Proton Archives

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Three ways to run Windows apps on a Linux box

If you're transitioning to Linux and need to run Windows applications, you have several options, including dual-booting, using a virtual machine (VM), or employing a compatibility layer like WINE. For virtualization, VirtualBox is a popular open-source choice, while VMware is another option that has been free since late 2024. Both require a Windows ISO, which can be obtained for free from Microsoft. VirtualBox suggests allocating 2GB of RAM and one processor core, but 8GB of RAM and two cores are recommended for better performance. Running a VM requires significant resources, and a valid Windows license is necessary for the guest OS. Dual-booting allows both Windows and Linux to run natively, providing full hardware access and optimal performance. WINE translates Windows application calls into Linux commands and is included in most Linux distributions. Its effectiveness varies by application. Bottles is a user-friendly wrapper around WINE that simplifies installation. For enhanced compatibility, CodeWeavers CrossOver is a premium alternative to WINE, with a free evaluation version available. For gaming, Lutris and Valve’s Proton are tools that facilitate running Windows games on Linux.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

The best password managers for Android of 2025: Expert tested

Safeguarding personal information like login credentials and credit card details is crucial for Android users, and a password manager is essential for generating and securely storing strong, unique passwords. Bitwarden is highlighted as the best free password manager due to its open-source nature and robust encryption, allowing unlimited credential syncing across devices. It features autofill, secure note storage, a password generator, encrypted sharing, biometric unlock, and passkey support. 1Password is recommended for its user-friendly interface and security features, offering a library of over 20 credential types, autofill capabilities, and a feature called Watchtower for security alerts. It requires a subscription after a 14-day trial. Keeper is noted for its user-friendly onboarding process and enterprise-level security, accommodating various record types and offering features like account recovery and offline access, but it may be less appealing for budget-conscious users. Proton Pass, an open-source option from the creators of Proton VPN and Proton Mail, emphasizes privacy and offers features like password health alerts and hide-my-email aliases, although it currently lacks some functionalities of more established managers. Overall, Bitwarden is the top choice for cost-effective password management, while 1Password is recognized for its user experience.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

Sorry, Windows. Lenovo’s Legion Go S runs better with SteamOS

Lenovo's Legion Go S gaming handheld is the first device from the manufacturer to support both Windows and SteamOS. The SteamOS Edition has been recently released, allowing for performance comparisons with the Windows version. Both versions have identical specifications, including an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, 16GB of RAM, and an 8-inch 1200p display. The SteamOS version performs 5-15 percent faster in running games and has superior battery life, outperforming the Windows edition significantly in both low-power and demanding games. The base launch price of the SteamOS Edition is 9, influenced by import taxes, while the Windows version retails for 9. More powerful configurations are available for 9 and 9 for SteamOS and Windows versions, respectively, but the SteamOS variant is labeled as “Coming Soon” at Best Buy.

Winsage

May 26, 2025

In an embarrassment for Microsoft, SteamOS seems to destroy Windows 11 on gaming performance and battery life, as well as usability

Early comparisons between SteamOS and Windows 11 on identical hardware show that SteamOS offers significantly better gaming performance, particularly in battery life. The Lenovo Legion Go S, when running SteamOS, provides over six hours of gameplay on 2D games like Dead Cells, while the Windows version only achieves 2.75 hours. Despite Windows 11's compatibility with various gaming platforms, it has faced criticism for performance issues and unnecessary features. Windows holds a dominant market share of about 70% in desktop operating systems, but the rise of SteamOS may challenge this position.

Winsage

May 15, 2025

Microsoft App Assure helps Nord Security build for Windows on Arm

Developers are focusing on optimizing applications for the newly launched Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced system architecture, all-day battery life, and the ability to run AI models directly on the device. The initial Copilot+ PCs are powered by Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus silicon, with AMD and Intel also introducing compatible processors. Microsoft’s App Assure Program provides guidance and technical support to help developers optimize applications for these devices, particularly for Arm-based Snapdragon X Series devices. NordVPN is a notable example of a company that successfully utilized the App Assure program to develop an Arm-optimized version of their application. The program includes the Arm Advisory Service, which allows developers to consult with Microsoft engineers for a smoother development process. Other companies, such as Proton VPN and F-Secure, have also benefited from the App Assure team in optimizing their applications for the Windows on Arm platform.

Winsage

May 10, 2025

5 features I wish Microsoft would turn off by default on Windows 11

Microsoft's Windows 10 and 11 include features that some users find cumbersome, such as OneDrive, which is integrated but not preferred by all users. OneDrive automatically backs up default system folders during setup and offers only 15GB of storage without a Microsoft 365 subscription. Users can disable OneDrive through Computer Configuration settings. The Widgets feature, particularly the News widget, can interrupt workflow and can be disabled via Settings. The Start menu includes recommendations that some users view as advertisements, which can be turned off in Settings. Windows also has several applications set to run at startup by default, which can slow down boot times; users can manage these through Settings or Task Manager. Additionally, Windows collects diagnostic data, which raises privacy concerns, but users can opt out by adjusting settings in Privacy & Security.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

Winhance is the best free and open-source tool to customize and optimize your Windows 11 install

Winhance is a free, open-source application designed to enhance the Windows 11 experience by allowing users to debloat, optimize, and customize their systems. It originated as a PowerShell script and simplifies the installation and customization process for Windows users. Winhance is compatible with certain long-term servicing channel versions of Windows 10 until support ends in October 2025. The application provides an overview of available applications and features for installation or removal, enabling users to uninstall unnecessary Windows apps like Bing search, Copilot, and Microsoft Edge. It also offers alternative browsers such as Brave and DuckDuckGo. The main interface is intuitive, allowing users to easily identify and remove Microsoft applications. While it includes basic customization options, it lacks some popular open-source alternatives but offers storage and security applications like Proton VPN and Proton Drive. Users can initiate the installation process by selecting desired applications and features, and the removal of unwanted features is straightforward. The efficiency of these operations varies based on the number of items selected, but user feedback indicates a responsive process.

Winsage

April 30, 2025

5 steps I took for a successful in-place upgrade of my 6-year-old PC from Windows 10 to 11

Windows 11 was released in October 2021. A user upgraded from Windows 10 22H2 to Windows 11 24H2 on a six-year-old HP Omen using an in-place upgrade. They backed up important files using OneDrive, Proton Drive, and a 4 TB external drive. The hardware was checked for compatibility with Windows 11 using Microsoft’s support page and the PC Health Check app. The user decluttered the system using Disk Cleanup and Revo Uninstaller. A system restore point was created for safety before the upgrade. The upgrade was initiated through Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant, and it proceeded smoothly, allowing the user to keep files and applications.

BetaBeacon

April 27, 2025

What is Steam: The popular gaming platform explained

Steam is a platform and app for distributing video games online that also has social media features and community message boards.

Winsage

April 13, 2025

5 awesome Linux features that will blow the mind of a Windows user

In 2025, Linux is becoming a viable alternative for desktop and laptop users, previously overshadowed by Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS. Recent advancements in user-friendly distributions like Ubuntu and Linux Mint have made Linux more accessible, allowing users to operate without needing to engage with the command-line interface (CLI). Proton, a tool developed by Valve, enables users to play a wide range of games on Linux without the need for dual-boot setups. Modern Linux distributions have become stable and customizable, providing a reliable user experience. Linux powers a significant portion of the world's servers, showcasing its versatility and reliability. It is completely free and open-source, allowing users to explore different distributions without cost. Many distributions offer a live environment for users to test the OS without altering their existing systems.