USB Archives

Winsage

July 27, 2025

I’m not upgrading to Windows 11, but I’m not tolerating Linux either

The author has been using an HP Pavilion laptop for a decade, but its performance on Windows 11 has declined due to modern applications and web standards. The laptop's 4th-gen i5 processor struggles with current operating system demands, leading to slowdowns during simple tasks. Attempts to optimize Windows 11 provided only marginal improvements. The author considered switching to Chrome OS Flex for its lightweight nature but found its reliance on web applications and lack of support for certain software limiting. Linux was also considered but deemed too complicated and incompatible with essential Windows-native applications. Ultimately, the author decided to install Chrome OS using the Brunch Framework, which allowed the aging laptop to run more efficiently and support the Google Play Store, improving overall performance and user experience.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

Microsoft claims Windows 11 24H2 is the ‘most reliable’ Windows version ever

Microsoft announced enhancements to Windows 11 with the optional July update (KB5062660), which includes the new features Windows Recall for EU users and Quick Machine Recovery for repairing boot failures. The company claims Windows 11 24H2 is the most reliable version of Windows yet, citing a 24% reduction in unexpected restart failure rates compared to Windows 10 22H2. However, the reliability of this claim is questioned due to selective telemetry data and reports of disruptions in functionalities such as USB printers, audio output, Bluetooth connections, Windows Update, and Windows Firewall.

Winsage

July 20, 2025

10 useful Windows built-in tools you’ve never used

- Windows Memory Diagnostic tests RAM for errors that may cause system crashes or freezes. It can be launched by typing "Windows Memory Diagnostic" in the Start Menu or using the Run Command with mdsched.exe. - Resource Monitor provides detailed insights into CPU, RAM, disk activity, and network bandwidth, helping identify resource-consuming applications. It can be accessed through Task Manager or the Windows search box. - Reliability Monitor displays a timeline of system stability, including software installations, updates, crashes, and hardware errors, aiding in troubleshooting. It can be found by searching in the Start bar or through Control Panel > Security and Maintenance. - DirectX Diagnostic Tool offers information about GPU, audio drivers, and DirectX version, useful for diagnosing gaming-related issues. It can be launched by pressing Win + R and typing dxdiag. - Credential Manager securely manages Windows login credentials and network login information. It can be accessed by searching for "Credential Manager" in the Start bar or through Control Panel. - God Mode consolidates over 200 system settings into a single folder, accessible by creating a new folder and renaming it to GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}. - Local Group Policy Editor allows advanced customization of Windows settings for Pro or Enterprise users. It can be launched by pressing Win + R and typing gpedit.msc. - Computer Management Console provides access to various system tools like Device Manager and Disk Management. It can be opened by right-clicking the Start button or using Win + R with compmgmt.msc. - Powercfg Tool diagnoses battery issues and provides reports on battery usage and health. It can generate a report by running powercfg /batteryreport in Command Prompt. - System Configuration (msconfig) allows users to control Windows boot options and troubleshoot startup issues. It can be launched by pressing Win + R and typing msconfig.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

You can try Linux without ditching Windows first

A growing number of users are exploring alternative operating systems as support for Windows 10 concludes, with Linux being a popular choice due to its user-friendly and free modern distributions. Many users start with little experience, and dual-booting allows them to run both Windows and Linux on a single machine, enabling them to select between the two at startup. This setup requires careful installation to ensure both operating systems coexist. Users can access files on Windows partitions from within Linux. To set up dual-booting, it's advisable to test on a spare machine and back up important files. The general steps include creating a bootable ISO for the Linux distribution, inserting the USB drive, and selecting the option to install alongside the current OS. After installation, users can choose between Linux and Windows upon reboot. Caution is advised to avoid losing data on the Windows partition.

Winsage

July 14, 2025

Microsoft tightens screws on Windows 10 users running Office 365

Mark has 30 years of experience in the technology sector and has written over 3,500 articles for PCWorld, covering topics such as PC microprocessors, peripherals, and Microsoft Windows. He has also contributed to publications like PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News, and received a Jesse H. Neal Award for breaking news coverage. Recently, he decided to sell several dozen Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs due to a lack of space in his office filled with technology.

Winsage

July 13, 2025

These PowerShell scripts make it easy to migrate Windows installs

A PowerShell script developed by GitHub user Anduin2017 allows users to create a new Windows 11 installation on an empty physical drive while retaining access to files and applications from the existing installation. The process requires running the script in an elevated PowerShell window, providing inputs such as the location of the empty drive and the edition of Windows to install from an ISO file. Users can continue using their PC during the installation, and upon completion, they can choose between the existing and new installations upon reboot. To set up necessary applications, users can customize PowerShell modules using a sample install.ps1 file from the GitHub project. This method is particularly beneficial for users relying on cloud storage solutions like OneDrive, as it allows for a refreshed operating system with minimal downtime and easy access to data. The streamlined approach is designed for users who frequently encounter Windows issues and need clean installations, enabling rapid replication of a base system with essential programs.

Winsage

July 13, 2025

Windows 11 KB5062785, KB5062683, KB5062688, KB5062693 setup, recovery updates released

Microsoft has released its monthly security updates for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 23H2, and 22H2, identified as KB5062553 and KB5062552. Dynamic updates have been introduced to improve the Windows Recovery experience and enhance Setup binaries. Key updates include: - KB5062785: Setup Dynamic Update for Windows 11, version 24H2 and Windows Server 2025, enhancing setup binaries. - KB5062683: Setup Dynamic Update for Windows 11, versions 22H2 and 23H2, improving setup binaries. - KB5062688: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 11, version 24H2 and Windows Server 2025, enhancing recovery environment and resolving a USB-C issue on Arm64 systems. - KB5062693: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 11, versions 22H2 and 23H2, improving recovery environment. These updates will be automatically downloaded and installed via Windows Update, or can be accessed manually through the Microsoft Update Catalog.

Winsage

July 12, 2025

Have Windows 11 upgrade questions? Here’s everything you need to know – before you make the leap

Windows 11, launched in 2021, is the operating system for hundreds of millions of PCs worldwide and is built on the same architecture as Windows 10 but has stricter hardware compatibility requirements. Users must upgrade due to the end-of-support date for Windows 10. The user interface features a redesigned Start menu, taskbar, and Settings app, along with new functionalities like a Widgets pane and enhanced window management. Hardware-assisted security is mandatory, with features like Secure Boot enabled by default. Windows 11 can be acquired with new PCs or through free upgrades for valid Windows 10 license holders, while retail licenses are available at similar prices to Windows 10. As of January 31, 2023, Microsoft stopped retail sales of Windows 10 licenses. The compatibility requirements for Windows 11 include a 64-bit processor, a minimum of 4GB RAM, and at least 64GB of storage. User feedback indicates a mix of satisfaction and dissatisfaction regarding the interface changes. Windows 11 is reported to be more reliable and secure than Windows 10, with support for Windows 10 ending on October 14, 2025. Installation options include the Windows 11 Installation Assistant and USB media creation, with version 24H2 currently available and version 25H2 forthcoming.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

This last-minute Prime Day PC deal is perfect for turning your setup into a pink, cozy gaming paradise

The Ditoo Retro Pixel Art speaker is currently available for .39, down from its regular price of .99. It features a 16 x 16 LED display for showcasing pixel art and connects to Spotify. The speaker is not a gaming console and does not link to gaming accounts. It has a nostalgic design and offers built-in games, functioning as a Bluetooth speaker. The typical price listed on Amazon is .98, while the manufacturer's suggested retail price is .99.

Winsage

July 10, 2025

Breathing new Life into Old Devices with Windows 11 on Amazon WorkSpaces

The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 2025, prompting businesses to consider alternatives like desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) solutions, such as Amazon WorkSpaces, due to many devices being incompatible with Windows 11. Organizations are repurposing older devices as clients for DaaS desktops to reduce costs and promote sustainability. Amazon WorkSpaces offers secure, cloud-based virtual desktops, enhancing security and business continuity while facilitating remote work. It has been recognized as a leading DaaS provider by Gartner. AWS announced compatibility with ChromeOS Flex in March 2025, making it suitable for repurposing older laptops. ChromeOS Flex requires minimal hardware specifications and simplifies IT management. Testing showed that a repurposed Dell E7440 laptop could effectively connect to a Windows 11 WorkSpaces desktop. The integration of Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise on Amazon WorkSpaces allows users to utilize existing licenses at no extra cost. Amazon WorkSpaces operates on a pay-as-you-go model, supporting sustainability and cost savings while providing secure access to virtual desktops.