software licenses Archives

Winsage

December 4, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ending: Complete Windows 11 Upgrade Guide

Upgrading to Windows 11 involves careful planning and preparation. Start by updating Windows 10 to ensure recent updates are applied. Acquire a USB flash drive (at least 8GB) for the installation process, and document current software licenses as some applications may require reactivation. Check for driver updates to ensure hardware compatibility with Windows 11. There are three main upgrade methods: 1. Windows Update Automatic Upgrade: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, check for updates, and if compatible, download and install Windows 11. This method retains files and applications and typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. 2. Media Creation Tool Installation: Download the Media Creation Tool, run it, and follow prompts to create installation media on a USB drive. This method is useful for upgrading multiple devices. 3. Clean Installation Process: Insert the USB drive with setup files, restart the device, boot from the USB, and follow the instructions for a custom installation. This method erases all existing data, so comprehensive backups are necessary. Effective planning is crucial, and it is advisable to start the upgrade process well before the deadline of October 14, 2025. This allows time for testing applications, training staff, and addressing hardware requirements. Ensure all devices are compatible to avoid security issues, and consider a robust data protection strategy, such as a 3-2-1 backup approach. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free for users with genuine Windows 10 licenses. If a device does not meet the requirements, it cannot be upgraded. Users can roll back to Windows 10 within 10 days of the upgrade, retaining previous files. The upgrade process typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on various factors. Planning the upgrade early helps mitigate operational disruptions, allowing for staggered upgrades and reduced risks of security vulnerabilities as Windows 10 support ends.

Winsage

November 11, 2025

UK’s £312M Windows 10 Fiasco: Upgrading to Obsolescence on EOL’s Doorstep

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has allocated £312 million to upgrade its IT systems to Windows 10, just months before Microsoft ends support for the operating system on October 14, 2025. Defra faces challenges in migrating thousands of devices, with 24,000 outdated machines incompatible with newer systems. A survey indicates that 90% of UK finance firms also struggle with outdated IT infrastructure, increasing cybersecurity risks. The National Cyber Security Centre has warned organizations to prepare for migrations to Windows 11. Defra's £312 million expenditure includes software licenses, consulting fees, and hardware refreshes, but additional risks such as increased downtime and regulatory fines could lead to significant consequences. The department's outdated devices do not meet Windows 11’s TPM 2.0 requirements, complicating the upgrade process. Experts advocate for an upgrade to Windows 11, but extensive compatibility testing and user training are necessary. Government oversight bodies are scrutinizing Defra’s expenditures, and discussions suggest alternatives like Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, which offers updates until 2032. The financial implications of Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates pricing add strain, as costs double in subsequent years. The urgency for upgrades is emphasized by the potential cybersecurity risks, with experts warning of vulnerabilities affecting national food security and environmental initiatives.

AppWizard

October 10, 2025

EA’s own launcher is making Battlefield 6 unplayable by telling users they’re ‘missing content’ or must ‘purchase to play’ what they’ve already bought

Electronic Arts (EA) is working on a resolution for an issue affecting users of the EA App, which has prevented many from accessing game modes in Battlefield 6 due to missing downloadable content (DLC) or content-related errors. EA anticipates that the fix will be deployed within the next hour, and players will need to restart the game to see the changes. Many players who purchased Battlefield 6 through the EA app faced issues where they were told they were "missing" essential content or required to "purchase to play." EA has acknowledged the issue and is investigating it. Some users have found a workaround by refunding their EA purchase and buying the game through Steam, allowing them to play successfully.

Winsage

September 25, 2025

How to safely dispose of your Windows 10 laptop after upgrading to Windows 11

Many users are considering what to do with their aging Windows 10 laptops as they transition to Windows 11. Disposing of these devices in the trash is not advisable due to the potential for data recovery and the need for responsible disposal of components. Users are encouraged to back up important files using cloud storage services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox, and to check folders like Documents, Downloads, and Desktop for forgotten files. Exporting browser bookmarks and saved passwords is also recommended. After backing up data, users should perform a full reset of Windows 10 by navigating to Settings, then Update & Security, then Recovery, and selecting Reset this PC, opting to remove everything and fully clean the drive. This process takes approximately 1-2 hours. For those with solid-state drives (SSDs), using the manufacturer’s secure erase tool provides a more effective wipe than traditional reset methods, while the Windows reset process is sufficient for traditional hard drives. Once data security is ensured, users can choose to recycle the laptop through local electronics recycling programs, utilize Microsoft’s trade-in program, or donate it to charities or educational institutions. Additionally, users should consider salvaging useful parts like RAM sticks, chargers, and storage drives for future use, as these components may still function well even if the laptop itself is no longer operational.

Winsage

September 12, 2025

Legal fight over Microsoft Office and Windows license resales could reshape Europe’s second hand software industry

Microsoft is engaged in a legal dispute with ValueLicensing, a UK reseller of pre-owned software licenses, which is being heard at the Competition Appeal Tribunal. Microsoft claims that the resale of these licenses is unlawful, arguing it holds copyright over not just the software code but also components like the graphical user interface. ValueLicensing alleges that Microsoft has restricted the resale market by incentivizing customers to switch to subscription services and including clauses in contracts that limit resale rights, resulting in an estimated £270 million in lost profits. The case could significantly impact the future of the second-hand software marketplace in Europe.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

Microsoft key resale fight heads to court in the UK — case potentially puts cheap Windows keys at risk

A UK-based reseller's case against Microsoft regarding the resale of second-hand Windows and Office licenses is being heard by the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) over three days, concluding on September 11. The court will determine if certain components of Microsoft's software are exempt from the EU’s software resale regulations, which currently allow the resale of perpetual software licenses. Microsoft argues that the resale doctrine applies only to computer programs and not to components like the graphical user interface (GUI), which they claim remain under copyright protection after license transfer. A ruling in favor of Microsoft could end the resale of second-hand Windows licenses in the UK. This case is part of a larger legal battle initiated by ValueLicensing in 2021, which accuses Microsoft of harming the pre-owned software market. The comprehensive trial is expected in 2026, but current proceedings may influence the case's direction. Additionally, with Windows 10 support ending soon, any increase in licensing costs could negatively impact users needing to upgrade their systems.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

10 open-source apps I recommend every Windows user download

Open-source software provides alternatives to proprietary applications for Windows users, enhancing productivity without traditional software licenses. 1. LibreOffice is a free office suite that includes word processing, spreadsheets, and a database component, operates locally, and supports MS Office formats. 2. Flow Launcher is a free file search and application launcher that allows quick access to applications and files through a customizable hotkey. 3. Duplicati is a free backup solution that supports various storage destinations, offers encryption, scheduling, and remote management for data security. 4. Nextcloud is a free, locally hosted file storage and collaboration solution that allows users to control their personal data. 5. Franz is a free application that consolidates multiple messaging platforms into a single interface for easier communication. 6. YAZB (YAZB Reborn) is a free tool that customizes the Windows experience by creating a top bar displaying system information. 7. File Converter is a free application that allows users to convert various file formats through a right-click context menu option. 8. Bitwarden is a free open-source password manager that offers password generation and secure file sharing, with premium features available. 9. AutoHotKey is a free tool for automating tasks through scripting, enabling the creation of hotkeys and macros. 10. Ollama is a free open-source AI application that allows local interaction with AI models, ensuring data privacy.

Winsage

July 10, 2025

How to trick ChatGPT into revealing Windows keys? I give up

A researcher successfully exploited vulnerabilities in ChatGPT by framing inquiries as a guessing game, leading to the disclosure of sensitive information, including Windows product keys from major corporations like Wells Fargo. The researcher used ChatGPT 4.0 and tricked the AI into bypassing safety protocols designed to protect confidential data. The technique involved embedding sensitive terms within HTML tags and adhering to game rules that prompted the AI to respond with 'yes' or 'no.' Marco Figueroa, a Technical Product Manager, noted that this jailbreaking method could be adapted to circumvent other content filters. He emphasized the need for improved contextual awareness and multi-layered validation systems in AI frameworks to address such vulnerabilities.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

The best password managers for Android of 2025: Expert tested

Safeguarding personal information like login credentials and credit card details is crucial for Android users, and a password manager is essential for generating and securely storing strong, unique passwords. Bitwarden is highlighted as the best free password manager due to its open-source nature and robust encryption, allowing unlimited credential syncing across devices. It features autofill, secure note storage, a password generator, encrypted sharing, biometric unlock, and passkey support. 1Password is recommended for its user-friendly interface and security features, offering a library of over 20 credential types, autofill capabilities, and a feature called Watchtower for security alerts. It requires a subscription after a 14-day trial. Keeper is noted for its user-friendly onboarding process and enterprise-level security, accommodating various record types and offering features like account recovery and offline access, but it may be less appealing for budget-conscious users. Proton Pass, an open-source option from the creators of Proton VPN and Proton Mail, emphasizes privacy and offers features like password health alerts and hide-my-email aliases, although it currently lacks some functionalities of more established managers. Overall, Bitwarden is the top choice for cost-effective password management, while 1Password is recognized for its user experience.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

TikTok to let US Android users download app via kits on its website

Oracle Corporation's net sales are broken down by activity as follows: 74.4% from software license support and cloud services, 10.3% from customer services, 9.5% from the sale of cloud and on-premise software licenses, and 5.8% from the sale of equipment. Geographically, net sales are distributed as follows: 54.9% in the United States, 7.6% in the Americas, 24.6% in Europe/Middle East/Africa, and 12.9% in Asia/Pacific.