Microsoft Tips, Tricks & Info
2026APR07
Table of Contents / Source:
Still on Windows 10? Do this now to reduce your risk of getting hacked
Support for Windows 10 may have ended last year, but despite the potential security risks, Windows 11's growth is still stalled. Now, Microsoft is making it difficult to stick to Windows 10, cutting off Secure Boot certificates in June. However, not every existing PC is compatible with Windows 11, and with rising RAM prices and tariffs complicating things, "just buy a new computer" is an expensive and out-of-touch suggestion. So how long can you safely run Windows 10? I'm here to answer that question.
Further reading:
- It's time to give up your Windows 10 PC—here's 5 ways to make the switch to Windows 11 easier - howtogeek.com
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Upgrade Now: Microsoft Issues Security Warning to Those Still on Windows 10
Upgrade Now: Microsoft Issues Security Warning to Those Still on Windows 10.
Further reading:
- Microsoft rolls out new Secure Boot certificates before June expiration - bleepingcomputer.com
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Microsoft now force upgrades unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 PCs
Starting this week, Microsoft has begun force-upgrading unmanaged devices running Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions to Windows 11 25H2.
According to the company's Lifecycle Policy site, Windows 11 24H2 will reach end of support in roughly six months, on October 13, 2026.
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Microsoft Is Testing a New Feature That Will Force Edge Browser to Auto-Open
Some users are finding the change frustrating, but here's how to turn it off.
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Your computer slows down when RAM is full. Try these solutions
A snail could win a race against your PC when it’s stuck grinding through simple work. When blame gets handed around, RAM usually takes the hit. Stuff crammed into memory forces the machine to trip over itself handling what’s running. Swapping out hardware? Not automatically needed. Breathing space shows up when memory routines change - no extra hardware needed. Once RAM works more like a careful planner, things start moving again. Gains slip in quietly. Soon enough, clicks meet screens faster than before.
Further reading:
- I compared virtual RAM with real RAM on my Windows PC - here's what the numbers told me - zdnet.com
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The Best Free Software: 66 Editor-Selected Essentials
In this economically uncertain time, you can't beat free! These top-notch app picks across eight key categories will make you more productive, more creative, and more secure on your PC.
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Is Your Gmail Username Embarrassing? You Can Finally Change It
A new feature allows Google Account users in the US to update their Gmail address.
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I used Gmail's AI tool to do hours of work for me in 10 minutes - with 3 prompts
I just had a 'living in the future' moment with Gmail, of all things. Here's what happened.
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Samsung Will Shut Down Its Messages App Soon. What to Do Next
Using Samsung's texting app on your Galaxy phone? Get ready to move to something else, like Google Messages.
Further reading:
- Samsung will discontinue its Messages app in July and replace it with Google's - engadget.com
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The one thing you should never plug into a smart plug (and what to use instead)
Smart plugs are probably the best smart home upgrade of them all, turning dumb old devices like lamps and fans into modern connected ones that you can automate. But they also have one dangerous limitation, which is why some devices should never be used with them.
