software compatibility Archives

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Windows 11 migration is still causing lots of headaches for some firms

Recent research by Panasonic indicates that many businesses are hesitant to migrate to Windows 11 due to cybersecurity threats and financial implications. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of devices in use will need replacement or upgrades for compatibility with Windows 11, rising to 76% for larger enterprises with over 5,000 employees. Concerns about ransomware and malware are prevalent, with 93% of respondents expressing worry, and two-thirds believe migrating could increase overall costs, including 55% anticipating higher cybersecurity expenses. Additionally, 47% of organizations face software compatibility issues, and 45% are concerned about productivity losses during the transition. The Extended Security Update (ESU) program is estimated to cost around £320,000 over three years for 1,000 devices. Despite these challenges, about one-third of organizations see potential benefits in upgrading, such as improved performance (36%), a more future-proof ecosystem (36%), and access to advanced AI features (34%). Chris Turner from Panasonic emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Modder behind the ‘Swiss army knife of PC gaming’ deletes their 20 year-old Steam account with anti-Valve manifesto: ‘By the end of my bitter dealings with Valve… there was zero hope’

Kaldaien, the creator of the graphics and performance enhancement tool Special K, has deleted their Steam account after two decades, citing frustrations with Steam's update policies and the platform's evolution since 2002. They criticized Steam for becoming bloated and complicating software compatibility, making older games unplayable due to updated requirements. Kaldaien expressed concerns about the diminishing freedom for gamers to purchase from various sources and criticized the Steam Input API for obstructing access to alternative input options. Despite being a Steamworks partner, they felt unresponsive to Valve and noted that some issues stem from developers' choices rather than Steam itself. Kaldaien's experiences highlight the concentration of power in Valve's hands and raise questions about the long-term implications for gamers reliant on a single platform.

Winsage

June 17, 2025

How Microsoft’s Windows 95 test nearly crashed an entire software store

Microsoft's transition from Windows 3.x to Windows 95 involved a unique compatibility testing strategy where the development manager purchased one copy of every available software program from a local store. The software was then tested by the Windows 95 development team in a makeshift marketplace set up in the cafeteria. Each team member had to install and run two programs, reporting any issues encountered. The cash register at the store struggled with the large total of the order, crashing when it exceeded ,000, leading the store owner to split the transaction into smaller amounts. One developer, Raymond Chen, tested a German-English automatic translator, which performed poorly in translation.

Winsage

June 16, 2025

Goverments are ditching Windows and Microsoft Office — new letter reveals the “real costs of switching to Windows 11”

Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11, which has higher hardware requirements that may render many existing PCs obsolete. The Document Foundation criticizes Microsoft's push for Windows 11, suggesting it increases reliance on Microsoft services and raises costs due to subscription models. Users express frustration over the mandatory Microsoft account for Windows 11, and a petition warns that the end of Windows 10 support could lead to many discarded computers. Alternatives like Linux and LibreOffice are presented as viable options, with Linux being compatible with older PCs that ran Windows 10. Users are advised to test Linux on a secondary partition to evaluate compatibility and workflow needs.

Winsage

June 14, 2025

LibreOffice backs campaign to help users move from Windows 10 to Linux – and ditch Office, too

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11 or exploring alternatives like Linux. The End of 10 initiative aims to guide users toward affordable options, particularly Linux and LibreOffice, as many existing Windows 10 devices may not meet Windows 11's hardware requirements. The transition to Windows 11 may also lead to increased costs and reduced user autonomy due to its cloud-centric design. LibreOffice, an open-source productivity suite, offers essential tools without licensing fees and promotes open standards, though compatibility with Microsoft Office documents may vary. The Document Foundation suggests three steps for transitioning to Linux and LibreOffice: testing the new platform, assessing software compatibility, and providing training for users.

Winsage

June 13, 2025

LibreOffice maker urges Windows 10 users to defect in viral ‘Go Linux, not Windows 11’ campaign

The Document Foundation (TDF) is advocating for users to transition from Windows 10 to Linux, emphasizing its benefits as a free and open operating system. The deadline for Windows 10 support is October 14, 2025. TDF argues that users are not required to upgrade to Windows 11, which has new hardware requirements that may make many existing PCs obsolete. TDF promotes Linux and LibreOffice as a privacy-centric alternative that allows users to maintain their current hardware while accessing a suite of applications. Other Linux advocates, including KDE, have criticized Microsoft for its subscription model. Transitioning to Linux may be challenging for less tech-savvy users due to the learning curve and potential software compatibility issues. TDF suggests testing Linux on secondary partitions, but acknowledges that this may be difficult for some users.

Winsage

June 10, 2025

We’ve Finally Reached the End of the Road For Intel Macs

Apple has introduced macOS Tahoe, the last major version compatible with Intel-based Macs. The final Intel-based models eligible for the upgrade are: - MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) - MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports) - iMac (27-inch, 2020) - Mac Pro (2019) These models will receive the full suite of features when macOS Tahoe launches later this fall, but functionalities reliant on Apple Intelligence will be exclusive to Apple Silicon devices. Intel-based Macs will continue to receive security updates for an additional three years. Apple is also phasing out Rosetta, which allowed non-native apps to run on Apple Silicon, and future software compatibility will be limited to macOS 26 and macOS 27.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

Computers running on Microsoft’s Windows 10 must be updated

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning devices will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, which could lead to security vulnerabilities. At Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), many computers can be upgraded to Windows 11 without disruption, and the upgrade process is being managed by University Technology ([U]Tech). Some devices may need assessment for compatibility, and [U]Tech will contact those affected. Early planning is important to avoid disruptions, ensure budget allocation, and maintain security. Users should contact [U]Tech if they have not been reached by June 30 and provide their device information. Assistance is available through various channels, including a support form and the [U]Tech C.A.R.E. Center.

Winsage

May 26, 2025

Only a fool still uses Windows 7

Microsoft ceased security updates for Windows 7 in January 2020, leaving the operating system vulnerable to exploits. As of 2025, using Windows 7 poses significant risks, including challenges with modern applications and increased susceptibility to malware. Windows 11 offers enhanced security, performance, and compatibility, making it a safer alternative. Users still on Windows 7 should consider upgrading to a more secure operating system or alternatives like Linux, which continue to receive updates and support.

Winsage

May 17, 2025

Windows 11 Home vs Pro for Gaming: Which One Should You Choose?

Upgrading from Windows 11 Home to Windows 11 Pro does not yield significant benefits in gaming performance, compatibility, or features for most gamers. Both editions provide identical gaming performance, supporting the same core gaming technologies such as DirectStorage, Auto HDR, and Game Mode. Windows 11 Home supports up to 128 GB of RAM and one CPU socket with 64 cores, while Windows 11 Pro supports up to 2 TB of RAM and two CPU sockets with 128 cores. Pro includes additional features like BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop hosting, Hyper-V virtualization, and Group Policy management, which are not typically utilized by gamers. The price of Windows 11 Home is lower than that of Pro, making it a more cost-effective choice for gaming. Both editions meet the hardware requirements for modern gaming, and compatibility with major games and platforms is consistent across both versions.