Windows users Archives

Winsage

March 3, 2026

Best Shortcuts for PC Users

Keyboard shortcuts for Windows 11 include: - Ctrl + c: Copy the selected text or file. - Ctrl + v: Paste the last item from the clipboard. - Ctrl + x: Cut the selected item. - Ctrl + z: Undo your last change. - Ctrl + y: Redo what was undone with Ctrl + z. - Alt + Tab: Switch between open windows on the desktop. - Copilot key1: Open Copilot, the AI assistant. For screen capturing using the Snipping Tool: - Windows logo key + Shift + s: Open Snipping Tool overlay for image capture. - Windows logo key + Shift + r: Open Snipping Tool overlay for video capture. - Print Screen (PrtSc): Take a static image snapshot of the entire screen. For managing windows and multitasking: - Snap to the left: Windows logo key + left arrow. - Snap to the right: Windows logo key + right arrow. - Maximize: Windows logo key + up arrow. - Minimize: Windows logo key + down arrow. For managing virtual desktops: - Create a desktop: Windows logo key + Ctrl + D. - Switch between desktops: Windows logo key + Ctrl + left/right arrow. - Close the current desktop: Windows logo key + Ctrl + F4. - Show desktops in the taskbar: Windows logo key + Tab.

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows 11 February 2026 Update Is Now Available With 3 New Features

Microsoft has released a non-security feature preview update for Windows 11, designated as version KB5077241, which introduces performance and visual enhancements. This optional update is available for all Windows 11 users and is not yet part of the stable channel, with a full release expected on March 10. Key features of the update include: 1. A built-in network speed test accessible via the taskbar, allowing users to evaluate their network connection's performance. 2. Improvements to the taskbar search function, enabling result previews without opening additional windows. 3. Minor system upgrades, including backup and restore options for select Windows Professional devices, new emojis, an updated accounts menu, a built-in system monitor, and a revamped widgets settings menu. 4. Enhancements to printing services, nearby sharing features, and Windows Update, along with new camera settings for supported devices. 5. Performance improvements in File Explorer, including more reliable window opening using shortcuts and the introduction of an "Extract All" option for non-ZIP archived folders. 6. Optimizations in the Network page of File Explorer for better device display and improvements in display responsiveness after sleep.

Winsage

February 23, 2026

Microsoft Copilot is the best productivity app on Windows, says Microsoft

Microsoft has announced that its AI-driven tool, Copilot, is the top productivity application for Windows, according to its list titled "Best productivity apps in Windows for getting more done," which only includes Microsoft applications. Copilot is designed to streamline tasks from the desktop, offering features like summarizing emails, creating checklists, drafting messages, and organizing projects. Microsoft is promoting Copilot's integration across its product suite, but the ranking's exclusion of third-party applications has raised questions among users. An alternative list featuring a mix of Windows-based and third-party applications is available for those seeking a broader perspective on productivity tools.

Winsage

February 22, 2026

You Can Now Install—and Update—Microsoft Store Apps Using the Command Line

Microsoft has introduced a new command line interface for the Microsoft Store, accessible through PowerShell by typing "store." Users must have all current Windows 11 updates installed for functionality. The interface features ASCII art and a list of sub-commands, allowing users to search, install, and update software with minimal keystrokes. Users can install applications without needing to remember exact names, and commands like "store install firefox" yield accurate results. Limitations include the inability to install applications not available in the Microsoft Store. Users can also search for apps, gain insights into specific applications, and browse categories. The command "store updates" allows users to manage application updates efficiently.

Winsage

February 21, 2026

You Can Now Install—and Update—Microsoft Store Apps Using the Command Line

Microsoft has introduced a new command line interface for the Microsoft Store that allows users to bypass the traditional interface for app installation and management. Users can access this feature by launching PowerShell and typing “store.” If the command doesn't work, ensuring Windows 11 updates are current may resolve the issue. The interface includes an ASCII art display and a list of sub-commands for searching, installing, and updating software with minimal keystrokes. Users can install applications by typing commands like “store install firefox,” which searches for the app and provides relevant information. The tool can only install apps available in the Microsoft Store, excluding some popular options. Users can also use commands like “store search” and “store browse-apps” to explore available applications. Additionally, the command “store updates” allows users to install all pending Store updates collectively or update individual apps. This new command line approach aims to enhance the speed and efficiency of software management on Windows.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Microsoft’s new Windows 11 speed test is just a link to Ookla’s Speedtest via Bing — button housed in the taskbar in latest Insider Preview build

The speed test feature has been introduced in Windows Insider builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918, allowing users to assess their internet connection directly from the taskbar. Users can access this feature by right-clicking the network icon or using the Wi-Fi/cellular quick settings, selecting "Perform speed test," which opens a streamlined version of Ookla's Speedtest interface in the default browser. The interface displays three key statistics: Latency, Download, and Upload. Additionally, the new Insider builds include new emojis, improved backup and restore capabilities, enhanced camera controls for supported devices, and native implementation of System Monitor (Sysmon) within Windows.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2026

How to Install McAfee Antivirus on Windows 11 or 10

Installing third-party antivirus software like McAfee on Windows 11 can be challenging due to the built-in Windows Security, which can complicate the installation process. Users may face issues such as silent failures from conflicting software, permission problems on restricted machines, or restrictions due to S Mode on new laptops. Windows 11 includes Windows Security, which is effective for malware protection, but McAfee may be necessary for compliance, additional features, or centralized protection for multiple devices. McAfee supports Windows 11 Home, Pro, and Education editions but not Enterprise. The minimum hardware requirements include a processor of 1 GHz or faster, at least 2 GB of RAM (4 GB recommended), 1.3 GB of free disk space, an internet connection for download and updates, and a display resolution of at least 1024×768. McAfee requires a persistent internet connection for activation and updates. Before installing McAfee, users should check if their device is in S Mode, as McAfee cannot be installed in this mode. They must remove any existing antivirus software completely, as leftover files can interfere with the installation. Users should also ensure that Windows 11 is up to date and verify that there is enough disk space available. To download McAfee, users should go directly to the McAfee trial page to avoid scams. After downloading, they need to run the installer and restart their computer after installation. Users should then activate McAfee, run a manual update, and conduct a full system scan. Common installation problems include freezes during download, errors due to S Mode, and issues with Windows Security not recognizing McAfee as the active antivirus. Users can verify that McAfee is functioning correctly by checking the system tray icon, Windows Security settings, and the McAfee dashboard. To uninstall McAfee, users should go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, select McAfee, and follow the prompts to remove it. After uninstallation, Windows Security will reactivate automatically. McAfee offers several plans for Windows users, including Basic, Essential, Premium, and Advanced, each with different features and device limits. The Basic plan is suitable for single-device users without additional needs, while families may benefit from the Essential or Premium plans.

Winsage

February 19, 2026

Windows 10 ESU update KB5075912 bumps 22H2 to Build 19045.6937

Microsoft has announced an update, identified as KB5075912, regarding Secure Boot certificates to enhance device security for Windows users. Key points include the introduction of new certificates to prevent unauthorized software during startup, improved compatibility with various hardware configurations, and a commitment to provide regular updates to these certificates.

Winsage

February 18, 2026

Ex-Microsoft executive says he fought against the removal of the vertical taskbar in Windows 11

Microsoft is reportedly planning to reintroduce the ability to relocate and resize the Windows 11 taskbar, a feature that was removed and led to user dissatisfaction. Former Microsoft executive Mikhail Parakhin criticized the removal of the vertical taskbar, stating it enhances productivity. Other former employees, including Andy Young, have also expressed dissatisfaction with Windows 11's design, particularly the Start Menu's performance issues. Microsoft is acknowledging the need to address user concerns and "pain points" within Windows 11 as it considers restoring customization options.

AppWizard

February 18, 2026

Fan group makes Unreal Tournament 2004 available to play for free and in 4K, with Epic’s permission

Unreal Tournament 2004 is now available for free play, thanks to the OldUnreal group, following Epic Games' permission for the fan group to distribute the game at no cost. The OldUnreal team has launched the game with a new patch, the first significant update in over two decades, allowing it to run on modern PCs with optimizations and bug fixes. Windows users can download an auto-installing .exe file from the OldUnreal website, while Linux and macOS users must download installers from the OldUnreal GitHub page and manually apply the patch. The OldUnreal group has also made other titles available for free, including Unreal Gold and Unreal Tournament: Game of the Year Edition. They are committed to releasing future patches to address existing bugs and new issues arising from modern systems. The group noted that some bugs are due to higher frame rates and others are legacy bugs. They are prioritizing fixes for significant gameplay issues, with many already addressed internally.