Windows: Buying Advice, Tips, and News

We're attending Microsoft's annual Build Conference in person, covering all the Windows announcements, demos, and surprises. AI is sure to be a huge focus, and we might get some more details on the latest Surface hardware. Stay tuned for all the Build news as it happens.

Microsoft's developer-focused Build conference is usually heavy on technical details, but it's still the best way to get a sneak peek into what the company has in store for your Windows PC. I'll be on the ground in San Francisco to cover everything as it happens.

iCloud Photos is Apple's preferred way for iPhone users to sync their photos, but if you use a Windows PC, I strongly suggest Microsoft's OneDrive for backups and syncing.

From quick keyboard shortcuts to AI-powered OCR and GIF creation, Windows 11 includes far more screenshot tools than most people realize.

You don't have to wait for the next big update—these Windows 11 changes are already being tested in Insider builds right now.

The update is optional, but it should increase load times for key Windows features like the Start menu, search, or Action Center.

I installed Microsoft's free PC Manager tool to see if a single click could actually make a difference on a sluggish computer.

The Messages app is built into macOS, but what about Windows? With Microsoft's Phone Link app, you can respond to texts right from your computer as you work.

SMS-based authentication is convenient, but it's also a leading source of fraud, Microsoft says.

Windows 11 is full of powerful features and useful tweaks. Take a tour of these off-the-beaten-path options to customize, optimize, and secure your PC.

If you install something that doesn't work for your Windows machine, Microsoft will roll it back.

Want to peek at the latest preview edition of Windows 11? Microsoft just simplified its Windows Insider Program, making it easier than ever to be the first to use upcoming features.

'Apple does this and y'all love it,' argues Microsoft VP Scott Hanselman.

Dragging your feet on an OS upgrade? Here are the easiest ways to check out Windows 11.

If Microsoft wants to regain users, it has to start by fixing the apps that define Windows itself.

Low Latency Profile reportedly speeds up app launch times by up to 40%.

The developer of an unauthroized Mac version of NotePad++ says he'll change the name to Nextpad++ for Mac to avoid creating confusion.

I installed AppControl on my Windows 11 PC and was shocked by how much was happening in the background without me knowing.

Protect your PC and storage drive from unauthorized access. Here’s how and why I enable BitLocker on all my Windows computers.

The change will hide the MSN News feed and its in-your-face articles, creating a more minimalist look. Microsoft is signaling it wants the OS to feel more 'calm' in the default settings.