The Ed Bott Report

Microsoft plans to build ad blocker into its Microsoft Edge browser

In a session for Web developers today, Microsoft highlighted ad blocker capabilities in its Edge browser. [Updated with comment from Microsoft]

March 30, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

Microsoft says Windows 10 is now running on 270 million devices

In the opening keynote for its Build conference in San Francisco, Microsoft's Terry Myerson announced that the number of active devices has risen sharply since the start of the year. But can that pace continue?

March 30, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

Windows 10 tip: Find any setting in seconds

One confusing aspect of Windows 10 is the way it keeps some options in the old-style Control Panel and others in the new Settings app. The good news is you don't have to guess where to look, once you learn these two search secrets.

March 30, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

How to block Windows 10 upgrades on your business network (and at home, too)

Microsoft's aggressive upgrade campaign for Windows 10 rubs some people the wrong way. Here's how to say no to the new version in 30 seconds or less, without installing third-party software. UPDATED 12-Mar-2016

March 29, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

Sticking with Windows 7? The forecast calls for pain

For small businesses and consumers without enterprise deployment tools, a clean install of the aging Windows 7 can take a full day. And the problem's getting worse. Here's why.

March 25, 2016 by Ed Bott in Enterprise Software

Windows 10 tip: Disable annoying app notifications

By default, Windows 10 apps (even desktop programs like Outlook) can interrupt you with notifications. Here's how to take control of those pop-ups and sounds so they don't become a distraction.

March 23, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

Windows 10 tip: Reclaim precious disk space with these storage tools

Is your Windows 10 laptop or tablet running low on free space? Built-in storage management tools let you pinpoint exactly which files and apps are to blame. In many cases, you can recover that free space with just a click or two.

March 16, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

Microsoft updates ready-to-run Windows 10 virtual machines for developers

Want to kick the tires on Windows 10 developers' tools without the headache of building a separate test machine? Microsoft just released updated versions of its ready-made virtual machines, suitable for Macs or PCs. Here's what's inside.

March 10, 2016 by Ed Bott in Enterprise Software

Windows 10 tip: Hunt down battery-draining apps

Buried deep in the Settings app on a Windows 10 laptop or tablet is a list of which apps and desktop programs have been burning through your battery lately. You'll also find special Battery Saver settings that can extend your remaining battery life dramatically.

March 9, 2016 by Ed Bott in Windows 10

When will Microsoft pull the plug on your version of Windows or Office?

Windows 7 is still wildly popular on desktop and laptop PCs, but the support clock is ticking. What happens when time runs out? And how long until other currently supported versions of Windows and Office suffer the same fate?

March 4, 2016 by Ed Bott in Enterprise Software

Microsoft goes all in with Android apps for business

In the past year, Microsoft has been delivering apps at breakneck speed to the Google Play Store. Some are strictly for fun, but the majority are aimed at Microsoft's bedrock business customers. Here's an overview of what you'll find for your Android phone.

March 4, 2016 by Ed Bott in Mobility

10 must-have Microsoft apps for your Android phone

Surprise! Microsoft is among the most prolific developers of apps for the Android platform. And Redmond has turned on the afterburners in the past year, releasing a string of quality business-focused apps. Here are my 10 picks for the best of the bunch.

March 4, 2016 by Ed Bott in Enterprise Software