plugins Archives

Winsage

December 1, 2025

5 Essential Windows Apps Everyone Should Be Using In 2025

Everything is a free application from Voidtools that indexes file and folder names quickly, allowing searches of up to a million files in a minute. It can index mapped network drives and supports Boolean operators and wildcards for advanced search needs. Flow Launcher is an open-source application that serves as a quick launcher and search utility, integrating with Everything for fast file searches and allowing users to open applications, search for files, and perform calculations from a single interface. NanaZip is an open-source archive manager derived from 7-Zip, supporting various archive formats and offering faster processing times, improved encryption, dark mode, and context menu integration. Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities for power users that includes tools like Command Palette, PowerRename, and FancyZones, available for free from the Microsoft Store. Ferdium is an open-source tool that consolidates web applications into a single platform, allowing users to manage multiple web apps within one window, supporting multiple instances of the same app and offering workspace management and a built-in To-do list panel.

Winsage

November 24, 2025

Linux-Inspired File Managers Outpace Windows Explorer in Speed and Features

Microsoft's Windows File Explorer is facing competition from third-party file managers like Files, which is open-source and available for free from the Microsoft Store. Files offers features such as dual-pane views, tabbed browsing, and advanced tagging, making it faster and more customizable than Explorer. Benchmarks show Files loading directories up to 30% faster on average hardware. Despite recent updates to Explorer, it still lacks the innovation found in alternatives. Users are increasingly expressing dissatisfaction with Explorer's bloat, with some preferring alternatives like File Pilot. Linux-inspired managers, including Files, incorporate usability features such as breadcrumb navigation and integrated terminal access, appealing to developers and IT professionals. Open-source alternatives benefit from community oversight, enhancing security and performance. The trend towards these innovative tools may compel Microsoft to rethink Explorer. Additionally, there is a growing convergence of Windows and Linux file management, with Microsoft acknowledging Linux's strengths by integrating Linux files into Explorer. The rise of these alternatives reflects changing user expectations and demands for more customizable and efficient file management solutions.

Winsage

November 10, 2025

9 data-driven ways to finalize your post‑Windows 10 strategy

Approximately 17% of Windows devices within enterprises are still utilizing Windows 10. Organizations can use hardware and firmware data to assess upgrade readiness, map application usage to target extended support investment, assess device health and digital experience, track performance degradation over time, analyze software dependencies, validate pilots with comparable data, investigate post-upgrade failures with diagnostics, automate fixes for common migration blockers, and weigh Windows 11 performance trade-offs. Upgrading to Windows 11 resulted in approximately 7% better disk throughput and lower latency, but also led to a 5% increase in CPU usage and a 7% rise in memory demand.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2025

Reinventing PostgreSQL for the Next Generation of Apps

Enterprises are modernizing their databases due to latency issues, the need for global uptime, and licensing pressures. PostgreSQL is emerging as a preferred alternative to traditional database solutions like Oracle and SAP, focusing on reliability, control, and efficient management of modern workloads, including AI and edge applications. pgEdge, an open-source Postgres vendor, emphasizes that migration to PostgreSQL is about ensuring flexibility and avoiding vendor lock-in. PostgreSQL's governance model, independent of any single company, is a significant advantage, particularly in light of licensing audits and forced upgrades. PostgreSQL has a large developer community and is a mainstream enterprise technology, with tools like pgAdmin widely used. Concerns about operational burdens with open source are addressed by extensions like pgEdge, which enhance PostgreSQL's capabilities for high availability and seamless multi-cloud deployment. pgEdge operationalizes PostgreSQL for distributed use, automating upgrades, backups, and point-in-time recovery, leading to a lower total cost of ownership compared to proprietary models. Modern applications require edge-native databases to operate close to users, reducing latency. pgEdge supports multimaster PostgreSQL across geographically distributed clusters, allowing local read and write capabilities while maintaining data consistency. It builds on PostgreSQL’s logical replication without forking it, ensuring compatibility and consistency. pgEdge facilitates database automation on Kubernetes, managing backups, recovery, and upgrades, making it easier for platform teams. Organizations can start with a simple setup and scale to a multiregion architecture as needed, using the same PostgreSQL stack throughout. pgEdge offers container builds that cater to enterprise needs for geospatial intelligence and AI workflows. As AI applications increasingly run at the edge, pgEdge provides the necessary performance and coherence for edge-native AI. PostgreSQL's SQL compatibility and ACID compliance ease the migration process from systems like Oracle and SAP. The extensive user base across various sectors simplifies hiring PostgreSQL expertise. Combining PostgreSQL with pgEdge offers a strategic modernization pathway for enterprises needing reliable, Kubernetes-native operations and AI-ready extensions, freeing them from vendor lock-in and high licensing costs. This integration transforms PostgreSQL into a globally distributed, cloud-native control plane for data, benefiting architects, CFOs, and developers alike.

Tech Optimizer

October 17, 2025

Android Spyware Threats Surge 147% in 2025: Protect Your Device Now

Android users are facing sophisticated spyware threats, specifically two strains known as ProSpy and ToSpy, which disguise themselves as legitimate applications like updates for Signal and ToTok. These malware types evade detection and steal sensitive information such as messages, contacts, and location data by requesting innocuous permissions. In 2025, spyware detections increased by 147%, with attackers mimicking financial tools and system updates. Google plans to implement a policy requiring app registration to verified developers in 2026 to combat these threats. Experts recommend downloading apps only from the Google Play Store, enabling Play Protect, and using reputable antivirus software. Vigilance against unofficial sources is crucial for protecting personal and professional data. New threats like ClayRat are emerging, further complicating the security landscape.

Winsage

October 14, 2025

10 open-source Windows apps I can’t live without – and they’re all free

Open-source software offers robust alternatives for Windows users, with notable applications including: 1. LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite that supports MS Office formats and is free to download. 2. Flow Launcher: A customizable file search and application launcher that is free to use. 3. Duplicati: A zero-trust backup solution that allows data backup to various destinations, available for free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source platform for file storage and collaboration that can be hosted locally and is free to install. 5. Franz: An application that consolidates multiple messaging platforms into a single interface, free to use. 6. YAZB: A tool that creates custom top bars for Windows, providing system information and quick access controls, available for free. 7. File Converter: A tool for converting and compressing files through a right-click context menu, free to install. 8. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with a web browser extension, free to use with optional paid features. 9. AutoHotKey: An automation scripting language for defining hotkeys and streamlining tasks, available for free. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI application that allows interaction with various models, free to install and use.

Tech Optimizer

October 10, 2025

From infostealer to full RAT: dissecting the PureRAT attack chain

An investigation revealed that a Python-based infostealer campaign led to the deployment of PureRAT, a sophisticated remote access trojan (RAT). The campaign began with a phishing email containing a ZIP archive that included a legitimate PDF reader executable and a malicious DLL. The DLL executed a series of payloads, including a Python info-stealer that harvested sensitive data and exfiltrated it via the Telegram API. The attack progressed to a .NET executable, which employed techniques like process hollowing and evasion tactics to load additional payloads. The final payload, Mhgljosy.dll, was identified as PureRAT, which established an encrypted command-and-control (C2) channel and allowed for extensive control over the compromised host. The C2 server was traced to Vietnam, suggesting a connection to the PXA group. The malware's functionality included host fingerprinting, command execution, and potential access to sensitive information and resources. Indicators of compromise included specific file hashes, registry keys, and IP addresses associated with the C2 server.

Winsage

October 9, 2025

Microsoft confirms Windows 11’s simple text editor “Edit” is now pre-installed

Microsoft has announced the integration of its command-line text editor, Edit, into future versions of its operating system. Windows 11 Build 27965 in the Canary channel features Edit as a default application. Edit is a lightweight command-line interface editor available as an open-source project on GitHub. It can be accessed by typing “edit” in the Windows Terminal, Command Prompt, or PowerShell. Users can open specific files with the command “edit filename.txt.” Edit includes mouse interactions, visible menus, keyboard shortcuts, and features like search functionality and word wrapping. It does not replace Notepad or GUI-based editors, as it lacks features like syntax highlighting. Edit is currently available in Build 27965 for Windows Insider users and can be manually installed via GitHub or Winget.

AppWizard

October 7, 2025

The best MMOs and MMORPGs 2025

Gaming serves as a refuge, a means to connect with others, and a way to forge friendships, particularly through MMOs and MMORPGs. These genres offer expansive realms filled with adventure and the opportunity to interact with fellow gamers. 1. Old School Runescape: Features a skill cap of 99 for all abilities, has a vibrant community, and the recent Varlamore expansion has attracted record player counts. 2. World of Warcraft: Known for its continuous evolution and the latest expansion, "The War Within," which makes the game more accessible for players with limited time. 3. Final Fantasy 14: Transformed from a lackluster launch to a beloved MMORPG, praised for its epic tales and the recent "Dawntrail" expansion. 4. Destiny 2: Offers immersive gameplay and narrative, with the recent "Edge of Fate" expansion improving the onboarding experience for newcomers. 5. Guild Wars 2: Features a horizontal gear progression system and episodic updates, with the upcoming "Visions of Eternity" expansion promising new content. 6. Elder Scrolls Online: Allows players to explore Tamriel's landscapes and engage in combat, with ongoing expansions and content updates. 7. Albion Online: Combines crafting, farming, and PvP action, with the recent "Abyssal Depths" update enhancing PvP elements. 8. Dune Awakening: An MMO-survival hybrid set in an alternate timeline of Arrakis, with the recent "Lost Harvest" DLC adding new cosmetic options. 9. Black Desert Online: Known for stunning visuals and fluid combat, offering a diverse array of classes but can be daunting for newcomers. 10. Lost Ark: Players recover relics in a beautifully crafted world, with recent updates streamlining the onboarding process. 11. Star Wars The Old Republic: Set in the Star Wars universe, featuring various classes and regular updates to keep content fresh. 12. Lord of the Rings Online: Immerses players in Middle-earth with quests and expansions, despite aging graphics. 13. Eve Online: Renowned for its player-driven economy and intricate narratives, featuring massive space battles. 14. New World Aeternum: Blends sandbox survival with RPG mechanics, encouraging character development and exploration. 15. Palia: Focuses on gardening, decorating, and community-building, with recent updates expanding features. Upcoming titles include Chrono Odyssey, promising time-based combat, and Ashes of Creation, currently in playtesting.

AppWizard

October 3, 2025

New Android Spyware Targeting Users by Imitating Signal and ToTok Apps

ESET researchers have identified two Android spyware campaigns targeting users in the UAE, disguised as messaging applications Signal and ToTok. The first spyware family, Android/Spy.ProSpy, poses as upgrades for these apps, while the second, Android/Spy.ToSpy, specifically targets ToTok users. Both malware families were not found on official app stores and were distributed through phishing websites. The ProSpy campaign, active since 2024, uses deceptive sites to offer malicious APK files as enhancements. The ToSpy campaign, identified since mid-2022, targets ToTok backup files and has ongoing operations. Both spyware types collect extensive data, including contacts and SMS messages, and maintain persistent background operations. Google Play Protect offers some defense against these threats, and users are advised to avoid unofficial app installations.