software installation Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 19, 2025

Do You Need Antivirus for Chromebook?

Chromebooks are designed with robust security features, including sandboxing, verified boot, and automatic updates, which contribute to their reputation as secure devices. Despite these protections, vulnerabilities can still exist, particularly through phishing scams, risky extensions, and the use of Linux or Android apps. Security experts suggest that users who frequently engage in online shopping, download Android applications, connect to public Wi-Fi, or store sensitive information in the cloud should consider antivirus software for added protection. Recommended antivirus options for Chromebooks include TotalAV Essential Antivirus, Norton Mobile Security, and Avira Antivirus Security, each offering various features and benefits tailored for Chromebook users.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Microsoft silently erases a key feature from Windows 7 as Windows 11 changes things up

Device Stage, a feature introduced with Windows 7 to streamline hardware compatibility and enhance user experience, has been deprecated as Windows 11 advances. Microsoft has removed all mentions of Device Stage from its support pages, indicating a shift away from legacy features. Originally announced in 2009, Device Stage provided a visual interface for device interactions and supported connections via USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, often eliminating the need for manual software installation. The updated support page now focuses on Windows 10 and 11 functionalities, marking the end of Device Stage's relevance.

Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2025

Migrate Google Cloud SQL for PostgreSQL to Amazon RDS and Amazon Aurora using pglogical

PostgreSQL is a popular open-source relational database used by enterprise developers and startups, enabling rapid prototyping and supporting mission-critical applications. Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL and Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition facilitate easy setup, operation, and scaling of PostgreSQL deployments in the AWS Cloud, automating administrative tasks like software installation, storage management, and backups. The pglogical extension, compatible with PostgreSQL versions 9.4 and higher, allows for asynchronous replication and is supported on RDS for PostgreSQL and Aurora PostgreSQL from version 12. It uses a publisher/subscriber model for logical streaming replication. To migrate a PostgreSQL database from Google Cloud SQL to RDS for PostgreSQL or Aurora PostgreSQL, users must configure the primary database in Cloud SQL, create a PostgreSQL user with replication privileges, enable logical replication parameters, and create the pglogical extension. The RDS instance also requires a special user for replication, enabling logical replication parameters and creating the pglogical extension. Known limitations of pglogical include the inability to replicate primary key changes directly, the need to manually transfer extensions, and the lack of support for materialized views and large objects. Workarounds involve using surrogate keys for primary keys, manually creating extensions, and converting large objects to bytea columns or storing them in Amazon S3. DDL statements are not automatically replicated, but can be queued using the pglogical.replicate_ddl_command function.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2025

Defendnot Disarms Windows Defender by Pretending to Be a Friend

A newly developed security program called Defendnot can deceive and disable Windows Defender, even without legitimate antivirus software installed. It alters the system to appear as a genuine antivirus program, allowing hackers to neutralize Windows Defender's protective measures. Defendnot operates through an undocumented API that antivirus software uses to register with the Windows Security Center, causing Microsoft Defender to deactivate. Developed by security researcher es3n1n, Defendnot injects a DLL file into the Taskmgr.exe process, misleading Windows into believing an antivirus is present. Although created for research purposes, it can be misused by cybercriminals. Microsoft Defender recognizes Defendnot as a Trojan and quarantines it upon detection.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

3 reasons I prefer managing packages with WinGet over Chocolatey now

Package managers streamline software installation and management on PCs, with WinGet being Microsoft's user-friendly solution for Windows 11. Unlike Chocolatey, which requires complex setup, WinGet is ready to use out of the box after accepting license terms. It integrates with PowerToys, allowing users to execute commands via the Command Palette without opening a Terminal. Additionally, WinGet manages applications from the Microsoft Store, providing a comprehensive experience that can yield more relevant search results. While Chocolatey has a larger repository and advanced features for professionals, WinGet is more accessible for average users.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

5 Free Antivirus Programs To Eliminate Malware and Viruses (2025)

Users are increasingly seeking effective malware protection without the cost of premium software, leading to the emergence of free antivirus programs that offer robust security features. This trend is particularly beneficial for Windows 11 users who want real-time protection while staying within budget. Several leading cybersecurity firms provide free antivirus solutions equipped with advanced features such as real-time scanning, phishing defenses, cloud-based malware detection, and system optimization tools. These free programs can adequately protect a diverse audience, including gamers, remote workers, students, and casual users. Top free antivirus programs for Windows 11 in 2025 include: 1. Bitdefender Antivirus Free: Utilizes the same malware engine as its paid version, offers real-time detection, anti-phishing protection, and is ultra-light on system resources. 2. Microsoft Defender Antivirus: Integrated into Windows 11, provides cloud-delivered protection and built-in ransomware mitigation without ads. 3. Avast Free Antivirus: Offers additional tools like network scanning and a Do Not Disturb mode for gaming. 4. AVG AntiVirus Free: Features a simpler interface, link and attachment protection, and fewer pop-ups. 5. TotalAV Free Antivirus: A newer option with a clean interface, real-time protection, and a junk file cleaner. Key factors to consider when selecting free antivirus software include real-time protection, low resource usage, minimal intrusion, and extra security tools. While free solutions are suitable for most users, premium protection may be necessary for small businesses or those handling sensitive data. For gamers, Bitdefender and Avast are recommended for their low system impact and gaming modes. For remote workers, Microsoft Defender and TotalAV are highlighted for their ease of use and integrated protections. Essential features of effective antivirus programs include robust virus protection, real-time scanning, and a behavior shield to detect new threats. Performance should not significantly slow down the system, and the interface should be user-friendly. Experts recommend Windows Defender for basic protection, with AVG and Avast receiving endorsements for their feature balance, while Bitdefender Free is noted for its detection rates and minimal system impact. Free antivirus programs may lack advanced features and technical support compared to paid versions.

Winsage

April 29, 2025

This App Is the Easiest Way to Find, Install, and Update Software on Windows

Installing software on Windows can be tedious, requiring navigation through the Microsoft Store or manual downloads from official websites, which poses security risks due to potential malware downloads. Linux users benefit from streamlined software installation via package managers. Windows users can utilize a package manager called Winget for command-line installations, but UniGetUI offers a user-friendly visual interface for Winget and other package managers. UniGetUI allows users to search for and install applications easily, supports multiple package managers, and provides a Software Updates tab for managing updates across all sources. It also enables users to create and share bundles of applications for easy reinstallation.

Winsage

April 17, 2025

Forget Windows 11. These mad lads made Linux look like Windows XP!

The Linux distribution Q4OS has introduced a feature that allows users to experience the Windows XP interface, along with other Windows versions, within a Linux environment. Users can download the free Q4OS distribution and install the XPQ4 graphical user interface (GUI) to activate various Windows-like interfaces, including Windows 2000, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10. A live installation option via USB is available, allowing users to try the experience without installation by downloading the ISO file for XPQ4, referred to as FreeXP. Users can create a bootable USB stick using tools like Rufus or balenaEtcher, and upon booting, they will encounter the FreeXP or Free10 interface. The default login credentials for Q4OS are “adminq” with a blank password, and users can customize the language during startup. The XPQ4 environment allows users to switch between different Windows versions using the ‘XPQ4 Desktop Styles’ tool. The operational experience is designed to feel familiar to Windows users, with features for easy software installation and personalization. Installing Q4OS with XPQ4 involves selecting ‘Install Q4OS’ and following an installation wizard that includes options for language, keyboard model, and user account setup. After installation, users can log in with their new credentials and use a Linux environment that resembles Windows XP.

Winsage

February 25, 2025

How to save your old computer when Windows 10 hits its end of life

Linux has evolved significantly and allows for running various Windows applications and games through open-source projects like Wine, Vulkan, and Proton. It consists of multiple distributions, including Arch, Debian, Fedora, Manjaro, Mint, Opensuse, Red Hat, and Ubuntu, which can overwhelm newcomers. Linux Mint is recommended for users transitioning from Windows due to its similar interface. To install Linux Mint, download the .iso file from the official website, create a bootable USB drive using Balena Etcher, and boot from the USB stick. The installation process involves selecting language, keyboard layout, formatting the disk, and creating a username and password. After installation, users can access the Mint desktop, use the Driver Manager for hardware drivers, manage software through the Software Manager, and update the system with the Update Manager. For gaming, users can install Steam from store.steampowered.com. For those seeking simplicity, Google’s Chrome OS is a Linux-based alternative that operates primarily through the Chrome browser.

Winsage

February 20, 2025

This Is the Ultimate Tool for Setting Up a New Windows Computer

WinUtil is a free utility developed by Chris Titus that simplifies the setup process for new computers running Windows. It allows users to install multiple applications with a few clicks, featuring a user-friendly interface divided into five tabs: Software Installation, Tweaks, Config, Updates, and Microwin. Users can select desired software, make system adjustments, configure Windows preferences, manage update installations, and create customized Windows installers. The tool supports exporting application collections and tweaks for easy replication on other computers, and comprehensive documentation is available for further exploration of its features.