Microsoft Tips, Tricks & Info
2025SEP30
Table of Contents / Source:
Don't Miss This Windows 10 Deadline for Another Year of Free Support
The deadline to upgrade to Windows 11 is nearly here, with support for Windows 10 ending on Oct. 14. If your PC isn't compatible with the newer OS or if you're not ready to upgrade, you have some options.
Further reading:
- Can't upgrade your Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options - and 3 weeks to act - zdnet.com
- How to use Windows 10 ESU to keep getting updates after October 2025 - windowscentral.com
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How to easily switch your PC from Windows to Linux Mint - for free
I've used many Linux distros over the years, and this is the one I recommend the most. Here's why and how to try it.
Further reading:
- Trying Linux as a Complete Beginner - YouTube.com
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I finally disabled these Windows services and my PC is happier for it
Your Windows PC runs dozens of background services, each quietly working to enhance functionality, maintain compatibility, or collect data for Microsoft. Some of these services are essential...but, among them, there are also services that aren’t particularly useful.
Further reading:
- 12 tweaks to make your Windows PC lean, mean, and fast - pcworld.com
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How to Clear Your PC's Cache in Windows 10
As with clearing the cache in your browser, clearing the cache in Windows is a good start for troubleshooting system issues, improving system performance, and freeing up disk space.
Further reading:
- How to Clear Your Cache on Windows 11 - howtogeek.com
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This Windows 11 repair trick fixes nearly every Windows problem
Whether you're using one of the best laptops on the planet, a custom PC build, or something in between, gaining file corruption is an unavoidable part of computing. Windows has tools to combat this, but you might wonder if they work just as well when your computer can't connect to the internet.
The good news is that both the System File Checker and the powerful Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool work just as well offline as online, and can fix a myriad of misfortunes with both Windows 11 and Windows 10.
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I used Microsoft Office, Photoshop, and more on Linux with WinApps — here's how it went
I've been an increasingly big fan of Linux as my primary operating system in favor of Windows 11. However, Linux has a big problem: the apps you're familiar with on Windows and macOS may not be available there. Thankfully, solutions like WinApps try to bridge the gap by bringing Windows apps to the Linux desktop through a clever use of virtualization.
Further reading:
- Switching to Linux: How to Replace Everyday Apps With Open-Source Alternatives - howtogeek.com
- I recommend people use these apps when moving from Windows to Linux - xda-developers.com
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Microsoft just added AI agents to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint - how to use them
Available for Microsoft 365 Copilot users, the new agents will help you create, edit, and analyze your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
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How to turn on Android's Private DNS mode - and why it makes such a big difference
Unencrypted DNS requests can expose your browsing activity, but Android's Private DNS Mode adds a layer of privacy. Here's how to enable it.
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Weak Wi-Fi? How to get wired internet at home without running an Ethernet cable
If you have cable outlets, you can convert them into high-speed internet ports using a simple adapter. No rewiring needed.
