Windows 8.1 Archives

Winsage

April 5, 2025

I hope these 3 long-lost Microsoft Windows 8 features stay gone forever

Windows 8 introduced a new interface that replaced the traditional Start Menu with a full-screen tile layout, leading to negative user feedback due to its touchscreen optimization and disruption of productivity for desktop users. The tile interface featured constantly updating tiles that distracted users, while Metro apps had a restrictive design that complicated tasks like image editing. The Charms bar was criticized for unintentionally activating and interrupting workflows. Despite some improvements like Fast Startup, the overall reception was poor, prompting Microsoft to release Windows 8.1, which reintroduced the Start Button. The subsequent launch of Windows 10 received a much more favorable response, indicating a shift in Microsoft's strategy away from the controversial elements of Windows 8.

Tech Optimizer

April 5, 2025

I put Trend Micro and McAfee antivirus in a head to head showdown – here’s how it went

McAfee and Trend Micro are two antivirus software options with distinct features. Specifications: - McAfee costs per year for a single user; Trend Micro starts at per year for 2 adults and 4 children. - McAfee supports Windows 10 and 11; Trend Micro supports Windows 8.1 to 11. - Malware protection is rated as good for McAfee and adequate for Trend Micro. - Both do not offer backup software. - System resource usage is light to heavy for both. Costs and Coverage: - Both do not have a free tier but offer a 30-day trial. - Trend Micro's entry-level Antivirus + Security is priced at , while McAfee's Basic plan typically retails for for a single device. - Trend Micro offers packages for 3 devices, 5 systems, and 10 systems, while McAfee's plans cover up to two adults and four children. Antivirus Protection: - Trend Micro uses heuristic behavioral analysis, while McAfee employs cloud-based infrastructure and machine learning. - Both provide periodic updates, but McAfee features Ransom Guard for monitoring file changes. Antivirus Performance: - McAfee has a 99.8% protection rate; Trend Micro has a 98.1% rate. - McAfee has fewer false positives (10) compared to Trend Micro (76). Security and Privacy Features: - Trend Micro includes a Firewall Booster; McAfee emphasizes phishing protection and personal data privacy. Performance and System Impact: - Trend Micro has minimal impact on system resources; McAfee uses more resources during scans. Interface: - Trend Micro's interface is user-friendly; McAfee's interface is simplified but less customizable. Installation and Support: - McAfee's installation takes under five minutes; Trend Micro's takes over twelve minutes. - McAfee offers 24/7 support; Trend Micro's support is limited to business hours unless on a premium plan. Overall, McAfee is rated higher in performance and features, while Trend Micro is noted for its efficient resource management and user-friendly interface.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

Windows 11 market share grows rapidly with the end of Windows 10 approaching

As of March 2025, Windows 10 has a market share of 54.23%, down 4.43 percentage points from the previous month, while Windows 11's market share has risen to 42.66%, an increase of 4.53 percentage points. Windows 11's adoption has surged by 15.98 percentage points since March 2024, while Windows 10 has declined by 14.84 percentage points during the same period. Regular support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, with only the Extended Security Updates program available for continued security updates. Windows 7 has a market share of 2.22%, Windows XP is at 0.33%, and Windows 8.1 stands at 0.28%.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

Microsoft patches Windows Kernel zero-day exploited since 2023

ESET has identified a zero-day vulnerability in the Windows Win32 Kernel Subsystem, designated as CVE-2025-24983, which has been exploited since March 2023. This vulnerability, stemming from a use-after-free weakness, allows low-privileged attackers to escalate access to SYSTEM privileges without user interaction. It primarily affects older Windows versions, including Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows 8.1, but also poses risks to newer versions like Windows Server 2016 and Windows 10 (build 1809 and earlier). The exploit was first seen in the wild in March 2023, targeting systems compromised by the PipeMagic malware. Microsoft has addressed this vulnerability in the recent Patch Tuesday updates. Additionally, five other zero-day vulnerabilities were also patched, and CISA has mandated that Federal Civilian Executive Branch agencies secure their systems by April 1st.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

Nearly half of Steam’s users are still using Windows 10, with end of life fast approaching

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning users will no longer receive free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes. Over 40% of users are still on Windows 10, according to Steam’s January 2025 Hardware & Software Survey. The hardware requirements for Windows 11 have deterred many users from upgrading, particularly those with older processors. Operating on an unsupported OS increases risks from malware and viruses due to the lack of security updates. Discussions among gamers suggest a potential interest in alternatives like SteamOS, which Valve plans to expand to more devices, although challenges remain for desktop users.

Winsage

December 8, 2024

Last 48 Hours of Cyber Week Flash Sale: Lifetime Office Suite Starts from $15.29 and Windows 11 Pro for Just $13.29!

The Cyber Week Flash Sale offers premium Microsoft products at discounted prices, including Windows 11 Pro for .25 and Office 2021 Pro for .11. Office 2016 Pro is available for .29. The sale includes various Microsoft products such as Windows 10 Pro activation keys, Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, and earlier versions of Microsoft Office for both PC and Mac. Antivirus software and other tools are also available. Purchases are delivered via email, and the site is noted for its reliability.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Microsoft closes the door on Windows 11 supporting older hardware

Microsoft has confirmed that the hardware requirements for Windows 11, including the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, are non-negotiable. The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 2025. TPM 2.0 is essential for encrypting data, validating digital signatures, and enhancing security on Windows devices. It integrates with security features like Credential Guard, Windows Hello for Business, and BitLocker disk encryption, and supports Secure Boot. Windows 11 also requires support for virtualization-based security and hypervisor-protected code integrity (HVCI), limiting compatibility to CPUs released from 2018 onward. Although there are workarounds for unsupported hardware, Microsoft has tightened upgrade processes and is promoting new PC purchases to encourage upgrades from Windows 10.

Winsage

November 29, 2024

Last 48 Hours for Black Friday Crazy Sale: Get Lifetime Office Suites Only for $15.29, Windows 11 for $13.25!

Godeal24's Black Friday Crazy Sale offers significant discounts on Microsoft Office and Windows products, with savings exceeding 90%. Office 2021 Pro is available for .11, featuring real-time collaborative editing and integration with Microsoft Teams. Office 2016 Pro is priced at .29, suitable for older systems like Windows 7. Windows 11 Pro can be upgraded for .25, while Windows 10 Pro is offered at .25. The sale includes activation keys for various operating systems and Microsoft Office versions, all guaranteed to be authentic. Customers receive immediate email delivery of their activation keys after purchase.

Winsage

November 26, 2024

Valve’s latest Steam client update no longer support Windows 7 and Window 8 systems

As of November 2024, Valve has discontinued compatibility for the Steam PC client with Windows 7 and Windows 8, meaning users on these systems will no longer receive automatic updates. Official support for these operating systems ceased on January 1, 2024. While Steam may still function on these platforms, Valve cannot guarantee continued functionality without updates. This decision is influenced by the reliance on an embedded version of Google Chrome that is incompatible with older Windows versions and the need for OS features and security enhancements exclusive to Windows 10 and later. According to Valve's October 2024 Steam Hardware & Software Survey, 96.26% of PC gamers are using Windows 10 or Windows 11, with only 0.28% on Windows 7. Windows 7 and 8 users will miss out on new features like the Steam Game Recording capability. The move aligns with industry trends, as Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 in 2020 and Windows 8 in 2023, highlighting the security risks of outdated operating systems.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Microsoft tries to convince Windows 10 users to buy a new PC with full-screen prompts

Microsoft is encouraging users to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 ahead of the end of support for Windows 10, which is set for October 2025. The company has implemented fullscreen prompts for Windows 10 users, promoting the benefits of new Windows 11 PCs. These prompts highlight messages like “do more with a new Windows 11 PC” and link to a promotional site for new devices. Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 at a cost, with commercial clients able to purchase up to three years of extended support. Windows 11 is only compatible with CPUs released from 2018 onward, limiting the ability of many existing devices to upgrade. Despite efforts to promote Windows 11, its adoption rates have not surpassed those of Windows 10, although it briefly became the most popular operating system for PC gaming on Steam. Microsoft has also continued to release new features for Windows 10 and reopened its beta program for Windows 10 users in June.