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12 Ways To Make Windows 11 Run Faster
Winsage
February 16, 2025

12 Ways To Make Windows 11 Run Faster

Windows is a dominant operating system known for its affordability and software compatibility, but users often face performance issues. To enhance performance on Windows 11, users can: 1. Restart the device weekly and ensure it is up-to-date to resolve bugs and improve security. 2. Disable unnecessary startup applications via Settings > Apps > Startup or Task Manager. 3. Use Task Manager to monitor and terminate resource-hungry applications. 4. Uninstall unnecessary pre-installed software using tools like Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller. 5. Upgrade hardware by installing an SSD or adding RAM for better performance. 6. Regularly scan for malware using Windows Security to maintain system health. 7. Adjust power settings to "Best Performance" under Settings > System > Power & battery > Power Mode. 8. Free up disk space using built-in tools like Storage Sense or by manually deleting old files. 9. Disable unnecessary visual effects via Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects or Control Panel. 10. Pause OneDrive or other cloud storage services to reduce resource consumption during intensive tasks. 11. Disable File Explorer search indexing if frequent searches are not needed. 12. Use the system restore feature to revert to a previous state if performance issues persist.
If you installed Windows 11 with certain security updates and a USB stick, you may not get any more security updates warns Microsoft
Winsage
February 7, 2025

If you installed Windows 11 with certain security updates and a USB stick, you may not get any more security updates warns Microsoft

Users who installed Windows 11 via media files from the October or November updates are unable to access future security updates. This issue was reported on December 24, 2024, and resolved on February 6, 2025. A fresh installation of the operating system is required to remedy the situation. Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 at the end of this year, increasing the urgency for users to upgrade. A new workaround allows installation on devices that do not meet hardware requirements, but a clean reinstall is necessary for those who used tools like Rufus or Flyby11. Users should download the latest version of Windows 11 for installation, which does not require the removal of personal files. Prompt action is advised to avoid complications from postponed updates.
Remove These 12 Android Apps Now—They’re Secretly Capturing Your Conversations
AppWizard
February 4, 2025

Remove These 12 Android Apps Now—They’re Secretly Capturing Your Conversations

Some Android applications are covertly monitoring conversations and collecting personal data without user consent. Cybersecurity firm ESET identified six malicious apps on Google Play and another six on third-party app stores that disguise themselves as legitimate messaging platforms. These apps harvest data such as text messages, call logs, and recorded conversations. Hackers also employ tactics like creating fake romantic connections to persuade victims to download infected apps, such as those containing the VajraSpy Trojan, which records conversations and accesses personal files. Three groups of dangerous apps include: 1. Messaging apps disguised as secure platforms (e.g., Hello Chat, MeetMe, Chit Chat) that steal contact information and SMS messages. 2. Apps exploiting accessibility features (e.g., Wave Chat) that can intercept messages and record phone calls. 3. A fake news app that seeks access to personal data without messaging capabilities. A list of malicious apps includes: Rafaqat, Privee Talk, MeetMe, Let’s Chat, Quick Chat, Chit Chat, YohooTalk, TikTalk, Hello Chat, Nidus, GlowChat, and Wave Chat. Six of these apps were downloaded over 1,400 times each before being removed from Google Play. To protect privacy, users are advised to uninstall suspicious apps, change passwords, enable two-factor authentication, run security scans, and stay informed about cybersecurity threats.
Microsoft recommends a 15-year-old tool for Windows 10 and 11
Winsage
December 23, 2024

Microsoft recommends a 15-year-old tool for Windows 10 and 11

Microsoft has recommended the use of "Backup and Restore (Windows 7)," a tool that has been around for over 15 years, despite officially discontinuing support for it with the release of Windows 10 version 1709. This recommendation highlights the persistence of legacy features in Windows, as the tool remains functional for restoring systems from older versions of Windows to newer ones. Modern backup options from Microsoft, such as System Restore, File History, and System Protection, have significant limitations, leading to fragmented solutions for users. The coexistence of outdated tools with newer interfaces creates inconsistencies and mixed messages from Microsoft regarding backup solutions. Users considering Backup and Restore (Windows 7) should be cautious, as it is no longer being developed and may not perform reliably on modern operating systems. Third-party backup tools are suggested as more dependable alternatives.
Alt Tab causes low FPS in games on PC [Fix]
Winsage
December 5, 2024

Alt Tab causes low FPS in games on PC [Fix]

The Alt-Tab keyboard shortcut is widely used for navigating between applications on Windows computers, but gamers have reported a drop in frames per second (FPS) when using it during gameplay. To address low FPS when using Alt-Tab on Windows 10 or 11, users can consider the following solutions: 1. Adjust system settings for best performance by accessing the Settings menu, navigating to System > About, and selecting Adjust for best performance in the Performance section. 2. Disable unnecessary startup apps and the weather widget using Task Manager. 3. Troubleshoot in a Clean Boot state to identify any third-party background services causing the issue. 4. Perform a clean installation of the graphics card driver using the Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) tool. 5. Uninstall any recent Windows updates that may have caused performance issues. 6. Reset the PC to factory default settings while keeping personal files, ensuring to back up important data beforehand. Alt-Tabbing itself is not detrimental, but a lack of smoothness may be due to insufficient RAM, which can be monitored via Task Manager. Closing unnecessary background applications may help improve performance.
Major Windows 11 fails make Microsoft’s ‘Fix problems using Windows Update’ tool more useful than ever – but it might not work for you
Winsage
December 5, 2024

Major Windows 11 fails make Microsoft’s ‘Fix problems using Windows Update’ tool more useful than ever – but it might not work for you

Microsoft has introduced a new tool called ‘Fix problems using Windows Update’ in Windows 11, designed to help users reinstall the current version of Windows without needing a DVD or product key. This tool allows for the reinstallation while preserving apps, files, and settings, and can be accessed through Settings > System > Recovery. It is available only for users with Windows 11 version 22H2 or newer, along with the February 2024 optional update. Users on older versions of Windows 11 or Windows 10 will not have access to this feature.
Rainmeter is an impressive Windows customization tool
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.
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