Windows 7 Archives

Winsage

July 9, 2025

Can’t quit Windows 10? Here’s how to keep getting security updates after October 2025

Microsoft has introduced a one-year Extended Security Update (ESU) subscription for consumers, available for a fee. Additionally, two free enrollment options have been made available: syncing settings to the cloud using Windows Backup and redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. The ESU subscription is limited to personal use and cannot be renewed after the initial year, with security updates ending on October 13, 2026. The enrollment wizard for consumers will start rolling out in July, with full availability by the end of August.

Winsage

July 7, 2025

Microsoft finally bids farewell to PowerShell 2.0

Microsoft has officially announced the discontinuation of PowerShell 2.0, as confirmed through a recent update from the Windows Insider program. PowerShell 2.0, which debuted with Windows 7 and was included in several other versions, has been deprecated since 2017 but remained available for backward compatibility. Most current Insider Preview builds of Windows 11 have removed PowerShell 2.0, and it has also been deprecated for Windows Server. Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for its removal from the server operating system.

Winsage

July 4, 2025

Gamers continue to make the switch to Windows 11 — and not just from Windows 10, either

Windows remains the dominant operating system for gaming, with a modest increase in market share as users transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Windows 11 is approaching the market share of Windows 10, while Windows 7's share is declining. Microsoft has extended security support for Windows 10 for an additional year, potentially slowing migration to Windows 11. The most-used GPU among Steam players has shifted from the NVIDIA RTX 3060 to the RTX 4060 laptop variant, indicating a change in gaming hardware preferences. AMD is gaining market share, particularly with devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, contributing to a more diverse gaming landscape.

Winsage

July 3, 2025

Windows 10 will soon lose support: why you should upgrade to Windows 11 now

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning it will no longer receive security updates or bug fixes. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 to avoid vulnerabilities. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available but comes at a cost. Upgrading to Windows 11 is free for most users, but it requires specific hardware, including the TPM 2.0 module. Installing Windows 11 on unsupported machines may not receive updates or support, potentially necessitating the purchase of a new PC.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

When Microsoft finally pulls the plug on Windows 10 its successor will be four years old, and for three of those, it was never the OS of choice amongst Steam users

Valve's hardware survey data shows that Windows 10 remains the dominant operating system among PC gamers, with a slow decline expected despite Microsoft's upcoming support cessation. Windows 11 has not surpassed 60% in any Steam survey sample, and its growth has been stagnant. Windows 7 currently holds a mere 0.1% share, and projections suggest it could take about 82 months for Windows 10 to reach that level if trends continue. Linux's share has increased from around 1% to over 2.5% in three years, while Windows 11's growth has only seen a 3.7x increase during the same period. The survey indicates that the launch of the Steam Deck has had a limited impact on Linux adoption.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Is McAfee Slowing You Down? Here’s How to Remove It

To uninstall McAfee antivirus software on various operating systems, follow these steps: Windows 11 & 10: 1. Open Settings and navigate to Apps (Installed apps in Windows 11). 2. Search for McAfee and select the product to remove. 3. Click the three-dot menu and select Uninstall. 4. Confirm the uninstallation and restart the computer. Windows 8: 1. Access the Start menu and right-click on the McAfee product. 2. Select Uninstall and confirm in the Programs and Features window. 3. Restart the computer after completion. Windows 7: 1. Open Control Panel and select Add or Remove Programs. 2. Choose the McAfee product and click Add/Remove or Change/Remove. 3. Confirm removal and restart the computer. Using the McAfee Removal Tool: 1. Download the MCPR tool from the McAfee website. 2. Run MCPR.exe and follow the prompts to uninstall. 3. Restart the computer after removal. Mac: 1. Open the Applications folder and launch the McAfee Internet Security Uninstaller. 2. Optionally, select to uninstall SiteAdvisor. 3. Enter the administrator password and complete the uninstallation. For multiple McAfee applications, uninstall them one at a time. For Android, toggle off McAfee Mobile Security in Device admin apps, then delete it from Apps. To uninstall McAfee Safe Connect or LiveSafe, follow similar steps in the Apps settings.

Winsage

July 1, 2025

Windows 11 adoption spikes despite Microsoft’s free ways to stay on Windows 10

Microsoft's Windows 11 has been available for nearly four years and features a modern interface but lacks some popular features from Windows 10, such as taskbar repositioning. Security updates for Windows 10 will end on October 15, 2025, prompting users to either upgrade to Windows 11 or enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for a fee. Recent data from StatCounter shows that in the US, Canada, and the UK, Windows 11 has surpassed Windows 10 in market share, although globally, Windows 11 holds 47.98% compared to Windows 10's 48.76%. From March to May, market shares were stable, but in June, Windows 11's adoption increased by over four percentage points while Windows 10's declined. Windows 7 is the third most used version of Windows with a 2.19% share, followed by Windows XP at 0.43%, and Windows 8 and 8.1 at 0.31% and 0.28%, respectively. StatCounter's data comes from over 1.5 billion sites globally, providing insights into operating system trends.

Winsage

July 1, 2025

The popularity of Windows 10 has plummeted

As of June 2025, Windows 10's market share has decreased to 48.9 percent from 53.2 percent the previous month, while Windows 11's share has increased from 43.2 percent to 48 percent. Earlier versions like Windows 7, XP, and 8 have significantly lower shares at 2 percent, 0.4 percent, and 0.3 percent, respectively. In Russia, Windows 10's market share slightly decreased from 74.8 percent to 74.6 percent, with Windows 11 at 19.6 percent. The decline in Windows 10's market share is attributed to the upcoming end of support in October 2025, prompting users to switch to Windows 11. Tom's Guide suggests using the Windows Backup feature for continued updates on Windows 10 after support ends.

Winsage

June 30, 2025

Windows 7 still supported by major anti-virus solution makers as ESU program persists

Businesses are increasingly leveraging their own research and testing to gain a competitive edge, fostering innovation and tailoring strategies to meet the needs of their target audiences. Organizations are finding that valuable insights often come from internal resources, allowing them to conduct experiments that reflect specific market conditions and consumer behaviors. A/B testing is being used to refine marketing strategies by comparing campaign versions to identify which resonates more with audiences, enhancing engagement and optimizing return on investment. Data analytics tools are essential for interpreting findings, enabling organizations to identify trends and patterns that inform product development and customer service enhancements. Tailoring offerings based on feedback can improve customer satisfaction, while understanding market demands leads to more relevant product features and higher conversion rates in marketing campaigns. Encouraging a culture of experimentation empowers employees to test new ideas, driving creativity and collaboration. Companies that prioritize internal research and testing can adapt swiftly to changing market dynamics, positioning themselves to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Winsage

June 29, 2025

This app makes my Windows 11 PC look like Windows 7 — but it’s not for everyone

Explorer 7 is a customization tool designed to restore the Windows 7 taskbar and Start menu for users of Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11. It allows users to modify accent colors and integrates familiar Windows 7 UI elements, although it lacks the Aero effect in app windows and retains a modern appearance in File Explorer. Setting up Explorer 7 requires registry edits and Windows 7 installation files, with no built-in method to revert changes. Limitations include compatibility issues with UWP apps, lack of support for multiple taskbars on different monitors, and potential inconsistencies with autoplay features. The project is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a Windows 7 experience, but its compatibility with future updates of Windows 10 and 11 may be uncertain.