Windows 8

Winsage
July 3, 2025
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.
Tech Optimizer
July 1, 2025
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
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
June 29, 2025
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.
Winsage
June 24, 2025
Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and is offering a one-year subscription to Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for a fee. Users can also redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for an ESU. The ESU will provide essential bug fixes, security updates, and technical support until October 13, 2026. Microsoft will continue to deliver security updates for MS 365 applications and Windows Defender until October 2028. Enrollment in the ESU program can be done through notifications and the Windows Settings menu, with a rollout to the general public starting in July and reaching widespread availability by mid-August. Windows 11, released in 2021, has received positive feedback and aims to address user concerns regarding usability and aesthetics.
Winsage
June 17, 2025
The LibreOffice project is encouraging users to transition from Windows to Linux as Windows 10 approaches its end. The Document Foundation is developing LibreOffice version 25.8, which will remove support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, as well as deprecate x86 (32-bit) Windows builds. The latest version is 25.2, released in February, with version 25.8 expected in August. Users on Windows 7 can access both "fresh" and "stable" releases, with the current stable version being 24.8.7, which will still support Windows 7 after the release of version 25.8.
AppWizard
June 8, 2025
The Xbox PC app, which allows access to Microsoft Store PC games and PC Game Pass, has been improving, but recent changes indicate issues with library management. Microsoft is unifying the back ends of the Xbox One store and Xbox Series X|S consoles, leading to beta tests for deactivated games appearing on devices like the Lenovo Legion Go, resulting in unplayable clutter. Users cannot hide games or track cloud save statuses, and the "My PC games" section displays outdated and non-functional titles instead of actual PC games. Clicking on non-PC Xbox games redirects users to the Xbox console store without resolution, causing frustration among gamers. Microsoft is reportedly investing in enhancing Windows 11 PC gaming and the Xbox PC app, possibly in anticipation of an announcement regarding Project Kennan. The current inconsistencies may be due to backend unification efforts, creating confusion for Xbox gamers using various devices.
Tech Optimizer
June 3, 2025
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.
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