1. Restart your PC regularly

2. Use Microsoft Edge instead of other web browsers

3. Disable startup programs

4. Run automatic Windows maintenance

In the Maintenance section, find Automatic Maintenance and select Start maintenance if you want to run it. If you want to adjust the schedule, click Change maintenance settings, select a convenient time for you, and check the box next to “Allow scheduled maintenance to wake up my computer at the scheduled time” if necessary. Click OK to save the changes.

5. Uninstall unused programs

6. Turn off search indexing

7. Disable visual effects

To do this, open the Control Panel and select System and Security. Under the System section, click Allow remote access to open the System Properties dialog box. Go to the Advanced tab and click Settings in the Performance section. Under the Visual Effects tab, select Adjust for best performance or manually uncheck options you don’t need.

8. Change the power settings

To do so, go to the Control Panel and select Hardware and Sound > Power Options, or right-click on the battery icon in the taskbar and select Power Options. Then, choose High Performance.

9. Turn off Windows tips and tricks

10. Disable Game Mode

By following these 10 simple tips, you can speed up your Windows 11 experience and make sure your computer is running at its best. Remember to regularly maintain your system and adjust settings as needed to keep things running smoothly.

For help optimizing your Windows 11 experience or troubleshooting any issues with performance, reach out to our experts.

Snap Layouts

Voice typing

For the initial use, Windows will install speech recognition software to enhance its accuracy and efficiency. Voice typing enables you to articulate your thoughts swiftly and accurately, making your keyboard a more versatile tool.

Focus Sessions

Use the PowerToys utility

• FancyZones: FancyZones allows you to create custom window layouts.
• PowerRename: PowerRename enables you to quickly rename multiple files at once.
• Image Resizer: Image Resizer lets you to quickly resize images.
• PowerToys Awake: PowerToys Awake prevents a computer from going to sleep, without the user having to manually change the power and sleep settings.

Virtual desktops

Improved clipboard

If you have more than one Windows device, you can use this feature on all of them. Here’s how: Go to Settings, then System, and click on Clipboard. Turn on “Clipboard history” and “Sync across devices.” Then, you can copy something on one device and paste it on another.

Need more productivity tips? Contact our professionals to boost your team’s performance and enhance overall productivity.

General Windows 11 shortcuts

Windows 11 Command Prompt shortcuts

Windows 11 File Explorer shortcuts

New Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts

Mastering these Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts can greatly enhance your productivity and efficiency. So, try incorporating these shortcuts into your daily routine and experience the optimum functionality of Windows 11.

If you want to find more ways to increase your productivity using Windows 11, call our experts today.

5 Types of PC clutter Your Windows computer may be running slower than expected due to five distinct types of clutter:

Windows updates: Failed update downloads and corrupted files can accumulate on your computer, negatively impacting performance. Identifying and removing these unwanted files is crucial to maintaining a clean system.

Registry bloat: Records of every file you delete or action you perform in Windows are stored in the computer’s registry. Over time, the registry can become cluttered, leading to decreased efficiency. Clearing unnecessary entries is essential to optimize your PC’s speed.

Error logs: Windows keeps log files whenever software crashes or encounters processing errors. Accumulation of these error logs can significantly slow down your computer. Regularly cleaning these logs is necessary for smoother performance.

User bloat: Large quantities of unorganized files, particularly on your desktop or in other directories, contribute to clutter. Organizing and removing unnecessary files will help enhance your computer’s responsiveness.

Bloatware: Unwanted preinstalled software, such as trial antivirus programs or games, occupies valuable resources like the central processing unit, random access memory, and storage. Moreover, bloatware poses security risks and may introduce malicious apps that compromise your personal information.

How to remove PC clutter To effectively eliminate the five types of PC clutter and restore your Windows 10 PC to optimal performance, follow these simple steps:

Run Disk Cleanup Running Disk Cleanup is an effective way to remove hidden junk files and free up valuable disk space on your Windows PC. Just follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and type “disk cleanup.”
2. Select Disk Cleanup from the list of results.
3. Select the drive you want to clean.
4. Click OK.
5. Under “Files to delete,” select the file types you want to get rid of.
6. Click OK.

Delete programs you don’t use To free up memory and storage space on your Windows PC, it’s essential to uninstall programs you no longer use or need. You can do this by following these steps:

1. Type “add or remove programs” in the search box located on the taskbar.
2. From the search results, select Add or remove programs to open the Apps & Features settings.
3. You will see a list of installed programs on your computer. Scroll through the list and identify the programs you want to remove. Look for programs that you rarely use or are no longer necessary.
4. Click on the program you’d like to uninstall.
5. Click the Uninstall button that appears below the program’s name.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation process.
7. Repeat the above steps for any other programs you wish to remove.

Personalized recommendations for tailored search results By analyzing users’ search history, browsing patterns, and online behavior, Bing and Edge can curate a personalized search experience, delivering content that is highly relevant and valuable. This tailored approach saves users time and effort, allowing them to find what they need quickly and effortlessly.

Intelligent voice search for hands-free interaction With the intelligent voice search capabilities built into Bing and Edge, users can now simply ask, and Bing and Edge will provide accurate and concise answers. This hands-free interaction makes search more convenient, especially in scenarios where users have limited mobility or prefer a more natural way of interacting with technology.

Visual search for instant results Visual search lets users search for information by simply uploading images or screenshots. Bing and Edge use image recognition technology to analyze the visual content and provide instant results, including related images, relevant web pages, and additional information. This feature is particularly useful when users want to learn more about a particular object, landmark, or product they come across online.

Streamlined shopping experience with product search With product search capabilities, users can now search for specific products and receive comprehensive information, including prices, reviews, and availability, directly within the search results. This streamlines the shopping process, empowering users to make informed purchasing decisions without the need to navigate through multiple websites.

Contextual suggestions for enhanced browsing Bing and Edge offer contextual suggestions to users, helping them discover new and relevant content based on their browsing habits. These suggestions appear as users navigate the web, offering additional articles, related topics, or websites of interest. By analyzing the user’s browsing history and interests, Bing and Edge provide a personalized and tailored browsing experience, ensuring access to engaging and valuable content.

Seamless integration with the Microsoft ecosystem As Microsoft continues to expand its suite of products and services, Bing and Edge act as the bridge that connects users to a cohesive and interconnected digital experience. With Bing’s and Edge’s integration with different Microsoft tools, users can access files, create documents, and collaborate with coworkers seamlessly.

Advanced security and privacy features Both Bing and Edge come with advanced built-in security features such as enhanced encryption and anti-phishing measures. These help create a safe environment for users to explore the web. Additionally, Microsoft’s commitment to privacy ensures that user data is handled responsibly and transparently, giving users peace of mind while they search and browse.

As Microsoft continues to invest in research and development, we can expect even more advancements and enhancements to Bing and Edge, making them the go-to choice for users seeking a comprehensive and intelligent way to search. To learn more ways of optimizing your Windows experience, give us a call today.

Understanding fragmentation

Fragmentation occurs when files are divided into smaller fragments scattered across your storage device, rather than being stored in contiguous blocks. This affects your computer’s performance in various ways. Firstly, accessing fragmented files requires the system to perform additional read/write operations, resulting in increased latency and slower response times. Secondly, fragmented files take up more physical space on the disk, leaving less room for new files and potentially causing storage limitations. Lastly, the increased workload on the system due to fragmentation can cause higher energy consumption, leading to decreased battery life for laptops and other portable devices.

The role of defragmentation

Defragmentation is the process of reorganizing fragmented files and optimizing the layout of data on your storage device. By rearranging the fragments of files into contiguous blocks, defragmentation not only improves file access times but also helps consolidate free space, allowing for more efficient allocation of new files and enhancing overall system performance.

Types of defragmentation

There are different types of defragmentation, depending on the operating system and the defragmentation tool being used. One common approach is offline defragmentation, where the computer is booted from a different operating system or a dedicated defragmentation tool. This method allows the defragmentation process to work on all files and system data without interference from the operating system or other running processes.

Another method is online defragmentation, which is performed while the operating system is running. Online defragmentation tools intelligently work in the background, analyzing disk usage patterns and defragmenting files and data as needed. This method ensures that the system remains operational during the defragmentation process, minimizing disruption to the user.

Benefits of regular defragmentation

There are many advantages to regularly defragmenting your computer:

• Improved file access speed: Defragmentation reduces the time it takes to access files by minimizing the distance the disk heads need to travel. With a defragmented drive, your computer can retrieve data more efficiently, leading to quicker file operations and a snappier user experience.
• Enhanced system stability: Fragmentation can contribute to system crashes and freezes. Defragmenting your storage device reduces the likelihood of such issues by improving data flow and reducing the strain on the system.
• Longer device lifespan: Regularly defragmenting your storage device can extend its life span. By minimizing the workload on the drive, defragmentation reduces wear and tear on the hardware components, potentially increasing the longevity of your device.
• Increased available storage space: Defragmentation consolidates files and frees up fragmented space, allowing for better space utilization. This ensures that you can make the most of your storage capacity and avoid running into storage constraints.
• Energy efficiency: By optimizing data placement and reducing unnecessary disk activity, defragmentation lowers energy consumption. This benefit is particularly valuable for laptops and other battery-powered devices, as it can result in longer battery life.

Make defragmentation a part of your regular maintenance routine to ensure your computer is operating at its best. Call our specialists today if you want to further enhance your Windows experience.

Disabling Cortana’s voice activation

One of the notable changes in Windows 11 is the integration of Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant, into the taskbar. However, some users might find Cortana’s voice activation disruptive or unnecessary. To disable it, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
2. Go to Apps > Installed apps > Cortana.
3. Click on the three dots next to the Cortana app and choose Advanced options.
4. Under Runs at log-in, set the toggle to Off.

Disabling system sounds

Windows 11 includes various system sounds that play during specific events or actions, such as startup, shutdown, and notifications. While most users don’t mind these sounds, they can be distracting especially during work hours. To disable system sounds, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
2. Go to Personalization > Themes > Sounds.
3. Under Sound Scheme, choose No Sounds from the drop-down menu.
4. Click on Apply then OK.

Disabling Windows snap assist

Windows Snap Assist is a feature that automatically organizes and resizes windows when dragging them to the edge of the screen. Many users find this helpful, especially when they’re multitasking. However, some users find it disruptive or prefer to manage Windows manually. To disable Windows Snap Assist, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
2. Go to System > Multitasking > Snap Windows and click the toggle to turn off Snap Assist.

Disabling Windows tips and suggestions

Windows 11 provides helpful tips and suggestions to guide users and introduce new features. However, if you find these prompts bothersome or prefer a more streamlined experience, you can disable them by following these steps:

1. Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
2. Go to System > Notifications > Additional settings.
3. Uncheck the Get tips and suggestions when using Windows checkbox.

Adjusting these settings allows you to regain control over your operating system and create an environment that works best for you. If you want to learn more about how to optimize your Windows 11 experience, give our experts a call today.

Setting up Windows Hello in Windows 11

Follow these two simple steps to setting up Windows Hello on your Windows 11 computer:

• Go to Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
• Under the “Ways to sign in” section, you’ll see options for setting up facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or a PIN code. Click on the option you want to set up and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. For example, if you want to set up facial recognition, click on Face recognition and then click on Set up.
Do note that you’ll need a camera and/or fingerprint scanner if you choose to set up facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. After you’ve set up Windows Hello, you can test it out by logging out of your computer and then logging back in. When you reach the login screen, Windows Hello should automatically detect your face, fingerprint, or PIN code and log you in.

Benefits of using Windows Hello

Now that you know how to set up Windows Hello in Windows 11, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of using this feature. Improved security: Windows Hello uses biometric authentication methods to ensure that only you can log in to your computer. This makes it more secure than traditional passwords, which can be easily guessed or stolen. Convenience: With Windows Hello, you don’t have to remember complex passwords or type them in every time you log in. You can simply scan your face or fingerprint or enter your PIN code to quickly and easily log in to your computer. Also, logging in with Windows Hello is much faster than typing in a password, especially if it’s long and complex, saving you time and effort. Versatility: Windows Hello supports multiple biometric authentication methods, so you can choose the one that works best for you. For example, if you have a device with a built-in fingerprint scanner, you can use that to log in. Alternatively, if you have a device with a built-in camera, you can use facial recognition. Compatibility: Windows Hello is compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, desktops, tablets, and even smartphones. As long as your device has the necessary hardware, you can use Windows Hello to log in. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up Windows Hello in just a few simple steps and start enjoying the benefits of password-free authentication. For more tips on how to get the most out of Windows 11, call our experts today.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
]]> https://www.objectiveuk.com/2023/04/19/how-to-optimize-windows-11-after-installation/ Wed, 19 Apr 2023 20:00:08 +0000 https://objective.miara.co.uk/how-to-optimize-windows-11-after-installation/ Microsoft Windows 11’s default settings can contain small and unnecessary elements, such as superfluous taskbar icons and unwanted applications that can affect your productivity. Here are some steps you can take to optimize your Windows 11 experience after installation.

Remove crapware

Like its predecessor, Windows 11 generates revenue for Microsoft through the inclusion of shortcuts on the Start menu during every new installation. These are third-party apps and services such as Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook that pay Microsoft in exchange for the exposure. However, these apps can take up disk space and decrease your computer’s performance.

Fortunately, these apps can be removed directly from the Start menu by following these simple steps:

1. Right-click on the icon of the app you want to remove and click Uninstall.
2. On the dialog box that appears, click Yes to confirm your choice.

Repeat this process if you want to remove more than one program.

Turn on Windows Sandbox

Windows Sandbox lets you set up a secure virtual machine (VM) without any complex configuration. This VM is completely isolated from your main system, allowing you to test unknown apps or visit suspicious websites without any risk. Once you’re done, simply close the sandbox and it will disappear completely, leaving no traces of your experimentation.

Unlike Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox utilizes the same virtualization features such as virtual hard drives and virtual switches, but you don’t need to turn on Hyper-V, and it uses only a small amount of system resources. Here’s how to turn on Windows Sandbox.

1. Click on the Search bar and type “Windows Features” to access the “Turn Windows Features On Or Off” dialog box.
2. Scroll down to the bottom of the list and click the checkbox next to the “Windows Sandbox” feature.
3. After restarting, you’ll find a Windows Sandbox shortcut on your Start menu.

It’s important to note that Windows Sandbox sessions are completely stripped down and contain few Microsoft apps. You can use the Windows Clipboard to copy and paste URLs into Microsoft Edge or to copy program files for further exploration within the sandbox.

Remove items from the taskbar

Windows 11 comes with a default taskbar setup that includes a search button, a task view button, and widgets. If you find these items distracting, you can clean up your taskbar by going to Start > Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and sliding all four switches to the left to remove the said items.

In addition to removing these shortcuts, the taskbar settings page provides more customization options. Users can expand the Taskbar Corner Overflow section to control which icons appear on the right side of the taskbar by default. Furthermore, those with multiple displays can click Taskbar Behaviors to adjust how the taskbar works on a second monitor.

Setup OneDrive

Microsoft’s cloud storage service, OneDrive, comes integrated with Windows 10 and 11. During your computer’s initial setup, you will be prompted to configure OneDrive, which will automatically connect if you sign in with your Microsoft account. To modify your settings, click the corner overflow icon, represented by an arrow, located in the right corner of your taskbar. Next, click on the OneDrive icon, which resembles a cloud, to open the OneDrive flyout.

Once opened, go to Help & Settings > Settings > Sync & Backup. Here, you can choose which files and folders you want to back up to OneDrive. You can also save images and videos from devices connected to your PC.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your experience with Windows 11 will be as smooth as possible.

If you want to learn more about how to get the most out of Windows 11, call our experts today.


Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
]]> https://www.objectiveuk.com/2023/03/31/3-reasons-not-to-bypass-windows-11s-tpm-requirement/ Fri, 31 Mar 2023 20:00:50 +0000 https://objective.miara.co.uk/3-reasons-not-to-bypass-windows-11s-tpm-requirement/ Microsoft released Windows 11 in October 2021. As of October 2022, only 15.44% of PCs around the world run the new operating system (OS); 71.29% are still using Windows 10. One possible reason for the slow adoption of the new OS is that Windows 11 would not install on devices that lack Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chips.

What is a TPM chip?

A TPM is a security chip that’s commonly found in the latest smartphones and PCs. It provides a hardware-based, tamper-resistant environment to create, store, and safeguard encryption keys in order to ensure secure access to data stored on a device. So if an unauthorized person gains access to your device and tries to tamper with your encrypted drives, the chip will stop the device from booting up.

Some apps and web services also use TPMs. For example, Outlook uses a TPM for managing encrypted emails. On the other hand, web browsers use TPM to store SSL certificates that are used to authenticate and create encrypted connections with websites.

Why shouldn’t you bypass Windows 11’s TPM requirement?

Some users find Windows 11’s TPM 2.0 requirement too restrictive. After all, they were able to use Windows 10 securely with just TPM 1.2 embedded in their devices. This has led them to search for ways to circumvent the TPM restriction so that their devices that don’t have the TPM 2.0 chip can still run the new OS. However, we recommend abiding by Windows 11’s hardware requirements instead for these reasons.

TPM 2.0 is more secure than TPM 1.2 TPM 2.0 provides higher levels of security, as it supports more and newer cryptographic algorithms than its predecessors. This enables it to create stronger keys, making devices that use it more challenging for cybercriminals to compromise.

Compatibility issues may arise Before releasing Windows 11, Microsoft tested the OS extensively on supported devices. This means that running Windows 11 on devices that don’t meet the hardware requirements may lead to compatibility issues that can create problems, such as glitches and even outright failure. Addressing such problems may end up becoming more expensive than simply purchasing supported devices to begin with.

Microsoft won’t release updates for unsupported devices Software updates are extremely important. They don’t only enhance the user experience through new features and quality-of-life upgrades, but updates also improve the OS’s defenses against even the newest cyberthreats. This means not receiving updates will put your device and business IT systems at greater risk of cyberattacks.

If you’re tempted to circumvent Windows 11’s hardware requirements, particularly those related to security, just keep this adage in mind: “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.”

To learn more about Windows 11 and how you can make the most out of its features, get in touch with us.


Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.
]]>