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Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2026

How to Disable Windows 11 Defender: Temporary and Permanent

Microsoft Defender Antivirus is the built-in security solution for Windows 11, protecting against viruses, malware, and ransomware. Users may need to disable it temporarily or permanently for various reasons, including software installation, penetration testing, performance issues, transitioning to third-party antivirus solutions, or troubleshooting conflicts. Temporary disabling can be done through the Windows Security app, which will automatically re-enable after a restart. Permanent disabling requires changes in Group Policy, applicable only to Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions, and necessitates disabling Tamper Protection first. Another method for permanent disabling is installing a third-party antivirus, which automatically deactivates Defender's real-time protection. Windows 11 Home users cannot use Group Policy for permanent disabling but can still temporarily disable Defender or install a third-party antivirus. Disabling Defender exposes the system to threats, and users should ensure they have alternative protection in place. Major Windows updates may reset Defender settings, and caution is advised when modifying system settings.

Winsage

February 1, 2026

Microsoft says latest Windows 11 issue crashes explorer.exe, makes taskbar disappear, but a fix is rolling out

A bug in Windows 11 has been causing disruptions, particularly affecting the Explorer.exe process, leading to the desktop user interface and taskbar disappearing for users. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and will release a fix in the optional update, Windows 11 KB5074105, in January 2026. The problem affects Windows installations with certain startup applications configured, causing Explorer.exe to stop responding upon signing in. Users are advised to manually restart Explorer.exe via Task Manager if it becomes unresponsive. The KB5074105 update will also fix issues with Explorer not displaying custom folder names correctly and resolve problems with an unresponsive lock screen and black screens linked to a previous update.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

Final day to get Windows 11 Pro for just $10

A promotion has reduced the price of Windows 11 Pro to a significant discount, making it an attractive option for users currently on Windows 10 or the Home edition of Windows 11. The offer represents a 94% discount from the standard retail price and is a rare opportunity for a current-generation Windows Pro license. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as Snap Layouts, multiple desktops, BitLocker device encryption, Windows Information Protection, Hyper-V virtualization, and Remote Desktop capabilities. It requires a compatible 64-bit CPU, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, at least 4GB of RAM, and adequate storage. Users are advised to purchase from reputable sellers to avoid issues with activation or legitimacy of the license.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

I Switched From Windows 11 to Linux Mint. Here Are 7 Things It Does Way Better

Linux Mint is a free operating system that can be downloaded without any licensing fees, in contrast to Windows 11, which costs between 9 for the Home Edition and 9 for the Pro Edition. It has minimal hardware requirements, running efficiently on traditional AMD- or Intel-based systems, with a 3GB installer and support for devices with as little as 2GB of RAM. Linux Mint features a cleaner and more organized desktop interface compared to Windows 11, with three different editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, catering to various user preferences. Users can test Linux Mint risk-free via live USB drives, and it operates without AI features, unlike Windows 11. It collects minimal diagnostic data, prioritizing user privacy. However, Linux Mint does not support major software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft 365 desktop applications, and some hardware drivers may be lacking. Users may need some technical knowledge for optimal use.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

I got so mad at Windows I downloaded this free utility app to disable all its spyware

The author experienced two Windows reinstallations on a secondary PC due to issues with a lost sign-in PIN and a Microsoft account login loop. This led to a realization about the invasive nature of Windows and consideration of switching to Linux. Instead, the author used a utility called ShutUp10++ to manage privacy settings and disable unwanted data collection features. Before using ShutUp10++, it is crucial to create a system restore point to safeguard against potential issues. ShutUp10++ consolidates various privacy settings into a user-friendly interface, categorizing options and allowing users to make informed decisions. Users can choose to apply changes to their profile or the entire PC and should export their settings to prevent Windows updates from reverting them.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Nobody wants a massive Windows 11 Start menu. Let us resize it, say users, as Microsoft monitors feedback

The redesign of the Windows 11 Start menu has received mixed feedback, with users appreciating the upgrade but expressing concerns about its size and lack of customization options. Many users have reported that the Start menu can occupy up to 70% of the screen, with some configurations covering nearly 90% of the display. Users are requesting the ability to resize the Start menu, similar to the controls available in Windows 10. Microsoft has acknowledged this feedback and is monitoring user responses, though there is currently no immediate plan to implement a resize button. The new design allows sections within the Start menu to be responsive, but the overall size of the menu itself does not change. The Start menu is still being rolled out, with most users seeing it following the December 2025 update.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

This free tool lets you make all the Windows registry changes you’ve been avoiding

Windows 11 generally provides a satisfactory experience, but power users often seek more control due to telemetry services, background applications, and bloatware. Winaero Tweaker offers a user-friendly graphical interface for making system adjustments, including restoring the classic context menu and File Explorer ribbon. It allows users to disable ads across various platforms with a one-click solution and provides an easy way to eliminate bloatware by disabling unnecessary background apps and services. Winaero Tweaker also enables users to disable automatic driver updates, giving them control over their system's drivers. Compared to the Registry Editor, Winaero Tweaker simplifies the customization process with clear toggles and explanations, making it accessible for both novice and experienced users.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

People don’t like Windows 11’s automatic Start menu sorting, and Microsoft wants to know why

Microsoft has introduced categorized app sorting in the Start menu of Windows 11, which has faced criticism from users for its lack of customization options. Users cannot edit, rename, or rearrange categories, leading to frustration. Applications are automatically assigned to predefined categories like Productivity, Creativity, or Games, with many ending up in the 'Other' category. Popular apps such as Hulu, Teams, and WhatsApp have been miscategorized, prompting users to express their concerns through the Feedback Hub. Microsoft has invited users to provide feedback on miscategorized applications to improve the system.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Microsoft Keeps Adding Windows Features, But Trust Keeps Eroding

Windows 11 has received mixed reviews, with users expressing dissatisfaction primarily due to unexpected changes, mandatory decisions, and problematic updates rather than performance issues. Microsoft frequently introduces new features, but these are often met with resistance due to a lack of user consent and clear communication. Recent Patch Tuesday updates have led to complications, diminishing user trust. Users desire clarity about changes, optional features, and centralized privacy controls. They seek a clearer relationship with Microsoft, which includes no advertisements in core interfaces, no mandatory features without opt-in, transparent communication, and meaningful feedback mechanisms. The bond between Microsoft and its users is strained, requiring clarity and consistency to rebuild trust.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Microsoft secretly working FREE updates for Windows 11

Microsoft is set to introduce new features for Windows 11, following the discontinuation of Windows 10 support. Two major updates are planned for 2026: Windows 11 Version 26H1, available only for new PCs with the Snapdragon X2 chip, and Version 26H2, which will be released to all users in the autumn. Key features include the integration of Copilot, Microsoft’s AI assistant, which can replace the standard search box on the Taskbar, allowing users to ask questions and search documents using natural language. The calendar flyout on the Taskbar will be updated to show upcoming events and reminders, syncing with the Outlook app. A new full-screen Xbox app will transform Windows PCs into Xbox consoles, optimizing for gamepad use. Microsoft is also exploring video-based wallpapers for the desktop, allowing continuous video playback. Additionally, Copilot will be integrated into File Explorer for enhanced productivity, enabling users to chat about files and generate document summaries.