setup process Archives

Winsage

June 17, 2025

Microsoft Confirms Windows Upgrade Choice—100 Day Deadline Nears

A flaw in Windows 11 related to update KB5063060 is causing installation failures for many users, particularly in the gaming community, with error codes such as 0x800f0922, 0x80070002, 0x80070306, and 0x800f0991. Microsoft has announced an additional upgrade option for at least 240 million users still on Windows 10, as support will be withdrawn in just over 100 days. A new PC-to-PC migration experience is being rolled out to help users transfer files and settings during setup, and a Windows Migration feature integrated within the Windows Backup tool is being tested to assist those unable to upgrade due to hardware limitations. This feature is currently hidden in the latest release preview build but can be activated with a specific feature ID.

Winsage

June 16, 2025

With Windows 10 EOL On the Horizon, It’s Time to Replace Rather Than Upgrade

The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, after which users will not receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, exposing them to cyber threats. Many legacy PCs do not meet the system requirements for Windows 11, leading to potential compatibility issues and performance problems if upgraded. Investing in a new Windows 11-compatible PC ensures better performance, energy efficiency, and long-term support, with built-in security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Transitioning to Windows 11 offers advantages such as an improved user interface, integrated AI tools, enhanced default apps, personalizable workspaces, and better visuals. Continuing to use an unsupported Windows platform after 2025 can result in compliance issues, data loss, and increased maintenance costs. Replacing hardware rather than upgrading can mitigate these risks and ensure access to ongoing security features.

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

I tried Google’s secret, open source, offline AI app to see if it’s better than Gemini

Google has introduced the AI Edge Gallery, an application that allows users to download and run large language models (LLMs) directly on their Android devices for offline processing. The app features four distinct LLMs categorized into three functions: Ask Image, Prompt Lab, and AI Chat. Users can engage in image analysis, chat interactions, and prompt-based tasks. The installation process is cumbersome, requiring users to download the app from GitHub and create a Hugging Face account. Once operational, the app has a sleek interface and smooth functionality. It can provide travel planning advice, explain complex theories, generate recipes, rewrite text, summarize content, and recognize images, although it struggles with less common subjects like landmarks. AI Edge Gallery does not have the same level of control over devices as Google's Gemini and cannot execute commands like turning on the flashlight.

Winsage

June 10, 2025

6 essential steps that Windows 11 users often miss after a fresh install

Many users overlook crucial default settings after installing Windows 11, which can lead to performance issues, privacy vulnerabilities, and complications during recovery. Key settings to configure include: 1. System Restore: This feature is disabled by default and allows users to revert system files and settings to a previous state. To enable it, users must access the System Properties page, select the main drive, click Configure, and turn on system protection. 2. BitLocker Recovery Key: Windows 11 automatically activates BitLocker on new installations. Users should back up their recovery key in their Microsoft account to avoid issues during startup. 3. Power Settings: Users should adjust power settings to prevent underperformance. This includes selecting "Best Performance" for both "Plugged in" and "On battery" modes and configuring screen and sleep timeouts. 4. Privacy Settings: Windows 11 collects diagnostic data by default. Users can enhance privacy by turning off features like "Find my device," "Personalized offers," and "Advertising ID," as well as disabling optional diagnostic data transmission. 5. Device Drivers: Users should verify that all device drivers are correctly installed, as the operating system may not install drivers for critical components. This can be checked in Device Manager, and updates can be managed through Windows Update. 6. System Backup: Establishing a backup is essential for data protection. Users can set up regular backups using the "Backup and Restore" feature by connecting an external drive and following the setup process in Control Panel.

Tech Optimizer

June 6, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus Review 2025: I Found This Top-Rated Security Software Effective and Efficient

Bitdefender Antivirus has a score of 9.5 out of 10, with the following breakdown: Performance: 9/10, Security: 10/10, Customer Support: 9/10, Usability: 10/10, Value: 9/10, Features: 10/10. It has over 500 million users worldwide and offers real-time protection against malware, a scam detector, a VPN, password manager, ad blocker, digital identity protection, dark web monitoring, and data breach detection. Bitdefender's plans include a free version for single-device use and various Ultimate Security packages for individuals and families, all priced at 0 for the first year. The software is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and minimal impact on system resources during operation. It consistently achieves high marks in third-party lab tests for security and offers various customer support options, though the initial steps to reach a representative can be cumbersome.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

This $200 Windows PC fits in the palm of my hand – and powers three 4K displays

The Minix Neo Z97 mini PC is priced at 9 on Amazon and features Windows 11 pre-installed. It has a compact size of 88×88×42mm and weighs 0.18kg. The specifications include an Intel® Processor N97 (up to 3.6 GHz), Intel® UHD Graphics, 12GB LPDDR5X-4800MHz memory, and a 512GB M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x 4 NVMe SSD. It supports a triple monitor setup and offers connectivity options such as dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. The device operates quietly, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. While it performs well for everyday tasks, it shows strain with resource-intensive applications.

AppWizard

June 2, 2025

So You’re Thinking About Starting a Minecraft Server… Here’s Why You Should

In Minecraft, sharing the experience with friends enhances gameplay, making dedicated servers, like those from Apex Hosting, valuable for multiplayer interactions. Players are increasingly interested in creating their own servers for collaborative play and customization. Hosting a server allows players to set their own rules, choose between public or private access, and introduce various mods and plugins for enhanced gameplay. With a personal server, the world remains accessible even when the host is offline, enabling continuous play and regular backups. Building a community takes time, but it can lead to shared experiences and memorable interactions. Apex Hosting offers an easy setup process and support for players looking to create their ideal Minecraft server.

BetaBeacon

June 2, 2025

The best Nintendo 3DS emulator on Android just got even better

The update brings performance and compatibility gains on all platforms.

Winsage

May 24, 2025

VMware Fusion is the best way to run Windows for free on Mac

VMware Fusion is a free solution for virtualizing Windows on Macs, including those with Arm chips. It simplifies the setup process by allowing users to automatically download Windows 11 for Arm devices. Performance testing on an M4 Mac Mini showed impressive results, with smooth operation for everyday tasks and light gaming, despite limitations compared to Parallels, such as lack of support for 120Hz refresh rates and Coherence mode. Users need to create a Broadcom account to download the software, which can be cumbersome. Overall, VMware Fusion is a practical option for users seeking a cost-effective way to run Windows on their Macs.

Winsage

May 23, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4161 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4161 (KB5058515) has been released to the Beta Channel for Windows 11, version 24H2. This update includes new features such as the Microsoft 365 Text Action in Click to Do, allowing users to draft content in Word by selecting recognized text. Lock screen widget personalization is now available globally, enabling users to customize their lock screens. The update introduces support for multiple dashboards in Widgets, enhancing organization and access to favorite widgets. Improvements include recommendations from the Microsoft Store in the "Open with..." dialog and a new PC-to-PC migration experience in the Windows Backup app. Various fixes have been made to the Start Menu, Task Manager, Narrator, and Voice Access. Known issues include incorrect build version display post-PC reset and Bluetooth issues with Xbox Controllers. Users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub.