software management Archives

Winsage

July 22, 2026

You can stop LG monitors that are reportedly installing bloatware on your Windows 11 PC, but the fix shouldn’t require this much effort

LG monitors are reportedly installing unwanted software, specifically McAfee bloatware, on Windows 11 systems without user consent when connected. This issue has been highlighted by Windows Latest, and the changelog of LG's monitor app on the Microsoft Store confirms the installation. A complex workaround exists for users to remove the software.

Winsage

July 18, 2026

I tried this Linux distro that looks like Windows, is made by a Microsoft engineer, and is based on Ubuntu

AnduinOS is a new Linux distribution created by a Microsoft engineer, based on Ubuntu, designed to provide a user experience similar to Windows 11. It offers both Long-Term Support (LTS) and short-term releases, with the latter featuring enhancements over its predecessor. Unlike Ubuntu, which uses Snap packages, AnduinOS utilizes Flatpak for software management, allowing access to a wider range of applications. The desktop environment closely resembles Windows 11, featuring a taskbar, Start menu, and other familiar elements, enhanced by GNOME extensions. Users can customize the taskbar and Start menu extensively, surpassing the customization options available in Windows. The integration of GNOME extensions, such as Clipboard History and Tiling Shell, further enhances productivity and user experience.

Winsage

May 27, 2026

My new favorite Windows app made my PC safer and more reliable

A significant shift in Windows applications is enhancing user experience and security, with experts recommending the use of digitally signed packages from trusted sources instead of random installers. Most commonly used Windows applications are now available through the Microsoft Store or the WinGet package repository, simplifying installation and enhancing security. The UniGetUI application streamlines software management and updates, allowing users to create bundles for easy transfer between PCs. It supports packages from various repositories and tracks applications for easy updates and uninstallation. Originally developed by Martí Climent, UniGetUI is now maintained by Devolutions, focusing on stability and security.

Winsage

April 29, 2026

Why Windows updates keep getting bigger and more bloated

Monthly updates for Windows 11 from Microsoft now range from 4 to 9 GB, compared to 300 to 500 MB updates two years ago. The increase in update sizes is attributed to the integration of advanced AI features, cumulative delivery of updates, and a fixed monthly update schedule. Cumulative updates bundle all previous updates, leading to larger file sizes, while the monthly frequency forces consolidation of changes into single releases. Users can check what their PC is downloading during an update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery optimization > Activity monitor.

Winsage

April 13, 2026

“More secure, reliable, user-friendly”: Microsoft explains why it quietly killed Windows 11’s phone activation option

Microsoft has discontinued the last method for activating Windows 10 or Windows 11 without an Internet connection, specifically the telephone activation option. Users have reported confusion and frustration as the option remained visible in Windows, but attempts to use it led to redirection to online portals. Microsoft has not fully disclosed the reasons for this change, but it aligns with a shift towards digital solutions and emphasizes the importance of Internet connectivity in software management.

Winsage

April 3, 2026

I switched to Linux and got tools that Windows users will never have pre-installed

Transitioning from Windows to Linux reveals a wealth of open-source software that enhances user experience. A key moment was switching from Fedora to openSUSE Tumbleweed, where Snapper, a snapshotting tool, was encountered. Snapper allows users to take snapshots of system files, enabling easy reversion to previous states without data loss. It automatically tracks significant changes, while Timeshift offers similar functionality in distributions like Linux Mint. KDE Plasma provides a fully customizable desktop environment, allowing users to personalize their experience with widgets, themes, and KDE applications. KDE Connect connects phones to Linux, enabling notification mirroring, file sharing, and media control, surpassing Microsoft's Phone Link. Linux package managers offer users significant control over their operating system, providing detailed information about downloads and dependencies. Although the command-line interface may seem intimidating initially, it becomes a preferred method for software management. Additionally, Linux distributions typically come with a wide range of high-quality applications pre-installed, enhancing the overall user experience.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

Windows 95’s self-healing tricks saved Microsoft’s retro OS from rogue installations — A “fix it after they break it” strategy

Raymond Chen, a software engineer at Microsoft, shared insights on the Windows 95 operating system, highlighting its rigorous testing phase that caused cash registers to crash, affecting over ,000 worth of software. He discussed issues with software installers that downgraded crucial system files, which Windows 95 addressed by creating a hidden backup directory at C:WindowsSYSBCKUP. This system checked version numbers of replaced files, restoring original files if necessary. Chen noted that blocking installer permissions would have led to complications, so Microsoft allowed installers to operate while implementing a system to check for and fix any damage. Over time, some components began shipping with their own installers, influencing developers' practices.

Winsage

February 21, 2026

You Can Now Install—and Update—Microsoft Store Apps Using the Command Line

Microsoft has introduced a new command line interface for the Microsoft Store that allows users to bypass the traditional interface for app installation and management. Users can access this feature by launching PowerShell and typing “store.” If the command doesn't work, ensuring Windows 11 updates are current may resolve the issue. The interface includes an ASCII art display and a list of sub-commands for searching, installing, and updating software with minimal keystrokes. Users can install applications by typing commands like “store install firefox,” which searches for the app and provides relevant information. The tool can only install apps available in the Microsoft Store, excluding some popular options. Users can also use commands like “store search” and “store browse-apps” to explore available applications. Additionally, the command “store updates” allows users to install all pending Store updates collectively or update individual apps. This new command line approach aims to enhance the speed and efficiency of software management on Windows.

Winsage

November 26, 2025

Microsoft adds new “app updates” page to Windows 11’s Settings app for updating installed apps without the Microsoft Store

Microsoft is introducing a new "app updates" page in the Windows Settings app for Windows 11, allowing users to check for updates for apps that choose to support updates through Windows Update. This feature is designed for scenarios where the Microsoft Store may not be accessible, such as due to administrative restrictions or if the Store has been uninstalled.

Winsage

November 9, 2025

I finally started using Linux-style package management on Windows, and I should have sooner

WinGet is a native package manager for Windows 10 and 11 that simplifies software installation and management. It allows users to install software using terminal commands, significantly reducing the time and steps involved compared to traditional methods. WinGet offers a silent installation option, enabling users to bypass installation prompts. It also allows access to multiple versions of software packages and provides a command to check for updates across all installed applications. Users can upgrade all apps at once with a single command. WinGet's command structure is user-friendly, and comprehensive documentation is available. Additionally, it can export and import installed packages, making it easier to set up a new PC. WinGet is considered a more robust solution compared to alternatives like Ninite, as it is a trusted, native tool for software management on Windows.