printers Archives

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows 11 February 2026 Update Is Now Available With 3 New Features

Microsoft has released a non-security feature preview update for Windows 11, designated as version KB5077241, which introduces performance and visual enhancements. This optional update is available for all Windows 11 users and is not yet part of the stable channel, with a full release expected on March 10. Key features of the update include: 1. A built-in network speed test accessible via the taskbar, allowing users to evaluate their network connection's performance. 2. Improvements to the taskbar search function, enabling result previews without opening additional windows. 3. Minor system upgrades, including backup and restore options for select Windows Professional devices, new emojis, an updated accounts menu, a built-in system monitor, and a revamped widgets settings menu. 4. Enhancements to printing services, nearby sharing features, and Windows Update, along with new camera settings for supported devices. 5. Performance improvements in File Explorer, including more reliable window opening using shortcuts and the introduction of an "Extract All" option for non-ZIP archived folders. 6. Optimizations in the Network page of File Explorer for better device display and improvements in display responsiveness after sleep.

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Microsoft Won’t Kill Support For Your Legacy Printer In Windows 11 After All

Microsoft has confirmed that if an older printer is currently functioning within the Windows ecosystem, it will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The company clarified that it has not ended support for legacy printer drivers, despite earlier indications that V3 and V4 drivers would no longer be supported starting in January. However, as of January 15, 2026, new legacy drivers will be approved on a case-by-case basis for Windows Update.

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows Could Be the Reason Your Printer Refuses to Cooperate

Microsoft has phased out support for older V3 and V4 printer drivers in Windows 11, marking them as deprecated since September 2023. While printers using these drivers will still function, they will no longer receive automatic updates through Windows Update, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues. User feedback is mixed, with some appreciating the move towards modern driver architecture and others concerned about manufacturers' ability to adapt.

Winsage

February 21, 2026

HP Smart App On Windows: Setup & Troubleshooting

The HP Smart app is a software application designed to enhance interaction with HP printers, allowing users to print, scan, copy, and manage their printers from a computer or mobile device. The installation process on Windows involves downloading the app from the Microsoft Store, installing it, launching it, and adding the printer. Common issues include the app not finding the printer, crashing or freezing, scanning difficulties, and printing problems, with various troubleshooting solutions provided for each issue. Tips for maximizing the app's functionality include using mobile fax, editing photos, printing from social media, and utilizing cloud printing. Keeping the app up-to-date is important for performance and security, with options for automatic and manual updates available through the Microsoft Store and HP support.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

The New Windows Update Discontinued Support For A Bunch Of Popular Printers

Microsoft has decided to discontinue support for V3 and V4 printer drivers as part of its Windows 11 updates. Printers using these drivers will continue to function, but lack of updates may lead to future support challenges. Starting January 2026, Microsoft will stop distributing new drivers for V3 and V4 models through Windows Update. User feedback has been mostly positive, with some expressing relief at the focus on modern architecture, while concerns remain about reliance on printer manufacturers for driver updates.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2026

How to Install McAfee Antivirus on Windows 11 or 10

Installing third-party antivirus software like McAfee on Windows 11 can be challenging due to the built-in Windows Security, which can complicate the installation process. Users may face issues such as silent failures from conflicting software, permission problems on restricted machines, or restrictions due to S Mode on new laptops. Windows 11 includes Windows Security, which is effective for malware protection, but McAfee may be necessary for compliance, additional features, or centralized protection for multiple devices. McAfee supports Windows 11 Home, Pro, and Education editions but not Enterprise. The minimum hardware requirements include a processor of 1 GHz or faster, at least 2 GB of RAM (4 GB recommended), 1.3 GB of free disk space, an internet connection for download and updates, and a display resolution of at least 1024×768. McAfee requires a persistent internet connection for activation and updates. Before installing McAfee, users should check if their device is in S Mode, as McAfee cannot be installed in this mode. They must remove any existing antivirus software completely, as leftover files can interfere with the installation. Users should also ensure that Windows 11 is up to date and verify that there is enough disk space available. To download McAfee, users should go directly to the McAfee trial page to avoid scams. After downloading, they need to run the installer and restart their computer after installation. Users should then activate McAfee, run a manual update, and conduct a full system scan. Common installation problems include freezes during download, errors due to S Mode, and issues with Windows Security not recognizing McAfee as the active antivirus. Users can verify that McAfee is functioning correctly by checking the system tray icon, Windows Security settings, and the McAfee dashboard. To uninstall McAfee, users should go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, select McAfee, and follow the prompts to remove it. After uninstallation, Windows Security will reactivate automatically. McAfee offers several plans for Windows users, including Basic, Essential, Premium, and Advanced, each with different features and device limits. The Basic plan is suitable for single-device users without additional needs, while families may benefit from the Essential or Premium plans.

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Microsoft changes how it manages MILLIONS of old printers

Microsoft has stopped distributing V3 and V4 printer drivers through Windows Update as of last month, affecting printers up to 12 years old. Support for these drivers will end in January 2026, as they were marked as deprecated in September 2023. Users with printers relying on these drivers may experience functionality issues after support ends. Printer manufacturers are now responsible for providing driver updates via their websites, but existing drivers will remain operational. Microsoft confirmed that vendor-supplied drivers can still be installed using separate packages. Most modern printers do not use V3 and V4 drivers, as they are typically over a decade old. Microsoft aims to enhance system security and streamline the printing process by phasing out outdated drivers. After July 2026, Windows will prioritize built-in printer drivers during installation, and from July 2027, manufacturers will no longer be able to submit driver updates to Windows, although Microsoft will continue to provide critical security updates for existing drivers.

Winsage

February 12, 2026

I unlocked God Mode in Windows 11 with this text string – here’s what it does

God Mode in Windows 11 consolidates essential settings into a single interface, allowing users to access various options such as Backup and Restore, Color Management, Devices and Printers, Ease of Access, File History, Mouse settings, Power Options, Programs and Features, Security and Maintenance, Speech Recognition, Troubleshooting, and User Accounts. To set up God Mode, users need to right-click on the desktop, select New, and then choose Folder, using a specific folder name code. This feature enhances productivity and allows for customization of the Windows experience.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

Ultimate Best Android Fax Apps Guide for Users

In 2026, faxing remains prevalent in industries like healthcare, real estate, and law, despite advancements in technology. Modern Android fax applications have replaced bulky fax machines, allowing users to send documents quickly by snapping photos or uploading PDFs. These apps offer features such as digital signatures, cloud storage, and security measures, making them ideal for travelers and remote workers. The Municorn Android Fax App is highlighted for its HIPAA compliance and user-friendly interface. Over 30% of healthcare providers still use faxing to meet compliance requirements, with businesses sending billions of pages annually. Modern fax apps eliminate issues like jammed paper trays and busy signals, enabling users to send documents from various locations. A small clinic reported saving hours weekly by using on-site scanning instead of visiting a fax center. Seven top Android fax apps for 2026 include Municorn Fax App, Fax.Plus, iFax, eFax, Simple Fax, Genius Fax, and Tiny Fax, each with unique features catering to different user needs. Many apps now incorporate AI for scan quality improvement and offer Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for searchable text. Security is crucial, especially for compliance, and users are advised to check for HIPAA compliance when handling sensitive information.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

Microsoft releases 2026’s first Insider build of Windows 11

The latest Insider build of Windows 11, KB5072046, updates the operating system to build 26220.7535 and is available to Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels. A significant enhancement is the new Narrator feature powered by Copilot, which allows users to generate AI-driven descriptions for images. This feature is not available in the European Economic Area due to regulatory restrictions. Users can press Narrator key + Ctrl + D to describe a focused image or Narrator key + Ctrl + S for a full screen description. Microsoft has also introduced a policy for system administrators to uninstall the Microsoft Copilot App under specific conditions, applicable to Enterprise, Pro, and EDU SKUs. Various fixes have been implemented, including resolving issues with the Start menu, File Explorer, input using the Snipping Tool, print dialogs, and Windows Update settings.