setup process Archives

Winsage

July 22, 2025

Microsoft’s new option to switch from Windows 10 to a new Windows 11 device could be ideal for people who hate OneDrive

Microsoft is developing a PC-to-PC migration feature for Windows 11 to assist users transitioning from Windows 10, contingent on hardware compatibility. This feature is partially integrated but non-functional until further updates. To migrate, both PCs must be on the same network and logged in with a Microsoft account. Users can transfer selected files and settings, excluding temporary/system files, applications, and saved passwords. A timer will display the estimated migration duration, and if the network drops, Windows will attempt to resume the transfer automatically. The migration feature is an alternative to using OneDrive for backups, but still requires a Microsoft account. Users configuring a backup via the Windows Backup app receive an additional year of Windows 10 support. The migration does not transfer applications directly, similar to the Backup app, which provides download links instead. Drives encrypted with BitLocker must be decrypted before migration, and Arm CPU devices are currently unsupported. The full functionality of this feature is expected to roll out soon in Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Winsage

July 18, 2025

Microsoft blocked some SMB shares on Windows, but here’s how you can fix it

Microsoft has introduced significant changes to SMB shares with the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, primarily enhancing security protocols. SMB shares now require SMB signing, and guest access has been disabled for most editions of Windows 11, necessitating a username and password for connection. These changes aim to address security risks associated with unauthorized data access. Users with Network-Attached Storage (NAS) setups may face accessibility issues due to these modifications. To regain access, users should enable SMB signing on their NAS and disable guest access. If necessary, users can disable security protections using Windows PowerShell, but this is not recommended.

AppWizard

July 17, 2025

You Can Now Stream Your Own Xbox Games Directly to Your PC

XBOX has enhanced its Play Anywhere program, allowing users to stream Game Pass titles and select personally owned games across various devices, including smartphones and the Meta Quest, through cloud streaming. This functionality now extends to browsers and consoles, but not to the Xbox app on PC. PC gamers can stream games previously unavailable on PC, provided they have a subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and own the specific game. The "Stream Your Own Game" feature is in beta testing and is being rolled out for around 250 games, with plans for expansion. To access this feature, users must become Xbox Insiders by downloading the Xbox Insider Hub app and completing the setup process.

Winsage

July 16, 2025

I hate Windows 11 a little less because of this free, tiny app

Windows 11 has received mixed reactions from users, with some appreciating its design and features while others are frustrated by its promotion of Microsoft services like the Edge browser and Bing search. A user expressed dissatisfaction with the lengthy setup process that included prompts to purchase additional Microsoft services. To address this, they found MSEdgeRedirect, a free application that redirects web searches from the Windows 11 Start menu to any preferred browser and allows users to manage taskbar widgets. As of July 2025, MSEdgeRedirect is effective on both desktop and laptop systems, although users are concerned about its future due to potential disruptions from Microsoft updates.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

You can try Linux without ditching Windows first

A growing number of users are exploring alternative operating systems as support for Windows 10 concludes, with Linux being a popular choice due to its user-friendly and free modern distributions. Many users start with little experience, and dual-booting allows them to run both Windows and Linux on a single machine, enabling them to select between the two at startup. This setup requires careful installation to ensure both operating systems coexist. Users can access files on Windows partitions from within Linux. To set up dual-booting, it's advisable to test on a spare machine and back up important files. The general steps include creating a bootable ISO for the Linux distribution, inserting the USB drive, and selecting the option to install alongside the current OS. After installation, users can choose between Linux and Windows upon reboot. Caution is advised to avoid losing data on the Windows partition.

Winsage

July 11, 2025

4 things Linux does better than Windows for the average user

Windows 11 dominates the consumer market due to partnerships with laptop manufacturers, creating a barrier for Linux. Windows 11 requires users to create a Microsoft account during setup, allowing data tracking, while Linux allows setup with just a local username and password, enhancing privacy. Windows 11 imposes unnecessary features like OneDrive and aggressive marketing, whereas Linux offers a customizable experience without upsells. Windows often includes bloatware, while Linux distributions typically come with only essential applications that can be uninstalled. Linux provides extensive customization options through various distributions, allowing users to tailor their computing experience.

Winsage

July 6, 2025

I replaced my Windows desktop with this custom shell, and I actually love it

Cairo Shell is an application that transforms the Windows desktop experience by altering the taskbar and user interface elements. It serves as a file browser, displaying the contents of the desktop folder and allowing easy navigation through any folder directly from the desktop. Users can access their desktop contents via a keyboard shortcut or taskbar button, maintaining workflow continuity. The menu bar, reminiscent of macOS, provides access to settings, favorite programs, and user folders, allowing customization and quick access to files. The taskbar features a floating design with adjustable icon sizes and an option to auto-hide, though it does not combine icons for the same application. Cairo Shell is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process that enhances the overall experience.

AppWizard

July 5, 2025

I built a PiKVM to control my PC remotely, and it’s a game-changer

The PiKVM project allows users to control a desktop or server remotely using a Raspberry Pi 4B and an HDMI-CSI bridge adapter, providing comprehensive keyboard, video, and mouse control even during reboots. It offers browser-based access to the PC's screen in real-time, enabling actions like force shutdowns, BIOS access, and operating system reinstallation, independent of the host system's operating system. The setup captures HDMI output and simulates USB input, functioning in scenarios like BIOS or crash screens. Essential components for building a PiKVM include a Raspberry Pi 4B, an HDMI-to-CSI bridge adapter, a microSD card, USB cables, an official power supply, and the latest PiKVM OS image. The setup process involves writing the OS image to the SD card, connecting the hardware, and accessing the web interface for remote control. PiKVM is beneficial for tasks such as troubleshooting boot sequences, configuring BIOS settings, and monitoring system status without physical interaction.

AppWizard

June 28, 2025

PC gaming doesn’t have to mean sitting at a desk in your spare time: Here’s how I built the perfect couch setup

Many console enthusiasts express concerns about the transition to PC gaming, citing high costs, time spent on settings, and discomfort from returning to a desk after work. Innovations like the Couchmaster Cycon2, which features memory foam cushions and an integrated mouse mat, provide comfort and convenience for gamers. Although the Cycon2 is no longer in production, alternatives like the CYWORX and CYBOSS are available, with prices at and 4 respectively, offering similar functionality with wooden worktops and efficient cable management. Investing in a quality 4K 144Hz TV can enhance the gaming experience, allowing for flexibility in playing positions.

Winsage

June 28, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4520 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4520 (KB5060834) has been released to the Beta Channel for users on Windows 11, version 24H2. This update includes new features, improvements, and fixes, which are being gradually rolled out. New features include: - A passwordless improvement in collaboration with 1Password, allowing users to integrate a plugin passkey provider and authenticate using Windows Hello. - Temporary disabling of Japanese support in voice access due to bugs. - Changes to default browser settings, where the new default browser will be pinned to the Taskbar and Start menu unless opted out. Fixes include: - Resolved crashes in File Explorer Home and issues with thumbnail visibility. - Addressed duplicate entries in the Start menu and animation issues with folder expansion. - Fixed a crash involving ctfmon.exe and resolved a memory leak related to the lock screen slideshow. - Improved responsiveness of system dialogs to text scaling. Known issues include: - New Beta Channel joiners may experience a rollback issue during installation. - Touch navigation in the Start menu may not function reliably, and drag-and-drop capabilities are limited. - Xbox Controller users may encounter bugchecks via Bluetooth. - Narrator scan mode may not function correctly in File Explorer for AI actions. - Limitations in pinning within the new widgets board experience. Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2 via an enablement package, with features rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology. Some features may not be publicly released and could change based on feedback.