software applications Archives

Winsage

April 5, 2025

ReactOS, an Open Source Take on Windows

ReactOS is an open-source operating system designed to be compatible with Windows, aiming to recreate the Windows experience while ensuring compatibility with existing software applications. The first stable release occurred in 2011, followed by a beta version in 2013 that improved support for 64-bit systems. By 2020, ReactOS reached a Technical Alpha milestone, indicating progress in stability and performance. The latest version resembles the outdated Windows XP interface, which may appeal to some users but lacks modern functionality. The ReactOS Application Manager allows users to install applications, but many popular software versions are outdated or incompatible. Users are advised to use the Application Manager for installations, as external downloads can lead to issues. ReactOS appeals to Windows users reluctant to switch to Linux or invest in new hardware, but it remains a work in progress with bugs and limited application support. The project invites contributions to enhance the user interface and application compatibility.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

10 Windows features you aren’t using, but should

Recent updates in popular software applications have introduced several features aimed at enhancing user experience and productivity. 1. Phone Link has added a one-click-copy button for messaging notifications, simplifying the sharing of codes and reducing errors. 2. Windows 11's Snipping Tool now includes a “Text actions” button, allowing users to extract and manipulate text from screenshots. 3. PowerToys enables users to paste text as plain text, helping maintain consistency by eliminating unwanted formatting in documents and communications.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Windows Notepad is Getting AI Summaries

Microsoft is testing AI-powered summaries in Windows Notepad, currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels. The 'Summarize' feature allows users to generate concise summaries by highlighting text and selecting 'Summarize' or using the Ctrl + M shortcut. A Microsoft account is required, and Microsoft 365 subscribers will use AI credits for this feature. Users can disable AI features if they prefer the classic Notepad experience. Additionally, Notepad will include a 'recently closed files' feature for quick access to previously closed documents.

Winsage

March 16, 2025

7 forgotten Windows apps that somehow still exist

WinAmp, foobar2000, and RealPlayer were once essential media players but have seen a decline in popularity due to improvements in Windows Media Player and the rise of streaming services. Foobar2000 and RealPlayer still appeal to a niche audience. Napster, originally a peer-to-peer file sharing service, has transformed into a legitimate music streaming service after facing legal challenges. TeamSpeak, once favored in the gaming community for voice chat, has been overshadowed by Discord but remains operational with ongoing updates. Netscape Navigator was a leading web browser that declined with the rise of Internet Explorer and was discontinued in 2008, but has been reintroduced as a Chromium-based browser by AOL. WordPerfect was a dominant word processing software in the late 80s and early 90s but lost market share to Microsoft Word; it continues to exist as an office suite. WinZip, once the preferred file compression tool, has seen its relevance decline due to native ZIP support in Windows and free alternatives like 7-Zip; it is now owned by Corel. WindowBlinds, a customization tool for Windows, has been updated for Windows 11 but lacks the popularity it once had, reflecting a trend towards less customizable operating systems.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

A new and dangerous keylogger is on the loose – here’s how to stay safe

Cybersecurity experts at Fortinet have identified a new threat called the Snake Keylogger, which has been involved in over 280 million blocked infection attempts. This malware uses advanced obfuscation techniques, making it difficult to detect and neutralize, and poses risks to individuals and organizations by allowing attackers access to sensitive data. Cybersecurity professionals recommend proactive defense strategies, including keeping antivirus software updated and educating users about cybersecurity issues. Fortinet has not revealed the creators of the Snake Keylogger or specific industries it targets.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

Latest Windows 11 update reportedly breaking major parts of the operating system

Microsoft is concluding support for Windows 10 and has released the Windows 11 24H2 update (KB5051987), which has caused significant issues, particularly with File Explorer. Users report that File Explorer is unresponsive, desktop shortcuts do not open, and navigation through directories like Documents, Downloads, and Pictures is problematic. Microsoft has not provided an official solution or timeline for a fix. Users can uninstall the update via Settings - Windows Update - Uninstall Updates. An optional update is expected soon, which may address the bugs.

Winsage

February 9, 2025

Microsoft Office Pro for Windows Is on Sale for A$96 Right Now

Microsoft Office Pro 2021 for Windows is currently available for A, reduced from its regular price of A2, with the promotion running until February 23 at 11:59 p.m. PT. The suite includes applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access, designed for installation on a single computer. It requires a one-time payment and does not involve ongoing fees. Minimum system requirements are Windows 10 or 11, 1GB RAM, and 4GB hard disk space. The software is available as a one-time download with essential security and basic updates. The offer is available through StackSocial, and pricing may change.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Windows MIDI Services Public Preview: MIDI 2.0, Multi-Client Support, and More

Microsoft has released a public preview of Windows MIDI Services in the latest build of Windows 11 for Windows Insiders on the Canary Channel. Key features include: - Full support for the MIDI 2.0 standard, including high-speed data transmission and higher-fidelity messages. - Faster transports for improved timing and reduced jitter. - Enhanced USB MIDI driver supporting both MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0. - Multi-client support for simultaneous use of a single device by multiple applications. - In-service scheduling of timestamped messages for applications using the new Windows MIDI Services App SDK. - Built-in loopback and app-to-app MIDI support. - Automatic translation between MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0. - Increased device metadata available to applications. - Improved notifications for device add/update/remove events. - Backward compatibility with the WinMM (MME) MIDI 1.0 API and future support for WinRT MIDI 1.0. - Open-source nature of the MIDI Service, with all components being MIT-licensed open-source projects.

Winsage

November 4, 2024

Microsoft warns dreaded ‘blue screen of death’ bug plaguing computers

Microsoft's latest Windows update for Windows Server 2025 is causing significant issues, including the blue screen of death (BSOD) for users. Multiple bugs are leading to software failures or excessively long restart times. Microsoft is working on a fix expected within a month and advises users to check system settings to mitigate BSOD risks by reducing the number of logical processors to 256 or fewer. Users have reported being locked out of their PCs for hours due to BSOD errors, with some considering switching to alternative operating systems. Microsoft has provided guidance on adjusting logical processor settings through the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) setup to prevent instability. DailyMail.com has sought clarification from Microsoft regarding the impact and timeline for updates.

Winsage

November 4, 2024

Paint it black – today is your last chance to download Paint 3D in Windows 11

Paint 3D is no longer available for download from the Microsoft Store as of today. The app, which was introduced in 2016 as part of the Windows 10 Creators Update, will not receive updates and will remain on devices only if installed before the deadline. Microsoft had previously indicated this change in August 2024. Traditional Microsoft Paint continues to be developed and is a core component of Windows 11.