Windows users Archives

Winsage

February 10, 2026

10 open-source apps I recommend every Windows user download

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users, particularly on Windows. Notable applications include: 1. LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite with a customizable interface, supports MS Office formats, and is free to download. 2. Flow Launcher: A file search and application launcher that enhances efficiency, customizable, and free to use. 3. Duplicati: A zero-trust backup solution with encryption and scheduling features, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, free to install on Windows. 5. Franz: Consolidates multiple messaging platforms into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: Allows users to create custom top bars for system information and quick access controls, enhancing the user experience. 7. File Converter: Simplifies file conversion and compression within the Windows file manager, available for free. 8. Bitwarden: A password management tool with a free version and additional paid features for collaboration. 9. AutoHotKey: Automates tasks on Windows through scripting, free to install and use. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI interaction tool that prioritizes privacy, free to use on Windows.

Winsage

February 1, 2026

Windows 11 has 1 billion users

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced that Windows 11 has surpassed 1 billion monthly active users, following the end of support for Windows 10. Despite this milestone, there is significant customer dissatisfaction. Windows chief Pavan Davuluri acknowledged the need for improvements in system performance, reliability, and overall user experience. Recent updates have been problematic, with glitches reported during the first Patch Tuesday update of 2026. The integration of AI features has left some users feeling overwhelmed, while the constant upsell prompts for services like Xbox Game Pass and Microsoft 365 have been criticized as bloatware. Users have also expressed frustration over forced migrations to OneDrive, where files have been deleted without consent. Additionally, there is a notable disparity in support for home users compared to corporate users, raising concerns about Microsoft's commitment to enhancing the consumer experience.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

I Switched From Windows 11 to Linux Mint. Here Are 7 Things It Does Way Better

Linux Mint is a free operating system that can be downloaded without any licensing fees, in contrast to Windows 11, which costs between 9 for the Home Edition and 9 for the Pro Edition. It has minimal hardware requirements, running efficiently on traditional AMD- or Intel-based systems, with a 3GB installer and support for devices with as little as 2GB of RAM. Linux Mint features a cleaner and more organized desktop interface compared to Windows 11, with three different editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, catering to various user preferences. Users can test Linux Mint risk-free via live USB drives, and it operates without AI features, unlike Windows 11. It collects minimal diagnostic data, prioritizing user privacy. However, Linux Mint does not support major software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft 365 desktop applications, and some hardware drivers may be lacking. Users may need some technical knowledge for optimal use.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

‘Crashing’—Microsoft Issues Critical Warning For Windows Users

Microsoft has acknowledged an issue affecting PCs after a mandatory security update in January, resulting in a new variant of the black screen of death. The crashes are linked to devices that did not successfully install the December 2025 security update and became unresponsive when attempting to roll back the update. Microsoft is working on a partial resolution to prevent further no-boot scenarios, but this fix will not stop devices from entering the problematic state or restore functionality to those already affected. The issue primarily impacts commercial devices running Windows 11 KB5074109 (25H2 Build 26200.7623 and 24H2 Build 26100.7623). Affected users experiencing the Black Screen of Death with the UNMOUNTABLEBOOTVOLUME error will need to manually recover their computers using the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Microsoft’s Quiet Exodus: Why Enterprise Developers Are Abandoning Windows for Linux Workstations

Microsoft developers and enterprise technology leaders are increasingly choosing Linux over Windows for development tasks, driven by performance concerns, workflow inefficiencies, and the rise of cloud-native development. The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) has facilitated this shift by allowing developers to work in a Linux environment while still using Windows. Tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and Terraform, which are primarily designed for Linux, have led to a reevaluation of desktop strategies across various industries. Linux provides direct access to the same kernel and toolchain used in production, reducing discrepancies that can lead to bugs. It typically requires less memory at idle compared to Windows, making it more efficient for developers managing multiple containers or virtual machines. Microsoft has responded by investing in platform-agnostic tools like Visual Studio Code and embracing Linux on its Azure cloud platform, where over 50% of virtual machines run Linux. The introduction of WSL2 has improved compatibility and performance, but it has also highlighted Windows' limitations, leading to frustrations among developers. Security considerations favor Linux due to its open-source nature, allowing for greater customization and auditing. Financially, Linux can be more economical for enterprises due to lower licensing costs and reduced hardware requirements. Organizations that have switched to Linux report significant improvements in build times and overall developer experience. Hybrid strategies are emerging to accommodate developer preferences while ensuring security, with cloud-based development environments gaining traction. The trend toward Linux workstations reflects broader industry movements toward open source and platform independence, as companies adapt to attract and retain technical talent.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

Google Warns of Active WinRAR Exploits Targeting Unpatched Windows Systems

Google has raised concerns about ongoing cyberattacks exploiting a critical vulnerability in WinRAR, identified as CVE-2025-8088. This vulnerability allows malicious actors to deploy malware and espionage tools on unpatched systems. Users are advised to update WinRAR to the latest version, regularly check for software updates, employ comprehensive security solutions, and stay informed about cybersecurity threats.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

4 reasons why SteamOS is quietly winning over PC gamers — and why Windows won’t be dethroned any time soon

Windows 11 is versatile and meets user demands across various tasks, but it faces challenges in PC gaming due to its bloat and background processes. SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system, is gaining popularity among gamers, especially with the upcoming release of a new console-like Steam Machine in early 2026 and a variant of the Legion Go 2 gaming handheld in June 2026. SteamOS offers superior performance and efficiency, with less system overhead compared to Windows, although it still faces issues like anti-cheat compatibility. Community sentiment is shifting away from Windows due to dissatisfaction with Microsoft's updates and AI integration, leading many gamers to consider SteamOS as an alternative. Microsoft is aware of the need to improve Windows 11's gaming experience and has announced updates for 2026. Steam has a large user base, with 35 to 40 million users online at any time, providing a strong platform for promoting SteamOS. Despite the rise of SteamOS, Windows remains the most popular operating system and continues to manage a wide range of tasks effectively.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Microsoft Keeps Adding Windows Features, But Trust Keeps Eroding

Windows 11 has received mixed reviews, with users expressing dissatisfaction primarily due to unexpected changes, mandatory decisions, and problematic updates rather than performance issues. Microsoft frequently introduces new features, but these are often met with resistance due to a lack of user consent and clear communication. Recent Patch Tuesday updates have led to complications, diminishing user trust. Users desire clarity about changes, optional features, and centralized privacy controls. They seek a clearer relationship with Microsoft, which includes no advertisements in core interfaces, no mandatory features without opt-in, transparent communication, and meaningful feedback mechanisms. The bond between Microsoft and its users is strained, requiring clarity and consistency to rebuild trust.

Winsage

January 20, 2026

Microsoft veteran explains the one weird trick that made Windows 95 restart faster

Microsoft's Raymond Chen discussed the "Shift during Restart" trick in Windows 95, which allowed users to bypass a lengthy reboot process. This was achieved by sending the EW_RESTARTWINDOWS flag to the 16-bit ExitWindows function, leading to a series of shutdowns involving the 16-bit Windows kernel and the 32-bit virtual memory manager. The CPU would then revert to real mode, allowing win.com to take control and initiate protected-mode Windows. Chen explained that .com files are allocated all available conventional memory upon launch, which can be returned to the system. Win.com efficiently releases excess memory, but if another program occupies that space, memory fragmentation can occur, preventing win.com from restoring the system and resulting in a full reboot. This engineering solution provided a smoother user experience, contrasting with modern Windows users who face disruptive update notifications.

Tech Optimizer

January 20, 2026

10 Best Antivirus Software in 2026 (Tested for Windows, Mac & Mobile)

Antivirus software is still crucial in cybersecurity, with global cybercrime costs estimated at .5 trillion annually. In 2026, various antivirus options include: 1. Bitdefender: Online protection rate of 99.97% as of March 2025; free version available; paid plans start from .99. 2. Norton: Offers real-time protection, password manager, and cloud backup; plans start at an unspecified price. 3. Avast: Ideal for beginners; free version available; paid plans start around .88 per year. 4. McAfee: Unlimited device protection with privacy features; plans start from .99 per year. 5. Avira: Strong free option with real-time protection; free tier available; paid plans start at an unspecified price. 6. TotalAV: Reliable across multiple platforms with ad and browser protection; starting price around to . 7. Aura Antivirus: Focuses on identity security with credit monitoring; individual plan around .99/year. 8. Surfshark Antivirus: Bundled with VPN and privacy tools; approximately .49/month on a 27-month plan. 9. MacKeeper: Tailored for macOS with optimization tools; starting price around .95 to .95 per month. 10. AVG: Lightweight with high performance; free tier available; AVG Internet Security priced around .99 for the first year. Built-in functions can help remove malware without antivirus software.