third-party solutions Archives

Winsage

July 17, 2025

Hate Windows 11? Here’s how you can make it work more like Windows 10

User feedback has significantly influenced the evolution of Windows 11, particularly regarding changes to the user interface that differ from Windows 10. Early adopters expressed frustration, but many have adapted over time, while some still prefer the previous interface. Microsoft removed a considerable amount of legacy code, overhauling key components like the taskbar, Start menu, and File Explorer, which has disoriented some users. Microsoft has responded to feedback with updates, including the reinstatement of the Task Manager option in the taskbar's right-click menu and improvements to search functionality in version 22H2, as well as a redesign of File Explorer in version 24H2. Users can reposition the taskbar and Start button, but the ability to move the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen is still missing. A significant redesign of the Start menu is being tested. Keyboard shortcuts can help users navigate the new layout, and users can disable the widgets feature through Taskbar settings. Third-party applications like ExplorerPatcher, Open Shell, Start11, and StartAllBack offer customization options to revert to a more traditional layout, though they may pose compatibility risks with future updates.

Tech Optimizer

June 3, 2025

I learned these 6 antivirus myths for PCs are completely wrong

Antivirus software on Windows was once essential due to security vulnerabilities, but built-in protection in Windows 8 and later versions often suffices for everyday use. Modern third-party antivirus applications are designed to be efficient and have minimal impact on system performance. All operating systems, including macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, are susceptible to malware, contrary to the belief that only Windows needs antivirus protection. Manual virus scans are no longer necessary as modern solutions provide real-time monitoring. Antivirus software should be part of a broader security strategy that includes regular updates and secure online practices. Relying solely on cautious behavior is insufficient, as threats can emerge from various sources. Using antivirus software is still recommended, and users can complement built-in security features with third-party solutions.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

The Windows File Explorer is still so bad when it comes to networked drives

File Explorer in Windows 11 has usability issues, particularly with sluggish search functionality and problems accessing networked drives. Users often experience drives disappearing after reboot, inaccessibility to files, and freezing of File Explorer, with error codes like c0000375 indicating deeper issues. The networked drive feature relies on outdated technology, as Microsoft has deprecated older protocols like SMBv1, complicating file sharing. Users can mitigate freezing by restarting File Explorer and ensuring network settings are correctly configured, such as setting Wi-Fi to private and enabling file sharing options. Excessive pinned items in Quick Access can cause crashes, and clearing the cache may resolve these issues. Alternatives to File Explorer, like XYplorer and File Pilot, can provide better access to networked drives. Overall, the challenges stem from outdated technology and the corruption of the Quick Access cache, with third-party solutions available for relief.

Winsage

May 20, 2025

Microsoft revives DOS-era Edit in a modern shell

Microsoft has reintroduced Edit, a text editor originally from the MS-DOS era, as an open-source tool available on GitHub. It weighs under 250 KB and is designed for the modern command line, featuring mouse support, Unicode compatibility, and various editing functionalities like word wrap and Find & Replace. Edit will be integrated into Windows 11, with a preview version available for Windows Insiders. The application is noted for its speed and stability, providing a practical solution for text file edits directly from the command line.

Tech Optimizer

May 17, 2025

Do You Really Need Antivirus on Windows 11? Probably Not—Here’s Why

Windows 11 has robust built-in security features that may reduce the need for third-party antivirus software. Windows Security now offers comprehensive protection, including real-time malware detection, firewall protection, SmartScreen alerts, hardware-level security, account monitoring, and system health reports. According to AV-TEST results from January and February 2025, Microsoft Defender Antivirus scored 6.0/6.0 in protection, performance, and usability, effectively stopping advanced malware and phishing attempts with minimal system resource usage. Users of Microsoft Edge benefit from SmartScreen filtering, while those using other browsers receive system notifications for network protection. Basic digital hygiene practices, such as avoiding suspicious downloads and keeping software updated, are crucial for security. Third-party antivirus solutions may offer additional features but can lead to performance issues and privacy concerns. For casual users who maintain their systems and practice safe browsing, Windows Security is generally sufficient, while those handling sensitive information or needing advanced features may consider premium antivirus options.

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

Best antivirus software for Windows 2025, tried and tested

Antivirus software has been a common tool for PC users over the past two decades, with many opting for third-party solutions for enhanced protection despite Windows 11's built-in features. User behavior significantly impacts computer security, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unknown links and not reusing passwords. Antivirus packages are designed to combat threats like ransomware, spyware, and viruses. The evaluation process for antivirus applications involved testing on a Windows 11 PC with simulated virus attacks and scanning the SSD for performance metrics. The top antivirus apps for 2025 include BitDefender Total Security (£49.99), Avira Free (free), Malwarebytes Plus (£49.99), and Sophos Home Premium (£37.46).

Winsage

May 15, 2025

3 reasons Windows 11 is the best advertisement Linux ever had

Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 support for installation, creating compatibility issues for users with older hardware, even if the hardware is otherwise capable of running the OS. Many users are still on Windows 10 as the support deadline approaches, with some considering Linux as an alternative since it does not impose TPM 2.0 restrictions. Linux distributions can be installed on machines lacking TPM 2.0, allowing users to retain their existing hardware. Older CPUs, typically from Intel's 7th generation or earlier, are often incompatible with Windows 11 but can run Linux efficiently, sometimes improving application performance. Linux offers more customization and less bloat compared to Windows, appealing to users frustrated with Windows 11's limitations. The shift to Windows 11 has prompted some users to explore Linux as a viable alternative.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

Security update causes new problem for Windows Hello for Business authentication

Microsoft has indicated that a range of products, including their own and third-party solutions like smart card authentication products, single sign-on (SSO) systems, and identity management platforms, may be experiencing issues linked to a specific feature. This has led to an increase in support calls within certain organizations, particularly affecting machine-to-machine authentication. To mitigate disruptions from logon failures, Microsoft recommends that organizations temporarily change the registry key AllowNtAuthPolicyBypass from ‘2’ back to ‘1’, as detailed in KB5057784.

Winsage

April 21, 2025

Microsoft is finally making the Start menu better — now fix these 5 things, too

Users have expressed frustration with the restrictive Start menu in Windows 11 compared to Windows 10, prompting some to seek third-party solutions. A newly discovered Start menu design is larger, allows immediate access to the full list of applications, and offers the option to remove the Recommended section. Microsoft's inclusion of Clipchamp as a video editing tool is seen as a step forward, but it lacks features compared to Apple’s iMovie and operates as a web-based application. Widgets in Windows 11 are not well-received due to their isolated interface, and integrating them onto the desktop could improve accessibility. The gaming experience on Windows remains subpar, particularly in navigation with a gamepad, and Windows Search directs users to Bing and Edge, limiting browser choices. The initial setup process for Windows 11 is cumbersome, with numerous prompts for Microsoft services, leading to a frustrating experience.

Tech Optimizer

March 5, 2025

Microsoft Defender with Windows OS Bundling Not Abuse of Dominance: CCI

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) ruled that Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which has been the default antivirus software in Windows since 2015, does not constitute an abuse of dominant position under Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2002. The case was initiated by an anonymous informant, XYZ, who claimed that Microsoft's pre-installed Defender created barriers for third-party antivirus developers. The informant identified three challenges faced by these developers: the need for one-sided agreements to access Microsoft's Antimalware API, limited access to the Windows ecosystem, and the inability to operate efficiently without being set as the default application. Microsoft defended its position by stating that Defender is an integrated feature of Windows provided at no extra cost, and users can install third-party solutions freely. The CCI found no evidence of coercion or violation of the Competition Act, noting that the cybersecurity sector remains competitive and innovative. The CCI ultimately dismissed the claims against Microsoft, stating that the informant did not establish a prima facie case for action.