Windows device Archives

Winsage

January 3, 2026

5 Free Tools To Keep Your Windows 10 PC Secure Without Further Microsoft Support

Millions of users are unable to transition to Windows 11 due to stringent hardware requirements, leaving many Windows 10 PCs vulnerable to malware threats. Microsoft has introduced Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 Home users, available for a year at a cost. Users can enhance their Windows 10 security with various tools: - 0patch: Micropatches vulnerabilities without requiring a restart, supported until 2030. The free version addresses zero-day vulnerabilities, while the pro version offers more comprehensive protection. - TinyWall: Simplifies firewall management using the Windows Filtering Platform, allowing users to control app connections without constant pop-ups. - Patch My PC Home Updater: Automates the updating of outdated applications to enhance security. - Sandboxie Plus: Allows users to run applications in an isolated environment to prevent changes from affecting the system. - Panda Dome Free: A free antivirus solution providing real-time protection against malware, with features like USB Protection and Process Monitor.

Winsage

December 17, 2025

Why a Dual Monitor Setup Makes Sense

A dual monitor setup enhances productivity by allowing users to multitask efficiently without the need for constant tab-switching. It enables activities such as participating in virtual meetings while taking notes or editing photos with previews. Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs significantly improve performance, being faster than older devices. Users can optimize their workflow by using the laptop screen for communication tasks and the second monitor for focused work. Setting up a second monitor on Windows is simple, involving connections via HDMI, USB-C, or DisplayPort, and adjusting display settings. Suggestions for monitors include budget-friendly options, portable monitors, and accessories like stands and docking stations. Windows 11 features like Snap layouts help organize windows effectively on dual screens.

Winsage

December 13, 2025

Non-ESU Windows 10 can’t pause updates anymore, including if Windows 11 install starts accidentally by user

Windows 10 users not enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program are unable to pause updates, as the "Pause updates for 7 days" option is grayed out. This issue can occur if users initiate an upgrade to Windows 11. Typically, the inability to pause updates arises after multiple pauses or due to organizational restrictions, but in this case, it affects users who haven't paused updates at all. As of October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will reach its end of support, with only ESU-enrolled devices receiving security patches until October 2026. A new cumulative update is available for ESU users, but non-ESU users cannot access it. Users are prompted to install updates immediately, and if they do, the system may indicate that previous security updates have failed to install. Windows 10 now defaults to installing the 25H2 update for users upgrading without ESU enrollment, and the pause feature is unavailable during this process. Microsoft has made the Consumer ESU program accessible to regular users, allowing enrollment through Settings. Users can enroll for free with a Microsoft account, redeem Microsoft Rewards points, or purchase a one-year ESU license.

Winsage

October 15, 2025

Did you know that Windows 11 has an emergency shutdown feature? Here’s where to find it

Microsoft has a little-known Emergency Restart method for Windows 11, first shared by Reddit user '-Steets-' in 2022. To use it, press CTRL + ALT + DEL and hold the CTRL key while clicking the power button in the bottom-right corner of the screen. A message will appear warning that any unsaved data will be lost if the user clicks "OK" to proceed with the restart. This method serves as an alternative to a hard reset, allowing users to reboot their system without using the physical power button, which is particularly useful for laptop users. The Command Prompt also offers a restart option by typing "shutdown /r."

Winsage

September 9, 2025

Windows 11 SSD failures could be caused by glitchy drive firmware – here’s what you need to know

Recent discussions in the tech community have highlighted potential issues with SSD failures linked to pre-release firmware from Phison. An investigation by the Chinese PC enthusiast group PCDIY suggests that many SSDs crashing after the Windows 11 update were using these early firmware versions. Phison engineers have reportedly corroborated this, though an official statement is pending. Michael Wu, Phison's US General Manager, stated that the issues are related to 'preview drives' given to reviewers, which differ from final consumer products. He emphasized the importance of using updated firmware. Microsoft has cleared Windows 11 of any wrongdoing, suggesting the firmware may be the root cause. Reports indicate that SSDs not using Phison controllers have also faced similar issues. Users are advised to ensure their drives are on the latest firmware, which can be checked via Windows Device Manager, but should be cautious about updating due to associated risks.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

How to Audit Your Windows App Permissions (and Why You Should)

When you install applications on a Windows system, you grant them permission to access various components of your device, such as the webcam or location. Regularly auditing these permissions is advisable to ensure you're not sharing more information than you're comfortable with. To check app permissions, go to Settings > Privacy & security > App permissions, where you can view and revoke access for specific permissions like Location, Camera, and Microphone. You can also check permissions on an app-by-app basis by navigating to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and selecting Advanced options for individual apps. Some apps may have Background app permissions that allow them to operate in the background, which can affect memory and battery life. Regularly uninstalling unused programs can improve system security and performance.

Winsage

August 26, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 and Windows 10 Hit by Severe Lag After Microsoft’s August 2025 Update

Windows 11 Version 24H2, also known as the 2024 Update, is being rolled out to users via Windows Update. Eligible devices can check for the update in Settings > Windows Update. Devices running Windows 10 and Windows 11 versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2 will receive the update automatically, with options to schedule or postpone restarts. Copilot+ PCs will receive new AI features through the Windows Insider program, with availability varying by hardware and region. Users can seek help with update issues via the Get Help app or Microsoft support website. Known issues include: 1. NDI streaming performance degradation with OBS and NDI Tools (Confirmed). 2. WSUS installation failure for the August 2025 security update (Resolved). 3. WUSA installs failing from shared folders (Mitigated). 4. CertificateServicesClient error events (Confirmed). 5. Missing parental consent prompt for non-Edge browsers (Mitigated). 6. Easy Anti-Cheat causing blue screens (Resolved). 7. Incompatibility with sprotect.sys driver (Confirmed). 8. Dirac Audio devices losing audio output (Confirmed). 9. Camera use hanging apps on select devices (Confirmed). 10. Intel Smart Sound Technology driver causing blue screens (Confirmed). Workarounds and fixes are suggested for several issues, including switching NDI Receive Mode and copying .msu files locally for installation. Devices with certain drivers are blocked from receiving the update until compatibility issues are resolved.

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Linux Fu: Windows Virtualization The Hard(ware) Way

The Linux community faces challenges when certain applications are only available on Windows, despite solutions like Wine and virtual machines. A new approach using hardware instead of virtualization has emerged. The author received a Surface Laptop 2 that was non-functional until the keyboard was removed, revealing it was operational. While transitioning Windows installations from VirtualBox to KVM, the author discovered WinApps, a script that allows Windows applications to run on a Linux desktop via a virtual machine. However, this setup caused performance issues due to constant disk activity. The author experimented with connecting WinApps to a physical Windows machine on the network, successfully running Windows software directly on their desktop. The setup required executing an installation script on the Windows machine and making registry changes to enable RDP applications. Minor hurdles included compatibility issues with a dual-monitor setup and user permission bugs. Ultimately, Microsoft Word ran smoothly on the author's KDE desktop, demonstrating the potential for utilizing older computers for occasional tasks.

BetaBeacon

July 30, 2025

Ayaneo just announced the “world’s first flip dual-screen Android handheld” for 3DS games, and I’m more excited about it than the Windows version

Ayaneo has unveiled a new gaming handheld called the Ayaneo Pocket DS, which is the world's first Android clamshell portable for 3DS games.

Winsage

July 19, 2025

Microsoft shuts down Movies & TV digital storefront on Xbox and Windows

Microsoft will discontinue its Movies & TV digital storefront on Xbox consoles and Windows devices on July 18, 2025, ending the ability to purchase new movies and TV shows through the Microsoft Store. Users will still have access to previously purchased content via the Movies & TV application on their devices. The closure will affect new entertainment content acquisitions on Microsoft.com and the Microsoft Store on Windows and Xbox, but users can continue to enjoy their existing digital libraries. The refund policy for movies and TV shows will remain unchanged, with purchases being ineligible for refunds. Content portability options are available through Movies Anywhere for U.S. residents, but direct migration to alternative services is largely unavailable. Third-party entertainment services will continue to be available on Microsoft's platforms for new content purchases. The Movies & TV storefront has been operational since 2015, evolving from earlier services. Microsoft will maintain server infrastructure for existing content libraries and provide ongoing support for previously purchased content. Content licensing agreements will dictate the availability of purchased titles.