Microsoft Tips, Tricks & Info
2025MAR04
Table of Contents / Source:
Microsoft hangs up on Skype for good
Microsoft said it planned to shut down Skype in May.
It paid $8.5 billion for the internet calling platform in 2011.
Skype said users would be invited to switch to Microsoft Teams ahead of the switch-off.
Further reading:
- Microsoft Kills Skype: Here’s The Deadline And What To Do When - forbes.com
- The next chapter: Moving from Skype to Microsoft Teams - microsoft.com
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7 Tests to Run Before Buying a Used Windows PC or Laptop
Purchasing a used computer can be a smart choice if you're on a limited budget. While a discounted Windows device may seem tempting, it's important to proceed with caution and run a few essential tests to avoid unexpected issues down the line.
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How to solve the dreaded Blue Screen of Death on Windows PCs
This article shows several ways to access a system that no longer shows a desktop.
The causes of the complete crash are varied and not always easy to discern. We describe how the error can be investigated in more detail and what measures can be used to repair a defective Windows system.
Further reading:
- Your Windows PC refuses to start. Now what? - pcworld.com
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6 Reasons You Need an External Drive (Even If You Have Cloud Storage)
There was a moment not too long ago where if you had a computer, you probably also had a flash drive. Now many of us are mostly on our phones and default to cloud storage.
Here's the thing—modern flash drives and external SSDs are better than they have ever been. As recurring data leaks are keen to remind us, personal drives absolutely have their place.
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How to dispose of your old tech and electronics (and make a bit of money)
The message from manufacturers is that you always need the next shiny new model. And unfortunately, with technology changing so fast, the reality is our old laptops, phones and other gadgets become obsolete frighteningly quickly.
Further reading:
- Turn in your old electronics for cash - wpxi.com
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10 hidden Microsoft Word features you should know about
If you want to increase your mastery of Microsoft Word, here are 10 hidden features of the word processor you may be surprised to learn.
Further reading:
- 6 Tips for Using Microsoft Word for Note-Taking - makeuseof.com
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The ultimate guide to using Microsoft Phone Link on your Windows PC
Microsoft's Phone Link app is a native Windows app that comes preinstalled on all Windows 11 machines. Using this app, you can link your smartphone -- an Android device or an iPhone -- to your Windows PC and perform a bunch of tasks between them.
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Wi-Fi Calling vs. Cellular Calling: Which Is Best?
Wi-Fi and cellular calling both provide cost-effective means and reliability in today’s connected world. But choosing which one delivers better quality depends entirely on location and your preference.
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How to automatically delete OTPs in Google Messages
No matter how many passkeys or authentication apps you use, chances are, you still run into two-factor authentication codes often. Those are the usually four or six-digit OTPs that help you sign into an online account or service. They're used immediately, but continue to clog up your inbox unless you delete them manually. That is, unless you set up Google Messages to trash them automatically using the steps below.
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5 Ways You Should Use Your Smart TV's USB Port
You’ve probably noticed the USB port on your smart TV, but have you ever actually used it? That little port can do a lot more than you might expect.
