upgrade option Archives

Winsage

February 18, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7859 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7859 (KB5077223) has been released to the Beta Channel, introducing new features and improvements. For Microsoft 365 Family subscribers, there is a new option to upgrade to a different 365 plan on the Accounts page in the Settings app, which can be disabled if a streamlined experience is preferred. Improvements include enhanced reliability for app icons in the system tray when the taskbar is set to autohide, resolution of an issue causing File Explorer windows and tabs to jump unexpectedly, improved reliability for sending larger files via nearby sharing, and increased reliability in configuring options in Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Wheel. Updates are based on Windows 11, version 25H2, and many features are being rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology. Users can opt to receive features sooner by enabling the toggle in Settings > Windows Update. Some features may not be released beyond the Insider program and may evolve or be removed based on feedback. Localization for some features may still be in development.

Winsage

January 19, 2026

Windows 11 Home vs Pro: Expert Issues Upgrade Advice

Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro share consistent performance, with both versions offering the same kernel, gaming features, and applications. Key functionalities such as Copilot, Windows Defender, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0 protections are available on both editions, assuming hardware requirements are met. Windows 11 Home is simpler for most consumers, performing updates seamlessly and allowing free upgrades from eligible Windows 10 devices. Windows 11 Pro offers enhanced control capabilities through the Group Policy Editor, allowing for update deferrals and more extensive system management. Pro includes BitLocker device encryption, centralized management features, and the ability to join domains and integrate with Azure Active Directory. It also supports virtualization features like Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox, which are not available in Home. Pro can serve as a host for remote desktop connections, while Home can only connect to remote PCs. In terms of hardware limits, Windows 11 Home supports up to 128GB of RAM and one CPU socket, while Pro supports up to 2TB of RAM and two CPU sockets. The retail prices are approximately 9 for Home and 9.99 for Pro, with upgrade options available. For general users, Windows 11 Home is recommended, but Pro is advisable for those needing remote desktop hosting, BitLocker management, update deferrals, or virtualization capabilities.

Winsage

November 27, 2025

Microsoft Goes Wild for Black Friday, Windows 11 Pro Drops 94% Like They Forgot the Price Tag

A Windows 11 Pro license, typically priced around 0, is currently available for just under through StackSocial, representing a 94% discount. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as Universal Search for easy access to apps and documents, Virtual Desktops for customized workspace organization, keyboard shortcuts for enhanced workflow efficiency, and OneDrive integration for file synchronization across devices. The promotion is time-limited and offers an affordable upgrade option for users transitioning from older versions of Windows or setting up new PCs.

AppWizard

November 13, 2025

Forget Fallout 4’s Anniversary Edition — get these deals instead

The 10-year anniversary of Fallout 4 was marked by the release of the Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition, which includes the base game, all six expansions, and 150 community-created items from the Creation Club. The Anniversary Edition is priced at .99, with an upgrade option available for existing players at .99. Alternatives for PC players include the Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition for .19 and the Fallout 4 Creations Bundle for .79. Fallout 4 is set in a post-apocalyptic Boston, taking place 210 years after a nuclear disaster in 2077, and features settlement-building mechanics. The game has received criticism for its main storyline and speech system, but remains popular, especially after the release of the Fallout television series. Players can also access the base game through Xbox Game Pass, though DLCs and Creation Club items require separate purchases.

Winsage

November 10, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Windows Offer—You Have 24 Hours To Update Your PC

Nearly 40% of PCs have not transitioned to Windows 11, leaving about 500 million users vulnerable after the official retirement of Windows 10 on October 14. The deadline for users to secure their systems coincides with Microsoft's first security update for Windows 10 PCs not enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which offers a 12-month extension for essential patches. Many users may not be enrolled in ESU, increasing their risk of cyberattacks. In Europe, some PCs may not support the Windows 10 ESU, making Windows 11 the only viable upgrade option. Users attempting to enroll in ESU updates may face temporary unavailability in their region, and a workaround requires a potentially challenging in-place upgrade to Windows 10. Microsoft warns that outdated operating systems are prime targets for cybercriminals, and upgrading to Windows 11 is crucial for those eligible.

Winsage

October 14, 2025

Yes, Microsoft Offers Free Windows 11 Upgrade—Check Your PC Now

Users are upgrading to Windows 11 as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life, with its market share dropping below 35%. Windows 11 requires specific minimum hardware requirements, which can be checked using the PC Health Check tool. If a device is not compatible, Microsoft suggests purchasing a new Windows 11 device. Microsoft offers a free 12-month security support extension for those unable to upgrade, with enrollment in the Extended Security Update (ESU) program open until October 2026. Users can enroll in the ESU for Windows 10 and later upgrade to Windows 11 within the next year if their hardware is eligible. Windows 11 has enhanced safety and security features, but around 500 million PCs still run Windows 10. There are reports of issues with the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool, and users are advised to download the Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) as a workaround. It is recommended to back up files during this transition period.

Winsage

October 11, 2025

Windows 10 support ends October 14, but here’s how to get an extra year for free

Windows 10 will reach "end of life" status on October 14, meaning it will no longer receive critical security updates by default. Users can choose to upgrade to Windows 11 for free if their device is compatible, purchase a new PC with Windows 11, or enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of security support. To enroll in ESU, users must ensure their PC is up to date, confirm they are using an administrator account, check eligibility for Windows 11, and then navigate to Update & Security in Settings to enroll. Free enrollment requires linking to Microsoft’s cloud services and is limited to the first 5 GB of backup storage. Once enrolled, users will have an additional 12 months to consider upgrading to Windows 11.

Winsage

October 1, 2025

How to force install the Windows 11 2025 Update (version 25H2)

Microsoft has begun the rollout of the Windows 11 2025 Update (version 25H2) for compatible devices. This update is a minor cumulative release that does not require a complete reinstallation for users on version 24H2, but those on version 23H2 must upgrade to version 24H2 first. To install the Windows 11 2025 Update from Settings, users should open Settings, click on Windows Update, enable the toggle for getting the latest updates, check for updates, download and install, and then restart the device. For users upgrading from version 23H2 or earlier, the Installation Assistant can be used, which involves downloading the tool from the Microsoft support website and following the prompts to install the update, requiring a complete reinstallation. The Media Creation Tool can also be used to create a USB bootable media for the update, which necessitates a complete reinstallation. Alternatively, users can download the official ISO file from the Microsoft support website, mount the image, and run the setup to upgrade while preserving files, settings, and applications. The availability of version 25H2 was announced on September 30, 2025, and users should check for updates regarding the rollout schedule for their specific devices.

AppWizard

September 8, 2025

It’s official – “another wave” of Intel Core Ultra Arrow Lake CPUs is coming

Intel's CFO, David Zinsner, confirmed the upcoming release of additional Arrow Lake CPUs, which will bridge the gap between the existing Core Ultra 200-series and the future Nova Lake processors. The Arrow Lake CPUs have shown improvements in thermal management and power efficiency but have struggled against AMD's latest gaming CPUs. The new Arrow Lake refresh may feature higher clock speeds and enhanced AI performance for the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The manufacturing of Arrow Lake CPUs is being handled by TSMC, while the upcoming Panther Lake and Nova Lake CPUs will utilize Intel's in-house 18A manufacturing process. The new Arrow Lake CPUs will provide an upgrade option for users of LGA1851 motherboards.

Winsage

September 7, 2025

Windows 11 Update: Here’s How To Upgrade Your PC From Windows 10 Before It’s Too Late

Microsoft will conclude support for Windows 10 on October 14, with extended security updates available for an additional year. Users are advised to transition to Windows 11 for better security. The upgrade process involves backing up files, downloading Windows 11 via a standard upgrade or clean install, and then installing the operating system. A clean install requires an 8GB+ USB flash drive and the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's website. Potential issues include errors from Windows updates, and users may consider alternatives like Linux if they find Windows 11's interface unappealing.