster support, and improved management of partitioned tables, along with the updated PPEM 2.0 for better UI and automatic instance tuning.

Winsage

December 12, 2024

Why do you continue using Windows 11?

Users are exploring alternatives to the default File Explorer on Windows 11, with OneCommander being a popular choice. Other options include Total Commander and Directory Opus. The recent release of Windows 11 version 24H2 includes new features like sudo support. Microsoft’s OneDrive integration has received mixed reactions, particularly regarding automatic backups. Many users are upgrading their gaming PCs to at least 16GB of RAM, with 32GB being preferred for modern gaming. Consumer-grade CPUs now commonly feature 16 cores and 32 threads. The Google Pixel Watch 2 has gained attention for its design and fitness tracking. Firefox is often the first app installed on new systems, followed by gaming platforms like Steam. Users are encouraged to maintain regular hardware updates, including BIOS settings. Drive partitioning preferences vary, with some users favoring multiple partitions for data safety. Greenshot is a favored tool for capturing screenshots among content creators. Intel has announced the Core Ultra Series 2 platform, codenamed Lunar Lake, which aims to enhance performance and battery life.

Winsage

December 1, 2024

Rainmeter is an impressive Windows customization tool

Users are exploring alternatives to the default File Explorer in Windows 11, with OneCommander being a popular choice among enthusiasts. Various recommendations from the community include Total Commander and Directory Opus. A user experienced burn-in on their QD-OLED monitor after using a static image for a year but found relief by switching to dynamic wallpaper. They appreciate QD-OLED technology and plan to upgrade to a newer generation panel. The Linux ecosystem features numerous distributions, with the user rotating between NixOS, Pop_OS!, Debian, and Q4OS based on their needs. A user transformed an outdated dual-Xeon CPU and motherboard into a home lab and budget gaming system, highlighting its versatility. Despite being a professional writer, the user relies on four fingers for typing and feels retraining could hinder productivity. Their first laptop was a Dell Inspiron 8500, which sparked their interest in technology. Microsoft’s OneDrive integration in Windows 11 has mixed reviews, with some users disabling automatic backups for a cleaner workspace. The gradual rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 has not introduced significant changes, leading some users to wait for broader adoption. A Discord server dedicated to co-working has helped one user maintain productivity while working from home. The challenge of non-repairable tech is noted, with companies like Framework promoting sustainability through repairable products. Opinions on drive partitioning vary, with some advocating for multiple partitions while others prefer a single partition for simplicity. Casual gaming with Vampire Survivors has become a favorite for low-stress gameplay. The need for RAM in gaming PCs is increasing, with 16GB being standard and 32GB ideal for many users. The user was motivated to build their first PC for better gaming performance, inspired by the original Titanfall game. They transformed an old PC into a smart home hub using Home Assistant, enhancing device management. Obsidian is being explored for running tabletop RPGs, showcasing its versatility. The user transitioned from the unreliable Snipping Tool to Greenshot for capturing screenshots. Odd-length M.2 drives are noted as scarce in consumer markets despite the rise of smaller NVMe SSDs. The user is exploring alternative browsers like Floorp and Vivaldi after years of using Chrome.

Winsage

November 30, 2024

9 Windows utilities every power user should know about

Windows 11 includes various tools for system management, catering to both novice and advanced users. 1. Task Manager: Allows users to manage applications, monitor CPU, RAM, and disk usage, manage startup applications, and create memory dump files for troubleshooting. 2. Device Manager: Helps resolve hardware issues by identifying malfunctioning components, rolling back problematic drivers, and manually installing drivers. 3. Resource Monitor: Provides detailed graphs of CPU, disk, and memory usage, along with specific process details for diagnosing performance issues. 4. System Configuration: Useful for booting into Safe Mode for diagnostics and troubleshooting driver-related issues. 5. Task Scheduler: Automates tasks based on triggers, allowing users to launch programs simultaneously and set up recurring tasks. 6. Windows Terminal: A powerful interface for power users that provides access to system maintenance tools and allows application installation and user account management. 7. Registry Editor: Enables advanced users to modify system settings that are otherwise inaccessible, with caution advised due to potential system instability. 8. Event Viewer: Monitors system events, logs blue screen errors (BSODs), and provides critical information for diagnosing system failures. 9. Disk Management: Oversees connected drives and manages partitions, allowing users to create, delete, format volumes, and attach virtual hard drives.