third-party support Archives

Winsage

May 6, 2025

This is what I’m doing with my old Windows 10 PC instead of trading it in like Microsoft wants me to

Numerous alternatives exist for extending the life of a Windows 10 PC instead of discarding it. 1. Installing Linux Mint can provide a user-friendly transition to a different operating system, allowing old hardware to remain functional. 2. Transforming the PC into a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device by installing an operating system like TrueNAS Scale can repurpose the hardware for file storage across a network. 3. There are emerging third-party support options that may offer security patches for Windows 10 after Microsoft ends its support, allowing users to continue using the operating system. Repurposing older technology promotes sustainability and offers new experiences.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

4 reasons PowerToys Run is the best Spotlight alternative for Windows users

PowerToys is a suite of productivity tools for Windows users, featuring PowerToys Run, which serves as an alternative to macOS's Spotlight. PowerToys Run allows users to launch applications and search for files quickly and efficiently, with built-in plug-ins for searching the Windows registry, executing terminal commands, converting units, performing calculations, creating timestamps, and conducting web searches. It offers high customization options, enabling users to adjust settings for an optimized search experience. Additionally, it supports third-party extensions for enhanced functionality, such as browser history searches and direct queries to ChatGPT. The entire PowerToys suite includes other tools like FancyZones for window management and PowerRename for file renaming, contributing to improved workflow efficiency.

Winsage

November 13, 2024

Microsoft Update Decision—Alarming News For Millions Of Windows Users

Microsoft has extended support for Windows 10 home users for one year, alongside existing enterprise options. A recent update (KB5001716) for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 may lead to automatic feature updates, which could eventually become mandatory upgrades. Users may receive notifications about their device's support status and hardware requirements. Microsoft has been installing this update since October 2024. As the extended support deadline approaches, users may be compelled to upgrade to Windows 11 if their hardware is compatible. The situation poses challenges for those wishing to continue using Windows 10 beyond 2025 and 2026, especially with recent vulnerabilities highlighting the risks of losing support.

Tech Optimizer

September 26, 2024

PostgreSQL 17 integrates better with JSON and requires fewer query rewrites

PostgreSQL version 17 is now available, featuring significant improvements in performance, scalability, and ease of use. Key enhancements include better integration with the JSON standard, improved logical replication, and enhanced memory management through a more efficient vacuum process. The update automates query execution for the 'IN' clause with B-tree indexes, reducing the need for manual query rewriting. Additionally, PostgreSQL 17 introduces native support for incremental backups. The maintenance of PostgreSQL is managed by The PostgreSQL Global Development Group, with contributions from over 450 developers and companies.

Winsage

August 30, 2024

Using unsupported hardware on Windows 11 is only going to get more miserable

Windows 11's system requirements, particularly the need for TPM 2.0 support, have rendered many older CPUs incompatible, prompting concerns about obsolescence among users. Microsoft has begun closing loopholes that allowed installation on unsupported hardware, tightening restrictions as the end of support for Windows 10 approaches in October 2025. This strategy aims to encourage users to upgrade to new PCs that meet Windows 11 specifications, potentially increasing sales for Microsoft. The company is also promoting new "Copilot+ PCs" with advanced AI features, further incentivizing users to transition from Windows 10.

Winsage

July 4, 2024

Enterprises urged to think carefully about Windows 10 extended support options

Companies must weigh the risks and rewards of using third-party support for software vulnerabilities that Microsoft does not address, considering the potential security implications of leaving these vulnerabilities unpatched. The company aims to provide fixes for unaddressed vulnerabilities in order to offer a comprehensive solution for securing IT infrastructure, including non-Microsoft products like Java runtime and Adobe Reader. The decision to utilize third-party support for software patches requires careful consideration to effectively manage IT security and minimize the risk of cyber threats.