Recycle Bin Archives

Winsage

May 8, 2025

How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files on Windows 10/11 with/without Backup

Data loss can occur due to human error, software malfunctions, hardware failures, system crashes, and issues with cloud storage services. Immediate recovery methods include restoring files from the Recycle Bin, using the Undo Delete feature, and utilizing the File History feature. For recovery with a backup, methods include restoring files via Google Drive and using the Windows Backup & Restore feature. For permanently deleted files without a backup, options include using free data recovery software and the Windows built-in app. Tips to prevent file deletion include enabling the Recycle Bin and File History, using cloud storage for backups, double-checking before deletion, considering third-party backup tools, and safeguarding against malware.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

How to browse your Android storage on Windows 11 without any USB cables

The latest update to Windows 11 allows Android users to wirelessly access their device's storage directly from File Explorer. To connect an Android device to Windows 11, users need to enable access in the Settings app, download the Link to Windows app if prompted, and confirm the connection using a QR code and verification code. Once connected, users can browse their Android storage through File Explorer, view storage usage, and access various folders like Cameras, Documents, and more. The recycle bin on the Android device will display deleted files for up to 30 days.

Winsage

April 16, 2025

Don’t Delete This Empty Folder on Windows 11

The "inetpub" folder, which appeared after the latest Patch Tuesday update on Windows 11, is part of a security enhancement addressing the CVE-2025-21204 vulnerability that could allow attackers to modify system files. Users are advised not to delete this folder, as it contributes to increased protection. If deleted, it can be restored by navigating to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features, selecting "Turn Windows features on or off," checking the box next to Internet Information Services, and clicking OK. This process recreates the folder with the same security protections.

Winsage

April 8, 2025

HOW TO: Find Large Files on Your Windows Laptop

Running low on storage space on a Windows PC can slow down the system. File Explorer has search filters to help identify large files. To find large files, open File Explorer (Windows + E), select a folder or drive, and use search terms like size:gigantic for files over 4GB, size:huge for files between 1-4GB, or size:large for files from 128MB to 1GB. You can combine filters for specific file types, such as .mov size:>300MB or .exe size:>100MB. To delete files, right-click and select delete, which sends them to the recycle bin.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Your PC’s Windows install needs spring cleaning too. Here’s how to do it

- Regular maintenance of a PC is essential, especially during seasonal changes. - Uninstall unnecessary programs by accessing the Windows 11 Start menu, reviewing installed applications, and selecting Uninstall. - Specialized uninstall tools like Revo Uninstaller or Iobit Uninstaller can help remove leftover files and registry entries after standard uninstallation. - Unused Windows apps and features can be removed using Powershell commands or the freeware version of CCleaner. - Windows has a built-in cleaning service called "Storage Sense" that can be activated in Settings > System > Storage to manage unnecessary files automatically. - The Disk Cleanup tool can be accessed by typing cleanmgr in the search field to target temporary files and the recycle bin. - Software like Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro can help find and delete duplicate photos in large collections. - To reset Windows 11, navigate to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC, with an option to keep existing files or perform a complete reinstall.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

How to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why it’s important to do so)

To optimize your Windows computer's performance, ensure your operating system is fully updated. If updates are current, utilize built-in utilities to reclaim disk space. For Windows 11, access "Cleanup recommendations" by clicking the Start button, selecting Settings, navigating to System, and then Storage. This feature lists temporary files in your Downloads folder and Recycle Bin, which can be deleted to free up space. It also recommends removing large or unused files. Use the Disk Cleanup utility by searching for "Disk Cleanup" in the search bar to identify and delete temporary internet files, setup log files, and cache files. To clear your PC's location cache, go to Settings, select Privacy and Security, scroll to "Location history," and click "Clear." To flush the DNS cache, press the Windows key + R, type ipconfig/flushdns, and press Enter. Regular file management and cleanup can significantly enhance system performance over time.

Tech Optimizer

March 7, 2025

Webroot Premium

PCMag editors independently select and review products. Webroot Premium combines device-level protection with identity theft tracking and remediation, but its antivirus protection is limited compared to competitors. Webroot Premium costs .99 per year for five devices and one identity, with a family edition available for .99 covering ten devices and identities. Other competitors like Bitdefender Ultimate Security and Norton 360 With LifeLock offer more comprehensive features at similar price points. Webroot AntiVirus has been rebranded as Webroot Essentials, and older versions have been phased out. The installation process for Webroot Premium is straightforward, and it includes a firewall that monitors network activity. Webroot's antivirus effectively identifies malware, achieving a 100% detection rate in tests. It also offers a secure deletion tool and basic identity protection features, including credit monitoring, transaction monitoring, and dark web monitoring, though these features are less comprehensive than those of competitors. Webroot provides 24/7 support for identity restoration, with a monetary guarantee for remediation services up to million for ten family members. Overall, while Webroot Premium offers solid antivirus protection, its identity protection capabilities are limited compared to other security suites.

Winsage

March 4, 2025

How to Manually Clean Your Windows PC

Many Windows PC users experience sluggish performance due to storage overload, which can be exacerbated by ineffective automated solutions like Storage Sense. A manual cleanup can help target specific files consuming storage space. The steps for manual cleanup include: 1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. 2. Type "cleanmgr" and hit Enter or "OK" to open the Disk Cleanup tool. 3. Check the boxes for "Temporary Files," "Recycle Bin," and "System Cache" (or any other unnecessary files). 4. Click "OK," then select "Delete Files" to confirm. Following these steps can improve PC performance, leading to faster boot times, smoother browsing, and increased available storage. Additional optimization measures include uninstalling unused applications, deleting duplicate files, and transferring large files to external drives or cloud storage.

Winsage

March 2, 2025

Microsoft now offers a free tool for Windows 10 and 11 users to refresh their PCs

Microsoft has introduced a free, built-in tool called PC Manager for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users, aimed at optimizing system performance without the need for third-party software. After a successful launch in China, PC Manager is now available globally. Key features include: - PC Boost: Automatically clears temporary files, reduces RAM usage, and shuts down unnecessary background processes. Smart Boost identifies and removes files over 1GB. - Deep Cleanup: Targets outdated system files, browser caches, and the recycle bin to free up storage and improve performance. - Startup Management: Allows users to manage and disable unnecessary startup applications to enhance boot speed. - Process Management: Provides an intuitive interface to identify and terminate resource-hogging processes easily. - Large Files Locator: Helps users identify oversized files for better disk space management. PC Manager is currently available in multiple languages and is expected to expand further, with plans for future updates based on user feedback.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

How to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn’t wait to do it)

For a digital refresh on a cluttered desktop and sluggish performance, users should keep their Windows operating system updated and utilize built-in utilities to enhance performance. Windows 11 offers a tool under Settings > System > Storage > "Cleanup recommendations" that identifies large files, unused applications, and system files for removal. The Disk Cleanup utility is accessible on all Windows versions by searching for "Disk Cleanup," which helps delete temporary internet files and cache files. To clear the location cache, navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > "Location history" and click "Clear." To flush the DNS cache, open the Run command window, type ipconfig/flushdns, and press Enter. Regular file management can significantly improve system performance.