Windows PCs Archives

Winsage

August 7, 2025

These 9 File Explorer alternatives make your Windows PC so much better

Windows Explorer has a basic interface that can hinder file management, prompting the development of alternative "commander" tools. These alternatives include single-window and dual-window applications designed to improve file management on Windows PCs. Free Commander XE features a dual-window layout with tabs for quick access and modern icons, allowing users to manage ZIP files and synchronize folders. Multi Commander also uses a dual-window approach, supports bulk file renaming, and offers a portable version. Double Commander is an open-source option with a familiar interface, capable of creating symbolic links and synchronizing folders. One Commander allows toggling between single and dual-window views and includes customizable features. Paid file managers like Total Commander, SpeedCommander, and XYplorer offer advanced functionalities, including FTP capabilities and scripting options. Q-Dir can open four windows simultaneously and provides extensive customization. File Voyager features a two-window view but may have stability issues. For Android devices, Google Files, Total Commander, and X-plore are notable file management apps, each offering various features for organizing and accessing files.

Winsage

July 31, 2025

Opera complains over Microsoft Edge persuasion tactics

Opera has filed a complaint with Brazil's Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) against Microsoft, alleging anti-competitive practices that favor the Edge browser. The complaint claims that Microsoft uses "all-or-nothing" bundled rebates to ensure PC manufacturers pre-install Edge as the default browser and employs "dark pattern tactics" that disregard users' browser choices and restrict switching from Edge in Windows "S mode." In Brazil, Opera's market share is 6.78%, compared to Edge's 11.52% and Chrome's 74.95%. Opera's General Counsel, Aaron McParlan, advocates for a browser choice screen similar to one previously mandated by the EU. Additionally, Opera has filed an appeal with the EU General Court regarding the European Commission's decision not to classify Edge as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act. Microsoft has not yet commented on the complaint.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Windows 10 turns ten years old today

Microsoft released Windows 10 on July 29, 2015, as a response to dissatisfaction with Windows 8. The operating system replaced the touch-centric design of Windows 8 with a more traditional desktop experience and began to surpass Windows 7 in popularity between spring 2017 and early 2018. By the end of 2021, over 80 percent of Windows computers were running Windows 10, aided by free upgrade offers. Jerry Nixon, a senior developer at Microsoft, referred to Windows 10 as the "last Windows," a sentiment echoed in the Windows Internals manual. However, Windows 11 was announced on June 24, 2021, and officially released on October 5, 2021. Despite free upgrades from Windows 10, Windows 11 has struggled to gain popularity due to its lack of groundbreaking features and stringent system requirements. As of now, Windows 10 remains installed on over half of all Windows PCs and laptops. General support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, after which users will no longer receive security updates.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

Your Android phone can now control more of your PC, and here’s how

Microsoft is updating its Link to Windows app for Android, introducing new features that enhance connectivity between Android devices and Windows PCs. Users can now remotely lock their Windows PCs, check battery and Wi-Fi status from their phones, and cast their phone's screen without using the PC app. These features, previously in development channels, are being rolled out through the Insider program. The app also allows direct file transfers without using Android’s share sheet, provides access to recent files, and enables viewing the clipboard from the PC. Additionally, the app has a refreshed interface for improved usability. Users can join the Insider program to access these updates by ensuring they have version 1.25071.155 of the app and following specific steps in Windows Settings to enable the new features.

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 25, 2025

I have a lot of Windows PCs, and these are my 6 tips for managing multiple Windows PCs at home

To manage multiple Windows 11 PCs effectively, consider the following practices: 1. Use Windows Backup to back up settings and app lists to the cloud, simplifying device setup and restoration. A Microsoft account is required for this feature. 2. Disable OneDrive folder backups to avoid complications from limited free storage and syncing issues. 3. Utilize the Windows Package Manager (winget) to manage applications across devices by exporting and importing lists of installed apps. 4. Enable nearby sharing in the Settings app to transfer files between devices without internet reliance. 5. Use a software KVM, like Microsoft's Mouse Without Borders, to control multiple PCs with a single keyboard and mouse. 6. Implement a remote desktop tool, such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, for remote access and control of other PCs.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Microsoft is adding powerful new ways to link your phone and PC

Microsoft is testing new features for its Phone Link application to improve integration between Android devices and Windows PCs. Upcoming updates will allow users to remotely lock their PC and access its clipboard from an Android device. Users must enable specific features in Windows settings to utilize these functions, such as using an Android phone as a webcam or accessing files through Windows File Explorer. Recent observations indicate a new toggle for accessing the PC's clipboard, enabling a connected Android phone to retrieve text and images copied on the PC, though this feature currently works only in one direction. Two-way clipboard synchronization options are available through SwiftKey and Phone Link, but the latter is not available for Google Pixel devices. The Link to Windows app is also being enhanced, including a history of copied items and a remote lock PC button, which requires enabling the "Remote PC controls" toggle.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Previewing a refreshed Link to Windows experience for Android phones

An update for the Link to Windows app has been rolled out for Windows Insiders, featuring a modernized design, enhanced onboarding, and new capabilities for managing PCs from Android devices, including the ability to lock the PC remotely. The app now serves as a hub for connected experiences, allowing users to view recent activity, monitor their PC's status, send files, and mirror their phone's screen. The onboarding process has been improved to enable setup directly from Android devices. To try the new experience, users must ensure they have the latest Windows Insider Preview build and the correct version of the Link to Windows app, and they need to pair their Android phone with their PC. Feedback can be provided through the app or the Feedback Hub.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Microsoft’s phone app can now remotely lock your PC

Microsoft is introducing a new feature in the updated Link to Windows app for Android devices that allows users to remotely lock their PCs. This feature enhances security by enabling users to secure their PCs even when they are not physically present. The update also reorganizes the app's interface for improved usability and is available in version 1.25071.165 or higher.

AppWizard

July 24, 2025

You can now lock your Windows machine via an Android phone app you may already have

Users can now lock their PCs remotely through the Link to Windows app on Android, enhancing security by allowing users to secure their device with a "Lock PC" button. This feature disables the Phone Link functionality while the computer is locked. To use this feature, users must have Link to Windows version 1.25071.165 or later installed.