technology upgrade Archives

Winsage

October 8, 2025

I just found a 40% discount on this new Windows 11 Copilot+ PC that brings it below $500 — a great option for Windows 10 holdouts this Prime Day

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale features the Acer Aspire 14 AI, a Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, now priced at 9, reflecting a 40% discount from its regular price of 9. The laptop is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU, an Intel Arc GPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It has a 14-inch 1080p display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, a full-size keyboard, and a spacious trackpad. Connectivity options include two USB4 Type-C ports, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone jack, along with support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The device is suitable for productivity tasks, media consumption, light gaming, and creative projects.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Windows 11 migration shows surprising surge for some businesses – but for once, desktop is leading the way

Desktop shipments to businesses increased by 22%, accounting for 17% of total enterprise PC sales, as companies prepare for the end of support for Windows 10. In contrast, overall PC shipments for consumers rose by only 9%. Canalys reported that during the first four months of 2025, overall PC shipments rose by an average of 9%, with desktops increasing by 8% and notebooks by 10%. Windows 11 adoption is currently at 43%, while Windows 10 stands at 53%. IDC forecasts a potential contraction in the global PC market due to stabilization from the migration to Windows 11 and expected worsening macroeconomic conditions.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

Why upgrading from Windows 10 is now urgent

Microsoft will cease free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Continuing to use Windows 10 after this date will incur significant additional support costs through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which doubles fees each subsequent year. A one-year ESU option extends support only until October 2026. Organizations face challenges such as increased support costs, outdated technology, cybersecurity risks, and lack of AI integration. Transitioning to Windows 11 Pro devices with advanced technology is essential for maintaining competitiveness and productivity. A seamless device refresh strategy should include assessing current assets, budget planning, establishing an implementation timeline, and providing training and support for staff.

Winsage

September 29, 2024

Wiping a Windows laptop? Here’s the safest way to erase your personal data – for free

Individuals upgrading their technology must consider how to handle their old Windows PCs, ensuring the permanent deletion of personal files. For desktop PCs, swapping out the system drive can erase data, while laptops may require a full reset. On Windows 10, this can be done via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and on Windows 11 via Settings > System > Recovery, selecting the Remove Everything option. Users can also utilize the Clean Disk option or perform a clean installation by deleting disk partitions. However, Microsoft warns that these methods may not meet stringent data erasure standards, leaving the possibility of data recovery by skilled individuals. For systems with solid-state drives (SSDs), manufacturers often provide Secure Erase commands through management utilities. Third-party tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard also offer wipe disk options. Users can enhance security by encrypting the system drive using Windows’ built-in encryption tools before performing a clean install. If a Microsoft account is used on a device with BitLocker Device Encryption (BDE), the system drive is likely encrypted by default. Users can check for BDE support using the System Information utility. For Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro users, the Manage BitLocker utility allows for full drive encryption. If BDE is unavailable, the command Cipher /W:C: can be used to overwrite unused disk space, though this process may take a significant amount of time.