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Microsoft makes Chromium-based Edge beta available for Windows and macOS
Microsoft is taking another step with its Chromium-based Edge browser by officially releasing the beta version for Windows 10, 8, 7 and macOS.
Windows 10 Edge gets autoplay block but users also want to hide Bing bar
Microsoft Edge testers want to hide the Bing bar on new tabs and to be able to sign in with a Google account.
Microsoft rolls out two more Windows 10 19H2 builds, one with more new enterprise features
Microsoft's testing of the Windows 10 19H2 test builds continues, and some Slow Ring Insiders will be seeing a few new enterprise features.
Microsoft is using Dynamics 365 to manage Windows Update releases
Here's how Microsoft is using its own Dynamics 365 Customer Service offering to manage the publishing of not just Windows 10, but previous Windows client and server updates via Windows Update.
Microsoft: These Windows 10 updates fix broken Visual Basic apps but not for 1903
Microsoft rushes out fix for Visual Basic problems affecting Windows 10 to Windows 7, but version 1903's update won't arrive until August's end.
Google Chrome killing your device's battery life? This Microsoft fix will help
This Microsoft fix will help stop Google Chrome killing your device's battery life
Microsoft makes Notepad a separate Store app starting with new Windows 10 20H1 test build
Microsoft is continuing to make incremental improvements to Windows 10 20H1, due out next year, with test build 18963.
To patch Windows or not: Do you want BlueKeep bug or broken Visual Basic apps?
This week's Windows updates fix critical 'wormable' flaws but may also break Visual Basic apps, macros, and scripts. What should you do?
Windows 10 after four years: A solid report card, but serious challenges ahead
Four years after its launch, Windows 10 has gone from being a curiosity to owning a solid majority of the Windows desktop market. But Microsoft still has a tough challenge on its hands convincing Windows 7 holdouts to migrate.
Microsoft August 2019 Patch Tuesday fixes 93 security bugs
Of the 93 vulnerabilities Microsoft patched today, 29 are rated Critical and 64 are rated Important in severity.
Microsoft warns of two new 'wormable' flaws in Windows Remote Desktop Services
Microsoft warns of BlueKeep II & III. Says they're wormable, just like the original BlueKeep vulnerability.
Microsoft: Windows Virtual Desktop is now 'feature complete'
Next stop for Microsoft's Windows Virtual Desktop service is general availability, which could happen as soon as September 2019.
Vulnerability in Microsoft CTF protocol goes back to Windows XP
Insecure CTF protocol allows hackers to hijack any Windows app, escape sandboxes, get admin rights.
Researchers find security flaws in 40 kernel drivers from 20 vendors
Affected vendors include the likes of Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, ASRock, AMI, Gigabyte, Realtek, Huawei, and more.
How to speed up your old Windows 10 PC or Mac
Is your PC or Mac feeling old and tired? Here are two ways to inject new life into an aging computer.
How to perform a clean install of Windows 10: Here's a step-by-step checklist
A clean install is the perfect way to get a fresh start with a Windows PC. Use this checklist to make sure you take care of the small details that make a big difference in productivity
Linux survival guide: These 21 applications let you move easily between Linux and Windows
If you need to navigate regularly between Linux and the Windows world, there are many applications that can make your job easier. We spotlight 21 quality applications that will pave the way.
Windows 10 apps: Which are worth keeping? Which ones should you dump?
Every installation of Windows 10 includes a huge collection of built-in apps. Some are Universal apps that are updated from the Microsoft Store. Others are legacy apps that hang around because other programs expect them to be there. If you prefer a tidy system, many (but not all) of these apps can be uninstalled, especially if you prefer a third-party alternative. This gallery offers a comprehensive look at how to unclutter your copy of Windows 10.
Windows 10 May 2019 Update: The new features that matter most
Windows 10 version 1903, which will be officially dubbed the May 2019 Update, begins rolling out soon. Here are some of the new capabilities you can expect in yet another feature-packed semi-annual release. (This gallery is based on a near-final Insider Preview release.)
Windows 10 October 2018 Update: The new features that matter most
Windows 10 version 1809, officially the October 2018 Update,started rolling out October 2. Here are some of the new capabilities you can expect in this surprisingly feature-packed release. (This gallery is based on a near-final Insider Preview release.)
How to run Windows 10 and Windows applications on your Mac
macOS is a great platform, but there are times when some Mac users still need access to Windows and Windows apps.
Here's what's new in Windows 10 April 2018 Update
The latest Windows 10 feature update includes the first public release of the Timeline feature as well as dozens of smaller enhancements to the Windows 10 user experience. Here's what you can expect.
16 Cortana shortcuts, secrets, and power tips
The Cortana web service is tightly tied to Windows 10, which means you can get instant answers to some common questions and calculations without having to open a web browser. Here are 16 tricks that work directly in the Windows 10 search box.
In Memoriam: All the consumer products Microsoft has killed off
In the early days of the PC revolution, Microsoft aggressively pursued the consumer market with products and services built for fun and games. In recent years, with the notable exception of Xbox and related gaming products, Microsoft has been killing off those products. Here's a look at the departed.
Build yourself a Windows-powered iMac Pro clone
Like the look of Apple's new iMac Pro workstation, but you're a Windows user so macOS is a no-go zone for you? No worries! You can get all the power and performance of the iMac Pro while still being able to run Windows.
No TPM (Trusted Platform Module) in your PC? No problem, here's how to fit one
Want to use the Windows BitLocker feature but there's no TPM in your PC? No problems. Here's how you can fit one yourself for under $20.
Windows 10 problem solvers: My must-have utilities (and many are free)
Sometimes, Windows can be very frustrating. These are my 15 go-to tools for eliminating annoyances.
Top Windows 10-powered alternatives to the MacBook Pro (2017 edition)
Those who want a Windows powered laptop don't have to feel jealous of those who choose the macOS path, because there are some truly awesome Windows 10 laptops available.
Ed Bott's 10 most popular Windows 10 tips
How well do you know the ins and outs of Microsoft's flagship operating system? Every week, Windows expert Ed Bott delivers a new trick or shortcut. We've collected his most popular tips.
Build a $400 Windows 10 PC
Looking to build a cheap Windows 10 PC? Here are the components you need to build a system that comes in at $400, including Windows 10! As always, shop around for the best deal on components, and remember that component prices change regularly. (Updated November 2016)
Why is Windows Defender so successful?
Microsoft claims it rules the Windows antivirus world, with Defender on over half a billion PCs.
Why did the Windows Phone fail?
Windows Phone might have survived if Microsoft hadn't make these mistakes, says a former Nokia engineer. Read more: https://zd.net/2MGq3wn
US cybersecurity firm selling weaponized BlueKeep exploit
An exploit for a vulnerability that Microsoft feared it may trigger the next WannaCry is now being sold commercially.
What to do when your Windows laptop's battery begins to fail
Are you finding that the battery in your Windows laptop isn't lasting as long as it used to? Here how to tell if it is getting worn. Read more: https://zd.net/2LJzPxh
Microsoft's plan to split Windows 10 from shell is happening
Windows 10 preview shows signs of Windows OS separating from the shell in line with Microsoft's modular plans.
Windows malware uses legitimate P2P network to hide
Researchers have detailed the newly uncovered malware, but it's still uncertain what the goal of the botnet campaign is.
Apple and Microsoft make life easier for iPhone and Windows 10 users
Microsoft unveils a new Apple iCloud for Windows app that integrates with Windows 10 File Explorer.
A single actor is scanning Windows systems vulnerable to the BlueKeep flaw
A threat actor hidden behind Tor nodes is scanning for Windows systems vulnerable to BlueKeep flaw. Read more: https://zd.net/2JWjK73
Wary of hacking, China will develop its own operating system for the military
Chinese military won't replace Windows with Linux, but develop a custom OS instead.
Microsoft offers preview of blockchain-based identity system
Microsoft has improved the scalability of its ION bitcoin blockchain-based distributed identity system. But it's still early days.
Microsoft's golden rules for safe enterprise networks
Microsoft recommends using a separate device for administrative tasks.
Microsoft Build 2019: Azure, Microsoft Graph, IoT and IE mode highlights
ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley handicaps Microsoft's vision to lead with its three core clouds: Azure, Microsoft 365 and gaming. Here's the plan and other goodies developers will get. Read more: https://zd.net/2Wtzlh5
Developer conferences: Have they jumped the shark and forgotten about developers?
ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley and Larry Dignan lament how developer conferences such as Microsoft Build, Google I/O, Facebook F8 and Apple WWDC are more about corporate vision statements and less about the actual tools developers actually use. Read more: https://zd.net/2V0mt0A
Researcher creates SMBdoor based on NSA malware for security purposes
New experimental backdoor highlights an OS section that antivirus products are not looking at.
Microsoft Outlook’s AI features: Big help or Big Brother?
Microsoft aims to cut the hassle of arranging meetings for Office 365 users with AI email and calendar suggestions. Read more: https://zd.net/2FZDSC1
Windows 10 Technical Preview for Enterprise: Key features yet to appear
The technical preview of Windows 10 is heavy on tools for the power desktop user that businesses will want to evaluate, but the most important features will be visible later in the preview cycle.
Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review: Impressive hybrid tablet, but keyboard should be bundled
If you need a Windows 8.1 computer that's flexible enough to be a tablet, a laptop (if you add the optional keyboard) and even (if you add the optional docking station) a desktop PC, then the Surface Pro 3 manages the trade-offs as well as anything on the market.
Acer Iconia W4 review: Affordable 8-inch Atom-based Windows tablet
This affordable 8-inch Atom-based (Bay Trail) Windows 8.1 tablet has a nice IPS screen and delivers all-day battery life under light usage modes. Limited screen size, internal storage and processing power will prevent it from being more than a companion device for mobile professionals though.
Asus Transformer Book T100 review: A netbook in hybrid tablet disguise
The 10.1-inch Transformer Book T100 is a well made and attractively priced hybrid Windows 8.1 tablet. However, its moderate specification and small size make it difficult to recommend as your primary Windows device.
Microsoft Surface Pro 2 review: Better, but too heavy and too expensive
The Haswell-based Surface Pro 2 delivers improved performance and battery life, and its dual-angle kickstand is also welcome. However, the Pro 2's unchanged chassis design feels bulkier and heavier than ever, and it becomes very expensive when fully accessorised.
Nokia Lumia 1020 review: A photographer's smartphone
The Lumia 1020 has a truly impressive 41-megapixel camera and a high-quality 4.5-inch AMOLED screen, but many Windows Phone fans might do better with the 920 and a good dedicated camera.
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix review: high-quality tablet/ultrabook
This excellent Windows 8 tablet/ultrabook hybrid has a well-designed keyboard docking mechanism, typically solid build quality and a specification well suited to mainstream business use. It has a hefty price tag, though, and the lack of SD-based storage expansion is perplexing.
Nokia Lumia 925 review
The Lumia 925 is a slimmer and lighter Windows Phone 8 handset than its 920 predecessor, with a neater and more ergonomic design. It lacks integrated wireless charging but supports LTE and NFC, and has an excellent 4.5in. AMOLED screen.
HP ElitePad 900 review
Although it's well built and delivers decent battery life, the ElitePad 900's combination of a basic Atom-based tablet and a range of optional extras is an expensive way to build a work-ready system.
Panasonic Toughpad FZ-G1 review
The chunky Toughpad FZ-G1 has a high-resolution outdoor-visible screen, is moderately rugged, and delivers decent performance and middling battery life with the standard battery. The biggest drawback, however, is the price.
Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 2 review
Although it's expensive for a moderate-performing Atom-based Windows 8 tablet, the ThinkPad Tablet 2's design and build quality are excellent, while pen support is a real bonus.
Dell Latitude 10 review
The Atom-based Latitude 10 is short on performance, but delivers excellent battery life — especially with the optional 4-cell battery. Although some aspects of the industrial design and build quality could be better, this is a decent business-class Windows 8 tablet.
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Google Chrome killing your device's battery life? This Microsoft fix will help
