CINXE.COM

<!doctype html> <html data-n-head-ssr lang="en" data-edition="us" data-n-head="%7B%22lang%22:%7B%22ssr%22:%22en%22%7D,%22data-edition%22:%7B%22ssr%22:%22us%22%7D%7D"> <head >  <meta data-n-head="ssr" charset="utf-8"><meta data-n-head="ssr" name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="description" name="description" content="ZDNET news and advice keep professionals prepared to embrace innovation and ready to build a better future."><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="og:site_name" property="og:site_name" content="ZDNET"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="og:description" property="og:description" content="ZDNET news and advice keep professionals prepared to embrace innovation and ready to build a better future."><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="fb:app_id" property="fb:app_id" content="136759700898"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="twitter:site" name="twitter:site" content="@ZDNET"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="twitter:creator" name="twitter:creator" content="@ZDNET"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="twitter:card" name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="twitter:description" name="twitter:description" content="ZDNET news and advice keep professionals prepared to embrace innovation and ready to build a better future."><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="theme-color" name="theme-color" content="#080A12"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="referrer" name="referrer" content="no-referrer-when-downgrade"><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8">window.$neutronWindowPromises = {}; window.$neutronWindowPromises['cohesion'] = new Promise((resolve) => { var value = undefined; Object.defineProperty(window, 'cohesion', { get: function () { return value; }, set: function (newValue) { value = newValue; if (value) resolve(); } }); }); window.$neutronWindowPromises['tagular'] = new Promise((resolve) => { var value = undefined; Object.defineProperty(window, 'tagular', { get: function () { return value; }, set: function (newValue) { value = newValue; if (value) resolve(); } }); }); window.$neutronWindowPromises['_Cohesion'] = new Promise((resolve) => { var value = undefined; Object.defineProperty(window, '_Cohesion', { get: function () { return value; }, set: function (newValue) { value = newValue; if (value) resolve(); } }); }); window.$neutronWindowPromises['gtag'] = new Promise((resolve) => { var value = undefined; Object.defineProperty(window, 'gtag', { get: function () { return value; }, set: function (newValue) { value = newValue; if (value) resolve(); } }); }); </script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> !function(t,e){"object"==typeof exports&&"undefined"!=typeof module?module.exports=e():"function"==typeof define&&define.amd?define(e):(t=t||self).uuidv4=e()}(this,(function(){"use strict";var t="undefined"!=typeof crypto&&crypto.getRandomValues&&crypto.getRandomValues.bind(crypto)||"undefined"!=typeof msCrypto&&"function"==typeof msCrypto.getRandomValues&&msCrypto.getRandomValues.bind(msCrypto),e=new Uint8Array(16);function n(){if(!t)throw new Error("crypto.getRandomValues() not supported. See https://github.com/uuidjs/uuid#getrandomvalues-not-supported");return t(e)}for(var o=[],r=0;r<256;++r)o.push((r+256).toString(16).substr(1));return function(t,e,r){"string"==typeof t&&(e="binary"===t?new Uint8Array(16):null,t=null);var u=(t=t||{}).random||(t.rng||n)();if(u[6]=15&u[6]|64,u[8]=63&u[8]|128,e){for(var i=r||0,d=0;d<16;++d)e[i+d]=u[d];return e}return function(t,e){var n=e||0,r=o;return(r[t[n+0]]+r[t[n+1]]+r[t[n+2]]+r[t[n+3]]+"-"+r[t[n+4]]+r[t[n+5]]+"-"+r[t[n+6]]+r[t[n+7]]+"-"+r[t[n+8]]+r[t[n+9]]+"-"+r[t[n+10]]+r[t[n+11]]+r[t[n+12]]+r[t[n+13]]+r[t[n+14]]+r[t[n+15]]).toLowerCase()}(u)}})); window.initialPageViewGuid = window.uuidv4(); </script><script type="application/javascript">window.neutronWaitForService = (serviceName, funcName, resolve, reject) => { var MAX_COUNT = 30, WAIT_TIME = 500; var self = window.neutronWaitForService; var serviceDefined = typeof window[serviceName] !== 'undefined'; if (typeof self.count === 'undefined') { self.count = 1; } if ((!funcName && serviceDefined) || (funcName && serviceDefined && typeof window[serviceName][funcName] === 'function')) { resolve(); } else if (self.count <= MAX_COUNT) { self.count++; setTimeout(() => { window.neutronWaitForService(serviceName, funcName, resolve, reject); }, WAIT_TIME); } else { reject(); } };</script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0002" charset="UTF-8"> window.BOOMR_config={autorun:!1,Errors:{enabled:!0,monitorGlobal:!0,monitorNetwork:!1,monitorConsole:!0,monitorEvents:!1,monitorTimeout:!1,maxErrors:10,onError:function(o){var r=o.message||"";return-1!==r.indexOf(".zdnet.com")&&-1===r.indexOf("Script error")&&-1===r.indexOf("Load timeout for modules")}},History:{auto:!0,enabled:!0}}; !function(){if(window.BOOMR&&(window.BOOMR.version||window.BOOMR.snippetExecuted))return;window.BOOMR=window.BOOMR||{},window.BOOMR.snippetStart=(new Date).getTime(),window.BOOMR.snippetExecuted=!0,window.BOOMR.snippetVersion=15,window.BOOMR.url="//c.go-mpulse.net/boomerang/YZ2TK-PC7PJ-K64DL-L53CR-P2G4E";const e=(document.currentScript||document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]).parentNode;let t=!1;function n(n){let o;t=!0;let i,d,r,a=document,c=window;window.BOOMR.snippetMethod=n?"if":"i",i=function(e,t){const n=a.createElement("script");n.id=t||"boomr-if-as",n.src=window.BOOMR.url,BOOMR_lstart=(new Date).getTime(),(e=e||a.body).appendChild(n)},d=document.createElement("IFRAME"),d.src="about:blank",d.title="",d.role="presentation",d.loading="eager",r=(d.frameElement||d).style,r.width=0,r.height=0,r.border=0,r.display="none",e.appendChild(d);try{c=d.contentWindow,a=c.document.open()}catch(e){o=document.domain,d.src="javascript:var d=document.open();d.domain='"+o+"';void 0;",c=d.contentWindow,a=c.document.open()}c._boomrl=function(){i()},c.addEventListener?c.addEventListener("load",c._boomrl,!1):c.attachEvent&&c.attachEvent("onload",c._boomrl),a.close()}const o=document.createElement("link");function i(e){window.BOOMR_onload=e&&e.timeStamp||(new Date).getTime()}o.relList&&"function"==typeof o.relList.supports&&o.relList.supports("preload")&&"as"in o?(window.BOOMR.snippetMethod="p",o.href=window.BOOMR.url,o.rel="preload",o.as="script",o.addEventListener("load",(function(){if(t)return;const n=document.createElement("script");n.id="boomr-scr-as",n.src=window.BOOMR.url,n.async=!0,e.appendChild(n),t=!0})),o.addEventListener("error",(function(){n(!0)})),setTimeout((function(){t||n(!0)}),3e3),BOOMR_lstart=(new Date).getTime(),e.appendChild(o)):n(!1),window.addEventListener?window.addEventListener("load",i,!1):window.attachEvent&&window.attachEvent("onload",i)}(); </script><script type="application/javascript">window.BidBarrel = window.BidBarrel || {}; window.BidBarrel.queue = window.BidBarrel.queue || [];</script><script type="application/javascript" async src="//at.adtech.redventures.io/lib/dist/prod/bidbarrel-zdnet-rv.min.js?adaptive=true"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0001" async charset="UTF-8" src="//securepubads.g.doubleclick.net/tag/js/gpt.js"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" async charset="UTF-8" src="//js-sec.indexww.com/ht/p/183728-122510094381206.js"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" async charset="UTF-8" src="//c.aps.amazon-adsystem.com/apstag.js"></script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> new Promise ((resolve, reject) => { window.neutronWaitForService('apstag', 'nativeContent', resolve, reject); }).then(() => { window.apstag.queue.push(function() { window.apstag.nativeContent().registerHook('nativeContent.updateClickUrl', function(url, element) { element.setAttribute('data-nca-url', url); return url; }); window.apstag.nativeContent().enable(); }); }); </script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> (function (G, o, O, g, L, e) { G[g] = G[g] || function () { (G[g]['q'] = G[g]['q'] || []).push(arguments) }, G[g]['t'] = 1 * new Date; })(window, document, 'script', '_googCsa'); </script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> window._mNHandle = window._mNHandle || {}; window._mNHandle.queue = window._mNHandle.queue || []; medianet_versionId = "3121199"; </script><script type="application/javascript" async charset="UTF-8" data-domain-script="01921f60-0c5a-76c0-98fb-30ae9145e17b" src="https://cdn.cookielaw.org/scripttemplates/otSDKStub.js"></script><link href="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/fonts/SuisseIntl/Semibold.woff2" rel="preload" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous"><link href="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/fonts/SuisseIntl/Regular.woff2" rel="preload" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous"><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" async src="//tru.am/scripts/custom/cbsinteractive.df89ec.js"></script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> window.utag_data = {"pageNumber":1,"_pageComponents":"","pageType":"category_door","collectionId":[""],"contentId":"windows","contentType":"content_feature","siteEdition":"us","siteSection":"","tagSlugs":[],"topicId":[],"topicName":[],"topicSlugs":[],"articleId":"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e","brand":"zdnet","_collectionPrimaryId":[""],"deviceType":"desktop","edition":"us","error":"prod","isDev":false,"limit":4,"pageViewGuid":null,"reportSuiteId":"cnetzdnetglobalsite","siteName":"zdnet","siteType":"responsive web","soastaBucket":"","soastaPageType":"","testGroup":"","testName":"","testVersion":"","traffic_source":"cloud"}; window.utag_data.pageViewGuid = window.initialPageViewGuid; </script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" charset="UTF-8"> document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function () { var element = document.createElement("script"); element.src = "https://znboeraj5ckzy50mq-redventures.siteintercept.qualtrics.com/SIE/?Q_ZID=ZN_bOErAJ5ckzy50mq&Q_LOC=" + encodeURIComponent(window.location.href); document.body.appendChild(element); }); </script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> window.chsn_ad_id = window.initialPageViewGuid; window.chsn_pageType = "category_door"; window.chsn_post_id = "11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e"; !(function (co, h, e, s, i, o, n) { var d = "documentElement"; var a = "className"; h[d][a] += " preampjs fusejs"; n.k = e; co._Cohesion = n; co._Preamp = { k: s, start: new Date() }; co._Fuse = { k: i }; co._Tagular = { k: o }; [e, s, i, o].map(function (x) { co[x] = co[x] || function () { (co[x].q = co[x].q || []).push([].slice.call(arguments)); }; }); h.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function () { co.setTimeout(function () { var u = h[d][a]; h[d][a] = u.replace(/ ?preampjs| ?fusejs/g, ""); }, 3e3); co._Preamp.docReady = co._Fuse.docReady = !0; }); var z = h.createElement("script"); z.async = 1; z.src = "https://cdn.cohesionapps.com/cohesion/cohesion-latest.min.js"; h.head.appendChild(z); })(window, document, "cohesion", "preamp", "fuse", "tagular", {"consent": {"onetrust": {"enabled": true,"optIn": true},"required": true},"tagular": {"writeKey": "wk_1kYsAdHsx1XVwT5EbX9OQYl4nJM","sourceKey": "src_1kYsAcdpfzbZ8UlNLYht1RPg3m2","apiVersion": "v2/t","taggy": {"enabled": true},"beamHook": function (event) { if (false) {} },"cookieDomain": ".zdnet.com"},"monarch": {"token": "216e3432-947e-4868-acd4-32f9cb9ffdb9","sourceId": "898423bf-f046-40ab-933c-5c7c7f6067c7"},"preamp": {"siteId": "22EmoWhqjmBRrnjnuNano1","hooks": {"beforeRun": (config, done) => { if (!window.preampArticleMetadata) { window.preampArticleMetadata = {}; } config.custom = window.preampArticleMetadata; done(); }}}}); </script><script type="application/javascript" charset="UTF-8"> (function () { window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (typeof window.gtag !== 'function') { function gtag() { window.dataLayer.push(arguments); } window.gtag = gtag; } window.gtag('js', new Date()); window.gtag('config', 'G-1Q25KQB2WE', { 'send_page_view': false }); })(); </script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" charset="UTF-8" async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-1Q25KQB2WE"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0002" async src="//static.chartbeat.com/js/chartbeat_mab.js"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004"> !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) {if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)}; if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)}(window, document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('set', 'autoConfig', false, '789754228632403'); fbq('init', '789754228632403'); </script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" async src="https://cdn.static.zdbb.net/js/z0WVjCBSEeGLoxIxOQVEwQ.min.js"></script><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="og:image" property="og:image" content="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/images/logos/logo.png"><meta data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="twitter:image" name="twitter:image" content="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/images/logos/logo.png"><meta data-n-head="ssr" property="og:type" content="website" data-hid="og:type"><meta data-n-head="ssr" name="nuxtstatus" content="loaded" data-hid="nuxtstatus"><meta data-n-head="ssr" property="article:content_tier" content="free" data-hid="article:content_tier"><meta data-n-head="ssr" property="article:publisher" content="https://www.facebook.com/ZDNET.official" data-hid="article:publisher"><meta data-n-head="ssr" property="og:title" content="Windows" data-hid="og:title"><meta data-n-head="ssr" property="og:url" content="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/windows/" data-hid="og:url"><meta data-n-head="ssr" name="twitter:title" content="Windows" data-hid="twitter:title"><meta data-n-head="ssr" name="twitter:url" content="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/windows/" data-hid="twitter:url"><title>Windows | ZDNET</title><link data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="publisher" rel="publisher" href="https://plus.google.com/105074359186426139750/"><link data-n-head="ssr" data-hid="icon" rel="shortcut icon" type="image/png" href="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/images/logos/logo.png"><link data-n-head="ssr" rel="canonical" href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/windows/" data-hid="canonical"><script data-n-head="ssr" charset="UTF-8" type="application/ld+json" data-hid="ld+json">[]</script><script data-n-head="ssr" charset="UTF-8" type="application/javascript" data-hid="chartbeat/config"> var _sf_async_config = _sf_async_config || {}; _sf_async_config.uid = 66142; _sf_async_config.domain = "zdnet.com"; _sf_async_config.flickerControl = false; _sf_async_config.useCanonical = true; _sf_async_config.useCanonicalDomain = true; _sf_async_config.autoDetect = false; _sf_async_config.sections = ""; _sf_async_config.authors = ""; _sf_async_config.contentType = "undefined"; var _sf_startpt = 1732371894834; window._cbq = (window._cbq || []); </script><script data-n-head="ssr"></script><style data-vue-ssr-id="f1847de4:0 3383f5a2:0 12f5cd94:0 cfb5d6b2:0 b9db6b2c:0 0c51e314:0 47ca5d4c:0 eb86ee40:0 5309f1ee:0 1b4d0e46:0 90834cbe:0 ea6b71c4:0 c6c1d790:0 a1459ff6:0 05c63453:0 3890d3ea:0 248d98fe:0 0c6ad2b4:0 3e84d380:0 1e499b28:0 b2456540:0 37c97c99:0 3fb890bc:0 c03ce42a:0 4d138ec9:0 6f7c6c9e:0 32cc4ae4:0 ace3079e:0 517d5238:0 10883194:0 5cd2438e:0 94367f20:0 4569ff88:0 69b7947e:0 575e13cc:0 4d007e28:0 2586f68f:0 602612d4:0">article,aside,details,figcaption,figure,footer,header,hgroup,main,nav,section,summary{display:block}audio,canvas,video{display:inline-block}audio:not([controls]){display:none}[hidden]{display:none}*,*::before,*::after{box-sizing:border-box;outline:0}html{font-size:100%;text-size-adjust:100%}body{margin:0}iframe{border:0;max-width:100%}a,.no-touch a:hover,a:active{outline:0}abbr[title]{border-bottom:1px dotted}dfn{font-style:italic}abbr[title],dfn[title]{cursor:help}b,strong{font-weight:bold}blockquote{margin:0}hr{display:block;height:1px;border:0;border-top:1px solid #ccc;margin:1em 0;padding:0}ins{background:#ff9;color:#000;text-decoration:none}mark{background:#ff0;color:#000;font-style:italic;font-weight:bold}pre,code,kbd,samp{font-family:monospace,serif;_font-family:"courier new",monospace;font-size:1em}pre{white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;word-wrap:break-word}q{quotes:none}q::before,q::after{content:"";content:none}small{font-size:85%}sub,sup{font-size:75%;line-height:0;position:relative;vertical-align:baseline}sup{top:-0.5em}sub{bottom:-0.25em}ul,ol,dl{list-style:none;list-style-image:none}li{list-style:none}dd{margin:0}img{border:0;vertical-align:middle;max-width:100%}svg:not(:root){overflow:hidden}figure{margin:0}form{margin:0}fieldset{border:0;margin:0;padding:0}label{cursor:pointer}legend{border:0;padding:0;white-space:normal}button,input,select,textarea{font-size:100%;margin:0;vertical-align:baseline}button,input{line-height:normal}button,input[type=button],input[type=reset],input[type=submit]{cursor:pointer;appearance:button}button[disabled],input[disabled]{cursor:default}input[type=checkbox],input[type=radio]{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0}input[type=search]{appearance:textfield;box-sizing:content-box}input[type=search]::-webkit-search-decoration,input[type=search]::-webkit-search-cancel-button{appearance:none}input[type=text]:active,input[type=text]:focus,textarea:active,textarea:focus{cursor:text;outline:none}label,input,textarea,select,option{cursor:pointer}button::-moz-focus-inner,input::-moz-focus-inner{border:0;padding:0}textarea{overflow:auto;vertical-align:top;resize:vertical}table{border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0}td{vertical-align:top}h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6,p,blockquote,pre,dl,dd,form,fieldset,legend,table,th,td,caption,ul,ol{margin:0;padding:0}@media print{*{background:rgba(0,0,0,0) !important;color:#000 !important;box-shadow:none !important;text-shadow:none !important;filter:none !important}a,a:visited{text-decoration:underline}abbr[title]::after{content:" (" attr(title) ")"}.ir a::after,a[href^="javascript:"]::after,a[href^="#"]::after{content:""}pre,blockquote{border:1px solid #999;page-break-inside:avoid}thead{display:table-header-group}tr,img{page-break-inside:avoid}img{max-width:100% !important}@page{margin:1cm}p,h2,h3{orphans:3;widows:3}h2,h3{page-break-after:avoid}}button,[type=button],[type=submit]{background:#080a12;border:0;color:#fff;font-family:suisseintl,helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:1rem;font-weight:600;height:3rem;text-transform:uppercase}[type=checkbox]{appearance:none;border:1px solid #d8d8d8;height:2rem;vertical-align:top;width:2rem}[type=checkbox]:active,[type=checkbox]:focus{border:1px solid unset}[type=checkbox]:checked{background:#080a12;background-image:url('data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg width="12" height="10" viewBox="0 0 12 10" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M10.1425 0L4.5 5.7835L1.857 3.278L0 5.136L4.5 9.5L12 1.8575L10.1425 0Z" fill="white"/></svg>');background-position-x:50%;background-position-y:50%;background-repeat:no-repeat;border:0}[type=radio]{appearance:none;border:1px solid #d8d8d8;border-radius:50%;height:2rem;vertical-align:top;width:2rem}[type=radio]:active,[type=radio]:focus{border:1px solid unset}[type=radio]:checked{background:#080a12;background-image:url('data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg width="8" height="8" viewBox="0 0 8 8" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><circle cx="4" cy="4" r="4" fill="white"/></svg>');background-position-x:50%;background-position-y:50%;background-repeat:no-repeat;border:0}[type=text],select,textarea{border:1px solid var(--border-color, rgb(216, 216, 216));color:var(--color, rgb(38, 38, 38))}select{appearance:none;background:rgba(0,0,0,0);background-image:url('data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg width="10" height="5" viewBox="0 0 10 5" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0 0L5.05077 5L10 0.100515L0 0Z" fill="black"/></svg>');background-position-x:calc(100% - 1.4375rem);background-position-y:50%;background-repeat:no-repeat;padding-right:3.5rem}textarea{font-family:suisseintl,helvetica,sans-serif}[type=text]::placeholder,select::placeholder,textarea::placeholder{color:gray;opacity:1}[type=text]:active,select:active,textarea:active,[type=text]:focus,select:focus,textarea:focus{border:1px solid unset}[type=text]:invalid,select:invalid,textarea:invalid{border:1px solid #eb0036;color:#eb0036}html{font-family:suisseintl,helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:16px;color:#080a12}body{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.625rem}h1{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem}@media(min-width: 768px){h1{font-size:calc(48px + 88*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(52px + 92*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){h1{font-size:8.5rem;line-height:9rem}}h2{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem}@media(min-width: 768px){h2{font-size:calc(36px + 12*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(44px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){h2{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem}}h3{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.875rem}@media(min-width: 768px){h3{font-size:calc(22px + 14*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(30px + 14*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){h3{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem}}h4{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem}@media(min-width: 768px){h4{font-size:calc(18px + 4*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(28px + 2*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){h4{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.875rem}}h5{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem}h6{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem}a{color:#006dff;text-decoration:none}a:hover{color:#080a12;text-decoration:none}p{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem}.g-border-thin-light-top{border-top:1px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thin-dark-top,.c-sectionHeading{border-top:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-light-top{border-top:5px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thick-dark-top{border-top:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-primary-top{border-top:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-primary-top{border-top:5px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-light-right{border-right:1px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thin-dark-right{border-right:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-light-right{border-right:5px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thick-dark-right{border-right:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-primary-right{border-right:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-primary-right{border-right:5px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-light-bottom{border-bottom:1px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thin-dark-bottom{border-bottom:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-light-bottom{border-bottom:5px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thick-dark-bottom{border-bottom:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-primary-bottom{border-bottom:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-primary-bottom{border-bottom:5px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-light-left{border-left:1px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thin-dark-left{border-left:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-light-left{border-left:5px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thick-dark-left{border-left:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-primary-left{border-left:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-primary-left{border-left:5px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-light{border:1px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thin-dark{border:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-light{border:5px solid #f1f0f3}.g-border-thick-dark{border:5px solid #080a12}.g-border-thin-primary{border:1px solid #080a12}.g-border-thick-primary{border:5px solid #080a12}.g-bg-primary{background-color:#080a12}.g-color-primary{color:#080a12}.g-color-primary-dark{color:unset}.g-border-primary{border-color:#080a12}.g-bg-secondary{background-color:unset}.g-color-secondary{color:unset}.g-border-secondary{color:unset}.g-bg-tertiary{background-color:#eb0e33}.g-color-tertiary{color:#eb0e33}.g-bg-brand{background-color:#d0ff4b}.g-color-brand{color:#d0ff4b}.g-color-text-meta{color:#505259}.g-bg-black{background-color:#000}.g-color-black{color:#000}.g-fill-black{fill:#000}.g-bg-black-alpha25{background-color:rgba(0,0,0,.25)}.g-color-black-alpha25{color:rgba(0,0,0,.25)}.g-fill-black-alpha25{fill:rgba(0,0,0,.25)}.g-bg-white{background-color:#fff}.g-color-white{color:#fff}.g-fill-white{fill:#fff}.g-bg-white-alpha25{background-color:rgba(255,255,255,.25)}.g-color-white-alpha25{color:rgba(255,255,255,.25)}.g-fill-white-alpha25{fill:rgba(255,255,255,.25)}.g-bg-facebook{background-color:#3b5998}.g-color-facebook{color:#3b5998}.g-fill-facebook{fill:#3b5998}.g-bg-twitter{background-color:#1da1f2}.g-color-twitter{color:#1da1f2}.g-fill-twitter{fill:#1da1f2}.g-bg-linkedin{background-color:#0073b2}.g-color-linkedin{color:#0073b2}.g-fill-linkedin{fill:#0073b2}.g-bg-flipboard{background-color:#e12828}.g-color-flipboard{color:#e12828}.g-fill-flipboard{fill:#e12828}.g-bg-reddit{background-color:#ff4500}.g-color-reddit{color:#ff4500}.g-fill-reddit{fill:#ff4500}.g-bg-pinterest{background-color:#e60023}.g-color-pinterest{color:#e60023}.g-fill-pinterest{fill:#e60023}.g-grid-container{width:calc(100vw - 2*1rem);min-width:288px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-grid-container{width:calc(100vw - 2*2rem)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-grid-container{width:calc(1440px - 144px);max-width:1440px}}.g-container-square{border-radius:0}.g-container-rounded-small{border-radius:.25rem}.g-container-rounded-medium{border-radius:.5rem}.g-container-rounded-large{border-radius:1rem}.g-container-round{border-radius:50%}.g-dropShadow-default{box-shadow:0 2px 16px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.08)}.g-dropShadow-default-plusHover{box-shadow:0 2px 16px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.08)}.g-dropShadow-default-plusHover:hover{box-shadow:0 8px 16px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.16)}.g-dropShadow-hover{box-shadow:0 8px 16px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.16)}.g-dropShadow-modal{box-shadow:0 24px 32px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.16),0 2px 16px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.08)}.g-outer-spacing-xxlarge{margin:3rem}.g-outer-spacing-xlarge{margin:2.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-large{margin:2rem}.g-outer-spacing-medium{margin:1.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-small{margin:1rem}.g-outer-spacing-xsmall{margin:.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-xxlarge{margin-top:3rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-xxlarge-fluid{margin-top:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-top-xxlarge-fluid{margin-top:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-top-xxlarge-fluid{margin-top:3rem}}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xxlarge,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{margin-bottom:3rem}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xxlarge-fluid{margin-bottom:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xxlarge-fluid{margin-bottom:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xxlarge-fluid{margin-bottom:3rem}}.g-outer-spacing-top-xlarge{margin-top:2.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-xlarge-fluid{margin-top:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-top-xlarge-fluid{margin-top:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-top-xlarge-fluid{margin-top:2.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xlarge{margin-bottom:2.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xlarge-fluid,p{margin-bottom:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xlarge-fluid,p{margin-bottom:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xlarge-fluid,p{margin-bottom:2.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-top-large{margin-top:2rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-large-fluid{margin-top:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-top-large-fluid{margin-top:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-top-large-fluid{margin-top:2rem}}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-large{margin-bottom:2rem}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-large-fluid{margin-bottom:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-large-fluid{margin-bottom:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-large-fluid{margin-bottom:2rem}}.g-outer-spacing-top-medium{margin-top:1.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-medium-fluid{margin-top:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-top-medium-fluid{margin-top:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-top-medium-fluid{margin-top:1.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-medium,.c-sectionHeading{margin-bottom:1.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-medium-fluid,p{margin-bottom:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-medium-fluid,p{margin-bottom:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-bottom-medium-fluid,p{margin-bottom:1.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-top-small{margin-top:1rem}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-small{margin-bottom:1rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall{margin-top:.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall{margin-bottom:.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-left-xxlarge{margin-left:3rem}.g-outer-spacing-left-xxlarge-fluid{margin-left:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-left-xxlarge-fluid{margin-left:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-left-xxlarge-fluid{margin-left:3rem}}.g-outer-spacing-right-xxlarge{margin-right:3rem}.g-outer-spacing-right-xxlarge-fluid{margin-right:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-right-xxlarge-fluid{margin-right:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-right-xxlarge-fluid{margin-right:3rem}}.g-outer-spacing-left-xlarge{margin-left:2.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-left-xlarge-fluid{margin-left:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-left-xlarge-fluid{margin-left:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-left-xlarge-fluid{margin-left:2.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-right-xlarge{margin-right:2.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-right-xlarge-fluid{margin-right:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-right-xlarge-fluid{margin-right:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-right-xlarge-fluid{margin-right:2.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-left-large{margin-left:2rem}.g-outer-spacing-left-large-fluid{margin-left:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-left-large-fluid{margin-left:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-left-large-fluid{margin-left:2rem}}.g-outer-spacing-right-large{margin-right:2rem}.g-outer-spacing-right-large-fluid{margin-right:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-right-large-fluid{margin-right:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-right-large-fluid{margin-right:2rem}}.g-outer-spacing-left-medium{margin-left:1.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-left-medium-fluid{margin-left:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-left-medium-fluid{margin-left:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-left-medium-fluid{margin-left:1.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-right-medium{margin-right:1.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-right-medium-fluid{margin-right:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-outer-spacing-right-medium-fluid{margin-right:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-outer-spacing-right-medium-fluid{margin-right:1.5rem}}.g-outer-spacing-left-small{margin-left:1rem}.g-outer-spacing-right-small{margin-right:1rem}.g-outer-spacing-left-xsmall{margin-left:.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-right-xsmall{margin-right:.5rem}.g-outer-spacing-top-none{margin-top:0}.g-outer-spacing-right-none{margin-right:0}.g-outer-spacing-bottom-none{margin-bottom:0}.g-outer-spacing-left-none{margin-left:0}.g-inner-spacing-xxlarge{padding:3rem}.g-inner-spacing-xlarge{padding:2.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-large{padding:2rem}.g-inner-spacing-medium{padding:1.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-small{padding:1rem}.g-inner-spacing-xsmall{padding:.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-top-xxlarge{padding-top:3rem}.g-inner-spacing-top-xxlarge-fluid{padding-top:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-top-xxlarge-fluid{padding-top:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-top-xxlarge-fluid{padding-top:3rem}}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xxlarge{padding-bottom:3rem}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xxlarge-fluid{padding-bottom:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xxlarge-fluid{padding-bottom:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xxlarge-fluid{padding-bottom:3rem}}.g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge{padding-top:2.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge-fluid{padding-top:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge-fluid{padding-top:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge-fluid{padding-top:2.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge{padding-bottom:2.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge-fluid{padding-bottom:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge-fluid{padding-bottom:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge-fluid{padding-bottom:2.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-top-large{padding-top:2rem}.g-inner-spacing-top-large-fluid{padding-top:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-top-large-fluid{padding-top:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-top-large-fluid{padding-top:2rem}}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-large{padding-bottom:2rem}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-large-fluid{padding-bottom:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-large-fluid{padding-bottom:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-large-fluid{padding-bottom:2rem}}.g-inner-spacing-top-medium,.c-sectionHeading{padding-top:1.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-top-medium-fluid{padding-top:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-top-medium-fluid{padding-top:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-top-medium-fluid{padding-top:1.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium{padding-bottom:1.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium-fluid{padding-bottom:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium-fluid{padding-bottom:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium-fluid{padding-bottom:1.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-top-small{padding-top:1rem}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-small{padding-bottom:1rem}.g-inner-spacing-top-xsmall{padding-top:.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-bottom-xsmall{padding-bottom:.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-left-xxlarge{padding-left:3rem}.g-inner-spacing-left-xxlarge-fluid{padding-left:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-left-xxlarge-fluid{padding-left:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-left-xxlarge-fluid{padding-left:3rem}}.g-inner-spacing-right-xxlarge{padding-right:3rem}.g-inner-spacing-right-xxlarge-fluid{padding-right:2.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-right-xxlarge-fluid{padding-right:calc(40px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-right-xxlarge-fluid{padding-right:3rem}}.g-inner-spacing-left-xlarge{padding-left:2.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-left-xlarge-fluid{padding-left:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-left-xlarge-fluid{padding-left:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-left-xlarge-fluid{padding-left:2.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-right-xlarge{padding-right:2.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-right-xlarge-fluid{padding-right:2rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-right-xlarge-fluid{padding-right:calc(32px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-right-xlarge-fluid{padding-right:2.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-left-large{padding-left:2rem}.g-inner-spacing-left-large-fluid{padding-left:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-left-large-fluid{padding-left:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-left-large-fluid{padding-left:2rem}}.g-inner-spacing-right-large{padding-right:2rem}.g-inner-spacing-right-large-fluid{padding-right:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-right-large-fluid{padding-right:calc(24px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-right-large-fluid{padding-right:2rem}}.g-inner-spacing-left-medium{padding-left:1.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-left-medium-fluid{padding-left:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-left-medium-fluid{padding-left:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-left-medium-fluid{padding-left:1.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-right-medium{padding-right:1.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-right-medium-fluid{padding-right:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-inner-spacing-right-medium-fluid{padding-right:calc(16px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/256)}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.g-inner-spacing-right-medium-fluid{padding-right:1.5rem}}.g-inner-spacing-left-small{padding-left:1rem}.g-inner-spacing-right-small{padding-right:1rem}.g-inner-spacing-left-xsmall{padding-left:.5rem}.g-inner-spacing-right-xsmall{padding-right:.5rem}.preampjs [data-preamp],.fusejs [data-fuse]{opacity:0 !important}.g-text-xxxlarge,.g-text-xxxlarge-bold{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem;font-weight:800}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-xxxlarge,.g-text-xxxlarge-bold{font-size:calc(48px + 88*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(52px + 92*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-text-xxxlarge,.g-text-xxxlarge-bold{font-size:8.5rem;line-height:9rem}}.g-text-xxlarge,.g-text-xxlarge-bold{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem;font-weight:800}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-xxlarge,.g-text-xxlarge-bold{font-size:calc(36px + 12*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(44px + 8*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-text-xxlarge,.g-text-xxlarge-bold{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem}}.g-text-xlarge,.g-text-xlarge-bold{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.875rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-xlarge,.g-text-xlarge-bold{font-size:calc(22px + 14*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(30px + 14*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-text-xlarge,.g-text-xlarge-bold{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem}}.g-text-large,.g-text-large-bold,.o-texticon-size-large,.o-button-xlarge{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-large,.g-text-large-bold,.o-texticon-size-large,.o-button-xlarge{font-size:calc(18px + 4*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(28px + 2*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-text-large,.g-text-large-bold,.o-texticon-size-large,.o-button-xlarge{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.875rem}}.g-text-medium,.g-text-medium-bold,.o-texticon-size-medium,.o-button-large,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-primary-large{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem}.g-text-medium-fluid{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-medium-fluid{font-size:calc(16px + 2*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(22px + 6*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-text-medium-fluid{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem}}.g-text-small,.g-text-small-bold,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large,.o-button-medium,.o-texticon-size-small{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem}.g-text-small-fluid{font-size:.938rem;line-height:1.25rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-small-fluid{font-size:calc(15.008px + 0.992*(100vw - 768px)/672);line-height:calc(20px + 2*(100vw - 768px)/672)}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.g-text-small-fluid{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem}}.g-text-xsmall,.g-text-xsmall-bold,.o-texticon-size-xsmall,.o-button-small{font-size:.938rem;line-height:1.25rem}.g-text-extrabold{font-weight:800}.g-text-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-semibold{font-weight:600}.g-text-normal{font-weight:400}.g-text-light{font-weight:300}.g-text-extralight{font-weight:200}.g-text-link{text-decoration:underline}.o-texticon{display:flex;flex-direction:row}.o-texticon-alignment-right{flex-direction:row-reverse}.o-texticon-size-xsmall:first-child,.o-button-small:first-child{margin-right:.25rem}.o-texticon-size-small:first-child{margin-right:.5rem}.o-texticon-size-medium:first-child,.o-button-large:first-child,.c-button-secondary-large:first-child,.c-button-primary-large:first-child{margin-right:1rem}.o-texticon-size-large:first-child,.o-button-xlarge:first-child{margin-right:1.5rem}.o-omnibar-bottom{bottom:0;left:50%;position:fixed;transform:translateX(-50%);z-index:5999899}.o-omnibar-bottom-close{cursor:pointer;display:flex;position:absolute;right:0;bottom:100%;background:#20222a;color:#fff;align-items:center;border-top-left-radius:.25rem;border-top-right-radius:.25rem}.o-omnibar-bottom-close svg{height:.938rem;width:.938rem}.o-omnibar-hide{display:none}.o-omnibar-top{background:#fff;position:fixed;top:0;width:100%;z-index:5999897}.o-omnibar-hide-6x6-iframe iframe{display:none}.o-border-thin{border-width:1px;border-style:solid}.o-border-thin-top{border-top-width:1px;border-top-style:solid}.o-border-thin-right{border-right-width:1px;border-right-style:solid}.o-border-thin-bottom{border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid}.o-border-thin-left{border-left-width:1px;border-left-style:solid}.o-border-thick{border-width:5px;border-style:solid}.o-border-thick-top{border-top-width:5px;border-top-style:solid}.o-border-thick-right{border-right-width:5px;border-right-style:solid}.o-border-thick-bottom{border-bottom-width:5px;border-bottom-style:solid}.o-border-thick-left{border-left-width:5px;border-left-style:solid}.o-box{display:block;padding:1.5rem}.o-box::after{content:"" !important;display:block !important;clear:both !important}.o-box>:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.o-box-flush{padding:0}.o-box-xsmall{padding:.5rem}.o-box-small{padding:1rem}.o-box-large{padding:2rem}.o-box-xlarge{padding:2.5rem}.o-box-xxlarge{padding:3rem}.o-button,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{display:inline-block;text-decoration:none;transition:border .175s ease-out,background-color .175s ease-out,color .175s ease-out;text-align:center}.o-button:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-secondary:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-secondary-large:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-secondary-medium:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-primary:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-primary-medium:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-primary-large:not(.o-button-disabled):hover{cursor:pointer}.o-button-xlarge{padding-left:1rem;padding-right:1rem;height:3rem;line-height:2.4}.o-button-large,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-primary-large{padding-left:28px;padding-right:28px;height:64px;line-height:2.4}.o-button-medium,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary-medium{padding-left:17px;padding-right:17px;height:48px;line-height:2.4}.o-button-small{padding-left:.75rem;padding-right:.75rem;height:1.5rem;line-height:2.4}.o-button-primary,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{border:1px solid #44d8ff;background-color:#44d8ff;background-image:none;color:#080a12}.o-button-primary:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-primary:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-primary-medium:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-primary-large:not(.o-button-disabled):hover{border:1px solid #39d2ff;background-color:#39d2ff;background-image:none;color:#080a12}.o-button-primary.o-button-loading::after,.o-button-loading.c-button-primary::after,.o-button-loading.c-button-primary-medium::after,.o-button-loading.c-button-primary-large::after{border-color:#080a12}.o-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium{border:1px solid #d8d8d8;background-color:#f5f4f7;color:#080a12}.o-button-secondary:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-secondary:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-secondary-large:not(.o-button-disabled):hover,.c-button-secondary-medium:not(.o-button-disabled):hover{border:1px solid #39d2ff;background-color:#39d2ff;color:#080a12}.o-button-ghost{border:1px solid rgba(0,0,0,0);background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);color:#080a12}.o-button-ghost:not(.o-button-disabled):hover{border:1px solid #e6e6e6;background-color:#e6e6e6}.o-button-smallRound,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{border-radius:3px}.o-button-largeRound{border-radius:1rem}.o-button-circle{border-radius:50%}.o-button-loading::after{display:inline-block;animation:1s linear infinite button-loading;border-top:2px solid #080a12;border-radius:50%;content:"";height:10px;margin-left:10px;width:10px}@keyframes button-loading{from{transform:rotate(0deg)}to{transform:rotate(360deg)}}.o-gridListVertical{--cmg-gridListVertical_rows: 11;display:grid;grid-auto-flow:column;grid-template-rows:repeat(var(--cmg-gridListVertical_rows), auto)}.o-linkOverlay{position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;z-index:3;font:0/0 serif;text-shadow:none;color:rgba(0,0,0,0);top:0;left:0}.o-media{display:block}.o-media::after{content:"" !important;display:block !important;clear:both !important}.o-media_img{float:left;margin-right:1.5rem}.o-media_img>img{display:block}.o-media_body{overflow:hidden;display:block}.o-media_body,.o-media_body>:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.o-media-flush>.o-media_img{margin-right:0;margin-left:0}.o-media-reverse>.o-media_img{float:right;margin-right:0;margin-left:1.5rem}.o-media-xsmall>.o-media_img{margin-right:.5rem}.o-media-xsmall.o-media-reverse>.o-media_img{margin-right:0;margin-left:.5rem}.o-media-small>.o-media_img{margin-right:1rem}.o-media-small.o-media-reverse>.o-media_img{margin-right:0;margin-left:1rem}.o-media-large>.o-media_img{margin-right:2rem}.o-media-large.o-media-reverse>.o-media_img{margin-right:0;margin-left:2rem}.o-media-xlarge>.o-media_img{margin-right:2.5rem}.o-media-xlarge.o-media-reverse>.o-media_img{margin-right:0;margin-left:2.5rem}.o-media-xxlarge>.o-media_img{margin-right:3rem}.o-media-xxlarge.o-media-reverse>.o-media_img{margin-right:0;margin-left:3rem}.o-ratio{position:relative;display:block}.o-ratio::before{content:"";display:block;width:100%;padding-bottom:100%}.o-ratio_content,.o-ratio>iframe,.o-ratio>embed,.o-ratio>object{position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;height:100%;width:100%}.o-ratio-imgContain>.o-ratio_content{height:auto;margin:auto;max-height:100%;max-width:100%;width:auto}.o-ratio-2\:1:before{padding-bottom:50%}.o-ratio-full:before{padding-bottom:75%}.o-ratio-tall:before{padding-bottom:133.3333333333%}.o-ratio-wide:before{padding-bottom:56.25%}.o-ratio-cardImage:before{padding-bottom:150%}.u-screenReaderOnly{clip:rect(0 0 0 0);clip-path:inset(100%);height:1px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;white-space:nowrap;width:1px}.u-float-right{float:right}.u-float-left{float:left}.u-horizontal-center{margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto}.u-block{display:block}.u-inline-block{display:inline-block}.u-inline{display:inline}.u-clearfix::after{content:"" !important;display:block !important;clear:both !important}.u-line-clamp-container{position:relative;line-height:1rem}.u-line-clamp{-webkit-line-clamp:2;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;overflow:hidden}.u-hidden{display:none !important}@media(max-width: 767px){.sm\:u-hidden{display:none !important}}@media(min-width: 768px)and (max-width: 1023px){.md\:u-hidden{display:none !important}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.lg\:u-hidden{display:none !important}}.u-flexbox{display:flex}.u-flexbox-column{display:flex;flex-direction:column}.u-flexbox-columnReverse{display:flex;flex-direction:column-reverse}.u-flexbox-row{display:flex;flex-direction:row}.u-flexbox-wrap{flex-wrap:wrap}.u-flexbox-nowrap{flex-wrap:nowrap}.u-flexbox-justifyBetween{justify-content:space-between}.u-flexbox-justifyAround{justify-content:space-around}.u-flexbox-justifyCenter{justify-content:center}.u-flexbox-justifyFlexEnd{justify-content:flex-end}.u-flexbox-alignFlexStart{align-items:flex-start}.u-flexbox-alignCenter,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{align-items:center}.u-flexbox-alignFlexEnd{align-items:flex-end}.u-flexbox-alignStretch{align-items:stretch}.u-flexbox-alignBaseline{align-items:baseline}.u-flexbox-alignSelfFlexStart{align-self:flex-start}.u-flexbox-alignSelfCenter{align-self:center}.u-flexbox-alignSelfFlexEnd{align-self:flex-end}.u-flexbox-flexEven{flex:1 1 100%}.u-flex-grow{flex-grow:1}.u-grid{display:grid;grid-gap:var(--grid-gap, 0)}.u-grid-auto-cols{grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(0, 1fr))}.u-grid-full-row{grid-column:1/-1}.u-grid-2column{display:grid;grid-template:auto/repeat(2, 1fr)}.u-grid-3column{display:grid;grid-template:auto/repeat(3, 1fr)}.u-grid-gap-small{--grid-gap: 0.25rem}.u-grid-gap-medium{--grid-gap: 0.5rem}.u-grid-gap-large{--grid-gap: 1rem}.u-grid-position_self-center{align-self:center}.u-grid-columns{--grid-cols: 2;display:grid;gap:var(--grid-gap, 1rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(var(--grid-cols), 1fr)}@media(min-width: 768px){.u-grid-columns{--grid-gap: 1.5rem;--grid-cols: 6}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.u-grid-columns{--grid-cols: 12}}.sm\:u-col-1{grid-column-end:span 1}.sm\:u-col-start-1{grid-column-start:1}.sm\:u-col-end-2{grid-column-end:2}.sm\:u-col-2{grid-column-end:span 2}.sm\:u-col-start-2{grid-column-start:2}.sm\:u-col-end-3{grid-column-end:3}@media(max-width: 767px){.sm\:u-col-hide{display:none}}@media(min-width: 768px){.md\:u-col-1{grid-column-end:span 1}.md\:u-col-start-1{grid-column-start:1}.md\:u-col-end-2{grid-column-end:2}.md\:u-col-2{grid-column-end:span 2}.md\:u-col-start-2{grid-column-start:2}.md\:u-col-end-3{grid-column-end:3}.md\:u-col-3{grid-column-end:span 3}.md\:u-col-start-3{grid-column-start:3}.md\:u-col-end-4{grid-column-end:4}.md\:u-col-4{grid-column-end:span 4}.md\:u-col-start-4{grid-column-start:4}.md\:u-col-end-5{grid-column-end:5}.md\:u-col-5{grid-column-end:span 5}.md\:u-col-start-5{grid-column-start:5}.md\:u-col-end-6{grid-column-end:6}.md\:u-col-6{grid-column-end:span 6}.md\:u-col-start-6{grid-column-start:6}.md\:u-col-end-7{grid-column-end:7}}@media(min-width: 768px)and (max-width: 1023px){.md\:u-col-hide{display:none}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.lg\:u-col-1{grid-column-end:span 1}.lg\:u-col-start-1{grid-column-start:1}.lg\:u-col-end-2{grid-column-end:2}.lg\:u-col-2{grid-column-end:span 2}.lg\:u-col-start-2{grid-column-start:2}.lg\:u-col-end-3{grid-column-end:3}.lg\:u-col-3{grid-column-end:span 3}.lg\:u-col-start-3{grid-column-start:3}.lg\:u-col-end-4{grid-column-end:4}.lg\:u-col-4{grid-column-end:span 4}.lg\:u-col-start-4{grid-column-start:4}.lg\:u-col-end-5{grid-column-end:5}.lg\:u-col-5{grid-column-end:span 5}.lg\:u-col-start-5{grid-column-start:5}.lg\:u-col-end-6{grid-column-end:6}.lg\:u-col-6{grid-column-end:span 6}.lg\:u-col-start-6{grid-column-start:6}.lg\:u-col-end-7{grid-column-end:7}.lg\:u-col-7{grid-column-end:span 7}.lg\:u-col-start-7{grid-column-start:7}.lg\:u-col-end-8{grid-column-end:8}.lg\:u-col-8{grid-column-end:span 8}.lg\:u-col-start-8{grid-column-start:8}.lg\:u-col-end-9{grid-column-end:9}.lg\:u-col-9{grid-column-end:span 9}.lg\:u-col-start-9{grid-column-start:9}.lg\:u-col-end-10{grid-column-end:10}.lg\:u-col-10{grid-column-end:span 10}.lg\:u-col-start-10{grid-column-start:10}.lg\:u-col-end-11{grid-column-end:11}.lg\:u-col-11{grid-column-end:span 11}.lg\:u-col-start-11{grid-column-start:11}.lg\:u-col-end-12{grid-column-end:12}.lg\:u-col-12{grid-column-end:span 12}.lg\:u-col-start-12{grid-column-start:12}.lg\:u-col-end-13{grid-column-end:13}.lg\:u-col-hide{display:none}}@media(min-width: 1440px){.xl\:u-col-1{grid-column-end:span 1}.xl\:u-col-start-1{grid-column-start:1}.xl\:u-col-end-2{grid-column-end:2}.xl\:u-col-2{grid-column-end:span 2}.xl\:u-col-start-2{grid-column-start:2}.xl\:u-col-end-3{grid-column-end:3}.xl\:u-col-3{grid-column-end:span 3}.xl\:u-col-start-3{grid-column-start:3}.xl\:u-col-end-4{grid-column-end:4}.xl\:u-col-4{grid-column-end:span 4}.xl\:u-col-start-4{grid-column-start:4}.xl\:u-col-end-5{grid-column-end:5}.xl\:u-col-5{grid-column-end:span 5}.xl\:u-col-start-5{grid-column-start:5}.xl\:u-col-end-6{grid-column-end:6}.xl\:u-col-6{grid-column-end:span 6}.xl\:u-col-start-6{grid-column-start:6}.xl\:u-col-end-7{grid-column-end:7}.xl\:u-col-7{grid-column-end:span 7}.xl\:u-col-start-7{grid-column-start:7}.xl\:u-col-end-8{grid-column-end:8}.xl\:u-col-8{grid-column-end:span 8}.xl\:u-col-start-8{grid-column-start:8}.xl\:u-col-end-9{grid-column-end:9}.xl\:u-col-9{grid-column-end:span 9}.xl\:u-col-start-9{grid-column-start:9}.xl\:u-col-end-10{grid-column-end:10}.xl\:u-col-10{grid-column-end:span 10}.xl\:u-col-start-10{grid-column-start:10}.xl\:u-col-end-11{grid-column-end:11}.xl\:u-col-11{grid-column-end:span 11}.xl\:u-col-start-11{grid-column-start:11}.xl\:u-col-end-12{grid-column-end:12}.xl\:u-col-12{grid-column-end:span 12}.xl\:u-col-start-12{grid-column-start:12}.xl\:u-col-end-13{grid-column-end:13}.xl\:u-col-hide{display:none}}.u-col-start{grid-column-start:1}.u-col-end{grid-column-end:-1}.u-overflow-auto{overflow:auto}.u-overflow-initial{overflow:initial}.u-overflow-hidden{overflow:hidden}.u-overflow-scroll{overflow:scroll}.u-overflow-y-auto{overflow-y:auto}.u-overflow-y-initial{overflow-y:initial}.u-overflow-y-hidden{overflow-y:hidden}.u-overflow-y-scroll{overflow-y:scroll}.u-overflow-x-auto{overflow-x:auto}.u-overflow-x-initial{overflow-x:initial}.u-overflow-x-hidden{overflow-x:hidden}.u-overflow-x-scroll{overflow-x:scroll}.u-text-uppercase{text-transform:uppercase}.u-text-lowercase{text-transform:lowercase}.u-text-capitalize{text-transform:capitalize}.u-text-left{text-align:left}.u-text-center{text-align:center}.u-text-right{text-align:right}.u-text-underline{text-decoration:underline}.u-text-italic{font-style:italic}.u-p-small-space{margin:0 0 .22em}.u-no-space{margin:0}@font-face{font-family:SuisseIntl;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-display:swap;src:url(https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/fonts/SuisseIntl/Regular.woff2) format("woff2")}@font-face{font-family:SuisseIntl;font-weight:600;font-style:normal;font-display:swap;src:url(https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/fonts/SuisseIntl/Semibold.woff2) format("woff2")}table{width:auto;font-size:16px;line-height:1.875rem}table th,table td{padding:5px 20px;border-left:1px solid #f1f0f3;border-right:1px solid #f1f0f3}table table{text-align:left;width:100%;clear:both}table tr{border-bottom:1px solid #f1f0f3}table thead{border-bottom:1px solid #d1d0d3}table thead tr{border-bottom:none}table thead th,table tfoot th{font-weight:600;vertical-align:top}table tbody th{color:#080a12;font-weight:normal;text-align:left}table tbody tr:hover{background-color:#f1f0f3}table tbody tr:last-child{border-bottom:none}table th:first-child,table td:first-child{border-left:none}table th:last-child,table td:last-child{border-right:none}table th[colspan],table td[colspan]{text-align:center}@keyframes g-fadeMenuInUp{0%{opacity:0;top:20px;visibility:hidden}1%{opacity:0;top:20px;visibility:visible}100%{opacity:1;top:0;visibility:visible}}@keyframes g-fadeMenuOutDown{0%{left:auto;opacity:1;top:0;visibility:visible}99%{left:auto;opacity:0;top:20px;visibility:visible}100%{left:auto;opacity:0;top:20px;visibility:hidden}}@keyframes g-fadeMenuInLeft{0%{opacity:0;left:20px;visibility:hidden}1%{opacity:0;left:20px;visibility:visible}100%{opacity:1;left:0;visibility:visible}}@keyframes g-fadeMenuOutRight{0%{opacity:1;left:0;visibility:visible}99%{opacity:0;left:20px;visibility:visible}100%{opacity:0;left:20px;visibility:hidden}}@keyframes g-fadeTriInUp{0%{bottom:-28px;opacity:0;visibility:hidden}1%{bottom:-28px;opacity:0;visibility:visible}100%{bottom:-9px;opacity:1;visibility:visible}}@keyframes g-fadeTriOutDown{0%{bottom:-9px;opacity:1;visibility:visible}99%{bottom:-28px;opacity:0;visibility:visible}100%{bottom:-28px;opacity:0;visibility:hidden}}body>img:not([style],[class]),body>span>img:not([style],[class]),body>img{display:block;height:0}[id=ot-sdk-btn]{display:none !important}div#onetrust-consent-sdk #onetrust-banner-sdk{box-sizing:border-box;width:90%;padding:1.5rem;background-color:#fff;max-width:684px;top:50%;left:50%;bottom:auto !important;right:auto;transform:translate(-50%, -50%);outline:none;font-size:1rem}div#onetrust-consent-sdk #onetrust-banner-sdk a[href]{color:#006dff;text-decoration:none;font-weight:inherit}div#onetrust-consent-sdk #onetrust-banner-sdk a[href]:hover{color:#0058d5}div#onetrust-consent-sdk #onetrust-policy{margin:0}div#onetrust-consent-sdk #onetrust-policy-text{color:#080a12;font-size:inherit;margin:0}div#onetrust-consent-sdk #onetrust-group-container{float:none;width:auto}div#onetrust-consent-sdk .ot-sdk-container{padding:0;width:100%}div#onetrust-consent-sdk .ot-sdk-container .ot-sdk-row #onetrust-button-group-parent{position:static;width:100%;padding:0;margin:0}div#onetrust-consent-sdk .ot-sdk-container .ot-sdk-row #onetrust-button-group-parent #onetrust-button-group{margin:0;display:flex;justify-content:space-between;flex-direction:column;width:100%}@media(min-width: 768px){div#onetrust-consent-sdk .ot-sdk-container .ot-sdk-row #onetrust-button-group-parent #onetrust-button-group{margin:1.5rem 0 0 0;flex-direction:row}div#onetrust-consent-sdk .ot-sdk-container .ot-sdk-row #onetrust-button-group-parent #onetrust-button-group button{width:30%;margin-top:0}}div#onetrust-consent-sdk .onetrust-pc-dark-filter{background:rgba(0,0,0,.3)}p{font-size:inherit}.g-text-xxxlarge,.g-text-xxxlarge-bold{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem;font-weight:400}@media(min-width: 1230px){.g-text-xxxlarge,.g-text-xxxlarge-bold{font-size:8.5rem;line-height:9rem}}.g-text-xxxlarge-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-xxlarge,.g-text-xxlarge-bold{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem;font-weight:400}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-xxlarge,.g-text-xxlarge-bold{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem}}.g-text-xxlarge-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-xlarge,.g-text-xlarge-bold{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.875rem;font-weight:400}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-xlarge,.g-text-xlarge-bold{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem}}.g-text-xlarge-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-large,.g-text-large-bold,.o-texticon-size-large,.o-button-xlarge{font-size:1.25rem;line-height:1.75rem;font-weight:400}@media(min-width: 768px){.g-text-large,.g-text-large-bold,.o-texticon-size-large,.o-button-xlarge{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.875rem}}.g-text-large-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-medium,.g-text-medium-bold,.o-texticon-size-medium,.o-button-large,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-primary-large{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.75rem;font-weight:400}.g-text-medium-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-small,.g-text-small-bold,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large,.o-texticon-size-small,.o-button-medium{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem;font-weight:400}.g-text-small-bold,.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{font-weight:600}.g-text-xsmall,.g-text-xsmall-bold,.o-texticon-size-xsmall,.o-button-small{font-size:.938rem;line-height:1.25rem;font-weight:400}.g-text-xsmall-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-xxsmall,.g-text-xxsmall-bold{font-size:.813rem;line-height:1.125rem;font-weight:400}.g-text-xxsmall-bold{font-weight:600}.g-text-xxxsmall,.g-text-xxxsmall-bold{font-size:.75rem;line-height:1rem}.g-text-xxxsmall-bold{font-weight:600}.c-sectionHeading{line-height:1.7;font-size:1.125rem;font-weight:600;text-transform:lowercase}.c-sectionHeading::before{display:inline-block;width:.452em;margin-right:.5rem;vertical-align:middle;content:url("data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20viewBox%3D%220%200%208%2014%22%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%3E%3Cpath%20d%3D%22M3.32541%2013.2021L8%200.000375748L5.15459%200.000375623L0.48%2013.2021L3.32541%2013.2021Z%22%20fill%3D%22%23080A12%22%20%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E")}.c-sectionHeading-invert{border-top-color:#fff;color:#fff}.c-sectionHeading-invert::before{content:url("data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20viewBox%3D%220%200%208%2014%22%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%3E%3Cpath%20d%3D%22M3.32541%2013.2021L8%200.000375748L5.15459%200.000375623L0.48%2013.2021L3.32541%2013.2021Z%22%20fill%3D%22%23ffffff%22%20%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E")}.c-sectionHeading-large{padding-top:0;font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.25;border-top:none}.c-sectionHeading>strong{text-transform:none}.c-button,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{display:inline-flex;justify-content:center;margin-bottom:0}.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-primary-large{color:#080a12}.c-button-primary svg,.c-button-primary-medium svg,.c-button-primary-large svg{fill:#080a12}.c-button-primary:hover,.c-button-primary-medium:hover,.c-button-primary-large:hover{color:#080a12}.c-button-secondary-large svg,.c-button-secondary-medium svg{fill:#080a12}.c-button-secondary-large:not(.o-button-disabled):hover{color:#080a12;border:1px solid #39d2ff;background-color:#39d2ff}.c-button-secondary-large:not(.o-button-disabled):hover svg{fill:#080a12}.c-button-secondary-medium:not(.o-button-disabled):hover{color:#080a12;border:1px solid #39d2ff;background-color:#39d2ff}.c-button-secondary-medium:not(.o-button-disabled):hover svg{fill:#080a12}.c-button:first-child,.c-button-primary:first-child,.c-button-primary-large:first-child,.c-button-primary-medium:first-child,.c-button-secondary:first-child,.c-button-secondary-large:first-child,.c-button-secondary-medium:first-child{margin-right:0}.o-button,.c-button,.c-button-primary,.c-button-primary-large,.c-button-primary-medium,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium{transition:unset;text-transform:lowercase;font-weight:600;font-size:.938rem}.o-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary,.c-button-secondary-large,.c-button-secondary-medium{border:1px solid #f5f4f7;background-color:#f5f4f7;color:#080a12}.o-button-secondary>svg,.c-button-secondary>svg,.c-button-secondary-large>svg,.c-button-secondary-medium>svg{fill:#080a12}.o-button-secondary-invert{border:1px solid #20222a;background-color:#20222a;color:#fff}.o-button-secondary-invert>svg{fill:#fff}.o-button-brand{border:none;background:#d0ff4b;color:#080a12}.o-button-brand>svg{fill:#080a12}.o-button-brand:hover{background:#e7ff6e}.o-button-block{display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center}.o-button-square{vertical-align:baseline}.o-button-square-large{width:86px;height:86px}.o-button-square-large svg{display:inline-block;width:41px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle}.o-button-square-medium{width:64px;height:64px}.o-button-square-medium svg{display:inline-block;width:13px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle}.o-button-square-small{width:48px;height:48px}.o-button-square-small svg{display:inline-block;width:13px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle}.o-button-secondary:hover,.c-button-secondary:hover,.c-button-secondary-large:hover,.c-button-secondary-medium:hover{background-color:#39d2ff;color:#080a12;border-color:#39d2ff}.o-button-secondary:hover>svg,.c-button-secondary:hover>svg,.c-button-secondary-large:hover>svg,.c-button-secondary-medium:hover>svg{fill:#080a12}.o-button-secondary-invert:hover{background-color:#39d2ff;color:#080a12;border-color:#39d2ff}.o-button-secondary-invert:hover>svg{fill:#080a12} .nuxt-progress { position: fixed; top: 0px; left: 0px; right: 0px; height: 2px; width: 0%; opacity: 1; transition: width 0.1s, opacity 0.4s; background-color: #fff; z-index: 999999; } .nuxt-progress.nuxt-progress-notransition { transition: none; } .nuxt-progress-failed { background-color: red; } .c-layoutDefault_page[data-v-60affc28]{position:relative} .c-globalSvgs{height:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;width:0}#galleryOverlay{fill:rgba(0,0,0,.3)}#galleryOverlay .overlayBorder{fill:rgba(255,255,255,.5)}#galleryOverlay .overlayIcon{fill:#fff}#facebook g,#twitter path:first-child{fill:none} .c-globalSvgs{height:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;width:0} .c-globalSvgs{height:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;width:0} .c-adDisplay_container.spaced{margin-bottom:1.5rem}.c-adDisplay{margin:0 auto;justify-content:center}.c-adDisplay iframe{max-width:none}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-adDisplay-viewportCenter:not(.skybox-loaded-slot){margin-left:calc(50% - 50vw);margin-right:calc(50% - 50vw)}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-adDisplay-viewportCenter:not(.skybox-loaded-slot).power-bar{clear:both}}.c-adDisplay_container.collapsed{min-height:0}.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-ad-plus{min-height:250px}.c-adDisplay_container_leaderboard-middle{min-height:66px}.c-adDisplay_container_mpu-top{min-height:250px}.c-adDisplay_container_leader-middle{min-height:90px} .c-adDisplay.skybox-inContent{margin-left:calc(50% - 50vw + .5*var(--scroll-bar-width));margin-right:calc(50% - 50vw + .5*var(--scroll-bar-width));width:100vw}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-pageArticleSingle-review .c-adDisplay.skybox-inContent{width:calc(100vw - .5*var(--scroll-bar-width));margin-right:0;margin-left:calc(50% - 50vw + .5*var(--scroll-bar-width) - (100% - 8*var(--grid-gap))*.2222222222)}}.c-adDisplay.rendered{min-height:0}.c-adDisplay_container{display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center}.c-adDisplay_container.collapsed{transition:min-height .3s ease;min-height:0}.c-adDisplay_container.rendered{min-height:0}.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-ad-plus-1,.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-ad-plus,.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-mpu{min-height:250px}.c-adDisplay_container__mobile-sharethrough-top{min-height:255px}.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-nav-ad-plus-banner{min-height:50px}.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-banner-bottom{min-height:130px}.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-all-1,.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-all,.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-incontent-plus{display:block;min-height:154px}.c-adDisplay_container_leaderboard-middle{min-height:66px}.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-narrow-all-top,.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-leaderboard-middle{display:block;min-height:273px}.c-adDisplay_container_mpu-top,.c-adDisplay_container_mpu-plus-top,.c-adDisplay_container_mpu-middle{min-height:250px}.c-adDisplay_container_leader-top,.c-adDisplay_container_leader-plus-top,.c-adDisplay_container_leader-middle,.c-adDisplay_container_leader-plus-middle{min-height:90px}.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus-bottom{min-height:200px}.c-adDisplay_container_leader-bottom{min-height:90px}.c-adDisplay_container_leaderboard-bottom{min-height:90px}.c-adDisplay_container_mobile-mpu-bottom{min-height:250px}.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-top,.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus-billboard-middle,.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-plus-billboard-middle,.c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-middle{display:block;min-height:211px;clear:both}.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-top>[data-ad],.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus-billboard-middle>[data-ad],.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-plus-billboard-middle>[data-ad],.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-middle>[data-ad]{background:#f5f4f7;padding:32px 0 12px;z-index:500;position:relative}.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-top>[data-ad].skybox-loaded-slot,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus-billboard-middle>[data-ad].skybox-loaded-slot,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-plus-billboard-middle>[data-ad].skybox-loaded-slot,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-middle>[data-ad].skybox-loaded-slot{padding-bottom:0}.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-top>[data-ad]::before,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus-billboard-middle>[data-ad]::before,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-plus-billboard-middle>[data-ad]::before,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-middle>[data-ad]::before{content:"Advertisement";color:#080a12;font-size:12px;line-height:16px;display:block;position:absolute;left:50%;transform:translate(-50%, -25px)}.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-top.rendered:not(.blank)::before,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus-billboard-middle.rendered:not(.blank)::before,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-plus-billboard-middle.rendered:not(.blank)::before,.c-pageArticleSingle-toc .c-adDisplay_container_incontent-all-middle.rendered:not(.blank)::before{content:" ";position:absolute;height:600px;width:25%;left:0;margin-top:-150px;z-index:20;background:linear-gradient(rgba(255, 255, 255, 0), white 10%, white 90%, rgba(255, 255, 255, 0))} .c-adSkyBox{min-height:max(18vw,50px)}.c-adSkyBox.collapsed{display:none}.c-adSkyBox_stickyContainer{width:100%;position:fixed;top:0;z-index:5200000}.rendered .c-adSkyBox_closeButton{display:flex;position:absolute;top:2px;right:3px;width:15px;height:15px;font-size:13px;border:1px solid #f1f0f3;border-radius:100%}.c-adSkyBox_hideButton{display:none}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-adSkyBox{min-height:max(6.5vw,90px)}}@media(min-width: 1024px)and (max-width: 1293px){.c-adSkyBox{min-height:9.7vw}}.c-adSkyBox .c-adDisplay_container{align-items:center;display:flex;justify-content:center;width:100%;min-height:max(18vw,50px)}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-adSkyBox .c-adDisplay_container{min-height:max(6.5vw,90px)}}@media(min-width: 1024px)and (max-width: 1293px){.c-adSkyBox .c-adDisplay_container{min-height:9.7vw}}.c-adSkyBox.fixed .c-adDisplay_container{position:fixed;top:0;left:0}.skybox-closed .c-adSkyBox.rendered{min-height:0}.skybox-closed .c-adSkyBox.rendered .c-adDisplay_container{min-height:0} .c-adSkyBox{align-items:center;background-color:#080a12;display:flex;justify-content:center;transition:min-height .3s ease}.c-adSkyBox.rendered:not(.fixed){min-height:0}.c-adSkyBox.leader{min-height:50px}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-adSkyBox.leader{min-height:90px}}.c-adSkyBox.empty.rendered{aspect-ratio:unset}@media(max-width: 287px){.c-adSkyBox .skybox-closed,.c-adSkyBox.rendered{min-height:0}.c-adSkyBox .skybox-closed .c-adDisplay_container,.c-adSkyBox.rendered .c-adDisplay_container{min-height:0}}.c-adSkyBox-stickyContainer{width:100%;transition:transform .5s ease;transform:translate3d(0, 0, 0);background:inherit}.c-adSkyBox-stickyContainer_animate{transform:translate3d(0, -120px, 0)}.c-adSkyBox-stickyContainer_sticky{width:100%;position:fixed;top:0;z-index:5500000;aspect-ratio:inherit}.c-adSkyBox-stickyContainer .c-adDisplay_container{background:inherit}.c-adSkyBox_closeButton{display:none;background-color:#eee;z-index:1}.c-adSkyBox .c-adDisplay_container{aspect-ratio:inherit}body.skybox-hidden .c-adSkyBox{display:none}@media(min-width: 1024px){body.ccad-skybox-manualexpand .c-adDisplay_container_nav-ad-plus,body.ccad-skybox-manualcollapse .c-adDisplay_container_nav-ad-plus{min-height:unset}}.c-adSkyBox,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container{height:unset !important;max-width:calc(100vw - var(--scroll-bar-width));aspect-ratio:2280/150}@media(orientation: portrait){.c-adSkyBox,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container{aspect-ratio:1520/150}}@media(orientation: portrait)and (max-width: 768px)and (any-pointer: coarse){.c-adSkyBox,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container{aspect-ratio:800/150}}.c-adSkyBox.expanded,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container.expanded{aspect-ratio:2280/450}@media(orientation: portrait){.c-adSkyBox.expanded,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container.expanded{aspect-ratio:1520/450}}@media(orientation: portrait)and (max-width: 768px)and (any-pointer: coarse){.c-adSkyBox.expanded,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container.expanded{aspect-ratio:800/450}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-adSkyBox.rendered:not(.empty),.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container.rendered:not(.empty){aspect-ratio:unset}}.c-adSkyBox .c-adDisplay_container,.c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container .c-adDisplay_container{min-height:unset !important}body.ccad-skybox-manualcollapse .c-adSkyBox,body.ccad-skybox-manualexpand .c-adSkyBox,body.skybox-loaded .c-adSkyBox{aspect-ratio:unset !important}body.ccad-skybox-manualcollapse .c-adSkyBox.rendered,body.ccad-skybox-manualexpand .c-adSkyBox.rendered,body.skybox-loaded .c-adSkyBox.rendered{aspect-ratio:unset !important}body:not(.skybox-frontdoor) .c-adSkyBox.rendered:not(.empty),body:not(.skybox-frontdoor) .c-adSkyBox.fixed:not(.leader) .c-adDisplay_container.rendered:not(.empty){aspect-ratio:unset}body.skybox-closed .c-adSkyBox{aspect-ratio:unset !important;min-height:0 !important}@keyframes slideUp{0%{transform:translateY(0)}100%{transform:translateY(max(-1 * var(--scroll-y), -100%))}} .c-globalOverlay{position:fixed;top:0;left:0;height:100%;width:100%;overflow:auto;z-index:10}.c-globalOverlay::before{content:"";position:absolute;display:block;height:100%;width:100%;top:0;left:0;background-color:rgba(32,34,42,.7)} .c-siteHeader{height:48px;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;position:relative;background:#d0ff4b;z-index:5200000}@media(min-width: 1230px){.large-header .c-siteHeader{height:auto}} .c-siteHeaderNavigation{height:100%;display:flex;grid-gap:0}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_shelves{flex:1}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_item{display:inline-flex;margin-left:2.5rem}.c-siteHeaderNavigation a{-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0)}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton{position:relative;display:flex;height:100%;align-items:center;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);cursor:pointer}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton svg{display:block;width:20px;height:20px;fill:#080a12}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton:hover svg{fill:#0058d5}.c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo{height:100%;display:flex;align-items:center;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0)}.c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo svg{transition:fill .5s ease}.c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-vertical{display:none}.c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-horizontal>svg{width:86px;height:16px}.c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo:hover svg{transition:none;fill:#0058d5}.c-siteHeaderNavigation-login{display:flex;align-items:center}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf,.c-siteHeaderNavigation_topicShelf{height:100%}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf{display:flex;justify-content:flex-end}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_topicShelf{display:none}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_sloganWrapper{flex-grow:1;display:flex;align-items:center}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan{color:#080a12}.c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-siteHeaderNavigation-removeShelf{padding:16px 0}@media(min-width: 1230px){.c-siteHeaderNavigation-removeShelf{padding-top:24px;padding-bottom:0}}.c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_item-more{display:none}@media(max-width: 767px){.c-siteHeaderNavigation_sloganWrapper{display:none}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan{margin-left:2rem}}@media(min-width: 1230px){header:not(.large-header) .c-siteHeaderNavigation{max-width:initial;width:auto;margin:0 1.5rem}header:not(.large-header) .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_item{margin-left:108px}header:not(.large-header) .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-smartSearch-grid{display:block;max-width:966px}}@media(min-width: 1230px){header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation{display:grid;grid-gap:var(--grid-gap)}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo{align-items:flex-end;position:relative;z-index:4}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-vertical{display:block}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-vertical>svg{width:220px;height:144px}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-horizontal{display:none}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{left:0}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_shelves{flex:initial;display:flex;flex-direction:column-reverse}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf{height:107px}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf .c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{top:0;padding-top:70px}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_topicShelf{display:flex;justify-content:space-between;height:70px}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_item-more{display:inline-flex}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf .c-siteHeaderNavigation_item{margin-left:0}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf .c-siteHeaderNavigation_item>div{margin-left:110px}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_item-accordion{display:none}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan{margin-left:0;position:relative;z-index:4;transition:color .5s ease}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan span{display:block}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan:hover{transition:none}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton svg{width:24px;height:24px;z-index:4}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon svg,header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton svg{transition:fill .5s ease;z-index:4}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon svg,header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation-login svg{fill:#d0ff4b}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo svg{fill:#d0ff4b}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo svg:hover{fill:#3f8eff}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan{color:#d0ff4b}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan:hover{color:#3f8eff}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-sitePrimaryMenu_item::after{display:none}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton:hover svg{fill:#3f8eff}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon:hover svg,header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation .c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton:hover svg{transition:none}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo:hover svg{transition:none}header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-sitePrimaryMenu:hover .c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon svg,header.large-header .c-siteHeaderNavigation_iconMenuOpen .c-sitePrimaryMenu.is-expanded .c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon svg{fill:#3f8eff}} .c-siteLogo_image{width:100%;height:100%;display:block}.c-siteLogo_image-color-brand{fill:#d0ff4b}.c-siteLogo_image-color-text{fill:#080a12}.c-siteLogo_image-normal,.c-siteLogo_image-footer{width:66px;height:42px}@media(min-width: 1230px){.c-siteLogo_image-normal,.c-siteLogo_image-footer{height:64px;width:100px}}.c-siteLogo_image-small{height:32px;width:50px}.c-siteLogo_image-amp{width:107px;height:70px}.c-siteLogo_image-header{width:107px;height:70px} .c-sitePrimaryMenu{align-items:center;display:flex}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_text{font-weight:600;color:#080a12;font-size:18px;margin-top:-32px}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_item{background:none;padding:0;text-transform:lowercase;cursor:default}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_item>svg{display:block;width:20px;height:20px;fill:#080a12}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemLink{cursor:pointer;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0)}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_item:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_item:hover svg{fill:#0058d5}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{background-color:#20222a;color:#fff;position:absolute;top:100%;left:0;right:0;visibility:hidden;z-index:2;overflow:auto;max-height:100vh}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{left:auto}}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav-search{overflow:visible}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav .c-sitePrimaryMenu_item{position:relative;display:flex;height:100%;align-items:center}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav .c-sitePrimaryMenu_item::after{position:absolute;content:"";bottom:0;left:0;right:0;height:3px;background:#20222a;z-index:1;visibility:hidden;transform:scaleX(0) translateZ(0);transition:transform .1s ease,visibility 0s .1s}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav.is-expanded .c-sitePrimaryMenu_text{color:#0058d5}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav.is-expanded .c-sitePrimaryMenu_item svg{fill:#0058d5}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav.is-expanded .c-sitePrimaryMenu_item a::before{content:"";position:absolute;top:0;left:-20px;right:-20px;bottom:0}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav.is-expanded .c-sitePrimaryMenu_item::after{visibility:visible;transform:scaleX(1) translateZ(0);transition:transform .1s ease}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav.is-expanded .c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{visibility:visible;clip:rect(0, 200vw, 100vh, 0);transition:clip .4s linear;z-index:3}.c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav .c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{visibility:hidden;clip:rect(0, 200vw, 0, 0);transition:clip .3s linear,visibility 0s .3s;transform:translateZ(0)}@media(min-width: 1230px){.c-sitePrimaryMenu_item>svg{width:24px;height:24px}} .c-siteMenuList{position:relative;font-weight:600;padding:16px 0;line-height:22px;display:block}.c-siteMenuList_item{color:#fff;margin:32px 16px 32px 0}.c-siteMenuList_item small{font-size:inherit;font-weight:400}.c-siteMenuList_item small::before{content:" | "}.c-siteMenuList_label{color:#fff;opacity:.5}.c-siteMenuList_label:hover{color:#fff}.c-siteMenuList_link{display:block;color:inherit;cursor:pointer}.c-siteMenuList_link:hover{color:#3f8eff}.c-siteMenuList_link:hover>svg{fill:#3f8eff}.c-siteMenuList_linkIcon{width:14px;height:12px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:5px;fill:#fff}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteMenuList{max-width:420px;margin:0 1.5rem}}@media(min-width: 1230px){.large-header .c-siteMenuList{display:grid;max-width:initial;margin:auto}.large-header .c-siteMenuList_column{grid-column-end:span 2;position:relative}.large-header .c-siteMenuList_column-size-small{grid-column-end:span 1}.large-header .c-siteMenuList_column-size-large{grid-column-end:span 3}.large-header .c-siteMenuList_divider{position:absolute;top:32px;right:0;width:1px;bottom:32px;background:#383a42}} @media(min-width: 768px){.c-searchBar{width:100%}}@media(max-width: 1229px){.c-searchBar-grid{display:block}} .c-searchAutosuggest{position:relative;display:grid;grid-template-rows:repeat(2, auto);grid-template-columns:1fr auto;grid-gap:0 1rem;margin:1.5rem 0}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-searchAutosuggest{margin:2rem 0 2rem}}.c-searchAutosuggest input[type=text],.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit]{height:56px;line-height:54px;border-radius:3px;box-sizing:border-box;outline:none;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);appearance:none !important}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-searchAutosuggest input[type=text],.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit]{height:54px;line-height:52px}}.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit]{flex-grow:0;background-color:#44d8ff;color:#080a12;border:none;padding:0 16px;font-weight:600;text-transform:lowercase}.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit] svg{width:16px;height:16px;fill:#080a12;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:.5rem}.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit]:hover{background-color:#39d2ff}.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit]:active{background-color:#39d2ff}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-searchAutosuggest button[type=submit]{padding:0 77px}}.c-searchAutosuggest_input{background:rgba(0,0,0,0);color:#fff;border-radius:.25rem;display:block;outline:none;padding:.5rem 3rem .5rem 1rem;width:100%}.c-searchAutosuggest_input::placeholder{text-transform:lowercase;color:#fff}.c-searchAutosuggest_input.c-searchAutosuggest__input--open{border-bottom-left-radius:0;border-bottom-right-radius:0}.c-searchAutosuggest_searchIcon{position:absolute;top:1rem;right:1rem;fill:#fff;width:24px;aspect-ratio:1}.c-searchAutosuggest__results{background-color:#fff;color:#080a12;box-shadow:0 8px 16px rgba(0,0,0,.16);border-top:none;border-radius:0 0 .25rem .25rem;position:absolute;left:0;top:100%;width:100%;z-index:1}.c-searchAutosuggest__results-container{position:relative}.c-searchAutosuggest__results-item{cursor:pointer;padding:.5rem 1rem}.c-searchAutosuggest__results-item:hover,.c-searchAutosuggest__results-item--highlighted{color:#0058d5}.c-searchAutosuggest__results>ul:last-child .c-searchAutosuggest__results-item:last-child{border-radius:0 0 .25rem .25rem} .c-siteAccordionMenu{border-top:1px solid #383a42;line-height:80px;position:relative;z-index:2;font-weight:600}.c-siteAccordionMenu.c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{position:fixed;top:0;bottom:0}.c-siteAccordionMenu_content{width:100%;max-height:100%;overflow:auto}.c-siteAccordionMenu_content::after{content:"";padding-bottom:2rem;display:block}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section .c-siteAccordionMenu_item{opacity:0;visibility:hidden;max-height:0;line-height:20px;margin:0;transition:opacity .3s ease,max-height .3s .3s ease,margin .3s .3s ease,visibility 0s .3s}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section.is-expanded{border-bottom:1px solid #383a42}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section.is-expanded .c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle>svg{transform:rotateX(180deg)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section.is-expanded .c-siteAccordionMenu_item{visibility:visible;max-height:80px;margin:2rem 0;opacity:1;transition:opacity .3s .3s ease,max-height .3s ease,margin .3s ease}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item{color:#fff;font-size:13px;padding:0 calc(2rem/2)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item small{font-size:inherit;font-weight:400}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item small::before{content:" | "}.c-siteAccordionMenu_itemArrowIcon{width:15px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:5px;fill:#fff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item:hover{color:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item:hover svg{fill:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_link{-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);display:block;color:inherit}.c-siteAccordionMenu_link:hover{color:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton{border-bottom:1px solid #383a42;line-height:46px;padding:0 calc(2rem/2);cursor:pointer;display:block;text-align:right;box-sizing:border-box;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton>svg{width:17px;height:17px;fill:#fff;vertical-align:middle}.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton:hover>svg{fill:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle{position:relative;border-bottom:1px solid #383a42;padding:0 calc(2rem/2);font-size:18px;text-transform:lowercase;cursor:pointer;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle>svg{width:13px;height:7px;position:absolute;fill:#fff;top:35px;right:calc(2rem/2);transition:transform .3s ease}.c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle:hover>svg{fill:#3f8eff}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteAccordionMenu{width:468px}.c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle,.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton,.c-siteAccordionMenu_item{padding:0 2rem}.c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle>svg{right:2rem}} .c-scrollPercent{position:relative}.c-scrollPercent_marker{height:0;position:absolute;width:100%} .c-pageTopic_description{font-size:1.375rem;font-weight:600}.c-pageTopic_header{width:65%}.c-pageTopic_title{font-size:3rem;border-top:none}.c-pageTopic .c-listingLatest{border-top:solid 1px #000}.c-pageTopic .c-listingLatest_heading{font-size:1.125rem}.c-pageTopic .c-listingLatest_item{border-bottom:none} .c-dynamicHeader_title{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem;margin:0;padding:0;text-transform:initial;border:none}@media(max-width: 767px){.c-dynamicHeader_title{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem}}.c-dynamicHeader_desc{width:65%}@media(max-width: 767px){.c-dynamicHeader_desc{width:100%}} .c-listingCarouselHorizontal{border-top:1px solid #080a12}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal{width:100%}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator{width:100%;height:4.8px;display:block;position:relative;background:#fff;overflow:hidden}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator::after{content:""}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator::after{box-sizing:border-box;width:0;height:4.8px;background:#d0ff4b;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;animation:animFw 10s linear infinite}}@keyframes animFw{0%{width:0}100%{width:100%}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .c-sectionHeading{display:inline-block;border-top:none}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_subhead{display:none}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_subhead{display:inline-block;margin-left:.5rem}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item{display:block}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item.item-no-margin{margin-right:0}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink{display:block;color:#080a12}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile{width:100%;display:flex;overflow:auto;position:relative}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile ul{display:flex;gap:20px}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile ul li{width:306px}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile ul li:last-of-type .c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item{margin-right:0}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile ul li a{text-decoration:none}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .c-listingCarouselHorizontal_desktop{display:none}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile{display:none}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .c-listingCarouselHorizontal_desktop{display:flex;position:relative}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-slide{padding:0 10px}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-inner{justify-content:space-between}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-inner{margin-left:-10px}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-inner .VueCarousel-slide-active .c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item{margin-right:0}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-inner>div:first-child.VueCarousel-slide-active .c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item{margin-left:0}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation{position:absolute;right:8px}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation button:focus{outline:none !important}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-prev{left:45px}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-prev.hide{display:none}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-next{padding-left:5px;right:48px}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-button{top:80px;width:48px;height:48px;background:#44d8ff;border-radius:.25rem;position:relative}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-button:hover{background-color:#39d2ff}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-button svg{width:13px;height:13px;fill:#080a12}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal .VueCarousel-navigation .VueCarousel-navigation-button.VueCarousel-navigation--disabled{display:none} .VueCarousel { display: flex; flex-direction: column; position: relative; } .VueCarousel--reverse { flex-direction: column-reverse; } .VueCarousel-wrapper { width: 100%; position: relative; overflow: hidden; } .VueCarousel-inner { display: flex; flex-direction: row; backface-visibility: hidden; } .VueCarousel-inner--center { justify-content: center; } .VueCarousel-slide { flex-basis: inherit; flex-grow: 0; flex-shrink: 0; user-select: none; backface-visibility: hidden; -webkit-touch-callout: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); outline: none; } .VueCarousel-slide-adjustableHeight { display: table; flex-basis: auto; width: 100%; } .c-cmsImage{display:block;width:100%;background:rgba(0,0,0,.05)}.c-cmsImage img{display:block;width:100%;height:auto}.c-cmsImage img[src=""]{visibility:hidden} .c-dynamicListing_listing h3{margin:0}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-dynamicListing_listing h3{margin:0 0 1.5rem}} .c-listingLatest{position:relative}.c-listingLatest_heading{margin:.5rem 0 0 0}.c-listingLatest_item{padding:1rem 0;border-bottom:1px solid #e1e0e3}.c-listingLatest_item:nth-child(9){border-bottom:none}.c-listingLatest_itemLink{display:block;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem;color:#080a12;font-weight:600}.c-listingLatest_itemLink:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingLatest_pubDate{font-size:.813rem;color:#505259}.c-listingLatest .c-listingLatest_showAll{margin-bottom:1.5rem;margin-right:0}.c-listingLatest .c-listingLatest_showAll svg{display:inline-block;width:15px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:10px}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingLatest_heading{margin:1.5rem 0}.c-listingLatest_item{padding:1.5rem 0}.c-listingLatest_item:nth-child(1){padding-top:0}} .c-listingFiveStory_heading{grid-gap:1.25rem}.c-listingFiveStory_heading .c-sectionHeading{border:none;margin-bottom:.5rem}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingFiveStory_heading .c-sectionHeading{margin-bottom:1.5rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_titleWrapper{grid-gap:0;margin-bottom:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingFiveStory_titleWrapper{flex-direction:row;align-items:center;grid-gap:1.25rem;margin-bottom:0}}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll{margin-left:auto;font-size:.813rem;font-weight:400;color:#080a12;grid-gap:.25rem}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll-topic{display:none}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll-topic{display:inline}}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll svg{width:1rem;aspect-ratio:1}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll:hover svg{fill:#0058d5}.c-listingFiveStory_container{margin-bottom:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_container{flex-direction:row;gap:0 1.5rem;margin-bottom:2rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_first-item-container,.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{width:100%}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_first-item-container,.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{width:50%}}.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{display:grid;gap:1rem;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{gap:1.5rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_image{display:block;width:100%}.c-listingFiveStory_item{position:relative;color:#080a12;flex-direction:column}.c-listingFiveStory_item span{color:inherit;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem;margin-bottom:0}.c-listingFiveStory_item--first span{margin-bottom:.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_item--first span{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.275rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_item:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingFiveStory_item:hover img{opacity:.8} .c-listingDefault_itemLink{color:#080a12}.c-listingDefault_author,.c-listingDefault_topic{color:#080a12}.c-listingDefault_author:hover,.c-listingDefault_topic:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingDefault .u-grid-columns{grid-template-columns:1fr 4fr}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingDefault .u-grid-columns{grid-template-columns:2fr 4fr}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingDefault_title{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.75rem;padding-top:5px}}.c-listingDefault_description{display:none;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;overflow:hidden;color:#080a12}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingDefault_description{display:-webkit-box}}.c-listingDefault_itemImage{margin-top:5px}.c-listingDefault_item:hover .c-listingDefault_itemImage{opacity:.9}.c-listingDefault_item:hover .c-listingDefault_title{color:#0058d5}.c-listingDefault_pubDate:hover{color:#080a12} .c-loadMoreButton_svg{display:inline-block}.c-loadMoreButton_svg svg{display:inline-block;width:15px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:10px;transform:rotate(90deg)}.c-loadMoreButton_link{height:64px;display:flex;justify-content:center;align-items:center;margin:auto;max-width:416px;width:100%}.c-loadMoreButton_text{display:inline-block} .c-globalSticky{display:initial;overflow:initial;flex:1;margin-bottom:calc(var(--mpu-margin-bottom, 0)*1px)}.c-globalSticky:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.c-globalSticky:nth-child(1 of .c-globalSticky){padding-top:calc(var(--first-elem-padding-top, 0)*1px)}.c-globalSticky_element{position:sticky;top:calc(var(--toc-height, 200px) + var(--toc-top-margin-sticky, 0px) + 32px)} .c-siteFooter{z-index:1;position:relative;background:#20222a;overflow:hidden}.c-siteFooter .c-siteFooter_background{width:0}.c-siteFooter .c-siteFooter_background img[src=""]{opacity:0}.c-siteFooter .c-siteFooter_background img{transition:opacity 1s ease;opacity:1;object-fit:cover;position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;left:0;top:0}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter{padding:0 3rem 3rem 3rem}}.c-siteFooter_container{position:relative}.c-siteFooter_logoLink{display:block}.c-siteFooter_logo{left:50%;margin-left:-50vw;right:50%;margin-right:-50vw;max-width:100vw;position:relative;width:100vw;fill:#fff;aspect-ratio:814/150}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_logo{margin-bottom:2rem}}.c-siteFooter_site-name{visibility:hidden;height:0}.c-siteFooter_slogan{display:block;margin-top:1.5rem;margin-bottom:1rem;font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem;color:#fff;font-weight:600}.c-siteFooter_logo-connect-grid{--grid-cols: 2;grid-row-gap:1rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteFooter_logo-connect-grid{--grid-cols: 6}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_logo-connect-grid{--grid-cols: 6;grid-row-gap:2rem}}.c-siteFooter_connect-column{display:block}.c-siteFooter_connect-grid{--grid-cols: 2;margin:auto}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteFooter_connect-grid{--grid-cols: 6}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_connect-grid{--grid-cols: 5;margin-top:1rem;margin-right:3rem;grid-row-gap:2rem}}@media(min-width: 1230px){.c-siteFooter_connect-grid{--grid-cols: 7;margin:0}}.c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper{margin:1.5rem 0 1.5rem 0}.c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper .c-socialSharebar_container{justify-content:space-between}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper .c-socialSharebar_container{justify-content:flex-start}}.c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper .c-socialSharebar_container .c-socialSharebar_icon{width:fit-content;height:fit-content}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper .c-socialSharebar_container .c-socialSharebar_icon{flex-grow:1;margin-right:0}}.c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper .c-socialSharebar_container .c-socialSharebar_icon svg{height:24px;width:24px;fill:#fff}.c-siteFooter_copyright-policies{--grid-cols: 2}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteFooter_copyright-policies{--grid-cols: 6}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_copyright-policies{--grid-cols: 6;text-align:initial;margin-top:1.5rem}}.c-siteFooter_column-links-grid{--grid-cols: 2}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteFooter_column-links-grid{--grid-cols: 6}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_column-links-grid{--grid-cols: 6;margin-top:.5rem}}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter_slogan{margin:0;font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem;padding-right:3rem}}@media(min-width: 2000px){.c-siteFooter_logo{left:0;margin:0 auto;display:block;max-width:1296px;position:relative;right:0;width:1296px}} .c-siteFooterColumnLinks{margin-top:1.5rem}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks:first-child{margin-top:0}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-siteFooterColumnLinks{margin-top:0}}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks a{color:#fff;text-transform:lowercase;display:inline-block}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks a:hover{color:#3f8eff;cursor:pointer}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks a:hover svg{fill:#ff435a}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks_beta li:first-child a{text-transform:none}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks_charlie .loggedin,.c-siteFooterColumnLinks_charlie .hide{display:none}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooterColumnLinks_charlie{text-align:left}}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks ul>li{transform:translateZ(0)}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks ul>li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks .c-siteFooter_link{margin-bottom:1.5rem;color:#fff}.c-siteFooterColumnLinks .c-siteFooter_link-userIcon{width:16px;height:16px;fill:#fff;margin-left:calc(0.5rem/2);vertical-align:middle} .c-siteFooterUserMenu_authLinks{color:#fff;text-transform:lowercase;display:inline-block}.c-siteFooterUserMenu_authLinks:hover{color:#3f8eff;cursor:pointer}.c-siteFooterUserMenu_authLinks:hover svg{fill:#ff435a} .c-socialSharebar{position:relative;font-size:1.375rem}.c-socialSharebar_container{display:flex;padding:0;user-select:none}.c-socialSharebar_container-dropdown{visibility:hidden;position:absolute;bottom:2.5rem;padding:1.5rem;background:#fff;box-shadow:0 4px 16px rgba(8,10,18,.05);z-index:1;opacity:0;transform:translateY(10px);transition:opacity .4s,transform .4s,visibility 0s .4s}.c-socialSharebar_container-dropdownOpen{transform:none;transition:opacity .4s,transform .4s;opacity:1;visibility:visible}.c-socialSharebar_container-dropdown .c-socialSharebar_button-comments{display:none}.c-socialSharebar_button{cursor:pointer;display:flex;justify-content:center;align-items:center}.c-socialSharebar_button:not(:last-child){margin-right:2rem}.c-socialSharebar_button:hover{opacity:.7}.c-socialSharebar_button-active svg{fill:#0058d5}.c-socialSharebar_icon{display:block;width:18px;height:18px} .c-siteFooterCopyright{margin:0;color:#fff;font-size:.938rem;line-height:1.25rem}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooterCopyright{display:inline-block;text-align:left}} .c-siteFooterPolicies{display:inline;color:#fff;font-size:.938rem;line-height:1.25rem;font-weight:600}.c-siteFooterPolicies div{display:inline}.c-siteFooterPolicies a,.c-siteFooterPolicies div{color:#fff;margin:0 .5rem}.c-siteFooterPolicies a:hover,.c-siteFooterPolicies div:hover{color:#3f8eff;cursor:pointer}.c-siteFooterPolicies a:first-child,.c-siteFooterPolicies div:first-child{margin:0 .5rem 0 0}</style> </head> <body > <div data-server-rendered="true" id="__nuxt"><div id="__layout"><div class="c-layoutDefault" data-v-60affc28><svg class="c-globalSvgs" data-v-60affc28=""><symbol id="android" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M15.9591 0.697571L15.1162 2.66445C16.832 3.5964 17.999 5.41526 17.999 7.5011C17.999 7.77708 17.775 8.00108 17.499 8.00108H7.49974C7.22376 8.00108 6.99976 7.77708 6.99976 7.5011C6.99976 5.41526 8.16667 3.5964 9.88354 2.66445L9.0406 0.697571C8.93157 0.444558 9.04857 0.150578 9.30256 0.0416011C9.55356 -0.0693912 9.85054 0.0496162 9.95853 0.304599L10.8034 2.27246C11.3384 2.09847 11.9084 2.0015 12.5003 2.0015C13.0923 2.0015 13.6622 2.09847 14.1972 2.27246L15.0401 0.304599C15.1481 0.0496162 15.4451 -0.0684069 15.6961 0.0416011C15.9501 0.150625 16.0681 0.443573 15.9591 0.697571ZM9.9995 5.50122C9.9995 5.7772 10.2235 6.0012 10.4995 6.0012C10.7755 6.0012 10.9995 5.7772 10.9995 5.50122C10.9995 5.22524 10.7755 5.00124 10.4995 5.00124C10.2235 5.00124 9.9995 5.22524 9.9995 5.50122ZM13.9993 5.50122C13.9993 5.7772 14.2233 6.0012 14.4992 6.0012C14.7752 6.0012 14.9992 5.7772 14.9992 5.50122C14.9992 5.22524 14.7752 5.00124 14.4992 5.00124C14.2233 5.00124 13.9993 5.22524 13.9993 5.50122ZM7.49969 9.00073H17.499C17.775 9.00073 17.999 9.22375 17.999 9.50071V17.5002C17.999 18.7081 17.139 19.7181 15.9991 19.95V22.4998C15.9991 23.3268 15.3261 23.9997 14.4992 23.9997C13.6722 23.9997 12.9993 23.3268 12.9993 22.4998V20H11.9994V22.4998C11.9994 23.3268 11.3264 23.9997 10.4995 23.9997C9.67252 23.9997 8.99959 23.3268 8.99959 22.4998V19.95C7.85967 19.717 6.99971 18.7081 6.99971 17.5002V9.50071C6.99971 9.22473 7.22371 9.00073 7.49969 9.00073ZM20.4988 9.00073C19.6719 9.00073 18.9989 9.67367 18.9989 10.5006V15.5003C18.9989 16.3273 19.6719 17.0002 20.4988 17.0002C21.3258 17.0002 21.9987 16.3273 21.9987 15.5003V10.5006C21.9987 9.67372 21.3258 9.00073 20.4988 9.00073ZM3 10.5006C3 9.67367 3.67294 9.00073 4.4999 9.00073C5.32685 9.00073 5.99979 9.67372 5.99979 10.5006V15.5003C5.99979 16.3273 5.32685 17.0002 4.4999 17.0002C3.67294 17.0002 3 16.3273 3 15.5003V10.5006Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="arrow-back" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="white"><path d="M16 4L8 12L16 20" stroke="black" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round"/></symbol> <symbol id="avatar" viewBox="0 0 200 200"><rect fill="#efefef" width="200" height="200"/><path fill="#bdbdbd" d="M167,199.87H32.76q-1-8.77-2-17.64c-.22-1.95-.42-3.9-.66-5.85A42.19,42.19,0,0,1,32.45,156c.67-1.76,2.15-3.23,3.25-4.88.3.1.75.38.89.28,4.45-3.66,9.75-5.13,15.25-6.55a48.58,48.58,0,0,0,23.42-13.9c.92-1,2.64-1.82,1.26-3.65-.06-18.16,0-18.16-8.09-33.51-.3-.58-.57-1.35-1.06-1.63-4.88-2.73-4.88-8-6.38-12.4A4.07,4.07,0,0,1,62.24,76c2.08-1.1,1.56-2.48,1.46-4.15-.45-7.24-1.16-14.5-1-21.74.16-8.67,2.84-16.59,9.86-22.33,1-.19,2.26,0,2.92-.61,6-5.29,13.1-8.13,20.83-9.56,2.07-.38,4.32-.87,6.31-.44,10.85,2.32,20.63,6.68,27.62,15.86.37.46,1.34.45,2,.66a24.32,24.32,0,0,1,4.88,15.2c.06,7-.54,14.09-.83,21.12-.07,1.81,0,3.62,0,5.42-.47,2.35,2.06,2.54,2.84,4a36.83,36.83,0,0,1-1.06,5.3c-.69,2-1.29,4.45-2.77,5.65-6.51,5.28-8.07,13.25-11.37,20.2-1.24,2.6-.53,6.14-.63,9.25-.08,2.47,0,5,0,7.42-1.47,1.78.29,2.59,1.15,3.62,4.28,5.11,10.11,8.1,15.76,11.31,3.58,1.13,7.1,2.48,10.74,3.35,4.7,1.12,9,2.71,12.45,6.3.33.34,1.13.21,1.69.31,5.31,7.52,5.48,16,4.54,24.65C168.78,184.51,167.88,192.2,167,199.87Z"/><path fill="#b1b1b1" d="M132.27,33.72c-.69-.21-1.67-.2-2-.67-7-9.17-16.77-13.53-27.63-15.85-2-.43-4.23.06-6.3.44-7.73,1.43-14.83,4.27-20.83,9.56-.64.57-2,.42-2.92.6C77.24,23.15,83,20.11,89,17.67a29.22,29.22,0,0,1,20.93-.39A46.29,46.29,0,0,1,127,27.17C129,29.08,130.53,31.52,132.27,33.72Z"/><path fill="#b2b2b2" d="M76.57,127.31c1.38,1.83-.35,2.67-1.26,3.65a48.63,48.63,0,0,1-23.42,13.9c-5.46,1.42-10.8,2.93-15.26,6.54-.13.11-.58-.17-.88-.27,3.21-4.13,7.64-5.85,12.6-7C59.51,141.52,69.27,136.48,76.57,127.31Z"/><path fill="#b1b1b1" d="M165.08,152.2c-.56-.1-1.36,0-1.68-.31-3.43-3.59-7.76-5.18-12.46-6.3-3.63-.87-7.15-2.22-10.74-3.36l1.07-1c4.08,1.11,8.17,2.19,12.25,3.35C158.18,145.83,162.28,148,165.08,152.2Z"/><path fill="#b4b4b4" d="M141.28,141.16l-1.07,1c-5.65-3.2-11.48-6.19-15.76-11.3-.86-1-2.62-1.84-1.15-3.62,3.54,5.08,8.61,8.3,13.82,11.36Z"/><path fill="#b1b1b1" d="M139.14,79.45c-.78-1.45-3.31-1.65-2.84-4C138.6,75.82,139.33,77.32,139.14,79.45Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="carat" viewBox="0 0 4 8"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0 8L4 3.95939L0.0804124 0L0 8Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="caret" viewBox="0 0 16 28"><path d="M0.6,27.4c0.8,0.8,2,0.8,2.8,0l12-12c0.8-0.8,0.8-2,0-2.8l-12-12C3,0.2,2.5,0,2,0C1.5,0,1,0.2,0.6,0.6 c-0.8,0.8-0.8,2,0,2.8L11.2,14L0.6,24.6C-0.2,25.4-0.2,26.6,0.6,27.4z"/></symbol> <symbol id="close" viewBox="0 0 224.512 224.512"><g><polygon points="224.507,6.997 217.521,0 112.256,105.258 6.998,0 0.005,6.997 105.263,112.254 0.005,217.512 6.998,224.512 112.256,119.24 217.521,224.512 224.507,217.512 119.249,112.254"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="minus" viewBox="0 0 13 1"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0 0.5C0 0.223858 0.223858 0 0.5 0H12.5C12.7761 0 13 0.223858 13 0.5C13 0.776143 12.7761 1 12.5 1H0.5C0.223858 1 0 0.776143 0 0.5Z" fill="#080A12"/></symbol> <symbol id="plus" viewBox="0 0 13 13"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0 6.5C0 6.22386 0.223858 6 0.5 6H12.5C12.7761 6 13 6.22386 13 6.5C13 6.77614 12.7761 7 12.5 7H0.5C0.223858 7 0 6.77614 0 6.5Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M6.5 13C6.22386 13 6 12.7761 6 12.5V0.5C6 0.223858 6.22386 0 6.5 0C6.77614 0 7 0.223858 7 0.5V12.5C7 12.7761 6.77614 13 6.5 13Z" fill="#080A12"/></symbol> <symbol id="arrowNavigation" viewBox="0 0 12 21"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><path id="next-arrow" d="M-5.88468462,4.30628135 L-5.88468462,3.33793528 L8.61614419,3.33793528 L8.61614419,5.27462742 L-3.95902124,5.27462742 L-3.95902124,17.8776664 L-5.88468462,17.8776664 L-5.88468462,4.30628135 Z" fill="#000" transform="translate(1.365730, 10.607801) rotate(-225.000000) translate(-1.365730, -10.607801) "/></g></symbol> <symbol id="cnet" viewBox="0 0 67 48"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M19.3711 0H16.3711V48H19.3711V0ZM4.11172 17.4843C4.14876 14.4547 9.48203 14.3452 9.48203 17.3383L9.51907 19.9299H13.5931V17.5208C13.8524 9.49041 -0.11045 9.49041 0.000659638 17.3383V31.1725C-0.11045 39.0204 13.8894 39.2029 13.6301 31.1725V28.2889H9.48203V31.3915C9.48203 34.3847 4.1858 34.4577 4.11172 31.3915V17.4843ZM29.8891 12.3012C28.0373 13.3233 27.3336 14.3453 27.3336 14.3453V12.1187H21.5188V15.1119L23.7781 15.1484V33.5088H21.8522V36.502H27.8891V17.083C27.9262 14.1628 32.815 14.0898 32.815 16.937V36.502H39.5557V33.5088H36.9261V17.1195C36.778 14.9309 36.0753 12.9611 34.2265 12.157C34.5364 12.2905 32.2495 11.029 29.8891 12.3012ZM57.815 31.0998C57.9628 33.2849 58.6637 35.252 60.506 36.0585C60.2195 35.9347 61.4617 36.5381 62.7039 36.5021H66.6668V33.5089C66.6668 33.5089 65.0001 33.4724 64.1113 33.5089C63.0002 33.5089 62.0372 32.9979 61.9631 31.4283V15.185V15.1485H65.9261V12.1918H61.9631V12.1553V5.84048H57.815V31.0998ZM50.3336 31.355V28.2889H54.4817V31.1725C54.741 39.2029 40.7411 39.0204 40.8522 31.1725V17.3383C40.7411 9.49041 54.7039 9.49041 54.4447 17.5208V24.1642C54.4447 24.5657 54.1113 24.8942 53.7039 24.8942H44.9633V31.355C45.0003 34.4212 50.3336 34.3482 50.3336 31.355ZM50.3336 17.3383C50.3336 14.3087 45.0374 14.3087 44.9633 17.3018H45.0003V21.8645H50.3336V17.3383Z" fill="black"/></symbol> <symbol id="bell" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><g><path d="M15.137 3.945c-.644-.374-1.042-1.07-1.041-1.82v-.003c.001-1.172-.938-2.122-2.096-2.122s-2.097.95-2.097 2.122v.003c.001.751-.396 1.446-1.041 1.82-4.667 2.712-1.985 11.715-6.862 13.306v1.749h20v-1.749c-4.877-1.591-2.195-10.594-6.863-13.306zm-3.137-2.945c.552 0 1 .449 1 1 0 .552-.448 1-1 1s-1-.448-1-1c0-.551.448-1 1-1zm3 20c0 1.598-1.392 3-2.971 3s-3.029-1.402-3.029-3h6z"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="closed-captions" viewBox="0 0 17 12"><path d="M8.08596 4.47399C7.49663 3.75465 6.76863 3.39499 5.90196 3.39499C5.52063 3.39499 5.16529 3.46432 4.83596 3.60299C4.51529 3.74165 4.23796 3.93232 4.00396 4.17499C3.76996 4.40899 3.58363 4.69065 3.44496 5.01999C3.31496 5.34932 3.24996 5.70465 3.24996 6.08599C3.24996 6.47599 3.31496 6.83565 3.44496 7.16499C3.58363 7.49432 3.76996 7.78032 4.00396 8.02299C4.24663 8.26565 4.52829 8.45632 4.84896 8.59499C5.16963 8.73365 5.51629 8.80299 5.88896 8.80299C6.70363 8.80299 7.43596 8.45632 8.08596 7.76299V10.779L7.82596 10.87C7.43596 11.0087 7.07196 11.1083 6.73396 11.169C6.39596 11.2383 6.06229 11.273 5.73296 11.273C5.05696 11.273 4.40696 11.1473 3.78296 10.896C3.16763 10.636 2.62163 10.2763 2.14496 9.81699C1.67696 9.34899 1.29996 8.79865 1.01396 8.16599C0.727961 7.52465 0.584961 6.82699 0.584961 6.07299C0.584961 5.31899 0.723628 4.62999 1.00096 4.00599C1.28696 3.37332 1.66396 2.83165 2.13196 2.38099C2.60863 1.92165 3.15896 1.56632 3.78296 1.31499C4.40696 1.05499 5.06129 0.924988 5.74596 0.924988C6.13596 0.924988 6.51729 0.968321 6.88996 1.05499C7.27129 1.13299 7.66996 1.25865 8.08596 1.43199V4.47399Z" fill="white"/> <path d="M16.7569 4.47399C16.1675 3.75465 15.4395 3.39499 14.5729 3.39499C14.1915 3.39499 13.8362 3.46432 13.5069 3.60299C13.1862 3.74165 12.9089 3.93232 12.6749 4.17499C12.4409 4.40899 12.2545 4.69065 12.1159 5.01999C11.9859 5.34932 11.9209 5.70465 11.9209 6.08599C11.9209 6.47599 11.9859 6.83565 12.1159 7.16499C12.2545 7.49432 12.4409 7.78032 12.6749 8.02299C12.9175 8.26565 13.1992 8.45632 13.5199 8.59499C13.8405 8.73365 14.1872 8.80299 14.5599 8.80299C15.3745 8.80299 16.1069 8.45632 16.7569 7.76299V10.779L16.4969 10.87C16.1069 11.0087 15.7429 11.1083 15.4049 11.169C15.0669 11.2383 14.7332 11.273 14.4039 11.273C13.7279 11.273 13.0779 11.1473 12.4539 10.896C11.8385 10.636 11.2925 10.2763 10.8159 9.81699C10.3479 9.34899 9.97086 8.79865 9.68486 8.16599C9.39886 7.52465 9.25586 6.82699 9.25586 6.07299C9.25586 5.31899 9.39453 4.62999 9.67186 4.00599C9.95786 3.37332 10.3349 2.83165 10.8029 2.38099C11.2795 1.92165 11.8299 1.56632 12.4539 1.31499C13.0779 1.05499 13.7322 0.924988 14.4169 0.924988C14.8069 0.924988 15.1882 0.968321 15.5609 1.05499C15.9422 1.13299 16.3409 1.25865 16.7569 1.43199V4.47399Z" fill="white"/></symbol> <symbol id="comments" viewBox="0 0 21.5 24"><path d="M18.2 0h-15C1.5 0 0 1.5 0 3.3v11c0 1.8 1.5 3.3 3.3 3.3h1.9l.7 5.4.1 1 .7-.8 4.9-5.7h6.6c1.8 0 3.3-1.5 3.3-3.3v-11C21.5 1.5 20 0 18.2 0zm2.4 14.2c0 1.3-1 2.3-2.3 2.3h-7l-.3.2-4.3 5.1-.6-4.8-.1-.4H3.3c-1.3 0-2.3-1-2.3-2.3v-11C1 2 2 1 3.3 1h15c1.3 0 2.3 1 2.3 2.3v10.9z"/></symbol> <symbol id="comment-bubble" viewBox="0 0 15 13"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M7.349 1C3.77 1 1.09 3.248 1.09 5.78c0 .845.289 1.645.808 2.345.205.277.276.656.133 1.004l-1.028 2.507 3.602-1.334c.205-.075.423-.08.624-.024a7.969 7.969 0 0 0 2.12.282c3.578 0 6.258-2.248 6.258-4.78S10.927 1 7.35 1zM.09 5.78C.09 2.48 3.462 0 7.35 0c3.887 0 7.258 2.48 7.258 5.78 0 3.3-3.371 5.78-7.258 5.78a8.97 8.97 0 0 1-2.387-.319h-.01L1.35 12.572c-.817.303-1.603-.511-1.273-1.317l1.029-2.507v-.004a.055.055 0 0 0-.01-.024C.461 7.867.09 6.861.09 5.78z"/></symbol> <symbol id="copy" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.75 1.25C1.92157 1.25 1.25 1.92157 1.25 2.75V9.5C1.25 10.1904 1.80964 10.75 2.5 10.75C2.77614 10.75 3 10.9739 3 11.25C3 11.5261 2.77614 11.75 2.5 11.75C1.25736 11.75 0.25 10.7426 0.25 9.5V2.75C0.25 1.36929 1.36929 0.25 2.75 0.25H9.5C10.7426 0.25 11.75 1.25736 11.75 2.5C11.75 2.77614 11.5261 3 11.25 3C10.9739 3 10.75 2.77614 10.75 2.5C10.75 1.80964 10.1904 1.25 9.5 1.25H2.75Z" fill="white"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M6.75 5.25C5.92157 5.25 5.25 5.92157 5.25 6.75V13.25C5.25 14.0784 5.92157 14.75 6.75 14.75H13.25C14.0784 14.75 14.75 14.0784 14.75 13.25V6.75C14.75 5.92157 14.0784 5.25 13.25 5.25H6.75ZM4.25 6.75C4.25 5.36929 5.36929 4.25 6.75 4.25H13.25C14.6307 4.25 15.75 5.36929 15.75 6.75V13.25C15.75 14.6307 14.6307 15.75 13.25 15.75H6.75C5.36929 15.75 4.25 14.6307 4.25 13.25V6.75Z" fill="white"/></symbol> <symbol id="email" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><path d="M0 0h24v24H0z"/><path d="M20.242 4H3.758A1.76 1.76 0 002 5.758v11.719a1.76 1.76 0 001.758 1.757h16.484A1.76 1.76 0 0022 17.477V5.757A1.76 1.76 0 0020.242 4zM20 5.172l-7.962 7.962-8.03-7.962h15.992zM3.172 17.234V5.994l5.644 5.596-5.644 5.644zm.829.829l5.647-5.648 1.979 1.962c.229.227.598.226.826-.002l1.93-1.93 5.616 5.618H4.001zm16.827-.83l-5.617-5.616L20.828 6v11.234z" fill="#000" fill-rule="nonzero"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="embed" viewBox="0 0 18 14"><g clip-path="url(#clip0_284:1096)"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M10.6464 0.646447C10.8417 0.451184 11.1583 0.451184 11.3536 0.646447L17.3536 6.64645C17.5488 6.84171 17.5488 7.15829 17.3536 7.35355L11.3536 13.3536C11.1583 13.5488 10.8417 13.5488 10.6464 13.3536C10.4512 13.1583 10.4512 12.8417 10.6464 12.6464L16.2929 7L10.6464 1.35355C10.4512 1.15829 10.4512 0.841709 10.6464 0.646447Z" fill="white"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M7.35355 0.646447C7.15829 0.451184 6.84171 0.451184 6.64645 0.646447L0.646446 6.64645C0.451184 6.84171 0.451184 7.15829 0.646446 7.35355L6.64645 13.3536C6.84171 13.5488 7.15829 13.5488 7.35355 13.3536C7.54882 13.1583 7.54882 12.8417 7.35355 12.6464L1.70711 7L7.35355 1.35355C7.54882 1.15829 7.54882 0.841709 7.35355 0.646447Z" fill="white"/></g> <defs><clipPath id="clip0_284:1096"><rect width="14" height="18" fill="white" transform="translate(18) rotate(90)"/></clipPath></defs></symbol> <symbol id="facebook" viewBox="0 0 12 24"><path d="M3 8H0V12H3V24H8V12H11.642L12 8H8V6.333C8 5.378 8.192 5 9.115 5H12V0H8.192C4.596 0 3 1.583 3 4.615V8Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="gallery" viewBox="0 0 36 22"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><path d="M0 29h36V-7H0z"/> <g fill="#000"><path d="M34 3H5c-1.104 0-2 .896-2 2v15c0 1.104.896 2 2 2h29c1.104 0 2-.896 2-2V5c0-1.104-.896-2-2-2m0 1c.551 0 1 .449 1 1v15c0 .551-.449 1-1 1H5c-.551 0-1-.449-1-1V5c0-.551.449-1 1-1h29"/> <path d="M.5 20c-.276 0-.5-.224-.5-.5v-17C0 1.122 1.122 0 2.5 0h31c.276 0 .5.224.5.5s-.224.5-.5.5h-31C1.673 1 1 1.673 1 2.5v17c0 .276-.224.5-.5.5"/> <path d="M32.5 19c-.128 0-.256-.049-.354-.146l-7.585-7.586c-.567-.567-1.555-.567-2.122 0l-4.171 4.171c-.975.975-2.561.975-3.536 0l-1.171-1.171c-.567-.567-1.555-.567-2.122 0l-4.585 4.586c-.196.195-.512.195-.708 0-.195-.196-.195-.512 0-.708l4.586-4.585c.945-.945 2.591-.945 3.536 0l1.171 1.171c.567.567 1.555.567 2.122 0l4.171-4.171c.945-.945 2.591-.945 3.536 0l7.586 7.585c.195.196.195.512 0 .708-.098.097-.226.146-.354.146M10 7c-1.104 0-2 .896-2 2s.896 2 2 2 2-.896 2-2-.896-2-2-2m0 1c.551 0 1 .449 1 1 0 .551-.449 1-1 1-.551 0-1-.449-1-1 0-.551.449-1 1-1"/></g></g></symbol> <symbol id="file" viewBox="0 0 14 16"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.5 0C1.11929 0 0 1.11929 0 2.5V13C0 14.3807 1.11929 15.5 2.5 15.5H11C12.3807 15.5 13.5 14.3807 13.5 13V4.75C13.5 4.61739 13.4473 4.49021 13.3536 4.39645L9.10355 0.146447C9.00979 0.0526784 8.88261 0 8.75 0H2.5ZM1 2.5C1 1.67157 1.67157 1 2.5 1H8V5C8 5.27614 8.22386 5.5 8.5 5.5H12.5V13C12.5 13.8285 11.8285 14.5 11 14.5H2.5C1.67157 14.5 1 13.8285 1 13V2.5ZM12.0429 4.5L9 1.45711V4.5H12.0429ZM4 11C4 10.7239 4.22386 10.5 4.5 10.5H9C9.27614 10.5 9.5 10.7239 9.5 11C9.5 11.2761 9.27614 11.5 9 11.5H4.5C4.22386 11.5 4 11.2761 4 11ZM4.5 7.5C4.22386 7.5 4 7.72386 4 8C4 8.27614 4.22386 8.5 4.5 8.5H9C9.27614 8.5 9.5 8.27614 9.5 8C9.5 7.72386 9.27614 7.5 9 7.5H4.5Z" fill="#080A12"/></symbol> <symbol id="flipboard" viewBox="0 0 448 512"><path d="M0 32v448h448V32H0zm358.4 179.2h-89.6v89.6h-89.6v89.6H89.6V121.6h268.8v89.6z"/></symbol> <symbol id="fullscreen" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path d="M16 6H14.6667V1.33333H10V0H16V6ZM10 16V14.6667H14.6667V10H16V16H10ZM0 10H1.33333V14.6667H6V16H0V10ZM6 0V1.33333H1.33333V6H0V0H6Z" fill="white"/></symbol> <symbol id="galleryIcon" viewBox="0 0 19 12"><path d="M17.9444 1.63636C18.5271 1.63636 19 2.12509 19 2.72727V10.9091C19 11.5113 18.5271 12 17.9444 12H2.63889C2.05622 12 1.58333 11.5113 1.58333 10.9091V2.72727C1.58333 2.12509 2.05622 1.63636 2.63889 1.63636H17.9444ZM17.9444 2.18182H2.63889C2.34808 2.18182 2.11111 2.42673 2.11111 2.72727V10.9091C2.11111 11.2096 2.34808 11.4545 2.63889 11.4545H17.9444C18.2353 11.4545 18.4722 11.2096 18.4722 10.9091V2.72727C18.4722 2.42673 18.2353 2.18182 17.9444 2.18182ZM17.6806 0C17.8262 0 17.9444 0.122182 17.9444 0.272727C17.9444 0.423273 17.8262 0.545455 17.6806 0.545455H1.31944C0.882972 0.545455 0.527778 0.912546 0.527778 1.36364V10.6364C0.527778 10.7869 0.409555 10.9091 0.263889 10.9091C0.118222 10.9091 0 10.7869 0 10.6364V1.36364C0 0.612 0.592167 0 1.31944 0H17.6806ZM13.3359 5.76055L17.3396 9.89782C17.4425 10.0047 17.4425 10.1771 17.3396 10.284C17.2879 10.3369 17.2203 10.3636 17.1528 10.3636C17.0852 10.3636 17.0177 10.3369 16.9659 10.284L12.9628 6.14618C12.6635 5.83691 12.1421 5.83691 11.8428 6.14618L9.64144 8.42127C9.12686 8.95309 8.28981 8.95309 7.77522 8.42127L7.15719 7.78255C6.85794 7.47327 6.3365 7.47327 6.03725 7.78255L3.61739 10.284C3.51394 10.3904 3.34717 10.3904 3.24372 10.284C3.14081 10.1771 3.14081 10.0047 3.24372 9.89782L5.66411 7.39691C6.16286 6.88145 7.03158 6.88145 7.53033 7.39691L8.14836 8.03564C8.44761 8.34491 8.96906 8.34491 9.26831 8.03564L11.4697 5.76055C11.9684 5.24509 12.8371 5.24509 13.3359 5.76055ZM5.27778 3.81818C5.86044 3.81818 6.33333 4.30691 6.33333 4.90909C6.33333 5.51127 5.86044 6 5.27778 6C4.69511 6 4.22222 5.51127 4.22222 4.90909C4.22222 4.30691 4.69511 3.81818 5.27778 3.81818ZM5.27778 4.36364C4.98697 4.36364 4.75 4.60855 4.75 4.90909C4.75 5.20964 4.98697 5.45455 5.27778 5.45455C5.56858 5.45455 5.80556 5.20964 5.80556 4.90909C5.80556 4.60855 5.56858 4.36364 5.27778 4.36364Z" fill="#666666"/></symbol> <symbol id="galleryOverlay" viewBox="0 0 70 70"><circle cx="35" cy="35" r="33"/> <path d="M35,2c18.2,0,33,14.8,33,33S53.2,68,35,68S2,53.2,2,35S16.8,2,35,2 M35,0C15.7,0,0,15.7,0,35s15.7,35,35,35 s35-15.7,35-35S54.3,0,35,0L35,0z" class="overlayBorder"/> <circle cx="30.5" cy="34.2" r="1.8" class="overlayIcon"/> <polygon points="21.2,41.3 19.1,41.3 19.1,22.9 45.5,22.9 45.5,25 21.2,25 " class="overlayIcon"/> <path d="M48.9,30v15.1h-23V30H48.9 M50.9,28h-27v19.1h27V28L50.9,28z" class="overlayIcon"/> <polygon points="29,42.8 33.1,37.5 35.7,40 40.4,33.6 46.6,42.8 " class="overlayIcon"/></symbol> <symbol id="googleplus" viewBox="0 0 32 32"><path d="M18.8,1c1.1-0.6,1.6-1,1.6-1H9.9C7.8,0,2,2.4,2,7.9c0,5.5,6,6.7,8.2,6.6C9,16,10,17.4,10.7,18.1 c0.7,0.7,0.5,0.9-0.3,0.9C9.7,19,0,19.1,0,26s12.8,7.4,17.1,3.7s3.3-8.9,0-11.2c-3.3-2.3-4.5-3.4-2.4-5.3 c2.1-1.8,3.7-3.3,3.7-6.8s-2.8-5.2-2.8-5.2S17.7,1.6,18.8,1z M17.1,25.7c0,3-2.5,4.4-6.8,4.4c-4.3,0-6.6-2.1-6.6-5.4 c0-3.2,3.1-4.8,9-4.8C14.3,21.2,17.1,22.7,17.1,25.7z M10.9,13.2c-5.2,0-7.5-12.1-1.4-12.1C14.2,0.9,17.8,13.2,10.9,13.2z M28.1,4V0.1h-2V4h-4v2h4V10h2V6.1H32V4H28.1z"/></symbol> <symbol id="hamburgerMenu" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M4 5C4 4.44772 4.44772 4 5 4H19C19.5523 4 20 4.44772 20 5C20 5.55228 19.5523 6 19 6H5C4.44772 6 4 5.55228 4 5ZM4 12C4 11.4477 4.44772 11 5 11H19C19.5523 11 20 11.4477 20 12C20 12.5523 19.5523 13 19 13H5C4.44772 13 4 12.5523 4 12ZM5 18C4.44772 18 4 18.4477 4 19C4 19.5523 4.44772 20 5 20H19C19.5523 20 20 19.5523 20 19C20 18.4477 19.5523 18 19 18H5Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="hamburgerMenu-closed" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M4.70711 18.0208C4.31658 18.4113 4.31658 19.0445 4.70711 19.435C5.09763 19.8256 5.7308 19.8256 6.12132 19.435L11.5 14.0563L17.0208 19.5772C17.4113 19.9677 18.0445 19.9677 18.435 19.5772C18.8256 19.1866 18.8256 18.5535 18.435 18.1629L12.9142 12.6421L18.8492 6.7071C19.2398 6.31658 19.2398 5.68342 18.8492 5.29289C18.4587 4.90237 17.8256 4.90237 17.435 5.29289L11.5 11.2279L5.70711 5.43503C5.31658 5.0445 4.68342 5.0445 4.29289 5.43503C3.90237 5.82555 3.90237 6.45872 4.29289 6.84924L10.0858 12.6421L4.70711 18.0208Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="hamburger" viewBox="0 0 40 36"><rect y="0" width="40" height="4"/> <rect y="16" width="40" height="4"/> <rect y="32" width="40" height="4"/></symbol> <symbol id="instagram" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 2.163C15.204 2.163 15.584 2.175 16.85 2.233C20.102 2.381 21.621 3.924 21.769 7.152C21.827 8.417 21.838 8.797 21.838 12.001C21.838 15.206 21.826 15.585 21.769 16.85C21.62 20.075 20.105 21.621 16.85 21.769C15.584 21.827 15.206 21.839 12 21.839C8.796 21.839 8.416 21.827 7.151 21.769C3.891 21.62 2.38 20.07 2.232 16.849C2.174 15.584 2.162 15.205 2.162 12C2.162 8.796 2.175 8.417 2.232 7.151C2.381 3.924 3.896 2.38 7.151 2.232C8.417 2.175 8.796 2.163 12 2.163ZM12 0C8.741 0 8.333 0.014 7.053 0.072C2.695 0.272 0.273 2.69 0.073 7.052C0.014 8.333 0 8.741 0 12C0 15.259 0.014 15.668 0.072 16.948C0.272 21.306 2.69 23.728 7.052 23.928C8.333 23.986 8.741 24 12 24C15.259 24 15.668 23.986 16.948 23.928C21.302 23.728 23.73 21.31 23.927 16.948C23.986 15.668 24 15.259 24 12C24 8.741 23.986 8.333 23.928 7.053C23.732 2.699 21.311 0.273 16.949 0.073C15.668 0.014 15.259 0 12 0ZM12 5.838C8.597 5.838 5.838 8.597 5.838 12C5.838 15.403 8.597 18.163 12 18.163C15.403 18.163 18.162 15.404 18.162 12C18.162 8.597 15.403 5.838 12 5.838ZM12 16C9.791 16 8 14.21 8 12C8 9.791 9.791 8 12 8C14.209 8 16 9.791 16 12C16 14.21 14.209 16 12 16ZM18.406 4.155C17.61 4.155 16.965 4.8 16.965 5.595C16.965 6.39 17.61 7.035 18.406 7.035C19.201 7.035 19.845 6.39 19.845 5.595C19.845 4.8 19.201 4.155 18.406 4.155Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="ios" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M6.54545 0C2.93702 0 0 2.93702 0 6.54545V17.4545C0 21.063 2.93702 24 6.54545 24H17.4545C21.063 24 24 21.063 24 17.4545V6.54545C24 2.93702 21.063 0 17.4545 0H6.54545ZM6.54545 1.09091H17.4545C20.4734 1.09091 22.9091 3.52662 22.9091 6.54545V17.4545C22.9091 20.4734 20.4734 22.9091 17.4545 22.9091H6.54545C3.52662 22.9091 1.09091 20.4734 1.09091 17.4545V6.54545C1.09091 3.52662 3.52662 1.09091 6.54545 1.09091ZM4.69922 8.21804C4.31576 8.21804 4.03338 8.4914 4.03338 8.85085C4.03338 9.2054 4.31576 9.47834 4.69922 9.47834C5.08267 9.47834 5.36612 9.2054 5.36612 8.85085C5.36612 8.4914 5.08267 8.21804 4.69922 8.21804ZM10.3839 8.52912C8.39897 8.52912 7.1527 9.91923 7.1527 12.1534C7.1527 14.3827 8.37497 15.782 10.3839 15.782C12.3879 15.782 13.6055 14.3778 13.6055 12.1534C13.6055 9.92414 12.3781 8.52966 10.3839 8.52912ZM17.4364 8.52912C15.9266 8.52912 14.919 9.34878 14.919 10.581C14.919 11.5971 15.4895 12.202 16.7408 12.4943L17.6325 12.7106C18.5483 12.926 18.9513 13.2421 18.9513 13.7695C18.9513 14.3832 18.3185 14.8285 17.4556 14.8285C16.531 14.8285 15.8885 14.4118 15.7969 13.7557H14.7315C14.8084 14.9928 15.8387 15.783 17.3725 15.783C19.0122 15.783 20.038 14.9543 20.038 13.631C20.038 12.5909 19.4534 12.0152 18.0341 11.6847L17.2724 11.4972C16.3713 11.2861 16.0067 11.0032 16.0067 10.5096C16.0067 9.88613 16.5728 9.4794 17.4215 9.4794C18.2272 9.4794 18.7823 9.87621 18.8832 10.5139H19.9283C19.8661 9.34876 18.841 8.52912 17.4364 8.52912ZM10.3839 9.53054C11.6979 9.53054 12.5082 10.5476 12.5082 12.1534C12.5082 13.7494 11.6973 14.7805 10.3839 14.7805C9.05624 14.7805 8.25107 13.75 8.25107 12.1534C8.25107 10.5476 9.0797 9.53109 10.3839 9.53054ZM4.18679 10.3945V15.6147H5.21271V10.3945H4.18679Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="linkedin" viewBox="0 0 17 16"><path d="M3.927 1.667c0 .92-.74 1.666-1.653 1.666A1.66 1.66 0 0 1 .621 1.667C.62.747 1.36 0 2.274 0a1.66 1.66 0 0 1 1.653 1.667zm.014 3H.607v10.666h3.334V4.667zm5.321 0H5.95v10.666h3.313V9.734c0-3.113 4.02-3.368 4.02 0v5.6h3.324V8.578c0-5.253-5.948-5.062-7.345-2.476V4.667z"/></symbol> <symbol id="mac" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M16.5474 0C16.7021 1.40677 16.1353 2.81875 15.2989 3.83253C14.4624 4.84457 13.0852 5.63577 11.7393 5.52969C11.5585 4.15075 12.2349 2.71616 13.0122 1.81715C13.8799 0.801632 15.3388 0.0486891 16.5474 0ZM20.8926 8.19374C20.6335 8.35506 18.2908 9.81311 18.3211 12.7514C18.353 16.2565 21.2889 17.5009 21.5266 17.6016C21.5351 17.6052 21.5402 17.6074 21.5415 17.6081C21.5394 17.6138 21.5352 17.6272 21.5287 17.6476C21.442 17.9194 20.9545 19.4479 19.8774 21.0216C18.8775 22.4822 17.8429 23.9377 16.2066 23.969C15.4219 23.9834 14.8972 23.7561 14.3516 23.5196C13.7801 23.272 13.1857 23.0143 12.2454 23.0143C11.2601 23.0143 10.6382 23.2796 10.039 23.5352C9.52038 23.7564 9.01887 23.9703 8.31372 23.9986C6.73654 24.0559 5.53322 22.4196 4.52466 20.9624C2.46233 17.9802 0.888628 12.541 3.00487 8.86841C4.05516 7.04604 5.93143 5.89142 7.96942 5.86012C8.8476 5.84435 9.6984 6.1822 10.443 6.47787C11.0121 6.70385 11.5191 6.90519 11.9289 6.90519C12.2978 6.90519 12.7919 6.71039 13.3678 6.48339C14.2739 6.12619 15.3822 5.68925 16.5231 5.80621C17.3073 5.83751 19.5018 6.12095 20.912 8.18154C20.9083 8.18402 20.9017 8.18808 20.8926 8.19374Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="mag" viewBox="0 0 18 18"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M8.73242 1.23218C4.86643 1.23218 1.73242 4.36618 1.73242 8.23218C1.73242 12.0982 4.86643 15.2322 8.73242 15.2322C12.5984 15.2322 15.7324 12.0982 15.7324 8.23218C15.7324 4.36618 12.5984 1.23218 8.73242 1.23218ZM0.732422 8.23218C0.732422 3.8139 4.31414 0.232178 8.73242 0.232178C13.1507 0.232178 16.7324 3.8139 16.7324 8.23218C16.7324 12.6505 13.1507 16.2322 8.73242 16.2322C4.31414 16.2322 0.732422 12.6505 0.732422 8.23218Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M14.0356 13.5356C14.2309 13.3403 14.5475 13.3403 14.7427 13.5356L17.5711 16.364C17.7664 16.5592 17.7664 16.8758 17.5711 17.0711C17.3759 17.2664 17.0593 17.2664 16.864 17.0711L14.0356 14.2427C13.8403 14.0474 13.8403 13.7308 14.0356 13.5356Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="more" viewBox="0 0 32 7.3"><circle cx="3.7" cy="3.7" r="3.7"/> <circle cx="16" cy="3.7" r="3.7"/> <circle cx="28.3" cy="3.7" r="3.7"/></symbol> <symbol id="pause" viewBox="0 0 26.6 32"><g><polygon points="16,32 26.5,32 26.5,8.8 26.5,0 16,0"/> <rect x="0.1" y="0" width="10.6" height="32"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="phone" viewBox="0 0 17 16"><path d="M15.5813 12.3435L12.3426 10.1836C11.9316 9.91174 11.3806 10.0012 11.0768 10.3892L10.1334 11.6022C10.0122 11.762 9.79177 11.8084 9.61637 11.711L9.43692 11.612C8.84203 11.2878 8.10183 10.8841 6.61048 9.39221C5.11913 7.90033 4.71463 7.15957 4.39037 6.56578L4.29197 6.38632C4.1932 6.21096 4.23869 5.98963 4.39862 5.86742L5.61078 4.92431C5.99862 4.62043 6.08821 4.06966 5.81664 3.65853L3.6568 0.419844C3.37848 0.00118926 2.82008 -0.124489 2.38921 0.134523L1.03491 0.948054C0.60938 1.19822 0.297186 1.60338 0.16379 2.07862C-0.323891 3.85555 0.0429864 6.92225 4.56051 11.4403C8.15411 15.0336 10.8294 16 12.6682 16C13.0914 16.0018 13.5129 15.9467 13.9214 15.8362C14.3968 15.703 14.802 15.3908 15.052 14.9651L15.8663 13.6116C16.1257 13.1807 16.0001 12.6219 15.5813 12.3435ZM15.4069 13.338L14.5944 14.6923C14.4149 14.9996 14.1234 15.2255 13.7811 15.3227C12.1407 15.7731 9.27481 15.4 4.9378 11.063C0.600788 6.72601 0.227785 3.86036 0.678156 2.21971C0.775524 1.87698 1.00169 1.58516 1.3093 1.40536L2.6636 0.592894C2.85055 0.480402 3.09291 0.534929 3.21368 0.716603L4.38693 2.47806L5.37167 3.95501C5.4896 4.13334 5.45085 4.37235 5.28261 4.50431L4.07018 5.44743C3.7012 5.72956 3.59584 6.24005 3.82301 6.64521L3.91928 6.82013C4.26007 7.44515 4.68375 8.22268 6.23057 9.76925C7.77739 11.3158 8.55467 11.7395 9.17941 12.0803L9.35458 12.1768C9.75971 12.4039 10.2702 12.2986 10.5524 11.9296L11.4955 10.7172C11.6275 10.549 11.8664 10.5103 12.0448 10.6281L15.2832 12.788C15.465 12.9086 15.5195 13.1511 15.4069 13.338Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="pinterest" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><path d="M0 0h24v24H0z"/><path d="M11.959 2C6.459 2 2 6.459 2 11.959a9.962 9.962 0 006.328 9.279c-.09-.787-.164-2 .033-2.861.18-.779 1.164-4.95 1.164-4.95s-.295-.6-.295-1.476c0-1.385.803-2.418 1.803-2.418.852 0 1.262.64 1.262 1.401 0 .853-.54 2.132-.828 3.32-.238.992.5 1.803 1.476 1.803 1.77 0 3.13-1.868 3.13-4.557 0-2.385-1.712-4.05-4.163-4.05-2.836 0-4.5 2.124-4.5 4.32 0 .853.328 1.771.738 2.271.082.098.09.188.065.287-.074.311-.246.992-.279 1.131-.04.18-.147.221-.336.131-1.246-.582-2.024-2.393-2.024-3.86 0-3.14 2.278-6.025 6.582-6.025 3.45 0 6.14 2.459 6.14 5.754 0 3.434-2.165 6.197-5.165 6.197-1.008 0-1.959-.525-2.279-1.148l-.623 2.369c-.22.869-.827 1.95-1.237 2.615.934.287 1.918.442 2.95.442 5.5 0 9.96-4.459 9.96-9.959A9.939 9.939 0 0011.959 2z" fill="#000" fill-rule="nonzero"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="play" viewBox="0 0 27 36"><path d="M25.7687 17.1706C26.3571 17.567 26.3571 18.433 25.7687 18.8294L1.55866 35.1367C0.894432 35.5841 -1.66576e-06 35.1081 -1.63075e-06 34.3073L-2.05126e-07 1.69274C-1.7012e-07 0.891883 0.894433 0.415934 1.55866 0.863341L25.7687 17.1706Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="reddit" viewBox="0 0 32 26.7"><path d="M22.9,14.5C23,14.7,23,15,23,15.2c0,0.4-0.2,0.9-0.4,1.2c-0.3,0.3-0.6,0.6-1,0.7h0c0,0,0,0,0,0c0,0,0,0,0,0 c-0.2,0.1-0.4,0.1-0.6,0.1c-0.5,0-0.9-0.2-1.3-0.5c-0.4-0.3-0.6-0.7-0.7-1.2c0,0,0,0,0,0c0,0,0,0,0,0h0c0-0.1,0-0.2,0-0.4 c0-0.4,0.1-0.8,0.4-1.2c0.2-0.3,0.6-0.6,1-0.7c0,0,0,0,0,0c0,0,0,0,0,0c0.2-0.1,0.5-0.1,0.7-0.1c0.4,0,0.8,0.1,1.2,0.4 C22.5,13.8,22.7,14.1,22.9,14.5C22.9,14.5,22.9,14.5,22.9,14.5C22.9,14.5,22.9,14.5,22.9,14.5L22.9,14.5z M21.6,19.7 c-0.2-0.1-0.4-0.2-0.6-0.2c-0.2,0-0.3,0-0.5,0.1c-1.4,0.8-3.1,1.3-4.7,1.3c-1.2,0-2.5-0.3-3.6-0.8l0,0l0,0 c-0.2-0.1-0.4-0.2-0.6-0.4c-0.1-0.1-0.2-0.1-0.3-0.2c-0.1-0.1-0.3-0.1-0.4-0.1c-0.1,0-0.2,0-0.4,0.1c0,0,0,0,0,0 c-0.2,0.1-0.3,0.2-0.4,0.4c-0.1,0.2-0.2,0.4-0.2,0.6c0,0.2,0,0.3,0.1,0.5c0.1,0.1,0.2,0.3,0.4,0.4c1.6,1.1,3.5,1.6,5.4,1.6 c1.7,0,3.4-0.4,4.9-1.1l0,0l0,0c0.2-0.1,0.5-0.2,0.7-0.4c0.1-0.1,0.2-0.2,0.4-0.3c0.1-0.1,0.2-0.3,0.2-0.4c0-0.1,0-0.2,0-0.2 c0-0.1,0-0.3-0.1-0.4C21.9,19.9,21.8,19.8,21.6,19.7L21.6,19.7z M10.4,17.1C10.4,17.1,10.4,17.1,10.4,17.1 c0.2,0.1,0.4,0.1,0.6,0.1c0.5,0,1-0.2,1.4-0.6c0.4-0.3,0.6-0.8,0.6-1.4c0,0,0,0,0,0c0,0,0-0.1,0-0.1c0-0.6-0.3-1-0.6-1.4 c-0.4-0.3-0.9-0.6-1.4-0.6c-0.1,0-0.3,0-0.4,0c0,0,0,0,0,0h0c-0.7,0.1-1.3,0.7-1.5,1.4c0,0,0,0,0,0C9,14.8,9,15,9,15.2 c0,0.4,0.1,0.9,0.4,1.2C9.6,16.7,10,17,10.4,17.1C10.4,17.1,10.4,17.1,10.4,17.1L10.4,17.1z M32,12.1L32,12.1c0,0.1,0,0.1,0,0.2 c0,0.8-0.2,1.5-0.7,2.2c-0.4,0.6-0.9,1.1-1.5,1.4c0,0.3,0.1,0.6,0.1,0.9c0,1.7-0.6,3.3-1.6,4.6v0h0c-1.9,2.5-4.7,3.9-7.6,4.7l0,0 c-1.5,0.4-3.1,0.6-4.7,0.6c-2.4,0-4.7-0.4-6.9-1.3v0h0c-2.3-0.9-4.5-2.4-5.8-4.6c-0.7-1.2-1.1-2.5-1.1-3.9c0-0.3,0-0.6,0.1-0.9 c-0.6-0.3-1.1-0.8-1.5-1.4C0.3,13.9,0,13.2,0,12.4v0c0-1.1,0.5-2.1,1.2-2.8c0.7-0.7,1.7-1.2,2.8-1.2h0c0.1,0,0.2,0,0.3,0 c0.5,0,1.1,0.1,1.6,0.3l0,0h0C6.3,8.8,6.8,9,7.1,9.3c0.1-0.1,0.3-0.1,0.4-0.2c2.3-1.4,5-1.9,7.6-2c0-1.3,0.2-2.7,0.8-3.8 c0.5-1,1.4-1.8,2.5-2l0,0h0c0.4-0.1,0.8-0.1,1.2-0.1c1.1,0,2.2,0.3,3.2,0.7c0.5-0.7,1.1-1.2,1.9-1.5l0,0l0,0 C25.3,0.1,25.8,0,26.2,0c0.5,0,1,0.1,1.5,0.3v0c0,0,0,0,0,0c0,0,0,0,0,0C28.4,0.6,29,1,29.4,1.6C29.8,2.2,30,3,30,3.7 c0,0.1,0,0.3,0,0.4l0,0c0,0,0,0,0,0c-0.1,1-0.6,1.8-1.2,2.4c-0.7,0.6-1.6,1-2.5,1c-0.1,0-0.3,0-0.4,0c-0.9-0.1-1.8-0.5-2.4-1.2 c-0.6-0.7-1-1.5-1-2.5c0,0,0-0.1,0-0.1C21.6,3.3,20.7,3,19.8,3c-0.1,0-0.3,0-0.4,0h0c-0.7,0.1-1.3,0.5-1.6,1.1v0 c-0.5,0.9-0.6,1.9-0.6,3c2.6,0.2,5.2,0.8,7.4,2.1h0l0,0c0,0,0.1,0.1,0.2,0.1C25,9.2,25.2,9,25.4,8.9c0.7-0.5,1.5-0.7,2.3-0.7 c0.4,0,0.7,0,1.1,0.1h0l0,0c0,0,0,0,0,0c0.8,0.2,1.6,0.7,2.2,1.3C31.5,10.4,31.9,11.2,32,12.1L32,12.1L32,12.1z M24.4,3.6 c0,0,0,0.1,0,0.1v0c0,0.4,0.2,0.9,0.6,1.2c0.3,0.3,0.8,0.5,1.2,0.5h0c0,0,0.1,0,0.1,0c0.4,0,0.9-0.2,1.2-0.5 C27.8,4.6,28,4.2,28,3.8v0c0,0,0-0.1,0-0.1c0-0.5-0.2-0.9-0.6-1.2c-0.3-0.3-0.8-0.5-1.2-0.5c-0.1,0-0.3,0-0.4,0.1h0l0,0 c-0.4,0.1-0.7,0.3-1,0.6C24.6,2.9,24.4,3.2,24.4,3.6L24.4,3.6z M5.4,10.5c-0.3-0.2-0.7-0.3-1.1-0.3c-0.1,0-0.1,0-0.2,0h0l0,0 c-0.5,0-1,0.2-1.4,0.6c-0.4,0.4-0.6,0.8-0.7,1.4v0l0,0c0,0,0,0.1,0,0.1c0,0.3,0.1,0.6,0.3,0.9c0.1,0.2,0.3,0.4,0.5,0.6 C3.4,12.6,4.3,11.5,5.4,10.5L5.4,10.5z M27.8,16.9c0-1.2-0.4-2.3-1.1-3.2c-1.3-1.9-3.4-3.1-5.6-3.8l0,0c-0.4-0.1-0.8-0.2-1.3-0.3 c-1.3-0.3-2.6-0.4-3.9-0.4c-1.7,0-3.5,0.3-5.2,0.8c-2.2,0.7-4.3,1.9-5.6,3.8v0c-0.7,0.9-1.1,2.1-1.1,3.3c0,0.4,0.1,0.9,0.2,1.3 l0,0c0.2,0.9,0.7,1.8,1.3,2.5c0.6,0.7,1.4,1.3,2.2,1.8c0.2,0.1,0.4,0.2,0.5,0.3c2.3,1.3,5,1.9,7.6,1.9c0.4,0,0.9,0,1.3,0 c2.7-0.2,5.3-1,7.5-2.6v0c0.7-0.5,1.3-1.1,1.8-1.8c0.5-0.7,0.9-1.5,1-2.3v0C27.8,17.5,27.8,17.2,27.8,16.9L27.8,16.9z M29.9,12.3 c0-0.3-0.1-0.6-0.2-0.8l0,0l0,0c-0.2-0.4-0.5-0.7-0.8-0.9c-0.4-0.2-0.8-0.3-1.2-0.3c-0.4,0-0.7,0.1-1.1,0.3c1.1,0.9,2,2,2.6,3.3 c0.2-0.2,0.4-0.4,0.5-0.6C29.8,13,29.9,12.6,29.9,12.3L29.9,12.3z M29.9,12.3"/></symbol> <symbol id="rss" viewBox="0 0 36 36"><path d="M0 14.4v7.2c8 0 14.4 6.4 14.4 14.4h7.2c0-11.9-9.7-21.6-21.6-21.6z"/> <path d="M0 0v7.2c15.9 0 28.8 12.9 28.8 28.8H36C36 16.1 19.9 0 0 0z"/> <circle cx="3.6" cy="32.4" r="3.6"/></symbol> <symbol id="cc-share" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M6 17c2.269-9.881 11-11.667 11-11.667v-3.333l7 6.637-7 6.696v-3.333s-6.17-.171-11 5zm12 .145v2.855h-16v-12h6.598c.768-.787 1.561-1.449 2.339-2h-10.937v16h20v-6.769l-2 1.914z"/></symbol> <symbol id="share" viewBox="0 0 18 12"><path d="M10.5 10.5L18 5.184L10.5 0V2.2815C10.5 2.2815 1.7865 4.21875 0 12C3.804 7.92675 10.5 8.0865 10.5 8.0865V10.5Z" fill="white"/></symbol> <symbol id="sms" viewBox="0 0 72 72"><path d="M38,58 L24,72 L24,58 L9.99237268,58 C4.47373763,58 0,53.5215031 0,48.0046567 L0,15.9953433 C0,10.4750676 4.47671884, 6 9.99237268,6 L62.0076273,6 C67.5262624,6 72,10.4784969 72,15.9953433 L72,48.0046567 C72,53.5249324 67.5232812,58 62.0076273, 58 L38,58 Z M9.9,28.475 C9.9,33.075 13.825,33.575 16.825,33.925 C18.675,34.125 20.2,34.475 20.2,35.725 C20.2,37.15 19,37.7 16.875, 37.7 C15.275,37.7 14.15,37.05 13.65,35.975 C13.325,35.225 13.05,35.1 12.325,35.375 L10.5,36.025 C9.8,36.275 9.6,36.6 9.85,37.325 C10.825, 39.95 12.975,41.375 16.875,41.375 C21.475,41.375 24.3,39.075 24.3,35.65 C24.3,31.25 20.75,30.5 17.825,30.15 C15.8,29.925 14.075,29.65 14.075, 28.3 C14.075,27.1 14.975,26.575 17.025,26.575 C18.6,26.575 19.45,27.175 19.975,28.225 C20.35,28.9 20.625,29.025 21.275,28.725 L23.175, 27.9 C23.875,27.6 24.075,27.25 23.725,26.55 C22.575,24.1 20.675,22.875 17.025,22.875 C12.35,22.875 9.9,25.25 9.9,28.475 Z M43.875,23.25 L42.1, 23.25 C41.325,23.25 41.125,23.375 40.75,24.025 L36.15,32.45 L31.575,24 C31.225,23.4 30.975,23.25 30.15,23.25 L28.525,23.25 C27.775,23.25 27.5, 23.5 27.5,24.25 L27.5,40 C27.5,40.75 27.775,41 28.525,41 L30.3,41 C31.05,41 31.3,40.75 31.3,40 L31.3,34.35 C31.3,32.675 31.15,31.25 30.55,28.7 L30.775, 28.7 C31.275,30.525 31.825,32 32.625,33.35 L34.425,36.525 C34.725,37.1 34.95,37.25 35.575,37.25 L36.725,37.25 C37.35,37.25 37.575,37.05 37.85, 36.525 L39.625,33.35 C40.375,32 41.075,30.4 41.6,28.7 L41.825,28.7 C41.2,31.15 41,32.8 41,34.325 L41,40 C41,40.75 41.25,41 42,41 L43.875,41 C44.65, 41 44.9,40.75 44.9,40 L44.9,24.25 C44.9,23.5 44.65,23.25 43.875,23.25 Z M48.325,28.475 C48.325,33.075 52.25,33.575 55.25,33.925 C57.1,34.125 58.625, 34.475 58.625,35.725 C58.625,37.15 57.425,37.7 55.3,37.7 C53.7,37.7 52.575,37.05 52.075,35.975 C51.75,35.225 51.475,35.1 50.75,35.375 L48.925,36.025 C48.225, 36.275 48.025,36.6 48.275,37.325 C49.25,39.95 51.4,41.375 55.3,41.375 C59.9,41.375 62.725,39.075 62.725,35.65 C62.725,31.25 59.175,30.5 56.25, 30.15 C54.225,29.925 52.5,29.65 52.5,28.3 C52.5,27.1 53.4,26.575 55.45,26.575 C57.025,26.575 57.875,27.175 58.4,28.225 C58.775,28.9 59.05, 29.025 59.7,28.725 L61.6,27.9 C62.3,27.6 62.5,27.25 62.15,26.55 C61,24.1 59.1,22.875 55.45,22.875 C50.775,22.875 48.325,25.25 48.325,28.475 Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="stars-full" viewBox="0 0 14 14"><polygon points="7,0 8.8,5.1 14,5.3 9.9,8.7 11.3,14 7,11 2.7,14 4.1,8.7 0,5.3 5.2,5.1"/></symbol> <symbol id="stars-half" viewBox="0 0 14 14"><polygon points="7.1,0 7.1,11 2.7,14 4.1,8.7 0,5.3 5.2,5.1"/></symbol> <symbol id="stumble" viewBox="0 0 32 24"><path d="M17.8,8.6l2.1,1.5l3.3-1.5l0-1.6C23,3.3,19.9,0,16,0c-3.8,0-7,3.2-7.1,6.9v9.9c0,0.9-0.8,1.6-1.7,1.6 c-0.9,0-1.9-0.4-1.9-1.3V12H0c0,0,0,5.1,0,5.1C0,20.9,3.2,24,7.1,24c3.9,0,7.1-3.1,7.1-6.9V6.9c0-0.9,0.8-1.7,1.8-1.7 c0.9,0,1.8,0.8,1.8,1.7V8.6z M26.7,12v5.1c0,0.9-1,1.5-1.9,1.5c-0.9,0-1.7-0.7-1.7-1.6l0-5l-3.3,1.6L17.8,12v5.1 c0,3.8,3.2,6.9,7.1,6.9c3.9,0,7.1-3.1,7.1-6.9c0,0,0-5.1,0-5.1H26.7z"/></symbol> <symbol id="tumblr" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><path d="M0 0h24v24H0z"/><path d="M13.32 15.984c0 1.547.758 2.082 1.966 2.082H17V22h-3.245c-2.922 0-5.1-1.548-5.1-5.25v-5.929H6v-3.21C8.922 6.83 10.144 4.241 10.285 2h3.034v5.09h3.54v3.731h-3.54v5.163z" fill="#000"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="twitter" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><g fill-rule="evenodd"><path d="M0 0h24v24H0z"/><path d="M8.275 20c7.552 0 11.682-6.157 11.682-11.493 0-.176 0-.352-.009-.52A8.337 8.337 0 0022 5.893a8.44 8.44 0 01-2.358.637 4.05 4.05 0 001.805-2.237 8.398 8.398 0 01-2.606.98A4.117 4.117 0 0015.844 4C13.58 4 11.74 5.81 11.74 8.038c0 .318.034.628.111.921a11.711 11.711 0 01-8.463-4.222 4.002 4.002 0 00-.554 2.027c0 1.4.724 2.64 1.831 3.36a4.084 4.084 0 01-1.856-.503v.05c0 1.96 1.413 3.586 3.295 3.963a4.153 4.153 0 01-1.856.066c.52 1.609 2.035 2.773 3.831 2.807A8.34 8.34 0 012 18.174 11.574 11.574 0 008.275 20z" fill-rule="nonzero"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="tiktok" viewBox="0 0 22 24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M7.32 24c-.533-.078-1.075-.121-1.598-.24-2.964-.676-5.278-3.244-5.648-6.244-.493-4 2.224-7.61 6.232-8.272.796-.131 1.839-.125 2.346.01v3.927c-.2-.038-.387-.083-.577-.11-2.239-.317-4.162 1.398-4.089 3.643.059 1.774 1.49 3.236 3.315 3.385 1.74.143 3.405-1.118 3.724-2.836.051-.3.076-.604.072-.908.007-5.333.01-10.668.012-16.005 0-.117.011-.233.017-.35h3.9c.086 3.323 2.566 5.864 5.87 6.004.203.01.225.09.224.255-.004 1.132 0 2.265 0 3.397v.25c-2.263-.01-4.261-.702-6.086-2.05v.29c.008 2.742.014 5.484.02 8.226 0 .382-.022.765-.068 1.144-.369 3.072-2.802 5.688-5.85 6.292-.444.088-.896.129-1.344.191L7.319 24Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="videoIcon" viewBox="0 0 14 16"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M1.43996 0.135134C0.803637 -0.244871 0 0.221801 0 0.971144V8.00057V15.03C0 15.7793 0.803637 16.2447 1.43996 15.8647L13.2422 8.83525C13.8717 8.46191 13.8717 7.53923 13.2422 7.16456L1.43996 0.135134Z" fill="#666666"/></symbol> <symbol id="website" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path d="M13.6556 2.34442C10.53 -0.781222 5.4705 -0.781722 2.34443 2.34442C-0.781242 5.47005 -0.78171 10.5295 2.34443 13.6556C5.47 16.7812 10.5295 16.7817 13.6556 13.6556C16.7812 10.53 16.7817 5.47052 13.6556 2.34442ZM13.3213 12.5155C12.9476 12.1813 12.5479 11.8856 12.1265 11.6307C12.405 10.6687 12.57 9.61012 12.609 8.5097H14.9605C14.8542 9.99296 14.2843 11.3844 13.3213 12.5155ZM1.03949 8.5097H3.39098C3.42998 9.61012 3.59497 10.6687 3.87346 11.6307C3.45212 11.8856 3.05238 12.1813 2.67869 12.5155C1.71572 11.3844 1.14584 9.99296 1.03949 8.5097ZM2.67872 3.48455C3.05241 3.81871 3.45215 4.11444 3.87349 4.3693C3.595 5.33129 3.43001 6.3899 3.39101 7.49031H1.03949C1.14584 6.00708 1.71572 4.61569 2.67872 3.48455ZM7.49032 4.47465C6.65906 4.4152 5.85756 4.21046 5.11451 3.8727C5.54666 2.75989 6.34332 1.4252 7.49032 1.09444V4.47465ZM7.49032 5.49594V7.49034H4.4108C4.44609 6.55948 4.57798 5.66561 4.79733 4.84775C5.64174 5.21689 6.54987 5.43733 7.49032 5.49594ZM7.49032 8.5097V10.5041C6.54987 10.5627 5.64174 10.7832 4.79733 11.1523C4.57798 10.3344 4.44609 9.44057 4.4108 8.5097H7.49032ZM7.49032 11.5254V14.9056C6.34338 14.5748 5.54672 13.2403 5.11451 12.1273C5.85756 11.7896 6.65906 11.5848 7.49032 11.5254ZM8.50968 11.5254C9.34094 11.5848 10.1424 11.7896 10.8855 12.1273C10.4533 13.2402 9.65668 14.5748 8.50968 14.9056V11.5254ZM8.50968 10.5041V8.5097H11.5892C11.5539 9.44057 11.422 10.3344 11.2027 11.1523C10.3583 10.7832 9.45013 10.5627 8.50968 10.5041ZM8.50968 7.49034V5.49594C9.45013 5.43733 10.3583 5.21689 11.2027 4.84775C11.422 5.66561 11.5539 6.55948 11.5892 7.49034H8.50968ZM8.50968 4.47465V1.09447C9.65668 1.42523 10.4533 2.75992 10.8855 3.87273C10.1424 4.21046 9.34094 4.4152 8.50968 4.47465ZM10.7991 1.60333C11.4515 1.88904 12.0602 2.27644 12.6058 2.75711C12.3461 2.98611 12.0721 3.19375 11.7859 3.37945C11.5317 2.75021 11.2071 2.13871 10.7991 1.60333ZM4.21409 3.37945C3.92792 3.19375 3.65389 2.98611 3.39413 2.75711C3.93978 2.27644 4.54847 1.88904 5.20091 1.60333C4.79287 2.13877 4.46823 2.75027 4.21409 3.37945ZM4.21412 12.6206C4.46823 13.2498 4.79293 13.8613 5.20094 14.3967C4.5485 14.111 3.93981 13.7236 3.39417 13.2429C3.65389 13.0139 3.92795 12.8063 4.21412 12.6206ZM11.7859 12.6206C12.0721 12.8063 12.3461 13.0139 12.6058 13.2429C12.0602 13.7236 11.4515 14.111 10.7991 14.3967C11.2071 13.8614 11.5317 13.2498 11.7859 12.6206ZM12.609 7.49034C12.57 6.38993 12.405 5.33129 12.1265 4.36933C12.5479 4.11447 12.9476 3.81874 13.3213 3.48458C14.2843 4.61569 14.8542 6.00708 14.9605 7.49034H12.609Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="windows" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 11.5V2.5L24 1V11.5H12ZM0 11.5V4L10.5 2.6875V11.5H0ZM12 13V22L24 23.5V13H12ZM0 20.5V13H10.5V21.8125L0 20.5Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="yahoo" viewBox="-133 141 30.3 20"><path d="M-107.7,146.7c0,0,1.2-0.7,2.1-0.7s2.1,0,2.1,0l0.8-1.9h-12.9l0.1,1.4l0.8,0.4l3.3,0.1c0,0,0.2,0.7-0.3,1.1 c-0.6,0.4-5.4,4.7-5.4,4.7l-6.2-7.5c0,0,0.1-0.2,1-0.2c0.9,0,3.5,0,3.5,0V141H-133v3.1c0,0,1.8,0,2.7,0c0.9,0,1.9,1,2.8,1.8 c0.9,0.9,7.1,7.4,7.1,7.4v5.4c0,0-0.5,0.8-2.2,0.8c-1.8,0-2.5,0.1-2.5,0.1v1.4h14.1v-1c0,0-0.4-0.6-0.8-0.6h-3.4 c-0.4,0-0.5-0.5-0.5-1.1c0-0.6,0-4.7,0-4.7L-107.7,146.7z"/></symbol> <symbol id="youtube" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M19.615 3.184c-3.604-.246-11.631-.245-15.23 0-3.897.266-4.356 2.62-4.385 8.816.029 6.185.484 8.549 4.385 8.816 3.6.245 11.626.246 15.23 0 3.897-.266 4.356-2.62 4.385-8.816-.029-6.185-.484-8.549-4.385-8.816zm-10.615 12.816v-8l8 3.993-8 4.007z"/></symbol> <symbol id="rightArrow" viewBox="0 0 16 14"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M8.646.646a.5.5 0 0 1 .708 0l6 6a.5.5 0 0 1 0 .708l-6 6a.5.5 0 0 1-.708-.708L14.293 7 8.646 1.354a.5.5 0 0 1 0-.708z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M.5 7a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h14a.5.5 0 0 1 0 1H1A.5.5 0 0 1 .5 7z"/></symbol> <symbol id="rightArrowAlt" viewBox="0 0 41 13"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M33.6464 0.146447C33.8417 -0.0488155 34.1583 -0.0488155 34.3536 0.146447L40.3536 6.14645C40.5488 6.34171 40.5488 6.65829 40.3536 6.85355L34.3536 12.8536C34.1583 13.0488 33.8417 13.0488 33.6464 12.8536C33.4512 12.6583 33.4512 12.3417 33.6464 12.1464L39.2929 6.5L33.6464 0.853553C33.4512 0.658291 33.4512 0.341709 33.6464 0.146447Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0.5 6.5C0.5 6.22386 0.723858 6 1 6H40C40.2761 6 40.5 6.22386 40.5 6.5C40.5 6.77614 40.2761 7 40 7H1C0.723858 7 0.5 6.77614 0.5 6.5Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="leftArrow" viewBox="63 -9 150 150"><path d="M10.3342 1.79974L1.68336 10.4506L10.3342 19.1014" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round"/></symbol> <symbol id="search" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M6.71687 11.5313C4.11032 11.5313 2.10529 9.42603 2.10529 6.81948C2.10529 4.21294 4.21058 2.10765 6.71687 2.10765C9.32342 2.10765 11.3285 4.21294 11.3285 6.81948C11.3285 9.42603 9.32342 11.5313 6.71687 11.5313ZM15.94 14.38L12.4312 10.8362C13.133 9.72245 13.534 8.40619 13.534 6.98868C13.534 3.14116 10.5264 0.00238281 6.81712 0.00238281C3.00756 -0.0988679 0 3.03991 0 6.88743C0 10.735 3.00756 13.8737 6.71687 13.8737C8.3209 13.8737 9.72443 13.3675 10.8272 12.355L14.336 15.8987C14.4363 16 14.5365 16 14.6368 16C14.737 16 14.9375 15.8987 14.9375 15.7975L15.7395 14.8862C16.0403 14.8862 16.0403 14.5825 15.94 14.38Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="menu" viewBox="0 0 25 24"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M23.7368 1H15.7368V9H23.7368V1ZM15.7368 0C15.1845 0 14.7368 0.447716 14.7368 1V9C14.7368 9.55229 15.1845 10 15.7368 10H23.7368C24.2891 10 24.7368 9.55228 24.7368 9V1C24.7368 0.447715 24.2891 0 23.7368 0H15.7368Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M9.73682 1H1.73682V9H9.73682V1ZM1.73682 0C1.18453 0 0.736816 0.447716 0.736816 1V9C0.736816 9.55229 1.18453 10 1.73682 10H9.73682C10.2891 10 10.7368 9.55228 10.7368 9V1C10.7368 0.447715 10.2891 0 9.73682 0H1.73682Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M23.7368 15H15.7368V23H23.7368V15ZM15.7368 14C15.1845 14 14.7368 14.4477 14.7368 15V23C14.7368 23.5523 15.1845 24 15.7368 24H23.7368C24.2891 24 24.7368 23.5523 24.7368 23V15C24.7368 14.4477 24.2891 14 23.7368 14H15.7368Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M9.73682 15H1.73682V23H9.73682V15ZM1.73682 14C1.18453 14 0.736816 14.4477 0.736816 15V23C0.736816 23.5523 1.18453 24 1.73682 24H9.73682C10.2891 24 10.7368 23.5523 10.7368 23V15C10.7368 14.4477 10.2891 14 9.73682 14H1.73682Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="caretdown" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0 0.333332L3.36718 3.66667L6.66667 0.400342L0 0.333332Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="check" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon fill-rule="evenodd" points="9.317 16.622 3.547 10.471 2.453 11.498 9.283 18.778 21.53 6.53 20.47 5.47"/></symbol> <symbol id="location" viewBox="0 0 10 12"><path d="M4.95666 6.00004C5.64822 6.00004 6.20884 5.43942 6.20884 4.74785C6.20884 4.05629 5.64822 3.49567 4.95666 3.49567C4.26509 3.49567 3.70447 4.05629 3.70447 4.74785C3.70447 5.43942 4.26509 6.00004 4.95666 6.00004Z" fill="#262626"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M4.95658 1.56523C3.10008 1.56523 1.56523 3.10939 1.56523 5.05144C1.56523 6.40352 2.43269 7.75624 3.44374 8.84771C3.9343 9.3773 4.42739 9.81182 4.7986 10.1141C4.85429 10.1595 4.90709 10.2017 4.95657 10.2408C5.00606 10.2017 5.05887 10.1595 5.11455 10.1141C5.48576 9.81182 5.97885 9.3773 6.46941 8.84771C7.48046 7.75624 8.34792 6.40352 8.34792 5.05144C8.34792 3.10939 6.81308 1.56523 4.95658 1.56523ZM4.95658 11.2175C4.5157 11.8641 4.51551 11.864 4.51531 11.8639L4.51356 11.8627L4.5099 11.8602L4.49811 11.852L4.45734 11.8234C4.42276 11.7989 4.37371 11.7637 4.31225 11.7183C4.1894 11.6275 4.0165 11.4958 3.81019 11.3278C3.39878 10.9928 2.84838 10.5083 2.29545 9.91139C1.21953 8.74987 0 7.01955 0 5.05144C0 2.27828 2.20265 0 4.95658 0C7.71051 0 9.91315 2.27828 9.91315 5.05144C9.91315 7.01955 8.69363 8.74987 7.6177 9.91139C7.06477 10.5083 6.51437 10.9928 6.10296 11.3278C5.89666 11.4958 5.72376 11.6275 5.60091 11.7183C5.53944 11.7637 5.49039 11.7989 5.45582 11.8234L5.41504 11.852L5.40325 11.8602L5.39959 11.8627L5.39833 11.8635C5.39813 11.8637 5.39745 11.8641 4.95658 11.2175ZM4.95658 11.2175L5.39745 11.8641C5.1315 12.0455 4.78126 12.0452 4.51531 11.8639L4.95658 11.2175Z" fill="#262626"/></symbol> <symbol id="cardLoader" viewBox="0 0 64 64"><rect width="64" height="4"/><rect y="48" width="32" height="4"/><rect y="56" width="32" height="4"/><rect y="8" width="64" height="36"/> <clipPath id="cardClip" clipPathUnits="objectBoundingBox" transform="scale(0.015625 0.015625)"><rect width="64" height="4"/><rect y="48" width="32" height="4"/><rect y="56" width="32" height="4"/><rect y="8" width="64" height="36"/></clipPath></symbol> <symbol id="cardLoaderOneRow" viewBox="0 0 64 30"><rect width="64" height="4"/><rect y="6" width="64" height="4"/><rect y="12" width="64" height="4"/><rect y="20" width="32" height="2"/><rect y="24" width="32" height="2"/> <clipPath id="cardClipRow" clipPathUnits="objectBoundingBox" transform="scale(0.015625 0.03333333333)"><rect width="64" height="4"/><rect y="6" width="64" height="4"/><rect y="12" width="64" height="4"/><rect y="20" width="32" height="2"/><rect y="24" width="32" height="2"/></clipPath></symbol> <symbol id="media-gallery-icon" viewBox="0 0 36 22"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><path d="M0 29h36V-7H0z"/> <g fill="#000"><path d="M34 3H5c-1.104 0-2 .896-2 2v15c0 1.104.896 2 2 2h29c1.104 0 2-.896 2-2V5c0-1.104-.896-2-2-2m0 1c.551 0 1 .449 1 1v15c0 .551-.449 1-1 1H5c-.551 0-1-.449-1-1V5c0-.551.449-1 1-1h29"/> <path d="M.5 20c-.276 0-.5-.224-.5-.5v-17C0 1.122 1.122 0 2.5 0h31c.276 0 .5.224.5.5s-.224.5-.5.5h-31C1.673 1 1 1.673 1 2.5v17c0 .276-.224.5-.5.5"/> <path d="M32.5 19c-.128 0-.256-.049-.354-.146l-7.585-7.586c-.567-.567-1.555-.567-2.122 0l-4.171 4.171c-.975.975-2.561.975-3.536 0l-1.171-1.171c-.567-.567-1.555-.567-2.122 0l-4.585 4.586c-.196.195-.512.195-.708 0-.195-.196-.195-.512 0-.708l4.586-4.585c.945-.945 2.591-.945 3.536 0l1.171 1.171c.567.567 1.555.567 2.122 0l4.171-4.171c.945-.945 2.591-.945 3.536 0l7.586 7.585c.195.196.195.512 0 .708-.098.097-.226.146-.354.146M10 7c-1.104 0-2 .896-2 2s.896 2 2 2 2-.896 2-2-.896-2-2-2m0 1c.551 0 1 .449 1 1 0 .551-.449 1-1 1-.551 0-1-.449-1-1 0-.551.449-1 1-1"/></g></g></symbol> <symbol id="thumb" viewBox="0 0 15 18"><path d="M10.0725 6.6105C10.6785 4.14825 11.0115 0 8.42475 0C7.029 0 6.66225 1.251 6.3 2.49675C4.82175 7.58775 2.3145 8.00325 0 8.304V15.75C2.62725 15.75 4.188 16.2967 6.12675 17.1315C7.0695 17.5372 8.4165 18 10.1288 18C12.0323 18 13.35 17.2522 13.8855 15.2355C14.2605 13.8277 15 9.798 15 9.048C15 7.81125 14.124 7.2135 13.0545 7.16775C12.147 7.1295 10.902 6.96 10.0725 6.6105V6.6105ZM12.861 9.85125L11.8155 9.9765C11.8155 9.9765 11.3588 10.8082 11.9213 10.8127C11.9213 10.8127 12.072 10.8203 12.723 10.7925C13.5345 10.758 13.5113 11.8943 12.726 11.9648L11.4053 12.039C10.8548 12.1095 10.9133 12.9413 11.511 12.918C11.511 12.918 12.0255 12.9053 12.3683 12.8873C13.1693 12.8453 13.1303 13.959 12.3983 14.0505C12.0803 14.0902 11.0895 14.1368 11.0895 14.1368C10.4813 14.1908 10.56 15.063 11.1713 14.9925L11.7495 14.9692C12.366 14.9137 12.5018 15.588 11.5305 16.215C10.3553 16.8758 8.01675 16.3133 6.7185 15.7545C5.04 15.0308 3.39075 14.304 1.5 14.25V9.75C3.94725 9.18825 6.24675 8.0595 7.74075 2.91525C8.41425 0.59625 9 1.467 9 3.34575C9 4.899 8.6325 6.18525 8.30925 7.4955C9.105 7.90275 10.8375 8.547 12.8993 8.6625C13.6905 8.70675 13.668 9.75375 12.861 9.85125V9.85125Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="expand" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path d="M4.79245 0H0.603774C0.269811 0 0 0.269811 0 0.603774V4.83019C0 4.99623 0.135849 5.13208 0.301887 5.13208H1.20755C1.37358 5.13208 1.50943 4.99623 1.50943 4.83019V1.50943H4.79245C4.95849 1.50943 5.09434 1.37358 5.09434 1.20755V0.301887C5.09434 0.135849 4.95849 0 4.79245 0ZM15.6981 10.8679H14.7925C14.6264 10.8679 14.4906 11.0038 14.4906 11.1698V14.4906H11.2075C11.0415 14.4906 10.9057 14.6264 10.9057 14.7925V15.6981C10.9057 15.8642 11.0415 16 11.2075 16H15.3962C15.7302 16 16 15.7302 16 15.3962V11.1698C16 11.0038 15.8642 10.8679 15.6981 10.8679ZM4.79245 14.4906H1.50943V11.1698C1.50943 11.0038 1.37358 10.8679 1.20755 10.8679H0.301887C0.135849 10.8679 0 11.0038 0 11.1698V15.3962C0 15.7302 0.269811 16 0.603774 16H4.79245C4.95849 16 5.09434 15.8642 5.09434 15.6981V14.7925C5.09434 14.6264 4.95849 14.4906 4.79245 14.4906ZM15.3962 0H11.2075C11.0415 0 10.9057 0.135849 10.9057 0.301887V1.20755C10.9057 1.37358 11.0415 1.50943 11.2075 1.50943H14.4906V4.83019C14.4906 4.99623 14.6264 5.13208 14.7925 5.13208H15.6981C15.8642 5.13208 16 4.99623 16 4.83019V0.603774C16 0.269811 15.7302 0 15.3962 0Z"/></symbol></svg> <svg class="c-globalSvgs c-siteSvgs" data-v-60affc28=""><symbol id="logo" viewBox="0 0 1042 682"><g><path d="M359.25 358V430V483.54V555.54V610V682H431.25H683.25V610H431.25V555.54H629.17V483.54H431.25V430H683.25V358H431.25H359.25Z"/> <path d="M916 358H844H718V430H844V682H916V430H1042V358H916Z"/> <path d="M324 252H11.87L324 143.91V72V67.72V0H0V72H311.64L0 179.91V252V256.11V324H324V252Z"/> <path d="M252.5 670.13L144.41 358H72.5H68.22H0.5V682H72.5V370.36L180.41 682H252.5H256.61H324.5V358H252.5V670.13Z"/> <path d="M682.75 162.2V161.83C682.75 72.6 610.16 -1.52588e-05 520.92 -1.52588e-05H358.75V324H520.96C610.17 324 682.75 251.42 682.75 162.2ZM430.75 72H520.92C544.736 72.0265 567.57 81.4991 584.41 98.3398C601.251 115.18 610.724 138.014 610.75 161.83V162.2C610.726 186.007 601.259 208.833 584.425 225.668C567.592 242.504 544.767 251.974 520.96 252H430.75V72Z"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="logo-horizontal" viewBox="0 0 1759 324" preserveAspectRatio="xMinYMid slice"><g><path d="M1076.25 0V72V125.54V197.54V252V324H1148.25H1400.25V252H1148.25V197.54H1346.17V125.54H1148.25V72H1400.25V0H1148.25H1076.25Z"/> <path d="M1633 0H1561H1435V72H1561V324H1633V72H1759V0H1633Z"/> <path d="M0 72H311.64L0 179.91V252V256.11V324H324V252H11.87L324 143.91V72V67.72V0H0V72Z"/> <path d="M969.5 312.13L861.41 0H789.5H785.22H717.5V324H789.5V12.36L897.41 324H969.5H973.61H1041.5V0H969.5V312.13Z"/> <path d="M520.92 0H358.75V324H520.96C610.17 324 682.75 251.42 682.75 162.2V161.83C682.75 72.6 610.17 0 520.92 0ZM610.75 162.2C610.726 186.007 601.259 208.833 584.425 225.668C567.592 242.504 544.767 251.974 520.96 252H430.75V72H520.92C544.736 72.0265 567.57 81.4992 584.41 98.3398C601.251 115.181 610.724 138.014 610.75 161.83V162.2Z"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="logo-innovation-index" viewBox="0 0 306 53"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M201.884 8.45246L210.24 0H214.484L222.771 8.45246V21.6142H218.959V15.5465H205.696V21.6142H201.884V8.45246ZM205.696 12.1675H218.959V9.71375L212.33 3.18119L205.696 9.6816V12.1675Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M174.708 16.4443L169.373 21.7799H155.217L149.881 16.4443V5.57046L155.217 0.230182H169.373L174.708 5.57046V16.4443ZM156.906 3.81195L153.859 6.89626L153.877 15.0817L156.957 18.166H167.665L170.717 15.1507V6.92863L167.6 3.81195H156.906Z"/> <path d="M101.754 0.395977L116.703 16.5087V0.395977H120.418V20.5876L117.435 23.138L101.391 5.99862V21.6142H97.6756V0.395977H101.754Z"/> <path d="M90.1855 0.40058H94.0295V21.6142H90.1855V0.40058Z"/> <path d="M127.774 5.99862L143.818 23.138L146.801 20.5876V0.395977H143.086V16.5087L128.138 0.395977H124.059V21.6142H127.774V5.99862Z"/> <path d="M194.698 11.2698L188.266 18.1338L181.835 11.2053V0.395977H177.986V12.5634L188.266 23.1702L198.542 12.5634V0.395977H194.698V11.2698Z"/> <path d="M224.99 0.395977L221.841 3.54948L224.626 6.33008L226.978 3.97762H232.415V21.6142H236.259V3.97762H241.696L244.049 6.33008L246.866 3.54948L243.717 0.395977H224.99Z"/> <path d="M248.422 0.40058H252.266V21.6142H248.422V0.40058Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M260.686 0.230182L255.351 5.57046V16.4443L260.686 21.7799H274.866L280.201 16.4443V5.57046L274.866 0.230182H260.686ZM276.168 15.1507L273.116 18.166H262.436L259.351 15.0817V6.89626L262.399 3.81195H273.075L276.191 6.92863L276.168 15.1507Z"/> <path d="M302.289 16.5087V0.395977H306V20.5876L303.017 23.138L286.973 5.99862V21.6142H283.258V0.395977H287.337L302.289 16.5087Z"/> <path d="M94.0295 29.4036H90.1855V50.6172H94.0295V29.4036Z"/> <path d="M101.754 29.4036L116.703 45.5117V29.4036H120.418V49.5906L117.435 52.141L101.391 35.0016V50.6172H97.6756V29.4036H101.754Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M124.059 29.3991V50.6172H142.28L147.487 45.4105V34.6056L142.28 29.3991H124.059ZM143.353 44.0847L140.434 47.0355H127.903V32.9806H140.402L143.353 35.9638V44.0847Z"/> <path d="M154.356 47.1368H165.823L167.946 45.0468L170.597 47.6985L167.683 50.6172H150.576V29.4036H167.582L170.464 32.3177L167.78 35.0016L165.626 32.8839H154.356V38.1183H166.422V41.8334H154.356V47.1368Z"/> <path d="M191.051 32.6169L185.615 38.1873H182.728L177.125 32.5479V29.4036H173.281V33.9105L179.648 39.9736L173.281 46.0734V50.6172H177.125V47.367L182.627 41.7321H185.513L191.051 47.4361V50.6172H194.928V46.0734L188.598 39.9413L194.928 33.9105V29.4036H191.051V32.6169Z"/> <path d="M26.4986 26.7749H50.3962V32.0875H31.8066V36.0374H46.4048V41.3454H31.8066V45.3644H50.3962V50.6724H26.4986V26.7749Z"/> <path d="M52.9604 26.7749V32.0875H62.2505V50.6724H67.5632V32.0875H76.8579V26.7749H52.9604Z"/> <path d="M0.874693 18.9579H23.8975V24.2705H0V13.6407L22.986 5.68097H0V0.368355H23.8975V10.9844L0.874693 18.9579Z"/> <path d="M18.6218 49.7977L10.6528 26.7749H0.0368292V50.6724H5.34944V27.6864L13.3092 50.6724H23.9344V26.7749H18.6218V49.7977Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M50.3594 12.3055V12.3332C50.3496 15.4957 49.0887 18.526 46.852 20.7618C44.6153 22.9977 41.5846 24.2573 38.422 24.2658H26.4525V0.368427H38.422C41.5854 0.376932 44.6167 1.63716 46.8536 3.87399C49.0904 6.11082 50.3509 9.1422 50.3594 12.3055ZM38.4451 5.68106H31.7928V18.9579H38.4497C40.2055 18.9555 41.8886 18.2566 43.1297 17.0146C44.3708 15.7727 45.0686 14.089 45.0698 12.3332V12.3055C45.0673 10.5493 44.3685 8.86573 43.1267 7.6239C41.8849 6.38206 40.2013 5.68349 38.4451 5.68106Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="logo-boxed" viewBox="0 0 1274 1274"><g><path d="M0 0V1274H1274V0H0ZM116 724.57V648.37L427.64 540.46H116V468.46H440V612.37L127.86 720.46H440V792.46H116V724.57ZM440.5 1150.46H296.41L188.5 838.82V1150.46H116.5V826.46H260.41L368.5 1138.59V826.46H440.5V1150.46ZM474.75 468.46H636.92C726.15 468.46 798.75 541.06 798.75 630.29V630.66C798.75 719.88 726.17 792.46 636.95 792.46H474.75V468.46ZM799.25 898.46H547.25V952H745.16V1024H547.25V1078.46H799.25V1150.46H475.25V826.46H799.25V898.46ZM1158 898.46H1032V1150.46H960V898.46H834V826.46H1158V898.46Z"/> <path d="M726.75 630.66V630.29C726.724 606.474 717.251 583.64 700.41 566.8C683.57 549.959 660.736 540.486 636.92 540.46H546.75V720.46H636.95C660.758 720.433 683.584 710.964 700.419 694.129C717.254 677.294 726.724 654.468 726.75 630.66Z"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="logo-deep-dive-blank" viewBox="0 0 171 86"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M170 1H86V85H170V1ZM85 0V86H171V0H85Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M85 1H1V85H85V1ZM0 0V86H86V0H0Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M24.4699 39.9765H36.827V42.827H24V40.1393V39.9765V37.1225L36.3377 32.8504H24V30H36.827V32.681V32.8504V35.6973L24.4699 39.9765ZM38.2225 44.173V47.0235V49.1431V51.9935V54.1496V57H41.0729H51.0495V54.1496H41.0729V51.9935H48.9085V49.1431H41.0729V47.0235H51.0495V44.173H41.0729H38.2225ZM60.2639 44.173H57.4135H52.4252V47.0235H57.4135V57H60.2639V47.0235H65.2522V44.173H60.2639ZM33.9963 56.5301L29.7171 44.173H26.8702H26.7008H24.0198V57H26.8702V44.6623L31.1423 57H33.9963H34.159H36.8468V44.173H33.9963V56.5301ZM51.0297 36.4068V36.4214C51.0297 39.9536 48.1563 42.827 44.6245 42.827H38.2027V30H44.6229C48.1559 30 51.0297 32.8742 51.0297 36.4068ZM44.6229 32.8504H41.0532V39.9765H44.6245C45.567 39.9755 46.4707 39.6006 47.1371 38.9341C47.8035 38.2676 48.1783 37.3639 48.1793 36.4214V36.4068C48.1782 35.4639 47.8032 34.5599 47.1365 33.8932C46.4698 33.2265 45.5658 32.8515 44.6229 32.8504Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="logo-deep-dive-in-depth" viewBox="0 0 171 86"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M171 1H87V85H171V1ZM86 0V86H172V0H86Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M86 0H0V86H86V0ZM37.827 39.9765H25.4699L37.827 35.6973V32.8504V32.681V30H25V32.8504H37.3377L25 37.1225V39.9765V40.1393V42.827H37.827V39.9765ZM39.2225 47.0235V44.173H42.0729H52.0495V47.0235H42.0729V49.1431H49.9085V51.9935H42.0729V54.1496H52.0495V57H42.0729H39.2225V54.1496V51.9935V49.1431V47.0235ZM58.4135 44.173H61.2639H66.2522V47.0235H61.2639V57H58.4135V47.0235H53.4252V44.173H58.4135ZM30.7171 44.173L34.9963 56.5301V44.173H37.8468V57H35.159H34.9963H32.1423L27.8702 44.6623V57H25.0198V44.173H27.7008H27.8702H30.7171ZM52.0297 36.4214V36.4068C52.0297 32.8742 49.1559 30 45.6229 30H39.2027V42.827H45.6245C49.1563 42.827 52.0297 39.9536 52.0297 36.4214ZM42.0532 32.8504H45.6229C46.5658 32.8515 47.4698 33.2265 48.1365 33.8932C48.8032 34.5599 49.1782 35.4639 49.1793 36.4068V36.4214C49.1783 37.3639 48.8035 38.2676 48.1371 38.9341C47.4706 39.6006 46.567 39.9755 45.6245 39.9765H42.0532V32.8504Z"/> <g clip-path="url(#clip0_10038_12573)"><path d="M97 46.2456H106.177L108.73 48.7989V54.4373L106.177 57.0046H97V46.2456ZM98.3443 55.7559H105.537L107.301 53.9916V49.2866L105.537 47.4872H98.3419L98.3443 55.7559Z"/> <path d="M121.11 46.2456L122.555 47.6739L121.622 48.6308L120.455 47.4639H114.067V50.9366H120.856V52.2622H114.067V55.7629H120.513L121.68 54.6217L122.613 55.5553L121.169 56.9999H112.734V46.2456H121.11Z"/> <path d="M125.852 57.0046V46.2456H133.616L135.581 48.178V51.2353L133.616 53.2027H127.196V57.0046H125.852ZM127.196 51.9798H133.012L134.179 50.8129V48.6961L133.012 47.5012H127.196V51.9798Z"/> <path d="M142.539 57.0048V47.4921H139.244L138.018 48.7197L137.043 47.7628L138.539 46.2505H147.874L149.368 47.7628L148.395 48.7197L147.183 47.4921H143.874V57.0048H142.539Z"/> <path d="M160.375 57.0046V52.2319H152.51V57.0046H151.166V46.2456H152.51V50.9506H160.375V46.2456H161.72V57.0046H160.375Z"/> <path d="M98.3423 30V40.7543H96.998V30H98.3423Z"/> <path d="M114.039 30.0002V40.4697L112.93 41.4266L104.108 31.8579V40.7474H102.797V29.9932H104.293L112.73 39.1674V29.9932L114.039 30.0002Z"/></g> <defs><clipPath id="clip0_10038_12573"><rect width="64.7192" height="27" fill="white" transform="translate(97 30)"/></clipPath></defs></symbol> <symbol id="logo-in-depth" viewBox="0 0 306 44" fill="none"><path d="M0 0H306V44H0V0Z" fill="#20222A"/> <path d="M110.5 35.2074V8.15776L107.112 8.13965V31.8489L85.3197 8.13965H81.4545V35.9311H84.8375V12.9635L107.636 37.6857L110.5 35.2074Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M130.815 8.15776H154.524L161.12 14.7604V29.3464L154.524 35.9492H130.815V8.15776ZM134.288 32.7352H152.872L157.43 28.1767V16.0206L152.872 11.3717H134.288V32.7352Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M193.109 8.15776L196.841 11.8479L194.429 14.3262L191.414 11.3113H174.911V20.2536H192.451V23.6845H174.911V32.7594H191.583L194.598 29.8047L197.01 32.2166L193.277 35.9551H171.443V8.16379L193.109 8.15776Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M205.355 8.15776V35.9492H208.828V26.1326H225.416L230.493 21.0554V13.1505L225.416 8.15776H205.355ZM223.855 22.967H208.828V11.3957H223.855L226.869 14.477V19.9521L223.855 22.967Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M248.474 35.9492V11.3717H239.96L236.794 14.5434L234.274 12.0651L238.139 8.15776H262.258L266.123 12.0651L263.609 14.5434L260.48 11.3717H251.929V35.9492H248.474Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M294.554 23.6181V35.9492H298.027V8.15776H294.554V20.3198H274.234V8.15776H270.76V35.9492H274.234V23.6181H294.554Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M69.9499 8.15777V35.9492H66.4766V8.15777H69.9499Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M35.8663 14.7352L35.8663 14.7503C35.8682 18.3947 32.9051 21.3609 29.2612 21.3628L22.6354 21.3663L22.6284 8.13193L29.2526 8.12844C32.8977 8.12652 35.8644 11.0904 35.8663 14.7352ZM29.2541 11.0694L25.571 11.0714L25.5748 18.4238L29.2596 18.4219C30.2321 18.4203 31.1642 18.033 31.8514 17.3449C32.5387 16.6569 32.9249 15.7243 32.9253 14.7519L32.9253 14.7368C32.9237 13.7639 32.5363 12.8315 31.8481 12.144C31.1598 11.4564 30.2269 11.07 29.2541 11.0694Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M8.46488 18.4328L21.2144 18.4261L21.216 21.3671L7.98158 21.374L7.97848 15.4884L20.7057 11.0739L7.97616 11.0806L7.97461 8.13965L21.209 8.13268L21.2121 14.011L8.46488 18.4328Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M22.6566 22.7551L22.6635 35.9895L35.8979 35.9825L35.8964 33.0416L25.603 33.047L25.6018 30.8225L33.6862 30.8182L33.6847 27.8772L25.6002 27.8815L25.5991 25.6945L35.8925 25.6891L35.8909 22.7481L22.6566 22.7551Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M37.3104 22.7474L37.3119 25.6884L42.4586 25.6857L42.4641 35.9791L45.405 35.9775L45.3996 25.6841L50.5463 25.6814L50.5448 22.7404L37.3104 22.7474Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/> <path d="M18.3029 35.5069L13.881 22.7597L8.00273 22.7628L8.0097 35.9972L10.9507 35.9957L10.944 23.2661L15.3585 35.9933L21.2441 35.9902L21.2371 22.7559L18.2962 22.7574L18.3029 35.5069Z" fill="#D0FF4B"/></symbol> <symbol id="logo-longform" width="86" height="86" viewBox="0 0 86 86" fill="none"><g clip-path="url(#clip0_9590_9948)"><rect width="86" height="86" fill="white"/> <rect width="86" height="86" fill="#080A12"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M22.5221 39.0847H36.2518V42.2518H22V39.2655V39.0847V35.9137L35.7081 31.1671H22V28H36.2518V30.9788V31.1671V34.3302L22.5221 39.0847ZM62.2927 43.7461H59.1256H53.5833V46.9131H59.1256V57.9978H62.2927V46.9131H67.835V43.7461H62.2927ZM37.8025 43.7482V46.9153V49.2703V52.4374V54.8329V58H40.9695H52.0543V54.8329H40.9695V52.4374H49.6754V49.2703H40.9695V46.9153H52.0543V43.7482H40.9695H37.8025ZM33.1064 57.4757L28.3519 43.7461H25.1888H25.0005H22.0217V57.9978H25.1888V44.2897L29.9354 57.9978H33.1064H33.2872H36.2735V43.7461H33.1064V57.4757ZM52.0325 35.1184V35.1347C52.0325 39.0592 48.84 42.2518 44.9159 42.2518H37.7808V28H44.9141C48.8395 28 52.0325 31.1935 52.0325 35.1184ZM44.9141 31.1671H40.9478V39.0847H44.9159C45.9631 39.0835 46.9671 38.667 47.7076 37.9265C48.448 37.1859 48.8644 36.1819 48.8655 35.1347V35.1184C48.8643 34.0708 48.4477 33.0664 47.7069 32.3257C46.9661 31.5849 45.9617 31.1682 44.9141 31.1671Z" fill="white"/></g> <defs><clipPath id="clip0_9590_9948"><rect width="86" height="86" fill="white"/></clipPath></defs></symbol> <symbol id="logo-deep-dive-special-feature" viewBox="0 0 700 351"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0 350.499V0H700V350.499H0ZM103.657 162.927H153.947V174.544H101.744V151.296L151.956 133.884H101.744V122.267H153.947V145.487L103.657 162.927ZM211.829 180.03H159.626V232.308H211.829V220.691H171.227V211.903H203.116V200.286H171.227V191.648H211.829V180.03ZM269.631 191.648V180.03H217.428V191.648H237.729V232.308H249.33V191.648H269.631ZM142.427 230.392L125.011 180.03H101.825V232.308H113.425V182.025L130.812 232.308H154.028V180.03H142.427V230.392ZM211.749 148.378V148.438C211.749 162.834 200.055 174.545 185.681 174.545H159.546V122.267H185.675C200.053 122.267 211.749 133.981 211.749 148.378ZM354.07 4.07557H695.93V346.424H354.07V4.07557ZM185.675 133.884H171.147V162.927H185.681C189.517 162.923 193.195 161.395 195.907 158.679C198.619 155.962 200.144 152.279 200.148 148.438V148.378C200.144 144.536 198.618 140.852 195.904 138.134C193.191 135.417 189.512 133.889 185.675 133.884ZM493.578 216.692H560.477V206.406H509.069L562.556 153.046L543.558 133H505.942L492.53 146.539L499.814 153.823L510.75 142.888H537.177L548.113 154.077L493.578 208.232V216.692ZM480.438 147.19L466.646 133.398H400V216.71H467.152L481.215 202.52V187.156L468.851 174.918L480.438 163.205V147.19ZM470.026 151.492V159.952V159.97L459.741 170.381H410.665V142.779H461.314L470.026 151.492ZM471.075 198.345L461.964 207.329L461.946 207.311H410.665V179.727H459.759L471.075 190.789V198.345ZM640.122 133.398L653.914 147.19V163.205L642.328 174.918L654.691 187.156V202.52L640.628 216.71H573.458V133.398H640.104H640.122ZM643.503 159.952V151.492L634.772 142.779H584.141V170.381H633.217L643.503 159.97V159.952ZM635.441 207.329L644.551 198.345V190.789L633.235 179.727H584.159V207.311H635.441V207.329Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="globe" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M10.1166 22.4959C10.2925 22.6549 10.4742 22.7975 10.6597 22.9192C5.21675 22.258 1 17.6214 1 12C1 12.2761 1.22386 12.5 1.5 12.5H6.63043C6.70062 15.7182 7.44359 18.3424 8.42097 20.2014C8.93405 21.1773 9.51853 21.9552 10.1166 22.4959ZM6.63043 11.5H1.5C1.22386 11.5 1 11.7239 1 12C1 6.37856 5.21675 1.742 10.6597 1.08083C10.4742 1.20254 10.2925 1.34509 10.1166 1.50411C9.51853 2.04484 8.93405 2.82266 8.42097 3.79858C7.44359 5.65764 6.70062 8.28181 6.63043 11.5ZM7.63068 11.5C7.7007 8.43016 8.41024 5.96793 9.3061 4.26392C9.77879 3.36484 10.2966 2.68953 10.7873 2.24589C11.2882 1.79305 11.7105 1.625 12 1.625C12.2895 1.625 12.7118 1.79305 13.2127 2.24589C13.7034 2.68953 14.2212 3.36484 14.6939 4.26392C15.5898 5.96793 16.2993 8.43016 16.3693 11.5H12H7.63068ZM7.63068 12.5H12H16.3693C16.2993 15.5698 15.5898 18.0321 14.6939 19.7361C14.2212 20.6352 13.7034 21.3105 13.2127 21.7541C12.7118 22.207 12.2895 22.375 12 22.375C11.7105 22.375 11.2882 22.207 10.7873 21.7541C10.2966 21.3105 9.77879 20.6352 9.3061 19.7361C8.41024 18.0321 7.7007 15.5698 7.63068 12.5ZM17.3696 12.5C17.2994 15.7182 16.5564 18.3424 15.579 20.2014C15.0659 21.1773 14.4815 21.9552 13.8834 22.4959C13.7075 22.6549 13.5258 22.7975 13.3403 22.9192C18.7832 22.258 23 17.6214 23 12C23 6.37856 18.7832 1.742 13.3403 1.08083C13.5258 1.20254 13.7075 1.34509 13.8834 1.50411C14.4815 2.04484 15.0659 2.82266 15.579 3.79858C16.5564 5.65764 17.2994 8.28181 17.3696 11.5H22.5C22.7761 11.5 23 11.7239 23 12C23 12.2761 22.7761 12.5 22.5 12.5H17.3696ZM24 12C24 18.6274 18.6274 24 12 24C5.37258 24 0 18.6274 0 12C0 5.37258 5.37258 0 12 0C18.6274 0 24 5.37258 24 12Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="user" viewBox="0 0 18 19"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M9 2.5a3.5 3.5 0 1 0 0 7 3.5 3.5 0 0 0 0-7zM4.5 6a4.5 4.5 0 1 1 9 0 4.5 4.5 0 0 1-9 0zM3.395 12.793C4.723 12.023 6.535 11.5 9 11.5c2.465 0 4.277.522 5.605 1.293a6.902 6.902 0 0 1 2.646 2.692c.418.767.28 1.555-.189 2.127-.453.553-1.196.888-2 .888H2.938c-.805 0-1.548-.335-2.001-.888-.469-.572-.606-1.36-.19-2.127l.44.239-.44-.239a6.902 6.902 0 0 1 2.647-2.692zm.501.865c-1.149.666-1.845 1.525-2.269 2.305-.21.386-.144.737.084 1.015.243.296.69.522 1.228.522H15.06c.54 0 .985-.226 1.228-.522.228-.278.294-.629.084-1.015-.424-.78-1.12-1.639-2.27-2.305C12.954 12.99 11.322 12.5 9 12.5c-2.32 0-3.953.49-5.104 1.158z"/></symbol> <symbol id="user-filled" viewBox="0 0 18 19"><path d="M9 10a4 4 0 1 0 0-8 4 4 0 0 0 0 8zM2.939 18H15.06c1.344 0 2.378-1.122 1.751-2.276C15.89 14.026 13.785 12 9 12c-4.786 0-6.89 2.026-7.812 3.724C.56 16.878 1.595 18 2.938 18z" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round"/></symbol> <symbol id="arrow-dropdown" width="13" height="7" viewBox="0 0 13 7"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M12.854.146a.5.5 0 0 1 0 .708l-6 6a.5.5 0 0 1-.708 0l-6-6A.5.5 0 0 1 .854.146L6.5 5.793 12.146.146a.5.5 0 0 1 .708 0z"/></symbol> <symbol id="arrow-thin" viewBox="0 0 14 13"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M6.64645 0.146447C6.84171 -0.0488155 7.15829 -0.0488155 7.35355 0.146447L13.3536 6.14645C13.5488 6.34171 13.5488 6.65829 13.3536 6.85355L7.35355 12.8536C7.15829 13.0488 6.84171 13.0488 6.64645 12.8536C6.45118 12.6583 6.45118 12.3417 6.64645 12.1464L12.2929 6.5L6.64645 0.853553C6.45118 0.658291 6.45118 0.341709 6.64645 0.146447Z"/> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M0.5 6.5C0.5 6.22386 0.723858 6 1 6H13C13.2761 6 13.5 6.22386 13.5 6.5C13.5 6.77614 13.2761 7 13 7H1C0.723858 7 0.5 6.77614 0.5 6.5Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="about-values-icon-1" width="60" height="45"><g fill="#080A12"><path d="M.885706 13.0888C6.2542 8.60369 17.1732 1.08003 30.0096 1.08003c12.8363 0 23.7456 7.52366 29.1238 12.00877.1103.086.2498.1258.389.1109.1391-.0149.267-.0834.3565-.1909.0896-.1075.1338-.2457.1233-.3852-.0105-.1395-.0749-.2695-.1795-.3625C54.3426 7.68142 43.1833 0 30.0168 0 16.8504 0 5.69114 7.68142.210996 12.2611a.541129.541129 0 0 0-.132015.1639.539712.539712 0 0 0-.059252.2019c-.00631.0706.001292.1416.022457.2092.021164.0676.05543.1304.100848.1847.045417.0543.101137.0992.163892.132.062756.0329.131334.053.201874.0593.07054.0063.141636-.0013.209221-.0225.067585-.0212.130349-.0554.184691-.1008H.885706Z"/><path d="M59.8566 20.0421c-.1311-.1384-12.7126-13.42616-28.323-14.27075a14.727413 14.727413 0 0 0-3.0677 0C12.8556 6.61594.274003 19.9037.145373 20.0421a.536122.536122 0 0 0-.142443.364c0 .1349.050847.2649.142443.364.12863.1384 12.710227 13.4237 28.320527 14.2683 1.0198.1068 2.0479.1068 3.0677 0 15.6104-.8446 28.1919-14.1299 28.323-14.2683.0905-.0996.1407-.2294.1407-.364s-.0502-.2644-.1407-.364Zm-58.56327.3664C3.10387 18.5956 11.5741 10.5962 22.4955 7.77118c-2.1968 1.29764-4.0173 3.14562-5.282 5.36152-1.2647 2.2159-1.9298 4.7232-1.9298 7.2746s.6651 5.0588 1.9298 7.2747c1.2647 2.2159 3.0852 4.0638 5.282 5.3614C11.5765 30.216 3.10387 22.2215 1.29333 20.4085ZM29.9998 6.76884c2.6976 0 5.3347.79996 7.5778 2.2987 2.243 1.49876 3.9912 3.62896 5.0236 6.12126 1.0323 2.4924 1.3024 5.2348.7761 7.8807-.5262 2.6458-1.8253 5.0762-3.7328 6.9837-1.9076 1.9076-4.3379 3.2066-6.9838 3.7329-2.6458.5263-5.3883.2562-7.8806-.7762-2.4924-1.0323-4.6226-2.7806-6.1213-5.0236-1.4987-2.243-2.2987-4.8801-2.2987-7.5778.0064-3.6146 1.4458-7.0792 4.0026-9.6342 2.5568-2.55496 6.0225-3.9919 9.6371-3.99574v-.00972Zm7.5091 26.27696c2.1967-1.2979 4.0172-3.1461 5.2818-5.3622 1.2646-2.2161 1.9297-4.7235 1.9297-7.2751 0-2.5515-.6651-5.059-1.9297-7.2751s-3.0851-4.06426-5.2818-5.36222C48.4303 10.5986 56.8981 18.5956 58.7086 20.4085c-1.813 1.8154-10.2855 9.8099-21.1997 12.6373Z"/><path d="M20.4595 24.4956c.05.05.1094.0898.1748.1168.0653.0271.1354.041.2062.041.0707 0 .1408-.0139.2062-.041.0654-.027.1248-.0668.1748-.1168l5.0069-5.0044 5.053 5.0481c.0498.05.109.0896.1742.1167.0651.027.135.0409.2056.0409.0705 0 .1405-.0139.2056-.0409.0652-.0271.1244-.0667.1742-.1167l6.582-6.5796v2.2426c0 .1429.0568.2799.1578.3809.1011.1011.2381.1579.381.1579s.2799-.0568.381-.1579c.101-.101.1578-.238.1578-.3809v-3.5435c.0003-.0708-.0134-.141-.0404-.2065-.0269-.0655-.0666-.125-.1167-.1751a.53712.53712 0 0 0-.1751-.1168.534446.534446 0 0 0-.2066-.0403h-3.5434c-.1429 0-.2799.0567-.381.1578-.101.101-.1578.238-.1578.3809 0 .1429.0568.28.1578.381.1011.1011.2381.1579.381.1579h2.2426l-6.201 6.1985-5.0506-5.0506c-.1014-.1005-.2383-.1569-.381-.1569s-.2797.0564-.381.1569l-5.3879 5.3904c-.0503.0496-.0902.1087-.1175.1739-.0272.0652-.0412.1352-.0412.2059 0 .0707.014.1406.0412.2058.0273.0652.0672.1243.1175.174ZM20.3548 38.5551h-1.2135c-.1429 0-.2799.0568-.3809.1578-.1011.1011-.1579.2381-.1579.381s.0568.28.1579.381c.101.101.238.1578.3809.1578h1.2135c.1429 0 .28-.0568.381-.1578.1011-.101.1578-.2381.1578-.381s-.0567-.2799-.1578-.381c-.101-.101-.2381-.1578-.381-.1578ZM25.4808 38.5551h-1.2135c-.1429 0-.28.0568-.381.1578-.101.1011-.1578.2381-.1578.381s.0568.28.1578.381c.101.101.2381.1578.381.1578h1.2135c.1429 0 .2799-.0568.381-.1578.101-.101.1578-.2381.1578-.381s-.0568-.2799-.1578-.381c-.1011-.101-.2381-.1578-.381-.1578ZM30.6068 38.5551h-1.2135c-.1429 0-.2799.0568-.381.1578-.101.1011-.1578.2381-.1578.381s.0568.28.1578.381c.1011.101.2381.1578.381.1578h1.2135c.1429 0 .2799-.0568.381-.1578.101-.101.1578-.2381.1578-.381s-.0568-.2799-.1578-.381c-.1011-.101-.2381-.1578-.381-.1578ZM35.7249 38.5551h-1.2135c-.1429 0-.2799.0568-.381.1578a.539.539 0 0 0-.1577.381c0 .1429.0567.28.1577.381.1011.101.2381.1578.381.1578h1.2135c.1429 0 .28-.0568.381-.1578.1011-.101.1578-.2381.1578-.381s-.0567-.2799-.1578-.381c-.101-.101-.2381-.1578-.381-.1578ZM40.8558 38.5551h-1.2135c-.1429 0-.2799.0568-.3809.1578-.1011.1011-.1579.2381-.1579.381s.0568.28.1579.381c.101.101.238.1578.3809.1578h1.2135c.1429 0 .2799-.0568.381-.1578.101-.101.1578-.2381.1578-.381s-.0568-.2799-.1578-.381c-.1011-.101-.2381-.1578-.381-.1578ZM20.3552 43.0596h-1.2135c-.137.0092-.2653.0701-.3591.1703-.0938.1003-.1459.2325-.1459.3697 0 .1373.0521.2694.1459.3697s.2221.1611.3591.1703h1.2135c.0739.005.1481-.0053.218-.0302.0698-.0249.1338-.0638.1879-.1145.0541-.0506.0973-.1118.1268-.1798.0295-.068.0447-.1414.0447-.2155s-.0152-.1474-.0447-.2154-.0727-.1293-.1268-.1799a.541536.541536 0 0 0-.1879-.1145c-.0699-.0248-.1441-.0351-.218-.0302ZM25.4812 43.0596h-1.2135c-.137.0092-.2653.0701-.3591.1703-.0937.1003-.1459.2324-.1459.3697 0 .1373.0522.2694.1459.3697.0938.1003.2221.1611.3591.1703h1.2135c.137-.0092.2653-.07.3591-.1703.0937-.1003.1459-.2324.1459-.3697 0-.1373-.0522-.2694-.1459-.3697-.0938-.1002-.2221-.1611-.3591-.1703ZM30.6063 43.0596h-1.2135c-.0739-.0049-.1481.0054-.2179.0302a.541536.541536 0 0 0-.1879.1145c-.0542.0506-.0973.1119-.1268.1799s-.0448.1413-.0448.2154.0153.1475.0448.2155.0726.1292.1268.1798c.0541.0507.1181.0896.1879.1145.0698.0249.144.0352.2179.0302h1.2135c.137-.0092.2654-.07.3591-.1703.0938-.1003.146-.2324.146-.3697 0-.1372-.0522-.2694-.146-.3697-.0937-.1002-.2221-.1611-.3591-.1703ZM35.7255 43.0596H34.512a.543885.543885 0 0 0-.218.0302.541536.541536 0 0 0-.1879.1145c-.0541.0506-.0973.1119-.1268.1799a.541159.541159 0 0 0-.0447.2154c0 .0741.0152.1475.0447.2155s.0727.1292.1268.1798c.0541.0507.1181.0896.1879.1145.0698.0249.144.0352.218.0302h1.2135c.0739.005.1482-.0053.218-.0302.0698-.0249.1337-.0638.1879-.1145.0541-.0506.0973-.1118.1268-.1798.0295-.068.0447-.1414.0447-.2155s-.0152-.1474-.0447-.2154-.0727-.1293-.1268-.1799c-.0542-.0506-.1181-.0896-.1879-.1145-.0698-.0248-.1441-.0351-.218-.0302ZM40.8563 43.0596h-1.2135c-.0739-.0049-.1481.0054-.2179.0302a.541536.541536 0 0 0-.1879.1145c-.0542.0506-.0973.1119-.1268.1799s-.0448.1413-.0448.2154.0153.1475.0448.2155.0726.1292.1268.1798c.0541.0507.1181.0896.1879.1145.0698.0249.144.0352.2179.0302h1.2135c.074.005.1482-.0053.218-.0302.0699-.0249.1338-.0638.188-.1145.0541-.0506.0973-.1118.1268-.1798.0295-.068.0447-.1414.0447-.2155s-.0152-.1474-.0447-.2154-.0727-.1293-.1268-.1799c-.0542-.0506-.1181-.0896-.188-.1145a.543885.543885 0 0 0-.218-.0302Z"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="about-values-icon-2" width="60" height="61"><g fill="#080A12"><path d="M35.8549 11.172c-.0024-1.1544-.3467-2.28207-.9895-3.24084-.6428-.95877-1.5553-1.70562-2.6222-2.14624-1.0669-.44062-2.2404-.55527-3.3724-.32949-1.132.22579-2.1718.7819-2.988 1.59812-.8162.81622-1.3723 1.85597-1.5981 2.98795-.2258 1.132-.1112 2.3056.3295 3.3725.4406 1.0669 1.1875 1.9793 2.1462 2.6221.9588.6428 2.0865.9872 3.2409.9896 1.5519-.0019 3.0396-.6193 4.137-1.7167 1.0974-1.0973 1.7147-2.5851 1.7166-4.137Zm-10.6267 0c-.0005-.9442.279-1.86722.8032-2.65246.5242-.78524 1.2695-1.39739 2.1416-1.75902.8721-.36163 1.8319-.4565 2.7579-.27261.9261.1839 1.7768.63829 2.4445 1.30571.6678.66743 1.1226 1.5179 1.307 2.44388.1843.9259.09 1.8857-.2712 2.758-.3612.8723-.973 1.6179-1.7579 2.1425-.785.5246-1.7079.8046-2.652.8046-1.2647-.002-2.477-.5052-3.3713-1.3995-.8942-.8942-1.3974-2.1065-1.3994-3.3711h-.0024ZM27.3527 54.6866c.2928-.4357.6886-.7924 1.1523-1.0384.4637-.246.981-.3737 1.5059-.3718.525.002 1.0413.1335 1.5032.3829.4619.2494.8551.6089 1.1447 1.0468.8459-.0013 1.6568-.3379 2.2549-.936.5981-.5982.9347-1.4091.936-2.255V36.4415c1.0384-.1126 1.9989-.6041 2.6977-1.3806.6987-.7764 1.0867-1.7832 1.0896-2.8277v-7.6233c-.002-1.4667-.5855-2.8727-1.6226-3.9098-1.0371-1.0372-2.4432-1.6207-3.9099-1.6226h-8.2098c-1.4667.0019-2.8727.5854-3.9098 1.6226-1.0372 1.0371-1.6207 2.4431-1.6226 3.9098v7.6281c.0036 1.0452.3924 2.0523 1.092 2.8288.6997.7764 1.661 1.2676 2.7002 1.3796v15.0541c.0025.8463.3407 1.6571.9403 2.2544.5996.5973 1.4116.9324 2.2579.9317Zm-5.9073-22.4534v-7.6233c.0013-1.1798.4704-2.311 1.3045-3.1455.834-.8345 1.965-1.3043 3.1448-1.3062h8.2098c1.1801.0019 2.3113.4716 3.1458 1.306.8344.8345 1.3041 1.9657 1.306 3.1457v7.6281c-.0014.759-.2755 1.4921-.7723 2.0658-.4969.5737-1.1834.9497-1.9343 1.0595v-10.488a.542332.542332 0 0 0-.0303-.2187c-.0249-.07-.0641-.1341-.1148-.1884a.543219.543219 0 0 0-.1804-.1272c-.0682-.0296-.1417-.0449-.216-.0449-.0744 0-.1479.0153-.2161.0449a.543219.543219 0 0 0-.1804.1272c-.0508.0543-.0899.1184-.1148.1884a.542332.542332 0 0 0-.0303.2187v26.6398c0 .5604-.2226 1.0977-.6188 1.4939-.3962.3962-.9336.6188-1.4939.6188s-1.0977-.2226-1.4939-.6188c-.3962-.3962-.6188-.9335-.6188-1.4939V34.7207c0-.1433-.057-.2808-.1583-.3821s-.2387-.1583-.382-.1583-.2808.057-.3821.1583-.1583.2388-.1583.3821v16.7944c0 .5604-.2226 1.0977-.6188 1.4939-.3962.3962-.9336.6188-1.4939.6188s-1.0977-.2226-1.4939-.6188c-.3962-.3962-.6188-.9335-.6188-1.4939V24.8533c0-.1433-.0569-.2807-.1582-.382-.1013-.1014-.2388-.1583-.3821-.1583-.1433 0-.2808.0569-.3821.1583-.1013.1013-.1582.2387-.1582.382V35.356c-.751-.1092-1.4378-.4846-1.935-1.0579-.4973-.5732-.7721-1.3061-.7741-2.0649Z"/><path d="M57.8755 39.6154c-.135-.0473-.2832-.0399-.4128.0206-.1297.0605-.2305.1693-.2809.3032-2.0385 5.5692-5.7387 10.3778-10.5998 13.7751-4.8612 3.3972-10.6487 5.2192-16.5793 5.2192s-11.718-1.822-16.5792-5.2192C8.56237 50.317 4.86219 45.5084 2.82371 39.9392c-.05044-.1339-.15126-.2427-.28089-.3032-.12964-.0605-.27776-.0679-.41276-.0206-.06688.0242-.12833.0614-.18082.1094-.05249.048-.09502.1058-.12509.1703a.540047.540047 0 0 0-.05021.2052c-.00306.0711.00796.142.03238.2088 2.11572 5.7768 5.95476 10.7644 10.99778 14.288 5.043 3.5236 11.0466 5.4133 17.1986 5.4133 6.1521 0 12.1557-1.8897 17.1987-5.4133 5.043-3.5236 8.882-8.5112 10.9978-14.288.0486-.1349.0419-.2836-.0188-.4136-.0606-.13-.1703-.2307-.3049-.2801ZM2.13494 20.3919c.13497.0479.28337.0409.41317-.0197.12981-.0606.23057-.1698.28048-.304C4.86944 14.503 8.56987 9.6986 13.4296 6.30456c4.8597-3.39405 10.6444-5.2141 16.572-5.2141s11.7122 1.82005 16.5719 5.2141c4.8597 3.39404 8.5601 8.19844 10.601 13.76364.0383.1041.1076.194.1986.2575.0909.0635.1991.0977.3101.0978.0629-.001.1253-.0117.185-.0316a.538922.538922 0 0 0 .1807-.1094c.0525-.0479.0951-.1058.1251-.1703.0301-.0644.0472-.1342.0502-.2052.0031-.0711-.0079-.142-.0323-.2088-2.1171-5.7738-5.9559-10.75832-10.9976-14.27964C42.1526 1.89723 36.1512.008911 30.0016.008911c-6.1497 0-12.1511 1.888319-17.1928 5.409649C7.76709 8.93988 3.92823 13.9244 1.81121 19.6982c-.02443.0668-.03545.1377-.03239.2088.00306.071.02014.1408.05021.2052.03008.0645.0726.1224.12509.1703.05249.048.11394.0852.18082.1094Z"/><path d="M14.3167 45.6979c-2.4855-2.488-4.34385-5.5314-5.42187-8.8789-1.07802-3.3476-1.34479-6.9035-.77827-10.3744.56652-3.471 1.95004-6.7575 4.03654-9.5886 2.0865-2.831 4.8162-5.1255 7.9638-6.6941.1291-.0646.2273-.17779.2729-.31472.0457-.13694.0351-.2864-.0295-.41551-.0645-.1291-.1778-.22728-.3147-.27293-.1369-.04564-.2864-.03502-.4155.02954-3.8737 1.92922-7.1328 4.90042-9.4108 8.57992-2.27811 3.6794-3.48492 7.9213-3.48492 12.2488 0 4.3276 1.20681 8.5694 3.48492 12.2489 2.278 3.6794 5.5371 6.6507 9.4108 8.5799.1291.0646.2786.0752.4155.0295.1369-.0456.2502-.1438.3147-.2729.0646-.1291.0752-.2786.0295-.4155-.0456-.1369-.1438-.2501-.2729-.3147-2.1469-1.0677-4.1059-2.4775-5.8002-4.1743ZM40.1894 50.8653c.0846-.0002.168-.0202.2434-.0584 3.8572-1.9352 7.1003-4.9051 9.3665-8.5776 2.2663-3.6725 3.4666-7.9029 3.4666-12.2184 0-4.3154-1.2003-8.5459-3.4666-12.2183-2.2662-3.6725-5.5093-6.6424-9.3665-8.57757-.0638-.03249-.1335-.05197-.2049-.05731a.540028.540028 0 0 0-.2111.02624.53905.53905 0 0 0-.1846.1057c-.054.04712-.098.10448-.1296.16877-.0643.12915-.0747.27852-.0291.41539.0456.13688.1436.25008.2725.31478 3.6781 1.8446 6.7706 4.6759 8.9318 8.1774 2.1611 3.5015 3.3056 7.5351 3.3056 11.6498 0 4.1147-1.1445 8.1483-3.3056 11.6498-2.1612 3.5015-5.2537 6.3328-8.9318 8.1774a.542139.542139 0 0 0-.2472.2557c-.0514.1105-.0641.2352-.036.3538.0281.1187.0954.2244.1909.3001.0956.0758.2138.1172.3357.1175v-.0048Z"/><path d="M40.1629 42.8792c.1258.0002.2476-.0447.3431-.1266.4041-.3334.796-.6888 1.1708-1.0661 3.093-3.0985 4.8302-7.2977 4.8302-11.6758 0-4.378-1.7372-8.5772-4.8302-11.6758-.3919-.3918-.7959-.7569-1.217-1.1001-.0548-.0451-.118-.0789-.1859-.0996-.0679-.0206-.1392-.0277-.2098-.0208s-.1392.0276-.2018.061c-.0626.0334-.1181.0788-.1631.1336-.0451.0548-.079.118-.0996.1859a.53952.53952 0 0 0-.0209.2098c.0069.0706.0277.1392.0611.2018.0334.0627.0788.1181.1336.1631.3919.3238.7691.6645 1.1342 1.0272 2.8906 2.8966 4.514 6.8217 4.514 10.9139 0 4.0923-1.6234 8.0173-4.514 10.914-.3521.3537-.7172.6856-1.0953.9955-.0853.0714-.1466.1672-.1756.2746-.029.1073-.0243.221.0134.3256.0377.1047.1066.1952.1975.2593.0908.0642.1992.0989.3104.0995h.0049ZM20.2602 41.9837c-.404-.3245-.7951-.6775-1.1732-1.0588-2.8904-2.8962-4.5138-6.8209-4.5138-10.9127 0-4.0918 1.6234-8.0165 4.5138-10.9128.3627-.3626.7302-.7058 1.1294-1.0247.1107-.091.1807-.2223.1946-.3649.014-.1426-.0293-.285-.1203-.3957-.0911-.1107-.2224-.1807-.365-.1946a.539651.539651 0 0 0-.3957.1204c-.4241.344-.8303.7096-1.2169 1.0953-3.0963 3.0997-4.8356 7.3018-4.8356 11.683 0 4.3813 1.7393 8.5834 4.8356 11.6831.404.4017.8202.7765 1.251 1.1294.055.0451.1183.0789.1863.0995.0681.0206.1395.0276.2102.0206.0708-.007.1394-.0279.2021-.0614a.543834.543834 0 0 0 .1633-.1341c.045-.055.0788-.1183.0994-.1864.0206-.068.0276-.1394.0206-.2102a.540746.540746 0 0 0-.0615-.2021c-.0335-.0626-.079-.1181-.134-.1632l.0097-.0097ZM59.4599 32.8855H55.899c-.1373.0092-.266.0703-.3601.1708-.094.1006-.1463.2331-.1463.3707 0 .1377.0523.2702.1463.3708.0941.1005.2228.1616.3601.1708h3.5537a.54137.54137 0 0 0 .2185-.0303c.0701-.025.1342-.064.1885-.1148a.543219.543219 0 0 0 .1272-.1804c.0296-.0682.0449-.1417.0449-.2161 0-.0743-.0153-.1479-.0449-.216a.543219.543219 0 0 0-.1272-.1804c-.0543-.0508-.1184-.0899-.1885-.1148a.54137.54137 0 0 0-.2185-.0303h.0072ZM59.4599 29.4779H55.899c-.1373.0092-.266.0703-.3601.1708-.094.1006-.1463.2331-.1463.3708 0 .1376.0523.2702.1463.3707.0941.1006.2228.1616.3601.1708h3.5537a.54137.54137 0 0 0 .2185-.0303c.0701-.0249.1342-.064.1885-.1148a.543219.543219 0 0 0 .1272-.1804.542137.542137 0 0 0 .0449-.216c0-.0744-.0153-.1479-.0449-.2161a.543219.543219 0 0 0-.1272-.1804c-.0543-.0507-.1184-.0898-.1885-.1148-.07-.0249-.1444-.0353-.2185-.0303h.0072ZM55.3652 26.6009c0 .1434.0569.2808.1583.3821.1013.1014.2388.1583.3821.1583h3.5535c.1434 0 .2808-.0569.3821-.1583.1014-.1013.1583-.2387.1583-.3821 0-.1433-.0569-.2807-.1583-.382-.1013-.1014-.2387-.1583-.3821-.1583h-3.5608c-.1421.0019-.2777.0597-.3774.1608-.0998.1011-.1557.2375-.1557.3795ZM4.63692 33.421c0-.1433-.05691-.2808-.15825-.3821-.10133-.1014-.23878-.1583-.38209-.1583H.543007a.541821.541821 0 0 0-.218619.0303c-.070021.025-.134135.0641-.188431.1148-.054296.0508-.097631.1122-.127225.1804a.542679.542679 0 0 0-.044865.2161c0 .0743.01527.1479.044865.2161.029594.0681.07293.1295.127225.1803.054296.0508.11841.0899.188431.1148a.541821.541821 0 0 0 .218619.0303H4.09658c.07116 0 .14167-.014.20739-.0413.06571-.0273.12539-.0674.17559-.1178.05021-.0504.08994-.1103.11695-.1761a.540672.540672 0 0 0 .04041-.2075ZM.543007 30.5537H4.09658c.13736-.0092.26607-.0703.3601-.1708.09403-.1006.14636-.2331.14636-.3707 0-.1377-.05233-.2702-.14636-.3708-.09403-.1005-.22274-.1616-.3601-.1708H.543007a.541821.541821 0 0 0-.218619.0303c-.070021.025-.134135.0641-.188431.1148-.054296.0508-.097631.1122-.127225.1804a.542679.542679 0 0 0-.044865.2161c0 .0743.01527.1479.044865.216.029594.0682.07293.1296.127225.1804.054296.0508.11841.0899.188431.1148a.541821.541821 0 0 0 .218619.0303ZM.543266 27.1413H4.09684c.14331 0 .28076-.0569.38209-.1583.10133-.1013.15824-.2387.15824-.3821 0-.1433-.05691-.2807-.15824-.382-.10133-.1014-.23878-.1583-.38209-.1583H.543266c-.143308 0-.280758.0569-.382092.1583-.101334.1013-.158244.2387-.158244.382 0 .1434.05691.2808.158244.3821.101334.1014.238784.1583.382092.1583Z"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="about-values-icon-3" width="54" height="74" viewBox="0 0 54 74"><g><path d="M49.568 28.468C49.0508 28.468 48.5388 28.5707 48.0613 28.7702C47.5838 28.9698 47.1503 29.2621 46.7857 29.6306C46.4212 29.999 46.1327 30.4362 45.937 30.917C45.7413 31.3979 45.6421 31.9128 45.6453 32.4323L45.7201 42.4586C45.7262 43.3829 45.6084 44.3038 45.37 45.1966C45.2281 44.8444 45.0367 44.5144 44.8015 44.2168C44.42 43.7385 43.9396 43.3491 43.3935 43.0756C42.8474 42.8022 42.2487 42.6511 41.6388 42.6329C41.0436 42.598 40.4484 42.7004 39.8986 42.9322C39.3489 43.164 38.8592 43.5192 38.4672 43.9704L30.541 51.0783C28.7859 52.6506 27.4759 54.6611 26.7439 56.906C26.0131 54.6606 24.703 52.6498 22.9469 51.0783L15.0716 44.0244C14.6766 43.5599 14.1805 43.1928 13.6217 42.9515C13.063 42.7103 12.4565 42.6012 11.8491 42.6329C11.2394 42.6499 10.6407 42.8005 10.0949 43.0741C9.54918 43.3477 9.06948 43.7376 8.68937 44.2168C8.45239 44.5137 8.25985 44.8438 8.11787 45.1966C7.87929 44.3038 7.76153 43.3829 7.76779 42.4586L7.84259 32.4323C7.85858 31.906 7.76939 31.3818 7.58029 30.8907C7.3912 30.3996 7.10602 29.9516 6.74163 29.5731C6.37724 29.1946 5.94101 28.8933 5.45873 28.687C4.97645 28.4807 4.45789 28.3735 3.9337 28.3719C3.4095 28.3703 2.8903 28.4743 2.40677 28.6776C1.92324 28.881 1.4852 29.1796 1.11851 29.5558C0.751822 29.9321 0.463935 30.3784 0.271856 30.8683C0.0797769 31.3582 -0.0125971 31.8818 0.000190969 32.4082V45.4941C-0.00720213 49.5283 1.28024 53.4574 3.67155 56.6986L10.5535 66.0637C11.3665 67.1839 11.8064 68.5335 11.8102 69.9197L11.8521 73.2258C11.8536 73.4017 11.9243 73.5699 12.0487 73.6937C12.1731 73.8175 12.3412 73.887 12.5163 73.887C12.6922 73.8838 12.8598 73.811 12.9825 73.6844C13.1052 73.5577 13.1732 73.3875 13.1716 73.2108L13.1327 69.9047C13.1296 68.2355 12.6007 66.6101 11.6217 65.2612L4.73974 55.8901C2.51824 52.8796 1.32302 49.2294 1.33169 45.4821V32.3962C1.32114 32.0472 1.38064 31.6996 1.50662 31.3741C1.6326 31.0486 1.82248 30.7519 2.06499 30.5017C2.30749 30.2515 2.59765 30.0529 2.91817 29.9176C3.23869 29.7824 3.58302 29.7133 3.93067 29.7145C4.27832 29.7157 4.62218 29.7872 4.94176 29.9247C5.26134 30.0621 5.55011 30.2628 5.79088 30.5147C6.03165 30.7666 6.21949 31.0646 6.34322 31.3909C6.46695 31.7173 6.52405 32.0653 6.51109 32.4142L6.43928 42.4375C6.41983 44.8371 7.14569 47.183 8.51582 49.1488C8.64408 49.3515 8.7871 49.5444 8.9437 49.7259C9.08732 49.9092 9.24291 50.0835 9.39252 50.2578L15.0477 56.5694C15.1328 56.6577 15.2393 56.7225 15.3568 56.7572C15.4742 56.792 15.5986 56.7956 15.7179 56.7677C15.831 56.7419 15.9353 56.6866 16.0203 56.6075C16.1054 56.5283 16.1683 56.4281 16.2026 56.3169C16.2378 56.2068 16.2433 56.0892 16.2186 55.9763C16.1939 55.8633 16.1399 55.7589 16.062 55.6737L9.97001 48.8753C9.85032 48.722 9.73363 48.5748 9.62292 48.4065C9.29675 47.9036 9.13217 47.3122 9.15143 46.7124C9.1707 46.1125 9.37287 45.533 9.73063 45.0523C9.99181 44.7198 10.323 44.4494 10.7005 44.2607C11.078 44.0719 11.4924 43.9694 11.914 43.9605C12.3355 43.9516 12.7539 44.0365 13.1389 44.2092C13.524 44.3818 13.8662 44.6379 14.1411 44.9592L22.0702 52.0671C23.3343 53.201 24.3454 54.5904 25.0374 56.1443C25.7294 57.6981 26.0867 59.3814 26.0857 61.0836V73.2138C26.0857 73.3907 26.1557 73.5604 26.2802 73.6856C26.4048 73.8107 26.5738 73.881 26.7499 73.881C26.9261 73.881 27.0951 73.8107 27.2196 73.6856C27.3442 73.5604 27.4142 73.3907 27.4142 73.2138V61.0686C27.4132 59.366 27.7707 57.6825 28.4633 56.1286C29.1558 54.5747 30.1678 53.1854 31.4326 52.0521L39.4097 44.893C39.6832 44.581 40.0225 44.3342 40.4029 44.1704C40.7834 44.0066 41.1953 43.9301 41.6089 43.9463C42.0269 43.9564 42.4375 44.0595 42.811 44.2482C43.1846 44.4368 43.5118 44.7063 43.7692 45.0373C44.1278 45.5177 44.3305 46.0972 44.3497 46.6973C44.369 47.2974 44.2039 47.8888 43.8769 48.3914C43.7662 48.5507 43.6496 48.692 43.5299 48.8603L37.4349 55.6707C37.3588 55.7582 37.307 55.8643 37.285 55.9783C37.2629 56.0923 37.2713 56.2102 37.3092 56.3199C37.3462 56.4317 37.4114 56.5321 37.4984 56.6111C37.5855 56.6901 37.6914 56.7451 37.8059 56.7707C37.9215 56.7988 38.0425 56.7946 38.1559 56.7586C38.2693 56.7226 38.3707 56.6561 38.4492 56.5664L44.1044 50.2548C44.2599 50.0805 44.4036 49.9062 44.5532 49.7259C44.7091 49.5428 44.8521 49.349 44.981 49.1458C46.3561 47.1815 47.0882 44.8358 47.0755 42.4345L47.0007 32.4112C46.9878 32.0623 47.0449 31.7143 47.1686 31.3879C47.2923 31.0616 47.4802 30.7636 47.721 30.5117C47.9617 30.2598 48.2505 30.0591 48.5701 29.9216C48.8897 29.7842 49.2335 29.7127 49.5812 29.7115C49.9288 29.7103 50.2731 29.7794 50.5937 29.9146C50.9142 30.0498 51.2043 30.2485 51.4468 30.4987C51.6893 30.7489 51.8792 31.0456 52.0052 31.3711C52.1312 31.6966 52.1907 32.0442 52.1801 32.3932V45.4791C52.1888 49.2264 50.9936 52.8766 48.7721 55.8871L41.8902 65.2612C40.9131 66.6055 40.3833 68.2253 40.3761 69.8897L40.3372 73.1957C40.3356 73.373 40.404 73.5436 40.5274 73.6704C40.6507 73.7971 40.8191 73.8696 40.9955 73.872C41.1709 73.872 41.3393 73.8026 41.4642 73.6789C41.5891 73.5551 41.6604 73.387 41.6628 73.2108L41.7017 69.8867C41.7055 68.5023 42.1454 67.1546 42.9584 66.0367L49.8403 56.6685C52.2307 53.4271 53.5171 49.4979 53.5087 45.4641V32.3962C53.5067 31.8784 53.4032 31.366 53.2041 30.8883C53.005 30.4107 52.7142 29.9771 52.3483 29.6123C51.9823 29.2476 51.5485 28.9588 51.0714 28.7624C50.5944 28.5661 50.0835 28.466 49.568 28.468Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M19.835 30.8153V35.1372C19.8358 35.3139 19.9061 35.4832 20.0305 35.6081C20.1549 35.7331 20.3234 35.8036 20.4993 35.8044H32.9885C33.0757 35.8044 33.1621 35.7872 33.2427 35.7536C33.3233 35.7201 33.3965 35.6709 33.4582 35.609C33.5199 35.547 33.5688 35.4735 33.6022 35.3925C33.6356 35.3116 33.6527 35.2248 33.6527 35.1372V30.8183C33.6527 28.2456 34.7718 25.6579 36.8035 23.53C39.2712 20.9613 40.6488 17.5301 40.6454 13.9605C40.6491 11.8807 40.1887 9.82647 39.2981 7.94887C38.4075 6.07127 37.1093 4.41803 35.4989 3.11068C33.87 1.79186 31.968 0.85582 29.9323 0.371138C27.8966 -0.113544 25.7787 -0.134588 23.7338 0.309557C21.3297 0.84071 19.1099 2.00539 17.3025 3.68387C15.495 5.36236 14.1653 7.49407 13.4498 9.85984C12.7344 12.2256 12.6592 14.7401 13.2319 17.1448C13.8045 19.5494 15.0044 21.7575 16.7082 23.542C18.719 25.6579 19.835 28.2426 19.835 30.8153ZM14.4043 11.49C14.8723 9.08276 16.0308 6.86554 17.7374 5.11132C19.4439 3.35709 21.624 2.14244 24.0091 1.61694C25.8601 1.21372 27.7774 1.23172 29.6206 1.6696C31.4638 2.10749 33.186 2.95418 34.6611 4.14757C36.118 5.32967 37.2925 6.82483 38.0983 8.52304C38.904 10.2212 39.3204 12.0793 39.3169 13.9605C39.3222 17.1839 38.0822 20.2837 35.858 22.6073C33.5869 24.9846 32.3392 27.9 32.3392 30.8183V34.479H27.4081V20.2841H30.1968C30.3657 20.2727 30.5239 20.1973 30.6395 20.0731C30.7551 19.949 30.8194 19.7853 30.8194 19.6153C30.8194 19.4453 30.7551 19.2817 30.6395 19.1575C30.5239 19.0334 30.3657 18.958 30.1968 18.9466H23.291C23.1998 18.9405 23.1083 18.9532 23.0222 18.984C22.9362 19.0149 22.8573 19.0631 22.7905 19.1258C22.7238 19.1885 22.6706 19.2643 22.6342 19.3485C22.5978 19.4327 22.5791 19.5235 22.5791 19.6153C22.5791 19.7071 22.5978 19.7979 22.6342 19.8821C22.6706 19.9663 22.7238 20.0422 22.7905 20.1049C22.8573 20.1676 22.9362 20.2158 23.0222 20.2466C23.1083 20.2775 23.1998 20.2902 23.291 20.2841H26.0766V34.479H21.1665V30.8153C21.1665 27.894 19.9188 24.9846 17.6538 22.6163C16.2564 21.1642 15.2307 19.3931 14.6647 17.4552C14.0987 15.5172 14.0094 13.4703 14.4043 11.49Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M32.2945 38.5394C32.2945 38.3617 32.2242 38.1912 32.099 38.0655C31.9739 37.9398 31.8042 37.8692 31.6272 37.8692H21.8609C21.692 37.8806 21.5338 37.956 21.4182 38.0801C21.3026 38.2043 21.2383 38.3679 21.2383 38.5379C21.2383 38.7079 21.3026 38.8715 21.4182 38.9957C21.5338 39.1199 21.692 39.1953 21.8609 39.2066H31.6272C31.8037 39.2066 31.9729 39.1364 32.098 39.0114C32.223 38.8864 32.2937 38.7167 32.2945 38.5394Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M31.6124 42.0558C31.6128 41.9681 31.5959 41.8812 31.5627 41.8C31.5294 41.7189 31.4805 41.6452 31.4187 41.5832C31.357 41.5211 31.2836 41.472 31.2028 41.4386C31.1221 41.4052 31.0355 41.3882 30.9482 41.3886H22.5402C22.3641 41.3886 22.1951 41.4589 22.0705 41.584C21.946 41.7092 21.876 41.8789 21.876 42.0558C21.876 42.2328 21.946 42.4025 22.0705 42.5276C22.1951 42.6528 22.3641 42.7231 22.5402 42.7231H30.9482C31.0355 42.7235 31.1221 42.7065 31.2028 42.6731C31.2836 42.6397 31.357 42.5906 31.4187 42.5285C31.4805 42.4665 31.5294 42.3928 31.5627 42.3116C31.5959 42.2305 31.6128 42.1436 31.6124 42.0558Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M29.2329 45.3228C28.9954 45.8014 28.6297 46.2041 28.177 46.4855C27.7243 46.7669 27.2025 46.916 26.6701 46.916C26.1377 46.916 25.6159 46.7669 25.1632 46.4855C24.7105 46.2041 24.3448 45.8014 24.1073 45.3228C24.068 45.2439 24.0136 45.1735 23.9473 45.1157C23.8809 45.0578 23.8038 45.0137 23.7205 44.9858C23.6371 44.9579 23.5491 44.9468 23.4615 44.953C23.3738 44.9593 23.2883 44.9828 23.2097 45.0223C23.1311 45.0618 23.061 45.1164 23.0035 45.183C22.9459 45.2497 22.902 45.3271 22.8742 45.4108C22.8464 45.4946 22.8353 45.583 22.8415 45.671C22.8478 45.7591 22.8712 45.845 22.9105 45.9239C23.2573 46.6257 23.7923 47.2163 24.4552 47.6291C25.1181 48.042 25.8826 48.2607 26.6626 48.2607C27.4426 48.2607 28.2071 48.042 28.87 47.6291C29.533 47.2163 30.068 46.6257 30.4148 45.9239C30.4541 45.845 30.4775 45.7591 30.4837 45.671C30.4899 45.583 30.4789 45.4946 30.4511 45.4108C30.4233 45.3271 30.3794 45.2497 30.3218 45.183C30.2642 45.1164 30.1941 45.0618 30.1156 45.0223C30.037 44.9828 29.9514 44.9593 29.8638 44.953C29.7761 44.9468 29.6881 44.9579 29.6048 44.9858C29.5214 45.0137 29.4443 45.0578 29.378 45.1157C29.3116 45.1735 29.2572 45.2439 29.2179 45.3228H29.2329Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M18.8322 11.3758C18.9115 11.4064 18.9956 11.4227 19.0806 11.4239C19.2134 11.4237 19.3432 11.3835 19.453 11.3085C19.5629 11.2335 19.6479 11.1271 19.6969 11.0031C20.1506 9.86752 20.8725 8.85985 21.8004 8.0671C22.7283 7.27434 23.8343 6.7203 25.023 6.45278C25.1952 6.41293 25.3446 6.30599 25.4383 6.1555C25.532 6.00501 25.5623 5.82329 25.5226 5.65032C25.483 5.47735 25.3765 5.32729 25.2267 5.23316C25.0769 5.13903 24.896 5.10854 24.7237 5.14839C23.3241 5.46285 22.0218 6.11517 20.9295 7.04889C19.8373 7.98262 18.988 9.16962 18.4552 10.5072C18.4228 10.589 18.4069 10.6765 18.4083 10.7646C18.4097 10.8527 18.4285 10.9396 18.4636 11.0204C18.4986 11.1011 18.5492 11.1741 18.6125 11.2351C18.6758 11.2961 18.7505 11.3439 18.8322 11.3758Z" fill="#080A12"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="about-values-icon-4" width="60" height="56" viewBox="0 0 60 56"><g><path d="M45.4677 21.1403C45.3967 21.1399 45.3263 21.1537 45.2606 21.1807C45.195 21.2077 45.1353 21.2475 45.0851 21.2977C45.0349 21.3479 44.9951 21.4076 44.968 21.4733C44.941 21.539 44.9273 21.6094 44.9276 21.6804V53.3092C44.927 53.6069 44.8082 53.8922 44.5975 54.1025C44.3868 54.3128 44.1012 54.4309 43.8036 54.4309H2.19941C1.90171 54.4309 1.61618 54.3128 1.40545 54.1025C1.19472 53.8922 1.076 53.6069 1.07535 53.3092V2.24077C1.076 1.94308 1.19472 1.6578 1.40545 1.44753C1.61618 1.23725 1.90171 1.11917 2.19941 1.11917H43.8036C44.1012 1.11917 44.3868 1.23725 44.5975 1.44753C44.8082 1.6578 44.927 1.94308 44.9276 2.24077V7.35005C44.9276 7.4933 44.9845 7.6307 45.0858 7.73199C45.1871 7.83328 45.3245 7.89017 45.4677 7.89017C45.611 7.89017 45.7483 7.83328 45.8496 7.73199C45.9509 7.6307 46.0078 7.4933 46.0078 7.35005V2.24077C46.0072 1.65636 45.7748 1.09607 45.3615 0.682822C44.9483 0.269577 44.388 0.037143 43.8036 0.036499H2.19941C1.61499 0.037143 1.05468 0.269577 0.64144 0.682822C0.228195 1.09607 -0.00423883 1.65636 -0.00488281 2.24077V53.3092C-0.00423883 53.8937 0.228195 54.454 0.64144 54.8672C1.05468 55.2804 1.61499 55.5129 2.19941 55.5135H43.8036C44.388 55.5129 44.9483 55.2804 45.3615 54.8672C45.7748 54.454 46.0072 53.8937 46.0078 53.3092V21.6804C46.0082 21.6094 45.9944 21.539 45.9674 21.4733C45.9403 21.4076 45.9006 21.3479 45.8504 21.2977C45.8001 21.2475 45.7405 21.2077 45.6748 21.1807C45.6091 21.1537 45.5387 21.1399 45.4677 21.1403Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M38.4895 11.6905C38.4899 11.6195 38.4761 11.5491 38.4491 11.4834C38.4221 11.4178 38.3823 11.3581 38.3321 11.3079C38.2818 11.2577 38.2222 11.2179 38.1565 11.1909C38.0908 11.1638 38.0205 11.1501 37.9494 11.1504H8.05769C7.91445 11.1504 7.77707 11.2073 7.67577 11.3086C7.57448 11.4099 7.51758 11.5473 7.51758 11.6905C7.51758 11.8338 7.57448 11.9712 7.67577 12.0724C7.77707 12.1737 7.91445 12.2307 8.05769 12.2307H37.9421C38.0138 12.232 38.0849 12.2189 38.1514 12.1923C38.218 12.1657 38.2785 12.1261 38.3295 12.0758C38.3805 12.0255 38.4209 11.9655 38.4484 11.8993C38.4759 11.8332 38.4899 11.7622 38.4895 11.6905Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M31.4825 19.7267C31.4829 19.6557 31.4691 19.5853 31.4421 19.5196C31.415 19.454 31.3753 19.3943 31.3251 19.3441C31.2748 19.2938 31.2152 19.2541 31.1495 19.227C31.0838 19.2 31.0134 19.1863 30.9424 19.1866H8.05769C7.91445 19.1866 7.77707 19.2435 7.67577 19.3448C7.57448 19.4461 7.51758 19.5835 7.51758 19.7267C7.51758 19.87 7.57448 20.0074 7.67577 20.1086C7.77707 20.2099 7.91445 20.2669 8.05769 20.2669H30.9424C31.0134 20.2672 31.0838 20.2534 31.1495 20.2264C31.2152 20.1993 31.2748 20.1596 31.3251 20.1094C31.3753 20.0591 31.415 19.9995 31.4421 19.9338C31.4691 19.8681 31.4829 19.7977 31.4825 19.7267Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M22.9963 27.2227H8.0577C7.91445 27.2227 7.77707 27.2796 7.67577 27.3809C7.57448 27.4822 7.51758 27.6196 7.51758 27.7629C7.51758 27.9061 7.57448 28.0435 7.67577 28.1448C7.77707 28.2461 7.91445 28.303 8.0577 28.303H22.9963C23.1395 28.303 23.2769 28.2461 23.3782 28.1448C23.4795 28.0435 23.5364 27.9061 23.5364 27.7629C23.5364 27.6196 23.4795 27.4822 23.3782 27.3809C23.2769 27.2796 23.1395 27.2227 22.9963 27.2227Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M37.9425 36.3391C38.0857 36.3391 38.2231 36.2822 38.3244 36.1809C38.4257 36.0796 38.4826 35.9423 38.4826 35.799C38.4826 35.6558 38.4257 35.5184 38.3244 35.4171C38.2231 35.3158 38.0857 35.2589 37.9425 35.2589H32.2979C32.1547 35.2589 32.0173 35.3158 31.916 35.4171C31.8147 35.5184 31.7578 35.6558 31.7578 35.799C31.7578 35.9423 31.8147 36.0796 31.916 36.1809C32.0173 36.2822 32.1547 36.3391 32.2979 36.3391H37.9425Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M8.0577 36.3391H19.4928C19.636 36.3391 19.7734 36.2822 19.8747 36.1809C19.976 36.0796 20.0329 35.9423 20.0329 35.799C20.0329 35.6558 19.976 35.5184 19.8747 35.4171C19.7734 35.3158 19.636 35.2589 19.4928 35.2589H8.0577C7.91445 35.2589 7.77707 35.3158 7.67577 35.4171C7.57448 35.5184 7.51758 35.6558 7.51758 35.799C7.51758 35.9423 7.57448 36.0796 7.67577 36.1809C7.77707 36.2822 7.91445 36.3391 8.0577 36.3391Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M7.53028 43.8376C7.52996 43.9086 7.54372 43.979 7.57075 44.0447C7.59777 44.1104 7.63754 44.17 7.68776 44.2202C7.73798 44.2705 7.79765 44.3102 7.86333 44.3373C7.92901 44.3643 7.99938 44.3781 8.0704 44.3777H37.9427C38.08 44.3685 38.2086 44.3075 38.3026 44.207C38.3966 44.1065 38.4489 43.974 38.4489 43.8364C38.4489 43.6988 38.3966 43.5663 38.3026 43.4658C38.2086 43.3653 38.08 43.3043 37.9427 43.295H8.05823C7.91668 43.2982 7.78205 43.3569 7.68331 43.4584C7.58456 43.5598 7.52961 43.696 7.53028 43.8376Z" fill="#080A12"/> <path d="M60.0001 2.97798C59.9999 2.38865 59.825 1.81261 59.4975 1.32267C59.17 0.83273 58.7046 0.450889 58.1601 0.225391C57.6156 -0.000106864 57.0165 -0.0591404 56.4385 0.0557767C55.8605 0.170694 55.3295 0.454384 54.9127 0.871001L53.2948 2.49138L28.0233 27.7604C27.4693 28.3161 27.0077 28.9568 26.6559 29.6582L23.7145 35.5582C23.6726 35.6407 23.6527 35.7326 23.6568 35.8251C23.6608 35.9175 23.6886 36.0073 23.7376 36.0858C23.7865 36.1644 23.8549 36.229 23.9361 36.2733C24.0173 36.3177 24.1085 36.3404 24.2011 36.3391C24.2853 36.3386 24.3684 36.3195 24.4444 36.2832L30.3419 33.3417C31.0454 32.9912 31.6872 32.5285 32.2421 31.9719L57.5111 6.7029L59.1291 5.08496C59.4064 4.80882 59.6262 4.48041 59.7757 4.11874C59.9252 3.75707 60.0015 3.36933 60.0001 2.97798ZM29.8553 32.3734L25.403 34.5947L27.6243 30.1423C27.8178 29.7661 28.0493 29.4106 28.3153 29.0815L30.9161 31.6873C30.5872 31.952 30.2317 32.1819 29.8553 32.3734ZM31.7214 30.9598L29.0451 28.2835L53.6767 3.63487L56.353 6.31116L31.7214 30.9598ZM58.3627 4.32099L57.1267 5.55694L54.4504 2.88065L55.6864 1.64471C56.0507 1.34094 56.5153 1.1844 56.9891 1.2058C57.4629 1.22721 57.9116 1.42501 58.247 1.76038C58.5824 2.09576 58.7802 2.54445 58.8016 3.01825C58.823 3.49206 58.6665 3.95674 58.3627 4.32099Z" fill="#080A12"/></g></symbol> <symbol id="padlock" viewBox="0 0 1792 1792"><path d="M640 768h512v-192q0-106-75-181t-181-75-181 75-75 181v192zm832 96v576q0 40-28 68t-68 28h-960q-40 0-68-28t-28-68v-576q0-40 28-68t68-28h32v-192q0-184 132-316t316-132 316 132 132 316v192h32q40 0 68 28t28 68z"/></symbol> <symbol id="envelope-open-outline" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M11.99 0l-11.99 8.723v15.277h24v-15.277l-12.01-8.723zm.001 2.472l9.793 7.113-6.735 4.588-3.049-2.47-3.049 2.471-6.737-4.589 9.777-7.113zm-9.991 9.386l5.329 3.63-5.329 4.318v-7.948zm.474 10.142l9.526-7.723 9.526 7.723h-19.052zm19.526-2.194l-5.329-4.317 5.329-3.631v7.948z"/></symbol> <symbol id="settings" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M24 13.616v-3.232c-1.651-.587-2.694-.752-3.219-2.019v-.001c-.527-1.271.1-2.134.847-3.707l-2.285-2.285c-1.561.742-2.433 1.375-3.707.847h-.001c-1.269-.526-1.435-1.576-2.019-3.219h-3.232c-.582 1.635-.749 2.692-2.019 3.219h-.001c-1.271.528-2.132-.098-3.707-.847l-2.285 2.285c.745 1.568 1.375 2.434.847 3.707-.527 1.271-1.584 1.438-3.219 2.02v3.232c1.632.58 2.692.749 3.219 2.019.53 1.282-.114 2.166-.847 3.707l2.285 2.286c1.562-.743 2.434-1.375 3.707-.847h.001c1.27.526 1.436 1.579 2.019 3.219h3.232c.582-1.636.75-2.69 2.027-3.222h.001c1.262-.524 2.12.101 3.698.851l2.285-2.286c-.744-1.563-1.375-2.433-.848-3.706.527-1.271 1.588-1.44 3.221-2.021zm-12 2.384c-2.209 0-4-1.791-4-4s1.791-4 4-4 4 1.791 4 4-1.791 4-4 4z"/></symbol> <symbol id="envelope-open-solid" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M.026 24l11.974-11.607 11.974 11.607h-23.948zm11.964-23.961l-11.99 8.725v12.476l7.352-7.127-5.653-4.113 10.291-7.488 10.309 7.488-5.655 4.108 7.356 7.132v-12.476l-12.01-8.725z"/></symbol> <symbol id="info" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 2c5.514 0 10 4.486 10 10s-4.486 10-10 10-10-4.486-10-10 4.486-10 10-10zm0-2c-6.627 0-12 5.373-12 12s5.373 12 12 12 12-5.373 12-12-5.373-12-12-12zm-.001 5.75c.69 0 1.251.56 1.251 1.25s-.561 1.25-1.251 1.25-1.249-.56-1.249-1.25.559-1.25 1.249-1.25zm2.001 12.25h-4v-1c.484-.179 1-.201 1-.735v-4.467c0-.534-.516-.618-1-.797v-1h3v6.265c0 .535.517.558 1 .735v.999z"/></symbol> <symbol id="shopping-bag" viewBox="0 0 16 16"><path d="M11.8124 7.875V4.5C11.8124 3.75408 11.5161 3.03871 10.9887 2.51126C10.4612 1.98382 9.74585 1.6875 8.99993 1.6875C8.25401 1.6875 7.53864 1.98382 7.01119 2.51126C6.48374 3.03871 6.18743 3.75408 6.18743 4.5V7.875M14.7044 6.38025L15.6517 15.3802C15.7042 15.879 15.3142 16.3125 14.8124 16.3125H3.18743C3.06908 16.3126 2.95204 16.2879 2.84389 16.2398C2.73574 16.1917 2.63891 16.1215 2.5597 16.0336C2.48048 15.9456 2.42064 15.842 2.38407 15.7295C2.3475 15.6169 2.33501 15.4979 2.34743 15.3802L3.29543 6.38025C3.3173 6.17292 3.41515 5.98103 3.57012 5.84157C3.72508 5.70211 3.9262 5.62496 4.13468 5.625H13.8652C14.2972 5.625 14.6594 5.95125 14.7044 6.38025ZM6.46868 7.875C6.46868 7.94959 6.43905 8.02113 6.3863 8.07387C6.33356 8.12662 6.26202 8.15625 6.18743 8.15625C6.11284 8.15625 6.0413 8.12662 5.98855 8.07387C5.93581 8.02113 5.90618 7.94959 5.90618 7.875C5.90618 7.80041 5.93581 7.72887 5.98855 7.67613C6.0413 7.62338 6.11284 7.59375 6.18743 7.59375C6.26202 7.59375 6.33356 7.62338 6.3863 7.67613C6.43905 7.72887 6.46868 7.80041 6.46868 7.875ZM12.0937 7.875C12.0937 7.94959 12.064 8.02113 12.0113 8.07387C11.9586 8.12662 11.887 8.15625 11.8124 8.15625C11.7378 8.15625 11.6663 8.12662 11.6136 8.07387C11.5608 8.02113 11.5312 7.94959 11.5312 7.875C11.5312 7.80041 11.5608 7.72887 11.6136 7.67613C11.6663 7.62338 11.7378 7.59375 11.8124 7.59375C11.887 7.59375 11.9586 7.62338 12.0113 7.67613C12.064 7.72887 12.0937 7.80041 12.0937 7.875Z" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round"/></symbol> <symbol id="share-arrow" width="18" height="18" viewBox="0 0 18 18"><path d="M11.1992 0.900391C11.1992 0.624248 11.4231 0.400391 11.6992 0.400391H17.0992C17.3754 0.400391 17.5992 0.624248 17.5992 0.900391V6.30039C17.5992 6.57653 17.3754 6.80039 17.0992 6.80039C16.8231 6.80039 16.5992 6.57653 16.5992 6.30039V2.10964L8.45512 10.2537C8.25985 10.449 7.94327 10.449 7.74801 10.2537C7.55275 10.0585 7.55275 9.7419 7.74801 9.54664L15.8943 1.40039H11.6992C11.4231 1.40039 11.1992 1.17653 11.1992 0.900391Z"/> <path d="M0.699219 3.35192C0.699219 1.88741 1.88644 0.700195 3.35094 0.700195H6.0406C6.31674 0.700195 6.5406 0.924053 6.5406 1.2002C6.5406 1.47634 6.31674 1.7002 6.0406 1.7002H3.35094C2.43872 1.7002 1.69922 2.4397 1.69922 3.35192V14.6485C1.69922 15.5607 2.43872 16.3002 3.35094 16.3002H14.6475C15.5597 16.3002 16.2992 15.5607 16.2992 14.6485V11.9588C16.2992 11.6827 16.5231 11.4588 16.7992 11.4588C17.0754 11.4588 17.2992 11.6827 17.2992 11.9588V14.6485C17.2992 16.113 16.112 17.3002 14.6475 17.3002H3.35094C1.88644 17.3002 0.699219 16.113 0.699219 14.6485V3.35192Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="change-arrow" width="8" height="6" viewBox="0 0 8 6"><path d="M4 0L7.4641 6H0.535898L4 0Z"/></symbol> <symbol id="chart" width="24" height="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M4.75 6.75C4.75 5.64543 5.64543 4.75 6.75 4.75H17.25C18.3546 4.75 19.25 5.64543 19.25 6.75V17.25C19.25 18.3546 18.3546 19.25 17.25 19.25H6.75C5.64543 19.25 4.75 18.3546 4.75 17.25V6.75Z" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round"/> <path d="M8.75 15.25V9.75" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round"/> <path d="M15.25 15.25V9.75" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round"/> <path d="M12 15.25V12.75" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round"/></symbol></svg> <svg class="c-globalSvgs c-SiteSvgsNoAmp" data-v-60affc28=""><symbol id="loading-spinner" viewBox="0 0 100 100"><path d="M15 50A35 35 0 0 0 85 50A35 36.8 0 0 1 15 50" fill="#3f8eff" stroke="none"><animateTransform attributeName="transform" type="rotate" dur="1s" repeatCount="indefinite" keyTimes="0;1" values="0 50 50.9;360 50 50.9" data-v-60affc28=""/></path></symbol></svg> <div class="c-adDisplay_container c-adDisplay_container_interstitial blank" data-v-60affc28></div> <div class="c-adSkyBox" data-v-60affc28><div><span class="c-adSkyBox_hideButton u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-flexbox-alignCenter u-text-center">X</span> <div class="c-adDisplay_container c-adDisplay_container_nav-ad-plus-leader blank"></div></div></div>  <div class="c-layoutDefault_page" data-v-60affc28><header role="banner" class="large-header" data-v-60affc28><div class="c-siteHeader"><nav class="c-siteHeaderNavigation g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="md:u-col-1 lg:u-col-3 header-link-tracking-taggy"><a href="/" title="ZDNET" class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo nuxt-link-active"><div class="c-siteLogo c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-vertical"><svg class="c-siteLogo_image c-siteLogo_image-header c-siteLogo_image-color-text"><use xlink:href="#logo"/></svg></div> <div class="c-siteLogo c-siteHeaderNavigation_logo-horizontal"><svg class="c-siteLogo_image c-siteLogo_image-header c-siteLogo_image-color-text"><use xlink:href="#logo-horizontal"/></svg></div></a></div> <div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_shelves md:u-col-5 lg:u-col-9"><div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_topicShelf"><div section="Trending" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="trending-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Trending</span></span> </button>  <div id="trending-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/early-black-friday-2024-everything-you-need-to-know-about-holiday-shopping/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Black Friday 2024: Everything you need to know about holiday shopping</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday deals overall 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-black-friday-tv-deals-11-18-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday TV deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-walmart-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday Walmart deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-amazon-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday Amazon deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-target-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday Target deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-sams-club-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday Sam's Club deals 2024</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-black-friday-soundbar-and-speaker-deals/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday soundbar deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-phone-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday phone deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-phone-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday AirPods deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-apple-watch-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday Apple Watch deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-gaming-pc-deals-11-19-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday gaming PC deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-black-friday-nintendo-switch-deals-11-19-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday Nintendo deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-laptop-deals-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Black Friday laptop deals 2024</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/one-of-the-best-cheap-soundbars-ive-tested-performs-as-well-as-models-twice-its-price-and-its-on-sale/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE is $80 off ahead of Black Friday</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/kitchen-household/i-tested-a-luxury-nugget-ice-maker-and-its-totally-worth-it-and-its-on-sale-for-black-friday/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>GE Opal 2.0 ice maker is $150 off ahead of Black Friday</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/hisense-u8n-black-friday-deal-11-20-2024/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Hisense U8N TV is up to $1,100 off ahead of Black Friday</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/how-to-use-bluesky-social-everything-to-know-about-the-popular-x-alternative/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>How to use Bluesky Social</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/how-to-download-youtube-videos-for-free-2-ways/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>How to download YouTube videos for free</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/zdnet-recommends/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET Recommends</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div><div section="Tech" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="tech-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Tech</span></span> </button>  <div id="tech-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/gaming/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Gaming</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/headphones/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Headphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/laptops/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Laptops</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/mobile-accessories/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Mobile Accessories</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/networking/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Networking</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/pcs/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>PCs</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/printers/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Printers</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/smartphones/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Smartphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/smart-watches/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Smart Watches</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/speakers/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Speakers</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/streaming-devices/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Streaming Devices</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/video-streaming-services/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Streaming Services</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/tablets/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Tablets</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/tvs/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>TVs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/wearables/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Wearables</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/kitchen-household/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Kitchen & Household</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/office-furniture/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Office Furniture</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/office-hardware-appliances/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Office Hardware & Appliances</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/smart-home/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Smart Home</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/smart-lighting/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Smart Lighting</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/yard-outdoors/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Yard & Outdoors</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div><div section="Innovation" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="innovation-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Innovation</span></span> </button>  <div id="innovation-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/artificial-intelligence/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Artificial Intelligence</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/ar-vr/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>AR + VR</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/cloud/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Cloud</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/digital-transformation/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Digital Transformation</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/energy/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Energy</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/robotics/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Robotics</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/sustainability/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Sustainability</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/transportation/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Transportation</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/work-life/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Work Life</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/accelerate-your-tech-game/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Accelerate your tech game <small>Paid Content</small></span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/how-the-new-space-race-will-drive-innovation/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>How the New Space Race Will Drive Innovation</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/how-the-metaverse-will-change-the-future-of-work-and-society/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>How the metaverse will change the future of work and society</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/managing-the-multicloud/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Managing the Multicloud</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-future-of-the-internet/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>The Future of the Internet</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-new-rules-of-work/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>The New Rules of Work</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-tech-trends-to-watch-in-2023/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>The Tech Trends to Watch in 2023</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div><div section="Business" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="business-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Business</span></span> </button>  <div id="business-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/business/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>See all Business</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/amazon/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Amazon</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/apple/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Apple</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/developer/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Developer</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/e-commerce/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>E-Commerce</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/edge-computing/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Edge Computing</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/enterprise-software/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Enterprise Software</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/executive/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Executive</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/google/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Google</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/microsoft/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Microsoft</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/professional-development/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Professional Development</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/social-media/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Social Media</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/smb/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>SMB</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/windows/" aria-current="page" class="c-siteMenuList_link nuxt-link-exact-active nuxt-link-active"><span>Windows</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/how-ai-is-transforming-organizations-everywhere/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>How AI is transforming organizations everywhere</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-intersection-of-generative-ai-and-engineering/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>The intersection of generative AI and engineering</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/software-development-emerging-trends-and-changing-roles/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Software development: Emerging trends and changing roles</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div><div section="Security" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="security-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Security</span></span> </button>  <div id="security-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/security/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>See all Security</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/cyber-threats/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Cyber Threats</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/password-manager/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Password Manager</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/ransomware/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Ransomware</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/vpn/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>VPN</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/cybersecurity-lets-get-tactical/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Cybersecurity: Let's get tactical</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/cybersecurity-lets-get-tactical/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Securing the Cloud</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div><div section="Advice" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="advice-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Advice</span></span> </button>  <div id="advice-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/deals/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Deals</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/how-to/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>How-to</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/product-comparisons/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Product Comparisons</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/product-spotlights/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Product Spotlights</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/reviews/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Reviews</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div><div section="Buying Guides" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-topic c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="buying-guides-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item"><span class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_text"><span>Buying Guides</span></span> </button>  <div id="buying-guides-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/best-products/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>See all Buying Guides</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-samsung-phone/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Samsung phones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-android-phone/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best Android phones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-smart-ring/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best smart rings</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-blood-pressure-watch/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best blood pressure watches</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-headphones-for-sleeping/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best headphones for sleeping</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/kitchen-household/best-robot-vacuum-mop/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best robot vacuum mops</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-web-hosting/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best web hosting services</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-travel-vpn/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best travel VPNs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-vpn/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best VPNs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-ai-image-generator/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best AI image generators</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-ai-chatbot/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best AI chatbots</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-75-inch-tv/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best 75-inch TVs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-phone/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best smartphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-iphone/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best iPhones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-magsafe-battery/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best MagSafe battery packs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-smart-notebook/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best digital notebooks</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-tv-antenna/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best TV antennas</span> </a></span></li> <li class="c-siteMenuList_divider"></li></ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-tv/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best TVs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-laptop/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best laptops</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-tablet/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best tablets</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-smartwatch/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best smartwatches</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/article/best-headphones/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best headphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-live-tv-streaming-service/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Best live TV streaming services</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div></div> <div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_buttonShelf"><span class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_sloganWrapper g-text-xxsmall-bold"><a href="/about/" class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_slogan"><span><span>tomorrow</span> <span>belongs to those who embrace it</span> <span>today</span></span></a></span> <div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_item"><div section="Editions" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-edition c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="editions-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemLink c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon"> <svg aria-label="Editions" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_globeIcon"><use xlink:href="#globe" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></button>  <div id="editions-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-small"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.fr/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET France</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.de/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET Germany</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.co.kr/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET Korea</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://japan.zdnet.com/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET Japan</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div></div> <div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_item"><div section="Search" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="search-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemLink c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon"> <svg aria-label="Search" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_magIcon"><use xlink:href="#mag" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></button>  <div id="search-menu" class="c-searchBar c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav-search"><div class="g-grid-container u-grid-columns c-searchBar-grid"><div class="sm:u-col-hide md:u-col-hide lg:u-col-3"></div> <div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-9"><div id="c-searchAutosuggest" class="c-searchAutosuggest"><div role="combobox" aria-expanded="false" aria-haspopup="listbox" aria-owns="c-searchAutosuggest-c-searchAutosuggest__results"><input type="text" autocomplete="off" aria-autocomplete="list" aria-activedescendant aria-controls="c-searchAutosuggest-c-searchAutosuggest__results" id="c-searchAutosuggest_input" placeholder="What are you looking for?" name="search" value class="c-searchAutosuggest_input"></div><button type="submit"><span class="search-go">Go</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-thin" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></button> <div id="c-searchAutosuggest-c-searchAutosuggest__results" class="c-searchAutosuggest__results-container"> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div>  <div role="dialog" aria-label="Popup to register or sign in to your ZDNET account" class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_item c-siteHeaderNavigation-login"><div title="Join / Log In" class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_loginButton header-link-tracking-taggy"><svg><use xlink:href="#user" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></div></div> <div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_item c-siteHeaderNavigation_item-more"><div section="More" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu-more c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="more-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemLink c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon"> <svg aria-label="More" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_menuIcon"><use xlink:href="#menu" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></button>  <div id="more-menu" data-item="navMenu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"><div class="c-siteMenuList g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-3"></div> <ul class="c-siteMenuList_column c-siteMenuList_column-size-large"> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>See all Topics</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/finance/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Finance</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/education/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Education</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/topic/health/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Health</span> </a></span></li> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/?filter=special-features" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Special Features</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/in-depth/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET In Depth</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/zdnet-recommends/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>ZDNET Recommends</span> </a></span></li> </ul><ul class="c-siteMenuList_column"><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/newsletters/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Newsletters</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/video/" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Videos</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteMenuList_item"><span><a href="/editorial-guidelines/" rel="follow" class="c-siteMenuList_link"><span>Editorial Guidelines</span> </a></span></li> </ul></div></div></div></div> <div class="c-siteHeaderNavigation_item c-siteHeaderNavigation_item-accordion"><div section="Accordion" aria-haspopup="true" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu header-link-tracking-taggy c-sitePrimaryMenu_accordion c-sitePrimaryMenu_hasSubNav"><button type="button" aria-controls="accordion-menu" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_item c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemLink c-sitePrimaryMenu_itemIcon"> <svg aria-label="Accordion" class="c-sitePrimaryMenu_menuIcon"><use xlink:href="#menu" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></button>  <div id="accordion-menu" class="c-siteAccordionMenu c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav"> <div class="c-siteAccordionMenu_content"><div role="button" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton"><svg><use xlink:href="#close" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></div> <ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Trending</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/early-black-friday-2024-everything-you-need-to-know-about-holiday-shopping/" rel="follow" aria-label="Black Friday 2024: Everything you need to know about holiday shopping" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Black Friday 2024: Everything you need to know about holiday shopping</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday deals overall 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday deals overall 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-black-friday-tv-deals-11-18-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday TV deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday TV deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-walmart-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday Walmart deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday Walmart deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-amazon-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday Amazon deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday Amazon deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-target-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday Target deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday Target deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/best-black-friday-sams-club-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday Sam's Club deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday Sam's Club deals 2024</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-black-friday-soundbar-and-speaker-deals/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday soundbar deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday soundbar deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-phone-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday phone deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday phone deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-phone-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday AirPods deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday AirPods deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-apple-watch-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday Apple Watch deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday Apple Watch deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-gaming-pc-deals-11-19-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday gaming PC deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday gaming PC deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-black-friday-nintendo-switch-deals-11-19-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday Nintendo deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday Nintendo deals 2024</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-black-friday-laptop-deals-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Black Friday laptop deals 2024" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Black Friday laptop deals 2024</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/one-of-the-best-cheap-soundbars-ive-tested-performs-as-well-as-models-twice-its-price-and-its-on-sale/" rel="follow" aria-label="Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE is $80 off ahead of Black Friday" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE is $80 off ahead of Black Friday</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/kitchen-household/i-tested-a-luxury-nugget-ice-maker-and-its-totally-worth-it-and-its-on-sale-for-black-friday/" rel="follow" aria-label="GE Opal 2.0 ice maker is $150 off ahead of Black Friday" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>GE Opal 2.0 ice maker is $150 off ahead of Black Friday</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/hisense-u8n-black-friday-deal-11-20-2024/" rel="follow" aria-label="Hisense U8N TV is up to $1,100 off ahead of Black Friday" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Hisense U8N TV is up to $1,100 off ahead of Black Friday</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/how-to-use-bluesky-social-everything-to-know-about-the-popular-x-alternative/" rel="follow" aria-label="How to use Bluesky Social" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>How to use Bluesky Social</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/how-to-download-youtube-videos-for-free-2-ways/" rel="follow" aria-label="How to download YouTube videos for free" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>How to download YouTube videos for free</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/zdnet-recommends/" rel="follow" aria-label="ZDNET Recommends" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>ZDNET Recommends</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Tech</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/gaming/" aria-label="Gaming" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Gaming</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/headphones/" aria-label="Headphones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Headphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/laptops/" aria-label="Laptops" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Laptops</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/mobile-accessories/" aria-label="Mobile Accessories" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Mobile Accessories</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/networking/" aria-label="Networking" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Networking</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/pcs/" aria-label="PCs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>PCs</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/printers/" aria-label="Printers" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Printers</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/smartphones/" aria-label="Smartphones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Smartphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/smart-watches/" aria-label="Smart Watches" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Smart Watches</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/speakers/" aria-label="Speakers" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Speakers</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/streaming-devices/" aria-label="Streaming Devices" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Streaming Devices</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/video-streaming-services/" aria-label="Streaming Services" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Streaming Services</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/tablets/" aria-label="Tablets" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Tablets</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/tvs/" aria-label="TVs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>TVs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/wearables/" aria-label="Wearables" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Wearables</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/kitchen-household/" aria-label="Kitchen & Household" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Kitchen & Household</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/office-furniture/" aria-label="Office Furniture" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Office Furniture</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/office-hardware-appliances/" aria-label="Office Hardware & Appliances" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Office Hardware & Appliances</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/smart-home/" aria-label="Smart Home" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Smart Home</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/smart-lighting/" aria-label="Smart Lighting" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Smart Lighting</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/yard-outdoors/" aria-label="Yard & Outdoors" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Yard & Outdoors</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Innovation</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/artificial-intelligence/" aria-label="Artificial Intelligence" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Artificial Intelligence</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/ar-vr/" aria-label="AR + VR" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>AR + VR</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/cloud/" aria-label="Cloud" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Cloud</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/digital-transformation/" aria-label="Digital Transformation" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Digital Transformation</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/energy/" aria-label="Energy" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Energy</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/robotics/" aria-label="Robotics" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Robotics</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/sustainability/" aria-label="Sustainability" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Sustainability</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/transportation/" aria-label="Transportation" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Transportation</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/work-life/" aria-label="Work Life" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Work Life</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/accelerate-your-tech-game/" rel="follow" aria-label="Accelerate your tech game <small>Paid Content</small>" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Accelerate your tech game <small>Paid Content</small></span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/how-the-new-space-race-will-drive-innovation/" rel="follow" aria-label="How the New Space Race Will Drive Innovation" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>How the New Space Race Will Drive Innovation</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/how-the-metaverse-will-change-the-future-of-work-and-society/" rel="follow" aria-label="How the metaverse will change the future of work and society" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>How the metaverse will change the future of work and society</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/managing-the-multicloud/" rel="follow" aria-label="Managing the Multicloud" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Managing the Multicloud</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-future-of-the-internet/" rel="follow" aria-label="The Future of the Internet" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>The Future of the Internet</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-new-rules-of-work/" rel="follow" aria-label="The New Rules of Work" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>The New Rules of Work</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-tech-trends-to-watch-in-2023/" rel="follow" aria-label="The Tech Trends to Watch in 2023" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>The Tech Trends to Watch in 2023</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Business</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/business/" aria-label="See all Business" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>See all Business</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/amazon/" aria-label="Amazon" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Amazon</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/apple/" aria-label="Apple" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Apple</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/developer/" aria-label="Developer" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Developer</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/e-commerce/" aria-label="E-Commerce" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>E-Commerce</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/edge-computing/" aria-label="Edge Computing" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Edge Computing</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/enterprise-software/" aria-label="Enterprise Software" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Enterprise Software</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/executive/" aria-label="Executive" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Executive</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/google/" aria-label="Google" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Google</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/microsoft/" aria-label="Microsoft" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Microsoft</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/professional-development/" aria-label="Professional Development" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Professional Development</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/social-media/" aria-label="Social Media" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Social Media</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/smb/" aria-label="SMB" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>SMB</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/windows/" aria-current="page" aria-label="Windows" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link nuxt-link-exact-active nuxt-link-active"><span>Windows</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/how-ai-is-transforming-organizations-everywhere/" rel="follow" aria-label="How AI is transforming organizations everywhere" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>How AI is transforming organizations everywhere</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/the-intersection-of-generative-ai-and-engineering/" rel="follow" aria-label="The intersection of generative AI and engineering" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>The intersection of generative AI and engineering</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/software-development-emerging-trends-and-changing-roles/" rel="follow" aria-label="Software development: Emerging trends and changing roles" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Software development: Emerging trends and changing roles</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Security</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div></div><div></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/security/" aria-label="See all Security" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>See all Security</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/cyber-threats/" aria-label="Cyber Threats" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Cyber Threats</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/password-manager/" aria-label="Password Manager" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Password Manager</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/ransomware/" aria-label="Ransomware" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Ransomware</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/vpn/" aria-label="VPN" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>VPN</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/cybersecurity-lets-get-tactical/" rel="follow" aria-label="Cybersecurity: Let's get tactical" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Cybersecurity: Let's get tactical</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/cybersecurity-lets-get-tactical/" rel="follow" aria-label="Securing the Cloud" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Securing the Cloud</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Advice</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div></div><div></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/deals/" rel="follow" aria-label="Deals" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Deals</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/how-to/" rel="follow" aria-label="How-to" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>How-to</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/product-comparisons/" rel="follow" aria-label="Product Comparisons" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Product Comparisons</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/product-spotlights/" rel="follow" aria-label="Product Spotlights" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Product Spotlights</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/reviews/" rel="follow" aria-label="Reviews" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Reviews</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>Buying Guides</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/best-products/" rel="follow" aria-label="See all Buying Guides" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>See all Buying Guides</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-samsung-phone/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Samsung phones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Samsung phones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-android-phone/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best Android phones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best Android phones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-smart-ring/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best smart rings" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best smart rings</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-blood-pressure-watch/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best blood pressure watches" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best blood pressure watches</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-headphones-for-sleeping/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best headphones for sleeping" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best headphones for sleeping</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/kitchen-household/best-robot-vacuum-mop/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best robot vacuum mops" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best robot vacuum mops</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-web-hosting/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best web hosting services" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best web hosting services</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-travel-vpn/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best travel VPNs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best travel VPNs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-vpn/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best VPNs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best VPNs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-ai-image-generator/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best AI image generators" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best AI image generators</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-ai-chatbot/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best AI chatbots" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best AI chatbots</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-75-inch-tv/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best 75-inch TVs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best 75-inch TVs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-phone/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best smartphones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best smartphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-iphone/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best iPhones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best iPhones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-magsafe-battery/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best MagSafe battery packs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best MagSafe battery packs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-smart-notebook/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best digital notebooks" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best digital notebooks</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-tv-antenna/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best TV antennas" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best TV antennas</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-tv/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best TVs" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best TVs</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-laptop/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best laptops" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best laptops</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-tablet/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best tablets" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best tablets</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-smartwatch/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best smartwatches" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best smartwatches</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/article/best-headphones/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best headphones" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best headphones</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-live-tv-streaming-service/" rel="follow" aria-label="Best live TV streaming services" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Best live TV streaming services</span> </a></span></li></div></ul><ul class="c-siteAccordionMenu_section header-link-tracking-taggy"><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle"><span>More</span> <svg><use xlink:href="#arrow-dropdown" aria-hidden="false"/></svg></li> <div></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/" rel="follow" aria-label="See all Topics" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>See all Topics</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/finance/" aria-label="Finance" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Finance</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/education/" aria-label="Education" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Education</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/topic/health/" aria-label="Health" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Health</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/topic/?filter=special-features" rel="follow" aria-label="Special Features" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Special Features</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/in-depth/" aria-label="ZDNET In Depth" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>ZDNET In Depth</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/zdnet-recommends/" rel="follow" aria-label="ZDNET Recommends" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>ZDNET Recommends</span> </a></span></li></div><div><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/newsletters/" aria-label="Newsletters" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Newsletters</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/video/" aria-label="Videos" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Videos</span> </a></span></li><li class="c-siteAccordionMenu_item"><span><a href="/editorial-guidelines/" rel="follow" aria-label="Editorial Guidelines" class="c-siteAccordionMenu_link"><span>Editorial Guidelines</span> </a></span></li></div></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></nav></div></header> <main data-v-60affc28><div class="c-seamlessListing" data-v-60affc28><div class="c-scrollPercent"><div class="c-scrollPercent" data-v-60affc28><div class="c-pageTopic g-grid-container" data-v-60affc28><header class="c-pageTopic_header"><h1 class="c-sectionHeading c-pageTopic_title">Windows</h1> <div class="c-pageTopic_description">Since 1985, the evolution of Microsoft's flagship operating system has both driven and reflected the development of personal computing.</div></header> <div class="g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"></div><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div section="dynamic-topic-4-story-carousel-product-research" class="c-dynamicCarousel" style="grid-column:span 12;"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal"><h4 class="c-sectionHeading">Product Research</h4> <span class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_subhead g-color-text-meta g-text-xxsmall">Deep-dive, compare, decide</span> <span class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator"></span> <div class="VueCarousel c-listingCarouselHorizontal_desktop g-outer-spacing-bottom-small" style="display:none;"><div class="VueCarousel-wrapper"><div class="VueCarousel-inner" style="transform:translate(0px, 0);transition:0.5s ease transform;ms-flex-preferred-size:5px;webkit-flex-basis:5px;flex-basis:5px;visibility:visible;height:auto;padding-left:falsepx;padding-right:falsepx;"><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/best-mini-pc/" title="The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Placeholder product image alt text" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk/" title="This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday)" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday) </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/pc-makers-take-the-wraps-off-windows-11-se-devices-for-education/" title="PC makers take the wraps off Windows 11 SE devices for education" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows11sepcseducation.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> PC makers take the wraps off Windows 11 SE devices for education </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/microsoft-to-show-how-windows-powers-the-future-of-hybrid-work/" title="Microsoft to show how Windows 'powers the future of hybrid work'" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windowshybridworkevent.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft to show how Windows 'powers the future of hybrid work' </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/everything-microsoft-announced-at-the-october-surface-event/" title="Everything Microsoft announced at the October Surface event" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surface-pro-x-770x433.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Everything Microsoft announced at the October Surface event </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/innocn-40c1r-ultrawide-144hz-monitor-review/" title="Innocn 40C1R ultrawide 144Hz monitor review: Plenty of room and fast refresh rate" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Innocn 40C1R ultrawide 144Hz monitor review: Plenty of room and fast refresh rate </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/acer-swift-edge-laptop-review-the-lightest-4k-oled-laptop-yet/" title="Acer Swift Edge laptop review: The lightest 4K OLED laptop yet" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="replace-this-image.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Acer Swift Edge laptop review: The lightest 4K OLED laptop yet </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/keychron-q5-keyboard-review/" title="Keychron Q5 keyboard review: Greater functionality for a greater price" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="keychron-q5-keyboard-1" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Keychron Q5 keyboard review: Greater functionality for a greater price </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/microsoft-surface-duo-2-review/" title="Microsoft Surface Duo 2 review in progress: Two weeks in and I'm as confused as I am intrigued" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surface-duo-2-5.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft Surface Duo 2 review in progress: Two weeks in and I'm as confused as I am intrigued </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/apple-ruthlessly-mocks-a-windows-laptop-but-which-one-exactly/" title="Apple ruthlessly mocks a Windows laptop (but which one, exactly?)" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="apple-ipad-air-2022.png" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Apple ruthlessly mocks a Windows laptop (but which one, exactly?) </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/accell-thunderbolt-4-docking-station-extreme-convenience-but-best-for-windows-users/" title="Is this the ultimate Windows docking station? Meet the Accell Thunderbolt 4" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Is this the ultimate Windows docking station? Meet the Accell Thunderbolt 4 </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/want-a-touchscreen-macbook-this-portable-monitor-makes-it-possible/" title="Want a touchscreen MacBook? This portable monitor makes it possible" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="espresso-monitor-thinness" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Want a touchscreen MacBook? This portable monitor makes it possible </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/best-surface-pc/" title="Best Surface PCs of 2023: Expert reviewed and compared" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surfacelaptop4rumors.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Best Surface PCs of 2023: Expert reviewed and compared </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/duolingo-review/" title="Duolingo review: Free, fun, easy language learning practice" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="replace-this-image.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Duolingo review: Free, fun, easy language learning practice </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/not-buying-a-new-iphone-this-flash-drive-will-give-your-old-one-a-new-lease-of-life/" title="Not buying a new iPhone? This flash drive will give your old one a new lease on life" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Not buying a new iPhone? This flash drive will give your old one a new lease on life </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/microsoft-introduces-windows-11-se-new-250-surface-laptop-se-for-education-market/" title="Microsoft introduces Windows 11 SE, new $250 Surface Laptop SE for education market" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="win11sestartmenu.png" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft introduces Windows 11 SE, new $250 Surface Laptop SE for education market </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/my-new-must-have-usb-c-accessories-for-mac-and-windows-users-can-support-8k-monitors/" title="My new must-have USB-C accessories for Mac and Windows users can support 8K monitors" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> My new must-have USB-C accessories for Mac and Windows users can support 8K monitors </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-switch-between-your-work-pc-and-personal-laptop-in-one-click/" title="How to switch between your work PC and personal laptop in one click" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to switch between your work PC and personal laptop in one click </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/keychron-k8-pro-mechanical-keyboard-review-mac-layout-wireless-connectivity-via-programmable/" title="Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard review: An affordable trip back to the Mac future" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard review: An affordable trip back to the Mac future </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/windows-and-mac-software-my-11-essential-apps-and-services/" title="Windows and Mac software: My 11 essential apps and services" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Full Power" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Windows and Mac software: My 11 essential apps and services </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/this-sandisk-flash-drive-is-tiny-cheap-and-fast/" title="This SanDisk flash drive is tiny, cheap, and fast" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> This SanDisk flash drive is tiny, cheap, and fast </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/forget-the-macbook-air-this-windows-alternative-weighs-less-and-does-more/" title="Forget the MacBook Air: This Windows alternative weighs less and does more" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="The MSI Prestige 13 Evo open on a red table top." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Forget the MacBook Air: This Windows alternative weighs less and does more </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/xubuntu-is-a-highly-configurable-linux-desktop-that-can-be-tweaked-to-your-hearts-content/" title="Xubuntu is a highly configurable Linux desktop that can be tweaked to your heart's content" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="The default Xubuntu desktop." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Xubuntu is a highly configurable Linux desktop that can be tweaked to your heart's content </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/apples-m1-pro-macbook-pro-is-an-amazing-windows-11-laptop/" title="Apple's M1 Pro MacBook Pro is an amazing Windows 11 laptop" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="parallels-17-header.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Apple's M1 Pro MacBook Pro is an amazing Windows 11 laptop </a></div></div></div></div>  </div> <div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><ul class="g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium"><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/best-mini-pc/" title="The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Placeholder product image alt text" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk/" title="This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday)" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday) </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/pc-makers-take-the-wraps-off-windows-11-se-devices-for-education/" title="PC makers take the wraps off Windows 11 SE devices for education" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows11sepcseducation.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> PC makers take the wraps off Windows 11 SE devices for education </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/microsoft-to-show-how-windows-powers-the-future-of-hybrid-work/" title="Microsoft to show how Windows 'powers the future of hybrid work'" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windowshybridworkevent.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft to show how Windows 'powers the future of hybrid work' </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/everything-microsoft-announced-at-the-october-surface-event/" title="Everything Microsoft announced at the October Surface event" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surface-pro-x-770x433.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Everything Microsoft announced at the October Surface event </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/innocn-40c1r-ultrawide-144hz-monitor-review/" title="Innocn 40C1R ultrawide 144Hz monitor review: Plenty of room and fast refresh rate" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Innocn 40C1R ultrawide 144Hz monitor review: Plenty of room and fast refresh rate </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/acer-swift-edge-laptop-review-the-lightest-4k-oled-laptop-yet/" title="Acer Swift Edge laptop review: The lightest 4K OLED laptop yet" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="replace-this-image.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Acer Swift Edge laptop review: The lightest 4K OLED laptop yet </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/keychron-q5-keyboard-review/" title="Keychron Q5 keyboard review: Greater functionality for a greater price" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="keychron-q5-keyboard-1" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Keychron Q5 keyboard review: Greater functionality for a greater price </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/microsoft-surface-duo-2-review/" title="Microsoft Surface Duo 2 review in progress: Two weeks in and I'm as confused as I am intrigued" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surface-duo-2-5.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft Surface Duo 2 review in progress: Two weeks in and I'm as confused as I am intrigued </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/apple-ruthlessly-mocks-a-windows-laptop-but-which-one-exactly/" title="Apple ruthlessly mocks a Windows laptop (but which one, exactly?)" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="apple-ipad-air-2022.png" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Apple ruthlessly mocks a Windows laptop (but which one, exactly?) </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/accell-thunderbolt-4-docking-station-extreme-convenience-but-best-for-windows-users/" title="Is this the ultimate Windows docking station? Meet the Accell Thunderbolt 4" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Is this the ultimate Windows docking station? Meet the Accell Thunderbolt 4 </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/want-a-touchscreen-macbook-this-portable-monitor-makes-it-possible/" title="Want a touchscreen MacBook? This portable monitor makes it possible" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="espresso-monitor-thinness" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Want a touchscreen MacBook? This portable monitor makes it possible </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/best-surface-pc/" title="Best Surface PCs of 2023: Expert reviewed and compared" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surfacelaptop4rumors.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Best Surface PCs of 2023: Expert reviewed and compared </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/duolingo-review/" title="Duolingo review: Free, fun, easy language learning practice" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="replace-this-image.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Duolingo review: Free, fun, easy language learning practice </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/not-buying-a-new-iphone-this-flash-drive-will-give-your-old-one-a-new-lease-of-life/" title="Not buying a new iPhone? This flash drive will give your old one a new lease on life" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Not buying a new iPhone? This flash drive will give your old one a new lease on life </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/microsoft-introduces-windows-11-se-new-250-surface-laptop-se-for-education-market/" title="Microsoft introduces Windows 11 SE, new $250 Surface Laptop SE for education market" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="win11sestartmenu.png" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft introduces Windows 11 SE, new $250 Surface Laptop SE for education market </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/my-new-must-have-usb-c-accessories-for-mac-and-windows-users-can-support-8k-monitors/" title="My new must-have USB-C accessories for Mac and Windows users can support 8K monitors" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> My new must-have USB-C accessories for Mac and Windows users can support 8K monitors </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-switch-between-your-work-pc-and-personal-laptop-in-one-click/" title="How to switch between your work PC and personal laptop in one click" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to switch between your work PC and personal laptop in one click </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/keychron-k8-pro-mechanical-keyboard-review-mac-layout-wireless-connectivity-via-programmable/" title="Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard review: An affordable trip back to the Mac future" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard review: An affordable trip back to the Mac future </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/windows-and-mac-software-my-11-essential-apps-and-services/" title="Windows and Mac software: My 11 essential apps and services" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Full Power" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Windows and Mac software: My 11 essential apps and services </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/this-sandisk-flash-drive-is-tiny-cheap-and-fast/" title="This SanDisk flash drive is tiny, cheap, and fast" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="GOTRAX 4 electric scooter" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> This SanDisk flash drive is tiny, cheap, and fast </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/forget-the-macbook-air-this-windows-alternative-weighs-less-and-does-more/" title="Forget the MacBook Air: This Windows alternative weighs less and does more" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="The MSI Prestige 13 Evo open on a red table top." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Forget the MacBook Air: This Windows alternative weighs less and does more </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/xubuntu-is-a-highly-configurable-linux-desktop-that-can-be-tweaked-to-your-hearts-content/" title="Xubuntu is a highly configurable Linux desktop that can be tweaked to your heart's content" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="The default Xubuntu desktop." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Xubuntu is a highly configurable Linux desktop that can be tweaked to your heart's content </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/apples-m1-pro-macbook-pro-is-an-amazing-windows-11-laptop/" title="Apple's M1 Pro MacBook Pro is an amazing Windows 11 laptop" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="parallels-17-header.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Apple's M1 Pro MacBook Pro is an amazing Windows 11 laptop </a></div></li></ul></div></div></div></div><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div class="g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-9 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div section="dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-how-to" class="c-dynamicCarousel" style="grid-column:span 9;"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal"><h4 class="c-sectionHeading">How-to Guides</h4> <span class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_subhead g-color-text-meta g-text-xxsmall">Practical tips, tricks, and advice for getting things done</span> <span class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator"></span> <div class="VueCarousel c-listingCarouselHorizontal_desktop g-outer-spacing-bottom-small" style="display:none;"><div class="VueCarousel-wrapper"><div class="VueCarousel-inner" style="transform:translate(0px, 0);transition:0.5s ease transform;ms-flex-preferred-size:6.666666666666667px;webkit-flex-basis:6.666666666666667px;flex-basis:6.666666666666667px;visibility:visible;height:auto;padding-left:falsepx;padding-right:falsepx;"><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell/" title="Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="glowing laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11/" title="How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11 with built-in tools" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Windows 10 and 11" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11 with built-in tools </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions/" title="How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Create a password for your local account" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions) </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/you-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it/" title="You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="escae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc-and-why-youd-want-to/" title="How to change the DNS settings on your Windows PC - and why you'd want to" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="doghomepcgettyimages-1283669159" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to change the DNS settings on your Windows PC - and why you'd want to </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-fix-search-glitches-in-windows/" title="How to fix search glitches in Windows" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to fix search glitches in Windows </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive/" title="How to restore deleted or modified files with the help of OneDrive" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Set up OneDrive" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to restore deleted or modified files with the help of OneDrive </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer/" title="How to jump to Microsoft Edge from Internet Explorer" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to jump to Microsoft Edge from Internet Explorer </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-use-microsoft-launcher-to-access-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone/" title="How to use Microsoft Launcher to access Microsoft apps and services on your Android phone" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to use Microsoft Launcher to access Microsoft apps and services on your Android phone </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-shrink-your-images-with-the-powertoys-image-resizer/" title="How to shrink your images with the PowerToys Image Resizer" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to shrink your images with the PowerToys Image Resizer </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account/" title="How to manage your security questions for a local Windows account" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Update security questions and answers for a local Windows account" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to manage your security questions for a local Windows account </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should/" title="How to use the free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Use predefined templates to easily position multiple windows on the screen" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to use the free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-speed-up-your-old-windows-10-pc-or-mac/" title="How to speed up your old Windows 10 PC or Mac" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="2017-05-1812-40-45.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to speed up your old Windows 10 PC or Mac </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar/" title="How to improve and enhance the Windows 11 Taskbar" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to improve and enhance the Windows 11 Taskbar </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-rename-multiple-files-in-windows-with-powerrename/" title="How to rename multiple files in Windows with PowerRename" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to rename multiple files in Windows with PowerRename </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-require-strong-passwords-on-your-shared-windows-pc/" title="How to require strong passwords on your shared Windows PC" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to require strong passwords on your shared Windows PC </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-screenshot-on-windows/" title="How to take a screenshot on Windows" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="screenshot-00008.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to take a screenshot on Windows </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/for-two-bucks-you-can-finally-give-your-mac-an-incredibly-useful-feature-windows-has-always-had/" title="For $2, you can finally give your Mac an incredibly useful feature Windows has always had" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-34-232x" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> For $2, you can finally give your Mac an incredibly useful feature Windows has always had </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc/" title="How to transfer photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="iphone-13" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to transfer photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/break-up-with-lastpass-how-to-use-icloud-as-a-password-manager-on-windows/" title="Break up with LastPass: How to use iCloud as a password manager on Windows" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Businesswoman with smart phone looking at computer monitor. Young female professional is sitting at desk. She is wearing smart casuals at home office." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Break up with LastPass: How to use iCloud as a password manager on Windows </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-use-the-windows-11-sandbox-as-a-virtual-machine/" title="How to use the Windows 11 Sandbox as a virtual machine" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="replace-this-image.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to use the Windows 11 Sandbox as a virtual machine </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-remap-keys-using-keyboard-manager-in-microsofts-powertoys/" title="How to remap keys using Keyboard Manager in Microsoft's PowerToys" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Woman working on laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to remap keys using Keyboard Manager in Microsoft's PowerToys </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history/" title="How to back up your files in Windows 10 and 11 with File History" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to back up your files in Windows 10 and 11 with File History </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu/" title="How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with a third-party app" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with a third-party app </a></div></div></div></div>  </div> <div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><ul class="g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium"><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell/" title="Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="glowing laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11/" title="How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11 with built-in tools" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Windows 10 and 11" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11 with built-in tools </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions/" title="How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Create a password for your local account" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions) </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/you-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it/" title="You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="escae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc-and-why-youd-want-to/" title="How to change the DNS settings on your Windows PC - and why you'd want to" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="doghomepcgettyimages-1283669159" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to change the DNS settings on your Windows PC - and why you'd want to </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-fix-search-glitches-in-windows/" title="How to fix search glitches in Windows" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to fix search glitches in Windows </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive/" title="How to restore deleted or modified files with the help of OneDrive" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Set up OneDrive" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to restore deleted or modified files with the help of OneDrive </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer/" title="How to jump to Microsoft Edge from Internet Explorer" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to jump to Microsoft Edge from Internet Explorer </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-use-microsoft-launcher-to-access-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone/" title="How to use Microsoft Launcher to access Microsoft apps and services on your Android phone" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to use Microsoft Launcher to access Microsoft apps and services on your Android phone </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-shrink-your-images-with-the-powertoys-image-resizer/" title="How to shrink your images with the PowerToys Image Resizer" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to shrink your images with the PowerToys Image Resizer </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account/" title="How to manage your security questions for a local Windows account" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Update security questions and answers for a local Windows account" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to manage your security questions for a local Windows account </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should/" title="How to use the free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Use predefined templates to easily position multiple windows on the screen" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to use the free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-speed-up-your-old-windows-10-pc-or-mac/" title="How to speed up your old Windows 10 PC or Mac" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="2017-05-1812-40-45.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to speed up your old Windows 10 PC or Mac </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar/" title="How to improve and enhance the Windows 11 Taskbar" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to improve and enhance the Windows 11 Taskbar </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-rename-multiple-files-in-windows-with-powerrename/" title="How to rename multiple files in Windows with PowerRename" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to rename multiple files in Windows with PowerRename </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-require-strong-passwords-on-your-shared-windows-pc/" title="How to require strong passwords on your shared Windows PC" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to require strong passwords on your shared Windows PC </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-screenshot-on-windows/" title="How to take a screenshot on Windows" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="screenshot-00008.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to take a screenshot on Windows </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/for-two-bucks-you-can-finally-give-your-mac-an-incredibly-useful-feature-windows-has-always-had/" title="For $2, you can finally give your Mac an incredibly useful feature Windows has always had" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-34-232x" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> For $2, you can finally give your Mac an incredibly useful feature Windows has always had </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc/" title="How to transfer photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="iphone-13" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to transfer photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/break-up-with-lastpass-how-to-use-icloud-as-a-password-manager-on-windows/" title="Break up with LastPass: How to use iCloud as a password manager on Windows" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Businesswoman with smart phone looking at computer monitor. Young female professional is sitting at desk. She is wearing smart casuals at home office." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Break up with LastPass: How to use iCloud as a password manager on Windows </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-use-the-windows-11-sandbox-as-a-virtual-machine/" title="How to use the Windows 11 Sandbox as a virtual machine" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="replace-this-image.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to use the Windows 11 Sandbox as a virtual machine </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-remap-keys-using-keyboard-manager-in-microsofts-powertoys/" title="How to remap keys using Keyboard Manager in Microsoft's PowerToys" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Woman working on laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to remap keys using Keyboard Manager in Microsoft's PowerToys </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history/" title="How to back up your files in Windows 10 and 11 with File History" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to back up your files in Windows 10 and 11 with File History </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu/" title="How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with a third-party app" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="sample-image-16-9-red.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with a third-party app </a></div></li></ul></div></div></div><div section="dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-analysis" class="c-dynamicCarousel" style="grid-column:span 9;"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal"><h4 class="c-sectionHeading">Analysis & Opinion</h4> <span class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_subhead g-color-text-meta g-text-xxsmall">Explore a fresh perspective</span> <span class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator"></span> <div class="VueCarousel c-listingCarouselHorizontal_desktop g-outer-spacing-bottom-small" style="display:none;"><div class="VueCarousel-wrapper"><div class="VueCarousel-inner" style="transform:translate(0px, 0);transition:0.5s ease transform;ms-flex-preferred-size:6.666666666666667px;webkit-flex-basis:6.666666666666667px;flex-basis:6.666666666666667px;visibility:visible;height:auto;padding-left:falsepx;padding-right:falsepx;"><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/why-you-dont-need-to-pay-for-antivirus-software-anymore/" title="Why you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="virus icon" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Why you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/cant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much/" title="Can't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="money signs" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Can't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much </a></div></div><div tabindex="0" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/why-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that/" title="Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that" tabindex="0" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="TPM chip" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/can-microsoft-recover-from-the-collapse-of-its-surface-business/" title="Can Microsoft recover from the collapse of its Surface business?" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surface-revenue-2014-24" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Can Microsoft recover from the collapse of its Surface business? </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/my-7-favorite-microsoft-powertoys-utilities-that-every-windows-pc-user-should-know/" title="My 7 favorite Microsoft PowerToys: Utilities every Windows PC user should try" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="cat working on a laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> My 7 favorite Microsoft PowerToys: Utilities every Windows PC user should try </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/now-you-can-run-any-windows-app-on-your-chromebook-thanks-to-this-partnership/" title="Now you can run any Windows app on your Chromebook, thanks to this partnership" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Windows running on Chromebooks" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Now you can run any Windows app on your Chromebook, thanks to this partnership </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/why-i-use-multiple-operating-systems-to-get-my-work-done/" title="Why I use multiple operating systems to get my work done" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="wrenches-gettyimages-904428020" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Why I use multiple operating systems to get my work done </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/hate-windows-11-heres-how-to-make-it-work-more-like-windows-10/" title="Hate Windows 11? Here's how to make it work more like Windows 10" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Hate Windows 11? Here's how to make it work more like Windows 10 </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-do-i-recover-data-from-an-old-laptop-if-ive-forgotten-the-password/" title="How to recover data from an old laptop if you've forgotten the password" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to recover data from an old laptop if you've forgotten the password </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/i-demoed-every-new-ai-feature-coming-to-copilot-pcs-and-im-nearly-sold-on-the-hype/" title="I demoed every new AI feature coming to Copilot+ PCs, and I'm nearly sold on the hype" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Copilot+PC" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> I demoed every new AI feature coming to Copilot+ PCs, and I'm nearly sold on the hype </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/what-ever-happened-to-the-free-windows-10-upgrade-offer/" title="What ever happened to the free Windows 10 upgrade offer?" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows-in-reach.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> What ever happened to the free Windows 10 upgrade offer? </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/my-top-5-tools-to-beat-distractions-and-get-more-writing-done-or-any-work-really/" title="My top 5 tools to beat distractions and get more writing done - or any work, really" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="A ball protected by various abstract walls" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> My top 5 tools to beat distractions and get more writing done - or any work, really </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/the-features-i-depend-on-most-with-the-gimp-image-editor/" title="The 5 GIMP features I depend on most when editing images (and how I use them)" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Sample image created with GIMP." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> The 5 GIMP features I depend on most when editing images (and how I use them) </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/heres-why-windows-pcs-are-only-going-to-get-more-annoying/" title="Here's why Windows PCs are only going to get more annoying" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="microsoft-modern-life-strategy-doc" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Here's why Windows PCs are only going to get more annoying </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/windows-11-not-ready-to-upgrade-do-this-instead/" title="Windows 11: Not ready to upgrade? Do this instead" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Microsoft Windows 11 operating system logo seen on the screen of tablet and user pointing at it with stylus" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Windows 11: Not ready to upgrade? Do this instead </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/i-asked-a-best-buy-salesman-for-the-best-windows-laptop-he-had-no-doubts/" title="I asked a Best Buy salesman for the best Windows laptop. He had no doubts" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows-11-laptop.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> I asked a Best Buy salesman for the best Windows laptop. He had no doubts </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/microsoft-said-to-be-ready-to-shake-up-the-windows-update-schedule-again/" title="Microsoft said to be ready to shake up the Windows update schedule. Again" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="newwin11servicingplan" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft said to be ready to shake up the Windows update schedule. Again </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/theres-no-joy-in-windows-laptops-claims-macbook-loving-google-employee/" title="There's no joy in Windows laptops, claims MacBook-loving Google employee" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows 11 screen laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> There's no joy in Windows laptops, claims MacBook-loving Google employee </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/whats-next-for-windows-cloud-integration-ad-and-subscription-powered-devices/" title="What's next for Windows: Sweeping new strategy for cloud, ads, devices?" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="microsoftcloudpcadvertising" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> What's next for Windows: Sweeping new strategy for cloud, ads, devices? </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/does-disk-encryption-slow-down-your-pc/" title="Does disk encryption slow down your PC?" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Digital generated image of data" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Does disk encryption slow down your PC? </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-do-i-keep-two-pcs-in-sync-when-theyre-in-different-locations-ask-zdnet/" title="How do I keep two PCs in sync when they're in different locations? [Ask ZDNet]" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="apps sync to multiple devices" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How do I keep two PCs in sync when they're in different locations? [Ask ZDNet] </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/when-i-reset-my-windows-pc-i-ended-up-with-home-edition-how-do-i-get-my-pro-upgrade-back/" title="You reset your Windows PC and ended up with Home edition. Here's how to get your Pro upgrade back" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="user's head behind screen" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> You reset your Windows PC and ended up with Home edition. Here's how to get your Pro upgrade back </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/how-can-i-keep-my-credit-card-details-from-being-stolen-online-ask-zdnet/" title="How to keep your credit card details from being stolen online" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to keep your credit card details from being stolen online </a></div></div><div tabindex="-1" aria-hidden="true" role="tabpanel" class="VueCarousel-slide"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item"><a href="/article/most-hated-microsoft-windows-releases-a-retrospective/" title="Windows 11, the latest of Microsoft's most hated Windows releases. Too soon?" tabindex="-1" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Windows 11, the latest of Microsoft's most hated Windows releases. Too soon? </a></div></div></div></div>  </div> <div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_mobile g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><ul class="g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium"><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/why-you-dont-need-to-pay-for-antivirus-software-anymore/" title="Why you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="virus icon" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Why you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/cant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much/" title="Can't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="money signs" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Can't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/why-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that/" title="Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="TPM chip" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/can-microsoft-recover-from-the-collapse-of-its-surface-business/" title="Can Microsoft recover from the collapse of its Surface business?" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="surface-revenue-2014-24" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Can Microsoft recover from the collapse of its Surface business? </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/my-7-favorite-microsoft-powertoys-utilities-that-every-windows-pc-user-should-know/" title="My 7 favorite Microsoft PowerToys: Utilities every Windows PC user should try" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="cat working on a laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> My 7 favorite Microsoft PowerToys: Utilities every Windows PC user should try </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/now-you-can-run-any-windows-app-on-your-chromebook-thanks-to-this-partnership/" title="Now you can run any Windows app on your Chromebook, thanks to this partnership" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Windows running on Chromebooks" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Now you can run any Windows app on your Chromebook, thanks to this partnership </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/why-i-use-multiple-operating-systems-to-get-my-work-done/" title="Why I use multiple operating systems to get my work done" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="wrenches-gettyimages-904428020" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Why I use multiple operating systems to get my work done </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/hate-windows-11-heres-how-to-make-it-work-more-like-windows-10/" title="Hate Windows 11? Here's how to make it work more like Windows 10" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Hate Windows 11? Here's how to make it work more like Windows 10 </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-do-i-recover-data-from-an-old-laptop-if-ive-forgotten-the-password/" title="How to recover data from an old laptop if you've forgotten the password" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to recover data from an old laptop if you've forgotten the password </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/i-demoed-every-new-ai-feature-coming-to-copilot-pcs-and-im-nearly-sold-on-the-hype/" title="I demoed every new AI feature coming to Copilot+ PCs, and I'm nearly sold on the hype" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Copilot+PC" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> I demoed every new AI feature coming to Copilot+ PCs, and I'm nearly sold on the hype </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/what-ever-happened-to-the-free-windows-10-upgrade-offer/" title="What ever happened to the free Windows 10 upgrade offer?" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows-in-reach.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> What ever happened to the free Windows 10 upgrade offer? </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/my-top-5-tools-to-beat-distractions-and-get-more-writing-done-or-any-work-really/" title="My top 5 tools to beat distractions and get more writing done - or any work, really" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="A ball protected by various abstract walls" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> My top 5 tools to beat distractions and get more writing done - or any work, really </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/the-features-i-depend-on-most-with-the-gimp-image-editor/" title="The 5 GIMP features I depend on most when editing images (and how I use them)" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Sample image created with GIMP." width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> The 5 GIMP features I depend on most when editing images (and how I use them) </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/heres-why-windows-pcs-are-only-going-to-get-more-annoying/" title="Here's why Windows PCs are only going to get more annoying" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="microsoft-modern-life-strategy-doc" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Here's why Windows PCs are only going to get more annoying </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/windows-11-not-ready-to-upgrade-do-this-instead/" title="Windows 11: Not ready to upgrade? Do this instead" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Microsoft Windows 11 operating system logo seen on the screen of tablet and user pointing at it with stylus" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Windows 11: Not ready to upgrade? Do this instead </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/i-asked-a-best-buy-salesman-for-the-best-windows-laptop-he-had-no-doubts/" title="I asked a Best Buy salesman for the best Windows laptop. He had no doubts" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows-11-laptop.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> I asked a Best Buy salesman for the best Windows laptop. He had no doubts </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/microsoft-said-to-be-ready-to-shake-up-the-windows-update-schedule-again/" title="Microsoft said to be ready to shake up the Windows update schedule. Again" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="newwin11servicingplan" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Microsoft said to be ready to shake up the Windows update schedule. Again </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/theres-no-joy-in-windows-laptops-claims-macbook-loving-google-employee/" title="There's no joy in Windows laptops, claims MacBook-loving Google employee" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="windows 11 screen laptop" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> There's no joy in Windows laptops, claims MacBook-loving Google employee </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/whats-next-for-windows-cloud-integration-ad-and-subscription-powered-devices/" title="What's next for Windows: Sweeping new strategy for cloud, ads, devices?" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="microsoftcloudpcadvertising" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> What's next for Windows: Sweeping new strategy for cloud, ads, devices? </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/does-disk-encryption-slow-down-your-pc/" title="Does disk encryption slow down your PC?" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Digital generated image of data" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Does disk encryption slow down your PC? </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-do-i-keep-two-pcs-in-sync-when-theyre-in-different-locations-ask-zdnet/" title="How do I keep two PCs in sync when they're in different locations? [Ask ZDNet]" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="apps sync to multiple devices" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How do I keep two PCs in sync when they're in different locations? [Ask ZDNet] </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/when-i-reset-my-windows-pc-i-ended-up-with-home-edition-how-do-i-get-my-pro-upgrade-back/" title="You reset your Windows PC and ended up with Home edition. Here's how to get your Pro upgrade back" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="user's head behind screen" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> You reset your Windows PC and ended up with Home edition. Here's how to get your Pro upgrade back </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/how-can-i-keep-my-credit-card-details-from-being-stolen-online-ask-zdnet/" title="How to keep your credit card details from being stolen online" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="Upset man fingers on keyboard" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> How to keep your credit card details from being stolen online </a></div></li><li><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_item g-text-small"><a href="/article/most-hated-microsoft-windows-releases-a-retrospective/" title="Windows 11, the latest of Microsoft's most hated Windows releases. Too soon?" class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_itemLink g-text-bold"><div class="c-listingCarouselHorizontal_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:459/238.5;"> <img src alt="cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg" width="459" height="238.5" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> Windows 11, the latest of Microsoft's most hated Windows releases. Too soon? </a></div></li></ul></div></div></div></div><div class="lg:u-col-3 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div section="dynamic-topic-listing-right-rail-basic-latest" class="c-dynamicListing" style="grid-column:span 3;"><div class="c-listingLatest c-dynamicListing_listing"><h3 class="c-listingLatest_heading c-sectionHeading"> Latest </h3> <div><div class="c-listingLatest_item"><a href="/article/you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how/" class="c-listingLatest_itemLink"> You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how </a> <span class="c-listingLatest_pubDate">20 hours ago</span></div><div class="c-listingLatest_item"><a href="/article/this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk/" class="c-listingLatest_itemLink"> This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday) </a> <span class="c-listingLatest_pubDate">22 hours ago</span></div><div class="c-listingLatest_item"><a href="/article/windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround/" class="c-listingLatest_itemLink"> Windows 11 24H2 hit by a brand new bug, but there's a workaround </a> <span class="c-listingLatest_pubDate">23 hours ago</span></div><div class="c-listingLatest_item"><a href="/article/can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell/" class="c-listingLatest_itemLink"> Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell </a> <span class="c-listingLatest_pubDate">1 day ago</span></div><div class="c-listingLatest_item"><a href="/article/microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how/" class="c-listingLatest_itemLink"> Microsoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how </a> <span class="c-listingLatest_pubDate">4 days ago</span></div> </div></div></div></div></div><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div class="c-featureDynamicAd" style="grid-column:span 12;"><div class="c-adDisplay_container c-adDisplay_container_incontent-ad-plus spaced blank"></div></div></div><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div class="lg:u-col-12 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div section="dynamic-topic-five-story-feature-latest-offset-5" class="c-FiveStoryFeature" style="grid-column:span 12;"><div class="c-listingFiveStory"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_heading g-border-thin-dark-top u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_titleWrapper u-flexbox-column"> </div> </div> <div class="c-listingFiveStory_container u-flexbox-column u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignFlexStart .g-outer-spacing-bottom-medium"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_first-item-container"><a href="/article/you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how/" class="c-listingFiveStory_item u-flexbox c-listingFiveStory_item--first"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:1600/900;"> <img src alt="camera" width="1600" height="900" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> <span class="g-text-small-bold"> You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how </span> <p class="c-listingFiveStory_description g-text-xsmall">What was supposed to be a signature feature of the AI-powered Copilot+ PCs for Windows 11 was delayed after a firestorm of privacy and security complaints. But it's ready for testing now, if you have the right hardware.</p></a></div> <div class="c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container"><a href="/article/this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk/" class="c-listingFiveStory_item u-flexbox c-listingFiveStory_item--additional"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:1200/675;"> <img src alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station" width="1200" height="675" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> <span class="g-text-small-bold"> This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday) </span></a><a href="/article/windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround/" class="c-listingFiveStory_item u-flexbox c-listingFiveStory_item--additional"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:1200/675;"> <img src alt="moody keyboard" width="1200" height="675" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> <span class="g-text-small-bold"> Windows 11 24H2 hit by a brand new bug, but there's a workaround </span></a><a href="/article/can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell/" class="c-listingFiveStory_item u-flexbox c-listingFiveStory_item--additional"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:1200/675;"> <img src alt="glowing laptop" width="1200" height="675" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> <span class="g-text-small-bold"> Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell </span></a><a href="/article/microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how/" class="c-listingFiveStory_item u-flexbox c-listingFiveStory_item--additional"><div class="c-listingFiveStory_image g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:1200/675;"> <img src alt="microsoft sign" width="1200" height="675" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> <span class="g-text-small-bold"> Microsoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how </span></a></div></div></div></div></div><div class="g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="lg:u-col-8 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div section="dynamic-topic-river-alt-latest-offset-10" class="c-featureDefaultListing" style="grid-column:span 8;"> <div element-type="default-listing" class="c-listingDefault"> <div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage c-cmsImage_loaded" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"><source media="(max-width: 767px)" srcset="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/6da3221d0478d1bfbce92f5d0f2e72fec1744083/2024/11/22/62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277/gettyimages-1394240632.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=102&width=196" alt="camera"><source media="(max-width: 1023px)" srcset="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/78dfd0a4fb3392c5a1deee86455d0a04793c8239/2024/11/22/62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277/gettyimages-1394240632.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=234&width=416" alt="camera"><source media="(max-width: 1440px)" srcset="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/d1cc38e6cdca7a8839c8715f5e21010e62a5f118/2024/11/22/62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277/gettyimages-1394240632.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=172&width=306" alt="camera"> <img src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/d1cc38e6cdca7a8839c8715f5e21010e62a5f118/2024/11/22/62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277/gettyimages-1394240632.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=172&width=306" alt="camera" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> What was supposed to be a signature feature of the AI-powered Copilot+ PCs for Windows 11 was delayed after a firestorm of privacy and security complaints. But it's ready for testing now, if you have the right hardware. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">20 hours ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/ed-bott/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Ed Bott </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage c-cmsImage_loaded" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"><source media="(max-width: 767px)" srcset="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/815b72ef07c89076b595dd161a4836816da6a5bf/2024/05/02/f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c/img-9752.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=102&width=196" alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station"><source media="(max-width: 1023px)" srcset="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/6c04a45000a90dcc8ee169d2662e81979fde2ec5/2024/05/02/f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c/img-9752.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=234&width=416" alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station"><source media="(max-width: 1440px)" srcset="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/3e820642c5b142a3e364c130ba3146039d5aab58/2024/05/02/f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c/img-9752.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=172&width=306" alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station"> <img src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/resize/3e820642c5b142a3e364c130ba3146039d5aab58/2024/05/02/f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c/img-9752.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&frame=1&height=172&width=306" alt="Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday) </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> The Baseus Spacemate docking station features a unique upright design that frees up precious desk space and has all the ports. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">22 hours ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/adrian-kingsley-hughes/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Adrian Kingsley-Hughes </a> in <a href="/topic/tech/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Tech </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="moody keyboard" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Windows 11 24H2 hit by a brand new bug, but there's a workaround </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> You can't change the time zone the usual way unless you have admin rights. Here's how to sneak past this glitch. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">23 hours ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="glowing laptop" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Does your PC have a future or is it time to consider retirement options? Here's what to look for. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 day ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/ed-bott/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Ed Bott </a> in <a href="/topic/windows/" aria-current="page" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic nuxt-link-exact-active nuxt-link-active"> Windows </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="microsoft sign" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Microsoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Stung by last summer's CrowdStrike meltdown, which crashed Windows PCs and servers worldwide, Microsoft is rolling out a wide range of security changes to Windows. Here's what to expect over the next year </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">4 days ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/ed-bott/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Ed Bott </a> in <a href="/topic/security/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Security </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/how-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="ladder out of a hole" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/how-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Microsoft has added more roadblocks, but there are workarounds for many models. Here's how you can find out whether your Windows 10 PC can bypass the latest restrictions and safely upgrade to Windows 11 - for free. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">5 days ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/ed-bott/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Ed Bott </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/best-mini-pc/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="Placeholder product image alt text" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/best-mini-pc/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> The best mini PCs you can buy: Expert recommended </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> We tested and researched the best mini PCs from Intel, Apple, and more that pack strong computing features into a small package. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 week ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/adrian-kingsley-hughes/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Adrian Kingsley-Hughes </a> in <a href="/topic/pcs/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> PCs </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/chatgpts-windows-app-is-now-available-to-free-tier-users-heres-what-it-can-do/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="screenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/chatgpts-windows-app-is-now-available-to-free-tier-users-heres-what-it-can-do/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> ChatGPT's Windows app is now available to free-tier users - here's what it can do </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Previously accessible only to ChatGPT subscribers, now free-tier users can chat with the AI directly from Windows 10 or 11 and so, much more. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 week ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/artificial-intelligence/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Artificial Intelligence </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/i-tried-another-way-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions-heres-how-it-works/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="keyboard45gettyimages-1400563623" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/i-tried-another-way-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions-heres-how-it-works/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> I tried another way to bypass Windows 11's installation restrictions - how it works </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> This Rufus alternative will help you sneak past Microsoft's onerous requirements for upgrading a PC to Windows 11. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 week ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/microsoft-releases-windows-11-iso-file-for-arm-but-older-pcs-may-require-extra-effort/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="Windows 11 24H2" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/microsoft-releases-windows-11-iso-file-for-arm-but-older-pcs-may-require-extra-effort/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Microsoft releases Windows 11 ISO file for Arm, but older PCs may require extra effort </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> The ISO lets you install Windows 11 24H2 in a virtual machine or directly on an Arm-based system, though your PC's age will determine how smoothly it goes. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 week ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/microsofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="Windows Update Patch Tuesday" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/microsofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Microsoft's November Patch Tuesday squashes several bugs in Windows 11 24H2 </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Plagued by a host of glitches, the 2024 version of Windows 11 receives some necessary fixes. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 week ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/microsoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="the end" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/microsoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Microsoft tightened its already strict hardware compatibility requirements for Windows 11 upgrades again. The updated Rufus utility can bypass those restrictions for most PCs, but it's the end of the line for an unlucky few. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 week ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/ed-bott/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Ed Bott </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/windows-11-editions-explained-versions-skus-and-home-vs-pro/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="windows-10-skus-thmb.jpg" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/windows-11-editions-explained-versions-skus-and-home-vs-pro/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Windows 11 editions explained: Versions, SKUs, and Home vs. Pro </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> When you buy a new PC, you typically have a choice of only two Windows editions. But other specialized editions are available, and you might stumble across one of them if you look in the right places. Here's what you need to know. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">2 weeks ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/ed-bott/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Ed Bott </a> in <a href="/topic/windows/" aria-current="page" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic nuxt-link-exact-active nuxt-link-active"> Windows </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/the-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="warning label" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/the-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> The Windows 11 24H2 bug list grows again: 10 reasons to avoid this update for now </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Microsoft's official 24H2 update for Windows 11 has been saddled with one bug after another. Here's why you should avoid updating and what you may find if you jump into the new version right now. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">2 weeks ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/watch-out-windows-notepad-users-here-comes-ai/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="mslogosmallscreenshot-2024-11-07-133203" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/watch-out-windows-notepad-users-here-comes-ai/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Watch out, Windows Notepad users: Here comes AI </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Currently available to Windows Insiders in Windows 11, Microsoft's new AI-powered Rewrite feature will help you fine-tune your prose in Notepad. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">2 weeks ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/lance-whitney/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Lance Whitney </a> in <a href="/topic/windows-11/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Windows 11 </a></div></div></div> </div></div> <div class="c-loadMoreButton u-grid-columns"><a href="/topic/windows/2/" class="c-loadMoreButton_link o-button o-button-large o-button-smallRound lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-3 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2 o-button-secondary"><span class="c-loadMoreButton_text">Load More</span> <span class="c-loadMoreButton_svg"><svg><use xlink:href="#rightArrow"/></svg></span></a></div></div></div><div class="lg:u-col-4 md:u-col-6 sm:u-col-2"><div class="c-globalSticky g-outer-spacing-bottom-large" style="grid-column:span 4;"><div class="c-globalSticky_element"><div class="c-adDisplay_container c-adDisplay_container_mpu-bottom blank"></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> <div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:25%;"></div><div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:50%;"></div><div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:75%;"></div><div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:100%;"></div></div> <div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:25%;"></div><div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:50%;"></div><div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:75%;"></div><div class="c-scrollPercent_marker" style="top:100%;"></div></div>  </div></main> <footer class="c-siteFooter g-outer-spacing-top-large g-inner-spacing-bottom-large" data-v-60affc28><div class="c-siteFooter_background"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:3200/1322;"> <img src alt="Footer background image" width="3200" height="1322" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div> <a href="/" aria-label="Go to the home page" class="c-siteFooter_logoLink nuxt-link-active"><svg class="c-siteFooter_logo"><use xlink:href="#logo-horizontal"/></svg> <span class="c-siteFooter_site-name">ZDNET</span></a> <div class="c-siteFooter_container g-grid-container u-grid-columns"><div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-6"><div class="c-siteFooter_logo-connect-grid u-grid-columns"><div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-6"><span class="c-siteFooter_slogan">we equip you to harness the power of disruptive innovation, at work and at home.</span></div></div></div> <div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-6"><div class="c-siteFooter_column-links-grid u-grid-columns"><div class="c-siteFooterColumnLinks c-siteFooterColumnLinks_alpha g-text-small-bold sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-2"><ul><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/topic/" rel="follow">Topics</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/pictures/" rel="follow">Galleries</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/video/">Videos</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="https://www.ziffdavis.com/ztg-privacy-policy/">Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information</a></li></ul></div> <div class="c-siteFooterColumnLinks c-siteFooterColumnLinks_beta g-text-small-bold sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-2"><ul><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/about/">about ZDNET</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/feature/meet-the-team-us/">Meet The Team</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/sitemap/" rel="follow">Sitemap</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/reprints/" rel="follow">Reprint Policy</a></li></ul></div> <div class="c-siteFooterColumnLinks c-siteFooterColumnLinks_charlie g-text-small-bold sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-2"><ul><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><span><div role="button" class="c-siteFooterUserMenu_authLinks">Join</div> | <div role="button" class="c-siteFooterUserMenu_authLinks">Log In</div></span></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="/newsletters/">Newsletters</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="https://zdnet.zendesk.com/hc/en-us">Site Assistance</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="https://info.wrightsmedia.com/zdnet-licensing">Licensing</a></li><li class="c-siteFooter_link"><a href="https://www.ziffdavis.com/accessibility/">Accessibility</a></li></ul></div></div></div> <div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-4"><div class="c-siteFooter_connect-column"><div class="c-siteFooter_social-links-wrapper"><div class="c-socialSharebar"> <ul class="c-socialSharebar_container"><li class="c-socialSharebar_button c-socialSharebar_button-facebook c-socialSharebar_icon"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ZDNET.official" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" aria-label="facebook"><svg class="c-socialSharebar_icon"><use xlink:href="#facebook"/></svg></a></li><li class="c-socialSharebar_button c-socialSharebar_button-twitter c-socialSharebar_icon"><a href="https://www.twitter.com/ZDNET" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" aria-label="twitter"><svg class="c-socialSharebar_icon"><use xlink:href="#twitter"/></svg></a></li><li class="c-socialSharebar_button c-socialSharebar_button-linkedin c-socialSharebar_icon"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/zdnet-com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" aria-label="linkedin"><svg class="c-socialSharebar_icon"><use xlink:href="#linkedin"/></svg></a></li><li class="c-socialSharebar_button c-socialSharebar_button-youtube c-socialSharebar_icon"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr9QWb5RKLfaunjKHJZAdQQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" aria-label="youtube"><svg class="c-socialSharebar_icon"><use xlink:href="#youtube"/></svg></a></li><li class="c-socialSharebar_button c-socialSharebar_button-instagram c-socialSharebar_icon"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/zdnet_official/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" aria-label="instagram"><svg class="c-socialSharebar_icon"><use xlink:href="#instagram"/></svg></a></li><li class="c-socialSharebar_button c-socialSharebar_button-tiktok c-socialSharebar_icon"><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@zdnet_official" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" aria-label="tiktok"><svg class="c-socialSharebar_icon"><use xlink:href="#tiktok"/></svg></a></li></ul>  </div></div></div></div> <div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8"><div class="c-siteFooter_copyright-policies"><div class="sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-6"><span class="c-siteFooterCopyright u-text-center"> © 2024 ZDNET, A Ziff Davis company. All rights reserved. </span> <span class="c-siteFooterPolicies"><a href="https://www.ziffdavis.com/ztg-privacy-policy/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Privacy Policy</a> |  | <div role="button" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</div> | <a href="https://www.zdnet.com/advertise/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Advertise</a> | <a href="https://www.ziffdavis.com/terms-of-use/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Terms of Use</a></span></div></div></div></div></footer></div>  <div class="c-adDisplay_container c-adDisplay_container_video-rectangle blank" data-v-60affc28></div></div></div></div><script>window.__NUXT__=(function(a,b,c,d,e,f,g,h,i,j,k,l,m,n,o,p){k.pageType="topic";k.id="windows";k.queryParams={};k.meta={edition:f,brand:c,contentType:c,datePublished:c,dateUpdated:c,description:c,displayDatePublished:c,displayDateUpdated:c,id:i,image:c,noIndex:d,pageType:c,primaryCollection:c,publishDate:c,section:b,seoMetaDescription:c,seoOgDescription:c,seoOgImage:c,seoOgTitle:c,seoTwitterCard:c,seoTwitterCreator:c,seoTwitterDescription:c,seoTwitterImage:c,seoTwitterImageAlt:c,seoOgImageHeight:c,seoOgImageWidth:c,seoTwitterTitle:c,seoTwitterSite:c,site:c,slug:c,suppressAds:d,tags:[],title:c,titleTag:c,topics:[],type:c,typeName:"content_topic"};k.components=[{id:"windows",meta:{componentName:"topic",componentDisplayName:"Topic",componentType:"Topic"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomposer\u002Fzdnet\u002Fpages\u002Ftopic\u002Fwindows\u002Fweb?&apiKey=f8e83b7d-21fc-457a-b296-9063f404528b"}},item:{annotations:[],contentPlatform:c,author:c,buyingCycle:c,datePublished:c,dateUpdated:c,displayDatePublished:c,displayDateUpdated:c,edition:f,headline:c,id:i,collections:[],image:c,moreAuthors:c,primaryCollection:c,promoImage:c,section:b,slug:c,subType:c,tags:[],title:"Windows",topics:[],typeName:"content_topic",versionId:c,layout:{colspan:12,label:{id:"c5b790da-e000-11e5-bddd-d4ae52e62bcc",name:"grid"},components:[],children:[{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"aaf901bf-dcce-49e8-b541-0427a824e189",familyName:"zdnet_placeholder",typeName:"topic_header",view:c,slug:c,hidden:d}],children:[]},{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[],children:[{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",configuration:{uri:"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Flisting\u002F232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",params:["topic","tag","section","collection","blog"],bender:{id:"232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",typeName:"dynamic_listing",familyName:"listing",brand:e,componentType:"ContentList",fields:c,uri:"\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87\u002Fweb"}},familyName:"listing",typeName:"dynamic_listing",view:"listing_4_item_carousel",hidden:d,slug:"dynamic-topic-4-story-carousel-product-research"}]},{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},children:[{colspan:12,label:{id:"c5b790da-e000-11e5-bddd-d4ae52e62bcc",name:"grid"},children:[{colspan:9,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",configuration:{uri:"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Flisting\u002F49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",params:["topic","tag","section","collection","blog"],bender:{id:"49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",typeName:"dynamic_listing",familyName:"listing",brand:e,componentType:"ContentList",fields:c,uri:"\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32\u002Fweb"}},familyName:"listing",typeName:"dynamic_listing",view:"listing_3_item_carousel",hidden:d,slug:"dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-how-to"},{id:"58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",configuration:{uri:"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Flisting\u002F58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",params:["topic","tag","section","collection","blog"],bender:{id:"58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",typeName:"dynamic_listing",familyName:"listing",brand:e,componentType:"ContentList",fields:c,uri:"\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e\u002Fweb"}},familyName:"listing",typeName:"dynamic_listing",view:"listing_3_item_carousel",hidden:d,slug:"dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-analysis"}]},{colspan:3,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",configuration:{uri:"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Flisting\u002Fddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",params:["topic","tag","section","collection","blog"],bender:{id:"ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",typeName:"dynamic_listing",familyName:"listing",brand:e,componentType:"ContentList",fields:c,uri:"\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002Fddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f\u002Fweb"}},familyName:"listing",typeName:"dynamic_listing",view:"listing_right_rail_basic",hidden:d,slug:"dynamic-topic-listing-right-rail-basic-latest"}]}]},{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},children:[{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"67321c82-3251-4373-a37f-2eb82c23a24c",configuration:{uri:c},familyName:"ad",typeName:"incontent_ad_plus_bottom",view:c,hidden:d,slug:c}]},{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},children:[{colspan:12,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",configuration:{uri:"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Flisting\u002F2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",params:["topic","tag","section","collection","blog"],bender:{id:"2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",typeName:"dynamic_listing",familyName:"listing",brand:e,componentType:"ContentList",fields:c,uri:"\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29\u002Fweb"}},familyName:"listing",typeName:"dynamic_listing",view:"five_story_feature",hidden:d,slug:"dynamic-topic-five-story-feature-latest-offset-5"}]},{colspan:12,label:{id:"c5b790da-e000-11e5-bddd-d4ae52e62bcc",name:"grid"},children:[{colspan:8,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",configuration:{uri:"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Flisting\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",params:["topic","tag","section","collection","blog"],bender:{id:"61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",typeName:"dynamic_listing",familyName:"listing",brand:e,componentType:"ContentList",fields:c,uri:"\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb"}},familyName:"listing",typeName:"dynamic_listing",view:"river_alt",hidden:d,slug:"dynamic-topic-river-alt-latest-offset-10"}]},{colspan:4,label:{id:b,name:b},components:[{id:"f785b6bc-1ccd-47be-8b37-8507783b0bf0",configuration:{uri:c},familyName:"ad",typeName:"scrolling_mpu_bottom",view:c,hidden:d,slug:c}]}]}]}]}]}]}]},viewType:c,description:"Since 1985, the evolution of Microsoft's flagship operating system has both driven and reflected the development of personal computing."}},{id:"232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",meta:{componentName:"232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",componentDisplayName:"Product Research",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87"}},items:[{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-gaming-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E have been through a number of evolutions in terms of form factor, transforming from big, heavy, and quite ugly beige boxes that took up a lot of desk space to something no bigger than a hardback book that packs enough power to handle all but the most demanding of workloads.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESay hello to the mini PC: A PC that's just as comfortable tucked behind a TV, popped on a shelf, or hidden in a cupboard as it is sitting on a desk. These mini PCs pack a punch and have everything that you could want from a modern PC -- and take up the least amount of space possible. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe best power banks: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best mini PC right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've tested and researched the current mini PC offerings on the market, examining specs and paying close attention to user reviews, and my top pick for the best mini PC is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"68d9ad17-5a1c-4592-8643-def928eb2c40\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Whether you want a mini PC for the home, office, or meeting room, this is a solid choice. But I understand that this might not be for everyone, so I've picked a handful more mini PCs, each aimed at a specific use case.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best mini PCs of 2024\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2869633c-add8-4055-9874-55f85096cf8a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to mini PCs, it's hard to beat a mini PC built to the Intel NUC specs. I've owned and tested a number of them myself, and have been very happy with them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith this model, we have a system running a 16-core Core i7 chip that can power up to 3.7 GHz with a built-in Iris Xe GPU. Backing that is 32GB of RAM and 1TB M.2 SSD. That's quite a spec for a system that you can hold in the palm of your hand. As for ports, this system has a multitude of USB ports, along with Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and Ethernet.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs mini PCs go, this one is overkill for most, but if you are looking for a really powerful system that runs whisper-quiet and can be mounted behind a TV or put on a shelf, this is the system for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the price of this system, there aren't a lot of reviews for it, but the ones that have been written by owners are overwhelmingly positive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1360P | Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 1x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Intel\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8","title":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon-mini-pc","filename":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8\u002Fintel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":49519,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:47:42","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:47:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Intel\u002FZDNET","alt":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Intel\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Intel\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-Frequency-i7-1360P-Graphics-4-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB0C778B8P1","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Powerful ~Quiet ~Excellent reviews\" data-dislike=\"~Expensive\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78000d68-5c97-40b9-95c5-77631010cc05\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EJust when you thought this list would only include Windows systems, we've got the Mac Mini. This was one of the original mini PCs, and with the switch to Apple Silicon processors, it has seen a new lease of life.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConsidered at one point the gateway Mac that got people over to MacOS from Windows (because they could replace their Windows PC with the Mac Mini and keep using their existing keyboard, mouse, and monitor with their new Mac), it's now a staple of the Mac lineup, and the perfect choice for those who want a compact system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've owned a few different Mac Mini systems over the years, and I've been more than satisfied by them. They're reliable, well-built, and run cool and quiet. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest downside to this system is upgrading -- bottom line, this Mac will live and die with the same processor, RAM, and storage that it left the factory with. If you want to give it a storage boost, Satechi makes a hub\u002Fstand for it that adds a bunch of ports and a port for an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-m2-ssd\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM.2 SSD\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I'd expect from an Apple product, the reviews are strongly positive, with users reporting that they are happy with the performance and overall reliability of the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApple 2023 Mac mini tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Apple Silicon M2 processor with 8 CPU cores, 10 GPU cores | 8GB RAM | 256GB storage | 2x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jck | MacOS 14 Sonoma\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Apple Mac Mini (2023)\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for those who want a Mac\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Apple\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a","title":"Apple Mac mini desktop, M2 chip","filename":"p.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F07\u002F66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a\u002Fp.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":35783,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-07 10:48:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-07 10:48:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Apple","alt":"Apple Mac mini desktop, M2 chip","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Apple\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"p.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Apple\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver%2F6427500.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver\u002F6427500.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver%2F6427500.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmac-mini&subId1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmac-mini","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmac-mini&subId1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Powerful ~Close to silent ~Excellent Apple build quality\" data-dislike=\"~Runs MacOS (although you can run Windows on it using virtualization) ~Limited upgrade options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fbcf7c40-812b-49b2-b8f7-1337da4ec796\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis is a tiny mini PC that is a cube measuring 72 x 72 x 44.5mm, weighing only 206g. Inside the cube is a 4-core Intel N5105 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128HB M.2 SSD running Windows 10 Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite the tiny size, this mini PC features a handful of USB ports, two HDMI ports, an audio jack, and an Ethernet port. This system has no problems running two 4K@60FPS displays for maximum productivity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd yet given the power, this system is quiet and very energy efficient (using only 10W), making it a great choice for someone who wants a PC for the home, office, or meeting room, or even to drive digital signage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReviewers of this system comment on the performance and overall value of the system, and it's an outstanding system for the price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGMKtec Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 11th Generation Intel N5105 | Intel UHD Graphics | 8GB DDR4 RAM | 128GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, USB-C, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, TF\u002FmicroSD slot, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"GMKtec Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for those who want a truly mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"d9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca","title":"gmktec-mini-pc","filename":"gmktec-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002Fd9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca\u002Fgmktec-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":56667,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:50:59","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:51:05","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"gmktec-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"d9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"gmktec-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Tiny ~Powerful enough to drive two 4K displays\" data-dislike=\"~Not fanless, so may become a little noisy when pushed with heavy workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"49f53d39-1f54-40fc-9b80-19ea978fa6e3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis mini PC has a few features that set it apart from the competition. While dual HDMI isn't all that rare, finding a system with dual Ethernet and dual M.2 slots is, and finding one with a built-in filter to keep dust out of the innards is even rarer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe price of this system makes it a perfect choice for those who want a cheap yet powerful mini PC -- as long as you're not running AAA-title games or other heavy workloads, this system has you covered.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe only con to this system is that it runs the older 12th-gen Intel silicon, but for $300, this is still a system that both holds its own and won't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 12th Generation Intel N200 | Intel UHD Graphics 32EUS | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, 2x Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReviews of this system are strongly positive, with owners praising the power and performance of the system, and how quiet it is in day-to-day use.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Beelink EQ13 Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best budget mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f","title":"beelink-mini-pc","filename":"beelink-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f\u002Fbeelink-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":67398,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:52:30","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:52:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"beelink-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"beelink-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Dual HDMI ~Dual Ethernet ~Dual M.2 slots ~Dust filter to keep the fan and insides clean\" data-dislike=\"~Older, 12th-generation processors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78c885fe-2858-4700-80df-904a0a8908f7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis mini PC describes itself as a gaming system, and with good reason. The combination of AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX and AMD Radeon 680M GPU gives this system a lot of horsepower to tackle a variety of workloads, from work to games.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt also throws away the design rulebook. While most mini PCs are cube-like, this one is an upright tent shape. While that might seem like purely a design choice, it does in fact make opening up the system to carry out upgrades a snap as the side panel is held in place with magnets. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis system features a power dial on the top to switch it between silent mode, auto, and performance, depending on whether you want power or silence. It also includes a multitude of LED lights, which you might love or hate. If you love them, great, if not, there's an app that turns them off for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the lights aside, this is the perfect mini PC for those looking for a gaming system but who don't want to have a huge box on their desk or beside their TV. There's no harder set of people to please than gamers, which is why it's quite reassuring to find strong reviews for this gaming mini PC.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EAMD Ryzen 9 6900HX | AMD Radeon 680M GPU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProThis is a mini PC that breaks a lot of the rules.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"AceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for gamers\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"placeholder-product-image-for-best-lists.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6","title":"acemagician-mini-pc","filename":"ace-magician-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6\u002Face-magician-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":75137,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:55:47","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:55:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"ace-magician-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6","imageAltText":"placeholder-product-image-for-best-lists.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ace-magician-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FACEMAGICIAN-Mini-Gaming-Ryzen-6900HX\u002Fdp\u002FB0D3KWGKRD","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~A mini PC that legitimately describes itself as a gaming system ~Powerful AMD processor and GPU ~Convenient dial for switching between power modes\" data-dislike=\"~Different shape ~LED lights might be annoying\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8e068ed3-abb4-472a-a2c2-1ca8604bcf1d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMini PC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$949\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Core i7-1360P\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32GB DDR4&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2TB M.2 NVMe SSD \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple 2023 Mac Mini\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$499\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple Silicon M2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple Silicon M2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E256GB SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMacOS 14 Sonoma\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGMKtec Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$140\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel N5105&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel UHD Graphics\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E128GB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$299\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel N200\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel UHD Graphics 32EUS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E16GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E500GB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$570\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAMD Ryzen 9 6900HX&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAMD Radeon 680M\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1TB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"65474b26-90c2-4eee-bda5-a005bcbe6f10\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChoose this mini PC…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you want…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea general-purpose mini PC. The Intel NUC PCs continue to be the best all-around mini PCs on the market. Yes, there are better, faster, cheaper systems out there, but these systems have continually impressed me over the years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple 2023 Mac mini\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Eto go with MacOS. The Mac Mini used to be the way that Windows PC users would start to make the transition over to Mac. Nowadays, they are all-purpose desktop computers that are perfect for anyone who doesn't want a portable system, from students to developers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGMKtec Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea truly tiny PC. This is one of the smallest systems I've seen, but it packs quite a punch, hitting well above its size and weight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea mini PC with a difference. This mini PC breaks the mold: not only does it have a special dust filter to keep out debris, it also has 2 Ethernet ports, and two M.2 slots to compliment the two HDMI ports.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea proper mini gaming PC. Here you have a full gaming PC packed into a tiny footprint. Sure, there are going to be desktop systems that are way more powerful than this system, but for the size, you'll be hard-pressed to find anything faster.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right mini PC for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a6b61a7d-64b5-4cc4-bf4a-8cfbff854ee8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn many ways, choosing a mini PC is much like a regular PC. There are all the usual performance, price, and support for all your peripherals to keep in mind. But if you are after a mini PC, then the mini part does come into play, so there is a size issue to bear in mind. The good news is that mini PCs come in a range of sizes, from systems that can fit in the palm of your hand to systems so small you could fit several of them in the palm of your hand.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDo you need a mini PC? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThis is the top question when choosing a mini PC. Do you actually need one, or do you just need a regular PC?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESize\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: This really is the differentiator when it comes to mini PCs. Do you want a PC that's the size of a biscuit tin, or something significantly smaller?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Pretty standard PC consideration here. What do you want your system to do? Do you want to carry out general PC tasks like word processing and spreadsheets and browsing the web, or do you have more specialist needs in mind, such as gaming?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBudget\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Small doesn't always mean cheap, but you can save money by choosing a mini PC that suits your needs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPorts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most mini PCs come with a decent array of ports, but if you need something like two Ethernet ports or a bunch of USB ports, you need to ensure you're getting the right mini PC for you.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"023f67f2-1e4e-4603-921c-efe3f9fdd0e9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThere are a lot of mini PCs on the market from a variety of different vendors, and I've tested and used mini PCs from all the vendors listed here, I've based my selections on my experience using these brands, as well as current model user reviews.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProduct specs and price also come into play, but being able to draw on dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of other people's views allows me to get a broad sense of how well-received a selected mini PC is. I've paid particular attention to reports of performance, stability, how quiet or noisy the PC is, and weeded out many that seemed to have a poor lifespan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat we're left with is the best of the best, in a broad selection of categories that are applicable to mini PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these mini PCs?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e338db83-da68-4ce6-9398-b4683b088f84\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA mini PC is a compact yet fully functional computer that offers many, if not all of, the capabilities of a desktop PC, but is packaged into a smaller form factor. Mini PCs are designed to save space and can be used for a variety of tasks, from basic computing to more demanding applications such as programming or even gaming.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d19732e9-2115-46ee-bd0c-8d50d410ef31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPeople often choose to invest in a mini PC for these reasons:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESpace-saving:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The top benefit of going for a mini PC is that it takes up significantly less space than traditional desktop PCs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPortable\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Mini PCs are lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for users who need computing power on the go.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnergy efficiency:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Most mini PCs consume significantly less power than a similarly-specced desktop system, which can lead to cost savings on electricity.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EQuiet:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Some models are fanless, resulting in quieter operation, and even those that still have a fan are far quieter than a standard desktop system.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the advantages of using a mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cdb4d865-c9ed-437a-969c-f41b27684f88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt depends on the model. Some mini PCs allow for upgrades -- sometimes very easy upgrades -- to components like RAM and storage, while others have fixed configurations.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the whole however, like laptops, mini PCs are better aimed at those situations where you buy the PC with the spec that you need rather than relying on an upgrade down the line.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are mini PCs upgradeable?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1555caca-a976-4e78-b5df-4435662a7042\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EHere are a few mini PCs that didn't make the cut to the main list, but are still worthy of an honorable mention.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative mini PCs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3808163d-6157-443c-b1f4-ebe9afbf1e7f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor $99 you're getting an Intel Celeron N4000 chip, 8GB of RAM, add 128GB of storage, and while this mini PC is definitely not going to win any speed contests, it's perfect for general computing tasks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Bmax B1 Pro\" data-superlative=\"Best budget mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Bmax","imageData":{"id":"0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1","title":"Bmax B1 Pro","filename":"bmax-b1-pro.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002F0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1\u002Fbmax-b1-pro.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":65490,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:02:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:02:15","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Bmax","alt":"Bmax B1 Pro","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Bmax","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"bmax-b1-pro.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Bmax\" data-linktext=\"Best budget alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBmax-B1-Pro-Fanless-Computer\u002Fdp\u002FB0CJBST7XQ","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"bebb6e56-1846-4cb7-a634-5fd147011fcf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENot just a mini PC, this is a mini PC stick. This system is designed to connect directly to a display and offers the most portable PC experience you can get, making it perfect for scenarios like conference rooms and offices, and even setting up specialist IoT setups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC stick\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"MeLE","imageData":{"id":"f4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1","title":"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick","filename":"mele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002Ff4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1\u002Fmele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":262647,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:06:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:06:53","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MeLE","alt":"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"MeLE","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"mele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"MeLE\" data-linktext=\"Best compact alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-16 13:00:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"We tested and researched the best mini PCs from Intel, Apple, and more that pack strong computing features into a small package.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0757cceb-0d2e-41e2-90db-20704d44baa8",image:{id:"593a4419-820a-43ad-8b25-2a8236383d77",filename:"3-gmktec-mini-pc-title.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-08-20 17:45:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Placeholder product image alt text",credits:"Placeholder image",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EAlso, notice the image file name is descriptive. Please don't upload images that have \"screenshot\" or \"image\" or something unknown in the file name. In other words, if the image is of an iPhone 13, make sure the image's file name says iPhone 13. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002F593a4419-820a-43ad-8b25-2a8236383d77\u002F3-gmktec-mini-pc-title.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^PCs",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:"The best mini PCs you can buy: Expert recommended",section:b,slug:"best-mini-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended",topic:{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Describe what's shown in the image.\" data-image-filename=\"img-9752.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat's the deal?\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is currently 24% off on Amazon, selling for $106, down from its regular price of $140.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EZDNET's key takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is regularly priced at $140.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's a well-made, reliable docking station with a space-saving design that allows you to declutter your desk.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt doesn't have Thunderbolt support, and I wish the front LCD panel provided more information.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is no shortage of docking stations on the market, but they all have a common issue: they tend to be large and bulky. The assumption seems to be that everyone has ample desk space to dedicate a significant portion of their real estate to a dock.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gan-charger\u002F\"\u003EThe best GaN chargers you can buy: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat if you want to save space with a docking station or prefer a minimalist setup? Previously, this proved to be a rather ambitious ask until I came across a docking station that bridges both worlds: the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"396f67a7-7510-4c42-948b-3aaed9c410f5\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station combines connectivity with a space-saving form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis streamlined, minimal docking station extends your display across three monitors (in Windows) at a stunning 4K resolution via DisplayPort and HDMI ports.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Baseus","imageData":{"id":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","title":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","filename":"untitled-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002F988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533\u002Funtitled-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":211020,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Baseus","alt":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Baseus","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"untitled-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F02","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Baseus\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBaseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station tech specs\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPorts: 2 x HDMI (4K@60fps max), 2 x DisplayPort (4K@60fps max), USB-C and 2 x USB-A 10Gbps data ports, USB-A 2.0, 100W PD, 1Gbps Ethernet port with support for WOL (Wake On LAN) and PXE (Preboot eXecution Environment), 3.5mm auxiliary jack supporting 24bit\u002F96Hz\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEmbedded LED intelligent digital display\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESupport for three additional displays on Windows (MacOS supports one additional display)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E4.84 x 2.59 x 2.59 inches\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E1.07 pounds\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis dock takes a unique approach by adopting a tower configuration, which builds upwards rather than outwards, thus minimizing its footprint on your desk. To ensure stability and prevent it from toppling over and causing damage and mayhem, it features a detachable magnetic base equipped with a \"nano adhesive\" pad. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis design allows the dock to remain securely anchored to your desk while offering the flexibility to detach it from the base and take it with you. The detachable base is particularly useful for those who appreciate a tidy, space-efficient setup but still require the functionality of a full docking station.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fd063a46-f175-4741-9dd3-ce069ad4a474\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe detachable magnetic base is a clever design element.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Detachable magnetic base\" data-image-filename=\"img-9757.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe dock also features a front display with an at-a-glance operating status for each interface. While this is a nice touch, the information displayed is limited. It would be more useful if the display showed more details, such as connection speeds and power transfer data, to give users a better understanding of the dock's performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-gan-everything-you-need-to-know-about-gallium-nitride-charging-tech\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is GaN? Everything you need to know about gallium nitride-based charging tech\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, a screen lock button is on the top of the dock. You can quickly lock the display by tapping it once on Windows PCs or twice on Macs. This feature is particularly handy for creating instant privacy, ensuring that sensitive information can be swiftly and easily -- albeit rather obviously -- protected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs for the ports, these are what you'd expect from a docking station, offering a selection of USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort, HDMI, and 3.5 mm audio. There's also a fixed 12-inch braided cable -- long enough to be useful but short enough not to be unwieldy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f165c863-fa3b-4f1b-a4ed-7ed95581e9f9\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPorts, ports, ports!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Ports, ports, ports!\" data-image-filename=\"img-9756.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with all Baseus products that I've tested, this is a quality product made to appeal to a broad audience. In my hands-on experience with the device, I found that everything worked as promised on the spec sheets, and the dock is reliable in day-to-day use. I did notice that it got warm under a demanding load, but this only occurred when I was pushing it hard during testing and wasn't hot enough to worry about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e90d8d81-5004-4db3-bf8c-4e51cc881ec2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is normally priced at $140. Overall, this is a solid option for extending your USB-C port while keeping your desk tidy, and given the specs and build quality.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b4f4c6cb-3694-47f1-9d03-e700f2e9a788\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDeals are subject to sell-out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you at\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002F"\u003E ZDNET.com\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"When will these deals expire?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 15:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Baseus Spacemate docking station features a unique upright design that frees up precious desk space and has all the ports.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"bd8931fd-8465-431e-812a-ed9c70e01701",image:{id:"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c",filename:"img-9752.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-05-02 13:15:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station",credits:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002Ff32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\u002Fimg-9752.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday)",topic:{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a7ecc6fa-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Mary Jo Foley",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Mary Jo",lastName:"Foley",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94",filename:"mary-jo-foley.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:57:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94\u002Fmary-jo-foley.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Mary Jo Foley has covered the tech industry for 30 years for a variety of publications, including ZDNET, eWeek, and Baseline. She is the author of Microsoft 2.0: How Microsoft plans to stay relevant in the post-Gates era (John Wiley & Sons, 2008). She also is the co-host of the \"Windows Weekly\" podcast on the TWiT network. \r\n\r\nGot a tip? Send her an email with your rants, rumors, tips, and tattles. Confidentiality guaranteed.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a76016d2-a7cc-4281-a6e5-f7f881a506e8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"windows11sepcseducation.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"windows11sepcseducation.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F01\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"768\" data-image-height=\"507\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast fall, Microsoft announced \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-introduces-windows-11-se-new-250-surface-laptop-se-for-education-market\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 SE\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a version of Windows 11 streamlined for the education market. At that time, the company also debuted the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-introduces-windows-11-se-new-250-surface-laptop-se-for-education-market\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$250 Surface Laptop SE\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, its first device with Windows 11 SE preloaded. Today, Jan. 18, a number of PC makers also went public with their own Windows 11 SE devices, starting as low as $219. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EAmong the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindowsexperience\u002F2021\u002F11\u002F09\u002Fintroducing-windows-11-se-and-devices-to-support-k-8-classrooms\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enew Windows 11 SE devices announced\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer TravelMate Spin B3 laptop: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EAn 11.6-inch device for K-12 students that includes durability enhancements like shock-absorbent bumpers and keys designed to protect against moderate spills. This laptop comes with a choice of Pentium Silver or Celeron, Intel Wi-Fi 6, and reported 10-hour battery life. (There's also a Windows 11 SE-based Acer TravelMate B3.) \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus BR100F:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E A laptop meant for \"students of all ages\" that's been built to be resistant to drops, knocks, and spills. It includes a touchscreen display and pen, a 360-degree hinge, Wi-Fi 6, as well as optional 4G LTE. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDell Latitude 3120 and 3120 2-in-1 for Education:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E These PCs come with 11-inch displays, Intel Celeron Quad-Core and Pentium Quad-Core processors, fast charging, Wi-Fi-6, and scratch-resistant glass (on the 2-in-1). There's also an optional pen. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDynabook E10-S: From Dynabook (formerly Toshiba PC):\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E This 11.6-inch model is \"backpack-safe\" with a reinforced chassis and bumpers, 18-degree hinges, and a spill-resistant keyboard. It comes with a number of ports, including USB-C. (Dynabook also has a Satellite Pro E105 that's powered by Windows 11 SE.) \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHP ProBook Fortis 14-inch G9 Notebook: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E14-inch display, Wi-Fi 6, a starting weight of 3.7 pounds, textured surface for easier gripping, spill-resistant keyboard and molded rubber trim for absorbing shocks, plus reinforced hinges. (HP also has the Pro x360 Fortis 11-inch G9 Notebook that's powered by Windows 11 SE.) \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJP.IK Leap T304: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EStarting at $219, this device is ruggedized; includes an anti-glare display, and is made from sustainably cultivated and recyclable plastic. (There's also the JP.IK Turn T303, starting at $269, that runs Windows 11 SE.) \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003ELenovo 100W, 300w, 500w, and 14w laptops powered by Windows 11 SE. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"58e64049-0a38-4d0c-9457-534ddda5f7be\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"ZDNet Recommends: HP Elite Dragonfly G2 -- Windows 11 Laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"0cee6f9d-fa89-4763-8aa5-57f893427236","filename":"hp-elite-dragonfly-g2-front-right.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F01\u002F03\u002F0cee6f9d-fa89-4763-8aa5-57f893427236\u002Fhp-elite-dragonfly-g2-front-right.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2020-01-03 21:18:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"0cee6f9d-fa89-4763-8aa5-57f893427236","imageFilename":"hp-elite-dragonfly-g2-front-right.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F01\u002F03"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hp.com\u002Fus-en\u002Fshop\u002Fmdp\u002Felitebook--zbook---probook\u002Fhp-elite-dragonfly#!&tab=vao\" data-offerprice=\"1839\" data-offermerchant=\"HP\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.awin1.com\u002Fcread.php?awinmid=7168&awinaffid=423585&clickref=[subid_value]&ued=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hp.com\u002Fus-en\u002Fshop\u002Fmdp\u002Felitebook--zbook---probook\u002Fhp-elite-dragonfly#!&tab=vao\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EMicrosoft officials said there will be more Windows 11 SE devices coming later this year, including models from Fujitsu and Positivo.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-introduces-windows-11-se-new-250-surface-laptop-se-for-education-market\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 SE is a simplified version of Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, customized for the K-12 education market, and is designed to help Microsoft and its partners try to better compete with Chromebooks. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 SE is not the same as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-switching-out-of-windows-10-s-mode-will-be-free-for-all\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 10 in S Mode\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. However, the types of apps Windows 11 SE users can install and run natively will be limited to six categories: Content-filtering apps, test-taking apps, accessibility apps, classroom communication apps, diagnostics\u002Fmanagement\u002Fconnectivity, and supportability apps and browsers. Students won't be able to download things like games, YouTube, etc., on Windows 11 SE by design. It's supposed to be a platform for running a set of apps curated by school IT\u002Fadmins.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-01-18 14:03:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft partners are starting to roll out their Windows 11 SE Chromebook-compete devices, which start as low as $219.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"aa5b64ce-1b0e-4c55-962d-78ef44153c77",image:{id:"a76016d2-a7cc-4281-a6e5-f7f881a506e8",filename:"windows11sepcseducation.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-01-18 13:40:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"windows11sepcseducation.jpg",credits:c,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F01\u002F18\u002Fa76016d2-a7cc-4281-a6e5-f7f881a506e8\u002Fwindows11sepcseducation.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:768,height:507,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"pc-makers-take-the-wraps-off-windows-11-se-devices-for-education",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"PC makers take the wraps off Windows 11 SE devices for education",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"863fe219-de4d-4c2d-9e95-55e19301075a",slug:"education",name:"Education",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a7ecc6fa-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Mary Jo Foley",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Mary Jo",lastName:"Foley",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94",filename:"mary-jo-foley.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:57:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94\u002Fmary-jo-foley.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Mary Jo Foley has covered the tech industry for 30 years for a variety of publications, including ZDNET, eWeek, and Baseline. She is the author of Microsoft 2.0: How Microsoft plans to stay relevant in the post-Gates era (John Wiley & Sons, 2008). She also is the co-host of the \"Windows Weekly\" podcast on the TWiT network. \r\n\r\nGot a tip? Send her an email with your rants, rumors, tips, and tattles. Confidentiality guaranteed.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e67e8a28-1047-43f9-817f-4c0615adc0a8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Credit: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"windowshybridworkevent.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"windowshybridworkevent.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F03\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"2292\" data-image-height=\"982\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is planning a virtual event next month that will provide a glimpse at the future of Windows as a hybrid-work platform. That event, happening April 5, is entitled \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fbusiness\u002Fevent\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows Powers the Future of Hybrid Work\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\", according to the landing page. The 1.5-hour event starts at 8 a.m. PT\u002F11 a.m. ET.\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EHeadlining the event, which is aimed at the commercial customer audience, will be Panos Panay, Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer. In addition to a keynote, Microsoft is expected to provide demos of some future productivity, security and management features coming to Windows and Microsoft 365. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EMicrosoft has been \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fblog\u002F2021\u002F06\u002F24\u002Fwindows-11-the-operating-system-for-hybrid-work-and-learning\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epitching Windows 11 as \"the operating system for hybrid work and learning\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E since June 2021, when Microsoft publicly announced Windows 11. Officials have said that Microsoft's decision to modernize the overall user interface while still maintaining the operating system's \"familiar feel\" would make users more productive. They also played up the security and manageability of Windows 11 as part of that pitch.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"b6ee7c84-a830-40a5-ab8a-986ca7ba484e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"ZDNet Recommends: Surface Pro 8 -- 1TB SSD\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"surface-pro-8-listicle-size.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"22d3d510-6481-4acc-bbe5-df6a90045ebf","filename":"surface-pro-8-listicle-size.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F02\u002F24\u002F22d3d510-6481-4acc-bbe5-df6a90045ebf\u002Fsurface-pro-8-listicle-size.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-02-24 16:36:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"22d3d510-6481-4acc-bbe5-df6a90045ebf","imageFilename":"surface-pro-8-listicle-size.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F02\u002F24"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassoc-redirect.amazon.com\u002Fg\u002Fr\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB09DK45YW2\" data-offerprice=\"1973\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EI don't have any inside information about what Microsoft plans to highlight at the April 5 event. But I have a few guesses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, I would assume we could see a peek of some so-far-undisclosed features coming to the Windows 11 -- both later this year and around October in the all-up Windows 11 22H2 feature update. Given Microsoft's recent focus on tweaking search in Windows 11, perhaps we'll see more on that front.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm also expecting we could see and hear more about some Microsoft 365 services, given that Microsoft increasingly has been integrating its Microsoft 365\u002FOffice 365 subscription services into Windows. (This would be a good time for Microsoft to make a case for why it is requiring not just Windows 11 Home but also \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-pro-may-require-msa-sign-in-internet-connectivity-just-like-the-home-version\u002F#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-pro-may-require-msa-sign-in-internet-connectivity-just-like-the-home-version\u002F%22,%22target%22:%22_blank%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-pro-may-require-msa-sign-in-internet-connectivity-just-like-the-home-version\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 Pro users to sign in with their Microsoft Accounts\u003C\u002Fa\u003E by highlighting the kinds of services users will be able to fully access by doing so. Just saying.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI am betting we hear and see the long-rumored \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-marches-toward-its-one-outlook-rollout\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOne Outlook\" client codenamed \"Monarch\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\" at this event. Last I heard, Microsoft planned to make available its new Outlook mail and calendar release this spring in preview with its Insider testers and ultimately integrate the new Outlook into Windows, starting slowly and maybe as early as this fall. Last I heard, Microsoft plans to gradually replace the built-in Windows Mail and Calendar client with the new Outlook.   \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis also seems like a chance for Microsoft to talk more in-depth about how it is changing its Defender security product for Windows. The \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-defender-coming-soon-to-a-group-of-family-devices-including-phones\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enew Microsoft Defender for Windows security product, which is codenamed \"Gibraltar\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is designed to protect a 'family' group of devices. Microsoft just made a preview of this new security client available to Insiders in the Dev Channel. This new Defender is designed for consumers, but Microsoft seemingly is working to make sure it has consumer versions of its business services, bolstering its claim that there is no longer a clear home\u002Fwork divide in terms of PC use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm not sure whether or not Microsoft might talk a bit more about its Teams consumer plans, too, at this event for the same reasons as I outlined with Defender. The company integrated Teams chat into the taskbar on Windows 11 when it launched last year, hoping to attract consumers to the Teams platform. That effort doesn't seem to have gone much of anywhere so far, but Microsoft has been hiring consumer-industry experts from other companies to try to jumpstart its Teams consumer strategy. In August 2021, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-hires-former-uber-exec-in-effort-to-grow-its-teams-consumer-business\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft hired former Uber Chief Product Officer Manik Gupta\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as Corporate Vice President for Teams Consumer, Skype and GroupMe. And last week, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Ffeed\u002Fupdate\u002Furn:li:activity:6906598672281272320\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft hired Danny Bernstein\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- a 10-year Google veteran who had worked on Google Assistant, Google Search and Google+ -- as Product Lead for Teams Consumer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven this is a business-focused Windows event, I'd expect to hear something about what's next for\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-brings-windows-to-the-cloud-with-windows-365-and-cloud-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E Windows 365 and Cloud PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, as well as what's happening with Endpoint Manager\u002FIntune and System Center on April 5. Microsoft never announced the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-aquila-system-center-operations-manager-in-the-cloud\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecloud-based System Center Operations Manager product \u003C\u002Fa\u003EI heard about a couple of years ago, codenamed \"Aquila.\" Maybe it's coming soon (TM)?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDoes anyone else have any guesses on what we might see on April 5?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-03-15 17:27:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft is planning a virtual event for April 5 that will highlight the future of the Windows platform as a hub for hybrid work.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"a4d27e83-3e7f-4d85-baa6-e649eae8b52c",image:{id:"e67e8a28-1047-43f9-817f-4c0615adc0a8",filename:"windowshybridworkevent.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-03-15 17:22:21",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"windowshybridworkevent.jpg",credits:"Credit: Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F15\u002Fe67e8a28-1047-43f9-817f-4c0615adc0a8\u002Fwindowshybridworkevent.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2292,height:982,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-to-show-how-windows-powers-the-future-of-hybrid-work",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft to show how Windows 'powers the future of hybrid work'",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"109dbc12-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"it-priorities",name:"IT Priorities",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a0de22ce-dbed-419b-9a97-562689032701",username:"kwan2035",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"June",lastName:"Wan",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"4cc4d03e-eeaf-4b0c-bb8a-63d34de6cc51",filename:"1549928918804.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-03 20:04:44",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F03\u002F4cc4d03e-eeaf-4b0c-bb8a-63d34de6cc51\u002F1549928918804.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"June serves as Technology Editor of ZDNET and is based in New York City. He reviews the latest consumer gadgets and shares advice to make the most out of them. When June isn't drooling over the next best thing, he's probably being let down by the Los Angeles Lakers.",profile:c,title:"Technology Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f1ea1170-7907-4f66-b84d-dc797fd63ee7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Surface Holiday Line.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft Surface Holiday Line on cylinders.\" data-image-filename=\"surfaceholiday2022.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F11\" data-image-crop=\"1725x970+84+99\" data-image-width=\"1900\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter months of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-october-12-surface-launch-whats-on-tap\u002F\"\u003Especulation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and more than a year's worth of waiting from antsy Microsoft customers, the 2022 lineup of Surface PCs is official. Microsoft's Chief Product Officer Panos Panay took the virtual stage today to unveil the new \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"1b9bb634-e187-49b3-8366-ddc893d7636f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Laptop-5\u002F8XN49V61S1BN?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Laptop 5\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"f1f1ff14-8236-4de4-8afa-5a791afcae5c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Pro-9\u002F93VKD8NP4FVK\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Pro 9\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"24beccd2-83f4-4857-a584-58116a2a0259\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Studio-2\u002F8VLFQC3597K4?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Studio 2+\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, and two accessories meant to improve the hybrid meeting experience: Microsoft Presenter+ and Microsoft Audio Dock. The company official also broke news on a DALL-E-based \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-takes-aim-again-at-creators-with-its-new-designer-graphic-design-app\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egraphic design app\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the surface, Microsoft has kept its fall lineup of products nearly indistinguishable from its predecessors, retaining the company's vision of sleek, burdenless, and practically designed computers. What's new with this generation of Windows PCs mainly revolves around processing power and modernization -- two aspects that should bring the Surface more in line with the industry's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest systems\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's everything that the company announced during its October event.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-did-microsoft-manage-to-get-it-right-with-surface\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow did Microsoft manage to get it right with Surface?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESurface Laptop 5 gets a splash of color\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ed0ec52a-6b1b-4319-ae82-e0a81024a2f3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 in Sage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"Hand pointing on Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 in Sage.\" data-image-filename=\"surfacelaptop5.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F11\" data-image-crop=\"1900x1067+0+105\" data-image-width=\"1900\" data-image-height=\"1267\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast year, ZDNET reviewed the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-4-13-5-ryzen-7-4980u-16-gb-ram-512-gb-ssd-english\u002F\"\u003ESurface Laptop 4\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and commended the ultraportable for its long-lasting battery life, the dual-tone pairing of stylish metal and fabric, and overall performance that was delivered in a tasteful 3:2 display. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe story mostly remains the same with the new Surface Laptop 5; Microsoft touts \"all-day battery life,\" a familiar anodized aluminum construction, and a 3:2 PixelSense display that comes in 13.5\" and 15\" configurations. We're also seeing the usual suspects of visual and audio enhancements, including Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Atmos 3D spatial processing, and a duet of \"Studio Microphones\" and a front-facing HD camera for virtual collaboration.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's different about the new Surface Laptop starts with the 12th-generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processors that power it. Coming from last year's 11th-gen platform, the Surface Laptop 5 is expected to deliver over 50% more power for your casual or professional needs. (We're not seeing anything on AMD units this time around.) Each model also comes fitted with a Thunderbolt 4 port that will yield a higher bandwidth for data and power transfer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"b1fa88a1-e11e-404b-aaa5-9c5f4bb2c744\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the Surface Laptop 5\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"A seated man is using a Microsoft Surface Laptop","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Courtesy of Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"e2151a24-63f2-4c43-9f07-1e541b2b26a5","filename":"man-using-surface-laptop.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F21\u002Fe2151a24-63f2-4c43-9f07-1e541b2b26a5\u002Fman-using-surface-laptop.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-06-21 15:30:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"e2151a24-63f2-4c43-9f07-1e541b2b26a5","imageFilename":"man-using-surface-laptop.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F06\u002F21"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Courtesy of Microsoft\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Laptop-5\u002F8XN49V61S1BN?\" data-offermerchant=\"Microsoft\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Laptop 5 will be available in select markets beginning on Oct. 25 with a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"44260d19-ebd9-4bb8-8d46-07fff1feeae9\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Laptop-5\u002F8XN49V61S1BN?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"starting price of $999\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E for the i5, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB model. The laptop will be available in classic Platinum, Black, and Sandstone colorways, as well as a new leafy \"Sage\" option. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EGoodbye Surface Pro X, hello Surface Pro 9\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dd3e1110-d1c1-4c7f-81ed-64dc0d85478b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Surface Pro 9 in the Liberty special edition.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Liberty Special Edition on white background.\" data-image-filename=\"surfacepro9libertyspecialedition.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"5209\" data-image-height=\"2930\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig news: Microsoft is doing away with the Surface Pro X line and, instead, unifying it with the regular Pro model. This gives users the option to configure the Surface Pro 9's architecture -- between the latest 12th-gen Intel Core on the Evo platform or Microsoft's ARM-based SQ3 powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon -- without compromising or settling up for a different form factor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Intel-based model comes equipped with Thunderbolt 4 for faster transfer speeds and the ability to connect the Surface Pro 9 to 4K monitors and eGPUs. As for the SQ3 model, it should play well with digital nomads who rely on 5G (or LTE) connectivity to get work done on the go. Microsoft says the Snapdragon version also comes with a host of Windows Studio Effects and AI features, thanks to the new Neural Processing Unit (NPU) within. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsurface-pro-arm-or-x86-the-answers-not-so-simple\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface Pro: Arm or x86? The answer's not so simple\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot-so-big news: The rest is a standard Surface Pro affair;  2-in-1 design with a detachable 13-inch display, 120Hz refresh rate, support for the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"6061c798-6f89-4026-b33f-105ad3254c0e\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSurface-Slim-Pen-Compatible-Touchscreen\u002Fdp\u002FB09DK2YSH2\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Slim Pen 2\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, and an Alcantara keyboard that's just as comfortable to type on as it is to rest your palm on and think about life. All of this shouldn't come as a surprise, though, given how significant of a hardware upgrade the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-8-for-business-review\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface Pro 8\u003C\u002Fa\u003E was to its predecessor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"27b3c16f-f3de-4f68-8b9a-fdd7cc2b725c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 9\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft Surface Pro X 13-inch tablet 2","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"b5fd3adb-b930-49d1-b5d5-0784a6036280","filename":"microsoft-surface-pro-x-13-inch-tablet-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F03\u002Fb5fd3adb-b930-49d1-b5d5-0784a6036280\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-x-13-inch-tablet-2.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-08-03 19:54:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"b5fd3adb-b930-49d1-b5d5-0784a6036280","imageFilename":"microsoft-surface-pro-x-13-inch-tablet-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F08\u002F03"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Pro-9\u002F93VKD8NP4FVK?\" data-offermerchant=\"Microsoft\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs far as pricing goes, the Intel-based Surface Pro 9 starts at \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"a4b40923-e9c8-4a72-83bf-5f5ab5ca4cfe\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Pro-9\u002F93VKD8NP4FVK?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$999\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E (i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB), and the ARM-based model starts at \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b04fe249-88eb-4c8f-b74e-76aa45c0e37e\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Pro-9\u002F93VKD8NP4FVK?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$1,299\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E (SQ3, 8GB RAM, 128GB). The former comes in Platinum, Graphite, Forest, and Sapphire, while the latter only comes in Platinum. Preorders start today. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe aptly-named Surface Studio 2+\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f22c9dac-7aed-410e-8af1-ea8d7cb6ad65\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Studio 2+ looks nearly identical to the Surface Studio 2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"Woman writing on Surface Studio 2+.\" data-image-filename=\"surfacestudio2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F11\" data-image-crop=\"1900x1067+0+123\" data-image-width=\"1900\" data-image-height=\"1267\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's been nearly four years since Microsoft introduced the sequel to one of its most ambitious Surface products, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-studio-2\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface Studio\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. While the company left the smooth-folding, all-in-one (AIO) desktop idle for some time, it's finally introducing a much-needed revamp to satisfy the content creators, graphics designers, and artists that it aimed to please in the first place. You'll be impressed, as long as you weren't expecting the new Studio to look any different. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"5aa83eda-e0af-4090-aa97-df3ed60b2b2a\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Studio-2\u002F8VLFQC3597K4?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Studio 2+\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, as Microsoft strategically dubs it, keeps the same push-and-pull, 28-inch frame as its predecessor, with the Zero Gravity Hinge carrying the weight of the transformative design. The company has modernized some aspects of the new Studio like the sharper front-facing camera, Studio Mics, and USB-C with Thunderbolt 4. To meet the demand of power users, the Studio 2+ leverages an updated Intel Core H-35 processor for \"up to 50% faster CPU performance\" and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 discrete graphics, according to Microsoft's press release. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor all the performance gains that you're getting, Microsoft is making you pay to play. The Surface Studio 2+ \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"faafa871-3f47-4b0d-b25d-0232633e67f7\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Studio-2\u002F8VLFQC3597K4?\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fstore%2Fconfigure%2FSurface-Studio-2%2F8VLFQC3597K4%3F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"starts at $4,499\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E for the Core i7, 32GB RAM, and 1TB model -- peripherals included. That's a whopping $1,000 increase from the original \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"7885fdb3-aa9e-41ab-9f8c-0141e5398e2b\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-studio-2\u002F8SBJXM0M58T4?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Studio 2's $3,499\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E listing price. But for what the computer is, and all the use cases that it presents to digital creators, do you think Microsoft has done enough to justify the price?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"4b16d9cf-301b-4b6b-87e7-1ba0c29ad56e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the Surface Studio 2+\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"microsoft-surface-studio-2-770x433.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"b93b7df2-1013-4ff2-a79e-65711497c60a","filename":"microsoft-surface-studio-2-770x433.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F26\u002Fb93b7df2-1013-4ff2-a79e-65711497c60a\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-studio-2-770x433.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-04-26 07:45:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"b93b7df2-1013-4ff2-a79e-65711497c60a","imageFilename":"microsoft-surface-studio-2-770x433.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F04\u002F26"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002FSurface-Studio-2\u002F8VLFQC3597K4?\" data-offermerchant=\"Microsoft\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMicrosoft Presenter+ and Audio Dock\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ca642ef6-13b5-4382-80f2-5fd7c2a09918\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Microsoft Presenter+.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"Hand holding the Microsoft Presenter+\" data-image-filename=\"presenter.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F11\" data-image-crop=\"1900x1067+0+200\" data-image-width=\"1900\" data-image-height=\"1267\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReleasing alongside the new Surface products are the Microsoft Presenter+ and Microsoft Audio Dock, two accessories that Microsoft says will \"improve the hybrid meeting experience.\" The Presenter+, which costs $79, is a Bluetooth-powered clicker that allows you to skip through slides, mute and unmute during calls, and navigate Microsoft Teams with customizable buttons. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-new-accessories-are-geared-toward-the-hybrid-era-of-work\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft's new accessories are geared toward the hybrid era of work\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Microsoft Audio Dock is both a docking station with four ports (HDMI, 2x USB-C, and USB-A) and a speaker for audio input and output. For $249, which is not cheap for either of its two functions, Microsoft promises \"premium sound\" and noise-reducing microphones that will help you \"be heard clearly in your next online meeting.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMicrosoft Designer takes on Canva\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"98a4bd3c-8e63-44c8-b0f6-70b641994adb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoft-designer-app\" data-image-filename=\"microsoft-designer-app-demo.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"2622\" data-image-height=\"1460\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHardware aside, Microsoft also announced \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-announces-canva-competitor-with-new-designer-app-powered-by-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea new graphic design app, Designer,\u003C\u002Fa\u003E which will be integrated into Microsoft's Office suite of productivity services. The app, available for free to Office subscribers and at a higher cost for more exclusive features, leverages Microsoft's existing AI tech with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fopenais-dall-e-2-may-mean-we-never-need-stock-photos-again\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOpenAI's DALL-E 2\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to smartly (and uniquely) generate images, layouts, and graphics based on users' text description(s). From the examples that Microsoft demoed during the keynote (see image above), Designer looks \u003Cem\u003Every\u003C\u002Fem\u003E promising.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Canva-competing service also allows you to upload existing images -- say, a portrait of your dog or a product that you're selling -- to base the AI-generated design off of. Once finished, the image can be saved and\u002For shared directly on LinkedIn or Instagram.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft officials say that Designer is targeted at consumers more than anyone else, though I wouldn't be surprised to see businesses and professionals pick up the service for its ease of use and effective output. The Designer app is still in its testing phase, but users can now join a waitlist to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdesigner.microsoft.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eaccess the free web preview\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-10-13 14:39:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Fall lineup brings refreshes to Surface favorites, including the Surface Laptop 5, Surface Pro 9, and Surface Studio 2+, in addition to two new accessories for the hybrid work era.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"d06f99ea-a7d1-4df5-8245-8ab3e225d54e",image:{id:"f1ea1170-7907-4f66-b84d-dc797fd63ee7",filename:"surfaceholiday2022.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-10-11 02:37:12",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"surface-pro-x-770x433.jpg",credits:"Image: Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Surface Holiday Line.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F11\u002Ff1ea1170-7907-4f66-b84d-dc797fd63ee7\u002Fsurfaceholiday2022.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:"1693x952+105+117",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1900,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"everything-microsoft-announced-at-the-october-surface-event",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Everything Microsoft announced at the October Surface event",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"116c1d92-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"tablets",name:"Tablets",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"95ca6724-c309-42a2-b946-f359f1127d73",slug:"computers-tech",name:"Computers & Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"98d6f538-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"palmsolo (aka Matthew Miller)",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Matthew",lastName:"Miller",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"ee87d915-3bf6-40cb-8e7f-6112d3b322bc",filename:"matthew-miller.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:28:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fee87d915-3bf6-40cb-8e7f-6112d3b322bc\u002Fmatthew-miller.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Matthew Miller started using mobile devices in 1997 and has been writing news, reviews, and opinion pieces ever since. He was a co-host, with Kevin Tofel, of the MobileTechRoundup podcast for 13 years and authored three Wiley Companion series books. Matthew started using mobile devices with a US Robotics Pilot 1000 and has owned hundreds of devices running Palm, Linux, Symbian, Newton, BlackBerry, iOS, Android, webOS, Windows Mobile, and Windows Phone operating systems. His current collection includes a Galaxy Z Fold 3, COROS Vertix 2, Garmin Fenix 945 LTE, Microsoft Surface Pro 6, and many more, along with classic devices like the Apple Newton MessagePad 2100 and Sony CLIE UX50. Matthew can be found on various social networks under the user name of \"palmsolo.\"",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"95c11e20-7ab9-4c10-8338-e4ac18bec611\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Innocn 40C1R ultrawide gaming monitor\" data-rating=\"4\" data-like=\"~Wide canvas to work with ~High 144Hz refresh rate ~Ample ports for connectivity ~USB-C charges portable devices ~Reasonable price ~Solid hardware design and quality build\" data-dislike=\"~Poor speakers ~Menu buttons require practice\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"07\" data-editorsyear=\"2022\" data-editorsdate=\""2022-07-02T12:42:43.713Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"07\" data-innovationyear=\"2022\" data-innovationdate=\""2022-07-02T12:42:43.713Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"14dbe020-931d-4c85-9b67-3008357bd252","filename":"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F24\u002F14dbe020-931d-4c85-9b67-3008357bd252\u002Finnocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-24 01:38:47","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"14dbe020-931d-4c85-9b67-3008357bd252","imageFilename":"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F24"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FINNOCN-Ultrawide-Monitor-FreeSync-Premium\u002Fdp\u002FB09N3G9T16?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"499.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FINNOCN-Ultrawide-Monitor-FreeSync-Premium\u002Fdp\u002FB09N3G9T16","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FINNOCN-Ultrawide-Monitor-FreeSync-Premium\u002Fdp\u002FB09N3G9T16?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"cbb91236-d793-4c26-9905-cd699abf0515","slug":"innocn-ultrawide-monitor-40-wqhd-3440-x-1440p-144hz-monitor-amd-freesync-premium-hdr400-21-9-computer-monitor-95-dci-p3","name":"INNOCN Ultrawide Monitor 40\\" WQHD 3440 x 1440p 144Hz Monitor AMD FreeSync Premium HDR400 21:9 Computer Monitor 95% DCI-P3 500Nits IPS USB Type-C HDMI Tilt\u002FHeight Adjustable Monitor, Mountable - 40C1R","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"AUTOPID","mod":1667437633253,"displayDate":"Wed Nov 02 2022 21:07:13 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"chart\" data-type=\"GeekboxChart\" data-chart=\"{"chart":[["Display","40-inch, 3440 x 1440 pixels, IPS LCD"],["Refresh rate","144 Hz"],["Aspect ratio","21:9"],["Contrast ratio","1200:1"],["Brightness","500 Nits"],["Ports","DP 1.4, USB-C (90W), HDMI 2.0 (2), 3.5mm audio"],["Weight","12.65 kg (27.9 lbs)"]],"chartName":"Specifications","headingRows":""}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few months ago the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Finnocn-27c1u-4k-computer-monitor\u002F\"\u003EInnocn 27C1U 4K\u003C\u002Fa\u003E computer monitor replaced my standard Dell 24-inch monitor and the colors, clarity, and performance has continued to be impressive. Last month, the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"2812f872-0bba-4098-a80a-691eb0515144\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FINNOCN-Ultrawide-Monitor-FreeSync-Premium\u002Fdp\u002FB09N3G9T16\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Innocn 40C1R ultrawide monitor\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E arrived for testing. It is impressive for gaming, multi-input use, and productivity with multiple apps and tabs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy primary ZDNet writing computer is an older Surface Book while my daily engineering computer is a Surface Pro 6. To connect these computers to the monitor, I simply swap the connection to my Microsoft Surface hub. With these Surface products, I enjoyed using two full size apps side-by-side to get work done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b828b194-b7f4-4b9a-9300-857d0edc1b05\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EHere's an example of working with two browsers open on the wide display\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-1\" data-image-filename=\"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the support for USB-C and my focus on mobile devices, I connected the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsamsung-galaxy-s22-ultra-review\u002F\"\u003ESamsung Galaxy S22 Ultra\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsamsung-dex-everything-you-need-to-make-your-galaxy-phone-a-primary-computing-platform\u002F\"\u003ESamsung DeX\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse for a full PC experience. I also tested out my iPad Pro 12.9 running the public beta of iOS 16.0 that significantly improves the external monitor support.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EHardware\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe retail package is very long so you may want to have two people present for unboxing and setup. The retail box contains the monitor, a power cable, USB-C to USB-C cable, DP cable, color calibration report for the specific monitor in the box, four mount hexagon irons, stand arm, base, and an instruction guide. The two-part stand is composed of a vertical piece that screws securely into the base platform and then snaps into the back of the monitor so that a very sturdy platform for setting the monitor on your desk is provided. You can also mount the monitor on a wall and those specific instructions are provided in the box. Setup was quick and easy so I had everything ready to go in just a few minutes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConnection ports are found on the lower back of the monitor and include one full-size HDMI 2.0 port, DP1.4 port, USB-C PD 90W port, 3.5mm audio jack, and DC power port. With this assortment of ports, I connected my Surface dock to the DP1.4 port, Samsung devices and the iPad to the USB-C port, and my Nintendo Switch to the HDMI port. It was quick and easy to switch between the ports and have the cables I needed available near the base.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3d961bbb-eeb8-4b1c-b2b0-6519502af093\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe 27-inch model on the left looks tiny next to the 40-inch ultrawide monitor on the right\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-4\" data-image-filename=\"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-4.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe monitor is height adjustable with a range of 120mm to match your preferred height. You can pivot the monitor left and right 30 degrees, tilt forward 5 degrees, or tilt backward 15 degrees.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsamsung-dex-everything-you-need-to-make-your-galaxy-phone-a-primary-computing-platform\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung DeX 101: Turn a Galaxy phone or tablet into your primary computer\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EMonitor controls and settings\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPress any button on the lower right corner of the display to access the on-screen display controls. Five buttons are present and working from left to right we find the menu button, down button, up button, exit\u002Fhot key, and power button. The menu button is used to make selections. The up and down buttons move through menu options when in a menu and when no on-screen menu is shown they can be used to quickly turn up or down the brightness levels. The exit\u002Fhot key goes back into the menu system and also lets you quickly switch port settings with no menu on the display.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe on-screen display (OSD) menu options are plentiful on the Innocn 40C1R with settings for game, professional, picture, PIP\u002FPBP, OSD settings, and other settings. Game settings include RTS\u002FRPB mode toggle, FPS arena mode toggle, adaptive sync, refresh rate, and game crosshair options. The monitor is clearly optimized for the gamer and that experience is better than the work experience with the resolution provided.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d75978c7-5be6-4e55-938e-d00ec43ecec3\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThere are a plethora of options available to optimize the monitor for your gaming or work needs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-2\" data-image-filename=\"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProfessional settings include standard mode, sRGB mode, Adobe mode, uniformity mode, gamma, CT settings, sharpness, shadow balance, low blue light, hue, saturation, and dynamic brightness. Picture settings include brightness, contrast, DCR, contextual model, HDR, and aspect ratio.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile you can use PIP with a secondary input device, I preferred using PBP for Samsung DeX on half of the display. There are six available settings for PIP\u002FPBP so explore those if you like using this capability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe OSD settings let you customize three of the hot keys to your preferences so you can set these up for the most common functions that will allow you to control the monitor without diving into the full OSD menu. Hot key options include brightness, contrast, volume, mute, shadow balance, game crosshair, refresh rate, PIP\u002FPBP mode, input signal, dynamic brightness, and HDR.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther settings include input signal, volume, mute, auto power, eyeshield reminder, reset, and information. As you can see, you can fully customize the monitor for your specific needs. The monitor is also intelligent and everything I plugged into it worked perfectly without requiring me to dive into the settings. I did alter some settings to check to see if everything was optimized, but the auto settings were near perfect.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finnocn-pu15-pre-portable-monitor-review-4k-oled-panel-improves-productivity-on-the-road\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInnocn PU15-Pre 4K OLED review: A portable monitor to improve your productivity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EDaily usage experiences and conclusion\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c9b71371-4fd5-4a9d-a471-c2b09713ca6a\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FINNOCN-Ultrawide-Monitor-FreeSync-Premium\u002Fdp\u002FB09N3G9T16\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Innocn 40C1R ultrawide monitor\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is optimized for gaming and after first connecting my Surface computers I was not impressed by the resolution, especially when having the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Finnocn-27c1u-4k-computer-monitor\u002F\"\u003EInnocn 27C1U 4K\u003C\u002Fa\u003E serving as the secondary monitor. The speakers are also pretty terrible so make sure to use another source for audio or plug speakers into the 3.5mm audio port since good sound is important to the gaming experience. Playing games at a high refresh rate with FreeSync support (requires an AMD GPU or APU) is likely the better experience with this wide monitor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a week, my eyes adjusted to the monitor for engineering tasks, document creation, and more as I ran just about everything in a split screen setup with two apps splitting the display. I still prefer the smaller 27C1U for work though. The monitor base is reasonably sized and fitting the wider monitor on my standing desk was perfectly acceptable. I've actually moved the Innocn 40C1R to another standing desk that is serving as a gaming station where the monitor is best used.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESetup was quick and easy, the monitor is well constructed, it has performed flawlessly, and it is reasonably priced at $499.99. I've also seen an $80 coupon appear for the monitor, making it an even more affordable gaming platform.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EAlternatives to consider\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Innocn 40C1R is a solid widescreen monitor, but you may be looking for something else so here are some alternative to consider.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"0529083c-a98f-40d4-8cac-c3e5918f91d1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Innocn 44C1G ultrawide split screen monitor\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"innocn-44c1g-monitor","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThis monitor is optimized for the split-screen experience\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: Amazon","imageData":{"id":"a8bfb9ce-8931-4086-bd23-4e37a5053c59","filename":"innocn-44c1g-monitor.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F24\u002Fa8bfb9ce-8931-4086-bd23-4e37a5053c59\u002Finnocn-44c1g-monitor.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-24 01:45:00","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"a8bfb9ce-8931-4086-bd23-4e37a5053c59","imageFilename":"innocn-44c1g-monitor.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F24"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis monitor is optimized for the split-screen experience\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: Amazon\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FINNOCN-Ultrawide-Monitor-1080p-120Hz\u002Fdp\u002FB09WR3SKR4\u002Fref=sr_1_22?keywords=40+wide&qid=1658621727&s=pc&sr=1-22\" data-offerprice=\"559.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"08653b2a-f166-4506-9eaf-334465f2f751\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"LG 43UN700 43-inch monitor\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lg-43un700-monitor","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EGet work done in several panes on this big monitor\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: Amazon","imageData":{"id":"9ffc7f1d-aed8-421c-93a9-1eb89934cb15","filename":"lg-43un700-monitor.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F24\u002F9ffc7f1d-aed8-421c-93a9-1eb89934cb15\u002Flg-43un700-monitor.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-24 01:46:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"9ffc7f1d-aed8-421c-93a9-1eb89934cb15","imageFilename":"lg-43un700-monitor.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F24"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EGet work done in several panes on this big monitor\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: Amazon\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLG-43UN700-B-Display-Type-C-inputs\u002Fdp\u002FB0821WWXV6\u002Fref=sr_1_13?keywords=40+wide&qid=1658621727&s=pc&sr=1-13\" data-offerprice=\"596.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"81b9305b-f7bb-4aed-b622-53e17ffceccc\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"ViewSonic VX4381 widescreen monitor\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"viewsonic-vx4381-monitor","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EAnother 43-inch monitor, but with higher resolution\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: Amazon","imageData":{"id":"261510da-a6fc-45ab-a741-98d34b099151","filename":"viewsonic-vx4381-monitor.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F24\u002F261510da-a6fc-45ab-a741-98d34b099151\u002Fviewsonic-vx4381-monitor.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-24 01:48:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"261510da-a6fc-45ab-a741-98d34b099151","imageFilename":"viewsonic-vx4381-monitor.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F24"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAnother 43-inch monitor, but with higher resolution\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: Amazon\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FViewSonic-VX4381-4K-Monitor-Widescreen-DisplayPort\u002Fdp\u002FB097J4J1Z7\u002Fref=sr_1_18?keywords=40+wide&qid=1658621727&s=pc&sr=1-18\" data-offerprice=\"679.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-24 13:21:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"If you want a single monitor to help you get work done, the 40-inch ultrawide Innocn 40C1R provides plenty of room for multiple apps and multiple input devices. It's optimized for gaming, but it's also great for productivity.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"05a11ad2-83f6-47ab-9ed7-94cdb69361cd",image:{id:"14dbe020-931d-4c85-9b67-3008357bd252",filename:"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-07-24 01:38:47",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"innocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3",credits:"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EThe 40-inch monitor provides a huge canvas to work with\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F24\u002F14dbe020-931d-4c85-9b67-3008357bd252\u002Finnocn-40c1r-widescreen-monitor-3.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1425,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Home Entertainment^Gaming",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"innocn-40c1r-ultrawide-144hz-monitor-review",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Innocn 40C1R ultrawide 144Hz monitor review: Plenty of room and fast refresh rate",topic:{id:"f07e8684-3ad4-438d-a6b4-0665b9de2f60",slug:"gaming",name:"Gaming",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f07e8684-3ad4-438d-a6b4-0665b9de2f60",slug:"gaming",name:"Gaming",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1136d09c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"samsung",name:"Samsung",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1147b242-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"smartphones",name:"Smartphones",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"59080956-0412-41e5-8eb9-a44ae4f9a8a9",username:"Michael Gariffo",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Michael",lastName:"Gariffo",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"96ef4095-58f9-4a2f-81e3-f21dc8610bf3",filename:"michael-gariffo.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:37:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F96ef4095-58f9-4a2f-81e3-f21dc8610bf3\u002Fmichael-gariffo.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Michael is a veteran technology writer who has been covering business and consumer-focused hardware and software for over a decade. He has published hundreds of whitepapers and thousands of articles on everything from the handheld technology that makes your daily life a little easier to the global infrastructure that powers the entire Internet.",profile:c,title:"Staff Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"9aa3e8a0-2441-42d7-bf17-998894e684f6\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Acer Swift Edge\" data-rating=\"4\" data-like=\"~Gorgeous 4K display with rich colors ~Excellent port selection includes 2 full USB-A slots ~Thinner and lighter than you'd expect from the spec sheet\" data-dislike=\"~Can run quite hot when it's being pushed ~More flex than I'd like in some places ~Battery life is just OK\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"10\" data-editorsyear=\"2022\" data-editorsdate=\""2022-10-02T21:43:12.245Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"10\" data-innovationyear=\"2022\" data-innovationdate=\""2022-10-02T21:43:12.245Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"13323fa2-4251-4eab-afd6-fa0a0eba5a34","filename":"acer-swift-edge-aspect-ratio.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F31\u002F13323fa2-4251-4eab-afd6-fa0a0eba5a34\u002Facer-swift-edge-aspect-ratio.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-10-31 20:31:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"13323fa2-4251-4eab-afd6-fa0a0eba5a34","imageFilename":"acer-swift-edge-aspect-ratio.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F10\u002F31"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002Fsubid_value\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fstore.acer.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fswift-edge-laptop-sfa16-41-r6ys","offerMerchant":"Acer","offerPrice":"1500","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fstore.acer.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fswift-edge-laptop-sfa16-41-r6ys","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002Fsubid_value\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fstore.acer.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fswift-edge-laptop-sfa16-41-r6ys"}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBetween chip shortages, supply chain breakdowns, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ffinance\u002Finflation-what-it-means-for-your-wallet-and-how-it-impacts-your-life\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eongoing inflation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it may seem impossible to find a high-end laptop for under $2,000. Acer's 16-inch Swift Edge model makes a case that it is still possible to buy an ultrabook-class laptop for not only less than $2,000, but \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e6e9ee6d-733a-42ce-9612-32139c32844e\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fstore.acer.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fswift-edge-laptop-sfa16-41-r6ys?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"less than $1,500\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Its thin, light chassis, Ryzen 7 CPU, DDR5 memory, and 4K display all shout \"premium,\" while the price is more than $500 less than a similarly sized and equipped \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMacBook Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pullquote\" data-alignment=\"right\" data-quote=\"The Swift Edge is an excellent, budget-friendly option for the shopper who needs a solid, workhorse laptop, with one of the best 16-inch displays I've seen for under $2,000.\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, this surprisingly low sticker price comes with some concessions you should know about. High-concept design and ultrarigid construction are left behind here in favor of raw power. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe battery life's also shorter than on pricier models. In exchange, you're getting performance that can handle anything you throw at it -- and handled quickly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Foled-vs-led-whats-the-difference-and-is-one-better-than-the-other\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOLED vs LED: What's the difference and is one better than the other?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis review will help you decide if the balance that Acer has struck between performance, build quality, and price makes the Swift Edge the ideal laptop for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"chart\" data-type=\"GeekboxChart\" data-chart=\"{"chart":[["Processor","AMD Ryzen 7 6800U"],["Display","16-inch 3840x2400 OLED panel with a 60Hz refresh rate"],["Memory","16GB DDR5 (up to 32GB available)"],["Storage","1TB Gen 4 NVME SSD"],["Cameras","1080p at 60FPS"],["Battery","54Wh, rated for up to 10.5 hours"],["Ports","2 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (up to 20Gbps with DisplayPort over USB), 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x HDMI 2.1 (HDCP support), 1 combo headphone\u002Fmicrophone jack"],["Connectivity","Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2"],["Weight and dimensions","2.58 lbs&nbsp; | 14.04 x 9.5 x 0.51 inches or 356.7 x 242.3 x 12.95 millimeters\u003Cbr\u003E"]],"chartName":"Specifications","headingRows":""}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBuild quality\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3a3fd64f-6b13-405b-8ea1-2e3a25706855\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe lid is moderately prone to fingerprints in the Olivine Black colorway.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Acer's Swift Edge laptop closed on a desk\" data-image-filename=\"acer-swift-edge-lid.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'd say that build quality is the least impressive aspect of the Swift Edge. While there's no single part of the laptop that's poorly made, the majority of the materials are... serviceable. The outer shell, for example, is entirely metallic, but it's thinner metal than most laptops with such lofty internals, and there's more flex to it than I'd like. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b5552b15-8ab2-4018-8f60-e41de80e0fea\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe inset trackpad rises above the rest of the build a bit to provide a particularly responsive, pleasant experience in a Windows laptop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Acer Swift Edge laptop's keyboard and trackpad\" data-image-filename=\"acer-swift-edge-keyboard.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis theme continues on the keyboard. It provides an average level of typing comfort and feel, with some noticeable give in the typing deck. That said, the touchpad provides a satisfying mechanical click, and is as responsive and accurate as any I've used on a Windows-based laptop recently. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 4K display, \u003Cem\u003Ethe\u003C\u002Fem\u003E high point of the system, is surrounded by pleasingly thin bezels, allowing its gorgeous OLED panel to shine (more on this later). The taller-than-16:9 aspect ratio also provides ample screen real estate for work and browsing websites. That beauty and practicality go a long way toward making you forget about the outer shell and keyboard that might seem at home on a much cheaper laptop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe best laptops: Does Apple take the crown?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFeatures and ports\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7c4016da-f0b7-42bd-a782-5192cd7b4dcc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe pair of full-size USB-A ports is a rare treat these days, especially on a laptop this thin.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The port selection of Acer's Swift Edge laptop\" data-image-filename=\"acer-swift-edge-ports.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe port selection on the Swift Edge is another triumph. While some expensive models add even more cost by requiring dongles and adapters, this more budget-friendly model from Acer offers two USB-A and two USB-C ports, likely enough to meet your peripheral and storage needs. It also adds additional flexibility to your setup by expanding the included HDMI 2.1 port with DisplayPort over USB Type-C support for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fhow-to-choose-the-right-monitor-layout-for-working-from-home\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eextra monitors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose extra displays might struggle to compete with the built-in screen of the Swift Edge. I've occasionally waffled on the necessity of 4K displays under 24 inches. But here, the extreme pixel density and gorgeous color saturation (provided by the OLED panel) made me shut up and enjoy the show. Video streaming looked crisp, with deep, rich blacks, while text looked razor-sharp at all sizes. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe glossy coating is also more resistant to background glare than other models I've recently reviewed. Between this and the 400 nits of brightness, you shouldn't have any issues getting work done in direct sunlight. Of course, that beautiful display does drink electricity, but we'll discuss that more in the next section. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b09310aa-0ea4-485a-8488-d1e921558c45\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe included charger is on the more compact size, barely larger than the palm of my hand.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Acer Swift laptop's charger\" data-image-filename=\"acer-swift-edge-charger.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAbout that webcam...\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI should also cover the included 1080p webcam. I won't be quite as harsh as I was about the built-in webcam in my recent \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-z16-review-disappointing-webcam-great-everything-else\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ereview of Lenovo's ThinkPad Z16\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The reasons for this are twofold. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47c778fe-0b37-4ef3-8d2d-1e4a39ee993e\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47c778fe-0b37-4ef3-8d2d-1e4a39ee993e\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, Acer didn't make the webcam a showpiece, instead listing it on its spec sheet as a fairly average 1080p laptop camera, unlike Lenovo's decision to permanently highlight it on its laptop's lid. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecond, for all that lack of attention, it performed about the same as Lenovo's webcam: exactly how you'd expect a middling 1080p webcam built into a laptop this thin and light to perform. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not the worst I've ever used, but it has the slightly noisy, not-quite-as-HD-as-you'd-expect look that most laptop webcams suffer from. Still, it's entirely usable for Zoom calls and the like. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELastly, I'll note that the built-in stereo speakers are fine. They won't blow you away, but they also don't distort your audio or get overly muddled at higher volumes either, which is nice for media consumption.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EPerformance and battery life\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"38fcdeee-fda0-4b7f-81b8-f140937dc6be\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe default wallpaper does an excellent job of showing off everything from the rich, dark blacks the OLED can provide to the crisp, highly saturated 4K resolution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The display of the Acer Swift Edge Laptop\" data-image-filename=\"acer-swift-edge-display.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is where the sacrifices in other aspects of the Swift Edge pay off. The Ryzen 7 CPU and 16GB of DDR5 RAM (the latest standard) provided exceptional performance in almost every task I put them to. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"33f444ee-2e26-4a77-bd23-1b8913e1a22b\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F33f444ee-2e26-4a77-bd23-1b8913e1a22b\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBasic Windows and productivity actions always felt instant, even when I attempted to bog the unit down with numerous open browser tabs and several running programs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile it couldn't quite hold up to the Ryzen 9 CPU in that Lenovo model mentioned above, it came far closer than something with an MSRP more than $300 below that model should be expected to. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe only area where it fell somewhat short was gaming. I should emphasize that the Swift Edge is not marketed as a gaming PC. However, most high-end laptops can usually play most midrange games, even if they can't offer usable frame rates on AAA titles. The Swift Edge's performance is just barely usable in games like Overwatch 2 and Valorant,\u003Cem\u003E \u003C\u002Fem\u003Eand fine for older titles like League of Legends or any retro and 2D games you might like. Still, I wouldn't recommend it for more than very occasional, very casual gaming.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGaming performance is a nice bonus in a work or school laptop, but battery life is usually paramount. Acer rates the Swift Edge at 10.5 hours for video playback and 7.5 hours per a MobileMark 2018 benchmark. I found the lower number closer to reality. Most full charges lasted around 5.5 to 7 hours. Pushing the system hard could drop that figure as low as 3 hours, while applying some modest battery-saving measures could stretch it as far as 8 hours. However, carrying out what I consider to be an average variety of tasks, I'd estimate 6.5 hours per charge is a realistic expectation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-power-bank\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe 5 best portable power banks: Top up your mobile devices\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis means you shouldn't expect all-day battery life. But, it was never realistic to expect a 16-inch, 4K resolution display to match the 13-inch, HD display laptops pushing over 10 hours. It's another trade-off worth noting. If you absolutely need 10-plus hours of battery life, you're going to have to consider a smaller, lower-resolution display, or a heavier laptop. You can't have it all, especially at this price point. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"14b94fa7-074c-417c-8d92-74fbd266b9b9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the Acer Swift Edge\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"245353d8-6d9e-46eb-bb69-600852ef543a","filename":"acer-swift-edge-promo.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F31\u002F245353d8-6d9e-46eb-bb69-600852ef543a\u002Facer-swift-edge-promo.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-10-31 20:28:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"245353d8-6d9e-46eb-bb69-600852ef543a","imageFilename":"acer-swift-edge-promo.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F10\u002F31"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fstore.acer.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fswift-edge-laptop-sfa16-41-r6ys\" data-offerprice=\"1499.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Acer\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002Fsubid_value\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fstore.acer.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fswift-edge-laptop-sfa16-41-r6ys\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBottom line \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHopefully, I've illustrated the high points and drawbacks of the Swift Edge in a way that will help you decide if its skills and deficits suit your needs. I believe the ideal owner would be someone who will fully exploit the larger, 4K display. If you'll constantly struggle with the shorter battery life, or you're just doing basic productivity work, all of those pixels will just go to waste. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, if you're a content creator producing photos or videos at 4K resolution or a content consumer who wants your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-webcam\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Estreaming video\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to look its absolute best, you'll savor all this OLED panel has to offer. You'll also need to plug in from time to time to keep that work or entertainment uninterrupted, albeit not for long thanks to the included 65W charger.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are laptop options that will get you a little closer to having everything, but you'll need to shell out about $500 more, and even then you'll leave behind things like a 4K display. This fact alone makes the Swift Edge an excellent, budget-friendly option for the shopper who needs a solid, workhorse laptop with one of the best 16-inch displays I've seen in a laptop under $2,000.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAlternatives to consider \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"ff78e22d-0fe2-44fc-87d4-ebccaddc97d3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Lenovo ThinkPad Z16\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"276583e1-f8fa-4ec3-81f0-0fcd3c84c2ae","filename":"lenovo-thinkpad-z16-lifestyle.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F12\u002F276583e1-f8fa-4ec3-81f0-0fcd3c84c2ae\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-z16-lifestyle.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-10-12 18:35:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"276583e1-f8fa-4ec3-81f0-0fcd3c84c2ae","imageFilename":"lenovo-thinkpad-z16-lifestyle.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F10\u002F12"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-21D4001VUS-Notebook-Board\u002Fdp\u002FB0B8NVY2FZ\" data-offerprice=\"1659\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-21D4001VUS-Notebook-Board\u002Fdp\u002FB0B8NVY2FZ?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf build quality is more important to you than a 4K display, and you can afford to up your budget a little more, Lenovo's ThinkPad Z16 is a beautifully made laptop with a powerhouse Ryzen 9 at its core.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"ba0bac12-bb43-4867-a098-2b808b5a3b3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Dell XPS 13 Plus\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"22822c2e-3fbc-45ca-bb26-58b78f996df0","filename":"dell-xps-13-plus.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F13\u002F22822c2e-3fbc-45ca-bb26-58b78f996df0\u002Fdell-xps-13-plus.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-10-13 16:03:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"22822c2e-3fbc-45ca-bb26-58b78f996df0","imageFilename":"dell-xps-13-plus.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F10\u002F13"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FDell-9320-Touchscreen-Notebook-Board\u002Fdp\u002FB0BBGTT1R3\" data-offerprice=\"1730\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FDell-9320-Touchscreen-Notebook-Board\u002Fdp\u002FB0BBGTT1R3?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you need something with a longer battery life, Dell's XPS 13 Plus is amongst the latest and greatest all-day laptops, with a 13-hour-plus battery. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"b9d1604f-5707-4525-aeb5-56f11e3e6634\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"e8531547-23c5-475a-9c81-e7198d7a404b","filename":"macbook-pro-16.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F17\u002Fe8531547-23c5-475a-9c81-e7198d7a404b\u002Fmacbook-pro-16.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-17 13:48:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"e8531547-23c5-475a-9c81-e7198d7a404b","imageFilename":"macbook-pro-16.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F17"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-MacBook-16-inch-10%E2%80%91core-16%E2%80%91core\u002Fdp\u002FB09JQKBQSB\u002F\" data-offerprice=\"2299\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-MacBook-16-inch-10‑core-16‑core\u002Fdp\u002FB09JQKBQSB\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe perpetual elephant in the room whenever you're shopping for a laptop, Apple's latest 16-inch MacBook Pro is a battery life king with up to 21 hours of use thanks to its highly integrated, extremely powerful M1 Pro core. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-11-01 13:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Acer's Swift Edge Laptop manages to sport features that usually push laptop prices over the $2,000 mark, for around $500 less -- but not without cutting a few corners.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"e816b76b-30bc-4923-92b1-df38144ecd26",image:{id:"38fcdeee-fda0-4b7f-81b8-f140937dc6be",filename:"acer-swift-edge-display.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-10-31 20:34:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"replace-this-image.jpg",credits:"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EAlso, notice the image file name is descriptive. Please don't upload images that have \"screenshot\" or \"image\" or something unknown in the file name. In other words, if the image is of an iPhone 13, make sure the image's file name says iPhone 13. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F31\u002F38fcdeee-fda0-4b7f-81b8-f140937dc6be\u002Facer-swift-edge-display.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"acer-swift-edge-laptop-review-the-lightest-4k-oled-laptop-yet",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Acer Swift Edge laptop review: The lightest 4K OLED laptop yet",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"98d6f538-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"palmsolo (aka Matthew Miller)",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Matthew",lastName:"Miller",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"ee87d915-3bf6-40cb-8e7f-6112d3b322bc",filename:"matthew-miller.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:28:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fee87d915-3bf6-40cb-8e7f-6112d3b322bc\u002Fmatthew-miller.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Matthew Miller started using mobile devices in 1997 and has been writing news, reviews, and opinion pieces ever since. He was a co-host, with Kevin Tofel, of the MobileTechRoundup podcast for 13 years and authored three Wiley Companion series books. Matthew started using mobile devices with a US Robotics Pilot 1000 and has owned hundreds of devices running Palm, Linux, Symbian, Newton, BlackBerry, iOS, Android, webOS, Windows Mobile, and Windows Phone operating systems. His current collection includes a Galaxy Z Fold 3, COROS Vertix 2, Garmin Fenix 945 LTE, Microsoft Surface Pro 6, and many more, along with classic devices like the Apple Newton MessagePad 2100 and Sony CLIE UX50. Matthew can be found on various social networks under the user name of \"palmsolo.\"",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"3a64187f-9d7e-4c0d-ba2a-32bf900a51e5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Keychron Q5 QMK Mechanical Keyboard\" data-rating=\"5\" data-like=\"~Substantial weight and stability ~High quality design, fit, and finish ~Number pad ~QMK VIA software support ~Mac and Windows compatibility\" data-dislike=\"~Expensive for a pre-built mechanical keyboard ~ Not ideal for users who prefer wireless portability\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"07\" data-editorsyear=\"2022\" data-editorsdate=\""2022-07-03T14:21:07.258Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"07\" data-innovationyear=\"2022\" data-innovationdate=\""2022-07-03T14:21:07.258Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"36d26d00-400b-4f1d-823f-1ffedfeee39a","filename":"keychron-q5-keyboard-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F22\u002F36d26d00-400b-4f1d-823f-1ffedfeee39a\u002Fkeychron-q5-keyboard-1.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-22 03:45:49","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"36d26d00-400b-4f1d-823f-1ffedfeee39a","imageFilename":"keychron-q5-keyboard-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F22"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Keychron","offerPrice":"205","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fkeychron-q5-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard?variant=40010452271193","url":""}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI spend a few hours a day pounding away on a keyboard, and for the past couple of years, my default brand has been Keychron. If you spend lots of time entering text on a physical keyboard, then spending $200 may be pretty easy to justify. For the past few weeks, the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"16b7e520-2787-494d-b300-e6147e909832\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fkeychron-q5-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard?variant=40010452271193\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Keychron Q5\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E has been serving as my primary keyboard, with its dedicated number pad and rotating knob setting this one apart from past keyboards I've tried.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pullquote\" data-alignment=\"right\" data-quote=\"With a lovely stable platform, the Keychron Q5 can remain in place when typing and gaming.  \"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron Q5 is an 1800 layout that is 96% of a full-size keyboard. The 1800 layout is not that common as it is designed to pack in as many keys as possible into a smaller area, saving you about an inch of space when compared to a full-size keyboard. I'm perfectly happy getting rid of a bit of dead space to optimize the size for functionality and have been enjoying the unorthodox design. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EKeyboard hardware\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron Q5 keyboard connects to your computer through its USB-C port with a grey Keychron-branded USB-C to USB-C\u002FA included in the retail package. An OS switch is found at the top, next to the USB-C port, so that you can optimize the keyboard for Windows or MacOS. I do not have a MacOS computer, so I only tested the Q5 with Windows 10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"104371d2-2a78-4580-b044-fac57589855a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe operating system switch is next to the USB-C port\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"keychron-q5-keyboard-4\" data-image-filename=\"keychron-q5-keyboard-4.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F22\" data-image-crop=\"1425x800+0+269\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keyboard is constructed by CNC machined 6063 aluminum, with a hefty weight of 5.09 pounds (2,310 grams). While I prefer lighter Bluetooth keyboards when I move my keyboard between workstations, keyboards that connect via cables should be heavy and immobile. With a lovely stable platform, the Keychron Q5 can remain in place when typing and gaming.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"61d0d9fd-9785-472b-ab89-15e51bd6ac6f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe left side of the Keychron Q5\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"keychron-q5-keyboard-2\" data-image-filename=\"keychron-q5-keyboard-2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESouth-facing (towards the typist), RGB LED lights are provided on the keyboard. By pressing Fn + Q, you're able to change the lighting effect across 13 different options, which is great. You can also press FN + Tab to toggle the backlight on and off. The brightness of it all is controlled with Fn + W (increase) or Fn + S (decrease).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fkeychron-q1-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard\u002F\"\u003EKeychron Q1 QMK custom mechanical keyboard review\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bbc40324-b599-4951-af3b-d9efcd14ad80\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbbc40324-b599-4951-af3b-d9efcd14ad80\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keyboard has several layers, including the bottom aluminum case, silicone gaskets, case foam, the PCB, sound absorbing foam, gaskets, steel plate, aluminum top case, switches, and keycaps. I was sent the fully assembled knob model that is available in three color options, with the silver grey one provided for testing. Keycap kits are available to swap out the keys if you prefer a different look to your keyboard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keys are set at a 5.3-degree angle, and the bottom case is not adjustable. I use a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"064e7ac9-12a2-48c1-9cfe-295041e4a555\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FWalnut-Keychron-Bluetooth-Mechanical-Keyboard\u002Fdp\u002FB07Y84SP8G\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Keychron wooden palm rest\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E since the keyboard is quite tall at the front, 30.9 mm with keycaps installed. The back height is 42.8 mm with the keycaps. The keyboard is 390.5 mm in length and 145 mm in width.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EKeyboard software\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe model I tested includes the knob, and by default, the knob works to control volume with a press-in of the knob toggling mute on and off. You can reprogram the knob to perform other actions, such as zoom in and out, adjust the screen brightness, and more. In addition to downloading and installing the free VIA software, you also need to download the appropriate keymap JSON file from the Keychron website. Once this is set up, then you can set the macro for the knob in addition to mapping other keys as you desire.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour layers of key settings are provided with layers 0\u002F1 assigned to MacOS and layers 2\u002F3 assigned to Windows. You can customize shortcuts, backlight effects, and a lot more with the software, so spend some time setting the keyboard up, so it works best for your needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESwitch options\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVarious switch options are supported, and they are also hot-swappable. The Gateron G Pro Red switches were included with this review unit. \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ac9fe8c5-b3f2-4fee-9180-77ce0487c7cf\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fgateron-switch-set?variant=31923910705241\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Gateron G Pro Blue\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"6d2c320f-3263-430c-82eb-141b174574ae\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fgateron-switch-set?variant=31923912376409\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Gateron G Pro Brown\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E are other available options. The \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"180139fb-bad9-4c34-9d90-b9a964971242\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fgateron-switch-set\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Gateron G Pro Red\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E switch is a quiet switch, suitable for office use or gaming, with minimal force needed to press the keys. Keychron also sent along a set of \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"2c1ae925-d097-45a1-8f6b-9146e4e1850a\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fgateron-cap-switch-set?variant=39371706302553\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Golden Brown Gateron Cap switches\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. This switch set has a gentle sound level with tactile behavior. While I enjoy the clicky switches, too, the Gateron Pro Red looks great, and I am able to type faster with it equipped. It's fairly affordable to change out the switches if you want to try something else too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"36d26d00-400b-4f1d-823f-1ffedfeee39a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESilver gray model with the knob, extra keycaps, and extra switches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"keychron-q5-keyboard-1\" data-image-filename=\"keychron-q5-keyboard-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F22\" data-image-crop=\"1425x801+0+228\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKeychron also incorporates Gateron screw-in PCB stabilizers so that the larger keys have stable and smooth performance. We use the space bar more than we know it, and I've genuinely enjoyed the response on the Q5 keyboard. There are also stabilizers for the shift, enter, and backspace keys.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe retail package includes the keyboard, keycap puller, switch puller, screwdriver, hex key, Windows keys, and a few extra keys. A 1.2-meter USB-C to USB-C cable (with USB-A adapter) is provided to connect the keyboard. There are 98 keys on the Keychron Q5 QMK keyboard with the number pad on the right, and directional arrows tucked in between the keys and number pad.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fkeychron-k3-wireless-mechanical-keyboard\u002F\"\u003EKeychron K3 wireless mechanical keyboard review\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"606af762-bfb5-4d37-9243-0501283c4874\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Keychron Q5 Keyboard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"keychron-q5-keyboard-3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet","imageData":{"id":"81b53f6d-3a28-4a6e-b811-68ba15d8a52c","filename":"keychron-q5-keyboard-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F22\u002F81b53f6d-3a28-4a6e-b811-68ba15d8a52c\u002Fkeychron-q5-keyboard-3.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-22 03:43:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"81b53f6d-3a28-4a6e-b811-68ba15d8a52c","imageFilename":"keychron-q5-keyboard-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F22"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fkeychron-q5-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard?variant=40010452271193\" data-offerprice=\"205\" data-offermerchant=\"Keychron\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EDaily usage experiences and conclusion\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron Q5 keyboard is available in a barebones model for $175 up to a fully assembled model with a knob for $205. ISO models are available too, with three color and three switch options to choose from.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKeychron also has a new double gasket design in the Q5 that adds gaskets and silicone pads to reduce the sound resonance between the metals and reduce other sounds while supporting the overall typing sound. It's tough to find anything wrong with the keyboard, and spending $200 for a high-quality keyboard that helps you enter text quickly and efficiently is worth it to me.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EAlternatives to consider\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron Q5 keyboard is a near-perfect keyboard for many people, but if you don't need the number pad, want something priced differently, or want another brand, here are some other options to consider.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"558cb7ec-30ff-40fa-a8ec-ee925915fd76\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Drop Shift Mechanical Gaming Keyboard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"82ee463e-3e7e-41a8-8f60-80b8d1a188a6","filename":"dropshift-gaming-keyboard.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F22\u002F82ee463e-3e7e-41a8-8f60-80b8d1a188a6\u002Fdropshift-gaming-keyboard.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-22 03:52:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"82ee463e-3e7e-41a8-8f60-80b8d1a188a6","imageFilename":"dropshift-gaming-keyboard.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F22"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08L8K7SYZ\" data-offerprice=\"270\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08L8K7SYZ?linkCode=sl1&tag=nerdtechy-20&linkId=ccfaf16aad540898d437538ee4075d42&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl&th=1\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"3b782d24-2711-4c20-9219-82fa073b6db2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Keychron K4 96% layout keyboard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"356281d5-5ff0-4f56-9740-cfd45e8d7073","filename":"keychron-k4.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F22\u002F356281d5-5ff0-4f56-9740-cfd45e8d7073\u002Fkeychron-k4.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-22 03:54:18","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"356281d5-5ff0-4f56-9740-cfd45e8d7073","imageFilename":"keychron-k4.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F22"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08LSQXKMN?\" data-offerprice=\"87.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08LSQXKMN?&linkCode=sl1&tag=nerdtechy-20&linkId=145383a601c6c99cce4b749b9d52edcd&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"35f8e35c-908f-4b56-bf51-00a27da6123c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"FL ESPORTS 98 key keyboard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"20a1321d-615c-46c5-b8cb-b4ddeadc4e8e","filename":"fl-esports-98-key-keyboard.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F22\u002F20a1321d-615c-46c5-b8cb-b4ddeadc4e8e\u002Ffl-esports-98-key-keyboard.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-22 03:55:49","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"20a1321d-615c-46c5-b8cb-b4ddeadc4e8e","imageFilename":"fl-esports-98-key-keyboard.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F22"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB09GB577FW?\" data-offerprice=\"99.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB09GB577FW?linkCode=sl1&tag=nerdtechy-20&linkId=f278650dbe88381af605d38a64e0d885&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl&th=1\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-26 20:35:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Keychron continues to release compelling mechanical keyboards, and the newest model brings the rare 96% layout that includes a number pad, function row, and knob.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"398cd3e7-0bd8-41f9-bf41-847908f4eed4",image:{id:"36d26d00-400b-4f1d-823f-1ffedfeee39a",filename:"keychron-q5-keyboard-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-07-22 03:45:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"keychron-q5-keyboard-1",credits:"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESilver gray model with the knob, extra keycaps, and extra switches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F22\u002F36d26d00-400b-4f1d-823f-1ffedfeee39a\u002Fkeychron-q5-keyboard-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:"1425x801+0+211",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1425,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Smart Office^Office Furniture",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"keychron-q5-keyboard-review",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Keychron Q5 keyboard review: Greater functionality for a greater price",topic:{id:"6b5d3adf-f429-447b-b93f-469fefe712c5",slug:"office-furniture",name:"Office Furniture",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"6b5d3adf-f429-447b-b93f-469fefe712c5",slug:"office-furniture",name:"Office Furniture",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"4ccc7a51-db4d-46e5-834a-6da2306636bb",slug:"gaming-accessories",name:"Gaming Accessories",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"5a505bd7-edd5-4501-b6a1-0b4b0149318e",username:"Jason Cipriani",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Jason",lastName:"Cipriani",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"ec9503e9-68fc-4acb-b714-31487e597154",filename:"jason-cipriani.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:09:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fec9503e9-68fc-4acb-b714-31487e597154\u002Fjason-cipriani.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Jason Cipriani is based out of beautiful Colorado and has been covering technology news and reviewing the latest gadgets as a freelance journalist for the past 13 years. His work can be found all across the Internet and in print. When he's not writing, he can be found hanging out with his family, gaming, or trying to force himself to read a book.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft hasn't given up on its aspirations to create a unique, if not niche, smartphone for its loyal Surface fans. With last year's \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4defa1e0-723b-4ba3-8d3f-d297701cf211\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsurface\u002Fdevices\u002Fsurface-duo\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Duo\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, the company took a novel approach to the standard smartphone. Instead of putting out yet another rectangular Android phone, the Duo featured two impressively thin displays, held together by hinges, that made it possible to fold the phone in half. Unlike Samsung's \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"d5cc3b20-3f1b-4a3a-b260-e426966c5a82\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.samsung.com\u002Fus\u002Fsmartphones\u002Fgalaxy-z-fold3-5g\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Galaxy Z Fold\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E that actually has a screen that folds in half, the Duo had two displays that are physically separated. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs is often the case with first-generation devices, the Duo wasn't all that impressive. I purchased one and returned it within 30 days (Microsoft offers a 60-day return policy). There was clear potential with the phone, but I felt the concept was a better fit for a tablet (or even a laptop). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFast forward and Microsoft is ready to ship the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e7137e0b-a8a3-4fbe-883e-eef89765ccb6\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-duo-2\u002F9408kgxp4xjl\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Duo 2\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. There are some modest changes to the second generation device, including a speedier processor, better cameras and it runs Android 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"dd06e1b0-3027-4f79-b8b3-e559db6dbf70\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Microsoft Surface Duo 2\" data-rating=\"3.5\" data-like=\"~ Battery life ~ Performance ~ Two screens are better than one\" data-dislike=\"~ Mediocre camera ~ Awkward design ~ Expensive\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"11\" data-editorsyear=\"2021\" data-editorsdate=\""2021-11-02T18:51:01.662Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"11\" data-innovationyear=\"2021\" data-innovationdate=\""2021-11-02T18:51:01.662Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"418972ce-b21f-408b-88a8-d71b744cca93","filename":"surface-duo-2-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F20\u002F418972ce-b21f-408b-88a8-d71b744cca93\u002Fsurface-duo-2-1.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-20 19:16:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"418972ce-b21f-408b-88a8-d71b744cca93","imageFilename":"surface-duo-2-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F20"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-duo-2\u002F9408kgxp4xjl?activetab=pivot:overviewtab","offerMerchant":"Microsoft","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-duo-2\u002F9408kgxp4xjl?activetab=pivot:overviewtab","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-duo-2\u002F9408kgxp4xjl?activetab=pivot:overviewtab"}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been using the Surface Duo 2 as my main Android phone for two weeks now, and have a good feel for what I like and what I don't. I'm going to stick to my original plan and live with the Duo 2 for an extended amount of time, but here are some of my thoughts after using it for a couple of weeks. Let's start with my least favorite part of the Duo 2. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fff0e928-96ed-4f8f-8f81-24ce3de48766\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EGet a case. Or at least, be more aware of how you're carrying the Duo 2.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"zv100475.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"zv100475.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F11\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"5472\" data-image-height=\"3080\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ELet's be honest –– It's an awkward design\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first few days of using the Duo 2, I didn't really mind the different approach to its size and shape. It was a nice break from the long, black rectangles all smartphones resemble. But the longer I've used it, the more awkward I've found it. Microsoft has made adjustments to the keyboard, its positioning and size based on whether or not the Duo 2 is open, or one side is folded onto itself. But I've yet to figure out the most comfortable way to type on it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith both screens open, you're forced to type on one side with a single thumb, with the keyboard shrinking down towards the edge of the screen to make it easier. When the device is folded over on itself, giving you a single screen to view and use, the keyboard spans the entire screen to make it easier to type two-handed. This is probably the most comfortable, or at least my most used, orientation for typing longer messages or replying to emails. But because the camera bump (more on that in a minute) no longer allows the device to fold completely flat, the gap between makes it feel lopsided, as if you're doing something wrong. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThen there's the fact that putting the oddly shaped smartphone -- which is wider than the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"83436e36-73dc-44c3-8a98-6908be0a8764\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-iphone\u002Fiphone-13-pro\u002F6.7-inch-display-128gb-graphite-unlocked\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPhone 13 Pro Max\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E or \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ad8398fb-2722-416e-9598-f25e825ca771\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fgoogle-pixel-6-pro-128gb-sorta-sunny-verizon\u002F6483653.p?skuId=6483653\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Pixel 6 Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E when closed -- in a pocket is downright uncomfortable. It just doesn't fit properly, which means you end up carrying it in your hand most of the time, or slipping it into your back pocket. Or in my case, I put it in a coat pocket, not realizing that it didn't quite fit all the way. A few seconds later, the phone fell out of my pocket, crashed to the floor and cracked the corner of the screen. It's still usable and doesn't impact the experience at all (other than seeing a few cracks), but it's a good reminder that you need to put some sort of case or bumper on this phone, and be more aware of how you're carrying it with you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Glance Bar has serious potential\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3db73244-a476-46ac-a757-e302b544ef33\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Duo 2's Glance Bar needs to be opened up to more developers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"surface-duo-2-6.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"surface-duo-2-6.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F10\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"2355\" data-image-height=\"1766\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe original Duo lacked any way to easily check if you had any pending alerts while the device was closed. You had to slightly open the device to activate the peek feature that showed you the time and notification icons. Peek is still present to check the time (at least I can't find a setting to turn on alerts), but thanks to rounded display edges, you can now see alert icons along the hinge when the Duo 2 closed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is calling this feature the Glance Bar, and currently, it's capable of showing the time, text message alerts, missed calls, battery level, and volume. For example, when you start charging the Duo 2, the Glance Bar will show you the battery's current charge level -- showing green or red based on the current level. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen the device is closed, you can press the power button to trigger Glance Bar and check the time as well as any pending alerts. It's a far better experience than peek on the original Duo which required more than just a quick action like pressing a button. However, it doesn't go far enough. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI would love for Microsoft to open Glance Bar to third-party developers and let apps like Twitter or Spark Email to show new message alerts. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've also found that the Glance Bar doesn't always work. For example, I've randomly been able to press the volume buttons and see the Glance Bar light up white to show the volume level moving up or down. But more often than not, the volume indicator doesn't show up at all. Maybe there's a specific order of pressing the sleep\u002Fwake button and then the volume rocker, or vice versa, but all of my pressing and tapping hasn't figured it out. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMultitasking on both screens is getting easier\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bc15ebdf-aa2d-4d47-a811-9d0c3564291e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ETwo screens really are better than one.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"surface-duo-2-2.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"surface-duo-2-2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F10\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"2647\" data-image-height=\"1985\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMaybe I never really gave the Duo a proper chance, or the Duo 2's software ironed out enough of the usability bugs I encountered (more on that in a minute), but it feels easier to multitask on the Duo 2. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt wasn't until about 48 hours after setting up the phone that the way to leverage two different displays started to click for me. For example, entering app-specific passwords to set up my email, contacts, and calendars normally is a process that requires jumping between a browser and an email or sync app. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut on the Duo 2, I left the Edge browser open on one display, with passwords at the ready while at the same time completing the setup process in the respective apps on the other display. What really helped me, more than being able to see all the information at the same time, was that I could use one hand to select and copy information while at almost the same time using the other hand on the opposite display to select a text field and paste the information. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt really was an \u003Cem\u003EAha!\u003C\u002Fem\u003E moment for how the Duo 2 is supposed to be used. I need a lot more time to figure out the multitasking scenarios and how Microsoft intends for the Duo 2 to be used, but I feel like I've started to turn the corner. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter two weeks, I still find value in using both of the Duo 2's screens at the same time. Often I have Twitter open on one side, browsing through my timeline, with the other display acting as my multitasking screen. I'll switch between apps, reply to messages and the like. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThere are still some software quirks\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of my main issues with the original Duo was that the software felt unfinished and lacked overall polish for routine tasks like rotating the screen. Icons would disappear, the device wouldn't change orientation or the launcher would flat out crash. It was bad, but I've been told it got better over the last year through software updates. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat effort doesn't go unnoticed on the Duo 2 which runs Android 11. Overall, the Duo 2 feels faster and performance has been mostly reliable. That said, there have been a few occasions when app icons appear stuck on the screen. Here's a screenshot example:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"48eb21f7-c711-4902-a3f4-6b0b6631628c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOne of the random software quirks I've experienced so far.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"duo-2-software-issue.png\" data-image-filename=\"duo-2-software-issue.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F10\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"2754\" data-image-height=\"1892\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs you can see on the left side of the device, there are stacked app icons and the dock has a giant bar across it. I just noticed while adding the photo that the search bar is also present. So much going on in one screenshot. I remember seeing similar stuff like this on the Duo last year, but it happened a lot more frequently. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe review sample I received is running the same software version that Microsoft is shipping to customers, so I'd expect some customers to report similar issues. Granted, it's not widespread, but this is something that shouldn't really happen. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EGestures are a huge adjustment I just haven't made yet\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor those who've used Android's gestures to navigate between apps and menus, you'll feel somewhat at home when using the Duo 2. Most of the gestures are still there and do exactly what you want them to, with two big exceptions. You can't swipe horizontally across the bottom of the screen to quickly switch between apps. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's a gesture I routinely use on a typical Android device to bounce between apps. That gesture does absolutely nothing on the Duo 2. Well, I take that back. If you swipe towards the other screen, it will move the app to that screen, replacing any app that was open. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo switch between apps, you have to swipe up from the bottom of the screen to enter the multitasking view and then continue to scroll vertically until you find the app you want to switch to. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm not sure what the answer is for the Duo 2 and its gestures, but after two weeks you'd think that I would have adjusted to the new gestures. Instead, I constantly throw apps from screen to screen without even thinking. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe camera bump took away my favorite part of the Duo's design \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a8d701d2-e774-4d8c-a376-0b2386312ede\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe bump is big. Too big.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"surface-duo-2-3.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"surface-duo-2-3.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F10\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"4032\" data-image-height=\"3024\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the many complaints about the original Duo was its lack of a high-quality camera. In fact, it only had a single camera that was above the display -- there wasn't one on the rear of the device at all. That meant the back of the device was completely flat on both sides, allowing you to lay it completely flat or fold it closed on itself. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year, Microsoft added a triple camera array on the back of the right display. The cameras, so far, are an improvement, but the bump that Microsoft had to add to accommodate the modules takes away how surprisingly thin the original Duo was. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to that, the Duo 2 no longer sits flat on a table, nor can you fold it over on itself without there being a gap. The latter complaint is admittedly a little nit-picky on my part, but not being able to lay the Duo 2 flat on my desk and use the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"acc68073-ea84-4b0e-976c-2e59891662db\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-slim-pen-2\u002F8tb9xw8rwc14\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Slim Pen 2\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E to jot notes in One Note is what really irks me. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause of the camera bump the entire device wobbles when you get near the edge or to a specific corner of the display, depending on how you place the Duo 2 on your desk. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Slim Pen 2 is a meaningful upgrade\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"135d32b6-1287-46ea-930e-f94e952b215e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Slim Pen 2 is the Apple Pencil the Surface line deserves.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"surface-duo-2-4.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"surface-duo-2-4.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F10\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"2446\" data-image-height=\"1834\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI have used a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b70fdadd-db39-490d-89ce-90d6ca625e27\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-slim-pen\u002F8mn7mp9nqdlk\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Slim Pen\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E with several Surface products, including the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"01778e37-7350-4e9d-9de1-7678ba996483\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-laptop-4\u002F946627fb12t1\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Laptop 4\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"aecb3edc-1072-42c6-952c-52bd7db9ef37\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-pro-x\u002F8xtmb6c575md\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Pro X\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, and it works, but the experience hasn't been near as good as the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8631d2db-e3ac-40b2-9219-976f3b69ebee\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fus-hed\u002Fshop\u002Fproduct\u002FMK0C2AM\u002FA\u002Fapple-pencil-1st-generation\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Apple Pencil\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E on an \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"9d9d03ef-d7ed-466d-b798-ba0e5f463d17\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fipad-pro\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPad Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven with the wobbly issue I just talked about, the Slim Pen 2 and the Duo 2 is a marked improvement. I've been using the Duo 2 for all my meeting notes the last couple of days and have been impressed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft isn't taking orders for a Duo 2 case that magnetically attaches and wirelessly charges the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"93179da7-c255-4f78-9616-76145034016a\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-slim-pen-2\u002F8tb9xw8rwc14\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Slim Pen 2\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, but it's definitely something I want to check out when it launches. It's odd that the case enables wireless charging for the pen, but the Duo 2 itself lacks wireless charging. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMicrosoft needs more apps to adopt Duo support\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4997ec5b-1227-4818-9c8f-81668b412243\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAn example of TikTok running on the Duo 2. This is how all apps need to look and work on the novel phone.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"surface-duo-2-5.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"surface-duo-2-5.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F10\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"2714\" data-image-height=\"2036\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOutside of Microsoft's own apps, there aren't very many apps that fully support the Duo 2's dual-screen approach. Amazon's Kindle app is a good example of an app that had adopted the two-screen approach and makes it feel as if you're really reading a book. TikTok is also optimized for the Duo 2, showing you trending items or a user's profile information on one screen while you swipe through your account's stream on the other. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"ce257707-4741-4cb1-946c-40e75c5be771\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fce257707-4741-4cb1-946c-40e75c5be771\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut outside of the small handful of developers that Microsoft has convinced to build apps to maximize the experience, many apps struggle -- especially when they're spanned across both displays. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESlack, for example, would make sense to add Duo 2 support and adopt a similar look to the iPad app where your list of channels and conversations are on the left side, and the right side shows the content of each as you move between them. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead, the full-screen Slack app acts just like it does on a much slimmer, single display smartphone, forcing you to swipe back and forth to move between channels, conversations, and their contents. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI get it, the Duo and Duo 2 are very niche devices for a very small subset of users. Prioritizing developer resources to implement features that a small percentage of people will care about and use isn't a top priority -- and shouldn't be for most developer teams -- but, as is often the case with experimental and new devices like the Duo 2, without developer support it's hard for a device to gain traction. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EPlenty more left to explore\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI haven't fully tested the cameras outside of a couple of photos of random stuff on my desk and one of my dogs. Even those boring pictures look much better than I remember the original Duo's camera being, but not on the same level of Apple's iPhone, Google's Pixel or even a Galaxy phone. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm sure my experience and opinion of the Duo 2 will drastically change over the coming days and weeks. I'll keep updating this review in progress as that happens. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EIn the meantime, do you have a Duo or plan on getting the Duo 2? Let me know your thoughts about Microsoft's latest smartphone in the comments below.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"73acd149-be52-4594-aa01-295e1bc9507b\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F73acd149-be52-4594-aa01-295e1bc9507b\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2021-11-04 13:39:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft's second-generation foldable smartphone is off to a cautiously optimistic start.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"32deb356-4b39-4f97-a56c-8e14fa488c77",image:{id:"4997ec5b-1227-4818-9c8f-81668b412243",filename:"surface-duo-2-5.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-10-20 19:17:39",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"surface-duo-2-5.jpg",credits:"Jason Cipriani\u002FZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EAn example of TikTok running on the Duo 2. This is how all apps need to look and work on the novel phone. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F20\u002F4997ec5b-1227-4818-9c8f-81668b412243\u002Fsurface-duo-2-5.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2714,height:2036,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Companies^Microsoft",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-surface-duo-2-review",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft Surface Duo 2 review in progress: Two weeks in and I'm as confused as I am intrigued",topic:{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0ff3d7ed-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"bring-your-own-device",name:"Bring Your Own Device",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10cdea3b-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobile-os",name:"Mobile OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1147b242-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"smartphones",name:"Smartphones",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"57d5b2de-e901-4dd9-af48-ece44becc366",slug:"5g",name:"5G",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"2a142269-ad72-4347-a8d7-cbab9a2f6346",username:"chris_matyszczyk",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Chris",lastName:"Matyszczyk",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"dc8b697c-2b0a-4b2d-8ce9-7ff431642a42",filename:"chris-matyszczyk.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:17:05",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fdc8b697c-2b0a-4b2d-8ce9-7ff431642a42\u002Fchris-matyszczyk.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Chris Matyszczyk is an award-winning creative director who now runs the consultancy Howard Raucous LLC. In 2013, Mediapost named him the Most Influential Person on Madison Avenue. His writing has been published all over the world, most recently on CNET.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1e21f250-b45f-45e0-aee8-0600d069fc98\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESell it to me, Apple.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Apple\" data-image-alt-text=\"apple-ipad-air-2022.png\" data-image-filename=\"screen-shot-2022-03-08-at-1-22-14-pm-2.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F03\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"3840\" data-image-height=\"2160\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Goodness,\" I said to myself. \"That's so impressive.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWell, I was sitting on my own watching Apple's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fiphone-se-2022-specs-price-release-date-how-to-buy\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elatest event\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, so who else was I going to talk to?  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd I'm always easily impressed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this case, Angela Kyazike, Apple's iPad engineering program manager, showed off \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-unveils-latest-ipad-air-with-m1-chip-improved-usbc-port\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe latest and clearly most wonderful iPad Air\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe sold it with a script that contained all the aplomb of the small print you always click \"agree\" under. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe said \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"48fd8084-ce9b-409b-9362-a4a2b05b5bf3\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fipad-air\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"the new Air\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is \"up to two times faster than the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest selling Windows laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in its price range.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"e15256bd-5065-4aee-a45c-e692c24d6388\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"iPad Air\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"aeee0261-c5e3-4c13-944c-31bdc34b11ae","filename":"screen-shot-2022-03-08-at-1-18-39-pm-2.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F08\u002Faeee0261-c5e3-4c13-944c-31bdc34b11ae\u002Fscreen-shot-2022-03-08-at-1-18-39-pm-2.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-08 18:19:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"aeee0261-c5e3-4c13-944c-31bdc34b11ae","imageFilename":"screen-shot-2022-03-08-at-1-18-39-pm-2.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F08"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fipad-air\u002F\" data-offerprice=\"599\" data-offermerchant=\"Apple\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fipad-air\u002F&subId1=[subid_value]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs often happens, my initial excitement -- hey, it was Tuesday morning -- was followed by a more rational \"wait a minute there.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's a tablet that purports to be not so expensive being compared to a relatively cheap Windows laptop. We've been here so many times before. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnet.com\u002Fnews\u002Fmicrosoft-laughs-at-apples-claim-that-ipad-pro-is-a-computer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehas often claimed the iPad is a laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, then changed its mind and seemed to contort itself into \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-cant-stop-insisting-ipad-pro-is-a-computer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eseveral more twists\u003C\u002Fa\u003E before concluding that, well, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-finally-decides-the-ipad-pro-is-a-computer-and-isnt\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eit's not really a laptop, but maybe it is\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis time, it seems to be far better than a laptop. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUntil, perhaps, you remember you know how to add numbers together. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new Air is priced -- base priced, that is -- at between \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"196c0248-3c14-40df-8fb0-b4bb6e557e2c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-ipad\u002Fipad-air\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$599 and $899\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo type on it in a (vaguely) similar way to a laptop, you need a keyboard. Which Apple's \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ae2b3d42-e9d9-4db6-a489-c5ceb279445f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fselect-ipad-keyboards\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"fine website\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E tells me could cost you another \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"bded9485-1cb8-4bd7-94a5-127b3f99f977\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fproduct\u002FMJQJ3LL\u002FA\u002Fmagic-keyboard-for-ipad-pro-11-inch-3rd-generation-and-ipad-air-5th-generation-us-english-white\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$299 for the Magic version\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"a7478719-78cc-43b4-a561-f6de66a4e416\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fproduct\u002FMXNK2LL\u002FA\u002Fsmart-keyboard-folio-for-ipad-pro-11-inch-3rd-generation-and-ipad-air-5th-generation-us-english\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$159-$179 for the merely Smart version\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWas Apple, therefore, comparing a thing without a keyboard to a thing with a keyboard and hoping no one would notice? (\"Yes,\" is my first thought.) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd then there's this best-selling Windows laptop in the same price range as the iPad Air. Which part of the iPad Air's price range would that specifically be? I'm guessing the very bottom end. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThinking makes the problems mount, doesn't it? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo Apple was, I'm thinking, claiming that the new Air is twice as fast as a pretty cheap but popular Windows laptop -- one that isn't, practically speaking, in the same price range at all. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKyazike did offer another clue. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fapple-events\u002Fmarch-2022\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EShe said\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that the Windows laptop was three times thicker and four times heavier. Which just wasn't enough of a clue for me. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENaturally, then, I did the only thing I could. I asked Apple if it could please tell me which specific Windows laptop it was denigrating with such haughty sales patter. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'll update, should I (ever) hear. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis tortured sales technique can be a touch grating. Could it be that, if Apple had named this Windows laptop, it would have rendered its comparison slightly risible? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"gallery\" data-uuid=\"dad86a73-8a67-422c-8583-ed12ec893188\" data-float=\"none\" data-size=\"large\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMight it have elicited a little \"well, of course, it's going to be faster than \u003Cem\u003Ethat?\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe identity of this Dell or HP or Lenovo -- I'm guessing here -- laptop must remain a mystery for now. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'll merely tell you that my \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"1067204e-60c6-40d4-9f7f-8ae82187d799\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fmacbook-air\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"M1 MacBook Air\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is faster than a coffee table. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes, even a coffee table with wheels. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"video\" data-uuid=\"e3b1efc7-844a-480d-b4ac-b255afdfb210\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-03-09 13:40:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"During its latest event, Apple made a boast about the iPad Air. How much hot air was in it? I asked Apple.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"41bb3ea0-0825-40fe-8738-e9b0a0f67c9f",image:{id:"1e21f250-b45f-45e0-aee8-0600d069fc98",filename:"screen-shot-2022-03-08-at-1-22-14-pm-2.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-03-08 21:37:12",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"apple-ipad-air-2022.png",credits:"Apple",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESell it to me, Apple.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F08\u002F1e21f250-b45f-45e0-aee8-0600d069fc98\u002Fscreen-shot-2022-03-08-at-1-22-14-pm-2.png",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:3840,height:2160,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Companies^Apple",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"apple-ruthlessly-mocks-a-windows-laptop-but-which-one-exactly",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Apple ruthlessly mocks a Windows laptop (but which one, exactly?)",topic:{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"116c1d92-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"tablets",name:"Tablets",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"59080956-0412-41e5-8eb9-a44ae4f9a8a9",username:"Michael Gariffo",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Michael",lastName:"Gariffo",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"96ef4095-58f9-4a2f-81e3-f21dc8610bf3",filename:"michael-gariffo.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:37:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F96ef4095-58f9-4a2f-81e3-f21dc8610bf3\u002Fmichael-gariffo.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Michael is a veteran technology writer who has been covering business and consumer-focused hardware and software for over a decade. He has published hundreds of whitepapers and thousands of articles on everything from the handheld technology that makes your daily life a little easier to the global infrastructure that powers the entire Internet.",profile:c,title:"Staff Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"28ccf3a7-6370-4555-bec7-a35ec7cfc9cc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Accell\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sample Image 16:9 Red\" data-image-filename=\"accel-thunderbolt-4-docking-station.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"3933\" data-image-height=\"2190\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you've never used a docking station like Accell's Thunderbolt 4 Dock, you're missing out. Loads of us use a single, often work-provided, laptop when we're on the go and working from home. The hassle of swapping between these two scenarios means we often find ourselves struggling to get work done on a tiny laptop display with nothing but its built-in keyboard and touchpad. After all, who feels like connecting and disconnecting six or seven cables multiple times a day to take advantage of external monitors and peripherals? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, imagine if you could complete all of the same hook-ups, even power, by connecting one, single cable. In this new world of distributed work scenarios we now live in, that kind of convenience can revolutionize your workflow. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhich-is-better-usb-c-3-1-gen-2-or-thunderbolt\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWhich is better, USB-C 3.1 gen 2 or Thunderbolt?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"efbd3e2b-8b43-424d-b5c4-caefa2cfd9ce\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the Accell Thunderbolt 4 Dock here\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"30aed06e-a669-4fe8-8217-fefea3fc124d","filename":"accell-tb4-dock-promo.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F09\u002F14\u002F30aed06e-a669-4fe8-8217-fefea3fc124d\u002Faccell-tb4-dock-promo.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-09-14 16:45:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"30aed06e-a669-4fe8-8217-fefea3fc124d","imageFilename":"accell-tb4-dock-promo.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F09\u002F14"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAccell-Thunderbolt-Docking-Station\u002Fdp\u002FB09KZBD1KJ\" data-offerprice=\"300\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first, most important thing you can know about the Accell Thunderbolt 4 Dock is its expansive port selection. This is one of the two main differentiators between the many Thunderbolt docks on the market. We'll cover the other a bit further down. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinding the right \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edocking station\u003C\u002Fa\u003E boils down to your needs, including what peripherals you want to use, how many of each you own, and what connections your monitors and peripherals require. This will determine if this model is right for you, or if another would better suit your setup. To make this easy for you, I've included bulleted lists below. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFrontside ports\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e243d4fb-6c70-4c56-9024-0b637f886756\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAll ports are listed below, left to right. The tiny dot on the extreme right is an indicator LED\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Front of Accell's Thunderbolt 4 dock\" data-image-filename=\"accell-tb4-dock-front-view.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESD 4.0 UHS-II card reader slot\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EUSB 2.0 Type A port\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E3.5mm audio jack\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EUpstream \u002F Source Thunderbolt 4 port with 96W of power delivery (PD) - This is where you'll plug in your laptop\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBackside ports\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fa22f6c0-7fed-41d7-a81d-7abf5cadb342\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe ports are nicely spaced to prevent larger connectors and dongles from interfering with adjacent inputs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\" data-image-alt-text=\"Rear view of Accell's Thunderbolt 4 dock\" data-image-filename=\"accell-tb4-dock-rear-view.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPower in (from supplied power brick, shown below)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E2 x Thunderbolt 4 ports\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDisplayPort 1.4 port\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E3 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type A ports\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGigabit Ethernet port\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis doesn't represent the widest port selection available at this price point, but it should cover the vast majority of users' needs. This is especially true if one of the displays you'll be connecting supports video over Thunderbolt, as either of the included Thunderbolt 4 ports can output your PC's video to external displays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-monitor\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBest monitor 2022: Treat yourself with a gorgeous screen\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 96W of supported power delivery means this tiny dock should also be able to top up all but the most power-hungry laptop, as long as they support charging via Thunderbolt. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1c76a06e-851b-4a68-81c9-f08e0ca1bd79\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ELeft to right: power adapter (that power brick's nearly as big as, and heavier than, the dock itself), Euro Plug power cable, US power cable, and Thunderbolt 4 cable\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Accessories included with Accell's Thunderbolt 4 dock\" data-image-filename=\"accell-tb4-dock-accessories.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis all means that you could connect a laptop to a triple-monitor setup (including the laptop's own display), with an external keyboard and mouse, and still have enough room for things like USB-connected printers or webcams, as well as analog audio equipment...all by plugging in that single, included Thunderbolt 4 cable. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI tested this scenario using a late model \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ftopic\u002Flenovo\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELenovo ThinkPad\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and an older model Alienware gaming laptop. All monitors, peripherals, and connected equipment functioned perfectly and took only seconds to fully connect. The setup also included two 4K displays, one connected via DisplayPort and the other via Thunderbolt cable. The Accell dock supports a single 8K (at 30Hz) display, but I didn't have one handy to test this with. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-8k-tv\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe 5 best 8K TVs: Future-proof your home theater\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThere's a catch\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn short, it all \"just works,\" and works well...as long as you're using a Windows-based PC. To be clear, everything but display outputs worked perfectly well on Macs too. But, there's a caveat when it comes to external monitors. This is where the second of the big considerations I'd advise you to analyze when shopping for a Thunderbolt dock comes in: whether or not it supports DisplayLink. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"69ef46e6-6566-480e-b2ee-8ff4f1c72edf\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"right\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EDocks that support DisplayLink will generally either show this logo somewhere in their support literature, or will specifically note it on the device itself\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"DisplayLink\" data-image-alt-text=\"The DisplayLink logo\" data-image-filename=\"displaylink-logo.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F14\" data-image-crop=\"700x627+297+63\" data-image-width=\"1321\" data-image-height=\"743\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can think of DisplayLink as a way to add extra external displays to a PC by creating a software-based GPU, or video card. This virtualized hardware makes it possible to exceed the maximum number of displays your PC could typically support. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis has become so important recently because of Apple. The company's M1 and M2-based MacBooks only support a single external display. If you connect the Accell Thunderbolt 4 Dock, you can still use a single DisplayPort OR Thunderbolt 4 display. However, attempting to add a second monitor will disable the first. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fvideo\u002Fhow-to-connect-a-second-thunderbolt-monitor-to-your-m1-mac-mini\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to connect a second Thunderbolt monitor to your M1 Mac Mini\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis, to be clear, is a limitation of Apple's hardware, not Accell's. However, there are comparably priced Thunderbolt docks that do offer DisplayPort and will allow you to add more than one external display to an M1 or M2-based MacBook. This dock, unfortunately, will not. Accell itself notes this in its tech specs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, If you're a Windows PC user DisplayLink is less vital. Also, if you own a MacBook using an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffirst-look-at-apple-m1-pro-and-m1-max\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EM1 Pro or M1 Max chip\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (which supports two and four external displays, respectively), it will likely be unnecessary. But, given the massive popularity of the M1 and M2 MacBook air models, it's something all Thunderbolt dock shoppers should know about.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBottom line\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, the Accell Thunderbolt 4 dock is a high-quality option for users with the right operating system and needs, but it's not something I can recommend for all users, and I'd advise MacBook owners to opt for something else. For them, cheaper, DisplayLink-equipped options would likely be a better choice. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuying info: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EIf the Accell Thunderbolt 4 Dock sounds like an ideal solution for your situation and the specifical peripherals you use, you can purchase it \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"0558793f-326a-4c42-a209-b2fecc2ade66\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAccell-Thunderbolt-Docking-Station\u002Fdp\u002FB09KZBD1KJ\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"at Amazon.com for $300 right now\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe 13 best laptop docking stations of 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-14 20:54:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The convenience provided by this tiny desktop companion is hard to overstate. It's great for Macs, too, except for one thing.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0f0fca9b-993e-47cd-85bc-9c5109eab3c6",image:{id:"30aed06e-a669-4fe8-8217-fefea3fc124d",filename:"accell-tb4-dock-promo.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-09-14 16:45:25",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"GOTRAX 4 electric scooter",credits:"GOTRAX",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F09\u002F14\u002F30aed06e-a669-4fe8-8217-fefea3fc124d\u002Faccell-tb4-dock-promo.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1321,height:743,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Smart Office^Office Hardware & Appliances",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"accell-thunderbolt-4-docking-station-extreme-convenience-but-best-for-windows-users",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Is this the ultimate Windows docking station? Meet the Accell Thunderbolt 4",topic:{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"95ca6724-c309-42a2-b946-f359f1127d73",slug:"computers-tech",name:"Computers & Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a0de22ce-dbed-419b-9a97-562689032701",username:"kwan2035",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"June",lastName:"Wan",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"4cc4d03e-eeaf-4b0c-bb8a-63d34de6cc51",filename:"1549928918804.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-03 20:04:44",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F03\u002F4cc4d03e-eeaf-4b0c-bb8a-63d34de6cc51\u002F1549928918804.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"June, who often goes by Kerry, serves as Technology Editor of ZDNET and is based in New York City. He reviews the latest consumer gadgets and shares advice to make the most out of them. When June isn't drooling over the next best thing, he's probably being let down by the Los Angeles Lakers.",profile:c,title:"Technology Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"256e4013-468c-431c-99dc-0325461daf42\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Espresso Display (V2, 15-inch)\" data-rating=\"3\" data-like=\"Sleek industrial design ~ Touchscreen support for MacOS ~ Plug-and-play via USB-C ~ Magnetic mount is great for landscape and portrait use\" data-dislike=\"Expensive ~ Monitor is wobbly ~ Glossy display is not ideal ~ Speakers are subpar\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"07\" data-editorsyear=\"2022\" data-editorsdate=\""2022-07-03T14:23:00.859Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"07\" data-innovationyear=\"2022\" data-innovationdate=\""2022-07-03T14:23:00.859Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"5fa2dd94-d23d-4ff2-9323-50de89237faa","filename":"espresso-monitor-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F06\u002F5fa2dd94-d23d-4ff2-9323-50de89237faa\u002Fespresso-monitor-1.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-06 14:38:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"5fa2dd94-d23d-4ff2-9323-50de89237faa","imageFilename":"espresso-monitor-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F06"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"499","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Espresso","offerPrice":"499","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fespres.so\u002Fproducts\u002Fespressodisplays?","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhether you're working from home, the office, or a bit of both, chances are you've considered adding a monitor or two to your computing setup. While choosing the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fhow-to-choose-the-right-monitor-layout-for-working-from-home\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eright monitor layout\u003C\u002Fa\u003E can be a pain in the rear, a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-portable-monitor\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eportable monitor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is a great starting point. They're mobile, take up less space than traditional displays, and often come at a cheaper price. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3b5b0eef-d91b-4939-97c4-faaaee2ae059\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3b5b0eef-d91b-4939-97c4-faaaee2ae059\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat mostly holds true with the Espresso Display V2, save for the cheaper price bit. Fundamentally, the Display V2 serves as a primary or secondary screen, mirroring or extending from your desktop, laptop, or mobile device -- much like every other portable monitor. Where the Display V2 differentiates itself is in design and form factor, which the company touts as the thinnest and lightest on the market. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 15-inch touchscreen model that I've been testing \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"102c0db6-f55a-4e15-8343-c98b8490a0ab\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"costs $499\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, which isn't the most expensive portable monitor out there, but it's a marginal step up from the sub-$200 offerings that you'd typically find on \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"3b18fab9-5438-427e-a4fc-dd75518870d3\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fs?k=portable+monitor&i=electronics&crid=24ZP2PE8N0I59&sprefix=portable+monitor%2Celectronics%2C82&ref=nb_sb_noss_1\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Amazon\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Here's my review of it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESpecifications\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESize\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E359x256x5.3mm\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDisplay\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1920x1080p at 60Hz\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBrightness\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E300 nits\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAspect ratio\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E16:9\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWeight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E865g\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuild material\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAluminum\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECompatibility\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMac, Windows, Android, iOS, tablets\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd spellcheck=\"false\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"877a57b3-edfc-4f67-82d0-460d608130e0\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$499\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for minimalists\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c8c2b063-cf14-455b-878d-65a0f0db1ab3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe 15-inch display produces punchy and sharp-looking images. I wish it was matte instead of glossy, though.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"espresso-monitor-ports\" data-image-filename=\"espresso-monitor-display1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPart of the reason for Espresso's lofty asking price is its industrial design. The Display V2's record-setting claim is backed by 5.3mm of thickness and 620g (for the 13-inch model). The monitor is as thin as portable monitors come, which makes it excellent for slipping into a backpack, flexing around the home office, and carrying from place to place. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEqually impressive is the aeronautical-grade, aluminum unibody that gives the Display V2 its sturdy and metallic figure. Typically with cheaper monitors (often made with plastic), you'll hear the slightest creaking when moving them around and fidgeting between orientations. That hasn't been the case with this model, and I've felt comfortable enough tucking it in a bag with my laptop, books, and all. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d525a901-64a3-42dd-881c-b6b07048dd9c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EDon't worry, a hidden layer of cushioning separates the Display V2 from the laptop.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"espresso-monitor-backpack\" data-image-filename=\"espresso-monitor-backpack.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe monitor has two USB-C ports for display connection and nothing more. Gone is the 3.5mm headphone jack that was on the V1 model, and you won't find any HDMI or USB port on the monitor, either. This can be a dealbreaker for some, especially if you're eyeing a portable monitor to use as a standalone device. At the same time, the minimal, one-cable-rules-all approach is what makes the Display V2 as thin as it is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-portable-monitor\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBest portable monitors to get work done\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow it works\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt this point, I should mention that the Display V2, by default, is sold as a monitor only. The magnetic stand that turns it into a mini iMac display costs extra ($69), as do all the other practical accessories that Espresso suggests you use. From my week of using the monitor, I think the magnetic stand plays too significant of a role to be sold separately. Not only does it allow you to easily rotate the Display V2 from landscape to portrait mode, but it offers two tilt points for flexible viewing. I'd happily pay for the accessory, but I wish I didn't have to.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e8a271a0-fbff-4be4-98b4-1cce390c121f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe optional magnetic stand is thin and can be folded down when not used.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"espresso-monitor-thinness\" data-image-filename=\"espresso-monitor-thinness.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESetting up the Display V2 was as simple as connecting the monitor to my primary device via the included USB-C cable. Unfortunately, other USB-C cables would register the Display V2 as a touchpad and not a monitor, so you'll want to keep the bundled cable safe and secure (but if you want a $499 touchpad, then that's cool, too).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI tested the Display V2 with a MacBook Pro, Windows desktop, and Android phone, all of which successfully detected the monitor and naturally extended their content onto it soon after. With a 16:9, 60Hz, 1920 x 1080p panel, the Display V2 does an adequate job of displaying webpages, pictures, and videos. You can connect it to a Nintendo Switch as well, but don't expect the best graphics and performance, even at $499.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make the most out of the touchscreen, you'll want to download \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"63122928-b827-4c9b-811b-de9bc829421f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fespres.so\u002Fdownload\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Espresso Flow\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, a Mac- and Windows-supported software that enables multi-touch gestures and motion-based detection for when you rotate the monitor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fhow-to-choose-the-right-monitor-layout-for-working-from-home\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to choose the right monitor layout for WFH\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5ac88c1c-8213-4644-b06e-72f70c0cc139\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPortrait orientation is great for long-form, vertical content.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"espresso-monitor-vertical\" data-image-filename=\"espresso-monitor-vertical.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are bottom-firing speakers on the monitor, but you're better off using the native one(s) of your connected device. It's certainly astounding how Espresso managed to cram a functioning speaker into the chassis, but in its pursuit of slimness, the actual audio performance takes a major hit. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFinally, a touchscreen for Mac\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIndustrial achievements aside, the Display V2 impressed me the most by doing something that even Apple cannot: giving touchscreen support for my MacBook. As many \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-results-are-in-zdnets-linkedin-fans-want-a-touchscreen-macbook-too\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZDNET contributors and readers have opined\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a MacBook with a touchscreen would make one of the best productivity machines even better. While the Display V2 doesn't turn your actual MacBook display into a touchscreen, it does replicate the content, allowing you to interact with taps, presses, and swipes. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile it was fun interacting with MacOS in a different manner, the operating system was not designed for it. That means that certain elements, like the red exit button in Safari, are way too small to tap on. Expect frequent mis-presses that only Espresso's \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"d9c0dfd7-1328-4829-8493-f5789911fea3\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fespres.so\u002Fespresso-sketch\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$79 stylus\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E can solve.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdear-apple-we-need-a-touchscreen-macbook-the-surface-laptop-studio-proves-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDear Apple, we need a touchscreen MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5fa2dd94-d23d-4ff2-9323-50de89237faa\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOne cable is all that separates Apple's reluctance and a touchscreen MacBook dream.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"espresso-monitor-1\" data-image-filename=\"espresso-monitor-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"5bcef1b8-3e3a-4240-a94d-c364e0ad653b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the Espresso Display V2\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"c8c2b063-cf14-455b-878d-65a0f0db1ab3","filename":"espresso-monitor-display1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F06\u002Fc8c2b063-cf14-455b-878d-65a0f0db1ab3\u002Fespresso-monitor-display1.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-06 16:43:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"c8c2b063-cf14-455b-878d-65a0f0db1ab3","imageFilename":"espresso-monitor-display1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F06"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442\" data-offerprice=\"499\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EShould you buy it?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"5ae6f80b-b99a-42b0-9e50-d080f3a37e5f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fespresso-Display-Touchscreen-Portable-External\u002Fdp\u002FB09WMX6442\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Espresso Display V2\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is the thinnest portable monitor in the world, which means, by design, there are benefits and drawbacks. For traveling business people, hybrid workers, and digital nomads, the enhanced portability and simple set-up will be greatly appreciated. For remote and stationary workers, the ability to flex between display orientations and interact via touch comes in handy. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe things I'd watch out for are the subpar speakers, additional upcharges for accessories, and the glossy display panel, especially if you work near windows. If you can shoulder these limitations, then the Espresso Display V2 is as good as portable monitors get.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAlternatives to consider\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStill on the fence? Here are some formidable alternatives to the espresso Display V2:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"06ffefe2-27c2-40e0-96a0-6864c60eb817\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Lenovo ThinkVision M14t\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"180633ce-8788-4e3d-bf8f-fd824f697f0e","filename":"lenovo-thinkvision-m14t.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F08\u002F180633ce-8788-4e3d-bf8f-fd824f697f0e\u002Flenovo-thinkvision-m14t.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-08 15:46:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"180633ce-8788-4e3d-bf8f-fd824f697f0e","imageFilename":"lenovo-thinkvision-m14t.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F08"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FThinkVision-USB-C-Mobile-Monitor-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB08L6SLRG6\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Flenovo-thinkvision-m14t-14-led-mobile-monitor-with-touch-screen-169-14-class-1920-x-1080-full-hd-black\u002F6474460.p?&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Lenovo ThinkVision M14t is another touchscreen-enabled, portable monitor that supports USB-C passthrough. While not as flexible as espresso's monitor-stand setup, you're still able to tilt the display up and down and station it in portrait mode. There are no built-in speakers, though. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"e8249d60-a9ab-46e5-9629-2ec5e734773d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"ASUS ROG Strix 17.3'' Gaming Monitor\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"asus-rog-strix-portable-monitor.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"ASUS","imageData":{"id":"bbc45019-b0fa-43d0-8a8d-f25d36590081","filename":"asus-rog-strix-portable-monitor.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F21\u002Fbbc45019-b0fa-43d0-8a8d-f25d36590081\u002Fasus-rog-strix-portable-monitor.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-21 13:20:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"bbc45019-b0fa-43d0-8a8d-f25d36590081","imageFilename":"asus-rog-strix-portable-monitor.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F21"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"ASUS\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0845Y1FRN\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're eyeing a portable monitor for on-the-go gaming, then check out the ASUS ROG Strix. It has a much larger panel at 17.3 inches and refreshes at 240Hz (compared to the espresso's 60Hz). ASUS also crammed in a built-in battery that should last up to three hours per charge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"5a771170-1a9d-41b8-afe1-9d45b10e33aa\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"ViewSonic 15.6'' Touchscreen Monitor\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"viewsonic-15-6-touchscreen.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"2f8401dd-d267-42f3-a188-5a8bd52f4f79","filename":"viewsonic-15-6-touchscreen.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F08\u002F2f8401dd-d267-42f3-a188-5a8bd52f4f79\u002Fviewsonic-15-6-touchscreen.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-07-08 15:53:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"2f8401dd-d267-42f3-a188-5a8bd52f4f79","imageFilename":"viewsonic-15-6-touchscreen.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F07\u002F08"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FViewSonic-Portable-Touchscreen-Frameless-TD1655\u002Fdp\u002FB08778F756\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a no-frills portable monitor, we'd recommend this 15.6-inch, touchscreen offering from ViewSonic. It's not competing with espresso to be the thinnest display out there; the thick side tray houses two USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-11-11 19:47:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Review: The Espresso Display V2 has a 15-inch panel that's just 5.3mm thin while giving touchscreen functionality to Mac and Windows computers.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"882424ae-c78a-4826-bf4c-3f0bfcf66bcf",image:{id:"c0c684dc-4ccb-41b7-b310-1612da40d83e",filename:"espresso-monitor-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-07-06 15:33:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"espresso-monitor-thinness",credits:"June Wan\u002FZDNet",caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F06\u002Fc0c684dc-4ccb-41b7-b310-1612da40d83e\u002Fespresso-monitor-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:6000,height:3376,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Smart Office^Office Hardware & Appliances",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"want-a-touchscreen-macbook-this-portable-monitor-makes-it-possible",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Want a touchscreen MacBook? This portable monitor makes it possible",topic:{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"6b5d3adf-f429-447b-b93f-469fefe712c5",slug:"office-furniture",name:"Office Furniture",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9c20cf52-798b-46f0-9742-01999d97a167",username:"Lena Borrelli",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lena",lastName:"Borrelli",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"302892f5-e22d-48c6-91a3-5d45643222c9",filename:"lena-borrelli-author.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-07-06 17:17:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F07\u002F06\u002F302892f5-e22d-48c6-91a3-5d45643222c9\u002Flena-borrelli-author.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lena Muhtadi Borrelli has several years of experience in writing for insurance domains such as Bankrate, allconnect, Healthline, Reviews.com, HomeInsurance.com, My Slumber Yard and MYMOVE. She is a financial expert who previously worked for Morgan Stanley and now specializes in all forms of insurance. Her work has also recently been published on sites like TIME, ADT, Fiscal Tiger, Bankrate, The Simple Dollar and Home Advisor, as well as many other websites and blogs around the world.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"8659adee-a847-4b1f-aab5-6811b20e36aa\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F8659adee-a847-4b1f-aab5-6811b20e36aa\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince 2012, the Microsoft Surface PC line has been a wildly popular solution to computing. Users who want an alternative to Apple greatly appreciate Microsoft's user-friendly Windows operating system, and most of these touchscreen PCs integrate Microsoft's exclusive Intel processors. These personal computers are also more affordable than other types of laptops. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface PCs have come a long way over the years, expanding their hardware and features with each new model. But which is the best Surface PC for you? I rounded up the best Surface PC devices based on price, display size, and processor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-computer\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELooking for a new computer? Our favorite Mac, Windows, Chromebook picks\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1c97cd3b-4dea-4328-b63d-27202e2dd421\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Laptop 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;specs: Processor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Intel Evo i5, i7 | \u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Windows 11 | \u003Cstrong\u003ESize:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 13.5 inches, 15 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E8GB, 16 GB, 32GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Laptop 5 is the overall best Surface PC available today. The device features a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor and runs on Microsoft 11 operating system. The system memory measures eight gigabytes with a 256-gigabyte Solid State Drive (SSD) for faster performance. It incorporates dual far-field Studio microphones with Dolby Atmos for sound. Plus, Intel Iris XE Graphics with Dolby Vision IQ ensures a phenomenal on-screen picture.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe PixelSense touchscreen is available in your choice of two sizes, for flexibility that's not always offered with laptops. With an 18-hour battery life, you have plenty of time to complete projects and daily tasks before needing to charge.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-5-hands-on-this-looks-familiar\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 hands-on: This looks familiar...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Laptop 5\" data-superlative=\"Best Surface PC overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Laptop 5","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"8cea77a1-eac3-4cb1-9764-5990a5f04327","title":"microsoft-surface-laptop-5-closed","filename":"microsoft-surface-laptop-5-closed.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F24\u002F8cea77a1-eac3-4cb1-9764-5990a5f04327\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-5-closed.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":852779,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2022-10-24 20:52:51","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-10-24 20:53:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET","alt":"Microsoft's Surface Laptop 5 closed, on a desk","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"8cea77a1-eac3-4cb1-9764-5990a5f04327","imageAltText":"Surface Laptop 5","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"microsoft-surface-laptop-5-closed.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F10\u002F24","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Michael Gariffo\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Lightweight-Processor-Multi-Tasking-Platinum\u002Fdp\u002FB0B8QDBFVQ?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"899.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Lightweight-Processor-Multi-Tasking-Platinum\u002Fdp\u002FB0B8QDBFVQ","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Lightweight-Processor-Multi-Tasking-Platinum\u002Fdp\u002FB0B8QDBFVQ?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-touch-screen-intel-evo-platform-core-i5-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-platinum%2F6517655.p%3FskuId%3D6517655&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"899.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-touch-screen-intel-evo-platform-core-i5-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-platinum\u002F6517655.p?skuId=6517655","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-touch-screen-intel-evo-platform-core-i5-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-platinum%2F6517655.p%3FskuId%3D6517655&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Touchscreen ~ Fantastic battery ~ Slim build\" data-dislike=\"~ No USB-C ~ Lacks fingerprint scanner\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"356e1450-6054-4c86-89d7-1238a5a0f28c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Go 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;specs: Processor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Intel Core m3 | \u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EWindows 10 Pro |\u003Cstrong\u003E Size: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E10.5 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Go 2 is a small, portable Surface PC that's easy to carry between classes. It's far more lightweight than other models, weighing just 2.5 pounds, but that doesn't mean it skimps on features. It uses an 11th-generation Intel Core i5 processor that enables quick navigation between apps and programs. Plus, it features a precision trackpad and 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Go 2 features a new HD camera for better visuals with integrated Studio Mics and Omnisonic Speakers with Dolby Audio. One-touch sign-in keeps your files secure while enhancing efficiency during daily use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-go-2\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Go 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Go 2\" data-superlative=\"Best Surface PC for students\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Go 2","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"8397ac5b-205c-4ce5-b77a-1ffca5328648","title":"Surface Go 2","filename":"surface-go-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F8397ac5b-205c-4ce5-b77a-1ffca5328648\u002Fsurface-go-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":59116,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 21:27:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 21:28:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fd\u002Fsurface-go-3\u002F904h27d0cbwn?activetab=pivot:overviewtab","alt":"Surface Go 2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"8397ac5b-205c-4ce5-b77a-1ffca5328648","imageAltText":"Surface Go 2","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surface-go-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Go-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB086QRQVD5?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"272","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Go-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB086QRQVD5","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Go-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB086QRQVD5?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-go-2-12-4-touch-screen-intel-core-i5-8gb-memory-128gb-ssd-latest-model-sage%2F6505200.p%3FskuId%3D6505200&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"599.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-go-2-12-4-touch-screen-intel-core-i5-8gb-memory-128gb-ssd-latest-model-sage\u002F6505200.p?skuId=6505200","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-go-2-12-4-touch-screen-intel-core-i5-8gb-memory-128gb-ssd-latest-model-sage%2F6505200.p%3FskuId%3D6505200&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Compact build ~ Windows 11 ~ Versatile design\" data-dislike=\"~ Mediocre battery ~ Smaller keyboard\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"469906dd-1f0d-47fc-a0c8-ecfadc60774e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Go 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;specs: Processor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Intel Pentium Gold, Intel Core i3&nbsp; | \u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Windows 11 | \u003Cstrong\u003ESize: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E10.5 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 64 GB, 128 GB\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you don't want to spend a ton, the Surface Go 3 is the best budget-friendly Surface PC to help save you a few bucks on a high-performing machine. You can choose between an Intel Pentium or Intel Core i3 processor, depending on the kind of power you need and how much you have to spend.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 2-in-1 design makes operation a breeze, giving you more options with touchscreen and digital pen compatibility. With Windows 11 as your operating system, you can enjoy a portable, high-performing 10.5-inch touchscreen with 1280p resolution for enhanced viewing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-go-3-review-but-battery-life-disappoints\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Go 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Go 3\" data-superlative=\"Best budget Surface PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Go 3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"c3711257-d13f-41f3-92d3-4d94a27d2a85","title":"Surface Go 3","filename":"surface-go-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002Fc3711257-d13f-41f3-92d3-4d94a27d2a85\u002Fsurface-go-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":53814,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 21:29:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 21:29:50","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Surface Go 3","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"c3711257-d13f-41f3-92d3-4d94a27d2a85","imageAltText":"Surface Go 3","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surface-go-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-Go-Touchscreen-Pentium%C2%AE\u002Fdp\u002FB093X3H44Y?th=1&tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"469","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-Go-Touchscreen-Pentium%C2%AE\u002Fdp\u002FB093X3H44Y?th=1","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-Go-Touchscreen-Pentium%C2%AE\u002Fdp\u002FB093X3H44Y?th=1&tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-go-3-10-5-touch-screen-intel-pentium-gold-8gb-memory-128gb-ssd-device-only-latest-model-platinum%2F6478762.p%3FskuId%3D6478762&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"469","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-go-3-10-5-touch-screen-intel-pentium-gold-8gb-memory-128gb-ssd-device-only-latest-model-platinum\u002F6478762.p?skuId=6478762","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-go-3-10-5-touch-screen-intel-pentium-gold-8gb-memory-128gb-ssd-device-only-latest-model-platinum%2F6478762.p%3FskuId%3D6478762&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Excellent speakers ~ Decent battery ~ Integrated 1080p webcam\" data-dislike=\"~ No accessories ~ Single USB-C port\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"36f56f6b-397d-4f01-88cc-04780c8ec21e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Laptop Studio\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;specs: Processor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Intel Core i5, i7 | \u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EWindows 11 | \u003Cstrong\u003ESize:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 14.4 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Laptop Studio features a quad-core 11th Generation Intel Core H Series processor for super fast speeds. The built-in storage extends to double the size of lesser PCs, and the 14.4-inch touchscreen features a vivid 120Hz display.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith factory-calibrated PixelSense Flow technology and Dolby Vision IQ, this Surface PC automatically adjusts to ambient light when playing certain content, ensuring an enjoying viewing experience for you. The premium Quad Omnisonic speakers are an upgrade from other models, delivering far better sound with Dolby Atmos. You can even charge your Surface Slim Pen 2 using a port conveniently located under the keyboard.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-studio-review\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Laptop Studio\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Laptop Studio\" data-superlative=\"Best Surface PC for professionals\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Laptop Studio","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"24b52a6d-e5e4-46a1-a71d-0e21d904fab3","title":"Surface Laptop Studio","filename":"surface-laptop-studio.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F24b52a6d-e5e4-46a1-a71d-0e21d904fab3\u002Fsurface-laptop-studio.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":69558,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 21:34:33","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 21:34:44","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Surface Laptop Studio","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"24b52a6d-e5e4-46a1-a71d-0e21d904fab3","imageAltText":"Surface Laptop Studio","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surface-laptop-studio.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-2736x1824-Touchscreen-i5-8250U\u002Fdp\u002FB07XC2XGR9?th=1&tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"1679.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-2736x1824-Touchscreen-i5-8250U\u002Fdp\u002FB07XC2XGR9?th=1","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-2736x1824-Touchscreen-i5-8250U\u002Fdp\u002FB07XC2XGR9?th=1&tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-studio-14-4-touch-screen-intel-core-i7-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3050-ti-512gb-ssd-platinum%2F6478302.p%3FskuId%3D6478302&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"2099.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-studio-14-4-touch-screen-intel-core-i7-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3050-ti-512gb-ssd-platinum\u002F6478302.p?skuId=6478302","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-studio-14-4-touch-screen-intel-core-i7-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3050-ti-512gb-ssd-platinum%2F6478302.p%3FskuId%3D6478302&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Comfortable design ~ Dolby Vision ~ Fantastic battery\" data-dislike=\"~ Limited ports ~ Accessories extra\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6ab35f87-8b80-4469-9fda-6be28c62bfd7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Pro 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003Especs: Processor: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EIntel Core i5, i7 | \u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EWindows 11 | \u003Cstrong\u003ESize: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E13 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 8GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Pro 9 uses the Intel Evo platform with a 12th-generation Intel Core processor. I love the display on this Surface PC, and the 13-inch edge-to-edge PixelSense touchscreen incorporates Dolby Vision. Working with both hand and pen, you have ultimate control over your work.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe adjustable kickstand delivers comfort and flexibility, allowing you to choose between tablet or PC mode, depending on your mood. Plus, it has a fun design with several colors to choose between.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-9-review-impressive-but-is-it-worth-the-price-of-an-m2-macbook-air\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurface Pro 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Pro 9\" data-superlative=\"Best convertible Surface PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Pro 9","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"1ecd9573-8386-43bf-99b8-97e42bd684c4","title":"Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Touchscreen Display","filename":"microsoft-surface-pro-9-touchscreen-display.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F24\u002F1ecd9573-8386-43bf-99b8-97e42bd684c4\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-9-touchscreen-display.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":724685,"width":3000,"height":1688,"dateCreated":{"date":"2022-10-24 19:37:50","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-10-24 19:38:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Touchscreen Display","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"1ecd9573-8386-43bf-99b8-97e42bd684c4","imageAltText":"Surface Pro 9","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"microsoft-surface-pro-9-touchscreen-display.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F10\u002F24","imageWidth":3000,"imageHeight":1688,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Lightweight-Processor-Multi-Tasking-Sapphire\u002Fdp\u002FB0B9Q7VDG4?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"972","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Lightweight-Processor-Multi-Tasking-Sapphire\u002Fdp\u002FB0B9Q7VDG4","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Lightweight-Processor-Multi-Tasking-Sapphire\u002Fdp\u002FB0B9Q7VDG4?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-9-13-touch-screen-intel-evo-platform-core-i7-16gb-memory-256gb-ssd-device-only-latest-model-graphite%2F6517665.p%3FskuId%3D6517665&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"1599.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-9-13-touch-screen-intel-evo-platform-core-i7-16gb-memory-256gb-ssd-device-only-latest-model-graphite\u002F6517665.p?skuId=6517665","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-pro-9-13-touch-screen-intel-evo-platform-core-i7-16gb-memory-256gb-ssd-device-only-latest-model-graphite%2F6517665.p%3FskuId%3D6517665&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ AI features ~ Superior display ~ Reliable build\" data-dislike=\"~ No accessories included ~ Lacks headphone jack\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9f24b3a2-4ce7-4232-9317-e58e97b525f5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Laptop 5 is the best Surface PC you can buy. With flexible display sizes and strong i5 and i7 processors, it offers the type of power and customization most users want in their laptop. Here is an overview of the best surface PCs, and how they compare.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest Surface PC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECost\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay size\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Laptop 5\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$900\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E13.5 inches, 15 inches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Evo i5, i7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Go 2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$272\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10.5 inches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Core m3\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Go 3\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$469\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10.5 inches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Pentium Gold, Intel Core i3\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Laptop Studio\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1,680\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E14.4 inches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Core i5, i7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Pro 9\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$972\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E13 inches\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Core i5, i7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best Surface PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b6939ec3-0910-42e8-9554-aa8b2c5d8cf2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETrying to find the best Surface PC for your needs can be tough. You should consider your priorities and whether budget, features, or battery life is most important to you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConsider my recommendations to help with your search.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChoose this best Surface PC...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you want...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Laptop 5\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExcellent value and flexibility\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Go 2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA budget-friendly Surface PC for school\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Go 3\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap 2-in-1 Surface PC&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Laptop Studio\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA Surface PC worthy of creators and power users\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface Pro 9\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best 2-in-1 Microsoft has to offer\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the best Surface PC for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f0c838e6-ee05-429a-a07a-5c8d42b24017\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen choosing the best Surface PCs, we consider a number of critical factors that can also help in your search, including these.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay size: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThere are several different screen sizes available, ranging from 10.5 inches to 15 inches. Before you buy, consider if you want a compact computer or something with a larger screen for increased visibility.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EMicrosoft Surface PCs notably use the Windows operating system, as seen with the best Surface PCs here.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E There are several storage sizes you can purchase for your Surface PC, with storage available as low as 8 GB all the way to 2 TB. It depends on how many files you have and much storage you need.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EIf you plan on taking your Surface PC on the go, you may not always have access to power for charging. A computer is hardly worth it if it never works, so be sure to consider the battery life of each Surface PC. Some last far longer than others, giving you more time to work while traveling.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBudget:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E We know that budget is different for everyone, so we look for a range of prices when comparing models. The best Surface PCs differ in price, with costs ranging from under $300&nbsp;to almost $1,700, depending on the option you choose.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these best Surface PCs?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9714deda-f9b6-4180-85cd-e467fade45ec\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Surface PCs are personal computers by name, but they are often convertible models that feature 2-in-1 capabilities. This gives you a PC and a tablet in the same package. Enjoy special features like a touchscreen display and a built-in kickstand with an optional keyboard to mimic a PC. You'll also receive USB and Wi-Fi connectivity with an easily portable design most similar to a tablet. This dual functionality makes using it all the more enjoyable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is Microsoft Surface a tablet or computer?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9aed8677-8918-40d9-ac73-c732a8348b64\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt depends on what you are looking for. We love Microsoft Surface PCs because they incorporate the best features of both a tablet and a laptop while adding enhanced portability. Features like the touchscreen, kickstand, and keyboard cover are all welcome additions to your standard PC. It's also important to remember that a PC is significantly heavier, with extra weight coming from extra storage and processing power.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurface PCs are not as generous with port selection, making your standard laptop a better option for more in-depth projects and enhanced connectivity. Consider how you plan to use your device and then decide which is best for you. At the end of the day, you receive far greater flexibility when you choose the 2-in-1 makeup of the Microsoft Surface.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is a Microsoft Surface PC better than a laptop?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e6c4b0d0-e9a7-4c8b-88c9-d6363a996b14\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOne of the best parts about Surface PCs is affordability,&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eespecially\u003C\u002Fem\u003E when compared to your average laptop. The best Surface PCs range in cost from less than $300 to under $1,700, costing thousands of dollars less than other top computers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cheapest Surface PC on our list is the Surface Go 2, which retails for less than $275, while the most expensive is the Surface Laptop Studio at around $1,700. If you're looking for something more middle of the road, the Surface Go 3 is also an affordable choice. Ultimately, you should compare specs to ensure you find the right Surface PC for your personal or professional needs.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much do the best Surface PCs cost?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3ae647c7-8f3b-4253-9fcf-1036908c9518\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn our search, we also considered these best Surface PCs that may also be worth a second look.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative best Surface PCs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f3726b03-4808-4b57-9108-2e27b7966873\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPacked with power, the Surface Book 3 delivers impressive performance with excellent versatility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Book 3\" data-superlative=\"Best Surface PC for versatility\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Book 3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"b9199bfa-239b-4aee-8d3a-e2a5ab2fb514","title":"Surface Book 3","filename":"surface-book-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F28\u002Fb9199bfa-239b-4aee-8d3a-e2a5ab2fb514\u002Fsurface-book-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":129759,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-28 13:49:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-28 13:49:23","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","alt":"surface-book-3","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"b9199bfa-239b-4aee-8d3a-e2a5ab2fb514","imageAltText":"Surface Book 3","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surface-book-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F28","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"MOST VERSATILE\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Book-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB086QRJX6X?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"730","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Book-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB086QRJX6X","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Book-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB086QRJX6X?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4ee7aa40-f49d-4dac-b7d2-2fda47981987\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Duo is easy to take with you on the road. Enjoy its portable design that doesn't skimp on performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Duo\" data-superlative=\"Best Surface PC for portability\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Duo","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"14ae7e3b-3088-4c25-95ef-9391f9ab1a69","title":"Surface Duo","filename":"surface-duo.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F14ae7e3b-3088-4c25-95ef-9391f9ab1a69\u002Fsurface-duo.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":36205,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 14:25:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 14:28:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsurface\u002Fdevices\u002Fsurface-duo","alt":"Surface Duo","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"14ae7e3b-3088-4c25-95ef-9391f9ab1a69","imageAltText":"Surface Duo","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surface-duo.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"MOST PORTABLE\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-128GB-Unlocked\u002Fdp\u002FB08JTDPRM1?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-128GB-Unlocked\u002Fdp\u002FB08JTDPRM1","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-128GB-Unlocked\u002Fdp\u002FB08JTDPRM1?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3b89a386-f37b-41bd-8407-4fad279f0c4a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt's not only about laptops. The desktop Surface PC is a fantastic fit when you want the best desktop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surface Studio 2+\" data-superlative=\"Best desktop Surface PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surface Studio 2+","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charles McLellan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"02865cf4-c2d8-4b00-8af1-e4bcf4dbb075","title":"Surface Studio 2+","filename":"surface-studio-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F28\u002F02865cf4-c2d8-4b00-8af1-e4bcf4dbb075\u002Fsurface-studio-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":422102,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-28 16:46:42","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-28 16:46:58","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charles McLellan\u002FZDNET","alt":"surface-studio-2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"02865cf4-c2d8-4b00-8af1-e4bcf4dbb075","imageAltText":"Surface Studio 2+","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charles McLellan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surface-studio-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F28","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charles McLellan\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"BEST DESKTOP SURFACE PC\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-studio-2-28-touch-screen-all-in-one-intel-core-i7-32gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3060-1tb-ssd-platinum%2F6520387.p%3FskuId%3D6520387&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"4499.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-studio-2-28-touch-screen-all-in-one-intel-core-i7-32gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3060-1tb-ssd-platinum\u002F6520387.p?skuId=6520387","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmicrosoft-surface-studio-2-28-touch-screen-all-in-one-intel-core-i7-32gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-3060-1tb-ssd-platinum%2F6520387.p%3FskuId%3D6520387&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor other options, check out our top picks for the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003Ebest Windows laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-gaming-pc\u002F\"\u003Ebest gaming PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-all-in-one-computer\u002F\"\u003Ebest all-in-one computers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E! \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-03-28 16:24:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"After looking at the best Surface PCs on the market, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is still my favorite. Here's why.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"fd47330e-b2e2-47f7-b4d1-8fa298cf1035",image:{id:"7942efd8-9a62-4f87-a05c-4f0d5184c218",filename:"surface-laptop-5.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-02-24 00:06:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"surfacelaptop4rumors.jpg",credits:"Credit: Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F02\u002F24\u002F7942efd8-9a62-4f87-a05c-4f0d5184c218\u002Fsurface-laptop-5.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1296,height:720,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^PCs",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:"The best Surface PCs: Microsoft's top devices reviewed and compared",section:b,slug:"best-surface-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Best Surface PCs of 2023: Expert reviewed and compared",topic:{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"84261707-5816-4c70-94b1-98f8902b4739",username:"sshibu",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Sherin",lastName:"Shibu",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8efd843a-7142-4081-bcd1-3b6c654432e4",filename:"headshot.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-22 15:09:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F22\u002F8efd843a-7142-4081-bcd1-3b6c654432e4\u002Fheadshot.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Sherin Shibu started writing professionally eight years ago at a national startup. Since then she has written for publications centered on tech, startups, innovation, politics, and financial services, including PCMag, Business Insider, InvestmentWires, GovLoop, and Thrive Global. She lives in Queens, NY.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"c5e7e27a-e814-4cb1-8ad5-0b1c4114e767\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Duolingo\" data-rating=\"3.5\" data-like=\"~Desktop and mobile apps are user-friendly ~Range of questions for 19 distinct languages ~Variety of platforms ~Bite-sized lessons\" data-dislike=\"~Can feel overly gamified ~Not for someone who needs to learn a language quickly ~ Requires external practice to master a language\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"05\" data-editorsyear=\"2022\" data-editorsdate=\""2022-05-02T15:33:42.541Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"05\" data-innovationyear=\"2022\" data-innovationdate=\""2022-05-02T15:33:42.541Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"05c3df5c-c786-4486-9a0a-58fba40a87c8","filename":"learner-with-duolingo-app-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F17\u002F05c3df5c-c786-4486-9a0a-58fba40a87c8\u002Flearner-with-duolingo-app-2.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-06-17 14:01:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"05c3df5c-c786-4486-9a0a-58fba40a87c8","imageFilename":"learner-with-duolingo-app-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F06\u002F17"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Duolingo","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"www.duolingo.com","url":""}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy teenage brother isn't allowed to play online games. So he plays Duolingo.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe popular language-learning app gamifies learning with bright colors, shiny medals, and sound effects (ping, whoosh, ta-da). It's free, and it gives constant positive reinforcement. There's an audible back and forth. Some prompts require you to speak in order to make it to the next question. You read, you actively recall what you've learned through in-app quizzes, and you learn.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStill, Duolingo's gamification is not for everyone. Serious learners may find the program to be overly quizzical, vexed by the idea of levels and a progress system. In this review, I'll approach it as a complete beginner on different platforms and walk you through my impressions, including whether or not I think Duolingo alone can help you become proficient in a new language.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETable of Contents \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=Alternatives%20to%20consider-,Specifications,-Available%20languages\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESpecifications \u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=language%20learning%20works-,Duolingo%20on%20desktop,-A%20great%20aspect\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWalkthrough of Duolingo on desktop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=Duolingo%20on%20iOS\u002Fmobile%20app\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWalkthrough of Duolingo on mobile\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=Is%20Duolingo%20actually%20effective%3F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow effective is Duolingo?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=Two%20years%20of%20Duolingo\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E2 years of Duolingo\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=now%20at%20Duolingo-,Bottom%20line,-By%20bringing%20languages\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBottom line\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fduolingo-review\u002F#:~:text=Alternatives%20to%20consider%C2%A0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAlternatives to consider\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESpecifications\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAvailable languages\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd spellcheck=\"false\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESpanish, French, English, German, Japanese, Italian, Korean, Hindi, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese, Turkish, Dutch, Latin, Swedish, Greek, Irish, Polish, Norwegian, Hebrew, Vietnamese, Hawaiian, High Valyrian, Danish, Indonesian, Romanian, Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Czech, Swahili, Hungarian, Ukrainian, Klingon, Navajo, Esperanto, Finnish, Catalan, Haitian Creole, Ukrainian\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDownload type\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnline, Android, iOS, iPad OS, and Windows 11\u002F10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApproach\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImages, text, pictures, audio, verbal\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAssociated resources\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fpodcast.duolingo.com\u002F\"\u003EDuolingo Podcast\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERequirements\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDo not need to create an account right away to start learning\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow language learning works\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EDuolingo on desktop\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA great aspect of Duolingo is that you don't have to sign up right away to start learning. I decided to start with Spanish on my desktop and I had two options: Complete the intro lesson or take the placement test. My high school Spanish skills were many years out of use, but I tried to dust them off to take the placement test. It's about five minutes in length and it gets progressively harder. After a couple of minutes, I opted instead for the intro lesson. Completing the placement test can unlock many levels that you may have already mastered, giving you a leg up in the learning process. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1b570e99-8155-42a7-b22b-50e6f7025b97\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"spanish6\" data-image-filename=\"spanish6.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-crop=\"1098x579+0+1\" data-image-width=\"1099\" data-image-height=\"1222\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first question of the intro lesson made me appreciate the diversity of the characters. The background wasn't distracting and the question was clearly legible. The visuals helped me figure out the question. Duolingo doesn't strike me as an intimidating platform to start learning a language.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cf8bc86f-7d76-461e-b8cf-8561a09f1914\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"spanish1\" data-image-filename=\"spanish1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-crop=\"1139x640+0+217\" data-image-width=\"1139\" data-image-height=\"1172\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter the multiple-choice question, I had to answer a writing question, with blocks like \"the\" \"man\" and \"woman\" in place to prevent written typos on my part. I found the blocks to be a clever design tool. I also liked that you could hear the Spanish words spoken aloud. It made the experience feel multidimensional, and it encouraged me to try pronouncing the word myself -- as many times as I needed to to get it right. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"16be2bda-9f8f-4016-abdd-f4077cb9ede1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"spanish2\" data-image-filename=\"spanish2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-crop=\"1025x576+0+232\" data-image-width=\"1025\" data-image-height=\"1186\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThen came encouragement: A cute little green bird praising me for getting five questions right in a row! Thank you, little bird, that is amazing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bb0ea6dc-38d3-4d46-9276-74e839b866d2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"spanish3\" data-image-filename=\"spanish3.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-crop=\"482x271+229+887\" data-image-width=\"1139\" data-image-height=\"1196\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother type of question I saw was a listening question. I had to tap the screen to hear the audio and then I wrote down what I heard. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"af8587ef-6e2a-42e8-8132-d6acde71f33b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"spanish5\" data-image-filename=\"spanish5.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-crop=\"1089x612+0+218\" data-image-width=\"1089\" data-image-height=\"1200\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI appreciate the simplicity of the online interface. There's just enough information to encourage you to pay attention and the positive feedback keeps you going. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-language-learning-app\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe 7 best language learning apps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EDuolingo on iOS\u002Fmobile app\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWould the positives of Duolingo's web version hold true on its iPhone app? Yes, and I actually had a better experience on my phone than on my desktop. At the welcome screen, I started right away instead of logging in. The option to get started without disclosing my personal information immediately establishes trust. It gives me the power to test the technology and decide if I want to sign up.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c8a9f708-711a-4751-a135-8fa49f83bccd\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"chinese1\" data-image-filename=\"chinese1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"828\" data-image-height=\"1713\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a lot of languages available, but I wanted to try a language that I had no familiarity with at all to model how a beginner would approach the app. So I chose Chinese -- I've always wanted to learn but thought it might be too difficult for me. Let's see how Duolingo presents the language.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore starting the lesson, I had to answer a few questions about proficiency level (beginner) and motivation. I then chose how long I wanted to train per day and I was given the option to set daily reminders to meet my goal. I opted out of the daily reminder because I personally dislike having my phone cluttered with notifications, but you might find it useful. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7fbb4df3-b023-4a16-9ce2-492444e0a48a\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"chinese2\" data-image-filename=\"chinese2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"828\" data-image-height=\"1696\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI started learning from scratch. The first question I had to answer was an audio question: What sound does 好 make? The question was communicated through audio, and a voice said something that sounded like \"how\" when it came to the character 好. Of the three answer choices, nǐ, hǎo, and zài, hǎo sounded closest to what I had heard. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second question was a translation question that asked me to write \"你好\" in English. It was easy to figure out because I could hover over the question and see the translation as \"hello.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe third question asked me to recall the character I saw in the first question. When I clicked on an answer choice, I heard the corresponding sound. This was the third question:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dc9c1b6a-c803-4e54-bf6f-70d06a328ec0\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"chinese3\" data-image-filename=\"chinese3.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"828\" data-image-height=\"1696\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThankfully I remembered the character I had just seen. I liked the way that the questions built on each other.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe process of learning new characters and sounds was enjoyable. I was able to complete the first lesson and I found myself trying to write the characters on my own. It was a bite-sized lesson for sure, something you'd learn in the first three minutes of a Chinese class, but it was a step closer to understanding. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f680ad13-6437-4b4f-95c4-649b48da8963\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Duolingo\" data-image-alt-text=\"chinese4\" data-image-filename=\"chinese4.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"828\" data-image-height=\"1676\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy downloading the app and completing a lesson, I understood how Duolingo keeps students interested in the language: There are streaks, there are awards -- it's fun. It's language learning that keeps the big picture in mind without getting bogged down by the details, especially at first.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fa7894fc-5308-49cb-85a1-0637dd3c3074\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENot on its own. If you supplement Duolingo lessons with Duolingo stories or&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fevents.duolingo.com\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eeven a Duolingo event\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you'll maximize the free resources offered by the company and maybe even still not have a complete grasp of the language. Self-study is key here, meaning you should acquire workbooks and practice on your own time in addition to using Duolingo. I also think it's important to speak as you go through questions on Duolingo; for example, I tried saying 好 or hǎo out loud when a question popped up that mentioned it.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is Duolingo actually effective?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"61460043-8e3c-4254-95f8-5dcb9ea3e23c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe main disadvantage of Duolingo, and the reason why I question if you can become fully fluent with the platform, is the lack of practice. I've taken Italian classes for five years, Spanish for three years, and Intensive Catalan for a semester, all in school. I've pursued the self-study of many languages. In each of those endeavors, the amount of practice and work I put into reading, memorizing, and trying to speak the language correlated directly with my grasp of it. Nothing beats practice and hard work, especially because language acquisition depends on memorization in its early stages.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuolingo's message of learning a language in 10 or 20 minutes per day seems unrealistic even with the attention-drawing quizzes and games, especially considering that college language classes meet for at least three hours a week and assign homework that takes at least twice that time to complete. Even if you take four college classes spread out over four semesters or about two years, you're still only at an intermediate level. Duolingo's allocation of time for language learning seems paltry by comparison.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fcomputers-tech\u002Ffree-language-learning-apps\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFree language learning apps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can you become fluent with Duolingo?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9a49c66d-e9df-4a82-8042-dd470456a3b1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to achieve fluency within a couple of years, Duolingo should not be your only platform of learning, but it is a good supplement. As I used the app, I felt more like I was having fun and less like I was cramming conjugations in my brain. The slow pace might not be for everyone, though, and I've seen it used best as a practice tool to keep up in regular classes. I was impressed with Duolingo overall. It's a solid tool to start learning a language, but not one for total mastery.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is Duolingo still worth your time?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETwo years of Duolingo\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll things said and done, with enough commitment, Duolingo can be very beneficial to your language learning. My little brother is a Duolingo inspiration -- he started using it two years ago, when he was in sixth grade, and he still uses it. He rarely misses a day, and he's currently on a 143-day streak. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"It was easy to get started and understand all the concepts,\" he told me. \"It's good for learning vocabulary and brushing up on old topics. It's not the best learning platform for learning a language from scratch. If you have some knowledge of a language, it'll help you a lot.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"145bb05f-83a4-45f0-a110-dda2ab82f390\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EHis user profile.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sherin Shibu\" data-image-alt-text=\"img-0363\" data-image-filename=\"img-0363.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1620\" data-image-height=\"2160\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe started with French and expanded to Spanish, Hindi, and Italian.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"It helps a lot with understanding what's going on in class,\" he said. \"I'm able to understand what my French teacher says more easily.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe's currently in the silver league and he's received 275 crowns or skill completions. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"65f6caf2-12f8-4d2a-b064-39af7ed8a959\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EEach set gets progressively harder.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sherin Shibu\" data-image-alt-text=\"duolingostories\" data-image-filename=\"duolingostories.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1620\" data-image-height=\"2160\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe's also listened to 64 sets of stories in French, some of which require him to play a role in the story. I've heard the sounds of him on his iPad practicing Duolingo so often that I don't even register it anymore.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"14b94fa7-074c-417c-8d92-74fbd266b9b9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Duolingo\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Duolingo.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Duolingo","imageData":{"id":"f7e1c401-5210-4a8d-8576-46fa4acaf43a","filename":"screen-shot-2022-06-10-at-2-04-27-pm.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F10\u002Ff7e1c401-5210-4a8d-8576-46fa4acaf43a\u002Fscreen-shot-2022-06-10-at-2-04-27-pm.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-06-10 18:04:53","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"f7e1c401-5210-4a8d-8576-46fa4acaf43a","imageFilename":"screen-shot-2022-06-10-at-2-04-27-pm.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F06\u002F10"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Duolingo\" data-offerurl=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.duolingo.com\" data-offermerchant=\"Duolingo\" data-usemonetization=\"false\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBottom line\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy bringing languages from all over the world onto one platform, Duolingo creates more than just a way to broaden your linguistic capabilities -- it's also about broadening your horizons. The upbeat way that the company does this, with bright colors and interesting graphics, draws the eye. The encouragement makes Duolingo users feel as though they're making progress. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the United States, nearly 231 million Americans only speak English: That's about 80% of the population. Becoming fluent in another language doesn't just make you more worldly. It can be a huge advantage in the workplace.    \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAlternatives to consider \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"ff78e22d-0fe2-44fc-87d4-ebccaddc97d3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Memrise\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"memrise-master-ios-logo","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Memrise","imageData":{"id":"176f3c3a-54e3-40dc-958f-d4defaae0fa9","filename":"memrise-master-ios-logo.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F10\u002F176f3c3a-54e3-40dc-958f-d4defaae0fa9\u002Fmemrise-master-ios-logo.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-06-10 18:40:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"176f3c3a-54e3-40dc-958f-d4defaae0fa9","imageFilename":"memrise-master-ios-logo.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F06\u002F10"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Memrise\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.memrise.com\u002F\" data-offermerchant=\"Memrise\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmemrise.pxf.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F1040453\u002F13531?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.memrise.com\u002F&subId1=[subid_value]\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMemrise is another free language learning platform.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"ba0bac12-bb43-4867-a098-2b808b5a3b3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Pimsleur\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Pimsleur","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Apple App Store","imageData":{"id":"387bf278-4be8-45b6-8f90-c124dc0e8397","filename":"pimsleur.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F07\u002F01\u002F387bf278-4be8-45b6-8f90-c124dc0e8397\u002Fpimsleur.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2021-07-01 15:18:50","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"387bf278-4be8-45b6-8f90-c124dc0e8397","imageFilename":"pimsleur.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F07\u002F01"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Apple App Store\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pimsleur.com\u002F\" data-offerprice=\"20\" data-offermerchant=\"Pimsleur\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fimp.i271380.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F812637\u002F11472?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pimsleur.com\u002F&subId1=[subid_value]\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA trusted method based on 30 minutes of audio lessons a day.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"b9d1604f-5707-4525-aeb5-56f11e3e6634\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Rosetta Stone\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"12.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EA gift for your student doesn't have to be related to hardware or gadgets. In today's competitive marketplace and global industries, learning a second language can give those entering the workforce a competitive edge -- and so immersive language programs such as the Rosetta Stone can prove an invaluable way to learn quickly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not cheap -- subscriptions can reach hundreds of dollars but is effective. I myself have used the program for Spanish and Japanese in the past, and still retain a fair grasp on both.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program uses immersion tactics including image association and speaking practice to give students a strong grasp of a language, whether it be French, Spanish, Japanese or Chinese.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.rosettastone.com\\"\u003ERosetta Stone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Rosetta Stone","imageData":{"id":"37870cf9-62b2-4a25-a63f-079c7a253c46","filename":"12.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F29\u002F37870cf9-62b2-4a25-a63f-079c7a253c46\u002F12.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-29 18:14:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"credits":"","primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"37870cf9-62b2-4a25-a63f-079c7a253c46","imageFilename":"12.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F29"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EA gift for your student doesn't have to be related to hardware or gadgets. In today's competitive marketplace and global industries, learning a second language can give those entering the workforce a competitive edge -- and so immersive language programs such as the Rosetta Stone can prove an invaluable way to learn quickly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not cheap -- subscriptions can reach hundreds of dollars but is effective. I myself have used the program for Spanish and Japanese in the past, and still retain a fair grasp on both.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program uses immersion tactics including image association and speaking practice to give students a strong grasp of a language, whether it be French, Spanish, Japanese or Chinese.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="http:\u002F\u002Fwww.rosettastone.com"\u003ERosetta Stone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Rosetta Stone\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.rosettastone.com\u002F\" data-offerprice=\"36\" data-offermerchant=\"Rosetta Stone\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother trusted method with instant feedback on pronunciation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-06-17 15:20:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"A valuable resource for language learning that enables you to expand your skillset, better relate to people, and broaden your horizons.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6781c4af-3ca9-49a5-b8db-1cc88a6d0784",image:{id:"05c3df5c-c786-4486-9a0a-58fba40a87c8",filename:"learner-with-duolingo-app-2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-17 14:01:56",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"replace-this-image.jpg",credits:"Duolingo",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F17\u002F05c3df5c-c786-4486-9a0a-58fba40a87c8\u002Flearner-with-duolingo-app-2.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:3537,height:1990,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"duolingo-review",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Duolingo review: Free, fun, easy language learning practice",topic:{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"108f2b14-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"ios",name:"iOS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"863fe219-de4d-4c2d-9e95-55e19301075a",slug:"education",name:"Education",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926460b5-b4e9-464e-859e-278dd409a3a7",slug:"professional-development",name:"Professional Development",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"b0fb3d1e-3e24-473d-9325-eaaf1980f7c7",slug:"android",name:"Android",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"30176ebd-6049-42a9-a72e-544e73503014\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe PNY Duo Link.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"PNY Duo Link\" data-image-filename=\"img-5722.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApart from a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdo-ios-updates-wear-out-your-iphones-battery-the-answer-is-not-so-obvious\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eworn battery\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and broken display, a common reason people upgrade an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EiPhone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is that there is no more storage space. And, more often than not, what's behind all that storage consumption will be photos.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut just mass-deleting photos is a bad road to go down because you're invariably going to lose sentimental photos and either be sad or get into trouble. On the flip side, sorting through photos can be a huge waste of time (although \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffree-up-storage-space-and-declutter-your-iphone-with-gemini-photos\u002F\"\u003Ethere is some excellent software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that can help you sort the wheat from the chaff). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fevery-product-were-expecting-at-apples-september-event-iphone-15-apple-watch-ultra-2-airpods\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat to expect from Apple's 'Wonderlust Event'\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, if you don't want to delete things and you don't want to be tied to paying iCloud storage fees, a great option is to back up photos to a flash drive that will connect to both your iPhone and a computer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnter the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"a65e3676-8921-4de3-b016-f9ba55666351\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C797ZV3G\u002Fref=twister_B0C9VXHZNV\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"PNY Duo Link Lightning and USB-A flash drive\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EBridge the gap between mobile and desktop with the PNY Duo Link storage drive, the perfect solution for on-the-go file management.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PNY Duo Link\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"332b66c7-712d-4d6d-afd8-7c1e724f48d1","title":"PNY Duo Link","filename":"img-5721.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F12\u002F332b66c7-712d-4d6d-afd8-7c1e724f48d1\u002Fimg-5721.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":492416,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-09-12 13:46:58","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-09-12 13:47:05","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET","alt":"PNY Duo Link","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"332b66c7-712d-4d6d-afd8-7c1e724f48d1","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"img-5721.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F09\u002F12","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C797ZV3G\u002Fref=twister_B0C9VXHZNV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C797ZV3G\u002Fref=twister_B0C9VXHZNV","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C797ZV3G\u002Fref=twister_B0C9VXHZNV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESpecs PNY Duo Link specs\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECapacity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 64-256GB\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInterface 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Lightning Connector\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInterface 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECompatibility\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: USB 3.2 Gen 1\u002FUSB 3.0 equipped host devices, backward compatible with USB 2.0\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDevice Compatibility\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: iOS devices and a USB 3.2 Type-A connector for PC and Mac systems\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOperating System Compatibility\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Compatible with iOS 10 and later, MacOS 10 and later, and Windows 7 and later\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOperating Temperature\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 5 to 35 degrees Celsius \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage Temperature\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: -20 to 60 degrees Celsius \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fe773e54-a16b-4403-b2ba-ed011d9e4d51\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPNY Duo Link drive is small but well-built.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"PNY Duo Link drive in hand\" data-image-filename=\"img-5740.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a lot of drives like this out there, but not many come close to the quality of this one. PNY is a respected company in the storage, memory, graphic card, and motherboard business, so you know you're in good hands. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fthis-charging-cable-with-a-twist-works-on-every-device-even-your-new-iphone-15\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThis charging cable with a twist works on every device, even your new iPhone 15\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe drive is solidly made, featuring a durable metal construction with laser-engraved markings (a great touch because stickers and ink wear off easily). This is more than robust enough to put up with day-to-day use and life on a keychain.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c64d4ff7-0fd8-4707-8e2e-6b6154799521\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESolid, metal construction with laser-etched print.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Solid, metal construction with laser etched print\" data-image-filename=\"img-5724.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA plastic cap that covers the Lighting connector clips securely over the connector. This is the sort of thing that I will almost certainly lose, and when I do, I'm not going to worry about it. Lightning connectors are surprisingly robust.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's a nice touch that the Lightning connector is long enough to be used when the iPhone is in a thick case. I hate having to take my iPhone out of its case to use accessories, so it's a pleasant surprise to find something that's been designed with this in mind. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-fans-will-dig-this-stylish-new-3-in-1-charger-from-nomad\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple fans will dig this stylish new 3-in-1 charger from Nomad\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo use this drive on the iPhone, you need the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.apple.com\u002Fus\u002Fapp\u002Fduo-link-4\u002Fid1103672387\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPNY Duo Link 4 app\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This handles the interface between the drive and the iPhone. Using this app, you can move selected photos and videos, back up your entire library, and even transfer documents and other media.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"20e4627e-076f-4c91-8f5b-04fc138390d0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPNY Duo Link 4 app.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"PNY Duo Link 4 app\" data-image-filename=\"img-5727.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"867\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also use the app to password-protect the drive, but if you do this, you won't be able to use the drive on a Windows or Mac system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"334e93d8-96b2-4a16-b7b6-cfe71ea2bf9a\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPassword-protecting the drive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Password-protecting the drive\" data-image-filename=\"img-5739.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"619\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe reviews for this software aren't great, but I've tested it with the drive on a number of iPhones and had no problem whatsoever, so I can't comment on what problems people are having. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-one-iphone-15-pro-upgrade-i-need-is-basic-reasonable-and-disruptive\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe one iPhone 15 Pro upgrade I need is basic, reasonable, and disruptive\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPerformance-wise, the drive isn't a speed demon, and I was getting approximately 60MB per second in tests. But since this is specifically for backing up the iPhone, I don't see this performance limitation as an issue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7a23a769-021e-4f09-b2d8-07f57224cf19\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EBenchmark testing the PNY Duo Link using MiniTool Partition Wizard 12.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Benchmark testing the PNY Duo Link using MiniTool Partition Wizard 12\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-2023-09-12-123444.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"851\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"98a2e14c-9548-49b2-a9b6-40f7efe460d2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C798VC5F\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C798VC5F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"prices starting at $25 for a 64GB drive\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and increasing to \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c8aabab8-c92c-424f-b364-bf0f2003d81c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C797ZV3G\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$55 for the 256GB version\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, this is a cheap and effective way to get beyond your iPhone storage issues. It's not as perfect a solution as having the photos on your iPhone, but it's a very cost-effective way to get a few years out of your iPhone while saving you hundreds of dollars. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-09-12 16:08:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"One of the top reasons that people upgrade their iPhones is a lack of storage space. Buy this drive and save hundreds of dollars.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"9e1ec943-9849-45be-93ce-15532165319a",image:{id:"30176ebd-6049-42a9-a72e-544e73503014",filename:"img-5722.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-09-12 13:43:54",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"GOTRAX 4 electric scooter",credits:"GOTRAX",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F12\u002F30176ebd-6049-42a9-a72e-544e73503014\u002Fimg-5722.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Storage",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"not-buying-a-new-iphone-this-flash-drive-will-give-your-old-one-a-new-lease-of-life",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Not buying a new iPhone? This flash drive will give your old one a new lease on life",topic:{id:"11601750-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"storage",name:"Storage",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"11601750-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"storage",name:"Storage",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"108f2b14-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"ios",name:"iOS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1093d9cb-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"iphone",name:"iPhone",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a7ecc6fa-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Mary Jo Foley",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Mary Jo",lastName:"Foley",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94",filename:"mary-jo-foley.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:57:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94\u002Fmary-jo-foley.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Mary Jo Foley has covered the tech industry for 30 years for a variety of publications, including ZDNET, eWeek, and Baseline. She is the author of Microsoft 2.0: How Microsoft plans to stay relevant in the post-Gates era (John Wiley & Sons, 2008). She also is the co-host of the \"Windows Weekly\" podcast on the TWiT network. \r\n\r\nGot a tip? Send her an email with your rants, rumors, tips, and tattles. Confidentiality guaranteed.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b46395e3-4acd-4e48-9ddd-f8e2ac9b0662\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's new Surface Laptop SE running Windows 11 SE, both optimized for the education market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Credit: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"surfacelaptopsewin11se.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"surfacelaptopsewin11se.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F11\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"8000\" data-image-height=\"4500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is taking the wraps off a new Windows 11 SKU called Windows 11 SE, as well as a new \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"880ad3c6-5b3d-40ab-be7b-5423e00925d2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsurface\u002Fbusiness\u002Fsurface-laptop-se\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Laptop SE\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E device today, November 9. The new Windows 11 edition is a simplified version of Microsoft's newest OS release, customized for the K-12 education market. The new Surface Laptop SE, \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"a5db6985-07f3-4a02-8dff-c579f2ae4d3d\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsurface\u002Fbusiness\u002Fsurface-laptop-se\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"which starts at $250\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, is targeted at the same space. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EMicrosoft rolled out the Windows 11 SE release and device simultaneously with its virtual \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnews.microsoft.com\u002Freimagine-education-2021\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EReimagine: What's Next for Education event\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on November 8. The existence of both \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-try-again-to-reach-the-k-12-market-with-a-new-low-cost-surface-laptop-report\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe Windows 11 SE SKU and the laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E were reported a couple of weeks ago by Windows Central.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhich-microsoft-surface-pc-is-right-for-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best Surface PC: Every Surface device is Windows 11-ready\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Feducationblog.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002F2021\u002F11\u002Fimagining-a-new-era-of-education\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 SE\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (which I'd think stands for Student Edition or School Edition, but which Microsoft claims doesn't stand for anything in particular) will only be available preloaded on new devices for the education market. It won't be available for existing devices or made available separately for users to install on any other devices. It will be available pre-installed on PCs that are available via education purchasing channels. It won't be actively sold to business users or consumers. Schools can pave their Windows 11 SE devices and reinstall any legitimate Windows version for which they have a license, but once they do this, they cannot go back to Windows 11 SE, according to Microsoft.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"d9e698c1-4d2b-47b1-b621-ac3429e42672\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Surface Laptop SE\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"73a5baf6-e374-4098-b878-7a3f5fd90d87","filename":"microsoft-surface-se.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F11\u002F09\u002F73a5baf6-e374-4098-b878-7a3f5fd90d87\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-se.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2021-11-09 17:31:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"73a5baf6-e374-4098-b878-7a3f5fd90d87","imageFilename":"microsoft-surface-se.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F11\u002F09"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsurface\u002Fbusiness\u002Fsurface-laptop-se\" data-offerprice=\"249\" data-offermerchant=\"Microsoft\" data-usemonetization=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EMicrosoft is positioning Windows 11 SE, which was codenamed \"Hailey,\"  as providing a simple, distraction-free environment for students and school admins. It will open apps full-screen, will not support widgets and only allow two choices of side-by-side snapped-app grids. As \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-acknowledges-its-dropping-its-stores-for-business-and-education-in-early-2023\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft is discontinuing its Microsoft Store for Education\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Windows 11 SE won't include a built-in Store for apps, but it will enable admins and\u002For students to download a somewhat curated set of third-party apps, including Chrome and Zoom. Microsoft is touting Microsoft 365 for Education, which will enable students to have offline copies of the key Office apps and store their work locally in case they don't have Internet access outside school, is well-suited, though optional, for Windows 11 SE devices.\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThere is nothing new in the Windows 11 OS itself that is designed to make device provisioning, wiping and updating easier. Microsoft says admins should use existing Intune, Intune for Education and\u002For \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-aims-to-simplify-windows-10-pc-set-up-with-windows-autopilot\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows Autopilot\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tools to deploy and manage Windows 11 SE devices. Of these, Intune for Education is a must; admins who want to use other non-Microsoft management tools should opt for an OS other than Windows 11 SE, Microsoft says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft built \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsurface\u002Fbusiness\u002Fsurface-laptop-se\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface Laptop SE\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to be its own first-party device for the K-8 education market running Windows 11 SE. Various OEMs, including Acer, ASUS, Dell, Dynabook, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo and other PC makers also will be rolling out their own Windows 11 SE PCs. Microsoft officials said they expect the majority of these devices to be available for ordering through education channels later this year and into 2022. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003ESurface Laptop SE, seemingly codenamed \"Vivian,\" is a plastic-encased device with an 11.6-inch screen, front-facing 720-pixel camera and accessible screws on the bottom to make it easily repairable. Surface Laptop SE uses the same keyboard and trackpad as Surface Laptop Go. It Surface Laptop SE features an Intel Celeron processor (N4020 or 4120), 4 GB or 8GB of memory and 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage. It has a USB-A and USB-C port, plus a barrel-type power connector. Microsoft is claiming 16 hours of \"typical\" usage battery life (which, based on my experience, will be 8 hours, at best). Unlike most recent Surface PCs, the Laptop SE has a 16:9 ratio, rather than 3:2 (maybe to save on the cost of components?). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has pursued a variety of strategies as part of its Chromebook-compete efforts for the past several years. It introduced the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-takes-aim-at-schools-consumers-and-businesses-with-surface-go-tablets-starting-at-399\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface Go in 2018, with the EDU market\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as one of its primary audiences. Because the Go wasn't truly \"low-cost,\" -- as it started at $400 without a keyboard or pen (both costing extra) --  it's not clear how much success it has had in that market. Microsoft also planned to try to win over the education market with its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10x-microsofts-cloud-powered-chrome-os-competitor-inches-closer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 10X operating system\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which it \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-officially-acknowledges-windows-10x-isnt-happening\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edropped before it ever came to market\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Microsoft officials have said that many of 10X's planned features were included in Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpdate (November 9)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Here are a few additional interesting tidbits from Microsoft's FAQ about Windows 11 SE.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe recently announced \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-add-new-education-focused-m365-a1-per-device-subscription-plan\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft 365 A1 per-device license\u003C\u002Fa\u003E does figure in with Windows 11 SE. That new $38-per-device license that is good for six years actually comes with Windows 11 SE, Teams, Office, OneNote and Class Notebook, plus other \"education centered\" apps like Minecraft: Education Edition, Flipgrid and Reading Progress. And this new license also includes Intune for Education.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 SE is definitely not as restrictive as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-switching-out-of-windows-10-s-mode-will-be-free-for-all\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 10 in S Mode\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is\u002Fwas. However, the types of apps customers can install and run natively will be limited to six categories: Content-filtering apps, test-taking apps, accessibility apps, classroom communication apps, diagnostics\u002Fmanagement\u002Fconnectivity and supportability apps and browsers. Students won't be able to download things like games, YouTube, etc. on Windows 11 SE by design. It's supposed to be a platform for running a set of apps curated by school IT\u002Fadmins.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 SE won't be the only education-focused version of Windows 11, going forward. Microsoft will continue to offer  Windows 11 Pro Education and Windows 11 Education. Microsoft considers Windows 11 SE a \"cloud-first edition of Windows 11\" that is more controlled by IT than Pro Education, which allows students and others to install apps on their own devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2021-11-09 17:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft is taking on Chromebooks yet again with its new Surface Laptop SE, which runs a simplified version of Windows 11, called Windows 11 SE.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6f1744ea-0057-4f90-8a4d-e2635366a3d1",image:{id:"73a5baf6-e374-4098-b878-7a3f5fd90d87",filename:"microsoft-surface-se.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-11-09 17:31:28",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"win11sestartmenu.png",credits:"Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F11\u002F09\u002F73a5baf6-e374-4098-b878-7a3f5fd90d87\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-se.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1534,height:1014,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-introduces-windows-11-se-new-250-surface-laptop-se-for-education-market",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft introduces Windows 11 SE, new $250 Surface Laptop SE for education market",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"863fe219-de4d-4c2d-9e95-55e19301075a",slug:"education",name:"Education",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bee13902-7a49-4bcb-8dec-04d28efe12b0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESatechi's USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable, USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K adapter, and USB-C 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Satechi\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Satechi's USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable, USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K adapter, and USB-C 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter \" data-image-filename=\"satechi-usb-c-t-adapters.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F12\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EZDNET's key takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESatechi's \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c3ca615b-5cdd-439f-8fcc-b220120845dc\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsatechi.net\u002Fproducts\u002Fusb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k-cable\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b13cde56-abc0-4e40-aa2a-3535cc5fc9ee\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsatechi.net\u002Fproducts\u002Fusb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k-adapter\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K adapter\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"5781edfc-e3f3-4992-ab51-132a6520ac43\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsatechi.net\u002Fproducts\u002Fusb-c-2-5-gigabit-ethernet-adapter\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"USB-C 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E are currently available from Satechi (and use the discount code 8K20 through to December 14 to score a 20% discount). \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAll three products are high quality and offer the very best in performance.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThese products are as close to perfect as you can get.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESatechi, a company renowned for its high-quality docks, dongles, chargers, and other desktop accessories has released three USB-C accessories aimed at enhancing connectivity for Mac and Windows users.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fthis-200w-charging-beast-can-power-six-devices-at-once-and-its-smaller-than-youd-think\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThis 200W charging beast can power six devices at once (and it's smaller than you'd think)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd as I've come to expect from Satechi, all three accessories ooze a high-end premium feel, featuring a sleek aluminum enclosure, tangle-free braided cable, and reinforced neck for optimum durability, and offer exactly what they claim to offer on the box. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Satechi USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable supports high-resolution displays up to 8K\u002F60Hz, as well as 4K\u002F120Hz on compatible devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Satechi USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Satechi\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"335ab918-84d7-4373-b833-1feb0e7e6f99","title":"Satechi USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable","filename":"satechi-usb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F12\u002F08\u002F335ab918-84d7-4373-b833-1feb0e7e6f99\u002Fsatechi-usb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":124581,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-12-08 13:48:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-12-08 13:49:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Satechi\u002FZDNET","alt":"Satechi USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"335ab918-84d7-4373-b833-1feb0e7e6f99","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Satechi\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"satechi-usb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F12\u002F08","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Satechi\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=1554062&u=514792&m=98197&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=satechi.net%2Fproducts%2Fusb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k-cable","offerMerchant":"Satechi","offerPrice":"50","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsatechi.net\u002Fproducts\u002Fusb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k-cable","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=1554062&u=514792&m=98197&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=satechi.net%2Fproducts%2Fusb-c-to-hdmi-2-1-8k-cable"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Satechi USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K cable features a robust yet sleek and stylish aluminum enclosure, and the two-meter braided cable gives the user a much-appreciated tangle-free way to connect their device to a display, while the reinforced neck on the connectors offers the best possible durability. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Satechi USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K adapter has been designed and built to support high-resolution 8K\u002F60Hz outputs on compatible devices, while also being able to offer 4K\u002F120Hz output options for those that value refresh speed over 8K resolution. This adapter also features a sleek aluminum enclosure, a tangle-free braided cable, and a durable reinforced neck. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsatechis-all-in-one-usb-c-docking-station-does-everything-for-150\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESatechi's all-in-one USB-C docking station does everything for $150\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis USB-C 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter allows up to 2500 Mbps (2.5Gbps) Ethernet and Ethernet pass-through on PCs, and is compatible with all USB-C host devices and major operating systems, and backward compatible with slower gigabit Ethernet devices. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese three adapters are everything I've come to expect from Satechi -- sleek, stylish design, robust materials and construction, great performance and functionality, and all of this at a price that's hard to beat for such great quality hardware. If you're looking for a quality USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter, or a USB-C to 2.5 Ethernet adapter, and you want something that delivers what it says on the box and will be working years down the line, this is the hardware you need in your life.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-12-08 15:50:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Satechi's new premium USB-C accessories feature a sleek aluminum enclosure, tangle-free braided cable, and reinforced neck for optimum durability.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"c73d2047-5d56-4b2f-803f-88aa1d30128d",image:{id:"bee13902-7a49-4bcb-8dec-04d28efe12b0",filename:"satechi-usb-c-t-adapters.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-12-08 13:57:25",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"GOTRAX 4 electric scooter",credits:"GOTRAX",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F12\u002F08\u002Fbee13902-7a49-4bcb-8dec-04d28efe12b0\u002Fsatechi-usb-c-t-adapters.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"my-new-must-have-usb-c-accessories-for-mac-and-windows-users-can-support-8k-monitors",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"My new must-have USB-C accessories for Mac and Windows users can support 8K monitors",topic:{id:"a1897105-61bd-4610-abb3-4804906d4a9a",slug:"home-and-office",name:"Home & Office",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"a1897105-61bd-4610-abb3-4804906d4a9a",slug:"home-and-office",name:"Home & Office",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"91abefc8-43b0-4c04-8c11-4585a9ed270c\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Getty\u002FMoMo Productions\" data-image-alt-text=\"a-man-looking-at-his-smartphone-while-sitting-at-a-computer-in-his-home-office\" data-image-filename=\"a-man-looking-at-his-smartphone-while-sitting-at-a-computer-in-his-home-office.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F28\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, your employer issued you a laptop for work, but they won't let you do anything personal on it. They also insist that you are not allowed to do any work-related tasks on your personal PC, and switching between the two laptops is a pain. Is there an easier way? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs fellow minions beholden to remote IT overlords, we sympathize. In fairness to your IT department, their primary concern is keeping the network safe. The most effective way to achieve that goal is to minimize random web browsing and prevent the use of unauthorized software while keeping you connected to HQ on a virtual private network.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-is-the-fastest-safest-way-to-install-free-windows-apps\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis is the fastest, safest way to install free Windows apps\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs you've discovered, though, that makes even the simplest non-work-related computing tasks a pain to accomplish.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe most straightforward solution is to use a small piece of hardware that your IT staff probably knows well: \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4308ac13-a3d5-46cd-b616-92150437824e\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FIOGEAR-2-Port-USB-HDMI-Cabled\u002Fdp\u002FB09VLL7FZH\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"a KVM switch\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. These devices were originally designed for network administrators who had to deal with multiple PCs in a data center or a server room, but it turns out they're ideal for working from home, too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2be5f378-992b-4d80-b4ca-c996cd5cc449\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EKVM stands for "keyboard, video, mouse," which offers a pretty good summary of what this type of switch does. Get yourself a full-size keyboard, an external display, and a mouse. Plug them into the KVM switch. Connect your work PC to one set of inputs and your home laptop to the other, and you can switch between devices with the flick of a switch.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA good KVM switch allows you to also connect your external speakers and additional USB devices, such as an external hard drive that you can use to swap files between devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a KVM switch?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you already have a USB 3.0 hub and you're working with two modern laptops that you can place side by side on your work surface, you can probably get by with something as simple as the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"0eabfdc1-5a07-4d95-9409-1fa96c702bdf\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSabrent-Computers-Peripherals-Indicators-USB-SW30\u002Fdp\u002FB074TYDJK2\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$15 Sabrent USB 3.0 Sharing Switch\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E your mouse, keyboard, and other peripherals into the hub, use a pair of USB 3.0 extension cables to connect the two switch outputs to your work and home laptops, respectively, and get to work. You'll need to use the built-in display on each laptop because this scenario doesn't support an external monitor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn our experience, though, a dedicated KVM switch like the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"cf9677b7-bb7c-4698-9295-6365e7889e60\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FIOGEAR-2-Port-USB-HDMI-Cabled\u002Fdp\u002FB09VLL7FZH\u002F\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FIOGEAR-2-Port-USB-HDMI-Cabled\u002Fdp\u002FB09VLL7FZH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$85 IOGear GCS92HU\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E (Amazon is currently offering a 5% off coupon) is a better option. ZDNET's Steven Vaughan-Nichols praised this device's ability to switch effortlessly between PC, Mac, and Linux devices \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fthis-2-port-4k-kvm-switch-from-iogear-makes-switching-between-computers-easy\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eand concluded it's \"worth every penny.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"bbb71ea1-c315-4213-88b5-6fe6f33f2947\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"IOGear 2-Port 4k Switch\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"50172943-a91c-4079-ab4b-769a6b3dc46a","filename":"iogear-2-port-4k-kvm-switch-the-gcs92hu.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F14\u002F50172943-a91c-4079-ab4b-769a6b3dc46a\u002Fiogear-2-port-4k-kvm-switch-the-gcs92hu.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-06-14 20:07:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"50172943-a91c-4079-ab4b-769a6b3dc46a","imageFilename":"iogear-2-port-4k-kvm-switch-the-gcs92hu.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F06\u002F14"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FIOGEAR-2-Port-USB-HDMI-Cabled\u002Fdp\u002FB09VLL7FZH\" data-offerprice=\"85\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FIOGEAR-2-Port-USB-HDMI-Cabled\u002Fdp\u002FB09VLL7FZH?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf both laptops support the Thunderbolt standard, a slightly more complicated (but equally effective) option is to use a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"778e1732-ee38-4da7-bd52-d0ad6c5decac\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FPlugable-Thunderbolt-3-Dock-Dual-Monitor-dp-B08HR3T837\u002Fdp\u002FB08HR3T837\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"USB Type-C docking station\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. As with a KVM switch, you'll use an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse, along with any other peripherals that you need. To switch between PCs, you only need to unplug the USB-C adapter from one device and plug it into the other. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a roundup of options in this category, check out ZDNET's guide to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe 5 best laptop docking stations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003Cem\u003E  \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-29 11:15:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Here's what to do when your IT department insists that you have to keep your work and personal PCs completely separate.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"05efa1e3-76c7-4097-a8a6-f05d4f8b389c",image:{id:"ea43b584-dc63-4f16-8bd0-6634ee4eaf87",filename:"2-port-usb-dvi-cable-kvm-switch.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2020-08-31 18:14:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Upset man fingers on keyboard",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EA man looking at his smartphone while sitting at a computer in his home office.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F08\u002F31\u002Fea43b584-dc63-4f16-8bd0-6634ee4eaf87\u002F2-port-usb-dvi-cable-kvm-switch.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:1068,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Work Life^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:"This pocket gadget lets you switch between your work PC and personal laptop in a click",section:b,slug:"how-to-switch-between-your-work-pc-and-personal-laptop-in-one-click",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to switch between your work PC and personal laptop in one click",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"98d6f538-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"palmsolo (aka Matthew Miller)",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Matthew",lastName:"Miller",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"ee87d915-3bf6-40cb-8e7f-6112d3b322bc",filename:"matthew-miller.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:28:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fee87d915-3bf6-40cb-8e7f-6112d3b322bc\u002Fmatthew-miller.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Matthew Miller started using mobile devices in 1997 and has been writing news, reviews, and opinion pieces ever since. He was a co-host, with Kevin Tofel, of the MobileTechRoundup podcast for 13 years and authored three Wiley Companion series books. Matthew started using mobile devices with a US Robotics Pilot 1000 and has owned hundreds of devices running Palm, Linux, Symbian, Newton, BlackBerry, iOS, Android, webOS, Windows Mobile, and Windows Phone operating systems. His current collection includes a Galaxy Z Fold 3, COROS Vertix 2, Garmin Fenix 945 LTE, Microsoft Surface Pro 6, and many more, along with classic devices like the Apple Newton MessagePad 2100 and Sony CLIE UX50. Matthew can be found on various social networks under the user name of \"palmsolo.\"",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EA couple of years ago, I switched from using a Brydge keyboard with a Google Pixel Slate and enjoyed the clicky experience of a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fkeychron-k2-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-review-remote-work-fun-on-a-pc-mac-android-or-ios-device\u002F\"\u003EKeychron K2 wireless mechanical keyboard\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. For the past few weeks, I had the opportunity to enter text on various devices with the new \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fkeychron-k8-pro-qmk-via-wireless-mechanical-keyboard?variant=39755425874009\"\u003EKeychron K8 Pro QMK\u002FVIA wireless mechanical keyboard\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new keyboard was sent along as a barebone keyboard with a keycaps kit and a set of Gateron G Pro mechanical brown switches. I installed the switches and the keycaps with the keycaps set up for Windows so I could use it with my \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"6cc841aa-3323-47e3-8428-4581404c1c36\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-Book-Intel-512GB\u002Fdp\u002FB07F1Z4HGJ\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Microsoft Surface Book 2\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. The double-shot PBT keycaps have a cool spherical OSA profile with good size and spacing on the keyboard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"936fde52-dda3-480d-8aee-a15d994b36ec\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"Keychron K8 Pro QMK VIA wireless mechanical keyboard\" data-rating=\"5\" data-like=\"~High-quality design, fit, and finish ~Double-shot PBT keycaps with Gateron switches ~Adjustable typing angle ~VIA software support ~Mac and Windows compatibility -Bluetooth or USB-C ~Affordable price\" data-dislike=\"~Wrist pad needed due to front height\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"04\" data-editorsyear=\"2022\" data-editorsdate=\""2022-04-01T19:11:28.361Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"04\" data-innovationyear=\"2022\" data-innovationdate=\""2022-04-01T19:11:28.361Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8","filename":"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F15\u002F09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8\u002Fkeychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-04-15 01:45:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8","imageFilename":"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F04\u002F15"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Keychron","offerPrice":"105.99","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fkeychron-k8-pro-qmk-via-wireless-mechanical-keyboard?variant=39755425382489","url":""}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EKeyboard hardware\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"f3ac9f28-913a-4593-a82e-596870f25d9c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FKeychron-Bluetooth-Mechanical-Hot-swappable-Tenkeyless\u002Fdp\u002FB0875SJ8FN\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"The Keychron K8 Pro keyboard\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E connects to your computer through its USB-C port. You can also connect to computers, tablets, and phones via its Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connection. An OS switch is found on the left side, next to the USB-C port, with another switch for Bluetooth, off, and cable connection.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keyboard is clearly not as hefty as the Keychron Q1 custom keyboard I tested last year, but it does weigh in at 2.2 pounds so it is fairly substantial. I like a heavier keyboard as it stays in place while you pound out text. Due to the wireless connectivity option, there is a 4000 mAh battery inside the keyboard that supports up to 100 hours of working time with the lowest brightness setting. The charging time is five hours and is charged via the USB-C port.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8cd06314-8ff0-4dd5-81c7-73e254a67ebe\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"keychron-k8-pro-4.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"keychron-k8-pro-4.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESouth-facing (towards the typist), RGB LED lights are provided on the keyboard with a key in the top right that you press to change through the 19 different lighting options. When you have different switches mounted in the keyboard, then the lighting changes a bit as it shines through the switch openings on select switches. There is also a white backlight model where you can control the levels of backlighting rather than various color options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fkeychron-q1-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard\u002F\"\u003EKeychron Q1 QMK custom mechanical keyboard review: A premium, affordable experience built for you\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keyboard has a plastic bottom piece, aluminum case, silicone dampening bottom pad, PCB, sound-absorbing foam, steel plate, switches, and keycaps. Various switch options are supported, and they are also hot-swappable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bbc40324-b599-4951-af3b-d9efcd14ad80\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbbc40324-b599-4951-af3b-d9efcd14ad80\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron K8 Pro is a quantum mechanical keyboard that can be programmed and remapped using the VIA software application. The VIA software lets you fully configure the keyboard, including adding in macros, media controls, and much more. I've only touched the surface of the VIA software and am impressed by the possibilities of using this open-source software to create an extremely productive and efficient keyboard experience to help you get work done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour layers of key settings are provided, with layer 0 assigned to Mac OS and layer 2 assigned to Windows. Layers 1 and 3 are available for customization for Mac and Windows using the VIA software.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard weighs in at 990 grams (2.2 pounds) and measures 359 x 127 mm. It has a front height of 35mm, including the keycap, with typing angles of 0, 6, and 9 degrees supported by the design so you can adjust it for your optimal wrist comfort.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESwitch options\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"6116d7e6-95a5-4fae-a290-3d78933fcba6\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fkeychron-k8-pro-qmk-via-wireless-mechanical-keyboard?variant=39755425874009\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Keychron K8 Pro QMK\u002FVIA wireless mechanical keyboard\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E arrived as a barebone keyboard with a box of keycaps and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b5f6abb1-9175-4a2c-99db-5640a9b37163\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.keychron.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fgateron-switch-set\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Gateron G Pro brown switches\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Keychron provides red, blue, brown, yellow, green, black, and white switch options for the K8 Pro. The brown switch is suitable for office\u002Fgaming with tactile behavior and a gentle sound level. I may switch it out for the blue clicky switches, but I am enjoying the smooth sounds of my fingers flying across the brown switches at the moment. You can also hot swap every switch with most 3-pin and 5-pin MX style mechanical switches on the market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKeychron also incorporates Gateron screw-in PCB stabilizers so that the larger keys have stable and smooth performance. The space bar gets used a lot, and I've enjoyed the response on the K8 Pro keyboard. There are also stabilizers for the shift, enter, and backspace keys.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"754e83b9-d2db-43f9-ab38-5e182c4ee7e9\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"keychron-k8-pro-2.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"keychron-k8-pro-2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe retail package includes the keyboard, keycap puller, switch puller, Windows keys, and a few extra keys. A 1.2-meter USBA to USB-C cable is provided to charge and connect the keyboard. There are 87 keys on the Keychron K8 Pro QMK keyboard with three indicator lights on the right side above the directional arrows. The area around the keys is set down from the aluminum edge a few millimeters, with the metal plate showing the switch mounts in white. There are 12 multimedia keys too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fkeychron-k3-wireless-mechanical-keyboard\u002F\"\u003EKeychron K3 wireless mechanical keyboard review: Easily move between the office and home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDaily usage experiences and conclusion\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Keychron K8 Pro first launched on Kickstarter in March and had more than 5,150 backers investing $673,000. The barebones option will be available for $79, and the fully assembled RGB model with an aluminum frame for $109. There will also be a RGB model with a plastic frame available for $99. Fully assembled switch options include red, blue, or brown that cover a range of parameters and styles, but you can always swap the switches to your particular preference.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"988692d4-03c3-4e1a-a525-fff3a9e113d1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Matthew Miller\u002FZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"keychron-k8-pro-3.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"keychron-k8-pro-3.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"1425\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe keyboard reminds me of the Apple keyboards I used decades in the past, and I've enjoyed using the keycaps that were provided for the review. The weight of the keyboard is perfect, and I also love the ability to alter the angle quickly and easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"1f702ce8-7a0c-4c4f-937e-37dff96bf387\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: Keychron","imageData":{"id":"09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8","filename":"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F15\u002F09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8\u002Fkeychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-04-15 01:45:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8","imageFilename":"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F04\u002F15"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: Keychron\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FKeychron-Bluetooth-Mechanical-Hot-swappable-Tenkeyless\u002Fdp\u002FB0875SJ8FN\" data-offerprice=\"105.99\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe option to use the keyboard wirelessly is fantastic, and I was blown away when the keyboard worked perfectly with my \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"a59318cd-7c44-475e-8c8b-d67cc8a97806\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fipad-pro\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPad Pro 12.9\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Even the top functions and special controls worked out of the box with volume, brightness, media, and more. I'll likely use the keyboard even more than other wired solutions, thanks to the ability to use it with every mobile device I use daily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile I enjoy using the Keychron Q1 as a rock-solid keyboard, the K8 Pro is another great option that I am enjoying pounding away on daily. These mechanical keyboards are very affordable, and the ability to fully customize them to your preferences with switches and keycaps makes them a must-have accessory for your daily work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-04-15 11:57:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The new Keychron K8 Pro wireless TenKeyLess mechanical keyboard is an affordable option that can connect with up to three devices via Bluetooth or USB-C. It has a slick Mac layout and supports Gateron mechanical switches.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"ebfa389c-ce25-48c2-bbda-743057dfc65a",image:{id:"09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8",filename:"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-15 01:45:25",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"keychron-k8-pro-1.jpg",credits:"Image: Keychron",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F15\u002F09ad146b-9cec-41c4-bd4c-9e492ddd36e8\u002Fkeychron-k8-pro-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"keychron-k8-pro-mechanical-keyboard-review-mac-layout-wireless-connectivity-via-programmable",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Keychron K8 Pro mechanical keyboard review: An affordable trip back to the Mac future",topic:{id:"a1897105-61bd-4610-abb3-4804906d4a9a",slug:"home-and-office",name:"Home & Office",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"a1897105-61bd-4610-abb3-4804906d4a9a",slug:"home-and-office",name:"Home & Office",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1091623b-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"ipad",name:"iPad",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1147b242-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"smartphones",name:"Smartphones",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EOne of my most popular posts last year was a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fed-botts-home-office-two-of-everything\u002F\"\u003Etour of my home office\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. That story focused on hardware (and a particularly distinctive piece of furniture), but it left out the other half of the equation: The software that actually does most of the work in my office.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"57761dea-b6bc-4578-9a5f-4e9aac5a4551\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F57761dea-b6bc-4578-9a5f-4e9aac5a4551\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this post, I offer a behind-the-scenes tour of the full-strength apps I use in my office every day for productivity and entertainment. (The list doesn't include a dozen or so utilities that I keep on hand for specialized tasks; I'll save that story for another day.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few of the entries on this list are genuine old-timers that I've been using on Windows PCs for a decade or more, but most are more modern and are built for a cross-platform world. One thing that surprised me as I assembled this list is the sheer number of subscription-based apps and services I use. I know that's a hot button issue for some readers, who are adamant about their distaste for paying monthly or annual fees. I prefer the predictability of those arrangements instead of the big jolt to the budget that comes with major upgrades.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, this selection reflects my work habits and my personal preferences. Your needs are probably different, so your list will undoubtedly be different from mine. I encourage you to share your favorite software in the comments section below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10-my-five-favorite-free-utilities\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMy five favorite free Windows 10 utilities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EProductivity\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"506564e5-9ee0-47ad-a7bd-6f9d81aea6ad\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe four desktop apps that make up the core of what used to be Microsoft Office are an absolutely essential part of my working day, and not much has changed despite the rebranding to Microsoft 365. Outlook is the first app I open in the morning, and I cannot remember the last day where I didn't use Excel and Word. (I typically only use PowerPoint a few times a year.) These apps are available for Windows and MacOS as part of my Microsoft 365 Business Standard (formerly Office 365) subscription, for which I pay $150 annually. The package also includes support for my custom email domain and a terabyte of cloud storage. (For more on what's included, see:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Foffice-365-vs-g-suite-which-productivity-suite-is-best-for-your-business\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMicrosoft 365 vs Google Workspace (formerly G Suite): Which productivity suite is best for your business?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the olden days, the Office brand name was basically a branding gimmick to help bundle a bunch of vaguely related productivity programs. Today, there's far more glue that ties the apps together, including OneDrive for Business, which I use for every document I create. And though the desktop apps represent the overwhelming majority of my usage, I call on the very capable web apps occasionally as well. (That option was especially welcome recently when I was at a car dealership and needed to quickly check a calculation from a spreadsheet I had done earlier. The quick lookup saved me several hundred dollars.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Microsoft 365 apps for Business\" data-superlative=\"It's not just a bundle anymore\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft 365 Apps for Business product information dialog box","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"c61e126f-c32a-47e3-93f4-ec450233b4b4","title":"Microsoft 365 Apps","filename":"snag-df583a4.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fc61e126f-c32a-47e3-93f4-ec450233b4b4\u002Fsnag-df583a4.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":19121,"width":492,"height":414,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 15:54:31","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 15:56:21","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Microsoft 365 Apps for Business product information dialog box","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"c61e126f-c32a-47e3-93f4-ec450233b4b4","imageAltText":"Microsoft 365 Apps for Business product information dialog box","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"snag-df583a4.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":492,"imageHeight":414,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Microsoft","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fmicrosoft-us.evyy.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F434427\u002F3327?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fbusiness\u002F\u002F&subid1=[subid_value]&sharedId=zdnet","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fmicrosoft-us.evyy.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F434427\u002F3327?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fbusiness\u002F\u002F&subid1=[subid_value]&sharedId=zdnet"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"93838090-f9ad-4706-9a30-b340b76d4383\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe problem with Twitter is that it's designed to be overwhelming. To get the most value out of this social network, you need to follow lots of other accounts. But following hundreds or thousands of accounts turns your Twitter home page into a river that flows so fast no human can keep up using the web-based Twitter app.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead, I rely on a third-party app called Tweeten. It's based on TweetDeck, which lets you organize accounts into lists, each contained in its own column. It's not just a TweetDeck port, though. It expands the feature set with filters, support for multiple accounts, scheduling options, and the ability to paste graphics from the Clipboard directly into a tweet. You can add Tweeten as a browser extension for Chrome (or any Chrome-compatible browser) or do as I do and install the full-fledged 64-bit Windows or MacOS app. It's free, but I make an annual donation to the developer, Mehedi Hassan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Tweeten\" data-superlative=\"It's TweetDeck on steroids\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"tweeten-settings.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"9e40d002-aecd-4319-aaec-b428564a4ccd","title":"tweeten-settings","filename":"tweeten-settings.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F9e40d002-aecd-4319-aaec-b428564a4ccd\u002Ftweeten-settings.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":72001,"width":820,"height":580,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:01:59","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:02:57","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"tweeten-settings.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9e40d002-aecd-4319-aaec-b428564a4ccd","imageAltText":"tweeten-settings.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"tweeten-settings.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":820,"imageHeight":580,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Tweeten","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Ftweetenapp.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Ftweetenapp.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f827f789-a528-4f81-9407-d9f09869b5e7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI have been keeping my life in OneNote since at least 2003. It is the digital equivalent of a tattered old Moleskine that is, through some sort of ineffable magic, infinitely expandable. I use OneNote to keep track of receipts, meeting notes, important emails, travel documents, recipes, and so many "notes to self" that I've lost count.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOneNote's superpower is its ability to capture content from just about anywhere. You can use the OneNote browser extension to send all or part of a webpage to a notebook, or call on the virtual OneNote printer to capture a fully formatted document for posterity, or scan a scrap of paper using your smartphone. More magic: If that printed or scanned image contains text, OneNote will convert the text in the background and add it to the notebook's index, making graphics fully searchable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOneNote is included with Windows 10 and as a desktop app in the Microsoft 365 family. It's also available as a free web app and on Macs and mobile devices. (Some editing features require a Microsoft 365 subscription.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"OneNote\" data-superlative=\"An infinitely expandable notebook\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you paste an image of a web page in OneNote, the text it contains is indexed, so you can find it easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"4fbd668d-387e-4c31-8d7d-8445e7a84e26","title":"onenote-search-tools","filename":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F4fbd668d-387e-4c31-8d7d-8445e7a84e26\u002Fonenote-search-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":168573,"width":1075,"height":948,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:15:46","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:15:52","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4fbd668d-387e-4c31-8d7d-8445e7a84e26","imageAltText":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you paste an image of a web page in OneNote, the text it contains is indexed, so you can find it easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1075,"imageHeight":948,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you paste an image of a web page in OneNote, the text it contains is indexed, so you can find it easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"OneNote","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.onenote.com","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.onenote.com"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"399ac612-2d07-4c38-9c82-cde19b7ccd48\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI suppose I could use a free PDF reader, but I spend enough time editing and annotating files saved in this format that the extra capabilities of the full-strength Adobe package (especially editing and annotation tools) are worth the $15 a month I pay. I understand the arguments of those who object to software subscriptions, but the perpetual license version is $449, which seems like something less than a bargain. If you don't need the full feature set, a Standard version costs a few dollars per month less.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd here's a money-saving tip I discovered accidentally. Want to cut the cost of your Adobe subscription? Just choose the option to cancel your plan. You'll be offered a discounted price as an incentive to stay.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Adobe Acrobat Pro DC\" data-superlative=\"From the inventor of the PDF standard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EEveryone uses the PDF format, even the IRS. The editing toolbox on the right is worth paying for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"86c98128-dd26-4453-8656-bac01b979807","title":"acrobat-editing-tools","filename":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F86c98128-dd26-4453-8656-bac01b979807\u002Facrobat-editing-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":504319,"width":1340,"height":963,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:24:46","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:24:49","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"86c98128-dd26-4453-8656-bac01b979807","imageAltText":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EEveryone uses the PDF format, even the IRS. The editing toolbox on the right is worth paying for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1340,"imageHeight":963,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EEveryone uses the PDF format, even the IRS. The editing toolbox on the right is worth paying for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Adobe Acrobat ","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.adobe.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcatalog.html#category=pdf","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.adobe.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcatalog.html#category=pdf"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5fcbe889-f30d-4b3f-ac94-2ee8a0c87354\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA gazillion years ago, a famous household brand sold a lot of mouthwash with ads whose tagline went something like: "You hate the taste, but you use it twice a day." That, to me, is the perfect description of Quicken for Windows, which is occasionally infuriating to use, comes with a steep learning curve, and includes a virtual guarantee that you will run into some terribly annoying bug roughly once a quarter. Despite all that, it's better than any of the alternatives. I know. I've tried them all.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that Quicken's support staff is responsive and knowledgeable, and the user base is so large that you can quickly find an answer if you run into one of those quarterly bugs. And the $104-a-year subscription is tax-deductible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Quicken Home and Business\" data-superlative=\"I hate it, but I use it\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"quicken-add-account.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe secret of Quicken's success is its ability to connect to just about any financial institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"38377420-b952-44b4-97c8-c3e87b2b3942","title":"quicken-add-account","filename":"quicken-add-account.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F38377420-b952-44b4-97c8-c3e87b2b3942\u002Fquicken-add-account.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":103824,"width":796,"height":606,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:42:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:43:00","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"quicken-add-account.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"38377420-b952-44b4-97c8-c3e87b2b3942","imageAltText":"quicken-add-account.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe secret of Quicken's success is its ability to connect to just about any financial institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"quicken-add-account.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":796,"imageHeight":606,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe secret of Quicken's success is its ability to connect to just about any financial institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Quicken","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.quicken.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBrowser and extensions\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e5fbf617-39f8-48cb-804d-1a7c086be555\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor as long as I can remember, I've used at least two browsers on the desktop. If a site balked at loading in one browser, I switched to the other and carried on. That all stopped last year when Microsoft finally gave up on its dreams of maintaining the ancient Trident rendering engine and decided to embrace the de facto open-source Chromium standard. The new Microsoft Edge browser is, as far as most websites are concerned, just another instance of Google Chrome, with support for all the extensions written for that juggernaut. The big difference is that Edge includes tracking prevention features that keep companies like Facebook and Google and, yes, even Microsoft from building a dossier of your online movements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I set up my current Windows PC, almost a year ago to the day, I didn't bother to install Chrome. I still haven't found a reason to do that. I also use Edge on my MacBook Pro and on iOS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Microsoft Edge (Chromium)\" data-superlative=\"The only browser I need on the desktop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou won't find these tracking prevention features in Google Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"18ae4279-ac75-4bcf-bc0e-a26dc2b78d77","title":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention","filename":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F18ae4279-ac75-4bcf-bc0e-a26dc2b78d77\u002Fms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":155652,"width":833,"height":642,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:46:06","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:46:08","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"18ae4279-ac75-4bcf-bc0e-a26dc2b78d77","imageAltText":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou won't find these tracking prevention features in Google Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":833,"imageHeight":642,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou won't find these tracking prevention features in Google Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Microsoft Edge","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fedge","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fedge"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5cb27f9d-d207-45f2-8abb-8bc69c34d986\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen I set up a new PC, Mac, or mobile device, the first thing I install, without exception, is the 1Password browser extension. (For a full review, see:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F1password-my-favorite-password-manager-is-an-essential-security-tool\u002F"\u003E1Password: My favorite password manager is an essential security tool.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) It has every feature you expect from this class of software, including a robust password generator that can create and save truly random, unguessable credentials, as well as support for two-factor authentication. My family plan costs $5 a month and makes it easy to share credentials for online services with my wife.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1Password is also available as an app for iOS, Android, MacOS, and Windows and uses the same synced, encrypted database for all platforms.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1Password\" data-superlative=\"Everyone needs a password manager\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"1password-app.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E1Password warns you if your password is weak or compromised.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"93267591-fb9c-4362-88a6-065cffb9bc31","title":"1password-app","filename":"1password-app.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F23\u002F93267591-fb9c-4362-88a6-065cffb9bc31\u002F1password-app.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":107142,"width":931,"height":793,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-11-23 15:47:15","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-11-23 15:47:18","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"1password-app.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"93267591-fb9c-4362-88a6-065cffb9bc31","imageAltText":"1password-app.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E1Password warns you if your password is weak or compromised.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"1password-app.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F11\u002F23","imageWidth":931,"imageHeight":793,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E1Password warns you if your password is weak or compromised.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"1Password","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002F1password.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002F1password.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"697164a3-d29e-4550-84e8-b518102eb722\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMy favorite solution for keeping browser tabs under control is a browser extension called Workona. (See my full review here: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftoo-many-browser-tabs-this-favorite-extension-is-the-perfect-solution\u002F"\u003EToo many browser tabs? This impressive extension is my favorite solution.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) It allows me to organize tabs into groups called workspaces, sync those saved workspaces across devices, share them with team members, and connect cloud-based productivity services for instant access. I use it on Microsoft Edge, but it's also available on Chrome and Firefox on all major desktop platforms, with versions for Safari (on MacOS and iOS) coming soon.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause Workona is currently in preview, it's free. After it's officially released later this year, I'll absolutely pay the $6 per month to upgrade to the Pro version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Workona\" data-superlative=\"The cleanest way to organize browser tabs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"workona-overview.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EWorkona is currently in preview.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"4c8787a7-7bd4-4393-8faa-f243c5d8d1f3","title":"workona-overview","filename":"workona-overview.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F4c8787a7-7bd4-4393-8faa-f243c5d8d1f3\u002Fworkona-overview.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":253183,"width":1346,"height":1000,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:32:31","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:56:02","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"workona-overview.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4c8787a7-7bd4-4393-8faa-f243c5d8d1f3","imageAltText":"workona-overview.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EWorkona is currently in preview.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"workona-overview.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1346,"imageHeight":1000,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EWorkona is currently in preview.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Workona","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fworkona.com","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fworkona.com"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMedia\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a09c5cd2-66bc-49d5-80a7-9ba76a1dd999\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to music, we live in the best of times and the worst of times. I've tried every free and paid music streaming service (for details, see:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-music-service\u002F#listicle-ac2319a8-78d6-4fea-9569-41035d7ee2a1"\u003EBest streaming music service in 2021\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) and finally settled on Spotify as the best, on balance. Those last two words are key. No streaming service is perfect. There are others (like Tidal and Qobuz) that offer higher-quality downloads, and I grit my teeth every time I try to remember how to upload an album from my personal collection to Spotify's servers. (I finally bookmarked the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.spotify.com\u002Fis\u002Farticle\u002Flisten-to-local-files\u002F"\u003Eofficial Spotify instructions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, Spotify has won a place on the home screen of my devices because of its impressive auto-playlists and its enormous catalog. I pay $10 a month for a premium subscription that eliminates annoying ads and allows maximum control over playlists. The only real competition is Apple Music, which has excellent mobile apps but still requires iTunes (ugh) to work well on a Windows PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Spotify Music\" data-superlative=\"No music app is perfect, but Spotify is best all around\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"spotify-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ESpotify's support for podcasts and its automatic playlists are strengths.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"efc57f84-c68e-40b4-8c85-991d19294327","title":"spotify-main","filename":"spotify-main.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fefc57f84-c68e-40b4-8c85-991d19294327\u002Fspotify-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":319037,"width":1252,"height":1120,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:40:26","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:40:29","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"spotify-main.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"efc57f84-c68e-40b4-8c85-991d19294327","imageAltText":"spotify-main.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003ESpotify's support for podcasts and its automatic playlists are strengths.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"spotify-main.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1252,"imageHeight":1120,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESpotify's support for podcasts and its automatic playlists are strengths.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Spotify","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.spotify.com\u002Fus\u002Fpremium\u002F?referral=cbs&utm_campaign=cbs","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.spotify.com\u002Fus\u002Fpremium\u002F?referral=cbs&utm_campaign=cbs"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5c606681-c562-4f8a-8043-43edf5bfca28\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis free, open source tool has been around forever. (I wrote about it nearly a decade ago, when it was the best&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fif-vlc-can-ship-a-free-dvd-player-why-cant-microsoft\u002F"\u003Efree alternative DVD player\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;on the market.) It plays just about every media format (including Blu-ray discs), it doesn't require downloading dodgy codec packs to work, and it runs&nbsp;on every conceivable platform. On Windows 10, make sure to install the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="http:\u002F\u002Fwww.videolan.org\u002Fvlc\u002Fdownload-windows.html"\u003Efull Windows package\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, not the limited-feature variant in the Windows Store.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"VLC Media Player\" data-superlative=\"Free, open source, handles every format imaginable\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free VLC Media Player supports a huge number of formats with no extra downloads required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"a2415af3-2f7a-4288-90e3-5e06dd629ce0","title":"vlc-codec-support","filename":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fa2415af3-2f7a-4288-90e3-5e06dd629ce0\u002Fvlc-codec-support.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":118141,"width":788,"height":756,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:47:53","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:47:56","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a2415af3-2f7a-4288-90e3-5e06dd629ce0","imageAltText":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free VLC Media Player supports a huge number of formats with no extra downloads required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":788,"imageHeight":756,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe free VLC Media Player supports a huge number of formats with no extra downloads required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"VLC Media Player","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.videolan.org\u002Fvlc\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.videolan.org\u002Fvlc\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"37f159fa-2311-4eb2-9ff3-405bc63cac90\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDespite the ease of streaming tunes from Spotify's servers, I still have a substantial personal music collection in digital format. Some of the tracks in that collection are copies ripped from old CDs that aren't available on any streaming service. Others are live recordings, obtained directly from the artist or from legal online services and also unavailable on Spotify. A few are lossless recordings of favorite albums that I occasionally want to hear in their full, uncompressed sonic glory.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor all those tunes, MediaMonkey for Windows is an indispensable tool. Its built-in player handles just about any audio or video file, including lossless music tracks in FLAC and ALAC formats. It can rip CDs, stream music to external devices, automatically tag MP3 files and add album art, and even sync tracks with my iPhone and Android devices. The free version is perfectly capable, but I paid the $25 upgrade price years ago and have enjoyed regular free upgrades since then.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MediaMonkey\" data-superlative=\"A Swiss Army knife for digital media\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EMediaMonkey can automatically update MP3 tags based on the filename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"0e52f85f-b74a-4304-aadb-7e40b1bbb0a5","title":"mediamonkey-autotag","filename":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F0e52f85f-b74a-4304-aadb-7e40b1bbb0a5\u002Fmediamonkey-autotag.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":229586,"width":1023,"height":617,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:51:15","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:51:17","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"0e52f85f-b74a-4304-aadb-7e40b1bbb0a5","imageAltText":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EMediaMonkey can automatically update MP3 tags based on the filename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1023,"imageHeight":617,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMediaMonkey can automatically update MP3 tags based on the filename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"MediaMonkey","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mediamonkey.com\u002Fdownload\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mediamonkey.com\u002Fdownload\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2021-04-05 12:11:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Here's a list of the apps and services I use day in and day out. It's an eclectic mix of desktop apps and browser-based tools, with some essential media players thrown in for good measure.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"abba3fe9-e532-4c05-ab7d-31fa157584e3",image:{id:"4ba04c49-7bc3-4498-8959-d539db5b6257",filename:"eleven-volume-knob.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-01-29 18:07:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Full Power",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EBlack and white image of a volume or power control switch on a metal background that goes all the way up to the number eleven.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F4ba04c49-7bc3-4498-8959-d539db5b6257\u002Feleven-volume-knob.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:3888,height:2592,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Work Life^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"windows-and-mac-software-my-11-essential-apps-and-services",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows and Mac software: My 11 essential apps and services",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"114a15be-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"49d88a0c-d957-43db-a889-704837b624f5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go\" data-image-filename=\"img-7472.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F12\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EZDNET's key takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"6046394f-a75e-41e6-b5a6-44d656651151\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08XY6YTWT?th=1\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go USB-A\u002FUSB-C swivel drives\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E are available on Amazon.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe small, dual USB connectors are available in various capacities and colors.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is no on-board encryption, so the data is vulnerable if the drive is lost or stolen.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-cloud-storage\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecloud storage\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is the modern way to back up data, sometimes nothing beats physical storage. But the mixture of USB-A and USB-C ports on computers and other devices means that you need flash drives that are capable of handling both ports.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that you can now get flash drives that have both ports -- and they are tiny, cheap, and fast.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fthis-200w-charging-beast-can-power-six-devices-at-once-and-its-smaller-than-youd-think\u002F\"\u003EThis 200W charging beast can power six devices at once (and it's smaller than you'd think)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I say \"tiny,\" these drives are so small that you can attach gigabytes of storage to your keyring.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd these flash drives don't get much better than the SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go. And these drives will work on a wide range of systems, from PCs to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMacs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"170d8b1f-c8d3-4fb2-b4fb-ab217ff447a0\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-ipad\u002Fipad-pro\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPad Pros\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and Android devices, and even the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8687ddd1-c7db-4dee-98dd-e86d734fac1d\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-iphone\u002Fiphone-15\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPhone 15\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe 2-in-1 flash drive with a reversible USB Type-C and a traditional Type-A connector allows&nbsp;you to seamlessly move data between PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"SanDisk\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"35ba464f-ba34-4baf-9e29-9f9f33993092","title":"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go features","filename":"untitled-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F12\u002F09\u002F35ba464f-ba34-4baf-9e29-9f9f33993092\u002Funtitled-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":257074,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-12-09 20:40:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-12-09 20:40:48","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"SanDisk\u002FZDNET","alt":"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go features","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"35ba464f-ba34-4baf-9e29-9f9f33993092","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"SanDisk\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"untitled-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F12\u002F09","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"SanDisk\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"8561d1a6-8d01-4056-8dff-696eb0ebf384","slug":"sandisk-ultra-dual-drive-go-usb-flash-drive-128-gb-sdddc3128gg46nb","name":"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go - USB flash drive - 128 GB","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"EZMONEY","mod":1702436024845,"displayDate":"Tue Dec 12 2023 21:53:44 GMT-0500 (Eastern Standard Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSanDisk-256GB-Ultra-Drive-Type-C\u002Fdp\u002FB08XY6YTWT?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSanDisk-256GB-Ultra-Drive-Type-C\u002Fdp\u002FB08XY6YTWT","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSanDisk-256GB-Ultra-Drive-Type-C\u002Fdp\u002FB08XY6YTWT?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go features\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe 2-in-1 flash drive with USB Type-C and Type-A connectors.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESeamlessly move content between your USB Type-C smartphone, tablets, Mac, and USB Type-A computers.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAutomatically back up photos using the SanDisk Memory Zone app.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECapacities range from 32GB to 1TB.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECompatible with Android 11 and higher, iOS 10.0.2 and higher, MacOS v10.9 and higher, and Windows 10\u002F11.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese swivel-design flash drives mean that you have the best of both worlds -- you have USB-C for modern systems and USB-A for older machines. This means you have a drive that will work everywhere (except iPhones that have Lightning ports), and also a really handy way to move data between different systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd all packaged into a drive that you can hang off your keyring. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7e8132e1-2ebb-4eab-96f1-14e170f51331\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EUSB-C one end...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"USB-C closeup \" data-image-filename=\"img-7473.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F12\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAre you running out of space on your USB Type-C smartphone? Just plug in the SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go drive to the device and get access to gigabytes of storage, allowing you to move files off your device and free up precious storage space. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmy-search-for-the-best-cheap-android-tablet-is-over\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMy search for the best cheap Android tablet is over\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf that sounds like a hassle, then download the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fplay.google.com\u002Fstore\u002Fapps\u002Fdetails?id=com.sandisk.mz&hl=en_US\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESanDisk Memory Zone app\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (Android only) and have that automatically backup your photos, videos, music, documents, and contacts to the drive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1966207b-8562-4428-b9b2-2c3cc6f40264\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EUSB-A on the other end!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"USB-A closeup\" data-image-filename=\"img-7474.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F12\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"899\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'd usually recommend that you only carry around personal or business data on a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"0171713f-7893-40ce-b27a-5724a571c4d2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApricorn-256-bit-Hardware-Encrypted-Validation-ASK3-NXC-128GB\u002Fdp\u002FB08D332395\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"hardware encrypted flash drive\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. However, for things that are not private or confidential, or for drives that don't leave your home or office, the convenience of a drive like the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4514c29f-7fb6-4a39-a121-af1455101b49\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSanDisk-256GB-Ultra-Drive-Type-C\u002Fdp\u002FB08XY6YTWT\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is really handy. It makes the process of moving tens, if not hundreds, of gigabytes from one system to another super simple. With prices starting at $15, you can't beat the cost-effectiveness of these drives.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-12-14 19:53:43",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Need to swap data between systems with USB-A and USB-C ports? Check this out.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"74e50554-f902-4fde-9eb1-fd109102cd43",image:{id:"49d88a0c-d957-43db-a889-704837b624f5",filename:"img-7472.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-12-09 20:35:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"GOTRAX 4 electric scooter",credits:"GOTRAX",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F12\u002F09\u002F49d88a0c-d957-43db-a889-704837b624f5\u002Fimg-7472.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Storage",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"this-sandisk-flash-drive-is-tiny-cheap-and-fast",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"This SanDisk flash drive is tiny, cheap, and fast",topic:{id:"11601750-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"storage",name:"Storage",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"11601750-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"storage",name:"Storage",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"b0fb3d1e-3e24-473d-9325-eaaf1980f7c7",slug:"android",name:"Android",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a0de22ce-dbed-419b-9a97-562689032701",username:"kwan2035",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"June",lastName:"Wan",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"4cc4d03e-eeaf-4b0c-bb8a-63d34de6cc51",filename:"1549928918804.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-03 20:04:44",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F03\u002F4cc4d03e-eeaf-4b0c-bb8a-63d34de6cc51\u002F1549928918804.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"June, who often goes by Kerry, serves as Technology Editor of ZDNET and is based in New York City. He reviews the latest consumer gadgets and shares advice to make the most out of them. When June isn't drooling over the next best thing, he's probably being let down by the Los Angeles Lakers.",profile:c,title:"Technology Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3cffc32c-9f3e-4b76-b7ce-72f1918502cd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The MSI Prestige 13 Evo open on a red table top.\" data-image-filename=\"dsc02990.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F03\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMSI had my undivided attention back in CES when it demoed a stylus that could \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-laptop-stylus-that-can-strangely-write-on-paper-is-my-favorite-ces-gadget\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewrite on both paper and screen\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It was also at that time when the company gave me a taste of its lightest laptop yet: The \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"fbcbbda9-aac4-4152-be07-f87e754b61ed\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.newegg.com\u002Fstellar-gray-msi-prestige-13evo-a13m-050us-work-business\u002Fp\u002FN82E16834156440?\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"MSI Prestige 13 Evo\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. It weighs just shy of 2.2 pounds, making it impossible not to draw comparisons between the burdenless framework and that of Apple's \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"0d1ed064-f163-45fa-a113-3197d7d7607e\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F2022-Apple-MacBook-Laptop-chip\u002Fdp\u002FB0B3C2R8MP\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Macbook Air\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. While the M2 variant of the Apple laptop has remained my go-to for mobile computing, in many ways, the lesser-known MSI does the ultraportable better.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fusb-port-problems-this-handy-kit-tests-usb-ports-for-under-25\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThis handy $24 kit can help you troubleshoot USB problems\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Prestige 13 Evo comes with a matte, glare-free, 13-inch display, a privacy-shuttered webcam that supports Windows Hello, up to 32GB of RAM, and all the ports you'd want, including \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-hdmi-cable\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHDMI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and USB-A. MSI tells me the base $999 model (12th Gen Intel Core i5 with 16GB RAM) will be available by the end of this month, so I'd wait until then if you're looking to save money. For now, I'd recommend opting for the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"0ba63a9e-16c6-4465-ab94-bb0031587ebe\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.newegg.com\u002Fmsi-prestige-13evo-a13m-074us\u002Fp\u002FN82E16834156465?\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=44583&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newegg.com%2Fstellar-gray-msi-prestige-13evo-a13m-050us-work-business%2Fp%2FN82E16834156440\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"higher-end\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E Core i7, 16GB RAM, and 1TB model which costs less than the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8f9d1e7d-e392-4e80-a358-4464adf6286d\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmacbook-air-13-6-laptop-apple-m2-chip-8gb-memory-512gb-ssd-latest-model-midnight\u002F6509651.p?skuId=6509651\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"specced-out MacBook Air\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E but has twice the storage size.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"86228c85-e99e-45c5-9058-5e640a595315\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Buy the MSI Prestige 13 Evo\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"aed9e52b-8489-4f36-a8ca-93f063d04416","filename":"dsc02973.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F14\u002Faed9e52b-8489-4f36-a8ca-93f063d04416\u002Fdsc02973.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-14 16:48:43","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"aed9e52b-8489-4f36-a8ca-93f063d04416","imageFilename":"dsc02973.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F14"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.newegg.com\u002Fmsi-prestige-13evo-a13m-074us\u002Fp\u002FN82E16834156465?\" data-offerprice=\"1299\" data-offermerchant=\"Newegg\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=44583&u1=subid_value&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.newegg.com\u002Fstellar-gray-msi-prestige-13evo-a13m-050us-work-business\u002Fp\u002FN82E16834156440\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy past few weeks of testing the MSI laptop have been refreshing. As someone who needs a work machine that's just as reliable on the go as it is when \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edocked to an external monitor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E at home, I've been leaning more towards Apple's M1 and M2 laptops for their efficiency and no-frills performance. While benchmarks suggest that the Prestige 13 Evo's Intel system is not as efficient as devices powered by Apple silicon, the overall user experience of the laptop is enough to replace them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBest Windows laptops you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlexibility is what sells the MSI laptop for me, from the slew of ports to the duality of biometric identification support (facial scan and fingerprint sensor). Switching gears from the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsamsung-galaxy-book-3-ultra-review\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESamsung Galaxy Book 3 Ultra\u003C\u002Fa\u003E I recently reviewed, it was a welcome surprise to see similar features trickle down to the less-expensive MSI laptop, including HDMI support, a MicroSD card slot, and a USB-A port. It's rare to find them on a 13-inch build, let alone one that is built with nimbleness in mind.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"22201238-291f-4c03-8732-6cd3ac95822d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"A close-up shot of the ports on the MSI Prestige 13 Evo\" data-image-filename=\"dsc03002.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F03\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore impressively, MSI managed to cram in a 75Wh battery in the Prestige 13 Evo, giving it a rated endurance of 15 hours per charge. I got about 12 hours of usage before needing to whip out the included 65W charger, but that's still impressive when compared to similar-sized laptops that score in the 8 to 10 hours range, sometimes lower. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmsi-stealth-14-studio-review-gaming-laptop-portable-powerhouse\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EI tried the new MSI Stealth 14 Studio and it's a portable powerhouse\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe enhanced battery life can mostly be attributed to the 75Wh capacity, though I'd also credit the generous spread of vents beaming out from the back of the laptop, as well as the lower-resolution, 1080p display. The latter of which is not a dealbreaker by any means; most content that we consume nowadays is in 1080p resolution, and you'll barely notice the visual difference between it and a 2K panel on a 13-inch screen. But if you dabble in creative work that requires attention to detail, you're best served outside of the compact laptop market, where 2K and even 4K displays are more prevalent.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3fb835f9-7b73-4251-bcc9-dc7ac9247be0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"MSI Prestige 13 Evo's keyboard and trackpad.\" data-image-filename=\"dsc02997.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F03\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy now, you can probably guess that while MSI specializes in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gaming-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egaming laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the Prestige 13 Evo is anything but that. There's no ultra-clicky, RGB keyboard or 144Hz display to be found here. Instead, the laptop is for those who want a portable and compact Windows computer that's capable of running the latest pro-grade apps and services, can last up to two days per charge, has a bevy of ports for creators, and won't cost an arm and a leg, relatively speaking.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-03-16 13:21:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"MSI is best known for its gaming laptops, but the Prestige 13 Evo is all about business, weighs just two pounds, and has all the ports.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"b1188c50-2c76-434e-a45c-4e48aff9d790",image:{id:"3cffc32c-9f3e-4b76-b7ce-72f1918502cd",filename:"dsc02990.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-03-14 13:44:08",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"The MSI Prestige 13 Evo open on a red table top.",credits:"June Wan\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F14\u002F3cffc32c-9f3e-4b76-b7ce-72f1918502cd\u002Fdsc02990.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:6000,height:3376,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"forget-the-macbook-air-this-windows-alternative-weighs-less-and-does-more",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Forget the MacBook Air: This Windows alternative weighs less and does more",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"8d600230-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Jack Wallen",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Jack",lastName:"Wallen",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"f03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899",filename:"jack-wallen.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:04:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Ff03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899\u002Fjack-wallen.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Jack Wallen is what happens when a Gen Xer mind-melds with present-day snark. Jack is a seeker of truth and a writer of words with a quantum mechanical pencil and a disjointed beat of sound and soul. An award-winning writer and novelist, Jack has been covering Linux, open-source, and other topics since the late 1990s for numerous publications such as ZDNET, CNET, TechRepublic, Linux.com, The New Stack, Linode, TechTarget, and Linux New Media. Jack's also written over 50 novels of fiction, at least one of which focuses on the Linux operating system. For more news about Jack Wallen, visit his website jackwallen.com.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"30b98e72-eebc-412b-a846-98e5e246eeaf\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOut of the box, Xubuntu is very basic but ready for you to tweak it to meet your needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The default Xubuntu desktop.\" data-image-filename=\"xubuntu1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F07\u002F03\" data-image-width=\"1279\" data-image-height=\"801\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough I've only ever made Xfce my default for a brief period, I've been a fan of the open-source desktop for a long time. Not only is it very fast and reliable, but it's also a tinkerer's dream. In fact, you can configure Xfce into looking and feeling like just about any type of desktop you want. Fan of Windows 7? Xfce has you covered. Prefer MacOS? Xfce can do that. What about something altogether different? Yup, Xfce can do that as well.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI would go so far as to say that Xfce is the single most flexible desktop interface on the market. If you can dream it, Xfce can do it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-linux-desktops-for-beginners\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best Linux distros for beginners\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat, of course, doesn't mean Xfce will challenge new-to-Linux users. Xfce is just as at home with new users as it is with those who've been using Linux for years. Out of the box, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fxubuntu.org\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EXubuntu\u003C\u002Fa\u003E presents Xfce as a desktop that is immediately familiar. You'll find a panel, start menu, system tray, and clickable icons ready to go. Click the start menu and you'll find all the applications you need to be productive and entertained, including:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELibreOffice (office suite)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFirefox (web browser)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThunderbird (email client)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETransmission (torrent client)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECatfish (file search tool)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGIMP (image editor)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERhythmbox (music player)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EParole Media Player\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAtril Document Viewer\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOut of the box, Xubuntu goes for a very minimal desktop that includes nothing more than a top panel featuring the app menu, and system tray. You'll also find two desktop icons (Trash and Home) but you can easily add more by right-clicking an app entry in the menu and selecting Add to Desktop. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e942822f-396b-4b22-8db7-a8ca12c6a44a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAdding a new icon to the desktop for easy app launching.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Xfce menu right-click context-menu.\" data-image-filename=\"xubuntu2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F07\u002F03\" data-image-width=\"509\" data-image-height=\"546\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also add new panels by clicking Start > Settings > Panel. From within the Panel Preferences window, click + and then place the panel where you want it and start adding items. One thing to keep in mind is that to configure a specific panel, you must first select it from the drop-down. Once you've selected a panel to configure, it will be surrounded by a red dotted line to indicate it is the panel you are working with.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"be5c2e55-76b2-443f-9913-d62ee65e10fb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EConfiguring an Xfce panel is actually quite easy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Xfce panel configuration window.\" data-image-filename=\"xubuntu3.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F07\u002F03\" data-image-width=\"1285\" data-image-height=\"801\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EA cautionary tale about Xfce\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I said earlier, I appreciate what Xfce does. It's so flexible that it can be bent and twisted into just about any type of desktop you want. Just about every aspect of Xfce can be tweaked. That, of course, can lead to problems. I remember, long ago, when I first used Xfce I immediately dove in to conquer that desktop. My goal was to see how far I could push the desktop and I wound up breaking a few things. It took me a while to get the desktop back to working order but it wasn't exactly easy. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo that end, I would say this: If you go with Xubuntu as your desktop operating system of choice, take it slow. At first, maybe don't dive in too deep with the configurations, lest you wind up with a FUBAR UI. If you take Xfce slowly, learning how it all works and behaves, you can tweak it, tiny bit by tiny bit, until you have a desktop that perfectly suits your needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-most-important-reason-you-should-be-using-linux-at-home\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe most important reason you should be using Linux at home\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd that, my friends, is the biggest benefit to using the Xubuntu flavor of Ubuntu -- flexibility. And when you combine that with the speed and reliability that comes with Xfce, you wind up with an operating system that not only works well but can grow with you as you learn more about how this desktop functions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd speaking of the highly configurable nature of Xubuntu, one thing you won't find is a single app housing all of those configuration options. There is no \"Control Panel\" or Settings application. If you open the desktop menu and click Settings, you'll find every setting broken into categories. So, think of the Settings menu entry as the Xfce Control Panel. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2a0a1414-7360-4c12-8913-04072231c6c7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAccess to every setting option is found in the desktop menu under Settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Xfce Settings menu.\" data-image-filename=\"xubuntu4.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F07\u002F03\" data-image-width=\"543\" data-image-height=\"543\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWho is Xubuntu for?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome feel that any Xfce-based desktop distribution is great for new users. I don't happen to fall into that category. In fact, I tend to tell new users to avoid this desktop until they have at least a fundamental grasp on how the Linux operating system works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe problem with Xfce and new users is that if a user who isn't familiar with some of the concepts starts poking too deeply into the Settings menu, they could wind up like I did (so many years ago) and have to roll back their configurations to get the desktop to a functioning place. Or, worst case scenario, have to re-install the OS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-choose-the-right-linux-desktop-distribution-for-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to choose the right Linux desktop distribution for you\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, for those who have even a basic understanding of the Linux desktop, Xubuntu will grow with you. If you're looking for a tinkerer's dream come true, this is it. If you're looking for an operating system that \"just works,\" this will serve that function…as long as you don't get too curious with some of the configuration options. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll-in-all, Xubuntu is a great Ubuntu flavor for those willing to take the time and understand how the desktop functions and what the different configuration options are, and how they affect the desktop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1d11a65c-977c-4f6a-82e0-a6abcfd960ff\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1d11a65c-977c-4f6a-82e0-a6abcfd960ff\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-07-03 18:57:14",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"If you like to tinker with your desktop, bending it to meet your exact needs, Xubuntu might be the ideal operating system for you.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"9817cedb-c11b-4513-8c19-35e12069fbf9",image:{id:"30b98e72-eebc-412b-a846-98e5e246eeaf",filename:"xubuntu1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-07-03 13:38:26",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"The default Xubuntu desktop.",credits:"Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EOut of the box, Xubuntu is very basic but ready for you to tweak it to meet your needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F03\u002F30b98e72-eebc-412b-a846-98e5e246eeaf\u002Fxubuntu1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1279,height:801,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Open Source",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"xubuntu-is-a-highly-configurable-linux-desktop-that-can-be-tweaked-to-your-hearts-content",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Xubuntu is a highly configurable Linux desktop that can be tweaked to your heart's content",topic:{id:"10f422bf-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"open-source",name:"Open Source",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10f422bf-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"open-source",name:"Open Source",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003ESo, how does Windows 11 run on \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"63a1cc4b-4363-4452-97fc-9c40947a05ad\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-pro\u002F14-inch\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmacbook-pro%2F14-inch&subId1=[subid_value]\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Apple's M1 Pro MacBook Pro?\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E I've been asked this quite a lot over the past few months, and, until now, I've been a bit hesitant to comment.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I switched up to an M1 Pro MacBook Pro, I knew a whole bunch of things would change. One of those was that it was the end of the line of being able to run the x86 Windows on the Mac. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYeah, I'm one of those people who run Windows on their Macs. Get over it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-16-inch-macbook-pro-m1-max-late-2021-review-apple-supercharges-its-flagship-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApple supercharges its flagship laptop\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis lack of support for x86 initially got me more than a bit worried. While I don't absolutely need Windows, it's very handy to have access to it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERunning Windows in Apple's Bootcamp software was dead in the water as it was no longer supported, and Bootcamp really wasn't the best experience at the best of times anyway.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFortunately, the good people at Parallels released \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fparallels-desktop-17\u002F\"\u003EParallels Desktop for Mac 17\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and this version would allow me to run \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffuture-of-desktop-computing-is-it-all-in-apples-hands-with-arm\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 Arm\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on my M1 Pro MacBook Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe process of getting your hands on Windows 11 Arm and getting it installed on macOS is pretty straightforward, and Parallels has outlined the process \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fkb.parallels.com\u002F125375\"\u003Ehere\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince I don't run Windows a whole lot on my Mac, this is something I've been testing slowly over the past few months. I initially felt that possible compatibility issues with Windows 11 Arm would make the whole endeavor painful, and that I'd have to give up on having Windows on my Mac and run Windows on a Windows laptop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis initially made me a little hesitant in recommending this path to others. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, given the great job Microsoft has done, how \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fuwp\u002Fporting\u002Fapps-on-arm\"\u003Ewell Windows 11 Arm supports a broad range of different applications\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and the fantastic job that Parallels have done in supporting Windows 11 Arm, I've actually had zero issues whatsoever.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZero.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've now got a version of Windows 11 running on my Mac, and I have access to everything that I need.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELife is good.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, it's weird that when I do switch to a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E how I feel that the experience is very often a second-rate experience. The power that the M1 Pro system offers, especially when the system is running on battery power, absolutely blows away the competition.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt really is hard for Windows users sometimes to comprehend that I can be running macOS and Windows 11 side-by-side, along with a whole bunch of apps, and the power and performance that is on offer just feels pretty much limitless.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"83b189ab-b14f-4fcb-a665-ddf697abf25b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Apple M1 Pro MacBook Pro\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"013f4e2a-84cd-426a-b011-7ca8b0483674","filename":"m1-pro-macbook-pro.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F02\u002F14\u002F013f4e2a-84cd-426a-b011-7ca8b0483674\u002Fm1-pro-macbook-pro.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-02-14 17:36:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"013f4e2a-84cd-426a-b011-7ca8b0483674","imageFilename":"m1-pro-macbook-pro.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F02\u002F14"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-pro\u002F14-inch\" data-offerprice=\"1849\" data-offermerchant=\"Apple\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fus-edu\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-pro\u002F14-inch-space-gray-8-core-cpu-14-core-gpu-512gb&subId1=[subid_value]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe M1 Pro MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM totally blows out of the water a Windows system with 16GB of RAM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"66464c74-be08-4046-a7d9-4711d63864af\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F66464c74-be08-4046-a7d9-4711d63864af\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's just no comparison whatsoever.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso, the cooling on the new MacBook Pro is so much better and more efficient than any Windows laptop I've ever tested. Despite running system-intensive apps under both macOS and Windows 11, I barely ever hear the fans come on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-macbook-mac-mini-deals\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest MacBook and Mac Mini deals\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's still unclear to me what Microsoft's longer-term intentions with Windows 11 Arm are. But for now, the combination of an M1 Pro MacBook Pro, Parallels Desktop for Mac 17, and Windows 11 Arm is an absolutely winning combination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, this is my endorsement of Windows 11 Arm running in Parallels Desktop for Mac 17 on the M1 Pro MacBook Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor me, there's no better way to run Windows 11 than on a Mac.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"gallery\" data-uuid=\"2e16b0ca-7448-4d25-8e4a-05c739b6bcaf\" data-float=\"none\" data-size=\"large\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-02-14 15:32:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Yes, Windows 11 Arm runs buttery smooth on the M1 Pro chip",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"40bc793e-8342-4038-b253-748cde105c3c",image:{id:"9d38198c-3dc6-4b8a-af85-3c6e7652d215",filename:"parallels-17-header.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-08-10 09:54:56",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"parallels-17-header.jpg",credits:"Image: Parallels",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F10\u002F9d38198c-3dc6-4b8a-af85-3c6e7652d215\u002Fparallels-17-header.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:770,height:433,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"apples-m1-pro-macbook-pro-is-an-amazing-windows-11-laptop",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Apple's M1 Pro MacBook Pro is an amazing Windows 11 laptop",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:"Deep-dive, compare, decide",description:c,filters:c,paging:c,slug:"dynamic-topic-4-story-carousel-product-research",title:"Product Research",label:c,viewMoreText:c,viewMoreUrl:c,relatedItems:c},{id:"49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",meta:{componentName:"49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",componentDisplayName:"How-to Guides",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32"}},items:[{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"joshblake\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"glowing laptop\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-183301913.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-crop=\"2000x1280+0+80\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen October 2025 rolls around, your old but still functional Windows 10 PC will no longer receive monthly security updates. And although you have a variety of options, the simplest solution is to upgrade that PC to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can, that is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is engaging in serious age discrimination against your Windows PCs these days. Even ancient PCs can run Windows 10, but not everyone can upgrade to the latest version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are well over 1 billion Windows PCs in the world today, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emost of them running Windows 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Where your PC fits in will define whether it can last another decade or if it's time to find a retirement home. You can sort yourself by asking one simple question: How old is that PC, exactly?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe date of purchase doesn't matter nearly as much as when the PC and its internal components were designed. And the most important of those components is the CPU. In Windows 10, you can discover that detail by running the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe. On the System Summary page, look for the Processor value, as in the example shown below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d34cf82f-b5fa-4c18-83b7-51d0e28fc451\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe System Information utility will tell you which CPU is in your old PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"find-your-processor-here\" data-image-filename=\"find-your-processor-here.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"781\" data-image-height=\"397\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArmed with that information, you can sort your PC into one of four buckets. Here's how to find out which one you're in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EModern PCs: 2019 or later\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPCs that were designed and built in 2019 or later can generally run Windows 11 with full support. Your machine is in this bucket if its CPU is on one of the following lists\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-intel-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Intel processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: The main list starts with Core 8th Generation parts, which debuted in early 2019. (A few older, 7th Gen CPUs are on the list, but they are mainly found in high-end business machines.)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-amd-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported AMD processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Most Ryzen and Epyc CPUs that were first shipped in 2019 or later are included here.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-qualcomm-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Qualcomm processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Arm-based PCs running a Snapdragon 850 or later are eligible to upgrade to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy design, every machine that includes one of the CPUs on this list will also include the other essential component that Windows 11 requires: a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrusted Platform Module\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (TPM) version 2.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003ECan't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your PC falls into this group, you can upgrade to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11\"\u003EWindows 11 Installation Assistant\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and it should be capable of performing well for another decade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your CPU isn't on any of those lists, you'll need to dig a little deeper. You can get some important clues about a CPU's age and capabilities by going to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fark.intel.com\u002Fcontent\u002Fwww\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fark.html#@Processors\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIntel's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amd.com\u002Fen\u002Fproducts\u002Fspecifications\u002Fprocessors.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAMD's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and searching for the part name (i7-11850H, for example).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 10: 2016-2019\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems unfair to call these PCs old. They're middle-aged at best and capable of performing just about any modern task.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAny system designed to meet the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program specifications during this period includes a TPM 2.0, although the CPU is almost certainly not on the list of Windows 11 supported parts. If you own one of these PCs, you can use Microsoft's documented procedure to upgrade to Windows 11 by making a simple registry edit. (You'll find the details under the \"Option1\" heading in this article: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese PCs are likely to run Windows 11 well, and even the oldest of the bunch should be useful for at least five more years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 7\u002F8: 2010-2015\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese machines are starting to show their age and can fairly be called senior citizens.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut just like humans, you can't judge their abilities by age alone. Some, especially those that were originally designed as high-end business PCs, might still be capable of delivering excellent performance; others deserve to be retired.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F\"\u003EFor Windows 11 setup, which user account type should you choose? How to decide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get the full picture, you need to look closely at what's inside and then answer two questions:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIs there a TPM of any kind?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany, but not all PCs from this era include a Trusted Platform Module, and even a TPM1.2 is enough to pass muster for Microsoft's upgrade workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho made the CPU?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlmost all mainstream Intel CPUs from this era can meet the new, more stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, version 24H2, which means you can probably use the \"official\" workaround with those PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf it's equipped with an AMD processor, however, prepare to be disappointed. AMD didn't begin fully supporting the SSE3.2 and PopCnt instructions until around 2013, and I've heard from numerous owners of AMD-powered PCs from this era that are unable to upgrade to Windows 11. (For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven on a machine without a TPM, you can use a utility like Rufus to work around the compatibility blocks. But those PCs are probably running on borrowed time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFrom the Dark Ages of the Windows PC: 2009 and earlier\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this era, Windows Vista was the target of every Get a Mac ad, and Windows XP was the workhorse. If you work at a large company, you're probably surrounded by people who have no experience at all with those operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're planning to upgrade one of these old-timers, don't get your hopes up. For the most part, it was too early for TPMs to be included on any but the most advanced (for their day) business computers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore problematic is the fact that Intel CPUs through 2009 didn't support the required streaming extensions and instructions that Windows 11, version 24H2 demands. Likewise, all AMD CPUs from this era are unable to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might run across a high-end PC from this era that squeaks in just under the wire, but it's the exception and not the rule. Your old PC from this era might still be capable of doing a few tricks, but it's unlikely that it will be doing so with Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can't stand to put that old workhorse out to pasture, you'll need to find a new OS. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-replace-windows-with-linux-mint-on-your-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELinux, anyone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 08:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Does your PC have a future or is it time to consider retirement options? Here's what to look for.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6bdd85d5-6fb3-4547-b8c1-b029a0c4c41b",image:{id:"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0",filename:"gettyimages-183301913.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 00:37:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"glowing laptop",credits:"joshblake\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\u002Fgettyimages-183301913.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2ce2b63a-3389-4dce-8cbf-3959f53ba575\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Beata Zawrzel\u002FNurPhoto via Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 10 and 11\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1238265324.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F08\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"6457\" data-image-height=\"4305\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI sometimes need to record screen activity in Windows for a tutorial or demonstration or online class. Whether you're creating a presentation, devising a how-to video, or cooking up something for YouTube, you might want to record your screen activity in Windows as well.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA variety of third-party tools can handle that job -- some free and some paid. But rather than download and install an external program, you can take advantage of a couple of features built directly into Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAvailable in Windows 10 and 11, the Xbox Game Bar video-capture tool is designed to record gameplay on your PC. But it's a versatile tool that will capture just about any other type of screen activity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith Xbox Game Bar, you can easily record your screen, turn on the microphone to grab your voice or other audio, and save the recording to your PC. You can then manage all the recorded clips within the Game Bar interface and play any video. The video itself is saved as an MP4 file, so you can modify or spruce it up using any video editor. I'll show you this process in detail below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions\u002F\"\u003EHow to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut there's another option, at least if you use Windows 11. Once a simple screen-capture utility, the Snipping Tool can record any screen activity and save the recording as an MP4 video file. Let's check out both options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to record any screen activity in Windows with Xbox Game Bar\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5bd80f38-cd33-4202-ad5c-1502f5bd952f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn Windows 10 or 11, go to Settings &gt; Gaming &gt; Captures. The screens look different between Windows 10 and 11, but the settings are all the same.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fseven-ways-to-make-windows-11-less-annoying\u002F"\u003E7 ways to make Windows 11 less annoying\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy default, your screen recordings are saved in your user folder under Videos\\Captures, but you can change the location if you wish.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Go to the settings for Gaming\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"56071821-bdc8-4fee-9404-72678ccbc2b2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Go to the settings for Gaming\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"688\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8e55a2d5-01db-4a82-a115-ef8880cded73\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can opt to record activity that has already occurred. In Windows 10, turn on the switch for "Record in the background while I'm playing a game." In Windows 11, turn on the switch for "Record what happened." You can then determine the duration for background recording. Click the dropdown menu for "Record the last" to set the time to anywhere from 15 seconds to 10 minutes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Set the duration for background recording\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"085ed890-ccd2-4233-80a3-bf584e52c459\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set the duration for background recording\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"688\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"231b429e-d40c-4dc9-a2c3-7ad296fef700\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, check the boxes for "Record even when my PC isn't plugged in" and "Record while wirelessly projecting my screen" to enable both options.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-send-and-receive-imessages-on-windows\u002F"\u003EHow to send and receive iMessages on Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the dropdown menu for "Max recording length" to set it to 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, or 4 hours.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Enable your recording options\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a24e99d3-64af-4840-8152-ef159cdce738\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Maximum recording length options\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"688\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0697acb4-59d9-42a4-a191-e56a99b0ddda\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETurn on the switch for "Record audio when I record a game" or "Capture audio when recording a game." You're then able to set the quality of the audio, the recording volume for your microphone, and the volume for your PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Enable and control audio capture during screen recording\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"761b1b95-143b-4511-8af7-eee3dc69df1f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Enable and control audio capture during screen recording\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"688\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cfae1f81-5b1d-470a-96bb-ace540184a01\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe recommended frame rate is 30 frames per second. You can bump that up to 60fps, but 30fps should suffice for most recordings. The default video quality is set to standard, though you can change that to high if necessary. Finally, you can turn off the switch for "Capture mouse cursor when recording a game" if you don't typically record the mouse cursor.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Set frame rate and turn off Capture mouse cursor when recording a game\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"986603fd-aeac-49d8-9ead-93116a52dc94\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Video quality options\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"688\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c57c4613-44d2-438b-9a41-b79dea83e052\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESeveral keyboard shortcuts are available to control the Xbox Game Bar. In Windows 10, you can view and even change the shortcuts in the Settings screen. For this, go to Settings &gt; Gaming &gt; Xbox Game Bar.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best Windows laptops you can buy right now\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Windows 11, you have to open the Game Bar interface to view and modify the shortcuts. The following shortcuts are ones you'll want to keep in mind:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWindows key+G: Open Xbox Game Bar.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWindows key+Alt+R: Start or stop recording.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWindows key+ Alt+G: Record the last 30 seconds of screen activity.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWindows key+Alt+B: Turn HDR on or off.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWindows key+Alt+PrtScn: Take a static screenshot of your screen activity.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Control keyboard shortcuts\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4194b86d-b38e-413e-943d-4b03f04cfd48\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Xbox Game Bar shortcuts\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"664\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to run the Game Bar\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Set up the activity you want to record\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, let's display the Game Bar and activate it to record your screen activity. Set up the activity you wish to record. When ready, press Windows key+G. The top toolbar and the Capture pane for Game Bar should appear.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-reset-windows-11-without-losing-your-apps-files-and-settings\u002F\"\u003EHow to reset Windows 11 without losing your apps, files, and settings\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe top toolbar lets you show or hide the different menus and panes for Game Bar, including Widget, Audio, Capture, Performance, Resources, and Xbox Social. At a minimum, you'll want to see the Capture pane so you can start, control, and stop the capture. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4bf5008f-c182-4d23-b8c4-387553155655\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Game Bar interface\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-record-your-screen-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"635\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Start a recording\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETap the Record button in the Capture pane. Then perform the screen activity you want to capture. A small recording panel appears on the screen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"20e76011-078c-4e4d-a49e-2d2f0dfd461f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Starting a recording for a video\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-record-your-screen-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"631\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Stop and view your recording\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen you've completed the activity being captured, press the stop button on the small panel to stop the recording. A message pops up telling you that the game clip was recorded.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick that message or press Windows key+G to return to the Game Bar interface. A Gallery window appears with the name, date, and time of the recording, and the video available for playback. Tap the Play button in the viewer. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-windows-update-annoying-you-take-back-control-in-3-easy-steps\u002F\"\u003EIs Windows Update annoying you? Take back control in 3 easy steps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom there you can pause the video and raise or lower the volume.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"465e1d67-88a5-4842-929f-f48e3ab17317\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Playing on a video\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-record-your-screen-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"635\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. How to record without launching Game Bar \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, press Windows key+Alt+R. The small recording panel appears on the screen. Click the stop button when finished and then open Game Bar. Your new recording now appears in the Gallery window for you to play. If you need to capture the last 30 seconds of screen activity, press Windows key+ Alt+G.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0b026b0e-cd8e-4a76-aa34-2c697b886ec2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Using keyboard shortcut to record video\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-record-your-screen-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1454\" data-image-height=\"756\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. How to work with recorded video directly\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGo to c:\\users\\[username]\\Videos\\Captures. You'll see your videos saved as MP4 files, which you can open in a video editor or other application to play or modify them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"29e5f7e0-e53c-4fec-89b6-a32c22533c4f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Using File Explorer to play or edit video\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-record-your-screen-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1198\" data-image-height=\"582\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E6. How to tweak Game Bar settings \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPress Windows key+G. On the top toolbar, click the Settings icon. Here, you can view and change any of the shortcut keys, modify the visual theme of the Game Bar interface and the transparency of the menus and panes, and control how and when audio is recording as you capture your screen activity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"92424306-093c-42ad-9f89-436cc9f171c5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Xbox Game Bar settings\" data-image-filename=\"figure-12-how-to-record-your-screen-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1196\" data-image-height=\"754\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to record your screen in Windows 11 with the Snipping Tool\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Check your OS version\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo record your screen in Windows 11 with the Snipping Tool, you'll need a certain build for the operating system. To check, go to Settings > System > About. In the Windows specifications section, the build should be 22621.1344 or higher. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F11-windows-touchpad-tricks-to-help-you-work-faster-and-smarter\u002F\"\u003E11 Windows touchpad tricks to help you work faster and smarter\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you qualify, you're good to go. If not, head to Windows Update to snag the latest updates for the OS and then to the Microsoft Store and your library to grab the latest updates for your Store apps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Set up the window or app you want to record\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the Start button, go to All Apps, and then click the shortcut for Snipping Tool. Click the Camera icon on the toolbar and then select the New button.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"315f7b31-383e-4902-9df4-927ebeff58c2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping Tool with frog displayed on screen\" data-image-filename=\"figure-13-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1198\" data-image-height=\"809\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Focus on the right area\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESelect the area you want to record and then click Start on the Snipping Tool toolbar.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b75c7d2e-72e0-435a-8492-7bc19ae4c262\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Clicking Start on the Snipping Tool toolbar\" data-image-filename=\"figure-14-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"852\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. Perform the activity\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter the recording starts, perform the screen activity you want to capture. Click the Pause button on the toolbar to take a break and then click the Record button to restart. When done, click the Stop button.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f75e178a-0c4f-4df3-821c-4d5ad4008feb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Stopping the recording\" data-image-filename=\"figure-15-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"884\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. Edit, share, or save the file\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe recording automatically starts playing in a Snipping Tool preview window. From there, click the Edit in Clipchamp icon to edit the video. Click the Share icon to share the file with a person or app. Click the Save button to save the recording as an MP4 video file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4eae8c85-7f22-4aff-98f4-f5fae9c888eb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Editing the video in Clipchamp\" data-image-filename=\"figure-16-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"692\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E6. Set your preferred audio recording source\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the latest update to the Snipping Tool, you can now configure your audio settings before you start your screen recording. To do this in the Snipping Tool, click the ellipsis icon in the upper right and select Settings. Scroll down the screen to the section for Screen recording.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fwiping-a-windows-laptop-heres-the-safest-free-way-to-erase-your-personal-data\u002F\"\u003EWiping a Windows laptop? Here's the safest free way to erase your personal data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo automatically start recording audio through your microphone, turn on the switch for Include microphone input by default when a screen recording starts. To automatically start recording your PC's system audio, turn on the switch for Include system audio by default when a screen recording starts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring the actual screen recording, you can also opt to mute the audio from the microphone or from the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3226b191-c9a6-4f29-b8cf-0098256fba79\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set your preferred audio recording source\" data-image-filename=\"figure-17-how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"670\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-08-21 12:21:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Windows 10 and 11 each offer a built-in screen-recording tool for gaming, though it can record just about any screen activity. And Windows 11 has an even better option. Here's what to know.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"563450da-b632-40c1-9c7b-9ef79ea6d9e2",image:{id:"2ce2b63a-3389-4dce-8cbf-3959f53ba575",filename:"gettyimages-1238265324.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-08-21 12:18:07",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Windows 10 and 11",credits:"Beata Zawrzel\u002FNurPhoto via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F2ce2b63a-3389-4dce-8cbf-3959f53ba575\u002Fgettyimages-1238265324.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:6457,height:4305,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Creativity Software",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11 with built-in tools",topic:{id:"60d9173f-03f6-41a6-9196-b2b5131cf205",slug:"creativity-software",name:"Creativity Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"60d9173f-03f6-41a6-9196-b2b5131cf205",slug:"creativity-software",name:"Creativity Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f5598ed1-ee82-4504-ac45-d6733a3ec13a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 11 desktop\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft wants people to upgrade to Windows 11, but the company certainly doesn't make it easy. The latest version of Windows imposes strict hardware and security requirements, ruling out older PCs that don't make the grade. Plus, Microsoft \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-clamps-down-on-windows-11-users-who-want-local-accounts-but-this-trick-still-works\u002F\"\u003Emakes it almost impossible to use a local account\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with a new Windows 11 installation. So, what can you do if you want to jump to Windows 11 but keep bumping into Microsoft's restrictions?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI regularly use Rufus, a handy and free Windows installation tool. Designed to run or install Windows from a USB drive, Rufus can help you sneak past some of Microsoft's stringent and annoying requirements. You can tell Rufus to sidestep the hardware constraints, bypass the need for a Microsoft account, and choose a name for the local account you want to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can skirt past the hardware restrictions whether you're upgrading your existing Windows 10 PC or installing Windows 11 on a clean computer. The account type you use depends on whether you're upgrading or installing Windows 11 from scratch. An upgrade to Windows 11 will preserve whatever type of account you set up in Windows 10 -- local or Microsoft. With a fresh install, however, Rufus will let you opt for a local account, which Microsoft doesn't easily allow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fwiping-a-windows-laptop-heres-the-safest-free-way-to-erase-your-personal-data\u002F\"\u003EWiping a Windows laptop? Here's the safest free way to erase your personal data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's how this all works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to install Windows 11 the way you want with Rufus\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat you'll need\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Before you can use Rufus, you'll need an ISO file of the latest version of Windows 11, which you can get from Microsoft's website. You'll also need a USB drive with at least 8GB of space.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDownload and set up Rufus\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4d0b6c24-6c4e-4401-8bcd-723380941b3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETo snag the Windows 11 ISO file, browse to the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11" target="_blank"\u003EDownload Windows 11 webpage\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Scroll down to the section that says "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)" and select Windows 11 from the drop-down menu. Choose the product language, click Confirm, and then click the Download button to save the ISO file to your PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Download the Windows 11 ISO file\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"668ce034-d3e0-419a-9ad4-5741f8e736cb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Download the Windows 11 ISO file\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1197\" data-image-height=\"846\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a80a7a6f-b07b-4a8f-82f3-bc04b125ca04\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, browse to the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Frufus.ie\u002Fen\u002F"\u003ERufus website\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Scroll down to the Download section and click the link for the latest version of Rufus for your version of Windows. Run the downloaded EXE file to launch the program -- no installation required. Insert a USB stick into your PC. Note that Rufus will completely reformat your USB drive with the Windows 11 installation files.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Download and launch Rufus\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d66b7202-08ae-46a4-b1ff-53e006ebe627\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Download and launch Rufus\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1129\" data-image-height=\"714\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f8ca6ef4-549f-46a2-841c-05565d52b726\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt the Rufus window, click the Select button near the top and select the Windows 11 ISO file that you downloaded. Under "Image option," confirm that the field says Standard Windows installation. At the top of the screen, make sure the Device field is pointing to the USB drive you wish to use. If not, click the drop-down menu and manually select the drive. You can leave the other settings alone. When you're&nbsp;ready, click the Start button at the bottom of the window.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Set up Rufus\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6feb554a-5234-498b-87ee-4e211d449f50\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up Rufus\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1165\" data-image-height=\"768\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsix-things-you-should-do-right-away-with-your-new-windows-11-pc\u002F\"\u003EWindows 11: Do these six things right away after you finish setup\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBypass Windows 11's hardware requirements\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2791a46e-fa1e-4f9b-93db-6eccbff9f7da\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt the pop-up window, check the box for "Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0." This should ensure that the Windows 11 installation won't be blocked if your PC doesn't qualify. Keep in mind that Microsoft has cautioned against running Windows 11 on an unsupported computer, so this is an unofficial workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Remove the hardware requirements\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"39609a07-8dd3-4107-b1e7-075556f534b4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Remove the hardware requirements\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1179\" data-image-height=\"769\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d6c99baf-445c-46a6-a8f3-2e576019e7d5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EClick OK to confirm. Click OK again to set up your USB drive. Wait until the drive is formatted and created with the necessary Windows 11 installation files. When you're done, make sure the USB drive is connected to the Windows 10 computer you want to upgrade or the PC on which you want to install Windows 11 from scratch.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Set up the USB drive\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ee8dc427-62b6-4981-b485-9c04afa18940\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up USB drive\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1118\" data-image-height=\"758\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e71e4be3-b7ef-41d6-bb5a-23e92ebe384a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor an upgrade, open the USB drive in File Explorer and double-click the EXE file for Windows 11. On a clean PC, boot off the USB drive to install a free copy of Windows 11. Run through the Windows setup screens. The setup should pass with flying colors, even though Windows 11 may not support your hardware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Install and set up Windows 11\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5b153762-3073-45fa-aeea-ba9558c4bacd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Install and set up Windows 11\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"730\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003EThe best Windows laptops you can buy: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8be68973-cde0-4004-bfc1-311b801e6038\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter the setup is complete, you'll be taken to the Windows 11 desktop. If you upgraded from Windows 10, make sure that all your apps, files, and settings are intact so you can begin using the new version. If you're starting fresh with Windows 11, you can now install the apps you need and tweak the settings as you see fit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Sign into Windows 11\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"05e223b2-08bd-4372-b4a3-06d8a3290107\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sign into Windows 11\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"730\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EUse a local account on Windows 11\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4ca59d3f-4b09-4ade-b950-0153d493f56b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you're installing Windows 11 on a clean PC and want to choose a local account, you can use Rufus to beat Microsoft at its own game. For this to work, you have to specify the name of the local account. Again, set up Rufus and click the Start button. At the pop-up window, check the boxes for "Remove requirements for an online Microsoft account" and "Create a local account with username." Then, type the local account name you wish to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Use a local account\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c3d976c8-5c23-429f-9c47-65d950dfd2ad\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Use a local account\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1171\" data-image-height=\"773\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a8cee914-3e60-4a8c-8779-1e2c2ddbf6a9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EClick OK and then OK again. After Rufus formats the drive and sets it up with the Windows 11 installation files, insert it into the computer on which you want to install the OS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Set up the USB drive\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7b8c135e-0695-485f-8666-29aea4abf020\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up USB drive\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1118\" data-image-height=\"758\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"83096a53-df80-48c1-a3d0-fe122f5d63b9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ERestart your computer and press the appropriate key to go to the boot menu. Boot off the USB drive, and the Windows 11 installation should start. Go through the usual setup screens, and the local account you specified should be automatically applied.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Set up Windows 11\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"67e8e921-89ef-4da7-9589-86def7d39ce8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up Windows 11\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1024\" data-image-height=\"768\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-restores-its-guide-that-helps-you-switch-from-a-microsoft-account-to-a-local-account\u002F\"\u003EHow to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account, and tricks to avoid a Microsoft account\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1aa06936-c630-4b4b-bb2e-2b93a9bc5c52\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter the setup is finished, you should be taken to the Windows 11 desktop. You now need to create a password for your local account. Sign out or restart your PC. Back at the sign-in screen, you'll be told that your password must be changed before signing in. Click OK. At the next screen, leave the Password field blank. Enter the password you want to use in the "New password" and "Confirm password" fields, and then click the right arrow next to the Confirm password field. Click OK, and you should be returned to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Create a password for your local account\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1f3aa4e8-5e3f-4001-995d-f29174306fdb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Create a password for your local account\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"689\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cf581910-cf1c-452b-becc-ea3ccfa58b30\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESign back in to Windows 11 with your local account. To view details on the account, go to Settings and select Accounts. Your local account should be shown by name.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Sign into Windows\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d170cfa2-3497-44cb-92a2-4221c62f817a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sign into Windows\" data-image-filename=\"figure-12-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F07\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"696\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-is-changing-how-it-delivers-windows-updates-4-things-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft is changing how it delivers Windows updates: 4 things you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-08-18 15:04:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"With the free Rufus utility, you can avoid Microsoft's stringent and annoying requirements to upgrade your existing Windows 10 PC or install Windows 11 on a clean computer - your way. Here's how to do it.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"2baa2bd7-f88e-4e07-ad05-3265b533b006",image:{id:"1f3aa4e8-5e3f-4001-995d-f29174306fdb",filename:"figure-11-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-07-24 13:59:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Create a password for your local account",credits:"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F07\u002F24\u002F1f3aa4e8-5e3f-4001-995d-f29174306fdb\u002Ffigure-11-how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-with-rufus.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1200,height:689,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cde5f00a-4d6c-47d1-81b5-6ffcbea53b9b\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"porcorex\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"escae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719\" data-image-filename=\"escae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F04\" data-image-width=\"904\" data-image-height=\"631\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUpdate: As of October 1, 2024, Microsoft has made it more difficult to bypass these compatibility checks -- but there is a workaround. For details, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-cracks-down-on-windows-11-upgrades-for-incompatible-pcs-but-theres-a-fix-for-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esee this article\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Holy moly, it worked!\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat was the reaction of a reader who successfully upgraded a 12-year-old PC from Windows 10 to Windows 11 after being repeatedly blocked by the compatibility checker in Microsoft's Windows 11 Setup program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-tpm-and-why-does-windows-11-require-one\u002F\"\u003EWhat is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe had followed the advice in my recent article, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11,\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and we'd exchanged several emails over a few days as he tried to figure out why it wasn't working. After getting over the final hurdle, he concluded, \"We saved another laptop from the scrap pile.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWithin the first week after I posted that article, two dozen people responded to my request for reports of their upgrade experience with similar reactions. Remarkably, every one of those correspondents was able to complete the upgrade, with those successes including at least two machines that were 15 years old. In the month after that, I heard from hundreds of people, with virtually all of them reporting success.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe results were enlightening, and thanks to those reports I've been able to formulate some guidelines to follow when deciding the best way to complete a Windows 11 upgrade. That's especially important with the end-of-support date for Windows 10 arriving in October 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft has a big Windows 10 problem, and only one year to solve it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are two options available for upgrading to Windows 11 on a PC that doesn't satisfy the operating system's compatibility requirements. One is fully documented by Microsoft but still requires PCs to pass a lower compatibility threshold. The other is an undocumented hack that bypasses Microsoft's compatibility checker completely.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, which one should you choose? That depends on which issues are preventing your PC from upgrading.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat's blocking your upgrade?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe published \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fwindows-11-specifications#primaryR2\"\u003Esystem requirements for Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are as follows:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProcessor: 1GHz or faster with two or more cores on a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FCPUlist\"\u003Ecompatible 64-bit processor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or system on a chip (SoC)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERAM: at least 4GB\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EStorage: at least 64GB of available storage\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESecurity: TPM version 2.0, UEFI firmware, Secure Boot capable\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGraphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDisplay: High-definition (720p) display, 9-inch or greater monitor, 8-bits per color channel\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome of those requirements are easy to meet. I doubt anyone will try upgrading a PC with less than 4 GB of memory, 64 GB of main storage, and a single-core CPU. If you have a PC with those specs, it's probably close to 20 years old, and it's time to retire it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-set-up-god-mode-in-windows-11-and-why-you-should\u002F\"\u003EHow to set up God Mode in Windows 11 (and why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe areas where an older PC is most likely to stumble are the CPU and security requirements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIncompatible CPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E The official upgrade requirements block upgrades on systems with CPUs that aren't on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002Fcpulist\"\u003Ethis official list\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. That rules out PCs built using most Intel Core processors earlier than 8th Generation (Coffee Lake, late 2017) as well as AMD Zen 1 processors.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETPM 2.0 supported and enabled:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Most PCs designed for Windows 10 include a firmware-based TPM. Some PCs from 2015 and earlier, typically business-class models, might include a TPM 1.2 as a separate component. (For more details on what this component does, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-tpm-and-why-does-windows-11-require-one\u002F\"\u003E\"What is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESecure Boot supported:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E This is one of the more confusing requirements. The Secure Boot feature doesn't have to be enabled, it just has to be supported, and that means that the system has to be configured to use the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). If your system uses a Legacy BIOS, it will fail this test.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe easiest way to determine whether you'll be able to complete a simple Windows 11 upgrade is to run the PC Health Check utility, shown here.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b17589be-dd28-49c7-8136-09798331d962\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EClick the "Check now" button to see which compatibility issues are blocking your Windows 11 upgrade.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"pc-health-check-1\" data-image-filename=\"pc-health-check-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"897\" data-image-height=\"767\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGrab the download from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FGetPCHealthCheckApp\"\u003Ehttps:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FGetPCHealthCheckApp\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and install it. Then run the app and click the \"Check now\" button under the \"Introducing Windows 11\" heading. That action returns a list that shows you any areas where your system doesn't meet the full Windows 11 compatibility requirements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"df1f4953-5094-4b23-9152-ace99a5c47b2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EBecause this PC doesn't have a TPM, you'll need to use an unsupported hack to complete the upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"pc-health-check-win11-compat\" data-image-filename=\"pc-health-check-win11-compat.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"897\" data-image-height=\"767\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo check your Secure Boot status, use Microsoft's System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe. On the main page, labeled System Summary, look for the entries labeled BIOS Mode and Secure Boot State. This system (a virtual machine I created using a Legacy BIOS) is ineligible for a Windows 11 upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a1988931-b4d3-43e9-833d-ac782e8395b2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you see these two entries in System Information, you'll be blocked from a normal upgrade to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"system-info-legacy-bios\" data-image-filename=\"system-info-legacy-bios.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"693\" data-image-height=\"782\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArmed with that information, you can now choose your upgrade strategy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhich upgrade option should you choose?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I mentioned earlier, you have two options for upgrading a Windows 10 PC that fails Microsoft's compatibility tests. I document both of those options in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11,\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOption 1: A simple registry edit\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's documented (but unsupported) option is effective for PCs that were originally designed for Windows 10 and have no compatibility issues other than the CPU being too old.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstill-have-a-windows-10-pc-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F\"\u003EStill have a Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options before support ends\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo enable that upgrade, you make a single change to the Windows registry that tells the Windows Setup program to ignore the CPU check and to allow an upgrade as long as any TPM is present.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf the PC Health Check app says your PC has an incompatible CPU, but it passes every other test, including the presence of a TPM 2.0 module, this option is for you.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYou can also choose this upgrade technique if you have an older PC with a TPM 1.2 chip installed and enabled.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn some cases, you might need to go into your PC's firmware settings and enable the TPM to continue.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeven of the people who reported on their Windows 11 upgrade experience said this option worked for them. \"Went without a hitch,\" one reader said, echoing the consensus. Another person reported that he had just purchased a Dell OptiPlex PC with a 7th Generation Intel Core i7 with 32 GB of RAM from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fb\u002F?ie=UTF8&node=17871138011&tag=mh0b-20&hvadid=78134084209609&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=bb&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_5omxregrn_b\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAmazon Renewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The upgrade \"worked beautifully,\" he said in an email.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwant-to-keep-getting-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-what-it-will-cost\u002F\"\u003EWant to keep getting Windows 10 updates next year? Here's what it will cost\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo correspondents cautioned that the upgrade took several hours longer than they expected. Your total time will vary depending on your hardware, free disk space, and internet connection speed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd don't be surprised if there's a lengthy pause when Windows Setup begins gathering updates and hits the 46% mark. That's normal. Resist the urge to cancel and start over.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOption 2: Bypass all compatibility checks\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost PCs designed in 2015 or earlier will be unable to take advantage of the simple registry edit to complete the upgrade. That's because they typically have no TPM or are configured with a Legacy BIOS rather than UEFI and thus don't support Secure Boot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat was the case with roughly half the people who sent in upgrade reports. The most common configurations were PCs running 3rd- or 4th-generation Intel Core CPUs. In every one of those cases, poking around in firmware settings confirmed that there was no TPM option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-debloating-windows-is-a-bad-idea-and-what-to-do-instead\u002F\"\u003EWhy 'debloating' Windows is a bad idea (and what to do instead)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you find yourself in that situation, there's an unsupported hack that allows you to run Windows 11 Setup and bypass all compatibility checks. If you're sufficiently technically advanced, you can do this yourself by copying the Windows 11 installation files from the ISO download to a local folder and replacing the Appraiserres.dll file in the Sources subfolder with a 0-byte file using the same name.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf that last paragraph reads like complete gibberish, there's an easier way. Use a free, open-source utility such as Rufus, which is available as a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Frufus.ie\u002F\"\u003Edirect download\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002FproductId\u002F9PC3H3V7Q9CH?ocid=pdpshare\"\u003Efrom the Microsoft Store\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. (Another option, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fventoy\u002FVentoy\u002Freleases\"\u003EVentoy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is more challenging to use but might be appealing to people with a highly technical background.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can find full instructions for using Rufus to enable a Windows 11 upgrade in my post, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11,\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E Be sure to choose the option to customize the Windows installation and remove those pesky compatibility restrictions, as shown here.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"891df8c9-b105-4e03-82b0-b7b129b875e2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis option isn't magic. It simply adds a required zero-byte file to the Windows 11 installation drive to bypass compatibility checks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"rufus-compatibility-check\" data-image-filename=\"rufus-compatibility-check.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"548\" data-image-height=\"263\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, in October 2024, Microsoft implemented a change to its compatibility checker that makes this option more difficult to employ. After creating the necessary installation files, you need to open an elevated Command Prompt and issue a series of five commands. Rather than repeat those instructions here, I refer you to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11,\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E All the details you need are in the section headed \"Option 2.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe most common complaint among readers who used this method is that it took longer than they expected. \"Sure took its time!\" one person noted. That might have more to do with the capability of the older hardware than with the upgrade method. As with the other upgrade technique, several people reported that the installation appeared to hang at 46% but eventually continued after the download of required updates was complete.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003EThe best Windows laptop you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, this technique got high marks. One person wrote, \"As a novice, I found the Rufus route to be simple and painless.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to add your report, or if you've tried either approach and have run into issues, send an email to Win11Upgrade [at] realworldwindows.com. I can't promise a reply, but I'm checking every message sent to this special inbox.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published on September 10, 2024, and last updated October 5, 2024. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-10-05 12:06:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"If your PC runs Windows 10, you can ignore those pesky compatibility checks and upgrade to Windows 11. Here's how nearly two dozen ZDNET readers got the job done and saved their laptops from the scrap pile.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0941316c-9803-4141-95a3-51a76f55e39a",image:{id:"cde5f00a-4d6c-47d1-81b5-6ffcbea53b9b",filename:"escae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-10-04 20:20:14",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"escae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719",credits:"porcorex\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F04\u002Fcde5f00a-4d6c-47d1-81b5-6ffcbea53b9b\u002Fescae2screenshot-2024-10-04-161719.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:904,height:631,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"you-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"264e43b9-8395-4a6a-a91c-bf22d61352df\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"nensuria\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"doghomepcgettyimages-1283669159\" data-image-filename=\"doghomepcgettyimages-1283669159.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe DNS, or Domain Name System, acts as a phone book for the internet to convert between IP address and domain name. By default, your Windows computer uses whatever DNS server is set up by your internet provider. But you don't have to stick with that server. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhy would you want to change it? Certain third-party DNS services can provide tighter security and faster performance than the one from your ISP. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F5-ways-to-save-your-windows-10-pc-in-2025-and-most-are-free\u002F\"\u003E5 ways to save your Windows 10 PC in 2025 - and most are free\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESuch services include Google DNS, Cloudflare, OpenDNS, and Comodo SecureDNS. Here's how to change your PC's DNS settings to use an alternate provider.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, let's look at how to switch the DNS server settings. Then we'll check out some of the third-party DNS providers. Note: The steps to change the DNS server are different for Windows 10 and Windows 11. We'll cover Windows 10 first.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to change the DNS settings in Windows 10\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b3d0c5b9-3b23-4fc9-8642-7da522be092c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn Windows 10, go to Settings and select "Network &amp; Internet." In the section for "Advanced network settings," select the setting for "Change adapter options."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Go to advanced network settings\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dfb31c21-b9d7-4966-a27b-237ef17c3803\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Go to advanced settings\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1127\" data-image-height=\"616\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d8612f90-b453-48ba-a51f-0a098dfda317\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn the Network Connections Control Panel window, right-click the icon for the connection you want to change, such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and select Properties.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Select Properties\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b22a9650-a24e-4640-b9ac-df2c33c0f28e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select Properties\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1194\" data-image-height=\"440\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"36ba8602-2f21-49ed-9380-0e052e69f9b9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn the Properties window, click the entry for Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP\u002FIP v4) and then click the Properties button.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP\u002FIP v4)\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cad4a286-f48c-47bc-95c9-e62a30a368ab\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP\u002FIP v4)\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1194\" data-image-height=\"530\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"77490a94-288d-4207-b987-a56acee5afb0\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn the Properties window for Internet Protocol Version 4, select the radio button for "Use the following DNS server addresses."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENotice that there are fields for preferred and alternate DNS server. The alternate server is used if the preferred one is unavailable or not responding quickly enough. Type the IP addresses provided by the service of your choice for both servers in the appropriate fields and click OK. Then close the Properties window\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Change the DNS server addresses\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"299b4879-44d0-4b6b-908b-2eb87589b217\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Change the DNS server addresses\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1194\" data-image-height=\"530\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best Windows laptops you can buy: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to change the DNS settings in Windows 11\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"790add9f-4e27-4882-9d2f-cf75e1e6c491\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn Windows 11, go to Settings, select "Network &amp; Internet," and then click&nbsp; the option for "Advanced network settings."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Go to advanced network settings\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f7cc97dc-3eda-4425-92b0-57a5cac9897a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Go to advanced network settings\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1158\" data-image-height=\"657\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"34b93f07-68d2-4c91-a1f9-45ded377f52f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EClick the entry for the type of connection you wish to modify: Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Then, select the option for "View additional properties."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. View additional properties\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9fdcaf9c-12cc-4fd3-aa2c-e9b063dd20a9\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"View additional Properties\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1158\" data-image-height=\"657\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7fee7651-f62d-4961-a83a-c41500be046b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt the Properties screen, click the Edit button for DNS server assignment. In the window for Edit DNS settings, click the dropdown menu for Automatic (DHCP) and change it to Manual. Turn on the switch for IPv4 and type the IP addresses for the preferred and alternate DNS servers in the appropriate fields, remembering to add the dots in the right spots. Click Save.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Change the DNS servers\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"20b3d81c-0def-47d2-8059-057e5d5314bb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Change the DNS servers\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1158\" data-image-height=\"657\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EShould you change the IPv6 address?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince the world has already run out of IP version 4 addresses, we've been transitioning to IP version 6, which provides a much greater range of usable addresses. So does that mean you should also change the DNS servers for IPv6? Not necessarily. Most ISPs either don't support IPv6 or are still in the testing phase. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can check if your internet provider has jumped on board the version 6 bandwagon. Browse to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftest-ipv6.com\u002F\"\u003ETest-IPv6 website\u003C\u002Fa\u003E using your current connection. The results will tell you whether your ISP supports the newer protocol. If so, most third-party services do provide IPv6 addresses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThird-party DNS providers\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow that you know the process for changing your DNS server settings, let's look at a few third-party services worth trying.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EGoogle Public DNS\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e5513a67-5b53-405c-b8a8-b0454b09e718\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EGoogle Public DNS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Google Public DNS page\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1185\" data-image-height=\"690\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdevelopers.google.com\u002Fspeed\u002Fpublic-dns\u002F\"\u003EGoogle Public DNS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is one of the most popular third-party DNS providers, handling name and IP address resolution faster than many other services. Google's DNS server is designed to protect you against spoofing attacks that try to redirect you to malicious sites. The company's website for its DNS service shares details about its performance and security features and offers an issue tracker and a user forum.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhate-windows-11-heres-how-to-make-it-work-more-like-windows-10\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHate Windows 11? Here's how to make it work more like Windows 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EGoogle Public DNS addresses\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv4: \u003Cstrong\u003E8.8.8.8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E8.8.4.4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv6: \u003Cstrong\u003E2001:4860:4860::8888\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E2001:4860:4860::8844\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECloudflare DNS\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dba7beec-4e91-4cfb-bd4e-83af0c32ac6f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ECloudflare DNS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Cloudflare DNS setup on PC\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"912\" data-image-height=\"700\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002F1.1.1.1\u002F\"\u003ECloudflare DNS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is another alternative DNS provider that aims to be faster than competing services. Cloudflare also vows that it won't log your IP address, a process used by many ISPs that gives them the ability to record the sites you visit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECloudflare DNS addresses\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv4: \u003Cstrong\u003E1.1.1.1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E1.0.0.1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv6: \u003Cstrong\u003E2606:4700:4700::1111\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E2606:4700:4700::1001\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOpenDNS\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9be4f95c-0b20-443b-811e-4f1e5348621a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOpenDNS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"OpenDNS benefits matrix\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F06\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1276\" data-image-height=\"785\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOwned and operated by Cisco, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.opendns.com\u002Fhome-internet-security\u002F\"\u003EOpenDNS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E offers two free packages for consumers. On the free side, the basic package is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsignup.opendns.com\u002Fhomefree\u002F\"\u003EOpenDNS Home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, while the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsignup.opendns.com\u002Ffamilyshield\u002F\"\u003EOpenDNS Family Shield\u003C\u002Fa\u003E plan can block adult content for those who have children at home.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOpenDNS Home addresses\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv4: \u003Cstrong\u003E208.67.222.222\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E208.67.220.220\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv6: \u003Cstrong\u003E2620:119:35::35\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E2620:119:53::53\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOpenDNS Family Shield addresses\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv4: \u003Cstrong\u003E208.67.222.123\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E208.67.220.123\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EComodo SecureDNS\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0012d5da-9534-44a7-8f6d-1c60d2624d6c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EComodo SecureDNS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Comodo Secure DNS page\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1183\" data-image-height=\"621\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EComing from a reliable cybersecurity company, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsecuredns.dnsbycomodo.com\u002F\"\u003EComodo SecureDNS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is worth considering if you're concerned about your online security. The company's DNS service tries to protect you from phishing attacks and malware. SecureDNS also keeps a real-time list of malicious websites and warns you if you attempt to access one of them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-new-windows-features-makes-password-hacking-attacks-much-harder\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis new Windows feature makes password-hacking attacks much harder\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EComodo SecureDNS addresses\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIPv4: \u003Cstrong\u003E8.26.56.26\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E8.20.247.20\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EChange your router's DNS settings\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, you can easily change the DNS settings for all the computers and other devices in your home by switching them directly on your router. To do this, sign into your router's firmware. Look for a setting for Internet or network setup and find the section for DNS addresses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe existing option is likely set to get the addresses from your ISP. Change that to manually assign the addresses and then type the preferred and alternate addresses from the service of your choice.  When done, apply the new settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"31ec23c3-a7db-4f46-8230-ee828ebcb78d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EChange your router's DNS settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Page to change your router's DNS settings\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"811\" data-image-height=\"341\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-06-05 20:37:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Switching to a different DNS provider than your ISP can offer faster performance and better security. We show you how - and recommend the best options.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"c9b8d93e-efdf-4129-ab78-20b75ace25d7",image:{id:"264e43b9-8395-4a6a-a91c-bf22d61352df",filename:"doghomepcgettyimages-1283669159.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-06-05 18:17:11",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"doghomepcgettyimages-1283669159",credits:"nensuria\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F05\u002F264e43b9-8395-4a6a-a91c-bf22d61352df\u002Fdoghomepcgettyimages-1283669159.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-change-the-dns-settings-on-your-windows-pc-and-why-youd-want-to",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to change the DNS settings on your Windows PC - and why you'd want to",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"226def65-03d9-492b-998d-e1caaf811b1b\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"search-organization-on-the-taskbar.png\" data-image-filename=\"search-organization-on-the-taskbar.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"601\" data-image-height=\"546\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERecently, I tried to run a search in Windows for specific Word documents based on the filename. I expected a number of different results. Instead, Windows delivered only one result and not any of the ones I wanted. Oops.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe search feature in Windows is a usually a handy and effective way to hunt for specific files and other items. But sometimes, it fails to work properly, coming up empty when there should be at least a few results in response to your search.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhy does Windows search occasionally fall down on the job and how can you get it to work properly again? Let's go through a few troubleshooting steps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECheck the search settings\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, check the Search settings in Windows to make sure they're configured the way you want. In Windows 10, click the Search field. In Windows 11, click the Search icon. Then in either version, click the ellipsis icon in the Search window and select Search settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDepending on what type of account you have (business or Microsoft account) and what applications and services you use, go to the Cloud content search section and turn on the switches for Microsoft account or Work or School account. By doing this, any files or other items that you search for across different Microsoft services will appear in the results. Next, turn on the switch for Search history on this device. Doing so ensures that your search history is stored locally on your computer (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"785e2628-9bd3-4a31-a7a0-b4b675550473\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Configure your search permissions and history\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"620\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENormally when you configure your search settings and permissions, you want to strike a balance between productivity and privacy. You don't necessarily want Microsoft tracking and storing everything you do. But when troubleshooting a search problem, you want to loosen up the restrictions to some degree to see if the glitch is fixed. You can always fine-tune the settings later on once the search issue has been resolved.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt this point, try rerunning your searches to see if the results are now accurate and as expected. If not, time to ask Windows for some help.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERun the search indexer troubleshooter\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Windows search index collects and stores links to certain folders on your PC to speed up a search. But that index can sometimes develop internal problems. One way to diagnose this patient is through a built-in Windows troubleshooter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Windows 10 or 11, click the Search icon or field again. Click the ellipsis icon and then select Indexing options. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. In Windows 10, click the link that says: Run the indexer troubleshooter to resolve common search issues. In Windows 11, click the entry for Index troubleshooter. Check the box that best describes the problem and click Next (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"930e68b9-845d-4733-bfcf-cf8a651683e2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Run the search indexer troubleshooter\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"664\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe troubleshooter may ask for your permission to diagnose or fix the problem. If so, give it the OK. If it indicates that the problem has been resolved, try rerunning the search to confirm  (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). If all is well, great. If not, let's try another approach.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a1b3eb19-d1b1-4168-82b9-6668083e02b3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"The indexer troubleshooter has fixed the problem, you hope.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"664\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECustomize search locations\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy default, the search index covers only certain locations on your PC, including the Users folder. But if you store files or documents in a location not seen by the index, your search results may be inaccurate. To fix this, click the link for Customize search locations here (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"14b92d3a-cb49-4ac6-aaae-9abe8461b818\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Add more folders to the search index\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"620\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the Indexing Options window, click the Modify button. At the Indexed Location window, open the drive and then click the checkbox for the folder in which your documents are stored (assuming they're not stored in your Users folder). Click OK and then close the indexing windows (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"49c0fd46-91c9-48fc-a2f2-2a0dba082b00\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Check a specific folder to add\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"620\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow try rerunning the problematic search to see if the results are more accurate. If not, you can open up the indexing to your entire PC. Back at the Searching Windows screen, check the button for Enhanced. Scroll down the page to check the folders that will still be excluded from the index. Typically, these are Windows or application folders that shouldn't be storing any documents or personal files (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"30545ef9-f304-424c-aad0-54f8ea924f5c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose the Enhanced option for the index\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"664\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe upside is that the index will now cover all possible locations on your PC. The downside is that the indexing and your searches will take longer to complete. But again, you're trying these different steps for troubleshooting reasons. You can always change the settings in the future after the current search glitch has been fixed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERebuild the search index\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your searches still aren't working properly, there's no more step to try, namely rebuilding the search index. This was ultimately the remedy I had to take to fix the search issues on my PC. At the Search Windows page, click the entry for Advanced Search Indexer Settings in Windows 10 and Advanced indexing options in Windows 11. At the Indexing Options window, click the Advanced button. At the Advanced Options window, click the Rebuild button and then click OK (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"84d1d189-723a-48d1-9e90-576022b98ab0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Rebuilt the search index\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-fix-search-snafus-in-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1195\" data-image-height=\"664\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile you wait, the window will indicate how many items have been indexed. After the rebuild has completed, try running your search once more; hopefully, you'll get the right results this time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-27 20:32:24",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Windows search feature sometimes fails to deliver the right results. Here's how to find what you're looking for in Windows.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"1de9a5d0-5edd-4e24-b783-863eb186675c",image:{id:"06e50580-5943-4448-848b-3320feec66fc",filename:"figure-8-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-21 16:46:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F21\u002F06e50580-5943-4448-848b-3320feec66fc\u002Ffigure-8-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1112,height:541,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-fix-search-glitches-in-windows",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to fix search glitches in Windows",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"df75c005-715d-4ff8-82e7-88bbd1c4e6c3",slug:"operating-systems",name:"Operating Systems",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e2b38f36-c7ce-4765-ac9b-b9663b0f2b92\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"onedrive-best-cloud-storage-service.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"onedrive-best-cloud-storage-service.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022-04-14 19:12:08.000000\" data-image-width=\"1910\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETrying to find an older version of a file or document that's been deleted or modified in Windows is always a challenge. But one tool that can help is OneDrive. For those of you who use Microsoft's backup and syncing service, OneDrive offers its own Recycle Bin that hangs onto deleted files for up to 30 days. Beyond that, OneDrive offers both a version history option and a restore function through which you can see and restore previous versions of files that have been updated. Here's how this works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, you naturally have to make sure you're using OneDrive to back up and sync your files. Both Windows 10 and 11 enable OneDrive by default, whether you want to use it or not. But if you do want it, it's ready and waiting for you. Just make sure you sign in to set up your account and are syncing the necessary folders and files.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0f0e307c-3b87-43a8-afd9-29aacf8f7a2d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up OneDrive\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1016\" data-image-height=\"556\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERestore a file from the OneDrive Recycle Bin\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOkay, now let's say you've deleted a file and need it back. To find the deleted file, you've likely already searched your entire PC and have checked the Windows Recycle Bin but have come up empty. A \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-recover-deleted-files-in-windows-10-or-11\u002F\"\u003Ededicated recovery tool\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is always worth trying as they can locate files that no longer reside in the Windows Recycle Bin. But since you're syncing your files with OneDrive, let's give that a shot first.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7c6784d7-81aa-41d3-a576-6db60006380d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESelect the option for View Online. Sign into your OneDrive online storage page and select the option on the left for Recycle Bin.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Step 1: Click the OneDrive icon in the System Tray\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"09ae71e0-6c16-42e1-b071-913b13f98615\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Access the OneDrive Recycle Bin\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1242\" data-image-height=\"464\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d6d0358a-8373-43ad-bbb2-a812eb974b5e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EClick one of the four headers at the top -- Name, Original location, Date deleted, or Size. You can can then sort the list by any of the available criteria, including A-Z or Z-A for Name or Original location, older to newer or newer to older for Date deleted, and smaller to larger or larger to smaller for Size.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Step 2: Hunt for the deleted file\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6c512dce-cc40-431e-88b6-a9ba16740f84\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sort the files in the OneDrive Recycle Bin\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1162\" data-image-height=\"507\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, you can search for the file if you know the specific or approximate name. The search feature peeks into all your OneDrive folders, not just the Recycle Bin. Still, a search may be able to help you zero in on the right file. Type as much of the name as you can in the Search field at the top. You can use wildcards here as well. OneDrive then suggests potential matches. Select the file if you see it among the results or click the option for \u003Cstrong\u003EShow more results\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to see more possible matches.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ddf86557-5eda-4fbd-a845-b787f9f87513\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Check the results\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1279\" data-image-height=\"552\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ca6df584-205c-4177-977c-a0f14ab299c8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you find the file you need, select it and then click the Restore icon at the top to restore it to its original location.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Step 3: Restore found files\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9f4a259d-ee38-4c9c-9547-34d1dbdd2321\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Restore the file\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1257\" data-image-height=\"420\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOkay, let's look at the next conundrum. You've modified a file that's been synced to OneDrive and you don't like the changes you made, or perhaps a file has been corrupted by a technical glitch or infected with malware. Whatever the reason, you want to restore a previous version of it. For this feat, OneDrive offers two separate options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith Version History, you can restore previous versions of a single file going back several months. With the Restore your OneDrive feature, you can restore previous versions of all OneDrive files moving forward from a specific date.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a few conditions to Restore your OneDrive. First, you need to have a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"85b35e83-61df-484b-ab85-bd9e8dd4517f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Microsoft 365 account\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E; a regular OneDrive account won't do the trick. Second, the feature can only restore files up to 30 days in the past. Third, the feature will restore the entire OneDrive backup starting from a certain day, which may not be what you want.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you need to just restore a single file, use the Version History option. If you need to restore an entire group of files starting from a specific day and you have a Microsoft 365 account, try the Restore your OneDrive option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERestore a file through Version History\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt your OneDrive online page, select the file for which you want to view and restore a previous version. Right-click on the file and select Version History or select Version History at the top.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7082e176-1fe4-4329-bdbd-1ba3dbf89165\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select Version History\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1263\" data-image-height=\"533\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Version History page previews the current version of the file and then displays a list of dates for each previous version. Click a specific date to view that version of the file. If it's the version you need, click Restore and then Restore again to restore it to its original location. Click Download to open the file in a separate window. You can then save it to a different location (Figure 7).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0138ab9e-5417-4398-a299-e2546867e8ca\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Save the file\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1362\" data-image-height=\"748\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERestore your OneDrive\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo restore an entire OneDrive backup starting from a specific day, go to your main OneDrive page. Click the Settings icon at the top and select Options. At the next screen, click the option for Restore your OneDrive. You may be asked to verify your identity through your Microsoft authentication method. At the next screen, click the dropdown menu for Select a date and choose a timeframe for the version of the file you wish to recover -- Yesterday, One week ago, Three weeks ago, or a Custom date and time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo further narrow down the date, move the slider left or right to a specific date, anywhere from 1 day ago to 29 days ago. Click a file from the date at which you want to restore the entire backup. For example, clicking a file from five days ago will restore all OneDrive backups from that time through today. Confirm the potential action and then click Restore at the top. Your OneDrive backups are restored starting from the day you selected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"27a2abe3-c25d-4348-bffb-9da1ef616ba3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Restore OneDrive session\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1243\" data-image-height=\"901\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-06 14:54:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Looking for a file that's either been deleted or modified with unwanted changes? OneDrive may hold the answer.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"11c4f3f1-13be-48b0-8a52-922687429787",image:{id:"e2b38f36-c7ce-4765-ac9b-b9663b0f2b92",filename:"onedrive-best-cloud-storage-service.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-14 19:12:08",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Set up OneDrive",credits:c,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F14\u002Fe2b38f36-c7ce-4765-ac9b-b9663b0f2b92\u002Fonedrive-best-cloud-storage-service.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1910,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-restore-deleted-or-modified-files-with-the-help-of-onedrive",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to restore deleted or modified files with the help of OneDrive",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c9ead10c-3cdd-4549-8113-97eb6bc79f61\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft Edge with imported favorites\" data-image-filename=\"figure-hero-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1224\" data-image-height=\"623\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInternet Explorer has \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fjune-15-its-the-end-of-the-internet-explorer-era\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eofficially been put out to pasture as of June 15, 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Microsoft no longer supports the aged browser, and the program itself is due to be removed from Windows 10 in a future update. If you want to keep using a Microsoft browser, you'll need to make Microsoft Edge your permanent home.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"56171094-1e7b-4b42-86b1-ef2adb50bdc5\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F56171094-1e7b-4b42-86b1-ef2adb50bdc5\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIE's days have been numbered for a while now, so most people have likely already been using Edge, Chrome, or Firefox as their default browser. But at last count, Internet Explorer still had a small slice of the market, which means some individuals and organizations still have to switch to a different browser.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're eyeing the move from IE to Edge, you'll need to import bookmarks and other data. But Edge also offers an IE mode that lets you run sites and web-based apps that require Internet Explorer for compatibility reasons.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInternet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge will be \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.microsoft.com\u002Flifecycle\u002Ffaq\u002Finternet-explorer-microsoft-edge\"\u003Esupported through at least 2029\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, according to Microsoft. Ultimately, such sites and apps should be updated to work with more modern web standards. But at least you can see which ones still rely on Internet Explorer and continue using them in Edge. Now, let's see how to jump from IE to Edge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECopy bookmarks and other data\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour first step should be to copy your bookmarks, saved passwords, and other content from IE to Edge. You can kick this off from either browser. Doing it from Edge is usually quicker, but let's check out both options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EExport from Internet Explorer\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Internet Explorer. Click the icon in the upper right to View favorites, feed, and history (the one with an image of a star). Click the dropdown arrow next to Add to Favorites and select Import and export (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6b1d437e-547e-4d62-a2ac-5ab0fbb67119\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Internet Explorer's Import and export option\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1227\" data-image-height=\"565\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the Import\u002FExport Settings window, choose the option for Export to a file. The next window asks what items you want to export -- Favorites, Feeds, and Cookies. Check the box for Favorites but leave the other two unchecked as Edge is unable to import feeds or cookies from an HTML file. Click Next (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e42b238c-4c86-49d4-9df9-ca6b52e5777c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Export favorites from Internet Explorer\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1212\" data-image-height=\"707\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the next window, select the folder of favorites that you wish to export. Assuming you want to copy all of your bookmarks, select the Favorites folder. Click Next (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ca139b33-734b-4a2a-9f2e-2ed4d7599ca3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose folder to export\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1212\" data-image-height=\"707\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the window asking where you want to export your favorites, choose a location easily accessible to Edge. You can rename the file but change the extension from HTM to HTML. Click Export and then Finish (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"12eb2229-7803-4701-85eb-e2f0ab824b82\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose location and name for exported HTML file\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1212\" data-image-height=\"707\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Microsoft Edge. Click the Favorites icon in the upper right. Select the ellipsis icon and then click Import favorites (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c00e0ffe-321b-40d0-8cf9-27384e1f1e07\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Import favorites in Edge\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1234\" data-image-height=\"632\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the window for Import browser data, click the dropdown menu and change the selection to Favorites or Bookmarks HTML file. Click the button for Choose File and select the exported file from Internet Explorer. Click Open. A message then tells you that your data was brought over (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cdf2861d-2a26-4676-8508-98662735603c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select exported file\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1228\" data-image-height=\"653\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the Favorites icon to view your imported folders and favorites (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e592fd13-dfb5-4eb0-b017-f5988bc75a54\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"View imported folders and favorites\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1231\" data-image-height=\"656\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EImport in Microsoft Edge\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, you can import bookmarks and other content directly from IE to Edge without having to generate an HTML file. This option also lets you copy your browsing history, cookies, and other items.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Edge, click the Favorites icon, click the ellipsis icon, and then select Import Favorites. At the Import browser data window, make sure the dropdown box is set to Microsoft Internet Explorer. Uncheck any content you don't wish to retain. Click the Import button, and your favorites and other items are copied to Edge (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1caf251e-6b5d-4ff0-ad6c-477afa2abc5e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose items to import\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1232\" data-image-height=\"652\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's one possible hiccup in this process. Your favorites folders and bookmarks may be imported into the Favorites Bar location in Edge, which likely is not where you want them to reside. If that happens, you can easily fix it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Edge, click the Favorites icon, select the ellipsis icon, and then click Open Favorites page. Check the boxes for all the listed folders and individual bookmarks in the Favorites window. To quickly check them all, press Ctrl+A (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0d0bfbe5-2ee5-412a-9b22-664d39ba9f97\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select imported folders and favorites\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1232\" data-image-height=\"578\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, drag and drop the selected items onto the Other Favorites folder at the bottom of the left pane (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cda0a28d-0d22-4ddf-bb67-0a6bf6d87e49\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Move imported folders and favorites\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1234\" data-image-height=\"425\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the Favorites icon, and you'll see the imported bookmarks nestled under Other favorites (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5cefa8a2-3c9d-46e4-b296-22d868df3ff8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"View imported bookmarks under Other favorites\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1227\" data-image-height=\"655\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEnable IE mode in Edge\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith all your content migrated, your next step should be to make sure that sites and apps built for IE can run in Microsoft Edge. In Edge, click the ellipsis icon in the upper right and select Settings. At the Settings window, select the setting for Default browser. In the section for Internet Explorer compatibility, click the dropdown menu for Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode (IE mode) and change it to Allow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll be prompted to restart the browser. When Edge reopens, return to the same Settings screen. If you know of any specific sites requiring Internet Explorer that you want to open using Edge's IE mode, click the Add button and enter their addresses (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 12\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"eec333c4-86d6-43da-8f24-734367d6aad2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 12\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Enable IE mode in Edge\" data-image-filename=\"figure-12-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1226\" data-image-height=\"640\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESet Edge as the default browser\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, you'll probably want to make Edge the default browser in Windows. To do this in Windows 10, go to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > Apps > Default apps\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Click the current selection for Web browser and change it to Microsoft Edge (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 13\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"76d28653-1cf1-482d-8fa6-3aa2bb968ac6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 13\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set Edge as default browser\" data-image-filename=\"figure-13-how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"1108\" data-image-height=\"620\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-05 21:00:48",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"With Internet Explorer no longer supported by Microsoft, here's how to jump ship to Microsoft Edge.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"031d416f-bd48-4283-ae87-8eb52f29ea60",image:{id:"70099a11-0e9f-48fc-8894-ea0cd823a252",filename:"microsoft-edge.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-12-02 13:26:48",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F12\u002F02\u002F70099a11-0e9f-48fc-8894-ea0cd823a252\u002Fmicrosoft-edge.png",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-jump-to-microsoft-edge-from-internet-explorer",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to jump to Microsoft Edge from Internet Explorer",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4444c3cd-36d5-4b81-a1c2-b817f6383226\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoft-launcher-android.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"microsoft-launcher-android.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2019-05-24 13:07:00.000000\" data-image-width=\"1254\" data-image-height=\"836\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose of you who own an Android phone and use a Microsoft account or a business account to run Microsoft apps and services can bring the two worlds together with a custom launcher. Designed for Android, the Microsoft Launcher lets you tweak the design and layout of your phone's home screens to quickly access your Microsoft apps, documents, calendar, contacts, sticky notes, and more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond setting up Microsoft-related wallpaper, themes, and widgets, you can create specific gestures to tap and swipe your way to your favorite Microsoft content. Here's how it works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, grab your Android phone and download the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fplay.google.com\u002Fstore\u002Fapps\u002Fdetails?id=com.microsoft.launcher&hl=en\"\u003EMicrosoft Launcher app from Google Play\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Open the app and tap the Get Started button.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-link-and-sync-your-android-phone-with-windows-11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to link and sync your Android phone with Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first screen asks if you want Microsoft Launcher to access this device's location, a useful option if you wish to get the weather or find nearby businesses and other local information. If so, choose Precise or Approximate and select While using the app or Only this time. If not, select Don't allow. The app then asks for permission to access your photos and media (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0e921d83-c63c-46a3-bbbc-cded0d486141\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up the Microsoft Launcher\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, pick your phone's wallpaper, opting to choose daily wallpaper from Bing if you wish. You're then prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account or your business account. To get the full experience, set Microsoft Launcher as the default look (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7c1c008b-02d2-4544-b8ad-1aad4f65c197\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose your wallpaper and default launcher\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can now explore your phone via your new Microsoft Launcher integration. To see your feed with Microsoft-specific widgets, swipe to the right. By default, the widgets screen can show you your calendar appointments, to do list, sticky notes, apps, documents, screen time, and recent activities.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETap the Sign in button at the top to sign in with your Microsoft account or your work\u002Fschool account. If you have both types of accounts, you can sign in with each one separately. Any associated content from your Microsoft account or work\u002Fschool account or from Windows will now be synced with your phone (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"64284439-82e5-4583-9bea-3a7e93a47c38\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sign into your account\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESwipe down the feed to see the individual cards and widgets. Your calendar will show any upcoming appointments, your to-do list will display upcoming tasks, and the Sticky Notes card will display any sticky notes you've created in Windows. Frequently used apps and recent documents also appear as do screen time settings, recent activities, and Microsoft rewards. Tap a specific app, document, or another item to open it (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9450ffb3-10cd-4ad4-b69f-19eb15bb482d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"View your widgets\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"862\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can customize your feed. Swipe down to the bottom of the screen and tap the button for Edit this view. Uncheck any widgets you don't wish to see. Tap the Add widget button and then add any that you do want to see in your feed (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b6bbb35a-e42e-439e-a78b-ce562bf1afda\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Customize your widgets\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond adding widgets to the feed, you can add them anywhere else on the Home screen. Swipe to the left. Long press on any empty area and then tap the icon for Add widgets. Set up and position the new widget on any available spot (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5830a070-ee0f-45f4-8829-692c0801c54d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Add home screen widgets\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs your next step, you'll likely want to install any Microsoft apps that you plan to use on your phone. On your home screen, tap the Microsoft folder to open it, and then tap any apps that you want to install. Tap an installed app to use it, sign in with the associated account, and then select any document or other file you wish to view or edit (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9b0d9089-46eb-4b65-834b-8a46b9600b1f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Install Microsoft apps\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChange your wallpaper if you want something different. Long press on any empty area of the home screen and select the icon for Change wallpaper. Select a new image and then decide if you want it to appear on your Home screen, Lock screen, or both (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4e0e2725-347d-4308-ab2c-5f00b564debd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Change your wallpaper\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith your feed, widgets, and apps all set up, now it's time to customize other features and aspects of the Microsoft Launcher.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETap the Launcher app on the Home screen or long press on any empty area and select the icon for Launcher Settings. At the settings screen, the category for System Settings brings you to the Android settings for your phone. The category for Wallpaper lets you change the wallpaper.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETap the category for Themes to change the theme between dark and light, adjust the opacity, enable a blur effect, and use an accent color. Select the category for Home screen and you can tweak the size and layout of the Home screen icons as well as the appearance of folders (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4989bb6e-fcc6-4cca-ba45-05ab54d272ee\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Tweak your home screen icons and folders\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBack at the settings screen, choose the category for Dock to determine if and how you wish to display the Dock at the bottom of the screen. Next, select the App drawer category to tweak the options for the App drawer that appears when you swipe up on the screen (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"52424b08-72dd-46a0-8691-0d330e9938a6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Customize the dock and app drawer\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"862\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReturn to the settings screen and select the Gestures category. Here, you can create your own customized gestures to set what happens when you tap the home button, swipe up or down with one finger or two fingers, double tap, pinch in, or pinch out. The Feed category lets you determine what items appear on your feed. The Search category allows you to control the search options (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"51782606-ab48-4aa2-b624-b4fd40788c93\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Tweak your gestures, feed, and search options\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"862\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo back up your Microsoft Launcher customizations, select the Back up and restore category. You can then restore your tweaks from the backup. Finally, the category for Advanced settings lets you reset Launcher back to the default settings or even switch to a different Android launcher (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 12\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6b28d691-0a0c-4ddd-b220-39e4863ac53d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Customize advanced settings\" data-image-filename=\"figure-12-how-to-access-your-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"863\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-19 20:32:04",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"With the Microsoft Launcher nestled on your Android phone, you can easily set up and access all your favorite Microsoft content.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0b1f772d-1e07-4658-b65b-bc2bf98e3674",image:{id:"4444c3cd-36d5-4b81-a1c2-b817f6383226",filename:"microsoft-launcher-android.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2019-05-24 13:07:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2019\u002F05\u002F24\u002F4444c3cd-36d5-4b81-a1c2-b817f6383226\u002Fmicrosoft-launcher-android.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1254,height:836,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Mobile OS^Android",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-use-microsoft-launcher-to-access-microsoft-apps-and-services-on-your-android-phone",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to use Microsoft Launcher to access Microsoft apps and services on your Android phone",topic:{id:"b0fb3d1e-3e24-473d-9325-eaaf1980f7c7",slug:"android",name:"Android",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"b0fb3d1e-3e24-473d-9325-eaaf1980f7c7",slug:"android",name:"Android",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003ESize matters, at least when it comes to your photos and other pictures. Larger file sizes can mean better-looking photos, but an image that's bigger than it needs to be chews up disk space and can clog inboxes when you email it. That's why reducing the size of your photos and other images is often a worthy endeavor. And one tool that can aid you in this effort is Image Resizer, part of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fpowertoys\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft's free PowerToys utilities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith Image Resizer, you can change the size of an image anywhere from small to large to a custom set of dimensions. You can control the quality of the image and the level of compression when you shrink it. And you can specify a certain filename for the resized image. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's how it works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you don't already have PowerToys, download and install the PowerToysSetup.exe file from the program's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fmicrosoft\u002FPowerToys\u002Freleases\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. You can install and use it in Windows 10 or 11; it works the same in both versions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to use PowerToys FancyZones and why you should\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen the PowerToys Settings window by double-clicking its System Tray icon. Select the entry for Image Resizer and make sure it's toggled on. Image Resizer comes with several presets so that you can change the size without having to fuss with specific dimensions (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"df202c4f-4f2c-40ac-9ddf-a9b8ca63fa84\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: The Image Resizer window in PowerToys.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Image Resizer window in PowerToys\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1079\" data-image-height=\"680\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo see this tool in action, segue to File Explorer and right-click an image you wish to resize. Select the option for Resize pictures (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f8fb1094-3f86-42c8-8e0d-caaf1bd54aef\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Right-click an image in File Explorer to see the Resize pictures option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Resize pictures option\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1003\" data-image-height=\"625\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Image Resizer window pops up. Click the current preset and you can change it to Small, Medium, Large, or Phone size. Each preset displays the specific number of pixels for the height and width. Select the preset you want to use (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8f6f2ce1-d44f-44e6-a87b-77eb8ff9eacd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Choose one of the presets for a specific size\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Size presets\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1003\" data-image-height=\"625\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, select Custom. At the Custom window, you're able to choose the type (Fill, Fit, or Stretch), the width and the height, and the unit of measurement (Centimeter, Inch, Percent, or Pixel) (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"59a22f27-c0f6-4f4c-98f0-623bef5df986\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Choose Custom to set your own size.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Custom sizes\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1003\" data-image-height=\"625\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, review the different options. Check the box for \u003Cstrong\u003EMake pictures smaller but not larger\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E if you want to make sure you don't accidentally enlarge any photos. Check the box for \u003Cstrong\u003EIgnore the orientation of pictures\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to resize them regardless of the orientation. Check the box for \u003Cstrong\u003EResize the original pictures\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E if you wish to resize the original file and not create a copy. And check the box for \u003Cstrong\u003ERemove metadata that doesn't affect rendering\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to remove any non-essential metadata that can be discarded. When ready, click Resize (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"46426611-916b-43e6-aee7-d6138553a930\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Check the other options and then resize the image.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Image options\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1003\" data-image-height=\"625\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you opted not to resize the original picture, the resized copy contains the title of the preset (e.g., Small, Medium, Large, Custom) as part of the filename. If you chose to resize the original, the resized image keeps the initial name. Look for the resized file in File Explorer to see its new size. You should also open it to make sure that the quality of the image is still acceptable (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c8064c84-b353-4252-a148-9d2d88a0df41\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Check the resized file to see the new size.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"New file size\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1085\" data-image-height=\"625\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo configure Image Resizer beyond the default settings, return to its screen in Power Toys. To add a new preset size, click the button for \"Add a size.\" A new preset appears at the bottom of the list. Click the Pencil icon to edit it. Provide a name, select the fit type, and then enter the width and height. Click anywhere outside the editing window to finish. To remove any presets that you don't need, click the trash can icon for that entry (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"721f0c38-18cc-4ac9-b797-0e43aa4d9fe1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Create a new preset.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"New preset\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1079\" data-image-height=\"635\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScroll down to the Encoding section. The setting for the Fallback encoder determines what format the tool will use if the original image format can't be encoded to create a new image. The default is JPEG encoder, which means the resized image will be saved as a JPG file. This should suffice in most cases. But if you want to use a different format, click the dropdown menu and you can choose PNG, BMP, TIFF, WMP, or GIF.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe next three options set the level of compression used to shrink the file in different formats. For JPG, you can move the slider to the left or right depending on whether the resized files are still too large or the image quality is not being preserved. You can also enable or disable PNG interlacing and TIFF compression if you selected either format (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dcf3999b-453b-4927-ac3a-45ee3712faf1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Set the level of compression.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Compression level slider\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1079\" data-image-height=\"606\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, scroll down to the File section. Here, you can specify what filename format to use for the resized copy. By default, Image Resizer retains the original filename but adds the title of the preset you used. To switch to a different file naming scheme, click the Info circle next to this setting to see the different variables and incorporate the required one for the filename you want to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, the resized copy automatically takes on a timestamp from when it was created. If you prefer to use the timestamp of the original file, click the dropdown menu here and change the option to Original file timestamp (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f2dc2187-52b6-4eeb-bbb5-0ac98426bec5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Configure the filename scheme.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Filename options\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-shrink-your-images-with-powertoys-image-resizer.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1079\" data-image-height=\"606\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-08-16 22:15:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The handy PowerToys Image Resizer tool helps you shrink the size of big and bulky images.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0f564977-61d3-4f9b-bef7-3c3db6ecadac",image:{id:"7eb31b9b-756c-40d0-9ff1-cd8a55d92236",filename:"samsung-unpacked-aug-2022-galaxy-z-fold-4-facebook.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-10 14:04:30",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F10\u002F7eb31b9b-756c-40d0-9ff1-cd8a55d92236\u002Fsamsung-unpacked-aug-2022-galaxy-z-fold-4-facebook.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2408,height:1346,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-shrink-your-images-with-the-powertoys-image-resizer",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to shrink your images with the PowerToys Image Resizer",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"040c3ff1-4f98-4277-b43f-e4d930acbe4e",slug:"photo-video",name:"Photo & Video",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f7da76d7-f579-40d6-9a70-5ee4dd4d90bf\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Update security questions and answers for a local Windows account\" data-image-filename=\"top-figure-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account-copy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"1132\" data-image-height=\"627\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChoose to set up Windows 10 or 11 with a local account, and you're required to select three security questions to answer if you ever get locked out. Those questions include the typical ones, such as your first pet's name, the first name of your oldest cousin, and the name of your first school. But you can always change those questions and their answers if you don't like the initial ones. That option is readily accessible in Windows 10 but not in Windows 11. Here's how the process works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou first see the option for creating an account early in the Windows setup. Of course, Microsoft wants you to use a Microsoft account so the company doesn't make it easy to choose a local account instead. But it's doable and works the same in Windows 10 and 11. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIs your Windows license legal? Should you even care?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ECreate a local account\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAt the screen asking how you would like to set up Windows, choose the option Set up for personal use.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe next screen is where you would start veering toward a local account. In Windows 10, select Offline account. In Windows 11, select Sign in Options and then select Offline account.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAt the next screen, Microsoft tries its best to steer you away from a local account. But stay strong. In Windows 10, select Limited experience. In Windows 11, select Skip for now.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOkay, now you can finally enter the name you want to use for your local account. Devise a password and then confirm it.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EChoose your security questions and answers\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd that leads us to the security questions, which Microsoft requires you to set up at this point.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChoose your first security question and then type a response. Choose and answer your second question and then do the same for the third and final question.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8e502d5d-58e0-4f72-8be1-2656190d8448\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up your questions and answers for a local Windows account\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"1024\" data-image-height=\"764\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2. Finish the reset of the setup and then you're nestled into Windows with your local account.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ESwitch to a Local Account\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBesides choosing a local account from the get-go, you can switch to a local account if you're already using a Microsoft Account to sign into Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn Windows 10 or 11, go to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > Accounts > Your Info\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick the link to Sign in with a local account instead. Of course, you're asked if you're sure you want to switch to a local account. Click Next to confirm.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEnter your Microsoft account PIN. Create a password for your new local account. Sign out and then sign back in with your new local account.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOkay, now there are a couple of problems. Notice that when you switch to a local account, you're not prompted to create the security questions. That means you have to choose to do so on your own. Otherwise, if you need to reset your password, the only option available is to use a recovery drive, which you probably didn't set up either.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd even if you choose a local account during the initial Windows setup, what if you have second thoughts about your security questions at some point? Maybe you think that at least one of the answers may be too easy to guess. Or perhaps you want to change one of the questions. Can you update them? Let's try this in Windows 10 and then in Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EUpdate your questions and answers in Windows 10\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn Windows 10, go to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > Accounts > Sign-in options\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Click the option for Password. Then click Update your security questions.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"75e8df64-fede-4901-a73c-41859febfadd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Reset your security questions and answers in Windows 10\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"1131\" data-image-height=\"621\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2. At the window that pops up, type your local account password and click OK. You can now choose different questions and answers for each of the three items. When done, click Finish.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e905d460-290c-4364-9b6c-04ff2f13c01f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Update questions and answers\" data-image-alt-text=\"figure-3-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"1132\" data-image-height=\"627\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EUpdate your questions and answers in Windows 11\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, let's try the same thing in Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGo to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > Accounts > Sign-in options\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Click the option for Password. Uh-oh. There is no option for updating your security questions. For whatever reason, either forgetfulness or a lack of concern about local accounts, Microsoft neglected to equip Windows 11 with an obvious way to change your security questions and answers. But no worries. There is an unsupported though perfectly usable workaround.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHold down the Windows key and press R to trigger the Run dialog box. In the Open field, type the following string: \u003Cem\u003Ems-cxh:\u002F\u002Fsetsqsalocalonly\u003C\u002Fem\u003E.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e34eaa40-083a-4191-ae13-6cd7a2ea3311\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Reset questions and answers in Windows 11\" data-image-alt-text=\"figure-4-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"1135\" data-image-height=\"627\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3. You're then prompted to type your local account password. And you can now update each of the three security questions and answers. Type Finish when done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"86649ea4-8221-4f46-ab2f-f3ae57793f27\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Update questions and answers in Windows 11\" data-image-alt-text=\"figure-5-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022-06-01 18:05:44.000000\" data-image-width=\"1080\" data-image-height=\"628\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EAnswer the security questions to reset your password\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow let's say there comes a time when you forget your local Windows account password, either in Windows 10 or 11. You've tried a few different passwords, but no dice. You're stuck at the login screen with no way to get in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick the link for Reset Password. The window for your security questions pops up. Answer each of the three questions. Then click the right arrow next to the third answer.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f087b726-d34a-4bc7-bf13-8e716e976de6\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Answer security questions\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022-06-01 18:06:41.000000\" data-image-width=\"1089\" data-image-height=\"636\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2. Type and then retype a new local password, and click the right arrow. And you're in. But this time, try to remember your password.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"95a34d20-51bf-4ae6-a06f-d5322d4ad2ff\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Create new password\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022-06-01 18:07:18.000000\" data-image-width=\"1090\" data-image-height=\"481\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-06-02 20:49:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"A local Windows account requires you to set up three security questions. Here's how this works in Windows 10 and 11.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"42a01f07-3fe1-481a-b874-798e8f4da324",image:{id:"f087b726-d34a-4bc7-bf13-8e716e976de6",filename:"figure-6-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-01 18:06:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Update security questions and answers for a local Windows account",credits:c,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F01\u002Ff087b726-d34a-4bc7-bf13-8e716e976de6\u002Ffigure-6-how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1089,height:636,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-manage-your-security-questions-for-a-local-windows-account",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to manage your security questions for a local Windows account",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"43c21c39-0612-4738-8efe-069fe5bb3d52\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EFancyZones in use on my laptop.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Use predefined templates to easily position multiple windows on the screen\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-image-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones-copy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1400\" data-image-height=\"963\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I work with different apps in Windows, I often need to open and view several windows at the same time. The problem is that positioning and arranging multiple windows to appear on the screen together can be challenging. You may want to position a certain number of windows in a certain layout, but Windows itself won't let you easily do that, not even with the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-snap-your-windows-on-macos-and-windows\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebuilt-in Snap feature\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. One utility I've found handy for this purpose is FancyZones, one of many tools that come with Microsoft's free PowerToys.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0317e809-d10c-481b-9d72-7d010899bc42\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDesigned for Windows 10 and 11, FancyZones lets you apply and create layouts with a set arrangement of rows, columns, or overlapping windows. You can trigger a predefined layout and then precisely move each window into a specific zone, so all the windows coexist peacefully.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFancyZones lets you define the number of zones for each layout along with the padding and spacing so you can fully control how and where they appear on the screen. You can also create your own customized layouts. FancyZones works the same in Windows 10 and 11. Here's how.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is FancyZones?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEnable FancyZones\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you don't already have the latest version of PowerToys, download and install the PowerToysSetup.exe file from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fmicrosoft\u002FPowerToys\u002Freleases\u002Ftag\u002Fv0.58.0\"\u003Ethe program's GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOpen the PowerToys Settings window by double-clicking its System Tray icon.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESelect the entry for FancyZones and make sure its switch is turned on (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c960c27c-370c-49ad-b152-6823406154dd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Access FancyZones from the PowerToys Settings screen\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1107\" data-image-height=\"657\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESet up FancyZones\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the Editor section, click the entry for \u003Cstrong\u003EActivation Shortcut\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E if you wish to define a different shortcut to trigger the tool; otherwise, leave this as is. The next entry for \u003Cstrong\u003ELaunch editor on the display\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E determines where the layout editor appears when you launch it. Click its dropdown box if you wish to change the location (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f5357cc9-4393-4120-aa14-3d6308f2e961\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Configure FancyZones\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1107\" data-image-height=\"657\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ENow let's dive into the layout editor.\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick the entry for \u003Cstrong\u003ELaunch layout editor\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E or simply press the defined shortcut. The layout editor appears with the built-in templates on display. Each layout is designed for a specific number of windows and a specific format, such as rows or columns (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0f871a06-3b9c-4fcf-812d-b0e932a3262c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Launch the layout editor\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"713\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2. Reduce the size of the layout editor and then click each of the templates. Each template you select is displayed behind the layout editor, so you get a visual sense of how and where your open windows would appear. Notice that most of the layouts position each zone next to each other horizontally or vertically. The exception is the Focus layout, which applies overlapping windows (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0de4ed25-678f-4fcf-9f6e-d60845eab3a0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Preview each layout\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"729\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EUse FancyZones\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETo activate a specific template, double-click on it. For example, let's pick one of the templates with three zones.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClose or minimize the PowerToys Settings window if it's visible.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOpen or move to a window you wish to add to the layout.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPress the Shift key and drag the window by its title bar. You'll then see the layout you selected.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDrag the window into one of the zones, and it will fit into place.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDo the same for a second window and again for a third window. You'll now see all three windows snapped into each of the three zones (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"af717e6e-44fd-4931-ba8d-b77583d73b62\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Drag a window into each zone\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"731\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can manually reposition a specific window by dragging and dropping it by the title bar. But if you want to snap a window into a specific zone, remember to hold down the Shift key and then drag it to the right spot. Naturally, you can also minimize, maximize, or resize any window in a zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-snap-your-windows-on-macos-and-windows\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to snap your windows on MacOS and Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETweak a layout\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can tweak the different default layouts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPress the defined shortcut to open the layout editor.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick the pencil icon for a layout you want to modify.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFirst, you can increase or decrease the number of zones. You're adding or subtracting the number of rows for a row layout. You're adding or subtracting the number of columns for a column or grid layout. Click the field for \u003Cstrong\u003ENumber of zones\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and either click the up or down arrow or type a specific number.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETo increase or decrease the space, or padding, around each zone, click in the field for \u003Cstrong\u003ESpace around zones\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and click the up or down arrow or type a specific number. Turn off the switch completely to eliminate the spacing.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENext, the setting for \u003Cstrong\u003EHighlight distance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E determines the amount of space between two zones until they snap or merge together. Again, click in the field and adjust the number by clicking the up or down arrow or typing a specific number.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhen done, click Save to save the changes to the template (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a2899072-41f3-46d6-b135-efc2e449f1f2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Edit a layout\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1394\" data-image-height=\"755\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECreate a new layout\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you'd like to create a new layout from scratch, click the button for \u003Cstrong\u003ECreate new layout\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EType a name for your layout.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChoose Grid for stacked zones. Choose Canvas for overlapping zones.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick Create (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bf0c0869-329c-4e49-b531-6e4882808e08\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Create a new layout\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1387\" data-image-height=\"755\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5. The next screen is where you define the format of the new layout. By default, the layout starts with three columns.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E6. As you move your mouse along the layout, notice the horizontal blue bar that appears. If you click on the spot where that bar is positioned, you'll split the current zone into two separate zones. Hold down the Shift key, and the bar shifts from horizontal to vertical (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a3be6c91-ef07-47c4-a10a-d758b4811832\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Create new zones\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"731\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E7. If you wish to remove a zone, essentially merging it with a zone next to it, hold down your mouse button and select the two zones you wish to merge. After the two zones are highlighted in blue, click the \u003Cstrong\u003EMerge zones\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E button (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"35003d52-3de2-4208-b148-11c88b4f55a4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Merge zones\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"730\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8. Next, drag and drop the border between any two zones to resize them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E9. When done, click \u003Cstrong\u003ESave & apply\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d441f683-447d-49d4-83a5-f3c3900755cf\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Merge zones\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"729\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAdjust FancyZones settings\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond editing and creating templates, you can adjust certain settings for FancyZones.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReturn to the FancyZones screen in the PowerToys Settings window. Different sections organize the settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe section for Zones determines whether zones are activated when you hold the Shift key while dragging them and how the zones work across multiple monitors. The section for Windows controls how windows look and behave when you're using FancyZones. The section for Layouts allows you to use layout-specific shortcuts in the editor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, the section for Excluded apps lets you add any apps that you don't wish to include in FancyZones (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"61b9fbe0-02e4-4386-bb4f-24cf3684e2e6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Adjust FancyZones settings\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1129\" data-image-height=\"731\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-06-07 15:52:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"You should really be using FancyZones to supercharge your productivity on your desktop. Here's how to get started.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"4965735e-f466-4ec8-bb55-5112fd0c22ec",image:{id:"94218490-661c-4da6-be82-2360fd020501",filename:"figure-top-image-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones-copy.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-07 15:35:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Use predefined templates to easily position multiple windows on the screen",credits:"Lance Whitney",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F07\u002F94218490-661c-4da6-be82-2360fd020501\u002Ffigure-top-image-how-to-easily-position-multiple-apps-and-windows-with-powertoys-fancyzones-copy.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1400,height:963,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to use the free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EGot an old PC that feels old and tired, and you think it might be time to buy a new one? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are two things that you can do to turbo-boost your PC, and it both will cost you a lot less than buying a new PC. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"5fd41f04-2c7b-4009-95f6-7c5c247289d9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F5fd41f04-2c7b-4009-95f6-7c5c247289d9\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's take a look at how to breathe new life into your old PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1: Upgrade your RAM \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your PC has less than 4GB of RAM, upgrading this -- if it's possible -- up to 4GB is a worthy upgrade. RAM upgrades are quick and easy and also pretty cheap. If you already have 4GB, then the gains you get from pushing this higher have diminishing returns unless you are into high-end gaming or have specific workloads such as video rendering.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe sad fact is that an increasing number of devices can no longer accept RAM upgrades. Macs are the worst culprits, but Apple is not alone in making upgrades tricky.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot sure if your PC can take an upgrade? If it was made by one of the major OEMs, then a RAM vendor like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.crucial.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECrucial\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.kingston.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EKingston\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (or for Macs, you can check out \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Feshop.macsales.com\u002Fshop\u002Fmemory\u002FApple_MacBook_MacBook_Pro\u002FUpgrade\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOWC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ram\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best RAM: Top memory upgrades for your PC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2: Upgrade your storage from a hard drive to SSD \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile a RAM upgrade offers good bang-for-the-buck, if you already have 4GB of RAM, then the next best upgrade you can do is swap out your hard drive (HDD) for an SSD.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnsure if your PC can take an SSD upgrade SSD? My first port of call would be to check the user manual or a motherboard manual. If you don't have either of these, then I recommend an internet search because you're unlikely to be the first person wanting to do it!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStill not sure? Crucial has a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.crucial.com\u002Farticles\u002Fabout-ssd\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-to-an-ssd\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esystem scanner\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that can check your PC and tell you if an upgrade is possible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's what you'll need to do the upgrade:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAn SSD drive.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDepending on your PC, you may need a 5.25-inch or 3.5-inch tray to fit in a bay designed for a hard drive or optical drive (some SSD kits come with these parts). \t\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA #1 Phillips screwdriver.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA tool for carrying out your data migration (I use the free \t\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.partitionwizard.com\u002Ffree-partition-manager.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMiniTool PartitionWizard Free Edition\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which always performs flawlessly).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA basic understanding of how to fit and remove storage drives. \t\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA knowledge of how your BIOS works, specifically the setting which drive the system boots up from (there are so many different kinds that I can't help, so find do a web search for the manual for your motherboard). \t\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETip\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: A quick way to identify your motherboard is to fire up a Command Prompt and use the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line tool. To do that, type: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ewmic baseboard get product,manufacturer,version \t\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"31212dd4-c4e6-4cf1-b50c-67d77007142a\" data-size=\"full_width\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"The quickest, simplest way to speed up an old, tired PC\" data-image-filename=\"capture.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2017\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"227\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-much-ram-does-your-pc-or-mac-need\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow much RAM does your Windows PC need?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe upgrade process is pretty simple: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOpen up the PC and fit the new drive. \t\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFire up the Windows Disk Management tool (press \t\u003Cstrong\u003EWindows Key+R\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \ton your keyboard to launch the \u003Cstrong\u003ERun\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \tdialog box and then type \u003Cstrong\u003Ediskmgmt.msc\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \tand press \u003Cstrong\u003EEnter\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFind the new drive, which will be marked as \"unknown\" and \"Not initialized\" in the listing of drives at the bottom of the Disk Management window, and then right-click on where it says \"unknown\" and choose \t\u003Cstrong\u003EInitialize Disk\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and then follow the prompts.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDownload, install and then launch \t\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.partitionwizard.com\u002Ffree-partition-manager.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMiniTool Partition Wizard Free Edition\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick on \u003Cstrong\u003EMigrate OS to SSD\u002FHD\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E in the sidebar and follow the prompts.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"df20acbf-4b08-4560-9fee-9ed6769267a8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"MiniTool Partition Wizard 11\" data-image-filename=\"2019-08-09-20-35-01.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2019\u002F08\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"532\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhen the migration process is done -- this will take some time,  as much as a few hours -- then you will need to set the system BIOS to boot up off the new drive. \t\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYou can, if you want, remove the old drive, or keep it in the system, wipe it, and use it for storage. \t\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETip\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Swapping a drive should not cause any Windows activations or licensing problems. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith a Mac, the easiest way to upgrade your storage drive is to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.apple.com\u002Fen-us\u002FHT201250\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emake a Time Machine backup\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and then load that backup onto your new drive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EIs faster storage upgrade the best option? \t \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes. With a but.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHaving tried it with a range of SSDs drives (ranging in performance from basic to high-end) and across a range of systems (from dual-core to dual-socket), I'm pretty confident that anyone moving from a hard drive to an SSD drive will see serious performance gains. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is even the case when RAM is down at the 2GB levels (however, at this point, RAM does become quite a limiting factor, and if you're running Windows 10, then you ideally need more than 2GB to keep sane). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy advice is this -- if you have a basic PC (desktop or laptop) and it has 4GB of RAM and a hard drive installed, you're far better off spending your money on faster storage than you are on more RAM or a new CPU. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"73acd149-be52-4594-aa01-295e1bc9507b\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F73acd149-be52-4594-aa01-295e1bc9507b\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-04-29 12:36:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Is your PC or Mac feeling old and tired? Here are two ways to inject new life into an aging computer.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"62fdfab5-b09f-46da-9f41-447dd38933a6",image:{id:"2b9d89fa-ca00-42f4-9bc1-d78e772982fb",filename:"2017-05-1812-40-45.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2017-05-18 12:24:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"2017-05-1812-40-45.jpg",credits:b,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2017\u002F05\u002F18\u002F2b9d89fa-ca00-42f4-9bc1-d78e772982fb\u002F2017-05-1812-40-45.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:489,height:449,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Computing^PCs",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-speed-up-your-old-windows-10-pc-or-mac",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to speed up your old Windows 10 PC or Mac",topic:{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11601750-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"storage",name:"Storage",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ce49b550-f4fc-4a6a-a76f-296e666f10c0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Tweak the Taskbar with a third-party utility\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1041\" data-image-height=\"572\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike the Start menu, the Taskbar in Windows 11 has gotten a thumb's down from a lot of people, mostly because it's much less customizable than its Windows 10 counterpart. In Windows 10, you can move the Taskbar to any of the four sides of the screen, combine taskbar buttons, change the size of the buttons, and increase the height of the taskbar itself. None of those capabilities are available in Windows 11, at least not in the current version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want a more robust and user-friendly Taskbar in Windows 11, there are several changes you can make in the OS itself. If those don't do the trick, you may want to try a third-party utility to further enhance the Taskbar. Let's look at your options. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ETweak the Taskbar\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, you should review the different ways to modify the Taskbar to make it look and work according to your preferences. Right-click on any empty area of the Taskbar and select Taskbar settings. Here, you can remove icons for certain programs that you never use so they don't waste space. These include Search, Task View, Widgets, and Chat. Turn off the switch for the ones you don't want to see (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f80f436b-2d63-4e99-a72a-66b227b98939\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Turn Taskbar icons on or off\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1177\" data-image-height=\"479\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScroll down further. The next section lets you add a menu for a pen or stylus, a Touch keyboard, and a virtual touchpad to the Taskbar. If you're using a hybrid touchscreen PC without a mouse or keyboard, then you might want to enable these features. Otherwise, leave them turned off (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"857724c8-b83f-417f-a8b0-a499fed100ea\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Enable options for touchscreen hybrid device\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1173\" data-image-height=\"406\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext on the list is the System Tray, which appears at the right end of the Taskbar. Normally, you have to click the up arrow in the System Tray to view and access the icons for all your startup programs and other features. But if there are certain ones you'd like to see directly, turn on their switches. For instance, I like to see the icon for OneDrive directly in the System Tray so I can check the file syncing and other elements of the program (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"66003b30-dc6f-4a2c-9980-9d011e6e9e31\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Control the system tray\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1202\" data-image-height=\"537\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can control Taskbar behaviors. I like to change the alignment to the left and automatically hide the Taskbar. Those are the two most important settings for me, though I leave the other ones turned on as well (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a5e53424-3820-4a9a-b4c5-d8a4f1e142f1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Change the alignment and hide the Taskbar\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1191\" data-image-height=\"539\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EPin icons to the Taskbar\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can't currently drag and drop icons onto the Windows 11 Taskbar as you can in Windows 10. But you can pin your favorite programs to the Taskbar. Click the Start button. In the Pinned apps section, find the program you want to add to the Taskbar, right-click it, and select Pin to taskbar. In the All Apps list, right-click the program, go to More, and then select Pin to taskbar. You can then drag and drop icons around the Taskbar to put them in your preferred order (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5d618ab5-b270-4623-b755-a6e284e5a637\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Pin icons to the Taskbar\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1102\" data-image-height=\"726\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EChange the Taskbar color and appearance\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut wait, there's more you can do with the Taskbar, specifically regarding its appearance. Go to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > Personalization > Colors\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. To make the Taskbar translucent against your current wallpaper background, turn on the switch for Transparency effects (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"92c5389c-1ea4-4d08-a86b-4efc6fb04a59\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Make the Taskbar translucent\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1132\" data-image-height=\"689\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can add an accent color to the Start menu and Taskbar. Click the dropdown menu for Accent color and change it to manual. Then select your preferred accent color from the palette (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9899bb8c-7916-4c5c-9c09-9fb93d7437dd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose an accent color\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1073\" data-image-height=\"687\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo paint just the Start menu, Taskbar, and certain elements dark, click the dropdown menu for \u003Cstrong\u003EChoose your mode\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and change it to Custom. Click the dropdown menu for \u003Cstrong\u003EChoose your default Windows mode\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and set it to Dark. Leave the setting for \u003Cstrong\u003EChoose your default app mode\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to Light (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4fbc31e4-1d58-4200-84d4-85847d949c45\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Switch to dark mode\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1102\" data-image-height=\"690\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EThird-party tweaks\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome Registry hacks claim to change certain elements of the Taskbar, such as the position and height. But they don't always work reliably or consistently, especially since Microsoft keeps altering Windows 11 to prevent certain tweaks. If you'd like to perform more radical surgery on the Taskbar beyond its icons and appearance, your best bet is to turn to a third-party utility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can alter certain aspects of the Taskbar with two Start Menu replacement programs, namely Start11 and StartAllBack, both of which I wrote about in my column on \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu\u002F\"\u003EHow to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with a third-party app\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut another program I especially like is ExplorerPatcher, which offers several handy ways to improve the Taskbar. To download this free utility, browse to its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fvalinet\u002FExplorerPatcher\"\u003EGitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and click the link for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fvalinet\u002FExplorerPatcher\u002Freleases\u002Flatest\u002Fdownload\u002Fep_setup.exe\"\u003EDownload the latest version of the setup program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. After installation, open the program from the All Apps menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first option in ExplorerPatcher's Properties menu is for Taskbar. Here, you can change the Taskbar style to Windows 10, choose how and when to combine Taskbar buttons, modify the size of Taskbar buttons, and move the Taskbar to any side of the screen. After making your modifications, click the link for Restart File Explorer, and the changes go into effect (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6ae48e5b-9c39-4e0f-8451-5a99da10723b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Tweak the Taskbar with a third-party utility\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1089\" data-image-height=\"634\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-06-28 20:13:57",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Not happy with the Windows 11 Taskbar? You can change the look, layout, and other elements in Windows and through a third-party utility.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"518adc21-f709-456a-8caf-a7bb3748db9b",image:{id:"ce49b550-f4fc-4a6a-a76f-296e666f10c0",filename:"figure-top-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-27 13:54:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F27\u002Fce49b550-f4fc-4a6a-a76f-296e666f10c0\u002Ffigure-top-how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1041,height:572,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-improve-and-enhance-the-windows-11-taskbar",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to improve and enhance the Windows 11 Taskbar",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"aa6b68a0-6821-4508-ad08-1495fdc63720\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Shutterstock \u002F Prostock-studio\" data-image-alt-text=\"Woman typing on laptop. \" data-image-filename=\"shutterstock-1660017136.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"6720\" data-image-height=\"4320\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou have a host of files on your computer that you want to rename all in one shot, and all according to a certain pattern. Windows does let you rename multiple files by applying the same name followed by sequential numbers. But to add more punch to your file renaming, Microsoft offers a PowerToys tool called PowerRename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccessible from the right-click context menu in File Explorer, the PowerRename command can rename files through the use of variables. Simply select the files you wish to rename, trigger the command, and then choose the filename string and variables that you want to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you just need to add sequential numbers to a group of files, that's already easy enough to do directly in Windows. Open File Explorer, select the files you want to rename, and then press F2. The last file in the list is selected. Type the name you wish to use and press Enter. All the files you selected are given the same name with successive numbers in parentheses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut PowerRename can do that and more. If you don't already have PowerToys on your PC, download and install the PowerToysSetup.exe file from the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fmicrosoft\u002FPowerToys\u002Freleases\u002F\"\u003Eprogram's GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. PowerToys and its programs work the same in both Windows 10 and 11. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to use the free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to rename multiple files in Windows with PowerRename\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9871633c-fee1-412c-8294-a0a18037092e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOpen the PowerToys Settings window by double-clicking its System Tray icon. Select the entry for PowerRename. Turn on the switch for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EEnable PowerRename\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;if it's off.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Enable PowerRename\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b9b8e8f7-0924-446a-85fd-01f5426238b7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"PowerToys Setting window.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1207\" data-image-height=\"565\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0c99fb32-1489-49dd-9ab5-30d5a44bdcf3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, click the dropdown menu for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EShow PowerRename in\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;and set it to&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDefault and extended context menu\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. This ensures that the command is available in the context menu in Windows 10 and both of the context menus in Windows 11. Leave the box for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EHide icon in context menu\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;unchecked.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Click Show PowerRename and set it to Default and extended context menu\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3d939316-e872-4e07-b985-8f1ad9e89e41\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Show PowerRename in the context menus of File Explorer.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1207\" data-image-height=\"501\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"38044ac4-e000-4896-b46c-8d633b49c5ea\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETo receive suggestions for names when searching for and replacing the existing filenames, make sure the switch is turned on for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EEnable auto-complete for the search and replace fields\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. To control the number of suggestions you can receive when searching for and replacing filenames, set the number for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMaximum number of items\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. If unsure, leave the default value at 10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo see the last strings used for a search and replace, turn on the switch for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EShow recently used strings\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Finally, if you think you'll need more than just the regular expressions used for search and replace, turn on the switch for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EUse Boost library\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Otherwise, leave this off; you can always turn it on if and when necessary.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Turn on options for searching and replacing filenames\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f9f06645-434f-4b5c-8f01-a3406bc4b1e7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EFinishing configuring PowerRename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Options to turn on in PowerRename.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1207\" data-image-height=\"816\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0ca57c92-7603-4c0b-94d1-44a644d9bb4c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENow that you've checked the settings and changed any from their defaults, it's time to take PowerRename for a spin. Open File Explorer. Select several files whose names you want to change. Photos imported from your phone are a good option since they're given generic designations that you'll likely want to switch to more meaningful names. Right-click anywhere on the selection and select PowerRename from the context menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the right pane, confirm the files you wish to rename and make sure each one is checked.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Open File Explorer and select files you want to change \" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c5cde22f-6111-485e-ad7f-21f89a7ff43a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESelect PowerRename from the context menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"PowerRename option in the context menu.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1293\" data-image-height=\"741\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"489405c8-0031-4596-8f57-3592f0486f77\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, it's time to set up your search and replace strings. For this one, I'm going to use an actual example. My wife and I recently took a trip to London where I took hundreds of photos. At the end of the trip, I had a bunch of photos with generic names that I wished to rename. For the first part of this process, I wanted to rename each one&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ETrip to London\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;but then add a sequential number at the end of each filename, starting with one and going from there.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe files initially all had names of IMG_ followed by a four-digit number and then JPG as the extension, e.g., IMG_1001, IMG_1002, etc. In the Search field, I typed&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003EIMG_\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. In PowerRename, the . symbol is used as a variable representing a single character. So I then typed four dots after the IMG_ as in&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003EIMG_....\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;and then nothing for the extension as I wanted to leave JPG as is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Set up your search and replace strings\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8177059c-2b04-4153-9f89-465c1bc6390f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ECreate the search string.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"IMG and JPG files in PowerRename.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1380\" data-image-height=\"808\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2e171ada-efbb-4f09-944f-3b5140dbd58c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn the Replace field, I typed&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ETrip to London\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. I then clicked the&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EEnumerate Items\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;button as that tells PowerRename to add a sequential number in parentheses to the filename, as in Trip to London (1), Trip to London (2), and so on. Clicking Apply then performs the rename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"6. Select Enumerate Items\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"eb15afb7-a1fa-4228-a524-576c2e21be59\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ECreate the replace string.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"IMG and JPG files in PowerRename.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1380\" data-image-height=\"808\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f4104990-4d05-46e0-9e2c-c22bea5c3e21\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe true strength of PowerRename lies in its support for variables. For the second part of this process, I wanted to indicate the date each photo was taken. This required using variables, specifically a $ followed by the string for the type of date.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith PowerRename variables, the month is represented by the letter M, the date by the letter D, and the year by the letter Y. The number of times you use the letter determines the exact format. In this case, I wanted to use the two-digit value for the month, the two-digit value for the date, and the four-digit value for the year. So, I typed the replace string as&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ETrip to London-$MM-$DD-$YYYY\u003C\u002Fem\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"7. Indicate the date each photo was taken\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7308aaf0-1570-43a0-8959-17cb19971a76\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EFinish the replace string.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"IMG and JPG files in PowerRename with renamed files.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-rename-files-in-windows-with-powerrename.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1532\" data-image-height=\"808\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7c49ec04-e314-43b4-bc09-cb7a90d8a317\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs a helping hand, PowerRename previews the new names in the Renamed column so you can see whether your syntax is correct. If all looks good, click the Apply button, and the files are renamed. The new names appear in the Original column to indicate that the files have been renamed. Ultimately, my photos had their new names, the full date, and the sequential numbers. Mission accomplished.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"8. Click Apply if all looks good\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you need more powerful and flexible file renaming, then you might prefer a third-party utility. I've used \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sherrodcomputers.com\u002Fproducts_filerenamer.cfm\"\u003ESherrod Computer's File Renamer program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which comes in both free and paid flavors, and provides a variety of renaming options. But if your file renaming needs are relatively basic, PowerRename is a useful and convenient tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-19 16:46:59",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"With the free PowerRename tool, you can rename a bunch of files in one single move based on a specific naming scheme.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"8e53b841-a6dd-4c2a-a826-393037543f39",image:{id:"aa6b68a0-6821-4508-ad08-1495fdc63720",filename:"shutterstock-1660017136.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-09-10 10:03:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F09\u002F10\u002Faa6b68a0-6821-4508-ad08-1495fdc63720\u002Fshutterstock-1660017136.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:6720,height:4320,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-rename-multiple-files-in-windows-with-powerrename",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to rename multiple files in Windows with PowerRename",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"03eb7b21-cccd-44c2-b4c8-78b22ddd49ed\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash\" data-image-alt-text=\"brooke-cagle-609880-unsplash.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"brooke-cagle-609880-unsplash.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2018\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"5208\" data-image-height=\"3472\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESharing a computer with multiple people can be challenging, especially when it comes to protecting that PC against security risks. Whether you use a shared PC at home, in a home office, or in a small business, you want to ensure that everyone who uses that machine follows proper security guidelines, and that especially applies to passwords.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECreating a strong and complex password is one of the best ways to protect your account and your PC from any type of compromise or other security threat. You can certainly make sure that your own password is hard to crack, but how can you coax other people who use the same PC to do likewise?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELarge companies and enterprises typically set up domains and rely on Group Policy to set password policies. But your average home or even small office isn't likely to go through the trouble of creating and managing domains. No problem. You can still protect your shared computer by using the local security policy in Windows. Available in Windows 10 and 11, the local security policy helps you control a variety of security options for all users of the PC, including password length and complexity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of the settings offered by the local security policy are geared toward domain-based computers. But if you simply want to control a single computer, you can ignore the network-specific settings and focus on the ones for passwords. Using the policy this way will help you better protect a PC shared in a home, a home office, or a small business office. Let's see how this works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to set local security policy in Windows\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe local security policy is accessible from Windows 10 and 11 and works the same in both versions. You can open or access the local security policy using a few different methods. But the quickest way is through the Search tool. Click the Search field or icon, type secpol.msc, and then press Enter. The local security policy window pops up (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2164eed6-c282-469a-a924-86c51095922f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"The local security policy in Windows\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-require-strong-and-complex-passwords-on-a-shared-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"1152\" data-image-height=\"641\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESet minimum password length\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, you can ensure that anyone who has an account on this computer uses a password of a certain length. Click the right arrow for Account Policies and then select Password Policy. Among the eight options here, double-click the one for Minimum Password Length.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the Explain tab to see the details of this setting. By default, the minimum length can be as many as 14 characters. Switch back to the Local Security Setting Tab and enter a number up to 14 to specify the minimum length for a password. Click OK when done (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1f423992-3d36-4577-8d34-efa855107177\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set the minimum password length\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-require-strong-and-complex-passwords-on-a-shared-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"1139\" data-image-height=\"543\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESet password complexity\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore important than password length is complexity, which means requiring users of this shared PC to use passwords with uppercase and lowercase characters, numbers, and non-alphanumeric characters. Double-click the option for Password must meet complexity requirements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the Explain tab to see the requirements for this one. If this policy is enabled, the password can't contain the user's account name and must be at least six characters long. It also must contain characters from any three of the following categories: Uppercase characters, lowercase characters, any number 0 through 9, and non-alphanumeric characters such as ! or #. Go back to the Local Security Setting tab and click the button for Enabled. Click OK (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9694c42b-2170-432f-9036-f8ea9f34243f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Enable password complexity\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-require-strong-and-complex-passwords-on-a-shared-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"1140\" data-image-height=\"540\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERequire password changes\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can make sure that people must change their passwords periodically. Double-click the option for Maximum Password Age. Select the Explain tab to learn how this setting works. Return to the Local Security Setting tab and enter a number to determine how many days someone can use a password before it expires. Depending on your environment, 90 days is typically a good timeframe, so that people have to change their passwords every three months. Click OK (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2de44361-ce30-4bed-903e-2fca77144a7d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set the number of days until a password expires\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-require-strong-and-complex-passwords-on-a-shared-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"1141\" data-image-height=\"542\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEnforce password history\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFaced with the challenge of changing their passwords periodically, many people will simply recycle older passwords. You can limit this tendency by enforcing a password history. Click the option for Enforce password history. Click the Explain tab to see how this plays out. At the Local Security Setting screen, enter a number between 0 and 24, with 0 meaning that no password will be remembered and 24 meaning that the past two dozen passwords will be remembered and therefore unable to be reused. Click OK (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"77abaf76-3177-4c3c-b98d-273122c5815e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Enforce a password history\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-require-strong-and-complex-passwords-on-a-shared-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"1143\" data-image-height=\"559\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESet lockout policy\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can protect your PC's accounts from compromise by locking them out if the wrong password is entered too many times. Select the setting for Account Lockout Policy and double-click the option for Account lockout threshold.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the Explain tab to read the details on this one. Return to the Local Security Setting screen and enter a number between 0 and 999. The number will determine how many times an incorrect password can be entered before the account is locked out. A locked out account then must be reset by an administrator account on that PC. Click OK.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBased on the number you choose, you may see suggestions for the other two options: Account lockout duration and Reset account lockout counter. These two options determine how long the account will be locked out following the specified number of wrong password attempts. Click OK to accept the suggested settings (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8ad1f2ec-7ea6-443b-87df-ae76b36ca3d4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set lockout policy\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-require-strong-and-complex-passwords-on-a-shared-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"1140\" data-image-height=\"558\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow strict should you make the password and lockout requirements on your shared PC? That depends on the location and the people using it. For a home PC used by family members, you may want to keep the settings less restrictive. But for a business PC used by employees, you might tighten the requirements. Of course, you can always adjust the settings if they turn out to be too loose or too tight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-25 18:05:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"You can make sure that everyone who uses a shared Windows PC at your home or business creates a password that can't easily be cracked.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"8b96a804-156c-4e95-9819-cafe50e26366",image:{id:"03eb7b21-cccd-44c2-b4c8-78b22ddd49ed",filename:"brooke-cagle-609880-unsplash.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2018-06-21 05:17:47",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EIf you have to share a computer with a friend, guest, or sibling, one way to make sure your browsing is private is to turn on incognito mode.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2018\u002F06\u002F21\u002F03eb7b21-cccd-44c2-b4c8-78b22ddd49ed\u002Fbrooke-cagle-609880-unsplash.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:5208,height:3472,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-require-strong-passwords-on-your-shared-windows-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to require strong passwords on your shared Windows PC",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EIf you write about computers or software, sooner or later, you'll need to take a screenshot (an image of all or part of your computer screen). I take a lot of screenshots. In fact, this article has eight of them. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're running on Windows -- whether \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or Windows 10 -- there's a very nice utility that comes with the operating system that does a great job. It's called Snipping Tool, and it just works. In this article, I'm going to show you the Windows 11 version, which adds a few minor features over the older Windows 10 version. But it doesn't matter which OS you call home. Snipping Tool works pretty much the same. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome Windows installs have Snipping Tool in the application menu, but if not, just type \"snip\" into the search bar, and the Snipping Tool utility will come up. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne you launch Snipping Tool from your app menu, right-click on the icon and select Pin to Taskbar. That will permanently add it to your taskbar, which you'll find helpful over time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"18a7e20b-c927-4537-8bc9-1dc66133beb1\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping tool in tool bar\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00008.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"327\" data-image-height=\"94\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunching the app produces this little window (below). As you can see, there's a drop-down menu with a bunch of options. I prefer \u003Cstrong\u003ERectangle Mode\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E, which allows you to draw a box around what you want to capture. You can also capture a window, the whole screen, or even freeform draw a border. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"813e2630-70b6-4505-ac7f-9bb80ace3e72\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping Tool mode menu\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00007.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"481\" data-image-height=\"258\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you launch the Snipping Tool on Windows 10, you'll get a slightly different window. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"81928d82-0596-4ebc-9efe-04d4f6f7f831\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping tool warning message\" data-image-filename=\"pollywin-2022-05-17-15-31-16.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"430\" data-image-height=\"308\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote the suggestion to try Snip & Sketch. I don't recommend Snip & Sketch. The Snipping Tool does a great job, and as the screenshot above this one shows, Windows 11 no longer promotes moving to Snip & Sketch. Worse, Snip & Sketch has some \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002Fdetail\u002Fsnip-sketch\u002F9MZ95KL8MR0L?hl=en-us&gl=US\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epretty sketchy reviews\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on the Windows Store. You're welcome to get it, but I just don't see much of an upside to doing so.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most important features of a screenshot tool is a \u003Cstrong\u003Ecapture delay\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. That allows you to move your mouse and take actions without the capture tool in the way. Most often, I capture with no delay. But when I use a delay, I always choose ten seconds. That gives me enough time to get the screen set the way I want it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cc229979-22c8-4365-8d2e-8df0ea8aff5b\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping Tool delay menu.\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00006.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"444\" data-image-height=\"218\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThen, you just hit the \u003Cstrong\u003ENew\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E button. You'll be given the opportunity to choose your capture area. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENOTE:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E You can also press \u003Cstrong\u003EWindows+Shift+S\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to get this same capture area.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f140c32c-dc60-40f3-a40d-0e1733dcfdec\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping Tool in action\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00003.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"772\" data-image-height=\"430\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce you capture your image, you'll be popped into a little image editing tool. It's not much, but it will allow you to draw circles or highlights around your image, as well as crop it and save it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9643bdeb-d4f3-46e5-9920-59e57093966c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping tool notification options\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00002.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"842\" data-image-height=\"516\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond the basic capture, there are some other settings. Just \u003Cstrong\u003Etap the three dots\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to see the additional options menu. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"25a6742e-8005-41f9-a1e7-5261bdf9957a\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Snipping Tool settings menu\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00005.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"426\" data-image-height=\"216\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThen tap \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"493df56b-fc33-4440-b89c-adc0581c5841\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"Other Snipping Tool settings.\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00004.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"406\" data-image-height=\"543\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI like to keep \u003Cstrong\u003EAdd Copy to Clipboard\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E on because then it's just as easy to paste my capture as it would be to save it off as a file. That's great for quick clips that I want to drop right into an email message or Slack chat. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might also want to turn on \u003Cstrong\u003ESave Snips\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E, which asks if you want to save snips before you close the editor. I keep it off because I do most of my work with the clipboard, pasting it into the aforementioned email or Slack or directly into Photoshop for editing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last two options are also nice. \u003Cstrong\u003EMultiple windows\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E mean that the snipping tool doesn't reuse one window. That way, you can have a bunch of snaps at once floating on your screen. I find that distracting, so for me, it's off. And finally, there's \u003Cstrong\u003ESnip outline\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. I like to add my own outline, but this is a helpful option if you quickly want to make your snip stand out from the rest of the page. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Beyond the basics \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a lot of screenshot tools available for Windows. I find the basic Snipping Tool to be quite wieldy (and yes, that's a word). But, if you want to go for the Cadillac of Windows snipping tools, look no farther than \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"73873b92-963f-4d58-b723-0a9ae2b19248\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techsmith.com\u002Fscreen-capture.html\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"the $63 SnagIt\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. This tool has been updated constantly since it debuted back in 1990. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, yeah, SnagIt has been on the market and continuously improved and updated for a very long time. I'm not going to go into all the features of SnagIt, but this graphic should give you a pretty good idea. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2d7b59bc-09bf-4a95-a75c-753b0eca1fcc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"screenshot-00001.png\" data-image-filename=\"screenshot-00001.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"2419\" data-image-height=\"2407\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow you know. If you want a simple, easy, free screenshot tool, use Snipping Tool. If you want everything and the kitchen sink, consider \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4cb8e3d4-f0e6-4851-bcdb-897396d9fb4f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techsmith.com\u002Fscreen-capture.html\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"SnagIt\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat kinds of screenshots do you capture? What's your favorite capture tool? What do you use for image editing once you capture your pixels? Let us know in the comments below. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-05-18 21:15:54",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"We show you how to capture images on Windows with a free tool in this quick how-to. We'll also point you to a capture tool that costs a bit more but does just about everything you could possibly want.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"7878627f-5832-497e-a6c4-9590f8d1c2b3",image:{id:"7fe3fab7-1723-4cce-be60-c18684d82e13",filename:"shutterstock-2013850121.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-10-17 23:29:05",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"screenshot-00008.jpg",credits:"dgtl.escapism shutterstcl",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F17\u002F7fe3fab7-1723-4cce-be60-c18684d82e13\u002Fshutterstock-2013850121.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-screenshot-on-windows",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to take a screenshot on Windows",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"35d364f3-14b0-40ac-aa20-c5d78f1c094c\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Apple\" data-image-alt-text=\"A person running MacOS Ventura on a laptop\" data-image-filename=\"apple-wwdc22-macos-ventura-continuity-camera-lifestyle-220606.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"1774\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'd like to think that, after all this time, we've moved past the petty disputes about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-laptop-should-i-buy-windows-or-macos-plus-10-more-things-to-consider\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewhether Macs are better than PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and vice versa. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd yet, there's one incredibly useful feature that Windows has had forever, that's gone inexplicably missing from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-macos-monterey-12-0-1-review-productivity-firmly-back-on-the-menu\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. If you use a Mac, but have even the slightest Windows muscle memory, you'll try to use this feature, recall that Apple, in its infinite wisdom, decided to skip it, and then slam your mouse down in frustration. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut not anymore, courtesy of Mac developer Coral Wu. And all it costs is two bucks. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-ways-macos-ventura-could-upgrade-your-worklife-hands-on-impressions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3 ways MacOS Ventura could upgrade your work life: Hands-on impressions\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOK, so what is this feature? Simple: Right-click to create a new file at your current location in the file tree. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImagine you're on Windows, and you've navigated deep down into a file tree. You want to create a new Word document in that folder. All you do is right-click and choose New from the context menu. A submenu opens with a whole bunch of file types. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c714135a-ce12-4063-abb9-f1eead9111ab\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe New context menu in Windows 11. This screenshot doesn't have any applications shown because it's a test machine. But if you had applications installed, they'd be in that wonderful menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"David Gewirtz\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 11 New menu\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-34-232x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"2366\" data-image-height=\"1618\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo if you want to plant a Word document way, way deep, just right-click, select New->Microsoft Word document, and a fresh file will be placed exactly where you want it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut if you're a Mac user, you have to create the new document from within your application, then -- again, from within the application -- dig down to where you want to save it. There's no New option on the context menu. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a6869220-0002-427b-a7bf-369bccedd3f5\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EYes, you can create a New folder. Big whoop. Do you see a way to add a text file here? Or a Photoshop document? Or even a Word doc? No. No you don't. And why not?&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"David Gewirtz\" data-image-alt-text=\"Context menu\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-44-172x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"1338\" data-image-height=\"1106\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis has resulted in all sorts of wasteful workarounds. There's the \"Save it to the desktop and I'll get to it someday\" workaround. There's the \"Open the save dialog in the app and try to drag the destination folder from the Finder into that dialog\" workaround. There's even the \"Create a bunch of empty files and drag them where you'll need them\" workaround. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a computer and an OS that eschew ugly, the whole process is ugly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EIntroducing New File Menu\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInto this wasteland cometh a savior, the aforementioned developer. Wu has created a Finder extension called \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.apple.com\u002Fus\u002Fapp\u002Fnew-file-menu\u002Fid1064959555?mt=12\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENew File Menu\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which adds... wait for it... a New File menu to the Finder. Behold: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9f69480c-f5f7-4264-ac36-3198ef3b1c17\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOoh. Ah. I hear trumpets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"David Gewirtz\" data-image-alt-text=\"New File Menu options\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-45-312x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"1338\" data-image-height=\"1106\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo set it up, you have to install it, then navigate to System Preferences>Extensions and turn on the New File Menu extension. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6b4a0240-16b5-46fc-8d38-a0e5de086388\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMake sure to enable the System Preference for this extension.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"David Gewirtz\" data-image-alt-text=\"Extensions management page\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-40-392x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"1455\" data-image-height=\"1163\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom within the application, you can customize which items are added to the New File menu. If an item isn't on the developer's prepared list, you can add your own. I added Photoshop, which not only creates a new PSD file in my folder of choice, it actually moves in a template file, already sized appropriately for my ZDNet article images, because I was able to customize it to my personal needs. So very helpful! \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"57d41529-0df8-42f9-8497-58f48c80e1b0\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EI added Photoshop to this list, and it's been very helpful.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"David Gewirtz\" data-image-alt-text=\"New File Menu preferences\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-59-362x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"1522\" data-image-height=\"1106\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is a free version of New File Menu that allows you to add just one file type. But let's get real. At $2, with Family Sharing, you can put New File Menu on any computer, including any of your family members' computers. It's a no-brainer. Send the developer your two dollars. It's an incredibly worthwhile expense. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDo you have a favorite Mac app? Is there something that removes annoyance and improves your productivity? Let us know in the comments below. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-08-17 16:48:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"How could Apple have missed this? Fortunately, a developer has provided a Finder extension to right this wrong.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"3ab90fdc-57d8-420f-a0cb-1ca8415d4435",image:{id:"0114d1e3-1247-463d-8900-75d876109d99",filename:"mac-pc1x.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2015-10-27 09:45:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"cleanshot-2022-08-16-at-22-34-232x",credits:"Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EThe New context menu in Windows 11. This screenshot doesn't have any applications shown because it's a test machine. But if you had applications installed, they'd be in that wonderful menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2015\u002F10\u002F27\u002F0114d1e3-1247-463d-8900-75d876109d99\u002Fmac-pc1x.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:583,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Companies^Apple",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"for-two-bucks-you-can-finally-give-your-mac-an-incredibly-useful-feature-windows-has-always-had",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"For $2, you can finally give your Mac an incredibly useful feature Windows has always had",topic:{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b809c697-b45d-4fdb-b9b2-abc0c94914a3\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Apple\" data-image-alt-text=\"An iPhone taking a picture of a flowering plant\" data-image-filename=\"iphone-13.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"1296\" data-image-height=\"729\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're like me, you've probably snapped thousands of photos on your \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8778e16a-b1ab-47e5-a22a-5b1a1a8c67ea\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fiphone\u002Fbuy\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPhone\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E over the years. But now you want to copy them onto your computer for editing or just for safekeeping. No problem; there are a number of ways to do this. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can simply plug your iPhone into your PC via a USB cable and access the photos from your phone. You can use the Windows Photos app to import the photos from your phone to a specific folder. If you take advantage of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-do-i-get-onedrive-under-control-ask-zdnet\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOneDrive\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you can automatically upload new photos that you snap on your iPhone to the OneDrive Pictures folder. And you can always sync your photos with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-back-up-iphone-with-icloud-or-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EiCloud\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-i-took-control-of-my-iphones-photos-app-and-freed-up-gigabytes-of-space\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow I took control of my iPhone's photos and freed up gigabytes\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's explore each method so you can find out which one works best for you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Plug your phone into your PC \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe simplest way to transfer photos is to just plug your iPhone into your computer via USB.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7610e33e-ff80-4eee-aae9-f1fad8deba1a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7610e33e-ff80-4eee-aae9-f1fad8deba1a\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour phone should appear as a device in File Explorer. Double-click the icon for your iPhone and drill down through the Internal Storage and DCIM folders.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou should see one or more subfolders, each named with a number indicating the year and month the photos it contains were taken.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen the folder with the photos you want to access. From there, open another window in File Explorer pointing to the folder to which you want to copy the photos. Select the photos to transfer and then drag and drop or copy and paste them into the folder on your PC (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"686e7b23-bffc-4bc4-b025-4a821c968b6a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Select your photos.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"iPhone photo selected using File Explorer\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1199\" data-image-height=\"657\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough this seems like the easiest way to transfer photos, it doesn't always work reliably. Sometimes the DCIM folder doesn't appear. Other times, your latest photos may not be visible. In these cases, disconnecting and then reconnecting your phone to your PC may resolve this hiccup. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhow-to-photoshop-on-iphone\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to use Photoshop on your iPhone\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Use the Photos app in Windows \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother option is to import the photos to your PC using Microsoft's Photos app. To do this, connect your iPhone to your computer via USB. Open the Windows Photos app. Click the Import icon in the upper right corner and select the option \"From a connected device\" (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0d810530-0701-48d5-a19e-085afb44bf09\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Importing from a connected device.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Transfer photos using Windows Photos app\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1459\" data-image-height=\"819\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe app should detect your connected iPhone and display the photos stored on it. By default, the photos will be imported to the Pictures folder under your user account, but you can change this by clicking the link for \"Change destination\" and selecting a different folder. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the drop-down menu for Select and choose whether you want to import all folders or only those since the last import.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also select all photos for a certain month and year or manually select individual photos. Further, you can opt to delete all the photos on your phone after they've been imported. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter you've configured the import, click the button for \"Import [x number] of [x] items\" and the photos will be transferred to the chosen destination folder on your PC. If you opted to delete the photos from your phone, you'll be asked to confirm the deletion as the final step (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c5d53248-749f-4312-990b-ed128de74138\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Import items.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Importing 68 of 68 photos\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1459\" data-image-height=\"819\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Use OneDrive \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you already use OneDrive to back up and sync your files, then you can enlist it to back up and sync photos from your iPhone to your PC. To set this up, download and install the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.apple.com\u002Fus\u002Fapp\u002Fmicrosoft-onedrive\u002Fid477537958\"\u003EOneDrive iOS app\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on your phone if you aren't already using it. Open the app and tap the Photos icon on the bottom. Tap the Turn On button for Camera Upload.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can opt to upload selected photos, allow access to all photos, or or not to allow access. You'll want to choose the option to allow access to all photos. Your photos are then uploaded and visible on the Photos screen of the OneDrive app (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"589649ef-a4cf-4a3b-9155-73307ecdf36a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E OneDrive requesting access to photos.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshots\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Transfer photos using OneDrive\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"708\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn your PC, open the OneDrive folder, select Photos, and then select Camera Roll. In Camera Roll you'll see subfolders for year and then month. Open one of the month folders to see the photos inside. You can either leave the photos in OneDrive accessible on your PC or copy them to a local folder (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ea7c9f9b-0e56-454e-bbc3-77fdca6e0d56\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Photos in OneDrive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"View photos on OneDrive\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1117\" data-image-height=\"469\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Use iCloud Photos \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother option for copying your iPhone photos to your Windows PC is to use iCloud Photos. This provides access to your photos not only on your computer but on any other Apple device syncing with iCloud. On your iPhone, go to Settings and select your name at the top of the screen. Tap the setting for iCloud, select Photos, and then toggle on \"Sync this iPhone.\" You can also flick on the switch for Shared Albums if you want to share or access shared albums with other people (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0946d626-5a78-4b26-a257-16c6d52eda8a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Enable iCloud Photos syncing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshots\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Enable iCloud Photos\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"708\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you'll need to download the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002Fdetail\u002Ficloud\u002F9PKTQ5699M62?hl=en-us&gl=US\"\u003EiCloud for Windows app\u003C\u002Fa\u003E from the Microsoft Store. Open the app after installation and click the Options button for Photos. Check the options for iCloud Photos and Shared Albums if not already checked. Click Done and then click Apply \u003Cstrong\u003E(Figure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3001ce4c-2ef4-4efc-b6bc-f9412ef67b01\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Enable iCloud Photos.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up iCloud for Windows\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"772\" data-image-height=\"619\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen File Explorer and click the entry for iCloud Photos. You should now see all your synced photos (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2d36d6a5-88ff-4d2e-b4b3-fd4b87593632\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Your iCloud photos on Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot\u002FLance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"View your photos from iCloud Photos\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1144\" data-image-height=\"518\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe iCloud for Windows app is a handy option for a Windows PC, but it is saddled with a couple of major drawbacks. The app dumps all your photos into one flat folder structure, so they're not organized according to any folders or albums you may have created on your iPhone or in iCloud. Also, the app doesn't support true two-way syncing, so if you delete a photo in the iCloud folder on your Windows PC, it does not get deleted in iCloud or on your other devices. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Best options \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, I think Windows Photos is your best bet for manually transferring photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC, and OneDrive is the best method for automatically transferring them. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-01 20:40:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Need a quick and reliable way to copy photos from your iPhone to your PC? Here are a few options.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"43c19100-826d-4c58-9106-33931eeec6a5",image:{id:"b809c697-b45d-4fdb-b9b2-abc0c94914a3",filename:"iphone-13.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-07-11 15:21:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"iphone-13",credits:"iPhone 13",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F11\u002Fb809c697-b45d-4fdb-b9b2-abc0c94914a3\u002Fiphone-13.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1296,height:729,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Smartphones^iPhone",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-transfer-photos-from-your-iphone-to-your-windows-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to transfer photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC",topic:{id:"1093d9cb-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"iphone",name:"iPhone",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"1093d9cb-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"iphone",name:"iPhone",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"a1897105-61bd-4610-abb3-4804906d4a9a",slug:"home-and-office",name:"Home & Office",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0a6fffc2-2220-44ba-99e4-4c567f6f57bb",username:"maria-diaz-zd",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Maria",lastName:"Diaz",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"d89921b7-c002-40ef-8401-f002f1a769e9",filename:"maria-diaz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:44:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fd89921b7-c002-40ef-8401-f002f1a769e9\u002Fmaria-diaz.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Maria Diaz is a staff writer based in the Raleigh-Durham, NC area with a passion for home automation and a background in graphic design, photography, and filmmaking. She has a bachelor's in Mass Communication and experience in journalism.",profile:c,title:"Staff Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"eaca28ea-e2c3-46f5-b07a-401e49afd43a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EiCloud for Windows can become your new password manager.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"iCloud window on a Windows laptop.\" data-image-filename=\"icloud-windows.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-friends-could-help-stop-you-getting-locked-out-of-your-apple-id\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple ID\u003C\u002Fa\u003E gives you access to many perks within the Apple software ecosystem, and one of them is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-locate-a-password-with-the-macos-keychain\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EKeychain\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: iCloud's password manager.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7098396a-45dc-4f31-8567-d4b310457b81\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7098396a-45dc-4f31-8567-d4b310457b81\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhether you use Keychain already or are in the market for a new password manager for your Windows computer after your \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ea164d21-7eec-4c43-a17d-950ec629f52d\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lastpass.com\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"free trial of LastPass\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E expired, using \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-back-up-iphone-with-icloud-or-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EiCloud\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as a password manager is possible not only on MacOS devices but also on Windows PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you've been around for the past 10 or so years, you know that most services require accounts set up to access them. This means that we end up with dozens of passwords that we somehow have to remember for each one of those accounts.   \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe 10 best Windows laptops, 2-in-1s, and ultraportables\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut how can I remember all these passwords if I can't even remember my significant other's phone number half the time?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to use iCloud as a password manager on Windows\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ea395680-2bb1-46d2-b8cb-171e72f5a5db\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EGo to your Start menu and open iCloud for Windows. Adding iCloud for Windows to your computer lets you manage your passwords from your PC and generate verification codes when an account needs \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftwo-factor-authentication-is-a-great-idea-but-not-enough-people-are-using-it\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etwo-factor authentication\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (2FA).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMake sure you have \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fapps.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002Fdetail\u002Ficloud\u002F9PKTQ5699M62?hl=en-us&amp;gl=us" target="_blank"\u003Edownloaded iCloud for your Windows PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Open iCloud for Windows\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b2c34312-4c25-475c-b166-e986b853d6a1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EGo to the Start menu and open iCloud for Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"iCloud highlighted in green box with arrow pointing to it in Windows laptop.\" data-image-filename=\"step1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b216b78e-3fb5-4c36-8e1b-c215d591c126\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOnce you sign in to your account -- if you haven't already -- you can access your account, add another account, and make any necessary changes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGo to Passwords, and click Apply.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Sign in to your iCloud Passwords\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"74839d13-54c0-4925-a6e5-e35574caccbc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESign in with your Apple ID and password.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Login page for iCloud Passwords.\" data-image-filename=\"log-into-icloud-copy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f8f40929-1025-4a00-a23e-d9951949caa3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMake sure Passwords is selected on the iCloud window, then click on \u003Cstrong\u003EApply\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to make the changes. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also install browser extensions at this point.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Make sure Passwords is on and click Apply\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4a1a3a2c-fa93-4676-a5d0-32b3ed6476dc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMake sure Passwords is on and click \u003Cstrong\u003EApply\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Passwords highlighted in green box with arrow pointing to it on a Windows laptop.\" data-image-filename=\"untitled-1-copy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9d623095-da61-4b8a-89f1-6a487c7998b5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt this point, you can also add a browser extension to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmalicious-google-chrome-extensions-affect-1-4-million-users\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EGoogle Chrome\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbeef-up-microsoft-edge-with-my-favorite-add-ons\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMicrosoft Edge\u003C\u002Fa\u003E by following the instructions in the iCloud for Windows app.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Add browser extension\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"68a4b7ce-5b5c-46d7-8faf-115ced13fe42\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOnce you click \u003Cstrong\u003EInstall Extension\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E in iCloud, you'll be able to add the \u003Cstrong\u003EiCloud Passwords\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E extension in Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"iCloud Passwords Chrome extension.\" data-image-filename=\"add-extension.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHere's how you can still get a free Windows 10 upgrade\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"98934f98-d6dc-4a2e-8b9c-faaae7df661f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESince I added the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-chrome-extension\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EGoogle Chrome extension\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the next step is to \u003Cstrong\u003EEnable Autofill\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to give Chrome permission to my iCloud Passwords.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo do this, click on the Keychain button on the toolbar (marked with an arrow on the image below).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnabling Autofill will prompt 2FA with your Apple device. You can see my phone (second image below) is asking me to allow another PC to access my account, and then it will provide a verification code to enter on the Windows PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Enable Autofill on Chrome\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"291bed32-cf57-4b97-8cd2-2ac9024361a2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EEnable Autofill.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Green arrow pointing to where to Enable Autofill.\" data-image-filename=\"enable-autofill.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5ad733c4-732a-4bd7-bc28-f9fae87fc5e3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EEnter the verification code.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"iCloud two factor authentication.\" data-image-filename=\"iphione.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"979f8e5e-7d91-4ed6-9e44-63d95f8f785e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter you set up iCloud for \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-22h2-how-to-get-microsofts-latest-os-update-and-whats-coming-next\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as a password manager and your browser extension, you can try it out by going to a website and trying to log in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"6. Try out the password manager\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9c2d1429-d949-4c31-b264-49badac226af\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe iCloud Passwords icon is enabled and you can let it autofill your passwords.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maria Diaz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"LinkedIn login page with iCloud Passwords icon enabled.\" data-image-filename=\"filled-pw.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2100\" data-image-height=\"1182\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike LastPass, the browser extension will let you fill in your login information. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lastpass-alternatives\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWant to ditch LastPass? Here are the best alternatives to try\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFAQ\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow do you get iCloud for Windows?\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002Fdetail\u002Ficloud\u002F9PKTQ5699M62?hl=en-us&gl=us\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EiCloud for Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, just download the app on your Windows PC, then log in with your Apple ID. You'll be prompted to follow the steps for two-factor authentication by entering a verification code on an iPhone with iOS 14 or later, or an iPad with iPadOS 14 or later, or a Mac with MacOS 11 or later. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E How do I set up iCloud Keychain? \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EiCloud Keychain is available for your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-update-all-of-your-apple-devices\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple devices\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"edc70090-e7ca-4fa1-9578-b8a9f3bbd834\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fiphone\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPhone\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"11bc78d6-65e7-407e-90ce-42250bd54b6d\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fipad\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"iPad\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"0ea1a941-15b2-4325-8658-377ab1aeec2f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Mac\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. To set it up, go to your iPhone's Settings and tap on your name at the top of the screen to access your iCloud settings. Then, choose iCloud. Find Passwords and Keychain and select that, then tap on Sync this iPhone to turn it on. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to add iCloud Keychain to your Windows computer, then you can download iCloud Passwords.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Can I use LastPass for free? \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELastPass changed the terms on its free option, so that someone with a free account can only use the password manager on one device. This means that you'd need a subscription to use LastPass on both your iPhone and your Windows PC, for example. So, while you can use LastPass for free on your iPhone and iPad, the free version won't be also available for your Windows PC. This is why using iCloud Passwords for Windows is the best free option. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"73acd149-be52-4594-aa01-295e1bc9507b\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F73acd149-be52-4594-aa01-295e1bc9507b\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-22 13:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"If you already have an iPhone, an iPad, or a Mac, then a free and secure password manager has been in your hands all this time.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"aa130d25-9a36-4844-998b-2476f85e9629",image:{id:"e240071b-febc-4470-9a8f-557ca237e13f",filename:"gettyimages-1369567919-1-copy.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-09-21 16:52:30",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Businesswoman with smart phone looking at computer monitor. Young female professional is sitting at desk. She is wearing smart casuals at home office.",credits:"Image: Morsa Images via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F09\u002F21\u002Fe240071b-febc-4470-9a8f-557ca237e13f\u002Fgettyimages-1369567919-1-copy.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:7281,height:4856,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Security^Password Manager",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"break-up-with-lastpass-how-to-use-icloud-as-a-password-manager-on-windows",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Break up with LastPass: How to use iCloud as a password manager on Windows",topic:{id:"f2cbf828-9507-490c-aefd-dff02f47ee1a",slug:"password-manager",name:"Password Manager",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f2cbf828-9507-490c-aefd-dff02f47ee1a",slug:"password-manager",name:"Password Manager",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"863fe219-de4d-4c2d-9e95-55e19301075a",slug:"education",name:"Education",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6a9d851d-ae4d-4bcd-a25d-a36be324cc69\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"top-image-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"top-image-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"609\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI often install and test different applications and features in Windows as part of my work. And most of the time, I don't necessarily want those new or unknown apps and features to affect my main Windows working environment. The trick then is to keep any changes I make isolated from the core OS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI do rely on several Windows virtual machines running in applications like VMWare Workstation and Oracle VM VirtualBox. But sometimes, I just want a fast, temporary VM to do something relatively quick and simple. Plus, getting Windows 11 to work as a virtual machine in a third-party application can be challenging due to its onerous requirements. That's where the Windows Sandbox comes into play.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAvailable in the Pro and Enterprise flavors of Windows 10 and 11, the Sandbox is a lightweight and temporary virtual machine outfitted with the same version of Windows installed on your host PC, meaning 10 or 11. You can install apps, set up different features, and run processes without worrying about your activities conflicting with your core Windows environment.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESimply open the Sandbox, do what you need to do, and then shut it down. All your changes in the Sandbox disappear. The next time you open it, the Sandbox appears as a fresh installation of Windows. For now, restarting Windows in the Sandbox is not supported, so restarting is the same as shutting down, meaning any changes you've made disappear. However, Microsoft says that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindows-insider\u002F2021\u002F12\u002F01\u002Fannouncing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-22509\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 Build 22509 will support reboots in the Sandbox\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to allow changes to stick. That will certainly be helpful if you need to install an application or run another task that requires a reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's see how the Sandbox works in Windows 11. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, confirm that the virtualization features are enabled for your PC. Boot into the BIOS, look for a setting for Virtualization and make sure its switch is turned on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you'll need to install the Sandbox. And you can do this in a few different ways.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter booting into Windows 11, open Control Panel and select the applet for Programs and Features; on the next screen, click the option for \u003Cstrong\u003ETurn Windows features on or off\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. At the Windows Features window, scroll down the list and check the one for Windows Sandbox, click OK, and then reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, you can more easily get to the Windows Features window by clicking the Search icon and typing \u003Cem\u003Eoptionalfeatures\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. At the Windows Features window, check the box for Windows Sandbox, click OK, and reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"66464c74-be08-4046-a7d9-4711d63864af\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F66464c74-be08-4046-a7d9-4711d63864af\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet another way to enable the Sandbox is through a PowerShell command. Open the Windows Terminal app as an administrator. At the prompt, type this string: \u003Cem\u003EEnable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName \"Containers-DisposableClientVM\" -All\u003C\u002Fem\u003E or this string: \u003Cem\u003Edism \u002Fonline \u002FDisable-Feature \u002FFeatureName:\"Containers-DisposableClientVM\" -All\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. Reboot the PC if prompted.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELog back into Windows. Open the Start menu and go to All Apps. Scroll down to the W section to find the shortcut for Windows Sandbox. Before you actually open the Sandbox, add its shortcut to the Start menu and the Taskbar so you can more quickly access it in the future. Right-click and select Pin to Start. Right-click again, move to the More option and select Pin to Taskbar.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf the shortcut for Windows Sandbox doesn't appear in the Start menu or All Apps list, you get to grab the executable file directly. Open File Explorer to the Windows\\System 32 path. Scroll down until you see the WindowsSandbox.exe file. You can then create a shortcut from the file and put it in a convenient spot, such as the Desktop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the shortcut, and the Windows 11 environment appears in the Sandbox but with only the built-in applications and features. Click the Start button to see the pinned apps and then the All Apps entry to see all the installed Windows apps (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f7278794-aee1-4ef7-bbc4-087041558145\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"figure-1-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"658\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen an app such as Microsoft Edge. You have full internet access through the host machine's connectivity, so you can directly download and install an application you want to test in the Sandbox (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a3e0bacd-66dd-4a61-999f-ec093b347042\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"figure-2-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"658\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter you've tested the application, you might then want to start fresh with another task. Just exit the Sandbox as you would normally shut down Windows 11 or simply close its window, and whatever applications you installed or changes you made disappear.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen the Sandbox again. Now perhaps the file for the program you wish to install is already on your host machine. No problem. You can copy and paste any folder or file from your host into the Sandbox. Open File Explorer in both the host and the Sandbox. Then just select and copy the file you want to run or open and paste it into a folder in the Sandbox (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fa3958a0-0aa0-425f-8494-b4bb9e236787\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"figure-3-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-windows-11-sandbox-virtual-machine.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"751\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you decide you no longer want to use the Sandbox in Windows 11, you can remove it in a few different ways. Return to the Windows Features window in your host environment, uncheck the one for Windows Sandbox and then reboot. Alternatively, open Windows Terminal as an administrator and enter this string: \u003Cem\u003EDisable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName \"Containers-DisposableClientVM\" –Online\u003C\u002Fem\u003E or this string: \u003Cem\u003EDism \u002Fonline \u002FDisable-Feature \u002FFeatureName:\"Containers-DisposableClientVM\"\u003C\u002Fem\u003E and then reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, the Windows 11 Sandbox isn't as robust as a full-featured virtual machine program like VMWare Workstation, especially since, for now, you can't restart it without losing all your changes. But if you want to test a single application or enable a specific feature in Windows without affecting your core environment, the Sandbox offers a quick and easy way to do that.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-05-18 20:44:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Sandbox in Windows 11 gives you an isolated and temporary virtual machine to run things without affecting your core OS environment.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"ab6b5cec-86b1-4186-a144-2fba5c7ce298",image:{id:"13369703-226c-4572-84a5-1997803adbd6",filename:"windows10tiprepair-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2017-06-06 08:08:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"replace-this-image.jpg",credits:"Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EFor this maneuver, Windows 10 installment media is required (and can be obtained using the free Media Creation Tool). When you're set, download the ISO and double-click to mount it as a virtual drive. (Or, if you chose to create bootable media on a USB drive, open that removable drive in File Explorer.) Double-click Setup to begin reinstalling Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENote: I added the ellipses and the \"without losing your programs and apps\" to the headline because that seemed to be what the item was about, and putting that info in the head made the copy flow better. Noting because I'm not sure if I was supposed to reword the title of tips.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2017\u002F06\u002F06\u002F13369703-226c-4572-84a5-1997803adbd6\u002Fwindows10tiprepair-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:800,height:564,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-use-the-windows-11-sandbox-as-a-virtual-machine",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to use the Windows 11 Sandbox as a virtual machine",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6f2484ba-ed32-4a58-8cec-0b51fe667253\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"The Good Brigade\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Woman working on laptop\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1298709254.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhats-next-for-windows-cloud-integration-ad-and-subscription-powered-devices\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E takes advantage of a variety of keyboard keys and shortcuts to run different actions and commands. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENum Lock turns on the number pad. F1 conjures up a Help screen. Ctrl+C copies an item. Windows key+E opens File Explorer. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut you're not stuck with the existing keys or shortcuts. You can modify many of them with the help of a PowerToys tool called Keyboard Manager.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing Keyboard Manager, you're able to set various commands to use different keys and shortcuts other than their default ones. For example, maybe you want F1 to turn on the number pad or Windows key+C to copy an item. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs long as the key or shortcut follows certain rules and doesn't conflict with keys and shortcuts reserved by Windows, you can redefine it however you'd like. Here's how this works.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYes, you can still get a free Windows 10 upgrade. Here's how\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to remap keys using Keyboard Manager in Microsoft's PowerToys\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6896bc47-f6f7-4da7-b3db-57e8ed3e45b7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you don't yet have PowerToys on your PC, download and install the PowerToysSetup.exe file from the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fmicrosoft\u002FPowerToys\u002Freleases\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eprogram's GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. PowerToys and its tools work the same in&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-starts-rolling-out-the-annual-windows-10-feature-update-windows-10-22h2\u002F"\u003EWindows 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;and&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-here-comes-a-new-wave-of-features\u002F"\u003EWindows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Download the PowerToysSetup.exe file\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"797e3384-f75f-47ee-81eb-18bf3e60dc54\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor the changes you make in Keyboard Manager to always be in effect, PowerToys needs to run at startup. To confirm this, open PowerToys, select \u003Cstrong\u003EGeneral\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E, and make sure the switch is turned on for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERun at startup\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Next, select Keyboard Manager and confirm that its switch is on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Turn on Run at startup\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"65c76254-b637-4525-8f4c-1163b67656b3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOpen Keyboard Manager in PowerToys.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Keyboard Manager window in PowerToys\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1189\" data-image-height=\"638\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"965460b5-3b3a-477f-88ab-f87d51010633\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EBefore you try remapping specific keys and shortcuts, you'll want to find out what you can and can't do. Click the link for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fpowertoys\u002Fkeyboard-manager#keys-that-cannot-be-remapped"\u003ELearn more about remapping limitations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;to see which keys can't be remapped.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, you can't remap Win+L (locks Windows) or Ctrl+Alt+Del (gives you access to Task Manager) as those are reserved shortcuts. But you can remap the function keys F1-F12. If you try to redefine a reserved key in Keyboard Manager, you'll get a slap on the wrist to prevent you from proceeding.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Figure out what you can and can't do\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f4a2536a-e9c0-4461-91e0-3f740eef6c39\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EClick the entry for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERemap a key\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. To choose the physical key you want to remap, click the \u003Cstrong\u003E+\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E button. For example, maybe you want to redefine F12 to open a Help screen. You can select it one of two ways.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the dropdown window and scroll through all the choices until you find the one you want.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, click the \u003Cstrong\u003EType\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E button and press the key you wish to redefine. Then click \u003Cstrong\u003EOK\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to submit it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to use free PowerToys FancyZones in Windows and why you should\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Remap a key\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"47916a3b-90ce-4096-9f3d-5481ca86a2b3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EChoose the physical key for remapping.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Remap keys window to choose physical key\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"786\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"86c33f35-9131-489d-b45a-b5c763d961e5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EType the physical key for remapping.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"F12 key pressed selected with mouse hovering over OK\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"786\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f33c53c9-b04b-409a-b151-be18d11ca8a2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, select the key to which you want to remap the physical one.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, to replace F1 with F12 as the Help command, choose \u003Cstrong\u003EF1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E as the mapped-to key. Either click the dropdown menu and select the mapped-to key from the list, or click the \u003Cstrong\u003EType\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E button and press the key. When you're done, click \u003Cstrong\u003EOK\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E to activate the remapping.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Select the key to which you want to remap the physical one\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fa11cc54-14b5-42c9-9220-525f334be64d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EDefine the mapped-to key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"F1 Key pressed selected with mouse hovering over OK\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"786\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"bb56f5c4-7013-402f-bb7e-44c9cbaa98ce\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDepending on the physical key you chose, you may receive a notice telling you that the keys do not have assignments. Though the message sounds strange, it appears simply to warn you that the physical key will no longer be assigned to its previous command. Click&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EContinue Anyway\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;to confirm the remapping.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"6. Check if you receive a notice\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6a1faa4c-aed7-4bb8-a9c2-b7c9f4ce481c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EContinue Anyway.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Mouse hovering over Continue Anyway button\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"786\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8cb5979d-f7c7-4c64-b6d4-9e8f5713f5ff\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENow, open an application or window in which you can try the new key assignment. For example, if you replaced F1 with F12 to display a Help screen, open an app that offers help and press F12.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"7. Open an application or window\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"08dfb514-8cd9-43d7-bd29-b8b77801b4e8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ETry out the remapped key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"New window Google Chrome opened\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"742\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0993684f-5fe8-4515-9182-87ee5415c429\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EReturn to Keyboard Manager and click the entry for&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERemap a key\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Here, you can redefine either key for the remapping you just created, delete the remapping altogether, or click the \u003Cstrong\u003E+\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E button to create another remapping. Instead, though, let's look at how to remap a keyboard shortcut.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-keep-track-of-your-mouse-pointer-with-the-powertoys-mouse-utilities\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to keep track of your mouse pointer with the PowerToys Mouse utilities\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"8. Click Remap a key\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fbce9a7c-ef37-4850-b427-c83da7da3891\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAdd another key to remap.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Remap keys window with mouse hovering over Pause button.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"786\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to remap a shortcut\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the main Keyboard Manager screen, click the entry for \u003Cstrong\u003ERemap a shortcut\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Click the dropdown menu to select the physical shortcut or click the \u003Cstrong\u003EType\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E key to type it. The shortcut must start with a modifier key, meaning Alt, Ctrl, Shift, or Win. After choosing or typing the modifer key, select or type the accompanying key. For example, if you wish to redefine Win+F, choose \u003Cstrong\u003EWin\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E in the first column and \u003Cstrong\u003EF\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E in the second column.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ad131da7-76b4-4d58-b478-0849e323c45c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EChoose the physical shortcut.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Mouse selecting a physical shortcut\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1036\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, choose the shortcut or key that you wish to remap to the physical shortcut you selected. For example, if you want Win+E to be the mapped-to shortcut, choose \u003Cstrong\u003EWin\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E in the first column and \u003Cstrong\u003EE\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E in the second. You can also select an individual key instead of a shortcut.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62c0017e-65bc-47b2-831b-819c0ea2c0d5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EChoose the mapped-to shortcut or key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Selecting the mapped-to shortcut or key\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1036\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy default, your new mapping will work across Windows and all applications. But you may want to limit it to just a specific app, such as Microsoft Word or Google Chrome. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo do this, you first need to find the name of the app's executible file. Right-click on the shortcut for the app in the Start menu, go to \u003Cstrong\u003EMore\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E, and select \u003Cstrong\u003EOpen file location\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Right-click on the app's icon in File Explorer and select \u003Cstrong\u003EProperties\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. The name of the executable file appears in the Target field. Copy and paste or type that filename in the field under Target App. When done, click \u003Cstrong\u003EOK\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-shrink-your-images-with-the-powertoys-image-resizer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to shrink your images with the PowerToys Image Resizer\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bafd64ca-4ee0-4c81-afad-ad1c3caff782\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ELimit the shortcut to a specific application.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Remap shortcuts window with mouse hovering over OK\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1036\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you limited the remapping to a specific app, open that app. Otherwise, go anywhere in Windows. Press the new keystroke you defined to make sure that it triggers the command from the original physical keystroke.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"34d9f469-8eab-4f0c-97be-35ff88123d34\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ETry out the new shortcut.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft document and PC settings window open\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-remap-keys-using-the-keyboard-manager-in-microsoft-powertoys.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"515\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"2db6bf39-e9c6-4606-a92b-50d0c4bdc8f7\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F2db6bf39-e9c6-4606-a92b-50d0c4bdc8f7\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-11-10 20:33:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"With Keyboard Manager, you can redefine keyboard keys and shortcuts used to trigger different commands.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"167cd2c4-1abf-4761-ad0c-e0ee31a9c005",image:{id:"6f2484ba-ed32-4a58-8cec-0b51fe667253",filename:"gettyimages-1298709254.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-05-11 19:56:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Woman working on laptop",credits:"The Good Brigade\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F05\u002F11\u002F6f2484ba-ed32-4a58-8cec-0b51fe667253\u002Fgettyimages-1298709254.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-remap-keys-using-keyboard-manager-in-microsofts-powertoys",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to remap keys using Keyboard Manager in Microsoft's PowerToys",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"705760b7-377d-4d38-aeda-6a13df1b757c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\" data-image-alt-text=\"A signpost with signs saying Backup and Restore\" data-image-filename=\"backup-and-restore-signs.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F03\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"5000\" data-image-height=\"3500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBacking up your documents and other files in Windows is always advisable in case the originals ever get lost or corrupted. That's especially true for files that are important, sensitive, or irreplaceable. But ideally, you want a seamless and automated way to back up your files so that you don't have to keep doing it manually. Though you can turn to a variety of third-party backup programs, a tool built into Windows is worth trying, namely, File History.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAvailable in Windows 10 and 11, File History will automatically back up files from specific folders on your PC to an external source, such as a USB drive or network location. Your backups run in the background based on the interval you set. And if you ever need to restore a file, just open and browse through your previous backups to find the right version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy default, File History will back up specific folders under your User account, such as Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, and Desktop. You can remove and add folders to make sure that all the files you choose are backed up no matter where they reside. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne downside of using File History is that its days may be numbered. I've heard rumors that Microsoft plans to deprecate the feature at some point, forcing users to turn to other backup methods, such as OneDrive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne clue to File History's future lies in the way it works in Windows 11 versus Windows 10. In Windows 10, the feature is easy to set up and use as you run it from the Settings app. But in Windows 11, Microsoft removed File History from Settings; your only option is to run it from Control Panel, which is clumsy and seems like a clear step backward.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERegardless of Microsoft's plans for File History, the tool remains accessible in both Windows 10 and Windows 11 and functions as a capable backup method. As long as it's still around, it's still worth using. Here's how to take advantage of it in both Windows 10 and 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWindows 10 File History Backup\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Windows 10, go to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > Update & Security > Backup\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Connect the drive or device that you want to use as the backup location. Click the button for \"Add a drive,\" and select the drive you wish to use. This turns on File History (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ee413e0a-1d09-4ad5-9adf-ad79e6693cb4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 1\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choosing backup destination\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1161\" data-image-height=\"533\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick the link for \"More options.\" At the Backup options screen, click the dropdown menu for \u003Cstrong\u003EBack up my files\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and set the backup interval, anywhere from every 10 minutes to daily. Next, click the menu for \u003Cstrong\u003EKeep my backups\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and decide how long you wish to retain each backup, anywhere from \"Until space is needed\" to Forever (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c7caef83-30f9-4489-9956-e5b84c45dddf\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose backup interval\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1003\" data-image-height=\"461\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can set which folders to include and exclude in the backup. Review the folders that are already tagged for File History. If any folders that you want backed up are not listed, click the Add a folder button and select that folder (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8a4440a3-107f-45d0-8e99-76f1eae35979\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Add a folder\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1141\" data-image-height=\"614\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf the list displays any folder that you don't want backed up, select it and then click the Remove button (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"171fe991-bab9-429c-a582-a666feffff30\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 4\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Remove a folder\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1069\" data-image-height=\"570\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo exclude any folder not displayed in the list, such as a subfolder, click the Add a Folder button in the section for \u003Cstrong\u003EExclude these folders\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and select that folder (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3a3f0780-514b-4ef4-92bc-3c4053cd87e1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Exclude a folder\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1088\" data-image-height=\"559\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDepending on the backup schedule you chose, the File History backup may have already started by itself. If not, scroll to the top of the screen and click the Back up now button (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"def7efbb-9a20-47c3-867f-cdd7d398f14e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 6\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Selecting Back up now\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1013\" data-image-height=\"564\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe backup will kick off in the background, both now and repeating at the interval you set. You can go about your work as the backup runs. After it's completed, the overview section indicates the date and time of the last backup.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWindows 10 File History Restore\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow let's say one or more of the files backed up through File History goes missing, gets corrupted, or is otherwise unreadable and unusable, and you want to restore that file from the backup. Scroll to the bottom of the File History screen in Settings and click the link for \"Restore files from a current backup\" (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"67485016-a013-45a9-afb6-4be43104800d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 7\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Restore files\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1061\" data-image-height=\"545\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUp pops a File History window showing the last backup. If you need a file from a previous backup, click the left arrow icon at the bottom of the screen. Keep clicking the icon to go back in time to each prior backup. Click the right arrow to move ahead. When you find the backup you need, open the folder that contains the file or files you want to restore, select those files, and then click the Restore button at the bottom. The files are restored to their original location (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"09be299b-cd75-45fa-b4e1-c82c6f608046\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 8\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select files to restore\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1176\" data-image-height=\"530\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWindows 11 File History Backup\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo use File History in Windows 11, make sure the drive you want to use as the backup location is connected. Open Control Panel in icon view and select the File History icon (or click the Search icon, type File History, and select the result). The File History window should point to the backup destination under \"Copy files to:\" (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1a4fa0d5-f177-453e-ae45-896f39e40c90\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 9\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set up File History\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1201\" data-image-height=\"543\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf more than one backup drive is connected, click the link on the left for \u003Cstrong\u003ESelect drive\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Select the drive you wish to use and click OK (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0a7d27ea-a482-4905-be64-8915fbdd3d30\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Select backup destination\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1113\" data-image-height=\"707\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, you can add other folders to the backup beyond the default ones, though the process here is kludgy. By default, File History in Windows 10 backs up all the folders listed under Libraries. To add another folder to the backup, open File Explorer, right-click on the folder and select \"Show more options.\" From the full context menu, select \u003Cstrong\u003EInclude in library\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and then add it to an existing folder or create it as a new library. That folder will then be included in File History (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4f73f5f0-9add-46a3-93a7-738a69e44ab2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Add folder to library\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"660\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo exclude a folder, click the link for \u003Cstrong\u003EExclude folders\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. Click the Add button and then select the folder you wish to exclude from the backup (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 12\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"aeaf8942-9f3c-4f81-a77d-8a2ae71b5954\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 12\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Exclude folder\" data-image-filename=\"figure-12-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"627\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReturn to the main File History Control Panel window and click the link for Advanced settings. Click the dropdown menu for \u003Cstrong\u003ESave copies of files\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and set the backup interval. Click the dropdown menu for \u003Cstrong\u003EKeep saved version\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and set how long File History backups should be retained. When done, click \"Save changes\" (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 13\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2b3ea93e-4c0b-4712-bed3-955b5829d5b0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 13\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Set backup interval\" data-image-filename=\"figure-13-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1119\" data-image-height=\"696\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWindows 11 File History Restore\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe backup should have already started at this point. If not, click the \"Run now\" link. If you need to restore a file at some point in the future, return to the File History screen in Control Panel and click the link for \"Restore personal files.\" Search your backups and open the folder that contains the file you wish to restore. Select the file and click the button for \"Restore to original location.\" Your file will be restored to its original spot (\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 14\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"cfa9f40b-c25d-4e35-a179-09b0b39fba2c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFigure 14\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Lance Whitney\u002FScreenshot\" data-image-alt-text=\"Restore file\" data-image-filename=\"figure-14-how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F08\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"746\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-08-08 18:28:05",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"File History will automatically back up critical folders and files in Windows and help you restore them.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"cffb4f25-8d05-4236-b129-ba57008d2439",image:{id:"705760b7-377d-4d38-aeda-6a13df1b757c",filename:"backup-and-restore-signs.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-03-25 14:28:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F25\u002F705760b7-377d-4d38-aeda-6a13df1b757c\u002Fbackup-and-restore-signs.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:5000,height:3500,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-back-up-your-files-in-windows-10-and-11-with-file-history",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to back up your files in Windows 10 and 11 with File History",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b",filename:"thumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-04-20 18:05:46",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F20\u002F50f6af8c-f846-4158-835e-fd3c636dfa2b\u002Fthumbnail-lance-whitney-zdnet-shot2.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"38da47f1-8eba-4a5e-a9a3-3a3fb4af4faa\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStart11 Windows 11 Start Menu Replacement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Screenshot of the Start11 Windows 11 Start Menu Replacement.\" data-image-filename=\"top-image-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1271\" data-image-height=\"868\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-former-windows-user-experience-chief-has-issues-with-the-windows-11-start-menu\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 Start menu has peeved and perturbed lots of people\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with its clunky layout and lack of customization. Instead of enhancing and improving the previous menu designs from Windows 7 and 10, Microsoft opted for a backward redesign that has left many of us wondering, \"What were they thinking?\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWell, if you hate the new Start menu in Windows 11 as much as I do and want something more usable and customizable, your best bet is to switch to a Start menu replacement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeveral third-party apps can replace the Windows 11 Start menu with a more familiar look and layout and a variety of ways to customize it. The program I use on my Windows 11 machines is Start11. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut there are other utilities worth checking out as well, including StartAllBack and Open Shell Menu. Here's how to get the Windows 11 Start menu you deserve.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-22h2-how-to-get-microsofts-latest-os-update-and-whats-coming-next\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWindows 11 22H2: How to get Microsoft's latest OS update and what's coming next\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EStart11\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPriced at $5.99 for a single license, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.stardock.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fstart11\u002Fdownload\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EStardock's Start11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E lets you choose from among four different Start menu layouts. The Windows 7 and Modern styles offer the traditional two-column display with all apps or favorite apps on the left and shortcuts to different Windows features and locations on the right. A Windows 10 style uses the familiar menu and tiled screen combination. There's even a Windows 11 style, but one that provides more features and flexibility than the built-in menu. I've always liked the two-column display, so I use the Modern style menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0b137919-e448-4037-8591-0c27e4225df7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStart11 Start menu choices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choices for the Start11 Start menu style.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"611\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhichever menu you choose, you're able to tweak its look, layout, and design. You can opt for a regular menu that uses the full width or a more compact design that shrinks certain items. Further, you're able to configure the all-apps list, add and remove shortcuts, adjust the color and appearance, and determine when and how the Start11 menu is triggered.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"80741ea1-0fd2-4243-b843-cfcd0e064fd0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStart11 configuration options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Configuration section of Start11.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"649\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStart11 also provides much-needed assistance to the Windows 11 Taskbar, which itself has been criticized for its limitations and lack of flexibility. You can tweak the color and transparency of the Taskbar, adjust its size, choose where it should appear on both a primary and secondary monitor, and decide if and when Taskbar buttons should be combined.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a9198cd9-4961-4676-adb6-ccc92b2659c9\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStart11 Taskbar options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Taskbar section of Start11.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1300\" data-image-height=\"591\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother bonus is that you can rename, move, and delete folders and shortcuts directly from the Start menu just as Windows long ago allowed you to do. Whether you use Start11 as is or dive into its many customizations, you'll find this a friendly and effective alternative to the regular Windows 11 Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c5be6372-5ecd-48ce-a60b-282d7c7e21a2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStart11 Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"The Start11 Start menu.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1271\" data-image-height=\"868\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe 10 best Windows laptops: Top notebooks, 2-in-1s, and ultraportables\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EStartAllBack\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt a cost of $4.99 for one license, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.startallback.com\u002F\"\u003EStartAllBack\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is a more basic but still capable Start menu replacement. Right off the bat, the program asks what theme you wish to use for the menu, offering three choices: Proper 11, Kinda 10, and Remastered 7. Despite their names, all three kick in the traditional two-column layout with program shortcuts on the left and Windows features on the right. The differences between them are more aesthetic and depend on whether you prefer rounded or square corners, for example.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2889d3fb-63f8-4a51-9f93-0b9908699dd6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStartAllBack Start menu choices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Theme options for StartAllBack Start menu.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1148\" data-image-height=\"517\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter you've picked your preferred theme, head to the Start Menu section in the program to tweak the menu's style, appearance, and functionality. You can control the size of the menu's icons, opt to display modern apps in their own folder, choose to highlight newly installed programs, and set up the shortcuts on the right side as menus or as links.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"10871829-1b7a-4513-90ab-0f7ba756a2cc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStartAllBack configuration options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Configuration section for StartAllBack.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1149\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike Start11, StartAllBack possesses the power to spruce up the Taskbar. You can pick a custom image for the Start button, select a visual style for the Taskbar, and determine how to combine Taskbar buttons. Best of all, you can position the Taskbar at the top, bottom, left, or right, a capability that Microsoft offers in Windows 10 but killed in Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"953481dd-af22-4c2b-822a-7b632ee33f0b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStartAllBack Taskbar options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Taskbar section of StartAllBack.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1154\" data-image-height=\"593\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStartAllBack even taps into File Explorer, letting you choose between the Ribbon interface or command bar, turn on the classic search box, and restore the classic context menus from Windows 10. If you want a simple but capable Start menu replacement, StartAllBack is a good choice.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"06e50580-5943-4448-848b-3320feec66fc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EStartAllBack Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Screenshot of the StartAllBack Start menu.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1112\" data-image-height=\"541\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-downgrade-a-windows-11-pc-to-windows-10\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to 'downgrade' a Windows 11 PC to a Windows 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOpen Shell Menu\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough not specifically designed for Windows 11, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002FOpen-Shell\u002FOpen-Shell-Menu\"\u003EOpen Shell Menu\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is a free Start menu replacement that works in the new OS with a bit of coaxing. After downloading and installing the program from its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002FOpen-Shell\u002FOpen-Shell-Menu\"\u003EGitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you'll need to enable a new Start button to access the menu. To do this, click the regular Windows 11 Start button, go to All Apps, select the folder for Open Shell, and click the shortcut for Open Shell Menu Settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the Settings screen, choose the Start menu layout you prefer -- Classic style with one column, Classic with two columns, or Windows 7 style with two columns. Then check the box for Replace Start button and select one of the built-in images.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3f03684b-d217-4b50-abb5-ff7caa899338\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOpen Shell Menu Start menu choices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Styles for Open Shell Menu Start menu.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-9-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1193\" data-image-height=\"579\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile you're at the settings screen, you can tweak many other options: You can determine how to trigger the Open Shell Start menu, show recent or frequently used programs, choose the behavior of the Shut Down button, and opt to display the Search box. Next, you can tweak the skin options to set the size of fonts and icons. A section for Taskbar lets you adjust the size, color, and opacity of the Taskbar. And then you can pick which features you want to see in the Start menu and whether they appear as links or as menus.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5da20a4a-674a-4c75-af2f-234dc7f22232\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOpen Shell Menu configuration options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Configuration options in Open Shell Menu.\" data-image-filename=\"figure-10-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1191\" data-image-height=\"578\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo delve even deeper into the program, check the box for \"Show all settings\" and review the additional options. Otherwise, click the Start button to see the results. Though it's not as polished as Start11 or StartAllBack, the Open Shell menu is certainly worth considering, especially if you're looking for a free Start menu replacement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"df6521d1-1dad-4faf-820a-ebf20c0aec06\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EOpen Shell Menu Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Open Shell Menu Start menu\" data-image-filename=\"figure-11-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1111\" data-image-height=\"609\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-26 17:09:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Can't stand the new Start menu in Windows 11? Here's how to replace it with a more user-friendly tool.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"d16ff017-ed29-4572-aa6e-72fcf02e822b",image:{id:"38da47f1-8eba-4a5e-a9a3-3a3fb4af4faa",filename:"top-image-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-21 16:41:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg",credits:"ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F21\u002F38da47f1-8eba-4a5e-a9a3-3a3fb4af4faa\u002Ftop-image-how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu-with-a-third-party-app.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1271,height:868,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-replace-the-windows-11-start-menu",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to replace your Windows 11 Start menu with a third-party app",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:"Practical tips, tricks, and advice for getting things done",description:c,filters:c,paging:c,slug:"dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-how-to",title:"How-to Guides",label:c,viewMoreText:c,viewMoreUrl:c,relatedItems:c},{id:"58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",meta:{componentName:"58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",componentDisplayName:"Analysis & Opinion",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e"}},items:[{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"20129da4-c9fc-47f6-ab8e-884c002910d4\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"SEAN GLADWELL\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"virus icon\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1211997725.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2067\" data-image-height=\"1450\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn June, the United States Department of Commerce \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-us-bans-kaspersky-products-citing-security-risks-what-this-means-for-you\u002F\"\u003Eannounced a ban on Kaspersky software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. As ZDNET's Lance Whitney reported, as of September 29, Kaspersky is no longer able to provide antivirus signature updates and code updates for the banned products to customers in the US. The company even \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fone-million-us-kaspersky-customers-to-be-migrated-to-this-lesser-known-alternative\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emigrated a million customers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to a lesser-known replacement product.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-should-protect-your-windows-pc-data-with-strong-encryption-heres-how-and-why\u002F\"\u003EYou should protect your Windows PC data with strong encryption - here's how and why\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I read that news, I was as shocked as anyone. Did someone accidentally press a button that transported us back to 1999? People still pay for third-party antivirus software?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApparently, people do, but good luck finding reliable information on the market for antivirus software in 2024. Most of the data I was able to uncover came from the developers of said software, which is not the most reliable source.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAntivirus software by the numbers\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.security.org\u002Fantivirus\u002Fantivirus-consumer-report-annual\u002F\"\u003Erecent survey by Security.org\u003C\u002Fa\u003E revealed some believable numbers about the US market. It found that roughly 54% of Americans use the default virus protection that comes with their device, while 46% use third-party antivirus programs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F7-password-rules-to-live-by-in-2024-according-to-security-experts\u002F\"\u003E7 password rules to live by in 2024, according to security experts\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, of those who install extra protection, only a little more than half (33 million households) pay for the privilege. Norton and McAfee collectively account for 52% of those paying customers, with Kaspersky accounting for a mere 4% of the market. If those numbers are accurate, 1.3 million Americans should be able to demand a refund from Kaspersky later this year.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's the part that jumped out at me from that report:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOlder Americans are significantly more likely to use third-party antivirus programs and pay for the software. Those over 65 are twice as likely to subscribe to paid antivirus services than those under 45.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFull disclosure here: I'm in the over-65 demographic, with a full head of gray hair, and I haven't used third-party antivirus software in decades. But my silver-haired peers are still paying. Why? For the same reason they still use checkbooks. It's what they grew up with, and it makes them feel comfortable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-cracks-down-on-windows-11-upgrades-for-incompatible-pcs-but-theres-a-fix-for-now\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft cracks down on Windows 11 upgrades for 'incompatible' PCs, but there's a fix\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's also a colossal waste of money.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to protect your tech in 2024\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERegardless of which device category we're talking about here, you're likely to be just fine with the default protection that's included as part of the platform. On a mobile device (iOS or Android), that means the app store that the OS developer manages. On a Mac, the XProtect antimalware technology has been around for over a decade and is effective against mainstream threats.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsick-of-ads-on-android-change-these-5-settings-for-more-privacy\u002F\"\u003ESick of ads on Android? Change these 5 settings for more privacy - fast\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs for Windows? Well, Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which is included with every Windows PC, routinely aced the tests from third-party labs that measure the effectiveness of security software. The leveling-up process started about seven years ago, and the Microsoft solution has \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.av-test.org\u002Fen\u002Fantivirus\u002Fhome-windows\u002Fmanufacturer\u002Fmicrosoft\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eregularly scored between 99% and 100%\u003C\u002Fa\u003E since then, making it every bit as effective as third-party rivals, free or paid.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven that result understates the case.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the turn of the 21st century, when the Windows PC landscape was at its wildest and wooliest, most malware arrived on people's PCs as email attachments or over networks. Today, those vectors are effectively closed off. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAutomatic updates protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Your modern email client blocks any kind of executable file attachment, including script-based files. Network firewalls have come a long way since (checks calendar) 2002. And recent test results show that Microsoft Defender is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.av-test.org\u002Fen\u002Fnews\u002Fdisguise-and-deception-how-brand-new-malware-attacks-are-carried-out-on-windows-systems\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eeffective at blocking all of the most popular attack vectors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-ransomware-everything-you-need-to-know-and-how-to-reduce-your-risk\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eransomware\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and info stealers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-public-wi-fi-safely\u002F\"\u003EHow to use public Wi-Fi safely: 5 things to know before you connect\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn average, a modern antivirus app blocks 99.2% of the very few incoming threats that get past the other layers of protection. And even then, your own instincts (\"Don't click that link!\") are also effective. This is why the modern, fully patched consumer PC isn't really a target of the criminal gangs responsible for modern malware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe main targets  \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost attacks are launched by sophisticated criminal gangs and aimed at businesses, using vulnerabilities that are more likely to be in third-party software than they are in the OS itself. Russian hackers \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.npr.org\u002F2021\u002F04\u002F16\u002F985439655\u002Fa-worst-nightmare-cyberattack-the-untold-story-of-the-solarwinds-hack\"\u003Eused SolarWinds management software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to hack Microsoft and other high-value targets. A widely-used app called \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fa-new-moveit-vulnerability-is-igniting-hacking-attempts-companies-should-patch-asap\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMOVEit\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, from Progress Software, was \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Farstechnica.com\u002Finformation-technology\u002F2023\u002F06\u002Fmass-exploitation-of-critical-moveit-flaw-is-ransacking-orgs-big-and-small\u002F\"\u003Eexploited in a breach that affected thousands of big companies and government agencies\u003C\u002Fa\u003E last year, and a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Farstechnica.com\u002Fsecurity\u002F2024\u002F06\u002Fcritical-moveit-vulnerability-puts-huge-swaths-of-the-internet-at-severe-risk\u002F\"\u003Enew vulnerability\u003C\u002Fa\u003E was reported in June.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShell, British Airways, the BBC, and the Canadian province of Nova Scotia were the victims of the MOVEit attack, not random PC users. These days, big-time cybercriminals are focusing on that kind of target. A signature-based antivirus app isn't going to provide protection against those targeted attacks. Instead, IT departments in large organizations need sophisticated network-based software that allows administrators to monitor for signs of an intrusion in real time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\"\u003EThe best VPN services of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall-fry users are reasonably well protected via default security measures, mostly because determined attackers see no financial benefit in picking on such puny victims. If you're still paying Norton, McAfee, or Kaspersky for antivirus protection on your home PC, it's time to let that subscription expire. But if your IT department at work says they want you to install an endpoint monitoring app, take them at their word.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust make sure it's not from Kaspersky.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published on July 1, 2024, and last updated on Oct. 8, 2024. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-10-08 18:55:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Americans over 65 are twice as likely to pay for third-party antivirus software than those under 45. If you're still doing it, here's why you can stop.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"f45b2697-cf23-4341-942a-3ca07e51c757",image:{id:"20129da4-c9fc-47f6-ab8e-884c002910d4",filename:"gettyimages-1211997725.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-10-08 18:53:07",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"virus icon",credits:"SEAN GLADWELL\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F08\u002F20129da4-c9fc-47f6-ab8e-884c002910d4\u002Fgettyimages-1211997725.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2067,height:1450,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"why-you-dont-need-to-pay-for-antivirus-software-anymore",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Why you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3fdfd730-f820-461b-ae32-4ec0ddfd2e7b\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"MirageC\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"money signs\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1147839022.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs Windows 10 begins its final year of official support, Microsoft is executing a familiar game plan for its business customers.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast April, in separate posts on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftechcommunity.microsoft.com\u002Ft5\u002Fwindows-it-pro-blog\u002Fwhen-to-use-windows-10-extended-security-updates\u002Fba-p\u002F4102628\"\u003EWindows IT Pro Blog\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Feducationblog.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002F2024\u002F04\u002Fwindows-10-end-of-support-updates-for-education\"\u003EMicrosoft Education Blog\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the company revealed its price list for commercial and education customers who want to continue receiving security updates for Windows 10 after the end-of-support deadline arrives on October 14, 2025. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company had previously confirmed that it plans to offer a version of this program for consumers, but waited six additional months, until October 31, 2024, to offer an explanation of how that program would work. The details are buried near the end of a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindowsexperience\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F31\u002Fhow-to-prepare-for-windows-10-end-of-support-by-moving-to-windows-11-today\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elong-winded post\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that sings the praises of Windows 11 and encourages business customers to upgrade or buy new PCs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you plan to keep using Windows 10, here's what you can expect to pay. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"57ad7387-224e-49af-9011-540edcda78d4\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch2\u003EBusiness customers\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBusiness customers will need to pay dearly to stick with Windows 10. A license for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is sold as a subscription. For the first year, the cost is $61. For year two, the price doubles, and it doubles again for year three. That Microsoft blog post doesn't do the math on those, probably because the total is uncomfortably high. A three-year ESU subscription will cost $61 + $122 + $244, for a total of $427 per PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhave-a-windows-10-pc-that-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F"\u003EHave a Windows 10 PC that can't be upgraded? You have 5 options\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program closely resembles what Microsoft offered for Windows 7's end-of-support date in 2020, although the Windows 10 price is 22% higher than the $350 total cost of that program, which started at $50 for year one.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDon't think you can game the system by jumping into the program after sitting out for a year or two. "ESUs are cumulative," Microsoft said, and you can't buy year two unless you've already paid for year one.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs was the case with Windows 7, Redmond really wants business customers to upgrade to Windows 11, which explains the high price tag. Microsoft's April announcements talk just as much about what you don't get with an ESU license as they do about the updates themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much will Windows 10 updates cost?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExtended Security Updates are not intended to be a long-term solution but rather a temporary bridge. ESUs do not include new features, non-security fixes, or design change requests. The ESU program does not extend technical support for Windows 10. Technical support is limited to the activation of the ESU licenses, installation of ESU monthly updates, and addressing issues that may have been caused due to an update itself. \t \t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d0226dab-b2c1-43b0-8e57-5be57ea1d30c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EEducation customers are getting off much easier. The rules are the same, but the price for the first year is $1. It doubles to $2 in the second year and doubles again to $4 in the third and final year, for a grand total of ... $7 per PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it\u002F"\u003EYou can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdministrators who want to get a head start can sign up for the first year of an ESU license as early as October 2024, one year before the actual end-of-support date.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\" data-hed=\"Education customers\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2ae42de3-4ee9-4a52-ad7d-fc8e49aed9e1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOn the page that announced details of the ESU program for commercial customers, a Microsoft spokesperson wrote that details and prices for consumers "will be shared at a later date" on the company's \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fend-of-support" target="_blank"\u003Econsumer end-of-support page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Six months later, those details are finally available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F"\u003EThe best Windows laptop you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConsumers will be able to sign up for a one-year ESU subscription for $30. That's roughly half what businesses will pay for that first year. That deal comes with two significant restrictions, however. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, it's available only for "personal use," a move that's obviously designed to discourage business customers from trying to get security updates at a discount. Second, the subscription can't be renewed after that first year. On October 25, 2026, security updates will stop for good on those consumer PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStill, the fact that Microsoft is even offering a consumer option is noteworthy. The Windows 7 ESU program was messy. It was \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fso-you-want-to-keep-running-windows-7-good-luck-with-that-small-businesses\u002F"\u003Enot exactly friendly to small businesses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and there was no option at all for consumers. The difference, of course, is that those customers had a straightforward option to upgrade their Windows 7 PCs to the successor OS, Windows 10. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-fix-that\u002F"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft says that ESU program enrollment for consumers will be available closer to the end of support date. It's unclear how many consumers will be willing to fork over $30, but the number of eligible PCs will be \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efrightfully large\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Consumers\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d558e088-706b-4f3a-b4b6-436e119b48b1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EBusinesses that use one of Microsoft's official cloud-based update management services, like Microsoft Intune and Windows AutoPatch, get a discount that takes the first year cost down to $45, but Microsoft doesn't specify what happens in the second and third years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fis-onedrive-moving-all-your-files-how-to-take-back-control-of-your-windows-storage-3-ways\u002F"\u003EIs OneDrive moving all your files? How to take back control of your Windows storage - 3 ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose solutions are mainly applicable to very large organizations that pay for Windows Enterprise edition licenses and manage them in the cloud. It's worth noting that the option applies only to devices owned by an organization; personal (BYOD) devices aren't eligible. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's also an option for businesses that sign up for Windows 365. Subscribers who access a Windows 11 Cloud PC on Windows 365 from a physical device running Windows 10 automatically get an ESU license for their Windows 10 PC. Similar discounts are available for devices running Azure Virtual Desktop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft also says it plans to offer discounts to nonprofit organizations, but details aren't available on that yet either.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What discounts are available for Windows 10 updates?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ENote: This post was originally published in April 2024. The most recent update was on October 31, 2024.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-10-31 17:47:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Businesses can expect to pay a shockingly high sum for Windows 10 Extended Security Updates. Educators will fare better. And for the first time, consumers can sign up - but there's a catch.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"1d99bafb-0d67-49e6-a44f-c0d81ed99e0f",image:{id:"3fdfd730-f820-461b-ae32-4ec0ddfd2e7b",filename:"gettyimages-1147839022.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-10-31 17:43:31",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"money signs",credits:"MirageC\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F31\u002F3fdfd730-f820-461b-ae32-4ec0ddfd2e7b\u002Fgettyimages-1147839022.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"cant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Can't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4fad2a75-66a6-4204-a2db-28b7e0946989\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"natatravel\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"TPM chip\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1485827984.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"2127\" data-image-height=\"1409\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen Microsoft introduced \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in 2021, its new, stringent hardware compatibility test included checking for the presence of a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) -- specifically, one that meets the TPM 2.0 standard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, what is a TPM, and why does Windows insist that you need one? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe simple answer is that a TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor, a dedicated microcontroller designed to handle security-related tasks and manage \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbeyond-passwords-4-key-security-steps-youre-probably-forgetting\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eencryption keys\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in a way that minimizes the ability of attackers to break into a system. Windows uses that hardware for a variety of security-related features, including Secure Boot, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwheres-your-bitlocker-recovery-key-how-to-save-a-copy-before-the-next-windows-meltdown\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBitLocker\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and Windows Hello.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the full answer is, as with anything related to computer security, slightly more complicated.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe TPM architecture is defined by an international standard (formally known as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.iso.org\u002Fstandard\u002F66510.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EISO\u002FIEC 11889\u003C\u002Fa\u003E), which was created by the Trusted Computing Group more than 20 years ago. The standard deals with how different cryptographic operations are implemented, with an emphasis on \"integrity protection, isolation and confidentially.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyes-you-can-upgrade-that-old-pc-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-these-readers-proved-it\u002F\"\u003EYes, you can upgrade that old PC to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no. These readers proved it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA TPM can be implemented as a discrete chip soldered onto a computer motherboard, or it can be implemented within the firmware of a PC chipset or the CPU itself, as Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm have done over the past decade. If you use a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-create-linux-virtual-machine-with-virtualbox\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Evirtual machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you can even build a virtual TPM chip into it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, does your PC have a TPM? If it was designed in 2016 and sold with Windows preinstalled, the answer is almost certainly yes. That's the year Microsoft began requiring manufacturers to ship PCs with TPM 2.0 available and enabled by default. Intel CPUs from that era include a TPM 2.0 that's embedded in firmware (Intel calls this feature Platform Trust Technology, or PTT). Also in 2016, AMD began incorporating a firmware-based TPM 2.0 called fTPM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your PC is older than that, it still might contain a TPM. Intel started including the feature in its 4th Generation Core processors (Haswell) in 2014, but in general that technology was only available and enabled in PCs built for the business market. Computers built in 2013 or earlier might include discrete TPMs that are separate from the CPU; for the most part, pre-2014 TPMs followed the TPM 1.2 standard, which is not officially supported by Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstill-have-a-windows-10-pc-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F\"\u003EStill have a Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options before support ends next year\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo complicate things even more, your PC might have a TPM that's disabled in the BIOS or firmware settings. That's certain to be the case on a PC that's been configured to use a Legacy BIOS instead of UEFI. You can check the configuration of your Windows PC by using the System Information tool (Msinfo32.exe).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA TPM is meant to be a super-secure location for processing cryptographic operations and storing the private keys that make strong encryption possible. The TPM works with the Windows \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-has-advanced-hardware-security-heres-how-to-get-it-in-windows-10-today\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESecure Boot feature\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for example, which verifies that only signed, trusted code runs when the computer starts up. If someone tries to tamper with the operating system -- to add a rootkit, for example -- Secure Boot prevents the changed code from executing. (Chromebooks have a similar feature called Verified Boot, which also uses the TPM to ensure that a system hasn't been tampered with.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe TPM also enables biometric authentication with Windows Hello, and it holds the BitLocker keys that encrypt the contents of a Windows system disk, making it nearly impossible for an attacker to break that encryption and access your data without authorization. For a detailed technical explanation, you can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fsecurity\u002Finformation-protection\u002Ftpm\u002Fhow-windows-uses-the-tpm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eread this primer\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F7-password-rules-to-live-by-in-2024-according-to-security-experts\u002F\"\u003E7 password rules to live by in 2024, according to security experts\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 10 and Windows 11 initialize and take ownership of the TPM as part of the installation process. You don't need to do anything special to set up or use a TPM beyond making sure it's enabled for use by the PC. And it's not just a Windows feature. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-linux-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELinux PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-the-internet-of-things-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-iot-right-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIoT\u003C\u002Fa\u003E devices can initialize and use a TPM as well. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple devices use a different hardware design called the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.apple.com\u002Fguide\u002Fsecurity\u002Fsecure-enclave-sec59b0b31ff\u002Fweb\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESecure Enclave\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which performs some of the same cryptographic operations as a TPM, and also provides secure storage of sensitive user data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe extra level of security that a TPM enforces in tamper-resistant hardware is a very good thing. To see details about the TPM in your Windows PC, open Device Manager and look under the Security Devices heading.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-debloating-windows-is-a-bad-idea-and-what-to-do-instead\u002F\"\u003EWhy 'debloating' Windows is a bad idea (and what to do instead)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn a PC running Windows 10 that includes any version of TPM, you can upgrade to Windows 11 by making a simple change to the registry. If your PC doesn't include a TPM, you'll need to use an unofficial hack to bypass the hardware compatibility checks and install Windows 11. The easiest way to do this is with the help of a free, open-source utility called Rufus. For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published on January 18, 2024, and last updated on September 25, 2024. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-09-25 22:56:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Windows 11 officially requires a Trusted Platform Module. Here's what it does and how you can work around that requirement if your old PC doesn't have one.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6240d28b-f82d-41df-9cf0-9a91cec530f7",image:{id:"4fad2a75-66a6-4204-a2db-28b7e0946989",filename:"gettyimages-1485827984.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-09-25 22:52:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"TPM chip",credits:"natatravel\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F25\u002F4fad2a75-66a6-4204-a2db-28b7e0946989\u002Fgettyimages-1485827984.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2127,height:1409,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"why-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8dd991da-a62c-4f64-9a8c-fa3e9e199ecb\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jupiterimages\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"roller coaster\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-78059264.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"2122\" data-image-height=\"1412\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDo you like roller coaster rides? Do you crave those \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcoasterpedia.net\u002Fwiki\u002FSteepest_roller_coaster_drops\"\u003Esteep drops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E where the car plunges more than a thousand feet at an insane angle, subjecting your body to a g-force of 3.5?  Do you squirm with anticipation as the car clack-clack-clacks slowly up to the top and then hurtles down, leaving your stomach behind as you speed to the bottom?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fevery-product-microsoft-unveiled-at-its-surface-and-ai-event-today\u002F\"\u003EEvery product Microsoft unveiled at its Surface and AI event\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuckle up as we go for a decade-long ride with Microsoft's Surface division, which has delivered a performance worthy of a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcoasterpedia.net\u002Fwiki\u002FEuro-Fighter\"\u003EGerstlauer Euro-Fighter 1000\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. After an inauspicious beginning in 2012, the division began growing steadily. Back in 2018, I wrote a recap of that progress, noting that the division had brought in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsurface-by-the-numbers-how-microsoft-successfully-reinvented-the-pc\u002F\"\u003Etotal revenue of nearly $5 billion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo one in their right mind would have placed a bet on that number five years ago. At the end of FY2013, Microsoft had to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-900-million-surface-rt-write-down-how-did-this-happen\u002F\"\u003Etake a one-time writedown of $900 million\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to account for the spectacular \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F5-big-things-that-baffle-me-about-microsoft-surface-rt\u002F\"\u003Efailure of its Surface RT\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany companies would have given up at that point, but not one run by Steve Ballmer, who famously described Microsoft's approach as \"long-term, tenacious, and partner-centric.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs he once told an arena full of partners, \"We don't go home. We just keep coming and coming and coming. Tenacious, tenacious, tenacious.\" (As Ashlee Vance noted when transcribing those remarks for the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbits.blogs.nytimes.com\u002F2009\u002F07\u002F14\u002Fsteve-ballmer-shouts-microsoft-will-keep-on-coming\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003ENew York Times\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \"The man likes to talk in threes.\")\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, while \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fworldwide-pc-shipments-effectively-flat-in-q1-2018\u002F\"\u003EPC shipments overall have been flat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or down for the past four years, the Surface business has been growing at a compound annual rate of better than 22 percent a year.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface division hit its high point at the end of FY22, bringing in nearly $7 billion of revenue for Microsoft. And then… Well, see for yourself.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"07ceacbd-5b97-4232-98e6-2be6d00a6e85\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERevenue for 2024 is projected based on y\u002Fy decline of 24%&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Chart by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"surface-revenue-2014-24\" data-image-filename=\"surface-revenue-2014-24.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"1653\" data-image-height=\"993\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's a pretty spectacular collapse in FY2023. (Note that the number for FY2024 in the chart above is a projection.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETeasing those numbers out of Microsoft's financial reports was a bit of a challenge. The company stopped reporting actual Surface revenue numbers in FY22, instead choosing to disclose changes from the previous year's revenue in percentage terms. To make comparisons even murkier, the company in 2023 changed the \"Surface revenue\" line item to \"Devices revenue growth,\" folding in revenue it receives from sales of keyboards, mice, and other peripherals.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-quietly-announced-two-products-today-that-business-users-will-love\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft quietly announced two products that business users will love\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven with all that massaging, the picture for FY2023 (which ended on July 30, 2023) was grim. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmicrosoft.gcs-web.com\u002Fstatic-files\u002Fe2931fdb-9823-4130-b2a8-f6b8db0b15a9\"\u003EIn its annual report\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Microsoft noted \"Devices revenue decreased $1.8 billion or 24% as elevated channel inventory levels continued to drive additional weakness beyond declining PC demand.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOr, to put it another way: The PC market is going through a major correction right now, and Surface is doing even worse than its rivals.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe carnage isn't over. In the Microsoft FY23 \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fview.officeapps.live.com\u002Fop\u002Fview.aspx?src=https:\u002F\u002Fc.s-microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002FCMSFiles\u002FTranscriptFY23Q4.docx?version=f64b33fa-1c41-799b-70cf-cc2cd098555b\"\u003Efourth quarter earnings conference call\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Satya Nadella and his team projected that Devices revenue for the quarter ending September 30, 2023 would continue plunging:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn Devices, revenue should decline in the mid-30s due to the overall PC market and adjustments we made in our portfolio with an increased focus on our higher margin premium products.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's hard to imagine that things will get much better before the end of 2023. The most successful Surface products are the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, both of which are more than a year old. The \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-laptop-studio-2-hands-on-review\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface Laptop Studio 2\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a high-priced machine made for a niche market, was in the spotlight at this year's fall Surface event in New York City and isn't likely to be a runaway hit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003EThe best Windows laptop you can buy: Dell, Samsung, Lenovo, and more\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the chart above, I've projected what the Surface revenue number might look like if the company rebounds to a loss of only 24%, repeating this year's performance. Basically, they're back to what the business was in 2016 and 2017, which is… not good?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt Microsoft, a division needs to be able to bring in $10 billion of revenue per year to be considered a \"needle mover.\" Surface once looked like it was on its way to building that kind of steady, growing business. It doesn't anymore.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMaybe this explains the sudden departure of Windows & Devices boss Panos Panay, just days ahead of the company's fall Surface showcase event. His portfolio had expanded dramatically in recent years to cover not just Surface devices but also Windows 11. A \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.businessinsider.com\u002Fwhy-microsoft-windows-surface-panos-panay-left-for-amazon-2023-9\"\u003Ereport in Business Insider\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, quoting \"anonymous insiders,\" says Panay was \"unhappy with recent changes in the Windows + Devices division,\" including \"significant cuts to simplify the Surface business ... and focus more on Microsoft's hits rather than the more experimental devices the company funded in flush times.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Surface Pro and Surface Laptop lines are undoubtedly the \"hits\" referred to in that report. Notably, both products are relatively mature designs whose physical appearance has barely changed in recent years. The addition of Thunderbolt 4 support in the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Laptop 5 was welcome, but otherwise, most upgrades in these product lines have been simple spec bumps, not the sort of thing to win over new customers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-windows-10-too-popular-for-its-own-good\u002F\"\u003EIs Windows 10 too popular for its own good?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA pair of high-profile flops probably didn't help anyone making the case for Surface in front of Microsoft management. The Surface Duo, a dual-screen phone powered by Android, was uncomfortably expensive and just plain odd. I bought one shortly after its release in 2019 and returned it six weeks later. (For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffive-reasons-why-i-returned-my-surface-duo\u002F\"\u003E\"Five reasons why I returned my Surface Duo.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd then there was the dual-screen Surface Neo, which was announced at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhands-on-at-surface-event-new-direction-or-more-of-the-same-yes-and-yes\u002F\"\u003Ethe same 2019 event\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as the Surface Duo and became one of the first casualties of the pandemic the next year. It never shipped, and neither did the operating system it was supposed to run, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10x-everything-you-need-to-know-about-microsofts-windows-10-variant\u002F\"\u003EWindows 10X\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. If you've forgotten about that project it's understandable. Hey, a lot happened in 2020! But the bottom line is it was supposed to be a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10x-microsofts-cloud-powered-chrome-os-competitor-inches-closer\u002F\"\u003E\"cloud-powered\" competitor to ChromeOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECEO Satya Nadella has not been shy about pulling the plug on products that aren't pulling their weight. Maybe that will ultimately be the fate of Surface, but I doubt it. In fact, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fre-inventing-windows-from-nt-to-10x-microsofts-never-ending-quest-for-the-better-os\u002F\"\u003Esomething I wrote about Windows 10X back when it was first announced\u003C\u002Fa\u003E seems like it might be relevant today.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 10X is debuting as the native operating system for a new PC form factor, with multiple screens. But its core innovation is the ability to run traditional Windows desktop apps in secure containers that are isolated from the core of the operating system. It's easy to imagine this technology migrating to more traditional form factors before long.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA dual-screen PC is an expensive gimmick and unlikely to become a mass market hit. That's why the project was killed and why it's unlikely to ever come back. But imagine if you can accomplish many of the same goals of the Windows 10X project on traditional hardware, like (say) an inexpensive laptop. At that point you have a credible competitor to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-chromebook-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGoogle's Chromebook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and possibly a way to once again make Windows relevant in schools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-windows-11\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or Windows 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat is apparently what Microsoft has been working on for the past three years with its CorePC project, which might ship next year (in whole or in part) under the Windows 12 moniker. If you need an explainer, Zac Bowden at Windows Central can fill you in on this \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowscentral.com\u002Fsoftware-apps\u002Fwindows-11\u002Fmicrosoft-windows-corepc-modern-platform-hudson-valley-2024\"\u003E\"modular and customizable variant of Windows.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy sources tell me CorePC will allow Microsoft to finally deliver a version of Windows that truly competes with Chromebooks in OS footprint, performance, and capabilities. A version of Windows that only runs Edge, web apps, Android apps (via Project Latte) and Office apps, designed for low-end education PCs is already in early testing internally, and is roughly 60-75% smaller than Windows 11 SE.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeanwhile, at the \"high-margin, premium device\" end of the PC spectrum, Microsoft desperately needs a way to compete with Apple's M2-powered MacBook line (and Macs based on more powerful M3 processors should be on the shelves in Apple Stores next year). Unfortunately, getting performance and battery life that are competitive with Apple's flagship products is going to require Arm-based processors, and right now the entire PC industry is waiting for Qualcomm to ship its next-generation Nuvia SoCs. This is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-on-arm-can-microsoft-deliver-a-silicon-surprise-before-years-end\u002F\"\u003Ewhat I wrote on the subject\u003C\u002Fa\u003E a few months ago:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs pretty much every rational observer has noted, Windows on Arm is far behind Apple, at least using Qualcomm's current SoC designs. But they could play catch-up, and maybe even leapfrog their Cupertino competition, with a successful launch of the Nuvia-based Oryon architecture, especially if they can build some custom Windows features into it. (The SQ3-based Surface Pro 9 has a couple of nifty AI-based features not found in its Intel sibling, including eye-tracking and background noise reduction for video calls.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's probably why Microsoft didn't have anything to say about upcoming iterations of Surface Pro or Surface Laptop at its recent hardware event. Another spec bump won't move the needle at all. But an Arm-powered device that gets double the battery life of x86-based hardware, has a neural processing unit for advanced AI tasks, and can run x86 apps in secure containers? That might be worth waiting for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-went-hands-on-with-microsofts-new-ai-features-and-these-5-are-the-most-useful\u002F\"\u003EI went hands-on with Microsoft's new AI features, and these 5 are the most useful\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFighting off determined competitors on the low end and the high end at the same time is hard enough, and the challenge is worse when you need to do it in the face of budget cuts and the loss of a key leader. Get ready for another ride on the Surface roller coaster.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-09-22 20:34:35",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"After nearly a decade of steady growth, revenue from Microsoft's Surface devices plunged in 2023, and next year doesn't look much better. Fasten your seatbelts.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"850aa856-f0b0-419b-9219-8d4a84e48770",image:{id:"8dd991da-a62c-4f64-9a8c-fa3e9e199ecb",filename:"gettyimages-78059264.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-09-22 19:00:30",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"surface-revenue-2014-24",credits:"Chart by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERevenue for 2024 is projected based on y\u002Fy decline of 24% \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F22\u002F8dd991da-a62c-4f64-9a8c-fa3e9e199ecb\u002Fgettyimages-78059264.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2122,height:1412,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^PCs",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"can-microsoft-recover-from-the-collapse-of-its-surface-business",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Can Microsoft recover from the collapse of its Surface business?",topic:{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1050fa4d-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"google",name:"Google",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4bbc83d6-56fd-416f-844b-bcbe62a8d805\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"DjelicS\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"cat working on a laptop\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-916511842-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"2119\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're old enough to remember Windows 95, you probably remember the original \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FMicrosoft_PowerToys\"\u003EWindows PowerToys\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a collection of utilities developed by the Windows 95 shell team and distributed free of charge to the community. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe collection's most famous free tool, TweakUI, enabled you to fine-tune the Windows interface by pointing and clicking, with the utility writing your changes to the Windows Registry. (For those who want to go a little deeper, the original author of TweakUI, Raymond Chen, wrote \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdevblogs.microsoft.com\u002Foldnewthing\u002F20050202-00\u002F?p=36543\"\u003Ean amusing history\u003C\u002Fa\u003E of how the project came to be.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Feverything-were-expecting-at-microsofts-surface-and-ai-september-event-bing\u002F\"\u003EEverything we're expecting at Microsoft's Surface and AI September event\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn 2019, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fin-nostalgic-move-microsoft-brings-back-powertoys-for-windows-10\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft revived the PowerToys brand\u003C\u002Fa\u003E name for a line of new utilities made for Windows 10. The initial product release was... how do I say this kindly? Well, it was as modest as you would expect of something labeled version 0.11.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour years later, that situation has changed radically. The current version (0.72.0) is still labeled a preview, but it now consists of a curated collection of open-source utilities that run on all supported versions of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 10 and 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, with an easy-to-use frontend for managing them all. The whole thing is hosted on GitHub, with distributions available via the Microsoft Store or the Winget package manager. There's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fpowertoys\u002F\"\u003Eofficial documentation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on the Microsoft Learn site, too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003EThe best Windows laptops: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe PowerToys app includes two pages: a Welcome dialog that provides help on each tool in the suite, and a Settings page, shown below, that lets you configure options for each tool:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"91b5a5fa-0fcd-4d1b-ab63-eaccef658dc0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EUse this page to enable and configure each utility in the PowerToys collection.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"powertoy-settings\" data-image-filename=\"powertoy-settings.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1354\" data-image-height=\"1036\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, after a few years of development, Microsoft's new PowerToys are ... well, pretty great. And you don't need to be a developer to take advantage of them. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-keep-track-of-your-mouse-pointer-with-the-powertoys-mouse-utilities\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to keep track of your mouse pointer with the PowerToys Mouse Utilities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA significant number of these utilities could easily be filed under the \"Annoyance remover\" heading, while others are more comprehensive in their effect. This post highlights some of the individual utilities that have become an indispensable part of my workflow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Keyboard Manager\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f5fb603c-b7a6-4714-9ec3-e204ab067d2a\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter disabling the Caps Lock key, I no longer have to worry about SUDDEN ALL CAPS OUTBURSTS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"keyboard-manager-powertoy\" data-image-filename=\"keyboard-manager-powertoy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"712\" data-image-height=\"910\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConfession time: I am a very sloppy typist. My fingers often stray from the home row and I regularly strike the Caps Lock key when I'm aiming for Shift or Tab, which in turn results in me typing sOMETHING LIKE THIS AND THEN CURSING as I erase and retype that part of the text. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-the-microsoft-365-mobile-app-to-work-with-your-documents-and-files\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to use the Microsoft 365 mobile app to work with your documents and files\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor me, Keyboard Manager is worth the price of admission all on its own, thanks to its ability to remap or disable any key. I've also remapped two keys I literally never use, Pause and Scroll Lock, so that they work with Windows shortcuts for the Quick Link menu (Windows key + X), and the third pinned app on my taskbar (Windows key + 3), which in my case is the PowerToys Settings app.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. FancyZones\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"32c52db1-4e4c-4dcb-a6d0-39675cce100a\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe options here take Windows Snap to a whole new level.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"fancyzones-powertoy\" data-image-filename=\"fancyzones-powertoy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1920\" data-image-height=\"1150\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI am a huge fan of the Windows Snap feature, which allows you to arrange windows on the screen in predefined layouts, \"snapping\" them into position. This feature is an ideal option for anyone who needs to work with multiple apps without constantly switching between windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-the-new-bing-and-how-its-different-from-chatgpt\u002F\"\u003EHow to use Bing Chat (and how it's different from ChatGPT)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFancyZones supercharges the Windows Snap feature, giving you the ability to create custom layouts and span zones across multiple monitors. If you've got a big enough display, you can create a multi-zone dashboard that would impress even the most jaded Wall Street analyst with the most expensive Bloomberg Terminal subscription.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor step-by-step instructions on how to use this somewhat intimidating but undeniably powerful tool, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fhow-to-use-the-free-powertoys-fancyzones-in-windows-and-why-you-should\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELance Whitney's guide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Text Extractor\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"00a16508-b889-4ab9-ab3a-439527416847\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you need to grab text from a picture or a scanned page, here's your new best friend.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"text-extractor-powertoy\" data-image-filename=\"text-extractor-powertoy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"834\" data-image-height=\"802\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESometimes you need to grab the text from a picture, so you can paste it into Word, a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgoogle-docs-offers-new-ai-powered-proofreading-tool\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGoogle Doc\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, or an email message -- and that's what this clever little tool does so well. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUse the activation shortcut (by default, that's Windows key + Shift + T, although you can change it), then select a section of the image containing the text you want: a scanned page from a magazine or book or a legal filing, say, or a picture of a sign describing a historical marker. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-build-your-own-ai-chatbot-with-this-drag-and-drop-tool\u002F\"\u003EYou can build your own AI chatbot with this drag-and-drop tool\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe utility uses OCR to place the text it finds on the Clipboard. You avoid the tedium of retyping, although I recommend you proofread the automatically recognized text carefully, especially for images that are less than crisp.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. Quick Accent\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fc8fe6d3-7a44-4e46-9360-2789af62109e\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EUse this tool to quickly enter characters with tildes, accents, and other diacritical marks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"quick-accent-powertoy-2\" data-image-filename=\"quick-accent-powertoy-2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"834\" data-image-height=\"1262\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're even occasionally multilingual, you probably already know how tedious it is to type characters with tildes, accents, and diacritical marks using the standard English (U.S.) keyboard layout. But with this utility running in the background, it's much easier. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHold down a key and then tap the Quick Accent shortcut key (by default, this is the right or left arrow, or the spacebar). That action displays a pop-up window containing all available variants for the character you selected. Keep holding down the letter you want to type and then tap the shortcut key repeatedly; let go of the letter key when you get to the variation you want to use. This technique works with numbers, too, where you get options to create a subscript or superscript. Hold down the hyphen key and use Quick Accent to choose from a very wide array of dashes and tildes. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-moment-i-realized-chatgpt-plus-was-a-game-changer-for-my-business\u002F\"\u003EThe moment I realized ChatGPT Plus was a game-changer for my business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe technique takes a bit of practice. However, once you master it, you can un-memorize all those alt key codes you used to depend on, but can't use anymore because your laptop doesn't have a dedicated number keypad.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. Awake\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"346cbbdb-be7a-4237-bb77-009eb0d3bead\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you want your PC to stay awake, so you can finish a lengthy download or compile, use this PowerToy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"awake-powertoy\" data-image-filename=\"awake-powertoy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"714\" data-image-height=\"774\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHas this ever happened to you? You've started a lengthy task -- downloading a really big file over a slow connection, for example. You want to step away from the PC, but you're worried that Windows is going to put your PC to sleep, interrupting the download and forcing you to start over when you get back. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F7-advanced-chatgpt-prompt-writing-tips-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003E7 advanced ChatGPT prompt-writing tips you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's where Awake can help. Flip this switch to the On position and walk away confident that Windows won't get in the way. You can make the keep-awake period indefinite (until you change it) or set a predetermined interval after which it's safe for Windows to put the PC to sleep. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E6. Peek\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5bb859d0-de7a-4102-af73-3363ab6f6c32\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EHere's the Windows answer to QuickLook spacebar previews on MacOS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"peek-powertoy\" data-image-filename=\"peek-powertoy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"834\" data-image-height=\"782\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you've \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbuying-a-used-mac-laptop-how-to-avoid-scams-and-find-the-best-deals\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eused a Mac\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and wished your Windows PC could preview files with a tap of the spacebar like Quick Look on MacOS, here's your answer. With the Peek PowerToy enabled on a Windows PC, you can select a file in File Explorer and then use the shortcut Ctrl + Spacebar. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat process opens the preview in a separate WinUI window. Unlike on a Mac, the preview window doesn't automatically close when you return to File Explorer; tap Escape to clear it from the screen. If that behavior bothers you, you can change it in settings. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E7. Mouse Utilities\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3eba75fc-cfa9-4630-a38e-21ec58c9bf30\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ECan't find that mouse pointer? Just tap the left Ctrl key twice.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"mouse-utilities-powertoy\" data-image-filename=\"mouse-utilities-powertoy.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"834\" data-image-height=\"1010\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis page contains a slew of useful little tricks to make it easier to use a mouse. The Find My Mouse feature, for example, comes to the rescue if you lose track of the mouse pointer. To highlight the missing cursor, tap the left Ctrl key twice. You can also change this activation method to a shake of the mouse if you'd rather not memorize yet another keyboard shortcut. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-keep-track-of-your-mouse-pointer-with-the-powertoys-mouse-utilities\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to keep track of your mouse pointer with the PowerToys Mouse utilities\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis feature-packed page also includes Mouse Highlighter options that highlight each mouse click -- that option is especially useful for anyone who regularly leads PC training sessions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOther stuff\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm pretty confident that I've left out one of your favorite PowerToys. If you regularly have to do bulk file-management projects, you're probably a fan of PowerRename. I know people who swear by File Locksmith, which lets you see what process is preventing you from accessing or modifying a file. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOr maybe you're a network-savvy Windows geek who finds Hosts File Editor a super-easy way of managing a local hosts file. And then there's Paste as Plain Text, which passes the Truth in Labeling test with a perfect score.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBottom line: if you use Windows, I guarantee you'll find something interesting and useful in the Microsoft PowerToys collection, and you don't need to be a coder to appreciate it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-09-01 14:11:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft's collection of free, open-source utilities for Windows is packed with productivity enhancers and annoyance removers that you didn't know you needed.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"c81c97d0-f8e5-46fc-80dc-021e21437672",image:{id:"4bbc83d6-56fd-416f-844b-bcbe62a8d805",filename:"gettyimages-916511842-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-09-01 13:53:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"cat working on a laptop",credits:"DjelicS\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F01\u002F4bbc83d6-56fd-416f-844b-bcbe62a8d805\u002Fgettyimages-916511842-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2119,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"my-7-favorite-microsoft-powertoys-utilities-that-every-windows-pc-user-should-know",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"My 7 favorite Microsoft PowerToys: Utilities every Windows PC user should try",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"371a7418-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"sjvn",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Steven",lastName:"Vaughan-Nichols",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e2171bd1-84f6-4ca8-9801-2abdeb61a365",filename:"steven-vaughan-nichols.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 18:47:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe2171bd1-84f6-4ca8-9801-2abdeb61a365\u002Fsteven-vaughan-nichols.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols is a freelance writer and technology analyst. Besides ZDNET, he works with Foundry (Formerly IDG Communications), The Register, The New Stack, and Cathey Communications. He does not own stocks or other investments in any technology company.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"700b8cf4-b7e9-496d-9664-85e5d7f2b390\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook RGB Keyboard\" data-image-filename=\"dsc03026.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F03\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"6000\" data-image-height=\"3376\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the years, ChromeOS has become quite popular. After all, most people these days really don't need anything more than a web browser to access their work. Software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications such as Microsoft 365, Google Workplace, Slack, and Zoom, for example, are what most workers need. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStill, there's always that one Windows application companies need, which keeps businesses using Windows. But now, the software virtualization company Cameyo, in partnership with Google, has unveiled its newest \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcameyo.com\u002Fvirtual-app-delivery\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EVirtual App Delivery (VAD)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which enables you to seamlessly run your Windows applications alongside Chrome applications on your Chromebooks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Flaptop-deals\u002F\"\u003EThe best laptop deals in August 2023: MacBook, Chromebook, 2-in-1 sales\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is not a virtual desktop play. As Naveen Viswanatha, Google's Head of Product for ChromeOS Solutions, said, \"While many organizations previously relied on virtual desktop solutions like VDI and DaaS to deliver their legacy software to end users, many are struggling with the significant overhead caused by delivering full virtual desktops In today's cloud-first world, users just need simple & secure access to their apps in a seamless way that optimizes their productivity. That's where ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo comes in.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith this new built-in ChromeOS service, you can run what Google calls \"legacy apps\" on any Chromebook. There, they will appear as Progressive Web Apps (PWA), Microsoft's own cloud-based approach for applications. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn recent years, Microsoft has focused on moving \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.computerworld.com\u002Farticle\u002F3704148\u002Fthe-windows-desktop-is-dying.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows to the cloud\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. That works if you have a fast internet connection, but it's expensive. The latest version of its Cloud PC, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-365\u002Ffrontline\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 365 Frontline\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. which is meant for retail, healthcare, hospitality, and other vertical industry employees, starts at \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"323fd6dc-77a5-45aa-a521-8155d7d2f9b6\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-365\u002Ffrontline\u002Fall-pricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$42 for three users per month\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. This entry-level configuration has two virtual CPUs, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. For a frontline service worker, that should be more than enough.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fhow-to-organize-your-google-drive-5-tips-and-tricks-to-know\u002F\"\u003EHow to organize your Google Drive: 5 tips and tricks to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead of requiring users to run a full remote Windows version, Cameyo streamlines the app delivery process. You only run the Windows application you need remotely. These Windows programs also incorporate file handling, clipboard support, and the ChromeOS file system. With VAD, your virtualized Windows applications merge with the ChromeOS environment.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis means, according to the Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG), VAD on ChromeOS can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcameyo.com\u002Fesg-economic-validation-report\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ereduce your Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by 54%\u003C\u002Fa\u003E compared to virtual desktops. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat 54% reduction in TCO takes into consideration the following, according to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.kron4.com\u002Fbusiness\u002Fpress-releases\u002Fein-presswire\u002F651073547\u002Fchromeos-enables-virtual-app-delivery-with-cameyo\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epress release\u003C\u002Fa\u003E:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E82% Reduction in Hardware Costs – ESG confirmed that combining savings related to ChromeOS IT costs and Cameyo infrastructure costs can save businesses 82% in total hardware costs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E75% Reduction in Licensing Costs – ChromeOS Virtual App Delivery with Cameyo provides access to applications on a per-named-user basis, helping companies reduce their licensing and application costs by enabling each user to access their apps on any device, without needing a license for each device. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E53% Reduction in Operational Costs – ESG research found that ChromeOS and Cameyo deliver a 53% reduction in operational costs by eliminating many of the tasks typically required to operate a virtual desktop, such as configuring applications for each desktop, provisioning, patching, and updating those devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBesides the cost savings, ChromeOS devices are more secure than Windows. You're safer running Windows apps remotely on ChromeOS than on a Windows PC. After all, ChromeOS has yet to fall victim to a ransomware attack. Windows, on the other hand, falls prey to ransomware every day. In addition, ChromeOS and Cameyo have implemented a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fzero-trust-and-cybersecurity-heres-what-it-means-and-why-it-matters\u002F\"\u003EZero-Trust model\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for greater security. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-attacks-broke-records-in-july-mainly-driven-by-this-one-group\u002F\"\u003ERansomware attacks broke records in July, mainly driven by this one group\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor years, Cameyo has offered this service as a ChromeOS add-on. Now, it's being integrated directly into ChromeOS under the name \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcameyo.com\u002Fchromeos-virtual-app-delivery\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChromeOS Virtual App Delivery\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. You won't have to add this service. It will come in a ChromeOS update arriving on your Chromebook soon. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to make the most of your Chromebooks and your Windows PC apps, you should check it out. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs Shannon Kalvar, IDC's Research Director of Virtual Client Computing, said, \"Secure, cloud-first operating systems and Virtual App Delivery (VAD) have become key enablers of an enterprise's digital operations and talent strategies. Combining Cameyo's VAD solution with ChromeOS devices results in a win-win scenario for both end users and IT. End users get seamless and productive work experiences from anywhere, and IT gets a more secure, flexible, and cost-effective solution that requires fewer IT resources to deploy and manage.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-08-24 15:31:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"This is not a virtual desktop play.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"5d2b1940-f672-4875-9c07-12ba4fbcf3a5",image:{id:"700b8cf4-b7e9-496d-9664-85e5d7f2b390",filename:"dsc03026.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-03-15 19:18:36",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Windows running on Chromebooks",credits:"June Wan\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Office for Windows with Word and PowerPoint apps running on Chrome OS in Parallels Desktop for Chromebook Enterprise.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F15\u002F700b8cf4-b7e9-496d-9664-85e5d7f2b390\u002Fdsc03026.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:6000,height:3376,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Enterprise Software",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"now-you-can-run-any-windows-app-on-your-chromebook-thanks-to-this-partnership",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Now you can run any Windows app on your Chromebook, thanks to this partnership",topic:{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1050fa4d-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"google",name:"Google",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11d72d67-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"virtualization",name:"Virtualization",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"8d600230-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Jack Wallen",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Jack",lastName:"Wallen",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"f03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899",filename:"jack-wallen.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:04:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Ff03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899\u002Fjack-wallen.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Jack Wallen is what happens when a Gen Xer mind-melds with present-day snark. Jack is a seeker of truth and a writer of words with a quantum mechanical pencil and a disjointed beat of sound and soul. An award-winning writer and novelist, Jack has been covering Linux, open-source, and other topics since the late 1990s for numerous publications such as ZDNET, CNET, TechRepublic, Linux.com, The New Stack, Linode, TechTarget, and Linux New Media. Jack's also written over 50 novels of fiction, at least one of which focuses on the Linux operating system. For more news about Jack Wallen, visit his website jackwallen.com.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f65d9f94-d593-41a5-8502-05dcf3ea0dfb\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe right tool for the task is a great way to approach your digital life.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"igorbondarenko\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"wrenches-gettyimages-904428020\" data-image-filename=\"wrenches-gettyimages-904428020.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F09\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver 20 years ago, I was a managing editor for a company and was charged with building Linux content for the site. At some point during that gig, I was told that I \u003Cem\u003Ehad \u003C\u002Fem\u003Eto use \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-windows-10-too-popular-for-its-own-good\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and a bevy of MS software.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI refused.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhy? Call it pride, stubbornness, or just the knowledge that my operating system of choice (Linux) was not only far superior to anything Microsoft produced, but it made my life a lot easier and I never had to worry about viruses or the dreaded \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-famous-blue-screen-of-death-gets-a-new-colour-in-windows-11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBlue Screen of Death\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-another-reason-why-linux-is-way-cooler-than-your-operating-system\u002F\"\u003EHere's another reason why Linux is way cooler than your operating system\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey fought me on that issue until I was written up. Soon after that, my position was downsized, which turned out to be a blessing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat whole affair also served to teach me a valuable lesson.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat I should have capitulated and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-why-windows-pcs-are-only-going-to-get-more-annoying\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ejust used Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E? \u003Cem\u003ENo. \u003C\u002Fem\u003EThe lesson was that the right tool for the right job is always the best route to go.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince then, I've made it a point to always evaluate what I'm using to ensure it's the best fit for the gig.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis manifested itself a second time about five years ago.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI was picked up by a publisher to write a book series. I've since been retained by that publisher and given free rein to write what I want. However, I very quickly discovered a serious problem when using \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fhow-to-install-the-latest-version-of-the-free-libreoffice-office-suite-on-linux\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELibreOffice\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to collaborate with my assigned editor. With 60k+ manuscripts, filled with comments and track changes, LibreOffice choked. Any time I would open a document with that application, it would come to a screeching halt and threaten to bring the operating system along for the bumpy ride. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI had to do something. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI tried to convince my editor to use \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgoogle-docs-offers-new-ai-powered-proofreading-tool\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGoogle Docs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but she refused because Word had been her tool of the trade for years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt wasn't my place to educate her or change her mind. My place was to get the job done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnter \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-collaborate-with-an-apple-pages-document-via-icloud\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple Pages\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. With Apple's office suite, those manuscripts didn't bring the system down. In fact, I very quickly found Pages to be more than capable of handling the job.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd so, I added MacOS and Apple Pages into my workflow. But that was the only reason I was using MacOS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUntil I discovered Final Cut Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinal-cut-pro-on-the-ipad-a-surprisingly-touching-experience\u002F\"\u003EFinal Cut Pro on the iPad: A surprisingly touching experience\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou see, I was creating all of my videos with OpenShot on Linux and the results were, sadly, not good. Since I already owned a MacBook Pro, I decided I'd take Final Cut Pro for a trial.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI was an instant convert.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFast forward to now and here are the operating systems I use and their purpose:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMacOS - book and video edits\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELinux - writing, graphic design, general web browsing, email, audio editing, graphic design, general usage\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAndroid - mobile\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELinux will always be my default OS because it's exponentially more flexible than any other OS, reliable, secure, and free. MacOS will most likely always be my go-to OS editing platform because it serves that purpose to perfection. Android is like the Linux of mobile operating systems, so it fits in with my modus operandi.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmy-idea-for-a-great-new-beginner-friendly-linux-distribution\u002F\"\u003EMy idea for a great new beginner-friendly Linux distribution\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is a lesson that most people could use. I cannot tell you how many people I know who struggle to get their operating system of choice to behave and function how they want. I know writers who have lost significant work because, out of the blue, Windows decided to restart for an update. I know Linux users who struggle to get professional-looking videos edited together with open-source tools. I know MacOS users who'd be better off not having to do everything Apple's way.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot every operating system is a good match for every task, workflow -- or even every personality. If you find yourself constantly struggling to get something done, the problem might very well be the operating system you've chosen. Even though most people spend the majority of their time within the confines of a web browser, the operating system they are running plays a very big role in how well that browser functions. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you find yourself in a constant battle with your computer, I would highly recommend you ask yourself what you want out of that operating system. Once you have the answer, you can prescribe the right OS to solve what ails you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-tool-is-my-new-favorite-way-to-monitor-and-manage-apps-on-the-linux-desktop\u002F\"\u003EThis tool is my new favorite way to monitor and manage apps on the Linux desktop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are my recommendations:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELinux - for those who want the most reliable, secure, and flexible operating system\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMacOS - for those who need to work with multi-media\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWindows - for those who require Windows-only software\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso, consider that you don't have to stick with just one OS. And if you have only one computer, consider adding a virtualization platform (such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-create-linux-virtual-machine-with-virtualbox\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EVirtualBox\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhats-new-in-parallels-desktop-19-the-best-way-to-run-windows-on-your-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EParallels\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) into the mix. If you use a MacBook Pro or iMac, you can add Linux or Windows as a virtual machine and work with both. My mix-and-match approach has paid off such that I never have problems getting my work done, being entertained, and staying connected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe right tool for the task is a great way to approach your digital life. I've been doing it for years and can attest it has made everything easier, more repeatable, and removed considerable stress from my life.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"26d1d292-1768-4c56-bd62-dbc463199bfa\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F26d1d292-1768-4c56-bd62-dbc463199bfa\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-09-06 18:07:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Linux, Windows, MacOS -- or how about all of the above? Most people stick with a single OS for work and personal use but years ago I discovered that the right tool for the right task is the best way to go.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"ad7c6c47-3c2c-4c09-9d8f-703be2b3259d",image:{id:"f65d9f94-d593-41a5-8502-05dcf3ea0dfb",filename:"wrenches-gettyimages-904428020.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-09-06 15:09:48",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"wrenches-gettyimages-904428020",credits:"igorbondarenko\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F06\u002Ff65d9f94-d593-41a5-8502-05dcf3ea0dfb\u002Fwrenches-gettyimages-904428020.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Linux",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"why-i-use-multiple-operating-systems-to-get-my-work-done",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Why I use multiple operating systems to get my work done",topic:{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"df75c005-715d-4ff8-82e7-88bbd1c4e6c3",slug:"operating-systems",name:"Operating Systems",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1d04fa8e-61b0-417a-9d9f-6e0fa119ba87\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"windows-11-desktop.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"windows-11-desktop.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1024\" data-image-height=\"576\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 is about to celebrate its first birthday and deliver its first big feature update. Based on my reading of the feedback from early adopters, though, I'm not sure how many people are going to show up for the party. You don't have to spend a lot of time in support forums and other community sites to hear a steady stream of criticism from Windows 11 haters.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd even those who don't actively \u003Cem\u003Ehate\u003C\u002Fem\u003E the changes Microsoft made in the Windows user interface still have plenty to complain about.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis isn't a new phenomenon, of course. Every new version of Windows brings out its share of negative reactions from people who wonder why Microsoft felt it necessary to change things up for no obvious reason. Windows 11, however, seems to have kicked that reaction up to, uh … 11, especially with the decision to remove some features that power users took for granted.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that there are workarounds for many of the annoyances that have inspired the loudest complaints. In addition, there's a thriving community of developers building utilities to restore the features Microsoft took away.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe root of the problem is Microsoft's decision in Windows 11 to discard a huge amount of legacy code and rewrite key features, including the taskbar, the Start menu, and File Explorer. The old code in many cases dated back to the Windows 95 era, and I am sure there are program managers who have agonized over PowerPoint decks to explain just why those rewrites make sense from an architectural point of view.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut still...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThere's a shortcut for that  \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn some cases, the fix for common annoyances is to learn a keyboard shortcut. Are you bugged by File Explorer's new, streamlined shortcut menus, which require an extra click to get to the complete menu? There's a shortcut for that: Hold down the Shift key as you right-click.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd what about the decision to remove the ribbon from File Explorer? That makes it more difficult to show or hide the Detail pane and the Preview pane, which are now buried three menus deep: View > Show > Details Pane\u002FPreview Pane.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's a shortcut for that, too: Alt+P to show or hide the Preview pane, and Alt+Shift+P to do the same with the Details pane. After you've used those shortcuts a few times, muscle memory takes over.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd no, you can't right-click the taskbar to open Task Manager anymore. But (you guessed it) there's a shortcut for that: Ctrl+Shift+Esc. Or you can right-click the Start button and use the Task Manager shortcut on the Quick Link menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDo you find the new widgets feature annoying? It's easy enough to hide them. Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and flip the Widgets switch to the Off position. (You can always make the Widgets pane appear by using its keyboard shortcut: Windows key + W.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can't get used to the taskbar and Start button being in the center of the screen, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-how-to-move-the-start-button-back-to-where-it-belongs\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eyou can move the them back to the left side\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut some Windows 11 annoyances don't have an easy fix. If you want to move the taskbar to the top of the display or snap it to either side, you're not going to find a solution in the official Settings app. That's where those third-party apps come in handy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThird-party solutions\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the right tools, you can undo Microsoft's changes and turn the Windows 11 interface into something more familiar. We can recommend these four options, two of which are completely free: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fvalinet\u002FExplorerPatcher\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EExplorerPatcher\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: This free, open source project lets you replace the Windows 11 taskbar with the Windows 10 version, disable the Windows 11 context menu and command bar in File Explorer, and tweak the Start menu and search box. There's a full list of features in the project's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fvalinet\u002FExplorerPatcher\u002Fwiki\u002FAll-features\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewiki\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002FOpen-Shell\u002FOpen-Shell-Menu\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOpen Shell\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Longtime Windows users might remember a utility program called Classic Shell, whose original purpose was to restore the Start menu to Windows 8. That project was abandoned years ago, but a group of volunteers picked up the codebase and turned it into the free Open Shell. Its biggest claim to fame is the ability to restore the Windows 7 Start menu and the Windows Explorer toolbar. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.stardock.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fstart11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStart11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: This commercial product from Stardock offers a 30-day trial; after that, you'll need to pony up $6 for a single device or $15 for a license that works on up to five devices. You can replace the Windows 11 Start menu with its Windows 7 or Windows 10 version, move the taskbar to the top of the display and restore the taskbar context menu, and change a bunch of customization options. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.startallback.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStartAllBack\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: The bold promise of this commercial tool ($5 for a single device, with discounts for additional installations) is to \"unsweep [the] classic UI from under the rug.\" The list of tweaks includes the ability to drag and drop items onto taskbar icons, improvements to Start, File Explorer, and context menus, and \"lightweight styling and UI consistency.\" Like Start11, it offers a 30-day free trial. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIs there something on your Windows 11 annoyance list that isn't fixed with one of these tools? Leave a note in the comments and we'll see if we can find a solution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-12 20:32:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Every new Windows version comes with its own set of annoyances, but for some people, Windows 11 seems even more annoying than its predecessors. Fortunately, there are ways to make things work more like they did in Windows 10.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"91733626-079a-4288-81b1-49b456249c2c",image:{id:"1d04fa8e-61b0-417a-9d9f-6e0fa119ba87",filename:"windows-11-desktop.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-05-19 09:03:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Upset man fingers on keyboard",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F05\u002F19\u002F1d04fa8e-61b0-417a-9d9f-6e0fa119ba87\u002Fwindows-11-desktop.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1024,height:576,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"hate-windows-11-heres-how-to-make-it-work-more-like-windows-10",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Hate Windows 11? Here's how to make it work more like Windows 10",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2dadfeaf-f925-4014-bcb3-10111437c7dd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EIs there any way to retrieve the data before it's lost for good?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Upset man fingers on keyboard\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-626530416-man-on-keyboard2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"4296\" data-image-height=\"2417\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few years ago a reader sent me an urgent request for help. His ancient Windows laptop (about 8 or 9 years old) had been sitting on his office shelf gathering dust for a few years but was still usable. In fact, it contained the only copy of some crucial work files. Unfortunately, my correspondent had forgotten the password for his local account and everything he tried was incorrect. To make things worse, those \"login failed\" messages also included a warning that the system had detected signs of an imminent hard drive failure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIs there any way to get past that pesky password prompt and retrieve that data before it's irretrievably lost?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with most tech support questions, the answer is \"Maybe.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"5762da8d-c329-4f79-a304-b8283cabf0fb\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F5762da8d-c329-4f79-a304-b8283cabf0fb\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat data might be recoverable, but there's no guarantee. If the data wasn't encrypted, the task is simple. Use a boot disk to bypass Windows and then simply copy the data to an external USB drive from the command line (you'll need some mastery of DOS commands to pull that off). As an alternative, you can try disassembling the laptop, removing the hard drive, and using a USB-to-SATA adapter kit that can convert the internal drive to one that connects to a USB port. (\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8f3a0533-ee91-4cfc-b5f0-8c8ee699313b\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FSATA-Drive-Adapter-Converter-Power\u002Fdp\u002FB07PVX682Q\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"This StarTech adapter\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E will probably work, but you'll need to check compatibility with your drive to be sure.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour job is considerably more difficult if the drive is encrypted using BitLocker or the Windows Encrypted File System. Had you signed in with a Microsoft account, you could find the recovery key for that system drive by simply going to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fonedrive.com\u002Frecoverykey\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehttps:\u002F\u002Fonedrive.com\u002Frecoverykey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and copying the recovery key for that drive. But that option isn't available for a local account, and if you didn't back up the recovery key after encrypting the drive you're out of luck.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might be able to use an old trick that involves booting from a recovery drive and fooling Windows into opening an administrative Command Prompt window where you can reset your password.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELowell Heddings at the excellent How-To Geek website has a full set of instructions here: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.howtogeek.com\u002F96630\u002Fhow-to-reset-your-forgotten-Windows-password-the-easy-way\u002F\"\u003E\"How to Reset Your Forgotten Windows Password the Easy Way.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor those following along at home, this might be a good place to remind everyone that backing your important data files up to the cloud (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) is always a smart idea. And signing into your Windows PC with a Microsoft account also enables you to encrypt your data while still making it easy to recover from a lost password.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGood luck!\u003Cem\u003E  \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-10-17 14:28:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"That old laptop has been sitting on the shelf for ages. Now you realize it has your only backup copy of some important files, but you've forgotten the password. What can you do?",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"66df38b2-429a-43fb-b297-f5207c9ee444",image:{id:"2dadfeaf-f925-4014-bcb3-10111437c7dd",filename:"gettyimages-626530416-man-on-keyboard2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-06 16:22:08",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Upset man fingers on keyboard",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F06\u002F2dadfeaf-f925-4014-bcb3-10111437c7dd\u002Fgettyimages-626530416-man-on-keyboard2.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4296,height:2417,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-do-i-recover-data-from-an-old-laptop-if-ive-forgotten-the-password",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to recover data from an old laptop if you've forgotten the password",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0765e4d4-53d3-4b04-878c-c0532f646fc4",username:"Sabrina Ortiz",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Sabrina",lastName:"Ortiz",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"74b6bbc3-0c60-4d1f-9b02-7ee0f003bf11",filename:"screenshot-2024-03-27-at-4-28-37pm.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-03-27 23:36:25",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F03\u002F27\u002F74b6bbc3-0c60-4d1f-9b02-7ee0f003bf11\u002Fscreenshot-2024-03-27-at-4-28-37pm.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Sabrina Ortiz is an editor for ZDNET based in New York City. She covers technology news for ZDNET, specializing in generative AI. Sabrina graduated with a B.A. in Media and Journalism and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.",profile:c,title:"Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"121cb5ec-e34d-4da8-869d-fabbc4a680c2\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Copilot+PC\" data-image-filename=\"img-3259.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"4032\" data-image-height=\"2268\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-generative-ai-and-why-is-it-so-popular-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerative AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E evolves, tech giants are developing new solutions that make solving everyday problems a little faster and easier. Microsoft's latest \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fevery-copilot-pc-microsoft-just-announced-to-take-on-apples-m3-macbooks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot+ PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E announcement featured such AI solutions from the start to the end of the presentation, and I got a chance to test them all out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fevery-copilot-pc-microsoft-just-announced-to-take-on-apples-m3-macbooks\u002F\"\u003EEvery Copilot+ PC Microsoft just announced to take on Apple's M3 MacBooks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new AI features, including Recall, Cocreator in Paint, Live captions with live translation, Restyle in Photos, and Windows Studio Effects, are only available on Copilot+ PCs, which include the new \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"d7217561-b9b4-4116-823a-8f28e4d02dbf\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002Fsurface-laptop-7th-edition\u002F8tq2hq5xxkj9\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Laptop\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e7a3c513-cfa8-4a8c-b014-8c1d39744103\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fstore\u002Fconfigure\u002Fsurface-pro-11th-edition\u002F8n9t09p96cmj\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, as well as PCs from partners such as Lenovo, HP, and Dell.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy thoughts on the latest AI tools, their performance and usability, and more below. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Recall \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"07ef8459-e464-470e-b906-5c7c9977003f\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Recall\" data-image-filename=\"img-3283.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F21\" data-image-crop=\"3426x1925+255+59\" data-image-width=\"4032\" data-image-height=\"2268\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow often have you exited out of a tab, application, or project that you later wanted to access but couldn't find? Microsoft yesterday unveiled a new \"Recall\" feature for Copilot+ PCs that solves that exact issue, while taking things a step further.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith Recall, users can locate just about anything they've ever interacted with on their PC -- including files, images, text, and more -- simply by typing in what they want to locate and having their PC populate possible matches for them. You can also scroll back through possible timelines to see what and where you were browsing in the past.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-ai-features-coming-to-copilot-pcs-that-i-wish-were-on-my-macbook\u002F\"\u003E3 AI features coming to Copilot+ PCs that I wish were on my MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature works by storing a semantic index of your activity locally on your PC. If you are like me, your first thoughts were, \"Do I want \u003Cem\u003Eeverything\u003C\u002Fem\u003E stored?\" Microsoft addresses that concern by allowing users to personalize their snapshots, delete specified information, pause any tracking, and filter websites and apps that they don't want to be saved.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne example that a Microsoft member shared with me was when he asked his colleague if they were familiar with another colleague. To help show him what the other colleague looked like, he used the Recall feature to access a Zoom call he had with the individual. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Live captions with live translation\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"45dd8d18-e81b-4a33-8904-29a2e86eb732\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Live captions\" data-image-filename=\"img-3353.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"1037\" data-image-height=\"581\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs someone who grew up in a Spanish-speaking household, I am familiar with language barriers and how much they can hinder everyday communication. Naturally, the AI-supported Live captions with live translation feature stood out to me the most. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs the lengthy name implies, the feature can generate captions for all audio that passes through your PC in over 40 languages into English subtitles, all in real time. For the demo, I spoke into the Surface Laptop's microphone and was pleasantly surprised with how accurate and speedy the Spanish-to-English translation was. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-surface-pro-and-laptop-are-the-ultimate-ai-pcs-and-im-worried-for-apple\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's Surface Pro and Laptop are the ultimate 'AI PCs', and I'm worried for Apple\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I switched from speaking English to Spanish, the captions automatically shifted from one language to the other nearly instantaneously with minimal lag. Most importantly, the translations were still accurate and better than the standard Google Translate. Not having to switch between languages manually is a game-changer because, in real-world conversations, you don't have the time or foresight to predict when the other person will start speaking. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen using it, you can choose whether the computer's microphone or the internal audio from a video, song, or meeting should be used. This makes the feature suitable for various applications, such as translating all-hands meetings, conversations with customer service representatives, and more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Cocreator in Paint\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a0709b03-2c87-469b-8532-d3d1d783a9e5\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Cocreator\" data-image-filename=\"img-3291-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F21\" data-image-crop=\"3537x1988+333+562\" data-image-width=\"3883\" data-image-height=\"2912\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWill Cocreator win awards for being the most useful AI feature ever? Probably not. Was it tons of fun to test? Definitely. With Cocreator, users can use an AI canvas to quickly transform their sketches into more polished art. The Creativity bar lets you choose how much of the original sketch you'd like to keep and how much more you'd like to be AI-generated.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-went-hands-on-with-microsofts-surface-pro-and-laptop-and-im-ready-to-ditch-my-macbook\u002F\"\u003EI went hands-on with Microsoft's Surface Pro and Laptop, and I'm ready to ditch my MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, in the demo, I drew a terrible sketch of a puppy, as seen in the image above. When I turned Creativity up to 100, Cocreator generated a much cuter rendition of the dog, keeping some basic features such as big beady eyes, floppy ears, and even my color scheme. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis feature appeals to me more than the traditional \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-image-generator\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAI image generators\u003C\u002Fa\u003E since the mock-up process feels more genuine and personal. Additionally, some creatives, such as marketers or interior designers, can benefit from adding a tool like this to their workflow -- when an idea comes to mind, and they just don't have the time to map it all out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. Restyle Image in Photos \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"edbdfcf3-3e11-491a-ae27-3ec33b2d9746\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Restyle feature\" data-image-filename=\"img-3295.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F21\" data-image-crop=\"3630x2040+0+372\" data-image-width=\"3630\" data-image-height=\"2722\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlmost equally as fun is Restyle in Photos. With this feature, users can modify their photos with generative AI, changing elements such as the background or even the full picture to match a specific style or theme. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-veo-meet-googles-next-gen-ai-video-creator-powered-by-imagen-3\u002F\"\u003EWhat is Veo? Meet Google's next-gen AI video creator\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs seen in my demo, I was able to completely change the background of a photo of the couple by typing in a descriptive text prompt with what I wanted to see instead. Like Cocreator, users can set a Creativity level to adjust how much of the image is generated with AI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile Restyle in Photos may not be a feature I would necessarily use every day, I can see it being useful for creating lock screens, greeting cards, seasonal messages, and more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. Image Creator in Photos\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"28d6a562-813e-466f-a45c-5ffd8a59cd23\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft Image Creator in Photos\" data-image-filename=\"img-3293.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"3441\" data-image-height=\"2581\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECopilot+ PCs also have Image Creator in Photos, which, like other image generators, transforms a user text prompt into an image. However, the impressive part here is that the tool runs on-device instead of in the cloud like DALL-E. As a result, generated images come out faster, and the whole process happens locally.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-image-generator\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI image generators of 2024: Tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn my demo, I prompted Image Creator in Photos to generate 50 images, and I was shocked by how quickly it completed the task. As seen in the image above, Image Creator relied entirely on Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite NPU to generate the images, lessening the power required from the laptop's GPU and CPU.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E6. Windows Studio Effects\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b1bee5af-b0fe-4e38-9f73-f00feb0e6233\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Creative filters\" data-image-filename=\"img-3285.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F21\" data-image-crop=\"4032x2264+0+400\" data-image-width=\"4032\" data-image-height=\"3024\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELastly, Windows Studio Effects has been enhanced to deliver improved video calls, with features such as Portrait Light that enhances how you or your background are illuminated, an eye contact teleprompter, which helps you read your screen while keeping contact, and, my favorite, creative filters.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-bing-image-creator\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to use Image Creator from Microsoft Designer (formerly Bing Image Creator)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile creative filters are perhaps the least practical addition to Windows Studio Effects, it was really fun to see myself being transformed into an animated version with impressive detail, as seen in the image above. Work and video calls can be boring, so why not have some fun? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor more serious conversations, voice focus, a feature that uses AI to detect and cancel noises around you, and portrait blur, which blurs your background in calls, will be of great use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-05-21 15:18:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"From Recall to Windows Studio Effects, these AI features can do just about everything on a PC for you.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"d90e1b5c-fbd2-411b-8bf6-bcecd06503b8",image:{id:"b1bee5af-b0fe-4e38-9f73-f00feb0e6233",filename:"img-3285.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-05-21 05:08:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Copilot+PC",credits:"Sabrina Ortiz\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F21\u002Fb1bee5af-b0fe-4e38-9f73-f00feb0e6233\u002Fimg-3285.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:"3517x1975+20+681",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4032,height:3024,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"i-demoed-every-new-ai-feature-coming-to-copilot-pcs-and-im-nearly-sold-on-the-hype",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"I demoed every new AI feature coming to Copilot+ PCs, and I'm nearly sold on the hype",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"21cbb2df-d864-4708-94de-79d0a895574d\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"windows-10-hero-gif-10x.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"windows-10-hero-gif-10x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2019\u002F10\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"497\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENote: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published in September 2019 and has been updated significantly and republished several times since then. The current version incorporates details about major changes Microsoft made to the free upgrade program in September 2023.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn January 2017, I wrote a post titled  \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade\u002F\"\u003E\"Here's how you can still get a free Windows 10 upgrade.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E It became the single most popular post I've ever published at ZDNET, and it is still one of the site's most popular pages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11\u002F\"\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the months after that original publication, I rechecked, revised, and updated the post several times. After the first few updates, though, I ran out of old PCs to upgrade; so I tacked on a note at the end of the article, asking readers who tried this technique to use the contact form and let me know how the experience went.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe response to that request was overwhelming, and I still receive reports today.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlas, these days, most of those reports are from people confirming that the free upgrade offer no longer results in a valid digital license. That loophole officially closed on September 20, 2023, when Microsoft posted an inconspicuous announcement on a website for its hardware partners. (For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fits-official-no-more-free-windows-10-upgrades\u002F\"\u003E\"It's official: No more free Windows 10 upgrades\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fseven-ways-to-make-windows-11-less-annoying\u002F\"\u003E7 ways to make Windows 11 less annoying\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough the upgrade to Windows 10 still works, the newly upgraded PC reports that it's not properly activated. In the Settings app, all options on the Personalization page are unavailable, and this message appears at the top of the page, in red:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"You need to activate Windows before you can personalize your PC.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo why did Microsoft allow those free upgrades in the first place? And is there any chance that it'll \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Erevoke those digital licenses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, now that the free upgrade offer is officially defunct?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhy did Microsoft do this?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe answer to that first question is easy. Remember, Microsoft's Windows business is predicated on its partnership with PC makers, who pay a license fee for every copy of Windows they install on a new PC. Those OEMs are none too happy about the idea of extending the life of an older PC; they would much rather have you buy a brand-new PC instead.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best Windows laptops you can buy right now\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, to mollify its OEM partners, Microsoft put a time limit on the free upgrade offer, and when it expired after a year, the company simply didn't speak of it. Today, the Windows marketing team enthusiastically promotes new PCs running Windows 11, and the enterprise sales staff continues to sell volume licenses of Windows Enterprise editions and Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Nobody talks about upgrades.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrankly, at this point, the only people who are still interested in a free upgrade to Windows 10 are enthusiasts, home users, and very small businesses running hardware that's at least eight years old. That doesn't mean the upgrade will fail, of course. I've received multiple reports of successful Windows 10 upgrades on PCs that date back to the very beginning of the Windows 7 era in 2009-2011.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut most of those ancient PCs have been retired. The vast majority of Windows PCs sold in the past eight years included Windows 10 licenses, and even businesses who stuck with Windows 7 to the bitter end typically did so by exercising downgrade rights. They're free to install Windows 10 anytime, without having to jump through any hoops.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn PCs that were originally sold with older versions of Windows, Microsoft's calculus is pretty straightforward: It's in the company's best interests to see those old Windows versions replaced, both for support purposes and to improve the security of the Windows ecosystem. There's little or no profit in trying to sell upgrades to that market, and there's plenty of goodwill to reap by making those upgrades easy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBut is there a catch?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second question is a little tougher. \u003Cem\u003EIs\u003C\u002Fem\u003E there a catch? In technical terms, no. A PC that upgraded from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 before the cutoff date in September 2023 reports that it is activated and has a digital license for Windows 10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-downgrade-from-windows-11-to-windows-10\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIs that license legal? As I've said many times, I am not a lawyer, so I can't offer legal advice. But I have a lot of experience with Windows licensing, and it's literally inconceivable (and yes, that word means exactly what you think it means) that Microsoft would choose to enforce an ambiguous license agreement against its retail customers. They are, after all, prospects to subscribe to Microsoft 365, buy Xbox hardware and games, play Minecraft, use \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-copilot-formerly-bing-chat-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft Copilot\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and eventually buy a new Windows 11 PC from one of those aforementioned partners.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd whatever pittance Microsoft's bean counters might be able to squeeze out of those upgrades wouldn't come close to balancing the very, very bad publicity that would come from sending threatening letters to retirees and mom-and-pop businesses that are trying to squeeze a few extra years of life out of their old hardware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're running a business, of course, the calculation is different. Do you really want to be unsure about whether your business software assets are properly licensed? (Your accountant will tell you no.) But here too I'm convinced that there's roughly zero likelihood that the software police are going to haul any consumers or small business owners away because they decided to upgrade an old PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-send-and-receive-imessages-on-windows\u002F\"\u003EHow to send and receive iMessages on Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, this all ties into the new Windows retail licensing model Microsoft introduced with Windows 10 way back in 2015. You only have to buy the license once, usually with a new PC, and after that, all the upgrades are free, as long as the hardware allows it. That's the official policy with Windows 10 and Windows 11, and it's clear that the unofficial policy includes older Windows versions too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-05-16 12:09:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"For seven years after Microsoft's free upgrade offer officially ended, people were still reporting successful Windows 10 upgrades from older machines. Were all those loophole digital licenses legit?",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"95e2f8e0-9915-4d86-ac2b-aaf20e2a721b",image:{id:"628e0f11-0157-426b-af16-80aa0ef653d3",filename:"windows-10-hero-gif.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2018-10-05 13:20:59",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"windows-in-reach.jpg",credits:b,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2018\u002F10\u002F05\u002F628e0f11-0157-426b-af16-80aa0ef653d3\u002Fwindows-10-hero-gif.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:770,height:497,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 10",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"what-ever-happened-to-the-free-windows-10-upgrade-offer",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"What ever happened to the free Windows 10 upgrade offer?",topic:{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"8d600230-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Jack Wallen",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Jack",lastName:"Wallen",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"f03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899",filename:"jack-wallen.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:04:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Ff03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899\u002Fjack-wallen.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Jack Wallen is what happens when a Gen Xer mind-melds with present-day snark. Jack is a seeker of truth and a writer of words with a quantum mechanical pencil and a disjointed beat of sound and soul. An award-winning writer and novelist, Jack has been covering Linux, open-source, and other topics since the late 1990s for numerous publications such as ZDNET, CNET, TechRepublic, Linux.com, The New Stack, Linode, TechTarget, and Linux New Media. Jack's also written over 50 novels of fiction, at least one of which focuses on the Linux operating system. For more news about Jack Wallen, visit his website jackwallen.com.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8ed2f714-3c32-49ef-8a9a-8a4781efeefd\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"MirageC\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"A ball protected by various abstract walls\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1196521215.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"2120\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI get tunnel vision when I'm writing. Once I'm deep into the flow, most everything disappears, and it's just me and the words. However, I can't always get deep into that flow. Sometimes my mind wants to wander. Typically, I allow such curiosity, because it often leads to a thought I might not otherwise have had. Either that -- or my brain simply needs the break.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Five-published-60-novels-and-these-5-free-writing-tools-helped-make-it-possible\u002F\"\u003EI've published 60 novels - and these 5 free writing tools helped make it possible\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut at times, those distractions do throw me off my game. Writing is a finicky beast. A five-minute break can easily become 15 or 20 minutes as you must take the time to get back into that zone you walked away from. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou don't want that.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo avoid such distractions, I have a particular set of tools I can turn to (for when my mind is feeling particularly wander-ish). Here they are.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Calmly Writer: No-nonsense focus\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENormally, I use LibreOffice as my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002F5-ways-libreoffice-meets-my-writing-needs-better-than-google-docs-can\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eword processor of choice\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It's free, open-source, cross-platform, and powerful. But sometimes I need to pare the features down until it's just a bare-bones writing tool --just me and the words. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I need my concentration to be laser-focused on composing a narrative, I turn to \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ee32c737-cb51-4a77-b90f-547aa1aa4843\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.calmlywriter.com\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Calmy Writer\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Imagine having what looks like a standard terminal window but with the power of a word processor. That's Calmy Writer. This app strips away the nonsense and presents you with only what you need to get the words down. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002F5-ways-libreoffice-meets-my-writing-needs-better-than-google-docs-can\u002F\"\u003E5 ways LibreOffice meets my writing needs better than Google Docs can\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is minimal formatting but just enough to allow you to create H2\u002FH2, bold, italics, bulleted lists, numbered lists, links, and quotes. You also get real-time feedback for word count, character count, and average reading time. The tabbed interface can also be used in full-screen mode, which makes it an ideal tool for pushing away distractions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECalmly Writer offers a free trial. To continue using the app, you'll have to drop a one-time \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c6ebaad1-fe63-45c4-8b4d-3a86874d13ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.calmlywriter.com\u002Fbuylicense.htm\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"$14.99 license fee\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. You can install Calmly Writer on Linux, MacOS, Windows, and ChromeOS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Opera: Yes, a browser - for research\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIncluding a web browser in a list of distraction-free tools might seem counterintuitive, but hear me out. It's inevitable: While writing, you'll have to do some research now and then. I regularly have to look things up when writing. For example, my current book series is set in Boston. Since I don't live in Boston, I need to check on street names, neighborhoods, and other facts that could distract readers if they're wrong. For that, I need a browser. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhy \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.opera.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOpera\u003C\u002Fa\u003E? Two reasons: Workspaces and Aria. Workspaces is the best tab management system on the market. I have a Writing workspace, which I only use for -- you guessed it -- writing. When I'm writing, I don't leave that Workspace and I don't open social media, shopping, or other non-writing-related sites. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002F5-reasons-why-opera-is-my-favorite-browser-and-you-should-check-it-out-too\u002F\"\u003E5 reasons why Opera is my favorite browser (and you should check it out too)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAria is Opera's built-in AI and I use it strictly for research. Why do I opt for Aria over a Google search? Because I can get the answers I need faster and without worrying about landing on sites overloaded with ads or other distractions. I can type \"\u003Cem\u003EWhat is the average amount of snowfall in Boston between January and March?\" \u003C\u002Fem\u003Eand get an immediate answer. Beyond research, I do \u003Cem\u003Enot\u003C\u002Fem\u003E use AI in my writing (nor do I copy\u002Fpaste anything from Aria's responses).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpera is free and can be installed on Linux, MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Limit: Cut down on distracting sites\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESpeaking of web browsers: If you have trouble governing your web browser usage (especially on social media sites), consider using an extension like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.freedom.to\u002Fen\u002Farticles\u002F3148951-how-to-use-limit\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELimit\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which allows you to set time limits on distracting sites. For instance, you could set a five-minute limit (the minimum) on Facebook, so every time you feel a need for a distraction, you can be sure it will only last five minutes. Any website can be added and you'll find 10 pre-configured sites (that are known for being distracting). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-notebook\u002F\"\u003EThe best smart notebooks: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you find yourself constantly doom-scrolling when you should be writing, Limit is a must. Limit is free and can be installed on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fchromewebstore.google.com\u002Fdetail\u002Flimit-set-limits-for-dist\u002Fblcdfhbibkkjpfdddnmnmhfgjlicebba\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChromium-based\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Faddons.mozilla.org\u002Fen-US\u002Ffirefox\u002Faddon\u002Flimit-limit-distracting-sites\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EFirefox-based browsers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. Blanket: Ambient sounds instead of music\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery so often I need sound to keep me centered. The problem with listening to music when I write is that the tunes tend to color my prose, narration, and dialogue. Because of that, I would always have to switch to music that matched the tone of what I was working on. On top of that, I can't listen to music with lyrics because I might allow those words to inform my writing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-music-headphones\u002F\"\u003EI listened to over 100 hours of music last year. These headphones sounded the best\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat I now use instead is an app like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fflathub.org\u002Fapps\u002Fcom.rafaelmardojai.Blanket\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBlanket\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which creates ambient sounds like rain, storm, wind, waves, stream, birds, summer night, train, boat, city, coffee shop, fireplace, pink noise, white noise, and even custom sounds that you add. You can raise the volume of each sound to create a noise scape of different sounds, such as storms and waves or rain and coffee shops. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBlanket is free and only available for Linux, but you'll find plenty of ambient sound apps for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.apple.com\u002Fus\u002Fapp\u002Fdark-noise-ambient-sounds\u002Fid1465439395\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.microsoft.com\u002Fdetail\u002F9p9bngqtdgrt?hl=en-us&gl=US\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. Pomodoro: Set a timer and - go!\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETypically, I \"time\" my fiction-writing sessions by word count and not by time spent. I aim for 1,000 words per day. But once in a while, I'll do a writing sprint, where I'll set a time limit and just start writing stream of consciousness. This is a great writing exercise because it challenges you to not stop writing for a set period. It doesn't matter what you write, as long as you don't stop writing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor that, I need a good timer and the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgnomepomodoro.org\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPomodoro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E timer on Linux is a great option. (If you're curious, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FPomodoro_Technique\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPomodoro Technique\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is a time management system  that uses a kitchen timer to break work into intervals.) This timer is also an option for breaks. Set the timer for five minutes and give your brain a rest. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002F5-ways-to-help-you-manage-your-time-more-effectively-at-work\u002F\"\u003E5 ways to manage your time more effectively at work\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPomodoro is free to install on Linux. You'll find plenty of Pomodoro timers for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.apple.com\u002Fgb\u002Fapp\u002Fbe-focused-pomodoro-timer\u002Fid973134470?mt=12\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapps.microsoft.com\u002Fsearch?query=pomodoro&hl=en-us&gl=US\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd there you have it, five apps I depend on when distractions become an issue. I'm confident that at least one of these tools will help you focus so you can get the words to the page more efficiently -- and without suffering under the weight of your mind's wanderlust.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-04-16 20:54:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"To avoid distractions, I enlist a particular set of tools. Whatever your writing platform - Linux, MacOS, Windows, Android, or iOS - help is here.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"35e2e5b0-6174-48de-a8ce-e32b1ca044f8",image:{id:"8ed2f714-3c32-49ef-8a9a-8a4781efeefd",filename:"gettyimages-1196521215.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-04-16 22:22:29",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"A ball protected by various abstract walls",credits:"MirageC\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F16\u002F8ed2f714-3c32-49ef-8a9a-8a4781efeefd\u002Fgettyimages-1196521215.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2120,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Work Life^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"my-top-5-tools-to-beat-distractions-and-get-more-writing-done-or-any-work-really",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"My top 5 tools to beat distractions and get more writing done - or any work, really",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"8d600230-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Jack Wallen",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Jack",lastName:"Wallen",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"f03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899",filename:"jack-wallen.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:04:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Ff03bef9a-858a-451d-bc30-8c603c2ba899\u002Fjack-wallen.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Jack Wallen is what happens when a Gen Xer mind-melds with present-day snark. Jack is a seeker of truth and a writer of words with a quantum mechanical pencil and a disjointed beat of sound and soul. An award-winning writer and novelist, Jack has been covering Linux, open-source, and other topics since the late 1990s for numerous publications such as ZDNET, CNET, TechRepublic, Linux.com, The New Stack, Linode, TechTarget, and Linux New Media. Jack's also written over 50 novels of fiction, at least one of which focuses on the Linux operating system. For more news about Jack Wallen, visit his website jackwallen.com.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"462320ea-d4df-4688-a0a7-8fd7f5351c6e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EI used every feature listed below to create this portion of a book cover.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sample image created with GIMP.\" data-image-filename=\"gimp-sample.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F29\" data-image-width=\"1545\" data-image-height=\"1044\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been using GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Project) since its initial release (back in 1998) and it has served me very well. Thankfully, the app hasn't leaped into \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-ai-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-about-artificial-intelligence\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eartificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (as I don't believe AI has any business in the creative arts) and has continued to be one of the most powerful image editors on the market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've never wanted a different application when I create book covers or have other image-editing requirements. But there are certain features I've depended on more than others to get my work done. Without these features, creating high-quality images would have been considerably more challenging.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-export-images-as-pdfs-in-gimp\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to export images as PDFs in GIMP\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGIMP contains a large number of handy features, but I've narrowed the list to five because these are the ones I depend on the most. I've also decided to avoid the obvious features, such as the eraser, text tool, paintbrush, etc. I've focused on tools you might not be aware of that can help take your creative works to the next level.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd with that said, let's get to the features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Layers\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELayers are essential. Without them, I wouldn't be able to do what I do. If you've never worked with layers, consider them as a way to stack slides on top of a base image, each of which might contain part of the base image or a completely different element. You can then edit each layer without affecting the ones beneath it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-layers-in-the-gimp-image-editor-and-why-you-should\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to use Layers in the GIMP image editor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you were to try and edit a complicated image without using layers, you'd very quickly realize how impossible it is. Layers can be assigned opacity, gradients, and other effects to create more dimensional work. One thing to keep in mind is that if you have a background image you want to use, and you want to edit that picture, you should create a solid color background layer underneath. As part of that process, you could add a gradient to the background image to give it a fade quality. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELayers are an absolute must for anyone trying to create something with depth and any level of complexity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Layer masks\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELayer masks are as essential as layers in GIMP. With layer masks, you can selectively modify the opacity\u002Ftransparency of a layer. Remember above when I mentioned using the gradient to fade a layer (so you can reveal part of what lies beneath)? Well, that technique isn't possible without layer masks. There are two types of layer masks:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhite - Full transparency\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBlack - Full opacity\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor my purposes, I always create layer masks for full opacity and then adjust them as needed. To produce a layer mask, right-click a layer (in the layers box on the right sidebar) and select Add Layer Mask. After manipulating the layer, you must remember to apply the layer mask. For nearly every book cover I create, I use layer masks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Gradient\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor layering, the Gradient tool is the cherry on top. Gradient allows you to fade layers so they either reveal what is beneath or blend into what lies beneath. You can sometimes achieve the same effect using the Eraser tool and lowering the hardness to around 10-15, but Gradient makes it much easier with larger sections. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-midjourney-to-generate-amazing-images-and-art\u002F\"\u003EHow to use Midjourney to generate amazing images and art\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also change the colors, but fade a layer to reveal part of a background image. I find using white as the foreground color and black as the background color gives the best results.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. G'Mic Qt\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EG'MIC Qt is a powerful collection of effects that makes it possible to manipulate your images (or layers) in such a way that combines multiple filters for a single effect. For example, you can add bokeh, and transform your image, so it looks like it's drawn with a felt pen or in the cubism style. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-gmic-for-gimp-and-how-do-you-use-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWhat is G'MIC for GIMP and how do you use it?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are also filters for arrays and tiles, artistic, black and white, colors, contours, deformations, degradations, details, frames, frequencies, layers, lights and shadows, and much more. You'll find hundreds of different looks in G'Mic Qt, each of which can be applied with a click. Also, almost every filter can be customized for your creation. G'Mic Qt isn't installed by default with GIMP, so you'll have to install it (for free) with your package manager of choice.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. The Fuzzy Select tool\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI don't use the Fuzzy Select tool with every image I create. But when I need the tool, there's nothing like it. Fuzzy Select allows you to select areas of a layer or image, based on similar color, unlike the Color Select tool, which chooses areas based on a single color. Fuzzy Select works by selecting an area of the image that contains variations of a color. Click an area and the Fuzzy Select tool selects a different portion of the image. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI recently used the Fuzzy Select tool when I created a book cover for a writer who wanted three different covers. Each cover used the same rocky beach scene. But the water rose from books one to three to cover more rocks. I used the Fuzzy Select tool to select portions of the ocean, pasted the selection into a new layer, and blended as needed. That approach was easier than copying a selection of ocean, adding a layer, and blending it with the eraser. The result was more natural looking by using Fuzzy Select.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI can't imagine getting the results I need without the above five GIMP features. If you work with GIMP and you're not using any of the above tools, I highly recommend you get to know how they work so you can take your image editing to the next level.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-04-30 15:32:54",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"If you're looking for a powerful, free image editor, look no further than GIMP, which includes a few features that are essential for creating great images.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"d550b803-fba4-433b-b4e3-7e414cb9365e",image:{id:"462320ea-d4df-4688-a0a7-8fd7f5351c6e",filename:"gimp-sample.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-04-29 14:49:28",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Sample image created with GIMP.",credits:"Jack Wallen\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EI used every feature listed below to create this portion of a book cover.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F29\u002F462320ea-d4df-4688-a0a7-8fd7f5351c6e\u002Fgimp-sample.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1545,height:1044,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Linux",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"the-features-i-depend-on-most-with-the-gimp-image-editor",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"The 5 GIMP features I depend on most when editing images (and how I use them)",topic:{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10f422bf-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"open-source",name:"Open Source",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5c1aaec7-544c-46f0-9e43-0e0b26346a7f\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EIncreasingly, Microsoft is treating Windows as a giant billboard where it can promote and cross-sell other products.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image Source\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"annoyed worker\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-145073992.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F07\u002F21\" data-image-width=\"2087\" data-image-height=\"1437\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the years, I've learned that the best way to get an accurate picture of what Microsoft is really up to is to look at the places where the company is legally required to tell the truth.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've found interesting nuggets, for example, by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-microsoft-buries-key-numbers-in-its-financial-reports-and-how-to-dig-them-out\u002F\"\u003Edigging into SEC-mandated quarterly financial reports\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But those revelations are typically couched in language that has been vetted by a veritable army of lawyers so that it satisfies the letter of the law and still obscures relevant facts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-windows-10-too-popular-for-its-own-good\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIs Windows 10 too popular for its own good?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a complete, unfiltered view of what a public company is doing, though, nothing beats a subpoena that compels the company to hand over internal communications. That's what happened earlier this month when a document in the ongoing battle between Microsoft and the US Federal Trade Commission over the acquisition of Activision Blizzard briefly became public.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat document, dated June 2022, consists of a heavily redacted 50-slide PowerPoint presentation titled \"State of the Business,\" along with two lengthy memos from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to the company's board of directors and its senior leadership team. (I found the document online in the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.courtlistener.com\u002Fdocket\u002F67494594\u002Ffederal-trade-commission-v-microsoft-corporation\u002F\"\u003Ecase docket for the United States District Court of Northern California\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, although it appears to have since been removed. You can read the whole thing for yourself thanks to \u003Cem\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.theinformation.com\u002F\"\u003EThe Information\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E, which \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.documentcloud.org\u002Fdocuments\u002F23864262-px1889-redacted\"\u003Eposted a public copy online\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are fascinating details about every aspect of Microsoft's business in this document, including meaty stuff about its cloud products and the Xbox gaming platform. I zeroed in on some revelations about how the company plans to squeeze extra revenue out of its enormous installed base for Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4ee8408c-76a8-4909-8a5d-94ef880ed81b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis slide is one of many from a confidential Microsoft doc that talked about integrating Microsoft services into Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoft-modern-life-strategy-doc\" data-image-filename=\"microsoft-modern-life-strategy-doc.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F07\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"1157\" data-image-height=\"824\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIncreasingly, Microsoft is treating Windows as a giant billboard where it can promote and cross-sell other products. Don't believe me? Here's Nadella's summary of the initiative in the memo titled \"Microsoft's Growth Strategy: Plan of Record\":\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows expands the PC and acts as a seamless integrative hub for all our products and services…\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are currently more than 1.3 billion active Windows devices, with ~750 million owned by consumers. Our priorities are to maintain the competitiveness of the Windows ecosystem and to grow the adoption, engagement and monetization of our applications that rely on the ecosystem. Adoption of Windows 11 will both provide better experiences for users and monetize our applications and services more effectively. We have significant room to improve the adoption and monetization of key high-value services on Windows PCs, including Gaming (Game Pass on PC), OneDrive (\"Backup your PC\"), consumer productivity (M365 consumer subscription) and advertising through the browser and feed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis really shouldn't be a surprise, of course. If you're a humongous global software company selling a mature product in a market that's no longer growing and where there's significant downward pressure on the price of the product, you need to start looking elsewhere for the revenue that will keep that business unit relevant.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best Windows laptops\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne obvious solution for Microsoft is to do to Windows what the company has already done with its Office product, transforming a buy-it-once license into a subscription service. Some of that work has already been done on the enterprise side, where customers typically buy Windows Enterprise edition licenses with Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 subscriptions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is actively working to push Windows to the cloud, with Windows 365 already available for enterprise customers who want to give their employees a \"full Windows PC experience via their browser.\" That could be a consumer business someday, but it will be years before a cloud-based version of Windows is ready for mass adoption by a global consumer market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, what to do in the meantime? Meet Microsoft Plus, which is what some MBA in Redmond decided to call the collection of consumer services that the company wants to cross-sell, upsell, and promote through PCs running Windows. This is what's listed under the \"Current Priorities\" heading for the Modern Life solution area (the MBA-speak is very thick in this document).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this new era of the PC, we envision serving over 1.5 billion people daily with productivity devices, software and services across work, life, education, and play via an integrated and personalized Windows + experience.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E[…]\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMicrosoft Plus Services Attach:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Grow attach and usage of Microsoft and 3rd party services such as Microsoft 365 Personal\u002FFamily, Xbox Game Pass, and Microsoft Edge\u002FBing through integration on Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, there are multiple instances in this memo that refer to greater integration between Windows 11 and these Microsoft Plus services. This is part of the plan of record for the Search, Advertising, News, Edge (SANE) group:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur primary objective is to create differentiated and personalized content, search and shopping scenarios to drive greater usage intensity from our existing hundreds of millions of users. We will increase usage of Bing and Edge by differentiating our products for high value consumer needs (e.g., making Edge the best browser for shopping). In addition to improved differentiation, we aim to create more usage and attract new consumers via enhanced integration into the Windows shell as part of Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe're already seeing some of this \"enhanced integration in the Windows shell\" with the messy Windows 11 Widgets feature, which includes news headlines and ads from Microsoft's advertising network as an unremovable option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWindows 11 setup: Which user account type should you choose?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat about Microsoft Teams? It's been embedded into Windows, too, as part of Microsoft's effort to fight off the threat from Google's Chromebooks:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe are sharpening our focus on Windows, which in some way helps drive nearly half our Company's revenue overall. In the commercial space our priority is to drive Windows 11 adoption. In the consumer and education spaces we are taking on Chromebooks with the integration of Teams into Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd no, Windows 10 is not immune from this pressure to integrate. A review of results for the Microsoft 365 Consumer group includes this nugget:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith fewer PC activations than expected, it drives weakness in perpetual sales. … Selling Microsoft 365 outside of new PC sales and activations remains a focus area for the team, which includes working with Windows on product changes within Win10 given size of that active user base. Product experiences and new premium value for Microsoft 365 remain in focus, as does driving attach of our lower priced OneDrive\u002FStorage offering.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might have already seen complaints from some folks about \"ads\" in Windows for OneDrive subscriptions. Expect more of this sort of thing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-windows-11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or Windows 11\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis sort of stuff isn't unique to Microsoft, of course. Apple is aggressive about pushing its own services on Macs and iOS devices, and it makes a boatload of money from ads on its App Store. And Google services as well as ads are a key part of the Chromebook experience. But this is relatively new territory for Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo far, Microsoft hasn't succumbed to pressure to put actual third-party ads in the Windows shell. But you have to believe someone in Redmond is working on those options. Can't leave money on the table when there's a revenue shortfall in Q4.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2023-07-21 14:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"As the PC market slows and Microsoft's Windows income stream declines, the company is looking for fresh revenue in all the usual places. The pitches are going to get more persistent.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"f8445514-910f-4087-9c05-9edc8d60c267",image:{id:"5c1aaec7-544c-46f0-9e43-0e0b26346a7f",filename:"gettyimages-145073992.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-07-21 13:29:58",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"microsoft-modern-life-strategy-doc",credits:"Getty Images\u002FImage Source",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EThis slide is one of many from a confidential Microsoft doc that talked about integrating Microsoft services into Windows\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F21\u002F5c1aaec7-544c-46f0-9e43-0e0b26346a7f\u002Fgettyimages-145073992.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2087,height:1437,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"heres-why-windows-pcs-are-only-going-to-get-more-annoying",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Here's why Windows PCs are only going to get more annoying",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EI got an email from a reader. I'm not going to tell you exactly what my correspondent said because, as often happens in reader letters to me, it was rife with unrepeatable words. The least egregious of my Dear Reader's vocabulary was the opening salvo, which read, \"Listen, you idiot, there's no way I'm upgrading to Windows 11.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the surface, it might appear that readers like this are unpleasant. But I've found that many of my most cranky readers are what can be categorized as \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.inc.com\u002Flaura-montini\u002Fthe-most-undervalued-employee-at-any-organization.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edisagreeable givers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\" These folks are golden. I find them tremendously valuable. They're willing to provide feedback that more pleasant folks aren't willing or able to do. I can't tell you how many times I've posted about something. I got an email back that begins with \"listen, you idiot,\" followed with detailed and useful information for solving whatever problem I was struggling with. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this case, my correspondent goes on to list the reasons he's not upgrading to Windows 11. Three of his observations form the foundation of this article. First, Windows 10 will be supported until 2025. Second, some of his current machines won't run Windows 11 (at least, not without a hack). And third, he believes it's not worth the retraining time for Windows 11 but is willing to move to Windows 11 when he buys new machines. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese are, in fact, reasonably valid points. Let's discuss the end-of-life issue first. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E The Windows pumpkin date \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-windows-10-is-a-security-disaster-waiting-to-happen\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EEd Bott discusses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Windows 10 will turn into a pumpkin on October 14, 2025. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe concept of something pumpkining is tied to the fable Cinderella, where Cindy's fabulous carriage, which her Fairy Godmother magically created from a pumpkin, reverts back to a pumpkin at midnight. In our case, anything that pumpkins changes into a useless or less desirable form at a specific time or date. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 10 pumpkins in October 2025 because that's when Microsoft will stop issuing support updates. Unfortunately, since millions of machines can't be updated to Windows 11, Bott rightly contends that all those machines will then become security nightmares. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-guide-to-screen-size-aspect-ratio-resolution-and-more\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EYour guide to screen size: Aspect ratio, resolution, and more\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut 2025 is almost four years away, which means if you want to use your Windows 10 machine until support ends, nothing is stopping you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E No Windows 11 for you \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-windows-11-means-well-be-stuck-with-millions-of-windows-10-zombies\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewe haven't mentioned this\u003C\u002Fa\u003E before a lot. But Windows 11 won't run on all PCs. Only certain processors will be supported, only 64-bit machines will be supported, and only machines with a TPM chip will run Windows 11. For the very latest, keep an eye on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwill-your-pc-run-windows-11-even-microsoft-cant-say-for-sure\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EEd's article on the subject\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which he keeps up to date. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your machine isn't supported for Windows 11, you can certainly keep using it with Windows 10. We don't recommend using it after updates end, but that's years away. Cross that bridge when the pumpkin pops. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou could do another thing, which we do not recommend, is install Windows 11 by hacking your PC. My Internet Press Guild colleague Avram Piltch has \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.tomshardware.com\u002Fhow-to\u002Fbypass-windows-11-tpm-requirement\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea helpful guide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E if you want to take that route. But be forewarned: you lose \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-has-advanced-hardware-security-heres-how-to-get-it-in-windows-10-today\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emost of the added security goodness Windows 11 offers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E if you do. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Retraining for Windows 11 \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere, I mostly disagree with my disagreeable giver reader. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's be clear. If you know how to use Windows 10, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to learn to use Windows 11. So the Start icon is in the middle of the screen. Big deal. You can actually move it back, if you want to, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fpaid-content\u002Farticle\u002F6-ways-to-customize-windows-11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewith a simple tweak\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo he can cry all he wants about retraining. It honestly ain't no big thing. Get over it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E But you don't have to update to Windows 11 \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn general, operating systems need to be upgraded regularly. Hardware evolves. So do threats. There comes a time when the overall architecture of an ageing OS begins to weigh down with legacy elements, making it harder to add innovations. Upgrading an OS allows vendors to make big-step changes that incorporate new innovations and new protections. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVendors also like new operating systems because they give machines that new PC smell. There's usually a bump in PC sales when a new major release comes out, so vendors like to see new OS versions every few years. It allows them to add some of those new features we discussed but also market using a differentiator that says their older systems are older and that their newest products are the new hotness. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs for security, I asked Ed how to characterize Windows 11 vs. Windows 10. He told me: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI personally don't think it's helpful to make blanket statements like \"Windows 11 is more secure than Windows 10.\" Better to simply say, if your hardware supports Windows 11, and there are no critical features that you would lose, then you should upgrade. It's a platform that's being actively developed. Windows 10 is a legacy platform. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut here's the thing. Windows 10 can be secure, especially if you update \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techradar.com\u002Fnews\u002Fmicrosoft-could-be-on-the-verge-of-forcibly-upgrading-windows-10-on-your-computer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eas Microsoft recommends\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"66464c74-be08-4046-a7d9-4711d63864af\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F66464c74-be08-4046-a7d9-4711d63864af\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's only February of 2022. October of 2025 is 43 months away. A \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnews.microsoft.com\u002Fen-nz\u002F2018\u002F10\u002F16\u002Ftrue-cost-of-not-replacing-computers-revealed-in-microsoft-study-more-than-4000-each\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E2018 Microsoft study\u003C\u002Fa\u003E states that the \"optimal age of PCs is no more than four years old.\" Even if you buy a new Windows 10 machine right now, it's still going to have most of its usable life while it's within the optimal age window. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, at some point, you will have to upgrade. Yes, some OSs are safe to use, even if they're 40 years old. \u003Cem\u003EGame of Thrones\u003C\u002Fem\u003E (technically, \u003Cem\u003EA Song of Ice and Fire\u003C\u002Fem\u003E) author \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fslate.com\u002Ftechnology\u002F2014\u002F05\u002Fgeorge-r-r-martin-writes-on-dos-based-wordstar-4-0-software-from-the-1980s.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGeorge R.R. Martin writes using WordStar 4.0 on DOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But DOS is safe because it's pre-Internet. It's so old that while malware did exist back in DOS's dark days, it didn't send your personal identifying information to criminals. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the fact is, if you're running an Internet-connected OS (and you are, because how could you survive otherwise?), then you'll need to upgrade at some point. Once Windows 10 loses support updates, hackers will be free to flood the Internet with unchecked exploits, and everyone running Windows 10 will be at risk. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut that's not for 43 months. So, if you don't want to upgrade to Windows 11 today, don't sweat it. Just put it on your calendar for the early fall of 2025. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's your Windows story? Are you running Windows 10? Windows 11? A mix of both? Let us know your thoughts and plans in the comments below. Feel free to post something disagreeable and useful (but not mean or disgusting, please). I always welcome learning new things. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-02-11 17:20:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"We share a reader's reasons for not upgrading to Windows 11 and explore whether you have to upgrade at all. TL;DR: Not now, but eventually.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"072faf3b-9579-47e8-86ec-9f3c1129874a",image:{id:"8f752e06-4c3c-4a8f-a220-5c84491e8be8",filename:"shutterstock-2001159119-windows-11.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-12-13 00:10:48",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Microsoft Windows 11 operating system logo seen on the screen of tablet and user pointing at it with stylus",credits:"Shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F12\u002F13\u002F8f752e06-4c3c-4a8f-a220-5c84491e8be8\u002Fshutterstock-2001159119-windows-11.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"windows-11-not-ready-to-upgrade-do-this-instead",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows 11: Not ready to upgrade? Do this instead",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"2a142269-ad72-4347-a8d7-cbab9a2f6346",username:"chris_matyszczyk",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Chris",lastName:"Matyszczyk",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"dc8b697c-2b0a-4b2d-8ce9-7ff431642a42",filename:"chris-matyszczyk.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:17:05",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fdc8b697c-2b0a-4b2d-8ce9-7ff431642a42\u002Fchris-matyszczyk.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Chris Matyszczyk is an award-winning creative director who now runs the consultancy Howard Raucous LLC. In 2013, Mediapost named him the Most Influential Person on Madison Avenue. His writing has been published all over the world, most recently on CNET.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9f8edbe2-2736-46a7-a51e-47642d17f11d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ENo, it's not this one.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"By sdx15 -- Shutterstock\" data-image-alt-text=\"windows-11-laptop.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"windows-11-laptop.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F08\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's been hard to forget.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeveral years ago, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fa-best-buy-salesman-told-me-the-best-windows-laptop-is-a-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EI went to Best Buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on one of my regular missions to see what salespeople tell customers, and I asked a question that has often perplexed me: What's the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest Windows laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe answer was twofold: first, the salesman took me over to the HP display. The \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"32539341-96a5-4cc7-85c8-57daefd04251\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FHP-15-6-inch-Touchscreen-Resolution-15-eb1043dx\u002Fdp\u002FB08RRSVW52\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Spectre 15\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E was his suggestion.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut as we got talking, he confessed that, though he wasn't an Apple fanperson -- his phone was Samsung -- the best Windows laptop in his truly honest view was the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"cb8f59c4-2623-47db-93ba-4343a41848e9\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fmacbook-pro\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"15-inch MacBook Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlright, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fan-apple-store-salesman-told-me-the-macbook-air-is-a-honda-civic\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EI was amused\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. I'm all \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"6463a216-ea15-4a68-8d1a-baf8c72cfa58\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fmacbook-air\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"MacBook Air\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, you see. My wife, on the other hand, is Windows. A scientist, that's what her employers provide, and it can sometimes be painful to witness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShe's graduated from a very heavy Dell -- \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"03d72ad6-245d-4ddf-9ee5-07caac6b4d31\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FDell-XPS-15-9500-i7-10750H\u002Fdp\u002FB08LDZNRPC\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"the XPS 15\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E -- to an appreciably lighter one. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwwdc-2022-apples-new-m2-powered-macbook-air\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENew MacBook Air and refreshed MacBook Pro Launch with Apple's new M2 chip\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI never get the impression, however, that she cherishes her laptop with consummate reverence.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOff I went, then, this time back to Best Buy with the idea that life had changed. With a different salesperson, I might be enlightened in a different manner.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI explained that I wanted my wife to be happy. The Best Buy salesman refrained from the obvious joke, for which I was grateful.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI admitted to my Macness and asked him, quite simply: \"Please tell me what the best Windows laptop is these days.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen chatting with some salespeople, they ask more questions. They might ask: \"What does she do?\" \"How does she use her laptop?\" Or even \"What did she do marrying you?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis particular salesman, though, wasn't riven by doubt.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe instantly swept me toward the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"88c3a282-8c31-4dab-82be-ab83b18e865d\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMicrosoft-Surface-Pro-8-13-Touchscreen\u002Fdp\u002FB09DKJKS4T\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Microsoft Surface\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Or, rather, the Microsoft Surfaces. For him, the touchscreens were a delight, and the ability to separate the screen from the keyboard was mesmerizing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, what struck me was how hard it was to grasp what they were all called. As he whisked me through, even he got caught between his Gos and his Pros. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe insisted, though, that my wife would find her ultimate experience in one or more of these Surfaces.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut then he caught himself: \"If she wants a more conventional laptop, then Microsoft has those too.\" So he wandered me over to those, which looked far more like MacBook Airs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI didn't find anything negative in his enthusiasm. Perhaps, though, on seeing a minor flutter of my eyebrows, he added: \"I just want to say this. I don't get commission on any of these laptops, so I'm not saying this for the money.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWithout my saying anything, he did then whip me over to HP and Dell. He explained they make nice things too. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI did, though, wonder whether he was vulnerable to pressing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI asked him whether it was more difficult for him to now sell Windows laptops, given the entry of the M1 MacBook Air and Pro. Their performance is, after, quite something. (Disclosure: I own and mostly like my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmy-apple-macbook-air-wouldnt-close-anymore-then-i-got-one-surprise-too-many\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EM1 Air.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"For most things you do, you just don't need the M1 MacBooks,\" he said. \"With some things, it's true; they're 30% faster.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"ce257707-4741-4cb1-946c-40e75c5be771\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fce257707-4741-4cb1-946c-40e75c5be771\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn essence, he felt that most people are content with what Windows laptops can do. And don't forget the detachable touchscreen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe explained that he didn't like the iPad Pro because it uses iOS, not macOS. But, returning to the M1, he offered these crucial words: \"And then there's the price.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo my eyes, the Surfaces didn't look exactly cheap. But every dollar matters, especially in the currently torrid economic climate.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery salesperson you meet has their own bent, their own way of selling, their own way of pleasing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've (almost) always had uplifting and entertaining sales experiences at Best Buy. This was no different. The salesman was easy to talk to, and his enthusiasm came across as quite genuine.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI still worry that the Surface hasn't broken through as much as it might have done. If only its initial marketing hadn't been so painful. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's odd to think that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-surface-in-2022-what-do-we-want-and-what-do-we-expect\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe Surface brand is now 10 years old\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It's hard to do hardware well when you start so far behind.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI thanked the salesman for his comprehensively enthusiastic presentation and walked away thinking he believed the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8699a556-2dce-48b2-aafb-17f1de8c137e\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNEW-Microsoft-Surface-Pro-Touch-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB07YNJ6R9P\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surface Pro X\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E was the best Windows laptop.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt least, I think it was the Surface Pro X.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-06-05 12:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"When a salesperson has no doubts, should you doubt them?",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"513f54e8-42bd-4863-b0d7-b057410603f2",image:{id:"9f8edbe2-2736-46a7-a51e-47642d17f11d",filename:"windows-11-laptop.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2021-08-31 11:12:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"windows-11-laptop.jpg",credits:"By sdx15 -- Shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ENo, it's not this one.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F31\u002F9f8edbe2-2736-46a7-a51e-47642d17f11d\u002Fwindows-11-laptop.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"i-asked-a-best-buy-salesman-for-the-best-windows-laptop-he-had-no-doubts",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"I asked a Best Buy salesman for the best Windows laptop. He had no doubts",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a7ecc6fa-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Mary Jo Foley",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Mary Jo",lastName:"Foley",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94",filename:"mary-jo-foley.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:57:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94\u002Fmary-jo-foley.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Mary Jo Foley has covered the tech industry for 30 years for a variety of publications, including ZDNET, eWeek, and Baseline. She is the author of Microsoft 2.0: How Microsoft plans to stay relevant in the post-Gates era (John Wiley & Sons, 2008). She also is the co-host of the \"Windows Weekly\" podcast on the TWiT network. \r\n\r\nGot a tip? Send her an email with your rants, rumors, tips, and tattles. Confidentiality guaranteed.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a92dfe6f-b02a-4e1b-9e4e-582a550e445f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Credit: @technosarusrex\" data-image-alt-text=\"windows11moments\" data-image-filename=\"windows11moments.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F07\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"877\" data-image-height=\"581\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust when Windows users were getting used to the largely well-received idea of Microsoft delivering a once-yearly feature update, the company may be about to shift gears yet again. Microsoft may be moving to a schedule where \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowscentral.com\u002Fsoftware-apps\u002Fwindows-11\u002Fmicrosoft-moves-to-new-windows-development-cycle-with-major-release-every-three-years-feature-drops-in-between\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enew Windows 11 features will roll out up to four times a year, and a \"major\" new release will happen every three years\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, according to a July 14 report by \u003Cem\u003EWindows Central.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EBefore IT admins grab their pitchforks, I think this change may be more of a public-relations move than something that will have major implications for how Windows releases are supported -- which is the main issue for many IT folks when it comes to new Windows releases.\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThe Windows group already started \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-heres-how-windows-11-will-get-new-features\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emuddying the updated waters\u003C\u002Fa\u003E this year. After announcing to the joy of many admins that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwith-rollout-of-21h2-microsoft-moves-windows-10-to-annual-updates\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft would move Windows 10 and 11 to an annual feature update cadence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with longer support terms, Chief Product Officer Panos Panay and the team made it clear that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-starts-rolling-out-android-apps-for-windows-11-other-new-features-to-mainstream-users\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethey would and could roll out new features whenever and however they wanted\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. In February this year, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-starts-rolling-out-android-apps-for-windows-11-other-new-features-to-mainstream-users\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft rolled out a handful of new Windows 11 features simultaneously\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and outside of the promised second-half feature update.\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cem\u003EWindows Central\u003C\u002Fem\u003E says that Microsoft's new plan is to roll out new features outside of major OS releases starting in 2023 as part of a new \"Moments\" engineering effort. (Even the name \"Moments\" has a very PR-ish ring to it.) These drops could happen as many as four times a year, \u003Cem\u003EWinCentral\u003C\u002Fem\u003E says. One of my contacts -- \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Ftechosarusrex\u002Fstatus\u002F1544779223801511939\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E@techosarusrex on Twitter\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- showed me last week his servicing search results, which revealed a possible \"Moment\" feature drop. He speculated this drop could be related to the 22622 Windows 11 test build that Microsoft made available to the beta channel last week. (See the screenshot from him embedded above in this post.) \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003ELike \u003Cem\u003EWindows Central\u003C\u002Fem\u003E, I had heard from one of my sources that the next \"major\" release of Windows client would be known as \"Next Valley,\" or NV. (Windows 11 was codenamed \"Sun Valley,\" or SV.) \u003Cem\u003EWindows Central\u003C\u002Fem\u003E says this client release is happening in 2024 now, not next year. I have not heard a target date for it myself. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThis report has me wondering about several things, none of which I'm sure Microsoft will explain right now:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWill these servicing changes also apply to Windows 10? If not, I think Microsoft is taking a big risk, as businesses which typically don't want multiple new features delivered willy-nilly may dig in their heels and hold off moving to Windows 11 as long as possible (if ever).\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHow will these changes, if and when they happen, affect the period of time for which Microsoft will offer support for various Windows releases? I'm assuming the Moment feature drops will not trigger a new support countdown clock, as this didn't happen with the February feature drop this year. Will Microsoft actually be extending the Windows support windows, so they last up to three years, timed with new \"major\" releases\"? Many IT folks would welcome that if it were the case. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWill Microsoft still offer its yearly Windows feature updates for Windows 10 and 11? This year, Windows 11 22H2 is still on the calendar for some time this fall, and we believe Windows 10 22H2 will show up around the same time, even though officials have said next-to-nothing about Windows 10's update schedule (beyond the fact that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-windows-10-is-a-security-disaster-waiting-to-happen\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esupport for Windows 10 ends in October 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.) From Windows Central's report, it sounds like the annual feature update schedule, announced just a year ago, may already be a thing of the past.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVendors wanting to maintain secrecy around new hardware releases is understandable. But when the majority of a company's customers are business users, similar secrecy -- especially around software and servicing -- is far less so. Businesses need predictability, and over the past year, predictability has been sorely lacking in the Windows space. Many in the Windows team seem to want Windows on PCs to move to the kind of feature update schedule that is accepted on phones and tablets. But this ignores the fact that businesses -- the biggest Windows PC constituency -- are not keen on this.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI will update this post if and when I hear back from Microsoft on the reported Windows servicing changes. I'm not holding my breath for anything beyond \"we have nothing to share,\" but stay tuned.\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpdate\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \"Microsoft has nothing to share regarding this speculation. Check out the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindowsexperience\u002F2022\u002F02\u002F15\u002Fbringing-you-closer-to-what-you-love-with-new-experiences-in-windows-11\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EFebruary Windows Experience blog\u003C\u002Fa\u003E from Panos for info on Windows' update cadence,\" a spokesperson said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-14 14:26:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft already had been muddying the waters around how and when it planned to bring new features to Windows. Now it sounds as if quarterly new feature 'Moments' updates between 'major' Windows client releases could become the newest servicing roadmap.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"8066e086-0df2-4e91-8bae-2c7e051f7c4c",image:{id:"fb186118-fb0c-430f-88b6-fb77a10a373d",filename:"newwin11servicingplan.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-07-14 14:25:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"newwin11servicingplan",credits:"Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F07\u002F14\u002Ffb186118-fb0c-430f-88b6-fb77a10a373d\u002Fnewwin11servicingplan.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:932,height:582,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-said-to-be-ready-to-shake-up-the-windows-update-schedule-again",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft said to be ready to shake up the Windows update schedule. Again",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"109dbc12-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"it-priorities",name:"IT Priorities",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"2a142269-ad72-4347-a8d7-cbab9a2f6346",username:"chris_matyszczyk",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Chris",lastName:"Matyszczyk",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"dc8b697c-2b0a-4b2d-8ce9-7ff431642a42",filename:"chris-matyszczyk.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:17:05",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fdc8b697c-2b0a-4b2d-8ce9-7ff431642a42\u002Fchris-matyszczyk.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Chris Matyszczyk is an award-winning creative director who now runs the consultancy Howard Raucous LLC. In 2013, Mediapost named him the Most Influential Person on Madison Avenue. His writing has been published all over the world, most recently on CNET.",profile:c,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"42ed18c3-08e3-453d-9a7b-454ea76dae09\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESome Windows laptops are lovely. Others, less so.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 11 laptop\" data-image-filename=\"windows-11-pro2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F13\" data-image-width=\"1368\" data-image-height=\"770\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-hybrid-work-revolution-is-within-our-reach-its-time-to-decide-what-we-want\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAt work\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, feelings matter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot just in the way that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fworried-about-quiet-quitting-these-dos-and-donts-could-stop-it-becoming-a-problem\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebosses manage employees\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and not just in the way employees treat each other.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeelings about technology are important too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou walk into a new job and discover a bright, shiny, state-of-the-art computer on your desk. There's that extra buzz of excitement as you sit in your tiny cubicle. Or your tiny space along a very large table.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis doesn't appear to be the case for project managers at Amazon.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI judge this from a \u003Cem\u003EBusiness Insider\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.businessinsider.com\u002Fformer-amazon-employees-who-work-at-google-share-horror-stories-2022-9\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eexposé\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in which former Amazon employees, now working for Google, talk about their past experiences at Jeff Bezos' happy camp.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Famazon-thought-this-was-a-clever-idea-the-world-just-shook-its-head\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAmazon thought this was a clever idea. The world just shook its head\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere were terrible stories of so-called frupidity. This is the glorious blend of frugality and stupidity that seems to infect too many companies. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most pungent complaints, however, came from a former Amazon product manager. It seems that Amazon didn't think these vital employees were worthy of \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"8061d0f8-5ee5-4ac1-b5e2-6e551b901bad\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"MacBooks\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Instead, they were given \"subpar Windows laptops.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F0b19438c-bed7-40a8-84c9-9a85920df167\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne can only wonder which particular laptops these might have been. One person's subpar is another person's \"works fine for me.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut this particular project manager described their pain like this: \"I found it ridiculous because there's no joy in \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c5cd2c84-d109-493a-9011-af8e984560f5\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fbusiness\u002Fdevices\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fwindows%2Fbusiness%2Fdevices\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Windows laptops\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and when there's no joy, no creativity happens, and when there's no creativity, what's a PM's worth?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-how-you-can-still-get-a-free-windows-10-upgrade\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYes, you can still get a free Windows 10 upgrade. Here's how\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI fear several reactions might be incited here.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong them: \"Product managers are supposed to be creative? No way. There's just supposed to make sure the job gets done.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOr perhaps: \"Joy? You expect joy when you're a product manager?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOr even: \"You expect joy? You work for Amazon?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOr maybe: \"You're not one of those raving, cultish \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhe-owns-150-macs-now-hes-created-the-one-thing-apple-fans-desperately-need\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple fanpersons\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, are you?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow much, though, of the product manager's observations might be based on perception and how much on reality?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhp-launches-a-laptop-in-a-way-even-apple-wouldnt-dare\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHP launches a laptop in a way even Apple wouldn't dare\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has fought the image of laborious stodginess by creating its own \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-october-12-surface-launch-whats-on-tap\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESurface brand\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. You might have many views about these devices, but substandard they're not. Creative, they largely are. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"e658c585-db33-46c8-918a-752729fe81da\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fe658c585-db33-46c8-918a-752729fe81da\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIndeed, the Surface brand was ahead of the Microsoft brand in standing for something different -- different from Windows' traditional, forced, business-brained dullness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut if a company insists that all you need is a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-cheap-windows-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Echeap Windows laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, what does that truly say?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe technology a company provides is a signal of respect for the job and the employee. It's also a signal of how the company sees itself -- especially if it's a tech company.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might be wondering, though, what Google is now providing this product manager. \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-chromebook-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChromebooks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E,\" I hear you mutter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo, it appears employees get a nice new \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with highly palatable specs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat must explain why \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgoogle-wants-more-old-style-business-attitude-hp-laughs-in-googles-face\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethere's so much joy at Google right now\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d9187ff5-288d-4569-8b5e-e4f0aa892d83\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd9187ff5-288d-4569-8b5e-e4f0aa892d83\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-09-25 12:00:02",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Do Windows laptops really make employees unhappy?",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"150bb14f-70c7-473a-9a67-b4732ff0d4f4",image:{id:"42ed18c3-08e3-453d-9a7b-454ea76dae09",filename:"windows-11-pro2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-13 16:50:25",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"windows 11 screen laptop",credits:"Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESome Windows laptops are lovely. Others, less so.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F13\u002F42ed18c3-08e3-453d-9a7b-454ea76dae09\u002Fwindows-11-pro2.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1368,height:770,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"theres-no-joy-in-windows-laptops-claims-macbook-loving-google-employee",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"There's no joy in Windows laptops, claims MacBook-loving Google employee",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1050fa4d-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"google",name:"Google",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a7ecc6fa-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Mary Jo Foley",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Mary Jo",lastName:"Foley",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94",filename:"mary-jo-foley.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:57:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F8215236b-63b7-491f-91ad-190439d0bf94\u002Fmary-jo-foley.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Mary Jo Foley has covered the tech industry for 30 years for a variety of publications, including ZDNET, eWeek, and Baseline. She is the author of Microsoft 2.0: How Microsoft plans to stay relevant in the post-Gates era (John Wiley & Sons, 2008). She also is the co-host of the \"Windows Weekly\" podcast on the TWiT network. \r\n\r\nGot a tip? Send her an email with your rants, rumors, tips, and tattles. Confidentiality guaranteed.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"90cd3f36-fd29-4a01-a3dc-cedfdeb89a23\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Credit: Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoftcloudpcadvertising\" data-image-filename=\"microsoftcloudpcadvertising.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F31\" data-image-width=\"1378\" data-image-height=\"1097\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn April this year, Windows officials talked about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-provides-a-glimpse-of-future-windows-11-and-cloud-pc-integrations\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eplans to more tightly integrate Windows 365 and Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. So far, they've delivered on one of their promises: A preview of the Windows 365 app that Windows 11 users can pin to their taskbars and Start menus to more easily access their cloud PCs. But Microsoft officials have much bigger plans for Windows 365 and seemingly are counting on it keep Windows relevant, even if the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fpc-sales-are-falling-what-does-that-mean-for-the-price-of-your-new-computer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPC industry declines\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in the coming months and years. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E As many users have noticed, Microsoft increasingly has been squeezing ads into everything from the new Windows 11 search box to the Edge browser (and its other apps). So perhaps it's not too surprising that Microsoft management is pitching Windows as a vehicle for delivering ads -- both first-party Microsoft \"house\" ads and third-party ads, as CEO Satya Nadella himself acknowledged during \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fview.officeapps.live.com\u002Fop\u002Fview.aspx?src=https:\u002F\u002Fc.s-microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002FCMSFiles\u002FTranscriptFY23Q1.docx?version=133e9c66-ae13-63c3-aad8-1bcfd5c6f0d4\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft's Q1 FY'23 earnings call\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. (Thanks to Paul Thurrott for pointing this out on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwit.tv\u002Fshows\u002Fwindows-weekly\u002Fepisodes\u002F800\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows Weekly\u003C\u002Fa\u003E last week.) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut there are even more sweeping plans for creating a new Windows business model, as evidenced in several recent job postings for \"the newly formed Windows Incubation team\" on Microsoft's career site. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat team is looking to tie together Windows and Windows 365 even more tightly by building \"a Web-based shell with direct integration with Windows 365.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe end game? Selling thin-client\u002Flow-cost devices to businesses and consumers and offsetting costs via ads and subscriptions. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmary-jo-foley-looks-back-on-a-momentous-16-years-of-covering-microsoft-for-zdnet\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMary Jo Foley on 16 epic years covering Microsoft for ZDNET\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom the job post: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The building blocks we create will chart \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcareers.microsoft.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fjob\u002F1436861\u002FPrincipal-Software-Engineering-Manager\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea new direction for the experience and business model of Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E - from low-cost PCs powered through advertising and subscriptions, to new direct-to-cloud hardware devices across work and life.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft made its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-brings-windows-to-the-cloud-with-windows-365-and-cloud-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 365\u002FCloud PC service (codenamed Deschutes) generally available in August of 2021\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Windows 365 is a cloud-based virtualization service that builds on top of and complements Azure Virtual Desktop. Windows 365 is for business users only at this point and costs anywhere from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-windows-365-cloud-pc-service-will-range-from-20-to-162-per-user-per-month\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$20 to $162 per user per month\u003C\u002Fa\u003E based on cores, RAM and storage. But given that the Windows 365 Business SKU can scale down to businesses with only one employee, it's not too surprising that Microsoft officials already are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fpetri.com\u002Fpodcast\u002Fmjfchat-windows-365-what-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethinking about how to deliver Windows 365 for consumers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E Microsoft quietly \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-adds-cloud-for-sovereignty-to-its-line-up\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emoved the Windows 365 team under Chief Product Officer and Windows chief Panos Panay\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in July. In addition to the Windows 365 App, the team is working on Windows 365 Boot, which will allow users to boot directly to their cloud PCs; Windows 365 Switch, which will allow users to move between their local and cloud PCs as easily as they can move between different desktops today; and Windows 365 Offline, the capability to resync with the Windows 365 service without data loss. Microsoft hasn't provided public delivery targets for any of these capabilities but did \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftechcommunity.microsoft.com\u002Ft5\u002Fwindows-events\u002Fwhat-s-new-and-how-to-deploy-windows-365-business\u002Fec-p\u002F3660520#M1776\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edemo the Switch feature during a \"Technical Takeoff\" virtual session\u003C\u002Fa\u003E last week. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E Meanwhile, Microsoft's WebXT organization, which includes \"several thousand software engineers\" working on Bing, Search, Edge, Maps, Ads, News and other products, is forging ahead with its own set of deliverables for consumers and enterprise users both. The team has been doing a lot of work in machine learning, speech, computer vision, and natural-language processing, which it has been folding into all of the products mentioned above. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E It seems like at least some customers are already wondering aloud if and when Microsoft and other PC makers will build thin-client-type devices meant to be used with Windows 365. Who knows ... Maybe there's a Surface Win365book on the road map somewhere? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1c484d26-6f31-48ab-8c73-282514bb76c1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-10-31 14:33:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Windows 365 and Microsoft's ad business both may have big roles to play in how Microsoft takes Windows forward.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"635fed4a-d374-42c6-85e1-e20628aced08",image:{id:"90cd3f36-fd29-4a01-a3dc-cedfdeb89a23",filename:"microsoftcloudpcadvertising.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-10-31 14:31:11",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"microsoftcloudpcadvertising",credits:"Credit: Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F31\u002F90cd3f36-fd29-4a01-a3dc-cedfdeb89a23\u002Fmicrosoftcloudpcadvertising.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1378,height:1097,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"whats-next-for-windows-cloud-integration-ad-and-subscription-powered-devices",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"What's next for Windows: Sweeping new strategy for cloud, ads, devices?",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11d72d67-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"virtualization",name:"Virtualization",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ecd0b44e-4aac-4eb4-81c5-581d7e204cdf\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you forget your password, you are indistinguishable from a hostile intruder and you will be treated as such, which means you will be locked out from your encrypted data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Digital generated image of data\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1197243194-digital-generated-image-of-data2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"2070\" data-image-height=\"1164\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDisk encryption is absolute magic to most non-mathematicians. And like any complex technology, it leads to uncomfortable questions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDoes encrypting a disk make it less likely that data can be recovered with utilities after a crash? Does encrypting the disk make it more likely to have errors and failures? Does encrypting the disk make it harder to transfer to a bigger boot disk? Just what are the pros and cons for the average PC user in a home or small business without a full-time IT department?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-encrypt-your-email-and-why-you-should\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to encrypt your email and why you should\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"5762da8d-c329-4f79-a304-b8283cabf0fb\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F5762da8d-c329-4f79-a304-b8283cabf0fb\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMake no mistake about it, disk encryption is a powerful security precaution. Using strong disk encryption means that your data is under your control and \u003Cem\u003Eonly\u003C\u002Fem\u003E your control. An unauthorized intruder who's able to gain access to that encrypted data but doesn't have proper sign-in credentials (your username and password) or a recovery key is able to see what looks like pure gibberish. And brute-force techniques aren't effective. Even with the assets of the world's most powerful intelligence agencies, it can take years or even centuries to crack that code and decrypt the underlying data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn PCs designed for Windows 10 and Windows 11, the system disk is encrypted by default, but that encryption uses a clear key. The encryption doesn't protect your data unless you sign in with a Microsoft account, which protects the data and also saves a recovery key in OneDrive. On PCs running the Pro and Enterprise editions of Windows, you can enable BitLocker Drive Encryption, which is capable of encrypting any disk, including removable drives such as USB flash drives.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-is-how-fast-a-ransomware-attack-encrypts-all-your-files\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis is how fast a ransomware attack encrypts all your files\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EModern Macs likewise offer built-in encryption using a feature called FileVault.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd now the bad news: If you forget the password or passphrase that is required to decrypt that data, the encryption software has no way to distinguish you from a hostile intruder, which means you are locked out from your encrypted data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's not a bug, it's a feature. A backdoor that would allow you to recover your data without the decryption key would also be available to an attacker, rendering the data protection useless.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut that's the \u003Cem\u003Eonly\u003C\u002Fem\u003E difference between an encrypted disk and one where the data is stored in the clear. If your drive or controller fails, resulting in data corruption, it doesn't matter whether the data is encrypted or not; you'll need a backup to recover the damaged files. And on modern hardware, encryption and decryption using the AES standard takes place in the CPU, which means that any impact on data transfer speeds is negligible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhich means your biggest challenge is to ensure that you have access to the backup encryption key for your device, for use only in the event of an emergency. On a Mac using Apple's FileVault encryption, you can store the recovery key in iCloud or locally (follow the instructions in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.apple.com\u002Fen-us\u002FHT204837\"\u003Ethis support article\u003C\u002Fa\u003E). For devices running Windows 10 or Windows 11, follow the instructions in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbitlocker-guide-how-to-use-this-windows-encryption-tool-to-protect-your-data\u002F\"\u003EZDNET's BitLocker FAQ\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-encrypt-a-folder-in-macos-to-keep-sensitive-data-from-prying-eyes\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to encrypt a folder in MacOS to keep sensitive data from prying eyes\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMake sure you store that recovery key in a safe place. If you can supply that key on demand, you have full access to the data on the encrypted disk.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"867a8602-6dd8-4cb6-b32e-449daea83709\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F867a8602-6dd8-4cb6-b32e-449daea83709\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-10-26 15:32:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Disk encryption is a powerful security precaution. Is there a downside to it? Here's what you need to know.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"c3d8746a-4b3e-4d3d-81b2-2535168f4f28",image:{id:"ecd0b44e-4aac-4eb4-81c5-581d7e204cdf",filename:"gettyimages-1197243194-digital-generated-image-of-data2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-05-18 18:38:04",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Digital generated image of data",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F05\u002F18\u002Fecd0b44e-4aac-4eb4-81c5-581d7e204cdf\u002Fgettyimages-1197243194-digital-generated-image-of-data2.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2070,height:1164,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"does-disk-encryption-slow-down-your-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Does disk encryption slow down your PC?",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"70a27718-986e-4ccd-b086-0f0d6a0a3308\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"apps sync to multiple devices\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-171241293-synced-pcs2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"4155\" data-image-height=\"2337\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bf1fc5fa-8a77-44cb-94d2-d2b56bcb14c3\" data-size=\"small\" data-float=\"right\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"ask-zd-270.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"ask-zd-270.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"270\" data-image-height=\"185\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWelcome to the latest installment of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fblog\u002Fask-zdnet\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAsk ZDNet\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, where we answer the questions that stump Alexa. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the mailbag this week: A reader works from two homes that are 1,000 miles apart. Is there a way to keep the content on his two PCs identical? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"946759d6-f849-4616-93ab-a0b1b18be44b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou're not alone in this request. Lots of people want to keep two PCs in sync (a desktop and laptop, usually) even when those PCs are in different rooms of the same house. It doesn't matter that your PCs are in two different states—the solution is still the same: Use the cloud.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How do I keep two PCs in sync when they're in different locations?\" data-superlative=\"I regularly travel between New York City and Miami Beach, where I have a second home. I have a desktop PC with a big monitor in each location. Is there a way to keep the content on these two PCs identical? My main email account is on Gmail. I have a Microsoft 365 Home account and also use Quicken along with some maritime and sailing and weather apps. I also have several thousand bookmarks.\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the software and cloud services you listed here, you're already most of the way to achieving most of what you want to do. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour Gmail account is already in the cloud with Google. You can send, receive, and review your email messages from anywhere, using a web browser or a dedicated email app. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"f4799f1a-47ab-4c7a-bad5-805647caecfc\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Ff4799f1a-47ab-4c7a-bad5-805647caecfc\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThousands of bookmarks? Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge as your default browser on both PCs, and then sign in with your Google account (for Chrome) or Microsoft account (for Edge) and let the browser take care of keeping your bookmarks in sync. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHaving a Microsoft 365 subscription gives you the right to install the Office desktop apps (Word, Excel, Outlook, and the rest) on up to five PCs. Go to the Office home page (\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ec2bd4a4-010c-414c-80ef-e32a4046e9d1\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.office.com\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.office.com\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E), sign in with your Microsoft account, and click the Install Office button. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore importantly, that Microsoft 365 subscription includes 1 TB of storage in OneDrive, which should be more than enough to keep all your data files in sync. If you add, edit, or delete a file on one PC, your changes will automatically synchronize across the Internet to your other PC. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll have to do a minimal amount of work to install the remainder of your apps on each PC, but that's a one-time task. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can streamline the synchronization process by setting up OneDrive so that your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders are automatically synced to the cloud. (You'll find this option on the Backup tab in the OneDrive Settings dialog box.) For your traditional apps that aren't cloud-aware, just put their data files in the Documents folder and let OneDrive take care of keeping them in sync. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd when all that's done, you'll have essentially identical PC setups in both your homes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgoogle-drive-vs-onedrive-which-one-is-better-for-your-business\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGoogle Drive vs. OneDrive: Which one is better for your business?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESend your questions to \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003Ca href=\"mailto:ask@zdnet.com\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003Eask@zdnet.com\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cem\u003E. Due to the volume of submissions, we can't guarantee a personal reply, but we do promise to read every letter and respond right here to the ones that we think our readers will care about. Be sure to include a working email address in case we have follow-up questions. We promise not to use it for any other purpose.  \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"734f1f41-08e0-4fd8-932e-a858274833f8\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F734f1f41-08e0-4fd8-932e-a858274833f8\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-06-10 11:04:26",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Got a tech question? Ed Bott and ZDNet's squad of editors and experts probably have the answer.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"99310ea0-9ab0-4234-9fa7-a9ba9334ed8a",image:{id:"70a27718-986e-4ccd-b086-0f0d6a0a3308",filename:"gettyimages-171241293-synced-pcs2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-08 19:24:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"apps sync to multiple devices",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F08\u002F70a27718-986e-4ccd-b086-0f0d6a0a3308\u002Fgettyimages-171241293-synced-pcs2.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4155,height:2337,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-do-i-keep-two-pcs-in-sync-when-theyre-in-different-locations-ask-zdnet",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How do I keep two PCs in sync when they're in different locations? [Ask ZDNet]",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"ef01233a-1673-4bcd-8b3d-f2ccfaf48cf0\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;Relax: If you reinstall Windows Pro, the activation servers will restore the activation without a squawk.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"user's head behind screen\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-107741308-users-head-behind-screen.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"5040\" data-image-height=\"2835\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are many reasons why you might want to use the reset option to give your Windows-based PC a fresh start. Maybe you've been running Insider preview releases and you want to return to the stability of the General Availability channel. Perhaps you're handing down an old PC to another family member and you want to clean off all traces of your old installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've spent the past week or two resetting an office full of Windows PCs, and one minor problem came up multiple times. When the reset was finished, I discovered that I was running Windows Home edition. That's the edition that was on this PC when I acquired it, but one of the first things I did was to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, and I have no idea where that product key is now.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwant-to-ditch-windows-windowsfx-may-be-the-ideal-linux-distribution-for-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWant to ditch Windows? Windowsfx may be the ideal Linux distribution for you\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is a surprisingly common occurrence, especially given how many PC makers try to shave a few dollars off the price of their hardware by installing the much less expensive Home edition. (Even Microsoft! The new Surface Pro 9, for example, is available only with Windows 11 Home edition.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen the OEM built that PC, it embedded the licensing information for the preinstalled Home edition in the BIOS of the system. When you do a full reset, that's the information that's used for the installation. As far as Windows is concerned, it's putting things back to where they were when you bought the system, based on the embedded version information it found.   \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that Microsoft's activation servers also contain details for your Windows Pro upgrade. When you entered the product key to perform that upgrade the first time, those servers created a second activation record along with a hash that identifies your system based on its unique hardware. If you reinstall Windows Pro on that system, even without a product key, the activation servers will restore the activation without a squawk. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"12875ebd-8bd1-4933-9db5-bce83a7b56fe\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"right\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Ed Bott\" data-image-alt-text=\"windows 11 activation screen\" data-image-filename=\"ask-zdnet-06-24-activation.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"671\" data-image-height=\"658\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this case, the simplest solution is to use Microsoft's generic product key for Windows Pro to quickly upgrade from Home to Pro. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGo to \u003Cstrong\u003ESettings > System > Activation.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Click to expand the section labeled \u003Cstrong\u003EUpgrade your edition of Windows,\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E and then click the button labeled \u003Cstrong\u003EChange\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E; it's just to the right of the \u003Cstrong\u003EChange product key\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E heading, as shown here. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnter this product key in the dialog box that appears next:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-3V66T\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFollow the prompts to complete the upgrade. After you restart and connect to the Internet, you should have a fully activated Windows Pro installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's nothing magical about that product key. If you use it to upgrade a system running Home edition that has never been activated for Windows 10 or Windows 11 Pro, you'll get an activation error, and the only way to recover is to enter a valid (Microsoft calls it \"genuine\") product key that entitles you to the upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you want to skip this song and dance in the future, try reinstalling from a bootable USB flash drive. When you run the setup, choose the option to skip entering a product key, which then lets you choose the exact edition you want to install.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F77635b39-fa40-48b8-b215-00cf0ab2ae6a\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-10-20 13:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"When you reset a PC that originally shipped with Windows 10 or Windows 11 Home edition, the activation process might restore that edition. Fortunately, it's easy to restore your Pro upgrade.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"3de49a67-5dad-44f2-952b-a2a215a84a7f",image:{id:"ef01233a-1673-4bcd-8b3d-f2ccfaf48cf0",filename:"gettyimages-107741308-users-head-behind-screen.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-16 18:02:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"user's head behind screen",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F16\u002Fef01233a-1673-4bcd-8b3d-f2ccfaf48cf0\u002Fgettyimages-107741308-users-head-behind-screen.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:5040,height:2835,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"when-i-reset-my-windows-pc-i-ended-up-with-home-edition-how-do-i-get-my-pro-upgrade-back",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"You reset your Windows PC and ended up with Home edition. Here's how to get your Pro upgrade back",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1e4902fd-38d7-495a-81e1-f85362c641b4\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto\" data-image-alt-text=\"Female holding credit card making online payment, closeup view\" data-image-filename=\"istock-1198265932.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2020\u002F09\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1365\" data-image-height=\"768\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's nothing quite like the sinking feeling in your stomach when you discover that someone has stolen your credit card information and begun using it online. Eventually, that feeling of astonishment is replaced by a seemingly endless series of steps as you try to recover from the damage. At a minimum, you have to get the compromised card replaced and then change all your online payments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIs there a way to minimize the risk that this will happen again?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor starters, realize that you probably have protections under existing laws. For cardholders in the United States, provisions in the Fair Credit Billing Act mean your actual losses are limited to $50, provided you notify the card issuer as soon as you become aware of any theft or unauthorized use. Most card issuers have fraud detection capabilities that will alert you immediately in the event of a suspicious transaction and protect you from any loss. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne important caveat here: These fraud protections do not apply to debit cards, even if the card has the logo of a major credit card issuer. The Electronic Fund Transfer Act offers similar protections if you report an unauthorized transaction within 48 hours, but after that you're on the hook for $500 in losses, and the limit vanishes completely if a fraud goes unreported for 60 days. (For details, see this FTC page: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fconsumer.ftc.gov\u002Farticles\u002Flost-or-stolen-credit-atm-debit-cards\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"Lost or Stolen Credit, ATM, and Debit Cards.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven with those protections, there's always a risk with any online transaction. Here's how to minimize your risk. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBe vigilant about sites where you use your card.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Make sure the page is secure and that the merchant is trustworthy. If you don't recognize the merchant or the site seems suspicious, think twice before entering your card details. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAvoid storing your card details unnecessarily.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E You can probably waive this precaution for top-tier merchants like Amazon and Apple, but it's really not that inconvenient to re-enter a card number for smaller merchants that you do business with occasionally. (Obviously, you can't avoid this for recurring payments.) \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUse Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or other digital wallets whenever possible.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Those systems use virtual account numbers tied to your device, which means in the event of compromise, your actual card number is not revealed. (For details on virtual card numbers, see these support documents from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.google.com\u002Fpay\u002Fanswer\u002F7643925?hl=en#zippy=%2Cvirtual-account-numbers\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGoogle\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fapple-pay\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.) \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECreate your own masked card.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E The free \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fprivacy.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPrivacy.com\u003C\u002Fa\u003E service, for example, lets you create virtual credit cards for specific merchants. Each virtual card looks like a standard credit card, but it's tied to your bank account or a credit card. You can assign per-transaction limits or set an overall maximum charge for one of these cards, making it impossible for an unscrupulous merchant to turn a small charge into a larger one without your consent. We've used this service and can recommend it enthusiastically. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to all that, be sure to install the mobile app for your credit card and turn on notifications. That way, in the unlikely event your card is compromised, you'll know immediately and can use the app to temporarily disable the card while you contact the issuer for help.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2022-07-15 16:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Having a credit card compromised is a major pain in the wallet. Fortunately, there are protections in U.S. law that limit your losses, and there are steps you can take to minimize the risk.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"f967050e-01ff-4278-975f-da97b0e6834a",image:{id:"2dadfeaf-f925-4014-bcb3-10111437c7dd",filename:"gettyimages-626530416-man-on-keyboard2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-06-06 16:22:08",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Upset man fingers on keyboard",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F06\u002F2dadfeaf-f925-4014-bcb3-10111437c7dd\u002Fgettyimages-626530416-man-on-keyboard2.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4296,height:2417,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-can-i-keep-my-credit-card-details-from-being-stolen-online-ask-zdnet",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to keep your credit card details from being stolen online",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"2c87ef21-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"jperlow",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Jason",lastName:"Perlow",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"8ee616a1-94ee-439e-9574-58f014ae5ef0",filename:"jason-perlow.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:08:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F8ee616a1-94ee-439e-9574-58f014ae5ef0\u002Fjason-perlow.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Jason Perlow is a technologist with over two decades of experience integrating large heterogeneous multi-vendor computing environments in Fortune 500 companies. His expressed views do not necessarily represent those of his employer, The Linux Foundation.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Writer",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThroughout the 36-year history of Microsoft Windows, we've had wildly popular releases such as Windows 3.1 (1992), which was the first to take off and jumpstarted the PC GUI revolution. We had Windows 95 (1995), the first Internet-enabled Windows out of the box, which had a built-in web browser, the ability to run 32-bit applications, and its iconic Start Menu that persists to this day. We had Windows XP (2001), the first consumer-facing, truly protected mode, multithreaded, preemptive multitasking 32-bit Windows operating system, which had the longest lifecycle of any Windows OS to date.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of these were successful releases, but we've also had some real clunkers as well. Some of these were early versions of technologies that were to be exploited in more refined iterations, later on, not yet ready for prime time. But some of these were just plain... bad. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe've presented these OS disasters chronologically -- not in the order of how much they suck. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6a109895-0506-40a9-b3ea-5b248e9347d7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft already had some experience with GUIs, having worked with Apple to develop applications for the Mac in 1984. So the company tried its hand at making its own GUI that would sit on top of DOS. It was a graphical multitasking shell that could also run DOS programs and apps specifically written for Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe press universally hated it because of performance-related issues and a lack of resources for new users. In addition, most PCs at the time couldn't run it because their hardware specifications weren't powerful enough. But hey, it was a 1.0 product.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows 1.0\" data-superlative=\"Release Date: November 1985\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cmwindows1-0jul15a.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"db9b07b8-1bd3-4451-9365-7bd336f4d7dd","title":"","filename":"cmwindows1-0jul15a.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002Fdb9b07b8-1bd3-4451-9365-7bd336f4d7dd\u002Fcmwindows1-0jul15a.jpg","caption":null,"size":218811,"width":620,"height":339,"dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-23 09:10:42","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2017-05-10 16:54:20","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"","alt":"cmwindows1-0jul15a.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"db9b07b8-1bd3-4451-9365-7bd336f4d7dd","imageAltText":"cmwindows1-0jul15a.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cmwindows1-0jul15a.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F23","imageWidth":620,"imageHeight":339,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3f34b079-8ee8-4720-8948-31c894103759\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWindows 2.10 came in two different flavors, one for the Intel 80286 16-bit processor and the other for the Intel 80386 32-bit processor. The 386 version allowed it to run in protected mode, above which applications and the GUI ran as a virtual task in the 8086 instruction set. This allowed it to have a limited form of preemptive multitasking, which was a significant technological improvement for PC OSes. MS-DOS could only run one application simultaneously; Windows 386 allowed DOS apps to run in the background instead of suspended, although timing-sensitive apps had issues.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, Windows 386 had significant stability issues. For example, its memory manager was incompatible with DOS memory managers, such as QEMM or the DOS Extenders needed by applications such as Lotus 1-2-3, the most popular spreadsheet. \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F1991s-pc-technology-was-unbelievable\u002F"\u003ESo that meant that if you wanted to use those apps, you would need a boot floppy and need to reboot into DOS to run them\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It's inconceivable now that end-users put up with this stuff, but we did. You also couldn't page out to virtual disk if you started to run out of memory. Some of these issues were rectified in Windows 3.0, which followed in 1990.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows\u002F386 2.10\" data-superlative=\"Release date: May 1988\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cmwindows2-0jul15b.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"a36d827e-fc1a-4895-9398-56aa39185e6a","title":"","filename":"cmwindows2-0jul15b.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002Fa36d827e-fc1a-4895-9398-56aa39185e6a\u002Fcmwindows2-0jul15b.jpg","caption":null,"size":196976,"width":512,"height":384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-23 09:39:10","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2017-05-10 16:54:20","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"","alt":"cmwindows2-0jul15b.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a36d827e-fc1a-4895-9398-56aa39185e6a","imageAltText":"cmwindows2-0jul15b.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cmwindows2-0jul15b.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F23","imageWidth":512,"imageHeight":384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"46e9c5e6-0856-4ef0-9fb9-e4516673f53e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAlthough this OS is the basis for the kernel that all modern versions of Windows currently are based on, this was a major sea change for the platform, and it had a rocky start. Initially started as a re-write of the OS\u002F2 3.0 operating system that IBM and Microsoft collaborated on, the two companies parted ways, and Microsoft decided to take Windows NT in its own direction, hiring Dave Cutler from DEC, the architect of the VMS operating system, to run the core development team. While the OS shared an identical Windowing interface with Windows 3.1, the popular business version of Windows that ran on top of DOS, the two systems were extremely different architecturally. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows NT was a native protected mode, multiprocessor-capable, multithreaded, multiuser, processor architecture-independent, true preemptive multitasking OS, but it needed to run Win32 apps written specifically to take advantage of those features. 16-bit Windows apps from Windows 3.1 could run on it, but they ran slowly and not very well -- and DOS compatibility was horrible. In addition, Windows NT 3.1 was expensive (the workstation version was $500), had substantial minimum hardware requirements for the time (a 386 processor and 12MB of memory), and ran best on non-Intel systems such as DEC Alpha and the MIPS. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows NT 3.1\" data-superlative=\"Release date: July 1993\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cmwindowsnt3-1jul15d.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJuly 27, 1993\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows NT was born from the wreckage of Microsoft's ill-fated OS\u002F2 partnership with IBM. It was built from the ground up under the leadership of ex-DEC software engineer Dave Cutler as a fully 32-bit pre-emptive multitasking, multithreaded, multiprocessing, multiuser operating system with a hybrid kernel and a hardware abstraction layer to facilitate porting between processor platforms. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt was initially developed for the Intel i860, whose N-Ten codename gave NT its name, although later marketing-led revisionism changed this to New Technology. NT variants have appeared on many CPU architectures, including IA-32, x86-64, Alpha, MIPS, PowerPC, ARM and Itanium. Its code base still underpins the current generation of Windows operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"d68dbae9-473d-4121-98ba-5d1243d4582a","title":"Windows NT 3.1","filename":"cmwindowsnt3-1jul15d.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002Fd68dbae9-473d-4121-98ba-5d1243d4582a\u002Fcmwindowsnt3-1jul15d.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJuly 27, 1993\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows NT was born from the wreckage of Microsoft's ill-fated OS\u002F2 partnership with IBM. It was built from the ground up under the leadership of ex-DEC software engineer Dave Cutler as a fully 32-bit pre-emptive multitasking, multithreaded, multiprocessing, multiuser operating system with a hybrid kernel and a hardware abstraction layer to facilitate porting between processor platforms. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt was initially developed for the Intel i860, whose N-Ten codename gave NT its name, although later marketing-led revisionism changed this to New Technology. NT variants have appeared on many CPU architectures, including IA-32, x86-64, Alpha, MIPS, PowerPC, ARM and Itanium. Its code base still underpins the current generation of Windows operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":176365,"width":620,"height":465,"dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-23 10:44:25","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2017-05-10 16:54:20","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Microsoft","alt":"cmwindowsnt3-1jul15d.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"d68dbae9-473d-4121-98ba-5d1243d4582a","imageAltText":"cmwindowsnt3-1jul15d.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJuly 27, 1993\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows NT was born from the wreckage of Microsoft's ill-fated OS\u002F2 partnership with IBM. It was built from the ground up under the leadership of ex-DEC software engineer Dave Cutler as a fully 32-bit pre-emptive multitasking, multithreaded, multiprocessing, multiuser operating system with a hybrid kernel and a hardware abstraction layer to facilitate porting between processor platforms. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt was initially developed for the Intel i860, whose N-Ten codename gave NT its name, although later marketing-led revisionism changed this to New Technology. NT variants have appeared on many CPU architectures, including IA-32, x86-64, Alpha, MIPS, PowerPC, ARM and Itanium. Its code base still underpins the current generation of Windows operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cmwindowsnt3-1jul15d.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F23","imageWidth":620,"imageHeight":465,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJuly 27, 1993\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows NT was born from the wreckage of Microsoft's ill-fated OS\u002F2 partnership with IBM. It was built from the ground up under the leadership of ex-DEC software engineer Dave Cutler as a fully 32-bit pre-emptive multitasking, multithreaded, multiprocessing, multiuser operating system with a hybrid kernel and a hardware abstraction layer to facilitate porting between processor platforms. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt was initially developed for the Intel i860, whose N-Ten codename gave NT its name, although later marketing-led revisionism changed this to New Technology. NT variants have appeared on many CPU architectures, including IA-32, x86-64, Alpha, MIPS, PowerPC, ARM and Itanium. Its code base still underpins the current generation of Windows operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8f1301c3-635f-418c-b7f8-e3944b7cfac1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWindows Millennium Edition, or ME, was introduced as an interim refresh of Windows 98 (a refresh of Windows 95) before the NT platform switchover to Windows XP. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt included updated versions of Internet Explorer and Windows Media player, which were add-ons for Windows 98 and Windows 95. While this sounded good on paper, Windows Me was heavily panned because it was unstable, lacked support for legacy real-mode apps that previous versions had, and did not exploit modern PC hardware the way Windows 2000, the business OS Microsoft was shipping at the time, did. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt wasn't until about a year later that the NT-based Windows XP shipped, which became the most successful version of Windows in history.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows Me\" data-superlative=\"Release date: September 2000\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cmwindowsmejul15i.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESeptember 14, 2000\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last of the DOS-based Windows 9x line, Millennium Edition is widely regarded as one of the worst Windows versions ever released.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlike Windows 95 and 98, it lacked real-mode DOS support, but did include the useful System Restore feature, which allowed users to take the system back to a previous stable configuration. Just as well, because the hurriedly released Windows ME was notorious for being buggy and crash-prone. It was quickly superseded by the far superior NT-based Windows XP.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMinimum system specifications for Windows ME were a 150MHz Pentium processor with 300MHz recommended, 32MB of RAM with 64MB recommended, and 320MB of hard disk space with 2GB recommended. It could address up to 1.5GB of RAM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"7f882e87-eff6-4501-8335-2956bf6d4077","title":"Windows ME","filename":"cmwindowsmejul15i.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002F7f882e87-eff6-4501-8335-2956bf6d4077\u002Fcmwindowsmejul15i.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESeptember 14, 2000\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last of the DOS-based Windows 9x line, Millennium Edition is widely regarded as one of the worst Windows versions ever released.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlike Windows 95 and 98, it lacked real-mode DOS support, but did include the useful System Restore feature, which allowed users to take the system back to a previous stable configuration. Just as well, because the hurriedly released Windows ME was notorious for being buggy and crash-prone. It was quickly superseded by the far superior NT-based Windows XP.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMinimum system specifications for Windows ME were a 150MHz Pentium processor with 300MHz recommended, 32MB of RAM with 64MB recommended, and 320MB of hard disk space with 2GB recommended. It could address up to 1.5GB of RAM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":18395,"width":457,"height":322,"dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-23 11:26:32","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2017-05-10 16:54:20","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Microsoft","alt":"cmwindowsmejul15i.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7f882e87-eff6-4501-8335-2956bf6d4077","imageAltText":"cmwindowsmejul15i.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESeptember 14, 2000\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last of the DOS-based Windows 9x line, Millennium Edition is widely regarded as one of the worst Windows versions ever released.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlike Windows 95 and 98, it lacked real-mode DOS support, but did include the useful System Restore feature, which allowed users to take the system back to a previous stable configuration. Just as well, because the hurriedly released Windows ME was notorious for being buggy and crash-prone. It was quickly superseded by the far superior NT-based Windows XP.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMinimum system specifications for Windows ME were a 150MHz Pentium processor with 300MHz recommended, 32MB of RAM with 64MB recommended, and 320MB of hard disk space with 2GB recommended. It could address up to 1.5GB of RAM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cmwindowsmejul15i.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F23","imageWidth":457,"imageHeight":322,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESeptember 14, 2000\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last of the DOS-based Windows 9x line, Millennium Edition is widely regarded as one of the worst Windows versions ever released.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlike Windows 95 and 98, it lacked real-mode DOS support, but did include the useful System Restore feature, which allowed users to take the system back to a previous stable configuration. Just as well, because the hurriedly released Windows ME was notorious for being buggy and crash-prone. It was quickly superseded by the far superior NT-based Windows XP.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMinimum system specifications for Windows ME were a 150MHz Pentium processor with 300MHz recommended, 32MB of RAM with 64MB recommended, and 320MB of hard disk space with 2GB recommended. It could address up to 1.5GB of RAM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7de1707f-9d0d-4c8e-8c82-e4b3aa21c274\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESimply mention "Windows Vista" in casual conversation in tech industry circles, and you will get laughs and snickers -- that's how bad a reputation this OS release had. Why was it so awful? High system requirements and onerous licensing terms, longer boot times, software compatibility issues, the use of new DRM technologies, and an extremely annoying and overly-prompting User Account Control feature made this release one tough pill to swallow were the top complaints at the time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile Vista gets a bad rap, many of the architectural changes introduced still exist in modern versions of Windows today, and Windows 7, one of the most successful Windows releases, is essentially a cleaned-up, streamlined Windows Vista.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows Vista\" data-superlative=\"Release date: January 2007\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJanuary 30, 2007\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows Vista had a convoluted gestation, a delayed birth and a relatively short life, and retains a reputation as a particularly ill-conceived Windows release.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe main complaints centred on security features, digital rights management, hardware requirements and performance, and software compatibility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a false start on the XP code base, Longhorn (Vista's codename) was built on Windows Server 2003 SP1, having jettisoned key features such as WinFS. Despite an extensive beta test program, general availability of Vista came too late for the key Christmas 2006 PC-buying period.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeatures that did ship included the Aero interface, which with the right hardware displayed transparent windows and other visual effects, and a redesigned Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"1db8b589-69ba-42e3-99c7-b277eb9cfac3","title":"Windows Vista","filename":"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002F1db8b589-69ba-42e3-99c7-b277eb9cfac3\u002Fcmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJanuary 30, 2007\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows Vista had a convoluted gestation, a delayed birth and a relatively short life, and retains a reputation as a particularly ill-conceived Windows release.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe main complaints centred on security features, digital rights management, hardware requirements and performance, and software compatibility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a false start on the XP code base, Longhorn (Vista’s codename) was built on Windows Server 2003 SP1, having jettisoned key features such as WinFS. Despite an extensive beta test program, general availability of Vista came too late for the key Christmas 2006 PC-buying period.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeatures that did ship included the Aero interface, which with the right hardware displayed transparent windows and other visual effects, and a redesigned Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":237190,"width":620,"height":465,"dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-23 13:36:25","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2017-05-10 16:54:20","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Microsoft","alt":"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"1db8b589-69ba-42e3-99c7-b277eb9cfac3","imageAltText":"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJanuary 30, 2007\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows Vista had a convoluted gestation, a delayed birth and a relatively short life, and retains a reputation as a particularly ill-conceived Windows release.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe main complaints centred on security features, digital rights management, hardware requirements and performance, and software compatibility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a false start on the XP code base, Longhorn (Vista's codename) was built on Windows Server 2003 SP1, having jettisoned key features such as WinFS. Despite an extensive beta test program, general availability of Vista came too late for the key Christmas 2006 PC-buying period.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeatures that did ship included the Aero interface, which with the right hardware displayed transparent windows and other visual effects, and a redesigned Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F23","imageWidth":620,"imageHeight":465,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJanuary 30, 2007\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows Vista had a convoluted gestation, a delayed birth and a relatively short life, and retains a reputation as a particularly ill-conceived Windows release.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe main complaints centred on security features, digital rights management, hardware requirements and performance, and software compatibility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a false start on the XP code base, Longhorn (Vista's codename) was built on Windows Server 2003 SP1, having jettisoned key features such as WinFS. Despite an extensive beta test program, general availability of Vista came too late for the key Christmas 2006 PC-buying period.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeatures that did ship included the Aero interface, which with the right hardware displayed transparent windows and other visual effects, and a redesigned Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7668808c-2c59-4fba-94ce-bb7a767302c5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile the core of the OS wasn't much different than Windows 7 -- by far the most successful Windows operating system in recent memory aside from Windows 10 -- the blocky, animated "Metro" user interface, with its live tiles and eschewed the popular "Start menu" certainly turned out to be a major disaster. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft tried to unify the Windows 8 interface with Metro on desktops and tablets, and even Windows Phone, but it didn't catch on. Live Tiles persisted in Windows 10 less prominently and are being unceremoniously ripped out in Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows 8\" data-superlative=\"Release date: August 2012\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"windows-8-x64-2012-03-01-08-51-03b.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOctober 25, 2012\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 8 came in three 32-bit and 64-bit x86 editions: Windows 8, W8 Pro and W8 Enterprise – plus a fourth, Windows RT for ARM-based systems. The Enterprise edition was only available to Software Assurance customers, and included the Windows To Go feature for creating secure bootable USB flash drives. Pro and Enterprise, which can join Active Directory domains, were the business-oriented editions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's primary focus for Windows 8 was to accommodate touchscreen devices such as tablets and laptop\u002Ftablet hybrids, which it did via the flat, tile-based interface formerly known as Metro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe traditional Windows 7-like Desktop, minus the Start button, was still present, but the system booted into the new-look Start screen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"fd6e534c-341d-417b-a3c8-385355673e37","title":"Windows 8","filename":"windows-8-x64-2012-03-01-08-51-03b.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002Ffd6e534c-341d-417b-a3c8-385355673e37\u002Fwindows-8-x64-2012-03-01-08-51-03b.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOctober 25, 2012\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 8 came in three 32-bit and 64-bit x86 editions: Windows 8, W8 Pro and W8 Enterprise – plus a fourth, Windows RT for ARM-based systems. The Enterprise edition was only available to Software Assurance customers, and included the Windows To Go feature for creating secure bootable USB flash drives. Pro and Enterprise, which can join Active Directory domains, were the business-oriented editions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's primary focus for Windows 8 was to accommodate touchscreen devices such as tablets and laptop\u002Ftablet hybrids, which it did via the flat, tile-based interface formerly known as Metro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe traditional Windows 7-like Desktop, minus the Start button, was still present, but the system booted into the new-look Start screen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":68535,"width":620,"height":465,"dateCreated":{"date":"2015-07-23 14:10:49","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2017-05-10 16:54:20","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"Microsoft","alt":"windows-8-x64-2012-03-01-08-51-03b.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"fd6e534c-341d-417b-a3c8-385355673e37","imageAltText":"windows-8-x64-2012-03-01-08-51-03b.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOctober 25, 2012\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 8 came in three 32-bit and 64-bit x86 editions: Windows 8, W8 Pro and W8 Enterprise – plus a fourth, Windows RT for ARM-based systems. The Enterprise edition was only available to Software Assurance customers, and included the Windows To Go feature for creating secure bootable USB flash drives. Pro and Enterprise, which can join Active Directory domains, were the business-oriented editions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's primary focus for Windows 8 was to accommodate touchscreen devices such as tablets and laptop\u002Ftablet hybrids, which it did via the flat, tile-based interface formerly known as Metro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe traditional Windows 7-like Desktop, minus the Start button, was still present, but the system booted into the new-look Start screen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Microsoft","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"windows-8-x64-2012-03-01-08-51-03b.png","imageDateCreated":"2015\u002F07\u002F23","imageWidth":620,"imageHeight":465,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOctober 25, 2012\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 8 came in three 32-bit and 64-bit x86 editions: Windows 8, W8 Pro and W8 Enterprise – plus a fourth, Windows RT for ARM-based systems. The Enterprise edition was only available to Software Assurance customers, and included the Windows To Go feature for creating secure bootable USB flash drives. Pro and Enterprise, which can join Active Directory domains, were the business-oriented editions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's primary focus for Windows 8 was to accommodate touchscreen devices such as tablets and laptop\u002Ftablet hybrids, which it did via the flat, tile-based interface formerly known as Metro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe traditional Windows 7-like Desktop, minus the Start button, was still present, but the system booted into the new-look Start screen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Microsoft\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"12c63f37-9e25-4235-997d-98ba95f89d91\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt may be too early to tell if Windows 11 is to become one of the most hated releases ever, as it hasn't even been released yet. But the signs aren't promising for many PC users running Windows 10 that hoped to take this upgrade with minimal impact: that's based on its current system requirements, including a Trusted Platform Module running at version 2.0 and the elimination of all Intel x86 systems Generation 7 and earlier. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese Intel chips shipped beginning in August 2016 and are still sold in retail channels, including Microsoft's Surface Studio systems. Unfortunately, so many PCs will be left out. To quote ZDNet columnist David Gewirtz, the affected systems will "\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-windows-11-means-well-be-stuck-with-millions-of-windows-10-zombies\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebecome the walking dead."\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReady or not, Windows 11 is on target to leave stranded hundreds of millions of systems on Windows 10 -- which will still be supported until January of 2025. The sheer amount of bad will created by a software upgrade that essentially doesn't seem like much more than a user interface update is \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwill-your-pc-run-windows-11-even-microsoft-cant-say-for-sure\u002F"\u003Erubbing many Microsoft diehards the wrong way.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windows 11\" data-superlative=\"Release date: Fall 2021\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"screen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ECan you hear it? Can you feel it?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by ZDNet","imageData":{"id":"283aee81-8d79-4812-b897-46d83ffa4b12","title":"screen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm","filename":"screen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F06\u002F10\u002F283aee81-8d79-4812-b897-46d83ffa4b12\u002Fscreen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ECan you hear it? Can you feel it?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":656716,"width":1606,"height":870,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-06-10 22:59:32","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-06-10 22:59:53","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"Screenshot by ZDNet","alt":"screen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"283aee81-8d79-4812-b897-46d83ffa4b12","imageAltText":"screen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003ECan you hear it? Can you feel it?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by ZDNet","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"screen-shot-2021-06-10-at-3-59-10-pm.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F06\u002F10","imageWidth":1606,"imageHeight":870,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003ECan you hear it? Can you feel it?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by ZDNet\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"gallery\" data-uuid=\"ac441591-0ba1-46c2-9c8a-ab675f762828\" data-float=\"none\" data-size=\"large\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDid we miss anything? And if we were to sort these by reputation -- from bad to worst -- what would the correct sort order be? \u003Cem\u003ETalkback\u003C\u002Fem\u003E below to let us know. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"codesnippet\" data-code=\"PGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vb3Blbi5zcG90aWZ5LmNvbS9lbWJlZC9lcGlzb2RlLzNDbXdqdjl2Y2hMY3VESmRhZzJLQjE\u002FdD0wIiB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxNTIiIGZyYW1lQm9yZGVyPSIwIiBhbGxvd3RyYW5zcGFyZW5jeT0idHJ1ZSIgYWxsb3c9ImVuY3J5cHRlZC1tZWRpYSI+PC9pZnJhbWU+\" data-encoding=\"base64\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2021-06-28 15:20:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Not every version would be as beloved as Windows XP or Windows 7. In our humble opinion, these are the seven worst Windows releases ever.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"8c7ed584-b5e7-49fd-a690-74f2a602c2fe",image:{id:"1db8b589-69ba-42e3-99c7-b277eb9cfac3",filename:"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2015-07-23 13:36:25",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"cmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg",credits:"Microsoft",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJanuary 30, 2007\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows Vista had a convoluted gestation, a delayed birth and a relatively short life, and retains a reputation as a particularly ill-conceived Windows release.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe main complaints centred on security features, digital rights management, hardware requirements and performance, and software compatibility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a false start on the XP code base, Longhorn (Vista's codename) was built on Windows Server 2003 SP1, having jettisoned key features such as WinFS. Despite an extensive beta test program, general availability of Vista came too late for the key Christmas 2006 PC-buying period.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeatures that did ship included the Aero interface, which with the right hardware displayed transparent windows and other visual effects, and a redesigned Start menu.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2015\u002F07\u002F23\u002F1db8b589-69ba-42e3-99c7-b277eb9cfac3\u002Fcmwindowsvistajul15l.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:620,height:465,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"most-hated-microsoft-windows-releases-a-retrospective",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows 11, the latest of Microsoft's most hated Windows releases. Too soon?",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:"Explore a fresh perspective",description:c,filters:c,paging:c,slug:"dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-analysis",title:"Analysis & Opinion",label:c,viewMoreText:c,viewMoreUrl:c,relatedItems:c},{id:"ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",meta:{componentName:"ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",componentDisplayName:"Latest",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002Fddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f"}},items:[{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Vaishnav K Suresh \u002F 500px \u002F Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"camera\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1394240632.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"4152\" data-image-height=\"2276\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter multiple delays, Microsoft has finally begun rolling out a preview of its controversial Recall feature for testing by members of the Windows Insider Program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature, which promises a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-new-recall-feature-lets-you-ask-ai-for-that-file-or-email-you-cant-find\u002F\"\u003E\"photographic memory\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for Windows 11 PCs, was originally announced as part of the rollout of the new AI-powered Copilot+ in June. After a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fafter-brutal-critiques-microsoft-recall-will-get-these-major-privacy-and-security-changes\u002F\"\u003Ebrutal firestorm of criticism from security experts\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the company delayed the feature so that sweeping privacy changes could be implemented.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell\u002F\"\u003ECan your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? How to tell\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat schedule change was followed by additional delays, with a rollout of the Recall preview pushed back to October. (For a detailed timeline, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fas-microsoft-breaks-awkward-silence-around-its-controversial-recall-feature-privacy-questions-remain\u002F\"\u003E\"As Microsoft breaks awkward silence around its controversial Recall feature, privacy questions remain.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) As October ended, the launch was \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-delays-its-troubled-ai-powered-recall-feature-yet-again\u002F\"\u003Edelayed one more time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, with the company citing the need for additional time to deliver \"a secure and trusted experience.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday's announcement comes in a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindows-insider\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002Fpreviewing-recall-with-click-to-do-on-copilot-pcs-with-windows-insiders-in-the-dev-channel\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elengthy post on the Windows Insider Blog\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that includes details on how to sign up for the Insider program and how to use Recall. Pointedly, the announcement recognizes \"the contributions of researchers and the security community in shaping Recall.\" It also includes this detailed description of how the feature is implemented in the new Windows 11 preview:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInsiders and Recall users, we want you to know your snapshots are truly yours. We do not send your snapshots off your PC to Microsoft or third parties, and don't use them for training purposes. Microsoft can't access the keys to view your encrypted data, so we can't restore your snapshots if you remove Windows Hello or restore your snapshots if you need to reset your PC or move to a new PC. We will in future updates provide ways for you to store a backup of your keys for these cases. For now, your Copilot + PC only releases the keys to use Recall if you show your face, fingerprint, or PIN.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this release, Microsoft says, it programmed Recall to detect \"sensitive information like credit card details, passwords, and personal identification numbers\" and block snapshots containing that information from being saved or stored. Testers can exclude specific apps and sites from being saved under any circumstances, and an option in Settings, which is off by default, allows testers to anonymously share details of apps and sites they prefer to be excluded from Recall.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Recall feature is included in Preview Build 26120.2415 (KB5046723), which is rolling out to users who are signed up for the Windows Insider Dev Channel.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor now, the feature is only available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs; support for Copilot+ PCs based on AMD and Intel processors will be available later, Microsoft says. For this preview, the only supported languages are Chinese (simplified), English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn PCs running Windows 11 Enterprise edition and on PCs managed by an IT administrator on work and school networks, the Recall feature will be removed by default. On those managed networks, employees who have enrolled in Windows Hello using biometric authentication can opt into the Recall feature. Administrators can block use of Recall completely or can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fclient-management\u002Fmanage-recall\"\u003Euse management tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to prevent saving snapshots from specific apps and websites. On managed networks, enterprises cannot access Recall data saved by an employee.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this build, Recall also includes the Click to Do feature, which adds AI-powered automated actions to text and images. The feature offers the ability to search, save, and edit text with a preferred app and to manipulate images using AI tools in the Photos and Paint apps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe blog post includes a lengthy list of known issues that testers are likely to encounter. The feature requires Secure Boot to be enabled, for example, and Microsoft recommends updating Microsoft 365 apps to the latest version before using Recall. Some users might experience lengthy delays in saving screenshots or a spurious error message; either issue can be resolved with a reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERecall can be enabled or disabled using the \"Turn Windows features on or off\" dialog; in this build, disabling the feature caches the binaries that control the feature. In a future update, Microsoft says, it will completely remove the feature when the option to turn it off is selected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the rocky nature of the initial announcement, Microsoft executives are likely holding their breath awaiting reactions from testers and the security community. That feedback will no doubt dictate the eventual release schedule, sometime in 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 18:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"What was supposed to be a signature feature of the AI-powered Copilot+ PCs for Windows 11 was delayed after a firestorm of privacy and security complaints. But it's ready for testing now, if you have the right hardware.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"43e632dd-f122-4040-bee2-f4d470f6c50c",image:{id:"62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277",filename:"gettyimages-1394240632.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 17:42:31",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"camera",credits:"Vaishnav K Suresh \u002F 500px \u002F Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277\u002Fgettyimages-1394240632.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4152,height:2276,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Describe what's shown in the image.\" data-image-filename=\"img-9752.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat's the deal?\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is currently 24% off on Amazon, selling for $106, down from its regular price of $140.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EZDNET's key takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is regularly priced at $140.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's a well-made, reliable docking station with a space-saving design that allows you to declutter your desk.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt doesn't have Thunderbolt support, and I wish the front LCD panel provided more information.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is no shortage of docking stations on the market, but they all have a common issue: they tend to be large and bulky. The assumption seems to be that everyone has ample desk space to dedicate a significant portion of their real estate to a dock.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gan-charger\u002F\"\u003EThe best GaN chargers you can buy: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat if you want to save space with a docking station or prefer a minimalist setup? Previously, this proved to be a rather ambitious ask until I came across a docking station that bridges both worlds: the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"396f67a7-7510-4c42-948b-3aaed9c410f5\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station combines connectivity with a space-saving form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis streamlined, minimal docking station extends your display across three monitors (in Windows) at a stunning 4K resolution via DisplayPort and HDMI ports.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Baseus","imageData":{"id":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","title":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","filename":"untitled-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002F988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533\u002Funtitled-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":211020,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Baseus","alt":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Baseus","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"untitled-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F02","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Baseus\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBaseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station tech specs\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPorts: 2 x HDMI (4K@60fps max), 2 x DisplayPort (4K@60fps max), USB-C and 2 x USB-A 10Gbps data ports, USB-A 2.0, 100W PD, 1Gbps Ethernet port with support for WOL (Wake On LAN) and PXE (Preboot eXecution Environment), 3.5mm auxiliary jack supporting 24bit\u002F96Hz\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEmbedded LED intelligent digital display\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESupport for three additional displays on Windows (MacOS supports one additional display)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E4.84 x 2.59 x 2.59 inches\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E1.07 pounds\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis dock takes a unique approach by adopting a tower configuration, which builds upwards rather than outwards, thus minimizing its footprint on your desk. To ensure stability and prevent it from toppling over and causing damage and mayhem, it features a detachable magnetic base equipped with a \"nano adhesive\" pad. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis design allows the dock to remain securely anchored to your desk while offering the flexibility to detach it from the base and take it with you. The detachable base is particularly useful for those who appreciate a tidy, space-efficient setup but still require the functionality of a full docking station.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fd063a46-f175-4741-9dd3-ce069ad4a474\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe detachable magnetic base is a clever design element.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Detachable magnetic base\" data-image-filename=\"img-9757.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe dock also features a front display with an at-a-glance operating status for each interface. While this is a nice touch, the information displayed is limited. It would be more useful if the display showed more details, such as connection speeds and power transfer data, to give users a better understanding of the dock's performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-gan-everything-you-need-to-know-about-gallium-nitride-charging-tech\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is GaN? Everything you need to know about gallium nitride-based charging tech\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, a screen lock button is on the top of the dock. You can quickly lock the display by tapping it once on Windows PCs or twice on Macs. This feature is particularly handy for creating instant privacy, ensuring that sensitive information can be swiftly and easily -- albeit rather obviously -- protected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs for the ports, these are what you'd expect from a docking station, offering a selection of USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort, HDMI, and 3.5 mm audio. There's also a fixed 12-inch braided cable -- long enough to be useful but short enough not to be unwieldy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f165c863-fa3b-4f1b-a4ed-7ed95581e9f9\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPorts, ports, ports!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Ports, ports, ports!\" data-image-filename=\"img-9756.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with all Baseus products that I've tested, this is a quality product made to appeal to a broad audience. In my hands-on experience with the device, I found that everything worked as promised on the spec sheets, and the dock is reliable in day-to-day use. I did notice that it got warm under a demanding load, but this only occurred when I was pushing it hard during testing and wasn't hot enough to worry about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e90d8d81-5004-4db3-bf8c-4e51cc881ec2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is normally priced at $140. Overall, this is a solid option for extending your USB-C port while keeping your desk tidy, and given the specs and build quality.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b4f4c6cb-3694-47f1-9d03-e700f2e9a788\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDeals are subject to sell-out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you at\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002F"\u003E ZDNET.com\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"When will these deals expire?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 15:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Baseus Spacemate docking station features a unique upright design that frees up precious desk space and has all the ports.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"bd8931fd-8465-431e-812a-ed9c70e01701",image:{id:"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c",filename:"img-9752.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-05-02 13:15:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station",credits:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002Ff32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\u002Fimg-9752.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday)",topic:{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Carlos Ruben Hernandez Blasco\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"moody keyboard\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1351537194.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"1999\" data-image-height=\"1499\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust when you thought it was safe to run Windows 11 24H2, along comes another glitch. Thankfully, this one is far from a showstopper. And you can easily get past it until Microsoft cooks up a fix.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs described on Microsoft's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#november-2024\"\u003Ewebpage for Windows 11, version 24H2 known issues and notifications\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, users without administrative privileges may be unable to change the time zone at the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings. Without admin rights, the time zone option fails to even appear.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell\u002F\"\u003ECan your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough this sounds like a minor issue, the ability to change the time zone does come in handy. New PCs typically come with the time zone set to Pacific time, requiring people outside the West Coast to change it. And if you're traveling with a laptop, you need to be able to switch the time zone to your ultimate destination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAssuming your account is not set up as an administrator, how do you handle this glitch until it's resolved?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the webpage, Microsoft explained that the bug is limited to the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings and isn't caused by changes to permissions, user policies, or Windows settings. That means you're still able to modify the time zone using an older but still reliable method.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Control Panel. In the search field at the top, type the phrase \"time zone.\" Among the search results, click the link for \"Change the time zone.\" That opens the older Date and Time window. From there, click the button for \"Change time zone\" and you can then switch it to the current zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, press Win key+R to open the Run dialog box. In the Open field, type timedate.cpl and click OK. The same older Date and Time window pops up allowing you to switch to a different time zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft said it's investigating the issue and will resolve it in an upcoming Windows update. For now, at least there's a simple enough workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-deals-2024\u002F\"\u003EThe 50+ best Black Friday deals 2024: Early sales live now\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the overall scheme of Windows 11 24H2 bugs, this is a small one. However, other bugs affecting this new version have been \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F\"\u003Emore serious and frustrating\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, causing Microsoft to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocks-windows-11-24h2-update-for-some-pcs-following-bug-onslaught\u002F\"\u003Epause the update for certain PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company did roll out a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F\"\u003Eseries of fixes on this month's Patch Tuesday\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which resolved most (but not all) of the outstanding issues. The Windows 11 2024 update seems safe enough to install now. Just be aware that the bug brigade for this version may not quite be done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 14:43:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"You can't change the time zone the usual way unless you have admin rights. Here's how to sneak past this glitch.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"f951682a-38f6-45e7-bbb4-eb91c6a0a34b",image:{id:"e2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367",filename:"gettyimages-1351537194.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 14:38:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"moody keyboard",credits:"Carlos Ruben Hernandez Blasco\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002Fe2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367\u002Fgettyimages-1351537194.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1999,height:1499,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows 11 24H2 hit by a brand new bug, but there's a workaround",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"joshblake\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"glowing laptop\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-183301913.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-crop=\"2000x1280+0+80\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen October 2025 rolls around, your old but still functional Windows 10 PC will no longer receive monthly security updates. And although you have a variety of options, the simplest solution is to upgrade that PC to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can, that is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is engaging in serious age discrimination against your Windows PCs these days. Even ancient PCs can run Windows 10, but not everyone can upgrade to the latest version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are well over 1 billion Windows PCs in the world today, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emost of them running Windows 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Where your PC fits in will define whether it can last another decade or if it's time to find a retirement home. You can sort yourself by asking one simple question: How old is that PC, exactly?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe date of purchase doesn't matter nearly as much as when the PC and its internal components were designed. And the most important of those components is the CPU. In Windows 10, you can discover that detail by running the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe. On the System Summary page, look for the Processor value, as in the example shown below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d34cf82f-b5fa-4c18-83b7-51d0e28fc451\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe System Information utility will tell you which CPU is in your old PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"find-your-processor-here\" data-image-filename=\"find-your-processor-here.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"781\" data-image-height=\"397\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArmed with that information, you can sort your PC into one of four buckets. Here's how to find out which one you're in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EModern PCs: 2019 or later\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPCs that were designed and built in 2019 or later can generally run Windows 11 with full support. Your machine is in this bucket if its CPU is on one of the following lists\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-intel-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Intel processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: The main list starts with Core 8th Generation parts, which debuted in early 2019. (A few older, 7th Gen CPUs are on the list, but they are mainly found in high-end business machines.)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-amd-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported AMD processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Most Ryzen and Epyc CPUs that were first shipped in 2019 or later are included here.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-qualcomm-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Qualcomm processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Arm-based PCs running a Snapdragon 850 or later are eligible to upgrade to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy design, every machine that includes one of the CPUs on this list will also include the other essential component that Windows 11 requires: a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrusted Platform Module\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (TPM) version 2.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003ECan't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your PC falls into this group, you can upgrade to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11\"\u003EWindows 11 Installation Assistant\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and it should be capable of performing well for another decade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your CPU isn't on any of those lists, you'll need to dig a little deeper. You can get some important clues about a CPU's age and capabilities by going to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fark.intel.com\u002Fcontent\u002Fwww\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fark.html#@Processors\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIntel's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amd.com\u002Fen\u002Fproducts\u002Fspecifications\u002Fprocessors.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAMD's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and searching for the part name (i7-11850H, for example).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 10: 2016-2019\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems unfair to call these PCs old. They're middle-aged at best and capable of performing just about any modern task.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAny system designed to meet the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program specifications during this period includes a TPM 2.0, although the CPU is almost certainly not on the list of Windows 11 supported parts. If you own one of these PCs, you can use Microsoft's documented procedure to upgrade to Windows 11 by making a simple registry edit. (You'll find the details under the \"Option1\" heading in this article: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese PCs are likely to run Windows 11 well, and even the oldest of the bunch should be useful for at least five more years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 7\u002F8: 2010-2015\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese machines are starting to show their age and can fairly be called senior citizens.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut just like humans, you can't judge their abilities by age alone. Some, especially those that were originally designed as high-end business PCs, might still be capable of delivering excellent performance; others deserve to be retired.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F\"\u003EFor Windows 11 setup, which user account type should you choose? How to decide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get the full picture, you need to look closely at what's inside and then answer two questions:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIs there a TPM of any kind?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany, but not all PCs from this era include a Trusted Platform Module, and even a TPM1.2 is enough to pass muster for Microsoft's upgrade workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho made the CPU?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlmost all mainstream Intel CPUs from this era can meet the new, more stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, version 24H2, which means you can probably use the \"official\" workaround with those PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf it's equipped with an AMD processor, however, prepare to be disappointed. AMD didn't begin fully supporting the SSE3.2 and PopCnt instructions until around 2013, and I've heard from numerous owners of AMD-powered PCs from this era that are unable to upgrade to Windows 11. (For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven on a machine without a TPM, you can use a utility like Rufus to work around the compatibility blocks. But those PCs are probably running on borrowed time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFrom the Dark Ages of the Windows PC: 2009 and earlier\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this era, Windows Vista was the target of every Get a Mac ad, and Windows XP was the workhorse. If you work at a large company, you're probably surrounded by people who have no experience at all with those operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're planning to upgrade one of these old-timers, don't get your hopes up. For the most part, it was too early for TPMs to be included on any but the most advanced (for their day) business computers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore problematic is the fact that Intel CPUs through 2009 didn't support the required streaming extensions and instructions that Windows 11, version 24H2 demands. Likewise, all AMD CPUs from this era are unable to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might run across a high-end PC from this era that squeaks in just under the wire, but it's the exception and not the rule. Your old PC from this era might still be capable of doing a few tricks, but it's unlikely that it will be doing so with Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can't stand to put that old workhorse out to pasture, you'll need to find a new OS. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-replace-windows-with-linux-mint-on-your-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELinux, anyone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 08:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Does your PC have a future or is it time to consider retirement options? Here's what to look for.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6bdd85d5-6fb3-4547-b8c1-b029a0c4c41b",image:{id:"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0",filename:"gettyimages-183301913.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 00:37:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"glowing laptop",credits:"joshblake\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\u002Fgettyimages-183301913.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jeenah Moon\u002FBloomberg via Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoft sign\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-2180913017.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"4000\" data-image-height=\"2667\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast summer's CrowdStrike meltdown caused billions of dollars in damage and exposed some fundamental architectural flaws in the Windows platform. A single flawed update from one vendor was enough to crash millions of PCs and servers worldwide, and getting those machines back online required direct human intervention on many of those endpoints, until an automated fix was deployed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-caused-the-great-crowdstrike-windows-meltdown-of-2024-history-has-the-answer\u002F\"\u003E\"What caused the great CrowdStrike-Windows meltdown of 2024? History has the answer.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn a blog post kicking off this week's Ignite conference, Microsoft VP of Enterprise and OS Security David Weston announced changes that should dramatically lessen the likelihood of another such meltdown. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday's announcements are the first tangible results from a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fat-microsofts-security-summit-experts-debated-how-to-prevent-another-global-it-meltdown-will-it-help\u002F\"\u003Ecooperative effort between Microsoft and the community of endpoint security vendors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that collectively bring in billions of dollars in revenue each year protecting business networks. Security product developers will be bound by a new set of Safe Deployment Practices that require them to do additional testing and to deliver product updates gradually; instead of pushing out updates to an entire installed base at once, security vendors will be expected to use deployment rings and monitoring tools to detect a flawed update and pause or roll back the deployment before it can do extensive damage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new feature called Quick Machine Recovery will make it easier for IT professionals to remotely repair a machine that's stuck in a reboot loop because of a bad update or driver. According to Microsoft, \"This feature will enable IT Administrators to execute targeted fixes from Windows Update on PCs, even when machines are unable to boot, without needing physical access to the PC.\" The feature leverages the Windows Recovery Environment and can be used to install fixes from Microsoft or from third parties. It will be available for testing through the Windows Insider Program in early 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fat-microsofts-security-summit-experts-debated-how-to-prevent-another-global-it-meltdown-will-it-help\u002F\"\u003E\"At Microsoft's security summit, experts debated how to prevent another global IT meltdown. Will it help?\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest change of all will allow developers to build security products that can operate in user mode instead of requiring kernel mode. The company says it will share a private preview with its partners in the security endpoint community in July 2025. Given the fundamental nature of that change, it's likely to be months or years before security products leveraging those changes are widely available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ENew security tools for Windows 11\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince the launch of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft has touted the new operating system's improved security, much of it attributable to new default settings that enable features that were optional in Windows 10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new round of security features scheduled to appear in Windows 11 over the next year will address more fundamental security concerns.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest security issue is that the overwhelming majority of Windows users run using an account with administrator privileges. If they're tricked into running a piece of malicious code, that malware has the same administrative rights, meaning it can install additional software and generally wreak havoc on the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe fix is a feature called Administrator Protection, which gives the user standard permissions by default. If they need to perform an action that requires administrator rights, such as installing an app or changing a system setting, they'll need to authenticate using Windows Hello biometrics or a device-specific PIN. That authorization creates a temporary token that is valid only for the current action and is destroyed as soon as the task is completed. Microsoft argues that this change will be \"disruptive to attackers as they no longer have automatic, direct access to the kernel or other critical system security without specific Windows Hello authorization.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fignite-2024-introduces-new-ai-agents-and-more-for-microsoft-365-copilot\u002F\"\u003EIgnite 2024 introduces new AI agents and more for Microsoft 365 Copilot\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe addition of Windows Hello is the game-changer here. Being able to authenticate using biometrics instead of having to enter a password should reduce the hassle factor dramatically. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature is in preview now and should be released to the public in 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA second feature, Smart App Control, is designed to block malware by preventing unknown apps from running on a Windows 11 PC. Apps that are well known will run without issue, but unsigned and unfamiliar apps will be prevented from running; the feature will also block all scripts from the internet, including those that try to leverage PowerShell as a vector for installing malware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmart App Control will be on by default for consumer PCs. In corporate environments, IT administrators will need to enable App Control for Business policies and select a \"signed and reputable policy\" template; they can then add internal apps using management tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Windows Protected Print mode eliminates the need for third-party print drivers, which have become an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-hackers-used-microsoft-signed-malicious-drivers-to-further-their-ransomware-attacks\u002F\"\u003Eaggressive and effective entry point\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for attackers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEnterprise edition gets new encryption and hotpatching\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor businesses that use Windows Enterprise edition, this week's announcements include a handful of new features that should make client PCs more secure and easier to manage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPersonal Data Encryption for known folders provides a double level of encryption for personal files on a user's PC in the so-called known folders -- Desktop, Documents, and Pictures. Accessing those files will require biometric authentication by the user, making it impossible for a device administrator to snoop in personal files. The feature uses the same enhanced encryption that will protect data collected by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-announces-sweeping-changes-to-controversial-recall-feature-for-windows-11-copilot-pcs\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows Recall\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and a Personal Data Encryption API will allow third-party developers to extend protection to their application's data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fcomputers-tech\u002Fmicrosofts-new-mini-pc-is-designed-for-the-office-heres-what-it-can-do\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's new mini PC is designed for the office. Here's what it can do\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother currently available feature, Configuration Refresh, will allow administrators to enforce security policy on devices when users or apps make changes to the Windows registry. The feature works locally and can reset the security configuration without requiring access to mobile device management servers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Hotpatch allows admins to apply critical security updates without requiring a reboot. Microsoft claims that using hotpatching with Windows Autopatch settings in Microsoft Intune can reduce the number of system restarts for Windows updates from once a month to just four times per year. The feature is currently in preview and will be available in Windows 11 Enterprise version 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-19 13:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Stung by last summer's CrowdStrike meltdown, which crashed Windows PCs and servers worldwide, Microsoft is rolling out a wide range of security changes to Windows. Here's what to expect over the next year",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"4c7d78c2-2742-4484-9ced-48dafc09181f",image:{id:"4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62",filename:"gettyimages-2180913017.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-19 13:11:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"microsoft sign",credits:"Jeenah Moon\u002FBloomberg via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F19\u002F4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62\u002Fgettyimages-2180913017.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4000,height:2667,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:c,description:c,filters:c,paging:c,slug:"dynamic-topic-listing-right-rail-basic-latest",title:"Latest",label:c,viewMoreText:c,viewMoreUrl:c,relatedItems:c},{id:"2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",meta:{componentName:"2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",componentDisplayName:c,componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29"}},items:[{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Vaishnav K Suresh \u002F 500px \u002F Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"camera\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1394240632.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"4152\" data-image-height=\"2276\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter multiple delays, Microsoft has finally begun rolling out a preview of its controversial Recall feature for testing by members of the Windows Insider Program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature, which promises a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-new-recall-feature-lets-you-ask-ai-for-that-file-or-email-you-cant-find\u002F\"\u003E\"photographic memory\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for Windows 11 PCs, was originally announced as part of the rollout of the new AI-powered Copilot+ in June. After a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fafter-brutal-critiques-microsoft-recall-will-get-these-major-privacy-and-security-changes\u002F\"\u003Ebrutal firestorm of criticism from security experts\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the company delayed the feature so that sweeping privacy changes could be implemented.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell\u002F\"\u003ECan your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? How to tell\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat schedule change was followed by additional delays, with a rollout of the Recall preview pushed back to October. (For a detailed timeline, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fas-microsoft-breaks-awkward-silence-around-its-controversial-recall-feature-privacy-questions-remain\u002F\"\u003E\"As Microsoft breaks awkward silence around its controversial Recall feature, privacy questions remain.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) As October ended, the launch was \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-delays-its-troubled-ai-powered-recall-feature-yet-again\u002F\"\u003Edelayed one more time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, with the company citing the need for additional time to deliver \"a secure and trusted experience.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday's announcement comes in a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindows-insider\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002Fpreviewing-recall-with-click-to-do-on-copilot-pcs-with-windows-insiders-in-the-dev-channel\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elengthy post on the Windows Insider Blog\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that includes details on how to sign up for the Insider program and how to use Recall. Pointedly, the announcement recognizes \"the contributions of researchers and the security community in shaping Recall.\" It also includes this detailed description of how the feature is implemented in the new Windows 11 preview:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInsiders and Recall users, we want you to know your snapshots are truly yours. We do not send your snapshots off your PC to Microsoft or third parties, and don't use them for training purposes. Microsoft can't access the keys to view your encrypted data, so we can't restore your snapshots if you remove Windows Hello or restore your snapshots if you need to reset your PC or move to a new PC. We will in future updates provide ways for you to store a backup of your keys for these cases. For now, your Copilot + PC only releases the keys to use Recall if you show your face, fingerprint, or PIN.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this release, Microsoft says, it programmed Recall to detect \"sensitive information like credit card details, passwords, and personal identification numbers\" and block snapshots containing that information from being saved or stored. Testers can exclude specific apps and sites from being saved under any circumstances, and an option in Settings, which is off by default, allows testers to anonymously share details of apps and sites they prefer to be excluded from Recall.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Recall feature is included in Preview Build 26120.2415 (KB5046723), which is rolling out to users who are signed up for the Windows Insider Dev Channel.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor now, the feature is only available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs; support for Copilot+ PCs based on AMD and Intel processors will be available later, Microsoft says. For this preview, the only supported languages are Chinese (simplified), English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn PCs running Windows 11 Enterprise edition and on PCs managed by an IT administrator on work and school networks, the Recall feature will be removed by default. On those managed networks, employees who have enrolled in Windows Hello using biometric authentication can opt into the Recall feature. Administrators can block use of Recall completely or can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fclient-management\u002Fmanage-recall\"\u003Euse management tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to prevent saving snapshots from specific apps and websites. On managed networks, enterprises cannot access Recall data saved by an employee.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this build, Recall also includes the Click to Do feature, which adds AI-powered automated actions to text and images. The feature offers the ability to search, save, and edit text with a preferred app and to manipulate images using AI tools in the Photos and Paint apps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe blog post includes a lengthy list of known issues that testers are likely to encounter. The feature requires Secure Boot to be enabled, for example, and Microsoft recommends updating Microsoft 365 apps to the latest version before using Recall. Some users might experience lengthy delays in saving screenshots or a spurious error message; either issue can be resolved with a reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERecall can be enabled or disabled using the \"Turn Windows features on or off\" dialog; in this build, disabling the feature caches the binaries that control the feature. In a future update, Microsoft says, it will completely remove the feature when the option to turn it off is selected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the rocky nature of the initial announcement, Microsoft executives are likely holding their breath awaiting reactions from testers and the security community. That feedback will no doubt dictate the eventual release schedule, sometime in 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 18:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"What was supposed to be a signature feature of the AI-powered Copilot+ PCs for Windows 11 was delayed after a firestorm of privacy and security complaints. But it's ready for testing now, if you have the right hardware.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"43e632dd-f122-4040-bee2-f4d470f6c50c",image:{id:"62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277",filename:"gettyimages-1394240632.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 17:42:31",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"camera",credits:"Vaishnav K Suresh \u002F 500px \u002F Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277\u002Fgettyimages-1394240632.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4152,height:2276,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Describe what's shown in the image.\" data-image-filename=\"img-9752.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat's the deal?\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is currently 24% off on Amazon, selling for $106, down from its regular price of $140.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EZDNET's key takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is regularly priced at $140.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's a well-made, reliable docking station with a space-saving design that allows you to declutter your desk.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt doesn't have Thunderbolt support, and I wish the front LCD panel provided more information.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is no shortage of docking stations on the market, but they all have a common issue: they tend to be large and bulky. The assumption seems to be that everyone has ample desk space to dedicate a significant portion of their real estate to a dock.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gan-charger\u002F\"\u003EThe best GaN chargers you can buy: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat if you want to save space with a docking station or prefer a minimalist setup? Previously, this proved to be a rather ambitious ask until I came across a docking station that bridges both worlds: the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"396f67a7-7510-4c42-948b-3aaed9c410f5\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station combines connectivity with a space-saving form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis streamlined, minimal docking station extends your display across three monitors (in Windows) at a stunning 4K resolution via DisplayPort and HDMI ports.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Baseus","imageData":{"id":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","title":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","filename":"untitled-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002F988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533\u002Funtitled-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":211020,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Baseus","alt":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Baseus","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"untitled-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F02","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Baseus\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBaseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station tech specs\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPorts: 2 x HDMI (4K@60fps max), 2 x DisplayPort (4K@60fps max), USB-C and 2 x USB-A 10Gbps data ports, USB-A 2.0, 100W PD, 1Gbps Ethernet port with support for WOL (Wake On LAN) and PXE (Preboot eXecution Environment), 3.5mm auxiliary jack supporting 24bit\u002F96Hz\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEmbedded LED intelligent digital display\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESupport for three additional displays on Windows (MacOS supports one additional display)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E4.84 x 2.59 x 2.59 inches\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E1.07 pounds\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis dock takes a unique approach by adopting a tower configuration, which builds upwards rather than outwards, thus minimizing its footprint on your desk. To ensure stability and prevent it from toppling over and causing damage and mayhem, it features a detachable magnetic base equipped with a \"nano adhesive\" pad. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis design allows the dock to remain securely anchored to your desk while offering the flexibility to detach it from the base and take it with you. The detachable base is particularly useful for those who appreciate a tidy, space-efficient setup but still require the functionality of a full docking station.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fd063a46-f175-4741-9dd3-ce069ad4a474\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe detachable magnetic base is a clever design element.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Detachable magnetic base\" data-image-filename=\"img-9757.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe dock also features a front display with an at-a-glance operating status for each interface. While this is a nice touch, the information displayed is limited. It would be more useful if the display showed more details, such as connection speeds and power transfer data, to give users a better understanding of the dock's performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-gan-everything-you-need-to-know-about-gallium-nitride-charging-tech\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is GaN? Everything you need to know about gallium nitride-based charging tech\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, a screen lock button is on the top of the dock. You can quickly lock the display by tapping it once on Windows PCs or twice on Macs. This feature is particularly handy for creating instant privacy, ensuring that sensitive information can be swiftly and easily -- albeit rather obviously -- protected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs for the ports, these are what you'd expect from a docking station, offering a selection of USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort, HDMI, and 3.5 mm audio. There's also a fixed 12-inch braided cable -- long enough to be useful but short enough not to be unwieldy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f165c863-fa3b-4f1b-a4ed-7ed95581e9f9\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPorts, ports, ports!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Ports, ports, ports!\" data-image-filename=\"img-9756.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with all Baseus products that I've tested, this is a quality product made to appeal to a broad audience. In my hands-on experience with the device, I found that everything worked as promised on the spec sheets, and the dock is reliable in day-to-day use. I did notice that it got warm under a demanding load, but this only occurred when I was pushing it hard during testing and wasn't hot enough to worry about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e90d8d81-5004-4db3-bf8c-4e51cc881ec2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is normally priced at $140. Overall, this is a solid option for extending your USB-C port while keeping your desk tidy, and given the specs and build quality.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b4f4c6cb-3694-47f1-9d03-e700f2e9a788\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDeals are subject to sell-out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you at\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002F"\u003E ZDNET.com\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"When will these deals expire?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 15:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Baseus Spacemate docking station features a unique upright design that frees up precious desk space and has all the ports.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"bd8931fd-8465-431e-812a-ed9c70e01701",image:{id:"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c",filename:"img-9752.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-05-02 13:15:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station",credits:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002Ff32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\u002Fimg-9752.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday)",topic:{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Carlos Ruben Hernandez Blasco\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"moody keyboard\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1351537194.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"1999\" data-image-height=\"1499\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust when you thought it was safe to run Windows 11 24H2, along comes another glitch. Thankfully, this one is far from a showstopper. And you can easily get past it until Microsoft cooks up a fix.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs described on Microsoft's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#november-2024\"\u003Ewebpage for Windows 11, version 24H2 known issues and notifications\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, users without administrative privileges may be unable to change the time zone at the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings. Without admin rights, the time zone option fails to even appear.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell\u002F\"\u003ECan your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough this sounds like a minor issue, the ability to change the time zone does come in handy. New PCs typically come with the time zone set to Pacific time, requiring people outside the West Coast to change it. And if you're traveling with a laptop, you need to be able to switch the time zone to your ultimate destination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAssuming your account is not set up as an administrator, how do you handle this glitch until it's resolved?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the webpage, Microsoft explained that the bug is limited to the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings and isn't caused by changes to permissions, user policies, or Windows settings. That means you're still able to modify the time zone using an older but still reliable method.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Control Panel. In the search field at the top, type the phrase \"time zone.\" Among the search results, click the link for \"Change the time zone.\" That opens the older Date and Time window. From there, click the button for \"Change time zone\" and you can then switch it to the current zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, press Win key+R to open the Run dialog box. In the Open field, type timedate.cpl and click OK. The same older Date and Time window pops up allowing you to switch to a different time zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft said it's investigating the issue and will resolve it in an upcoming Windows update. For now, at least there's a simple enough workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-deals-2024\u002F\"\u003EThe 50+ best Black Friday deals 2024: Early sales live now\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the overall scheme of Windows 11 24H2 bugs, this is a small one. However, other bugs affecting this new version have been \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F\"\u003Emore serious and frustrating\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, causing Microsoft to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocks-windows-11-24h2-update-for-some-pcs-following-bug-onslaught\u002F\"\u003Epause the update for certain PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company did roll out a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F\"\u003Eseries of fixes on this month's Patch Tuesday\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which resolved most (but not all) of the outstanding issues. The Windows 11 2024 update seems safe enough to install now. Just be aware that the bug brigade for this version may not quite be done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 14:43:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"You can't change the time zone the usual way unless you have admin rights. Here's how to sneak past this glitch.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"f951682a-38f6-45e7-bbb4-eb91c6a0a34b",image:{id:"e2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367",filename:"gettyimages-1351537194.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 14:38:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"moody keyboard",credits:"Carlos Ruben Hernandez Blasco\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002Fe2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367\u002Fgettyimages-1351537194.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1999,height:1499,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows 11 24H2 hit by a brand new bug, but there's a workaround",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"joshblake\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"glowing laptop\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-183301913.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-crop=\"2000x1280+0+80\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen October 2025 rolls around, your old but still functional Windows 10 PC will no longer receive monthly security updates. And although you have a variety of options, the simplest solution is to upgrade that PC to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can, that is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is engaging in serious age discrimination against your Windows PCs these days. Even ancient PCs can run Windows 10, but not everyone can upgrade to the latest version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are well over 1 billion Windows PCs in the world today, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emost of them running Windows 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Where your PC fits in will define whether it can last another decade or if it's time to find a retirement home. You can sort yourself by asking one simple question: How old is that PC, exactly?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe date of purchase doesn't matter nearly as much as when the PC and its internal components were designed. And the most important of those components is the CPU. In Windows 10, you can discover that detail by running the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe. On the System Summary page, look for the Processor value, as in the example shown below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d34cf82f-b5fa-4c18-83b7-51d0e28fc451\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe System Information utility will tell you which CPU is in your old PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"find-your-processor-here\" data-image-filename=\"find-your-processor-here.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"781\" data-image-height=\"397\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArmed with that information, you can sort your PC into one of four buckets. Here's how to find out which one you're in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EModern PCs: 2019 or later\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPCs that were designed and built in 2019 or later can generally run Windows 11 with full support. Your machine is in this bucket if its CPU is on one of the following lists\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-intel-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Intel processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: The main list starts with Core 8th Generation parts, which debuted in early 2019. (A few older, 7th Gen CPUs are on the list, but they are mainly found in high-end business machines.)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-amd-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported AMD processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Most Ryzen and Epyc CPUs that were first shipped in 2019 or later are included here.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-qualcomm-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Qualcomm processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Arm-based PCs running a Snapdragon 850 or later are eligible to upgrade to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy design, every machine that includes one of the CPUs on this list will also include the other essential component that Windows 11 requires: a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrusted Platform Module\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (TPM) version 2.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003ECan't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your PC falls into this group, you can upgrade to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11\"\u003EWindows 11 Installation Assistant\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and it should be capable of performing well for another decade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your CPU isn't on any of those lists, you'll need to dig a little deeper. You can get some important clues about a CPU's age and capabilities by going to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fark.intel.com\u002Fcontent\u002Fwww\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fark.html#@Processors\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIntel's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amd.com\u002Fen\u002Fproducts\u002Fspecifications\u002Fprocessors.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAMD's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and searching for the part name (i7-11850H, for example).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 10: 2016-2019\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems unfair to call these PCs old. They're middle-aged at best and capable of performing just about any modern task.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAny system designed to meet the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program specifications during this period includes a TPM 2.0, although the CPU is almost certainly not on the list of Windows 11 supported parts. If you own one of these PCs, you can use Microsoft's documented procedure to upgrade to Windows 11 by making a simple registry edit. (You'll find the details under the \"Option1\" heading in this article: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese PCs are likely to run Windows 11 well, and even the oldest of the bunch should be useful for at least five more years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 7\u002F8: 2010-2015\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese machines are starting to show their age and can fairly be called senior citizens.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut just like humans, you can't judge their abilities by age alone. Some, especially those that were originally designed as high-end business PCs, might still be capable of delivering excellent performance; others deserve to be retired.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F\"\u003EFor Windows 11 setup, which user account type should you choose? How to decide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get the full picture, you need to look closely at what's inside and then answer two questions:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIs there a TPM of any kind?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany, but not all PCs from this era include a Trusted Platform Module, and even a TPM1.2 is enough to pass muster for Microsoft's upgrade workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho made the CPU?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlmost all mainstream Intel CPUs from this era can meet the new, more stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, version 24H2, which means you can probably use the \"official\" workaround with those PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf it's equipped with an AMD processor, however, prepare to be disappointed. AMD didn't begin fully supporting the SSE3.2 and PopCnt instructions until around 2013, and I've heard from numerous owners of AMD-powered PCs from this era that are unable to upgrade to Windows 11. (For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven on a machine without a TPM, you can use a utility like Rufus to work around the compatibility blocks. But those PCs are probably running on borrowed time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFrom the Dark Ages of the Windows PC: 2009 and earlier\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this era, Windows Vista was the target of every Get a Mac ad, and Windows XP was the workhorse. If you work at a large company, you're probably surrounded by people who have no experience at all with those operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're planning to upgrade one of these old-timers, don't get your hopes up. For the most part, it was too early for TPMs to be included on any but the most advanced (for their day) business computers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore problematic is the fact that Intel CPUs through 2009 didn't support the required streaming extensions and instructions that Windows 11, version 24H2 demands. Likewise, all AMD CPUs from this era are unable to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might run across a high-end PC from this era that squeaks in just under the wire, but it's the exception and not the rule. Your old PC from this era might still be capable of doing a few tricks, but it's unlikely that it will be doing so with Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can't stand to put that old workhorse out to pasture, you'll need to find a new OS. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-replace-windows-with-linux-mint-on-your-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELinux, anyone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 08:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Does your PC have a future or is it time to consider retirement options? Here's what to look for.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6bdd85d5-6fb3-4547-b8c1-b029a0c4c41b",image:{id:"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0",filename:"gettyimages-183301913.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 00:37:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"glowing laptop",credits:"joshblake\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\u002Fgettyimages-183301913.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jeenah Moon\u002FBloomberg via Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoft sign\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-2180913017.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"4000\" data-image-height=\"2667\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast summer's CrowdStrike meltdown caused billions of dollars in damage and exposed some fundamental architectural flaws in the Windows platform. A single flawed update from one vendor was enough to crash millions of PCs and servers worldwide, and getting those machines back online required direct human intervention on many of those endpoints, until an automated fix was deployed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-caused-the-great-crowdstrike-windows-meltdown-of-2024-history-has-the-answer\u002F\"\u003E\"What caused the great CrowdStrike-Windows meltdown of 2024? History has the answer.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn a blog post kicking off this week's Ignite conference, Microsoft VP of Enterprise and OS Security David Weston announced changes that should dramatically lessen the likelihood of another such meltdown. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday's announcements are the first tangible results from a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fat-microsofts-security-summit-experts-debated-how-to-prevent-another-global-it-meltdown-will-it-help\u002F\"\u003Ecooperative effort between Microsoft and the community of endpoint security vendors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that collectively bring in billions of dollars in revenue each year protecting business networks. Security product developers will be bound by a new set of Safe Deployment Practices that require them to do additional testing and to deliver product updates gradually; instead of pushing out updates to an entire installed base at once, security vendors will be expected to use deployment rings and monitoring tools to detect a flawed update and pause or roll back the deployment before it can do extensive damage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new feature called Quick Machine Recovery will make it easier for IT professionals to remotely repair a machine that's stuck in a reboot loop because of a bad update or driver. According to Microsoft, \"This feature will enable IT Administrators to execute targeted fixes from Windows Update on PCs, even when machines are unable to boot, without needing physical access to the PC.\" The feature leverages the Windows Recovery Environment and can be used to install fixes from Microsoft or from third parties. It will be available for testing through the Windows Insider Program in early 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fat-microsofts-security-summit-experts-debated-how-to-prevent-another-global-it-meltdown-will-it-help\u002F\"\u003E\"At Microsoft's security summit, experts debated how to prevent another global IT meltdown. Will it help?\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest change of all will allow developers to build security products that can operate in user mode instead of requiring kernel mode. The company says it will share a private preview with its partners in the security endpoint community in July 2025. Given the fundamental nature of that change, it's likely to be months or years before security products leveraging those changes are widely available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ENew security tools for Windows 11\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince the launch of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft has touted the new operating system's improved security, much of it attributable to new default settings that enable features that were optional in Windows 10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new round of security features scheduled to appear in Windows 11 over the next year will address more fundamental security concerns.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest security issue is that the overwhelming majority of Windows users run using an account with administrator privileges. If they're tricked into running a piece of malicious code, that malware has the same administrative rights, meaning it can install additional software and generally wreak havoc on the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe fix is a feature called Administrator Protection, which gives the user standard permissions by default. If they need to perform an action that requires administrator rights, such as installing an app or changing a system setting, they'll need to authenticate using Windows Hello biometrics or a device-specific PIN. That authorization creates a temporary token that is valid only for the current action and is destroyed as soon as the task is completed. Microsoft argues that this change will be \"disruptive to attackers as they no longer have automatic, direct access to the kernel or other critical system security without specific Windows Hello authorization.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fignite-2024-introduces-new-ai-agents-and-more-for-microsoft-365-copilot\u002F\"\u003EIgnite 2024 introduces new AI agents and more for Microsoft 365 Copilot\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe addition of Windows Hello is the game-changer here. Being able to authenticate using biometrics instead of having to enter a password should reduce the hassle factor dramatically. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature is in preview now and should be released to the public in 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA second feature, Smart App Control, is designed to block malware by preventing unknown apps from running on a Windows 11 PC. Apps that are well known will run without issue, but unsigned and unfamiliar apps will be prevented from running; the feature will also block all scripts from the internet, including those that try to leverage PowerShell as a vector for installing malware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmart App Control will be on by default for consumer PCs. In corporate environments, IT administrators will need to enable App Control for Business policies and select a \"signed and reputable policy\" template; they can then add internal apps using management tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Windows Protected Print mode eliminates the need for third-party print drivers, which have become an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-hackers-used-microsoft-signed-malicious-drivers-to-further-their-ransomware-attacks\u002F\"\u003Eaggressive and effective entry point\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for attackers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEnterprise edition gets new encryption and hotpatching\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor businesses that use Windows Enterprise edition, this week's announcements include a handful of new features that should make client PCs more secure and easier to manage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPersonal Data Encryption for known folders provides a double level of encryption for personal files on a user's PC in the so-called known folders -- Desktop, Documents, and Pictures. Accessing those files will require biometric authentication by the user, making it impossible for a device administrator to snoop in personal files. The feature uses the same enhanced encryption that will protect data collected by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-announces-sweeping-changes-to-controversial-recall-feature-for-windows-11-copilot-pcs\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows Recall\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and a Personal Data Encryption API will allow third-party developers to extend protection to their application's data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fcomputers-tech\u002Fmicrosofts-new-mini-pc-is-designed-for-the-office-heres-what-it-can-do\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's new mini PC is designed for the office. Here's what it can do\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother currently available feature, Configuration Refresh, will allow administrators to enforce security policy on devices when users or apps make changes to the Windows registry. The feature works locally and can reset the security configuration without requiring access to mobile device management servers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Hotpatch allows admins to apply critical security updates without requiring a reboot. Microsoft claims that using hotpatching with Windows Autopatch settings in Microsoft Intune can reduce the number of system restarts for Windows updates from once a month to just four times per year. The feature is currently in preview and will be available in Windows 11 Enterprise version 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-19 13:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Stung by last summer's CrowdStrike meltdown, which crashed Windows PCs and servers worldwide, Microsoft is rolling out a wide range of security changes to Windows. Here's what to expect over the next year",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"4c7d78c2-2742-4484-9ced-48dafc09181f",image:{id:"4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62",filename:"gettyimages-2180913017.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-19 13:11:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"microsoft sign",credits:"Jeenah Moon\u002FBloomberg via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F19\u002F4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62\u002Fgettyimages-2180913017.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4000,height:2667,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2182300f-96d1-40c8-a74d-6efba81ebaf0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"PM Images\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"ladder out of a hole\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1186948007-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"2119\" data-image-height=\"1415\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUpdate: As of October 1, 2024, Microsoft has made it more difficult to bypass these compatibility checks, but there are workarounds for most modern PCs. Some older devices, especially those built using AMD processors, might be out of luck, however. I've updated the instructions in this post to account for the changes. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn October 14, 2025, Microsoft will \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Estop delivering security updates\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-you-still-get-a-windows-10-upgrade-for-free\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 10 PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E unless you're willing to pay an exorbitant price to join the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EExtended Security Updates program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EYou can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you try to upgrade to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 on a PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that's more than a few years old, you'll be told -- in no uncertain terms -- that your old PC doesn't qualify because its CPU isn't on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-microsoft-stands-firm-on-hardware-requirements\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eofficial list of compatible processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that it will not revise those requirements. You will also hit roadblocks if your PC doesn't have a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrusted Platform Module\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (TPM) version 2.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat might be the official policy, but -- as with everything Windows-related -- it pays to read the fine print. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose pesky restrictions prevent you from automatically upgrading to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Yet there are fully supported workarounds for most PCs that are capable of running Windows 10, as I document in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EZDNET's Windows 11 FAQ\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it\u002F\"\u003EYou can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, everything in this article requires that you be signed in as an administrator on the PC you want to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhich option should you choose?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlease don't skip over this section. \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003ETo take advantage of the workaround described in option 1 below, your computer must meet all the other requirements for Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt must be configured to start up using UEFI, not a legacy BIOS configuration.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESecure Boot must be supported, although it does not need to be enabled. (But seriously, folks, you should enable it.)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA TPM must be enabled; version 1.2 is OK, but a system without any TPM or with the TPM disabled will fail.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo check these details on a PC you're considering upgrading, run the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe, and look at the System Summary page. Pay special attention to the BIOS Mode value. If it says \"Legacy,\" you'll need to reconfigure your system to UEFI mode (and convert your system disk from MBR to GPT partitioning) before you can install Windows 11 as a normal upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo see whether your PC has a TPM enabled, run the Trusted Platform Module Management tool, Tpm.msc. If your computer includes a TPM and it's turned on, this app will display information about it. If there's no TPM, or if the TPM is disabled in firmware settings, you'll see a message that says \"Compatible TPM cannot be found.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're unable (or unwilling) to change from Legacy BIOS to UEFI, or if you have an older PC that doesn't have a TPM option at all, you'll need to use an undocumented hack that allows you to bypass the compatibility checks and complete the upgrade. See option 2 at the end of this post for details on how to use the free Rufus utility to perform this upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote that a new set of restrictions, introduced as part of the Windows 11, version 24H2 update, require a CPU that supports specific instructions -- SSE4.2 and PopCnt. Most PCs with Intel CPUs that are from 2009 or later will meet this standard. AMD CPUs from 2013 or later should also meet these requirements. For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you plan to perform a clean installation of Windows 11, you can boot from installation media and run Windows Setup. That option skips the CPU compatibility check completely (but still requires a TPM and Secure Boot support). After the installation completes, you'll need to reinstall all your apps, restore your data files, and tweak settings to personalize your system preferences.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWant to avoid all that hassle? Choose the option that's appropriate for your hardware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOption 1: Use this simple registry edit\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBypass CPU checks and accept any TPM version with this registry edit. This process requires four steps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"888bd165-d90a-4148-8800-dc8a730c5c36\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou need to make one small change to the Windows registry, as documented in this&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fways-to-install-windows-11-e0edbbfb-cfc5-4011-868b-2ce77ac7c70e" target="_blank"\u003EMicrosoft support document\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This change tells the Windows 11 Setup program to skip the check for compatible CPUs and to allow installation on a PC with an older TPM (version 1.2). The usual warnings apply when working with the registry; I recommend you make a complete backup before proceeding.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Registry Editor (Regedit.exe) and navigate to the following key:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SYSTEM\\Setup\\MoSetup\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf the MoSetup key, doesn't exist, you need to create it. Right-click the node for HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SYSTEM\\Setup in the left-hand navigation pane, then choose New &gt; Key. Name it MoSetup and press Enter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwiping-your-windows-laptop-heres-the-simplest-way-to-erase-all-personal-data\u002F"\u003EWiping your Windows laptop? Here's the simplest way to erase all personal data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESelect the MoSetup key and then right-click in any empty space in the pane on the right. Choose the option to create a new DWORD value. (Don't choose the QWORD option!)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReplace the default name for that key by typing the text AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU and then press Enter. Then double-click the new value and change the "Value data" box to 1. The result should look like this:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Change one key in the Windows registry\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6f063136-4e4f-4669-a37f-124401072378\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EUse this registry tweak to override the Windows 11 CPU compatibility check. You must have a TPM (any version) and Secure Boot must be enabled.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"override-compatibility-check-windows11.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"override-compatibility-check-windows11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"831\" data-image-height=\"450\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick OK to save your change, and then restart your PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4fa35e65-55ca-46e0-86cf-0c88573fd967\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOn the PC you want to upgrade, go to the Windows 11 Download page (\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FDownloadWindows11" target="_blank"\u003Eaka.ms\u002FDownloadWindows11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) and choose the option at the bottom of the page, "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices." Save the ISO file in your Downloads folder.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote that this is a big file. Depending on the speed of your internet connection, the download could take a while.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Download the Windows 11 ISO\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0674775e-9275-4ab6-abba-1fd40f53318f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter the download completes, open File Explorer and double-click the ISO file you downloaded in the previous step. Doing so mounts the file as a virtual DVD drive in its own folder, with its own drive letter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Mount the ISO file in File Explorer\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ae50379a-5aab-490e-9e8a-d5bc51e1df20\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn File Explorer, find the Setup.exe file and double-click it to begin the upgrade. You'll see a stern warning about compatibility issues, but you can safely click Accept to move past it. (For details on what that warning message really means, see \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E"Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?"\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) After you click OK on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F"\u003EThe best Windows laptop you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll have three options: You can keep your apps, settings, and files (Full Upgrade); keep your data files but start fresh with apps and settings (Keep Data Only); or start completely fresh (Clean Install).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Run Windows Setup\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOption 2: Use the free Rufus utility \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn older PCs without a TPM and on PCs that don't support Secure Boot, you'll need to use an undocumented hack to bypass the compatibility checker. You can do this manually by replacing the Appraiserres.dll file (in the Sources subfolder on the Windows 11 installer drive) with a zero-byte version and then making a series of registry edits. But it's simpler to use the free, open-source Rufus utility to make a USB drive that includes this file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EImportant note: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EIn early October 2024, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-cracks-down-on-windows-11-upgrades-for-incompatible-pcs-but-theres-a-fix-for-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft made some changes\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to its compatibility checking tools. Those changes prevent Rufus version 4.5 or earlier from working properly. Make sure you have version 4.6 or later, which incorporates the necessary changes. For details of how the new version works, see \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-just-released-tool-can-get-the-job-done\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This just-released tool can get the job done.\"\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003Cem\u003EIn addition, be aware that using Rufus will not allow you to bypass the new CPU restrictions that require SSE4.2 and PopCnt instruction support.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\"\u003EWhy Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get started, you'll need to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FDownloadWindows11\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edownload the Windows 11 ISO\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and supply a USB flash drive of at least 16 GB in size. You will reformat this drive as part of the process, so back up any data on that drive first.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDownload Rufus \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Frufus.ie\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efrom the developer's site\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and run the app. (The version of Rufus available \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002FproductId\u002F9PC3H3V7Q9CH?ocid=pdpshare\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efrom the Microsoft Store\u003C\u002Fa\u003E will not work for this task.)   \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChoose the USB drive and then choose the \"Disk or ISO image\" option.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick the Select button, choose the Windows 11 ISO you downloaded earlier, and then click Start.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn the Windows User Experience dialog, select the first checkbox to remove hardware requirements, as shown in the screenshot below.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick OK to begin creating the drive.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6461781a-5548-4161-bf1f-2af52221e86e\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EBe sure to choose the top checkbox here to bypass the compatibility check for the Windows 11 upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"rufus-windows-compatibility\" data-image-filename=\"rufus-windows-compatibility.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"548\" data-image-height=\"724\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter Rufus successfully creates your installer, open that USB drive in File Explorer, and double-click Setup. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs is the case with the other option, you'll see a warning about compatibility issues. It's a scare tactic. (For details on what that warning message really means, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\"Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?\"\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) After you click Accept on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy ZDNET colleague Lance Whitney has more details on the other options available with Rufus in \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\"  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you've tried this upgrade, I want to hear about your experience. If it worked, please share the details. If you run into snags, send me an email so we can figure out what's going wrong. Be sure to include details -- the make and model of your PC and screenshots of any error messages. I've set up a special inbox just for this feedback: Win11Upgrade [at] realworldwindows.com.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published on April 9, 2022, but has been updated multiple times since then. It was last updated on November 18, 2024. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-18 08:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft has added more roadblocks, but there are workarounds for many models. Here's how you can find out whether your Windows 10 PC can bypass the latest restrictions and safely upgrade to Windows 11 - for free.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6c7b382c-7102-4138-a0bb-4a3eac1b1db7",image:{id:"2182300f-96d1-40c8-a74d-6efba81ebaf0",filename:"gettyimages-1186948007-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-18 00:20:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"ladder out of a hole",credits:"PM Images\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F18\u002F2182300f-96d1-40c8-a74d-6efba81ebaf0\u002Fgettyimages-1186948007-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2119,height:1415,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-gaming-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E have been through a number of evolutions in terms of form factor, transforming from big, heavy, and quite ugly beige boxes that took up a lot of desk space to something no bigger than a hardback book that packs enough power to handle all but the most demanding of workloads.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESay hello to the mini PC: A PC that's just as comfortable tucked behind a TV, popped on a shelf, or hidden in a cupboard as it is sitting on a desk. These mini PCs pack a punch and have everything that you could want from a modern PC -- and take up the least amount of space possible. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe best power banks: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best mini PC right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've tested and researched the current mini PC offerings on the market, examining specs and paying close attention to user reviews, and my top pick for the best mini PC is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"68d9ad17-5a1c-4592-8643-def928eb2c40\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Whether you want a mini PC for the home, office, or meeting room, this is a solid choice. But I understand that this might not be for everyone, so I've picked a handful more mini PCs, each aimed at a specific use case.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best mini PCs of 2024\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2869633c-add8-4055-9874-55f85096cf8a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to mini PCs, it's hard to beat a mini PC built to the Intel NUC specs. I've owned and tested a number of them myself, and have been very happy with them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith this model, we have a system running a 16-core Core i7 chip that can power up to 3.7 GHz with a built-in Iris Xe GPU. Backing that is 32GB of RAM and 1TB M.2 SSD. That's quite a spec for a system that you can hold in the palm of your hand. As for ports, this system has a multitude of USB ports, along with Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and Ethernet.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs mini PCs go, this one is overkill for most, but if you are looking for a really powerful system that runs whisper-quiet and can be mounted behind a TV or put on a shelf, this is the system for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the price of this system, there aren't a lot of reviews for it, but the ones that have been written by owners are overwhelmingly positive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1360P | Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 1x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Intel\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8","title":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon-mini-pc","filename":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8\u002Fintel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":49519,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:47:42","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:47:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Intel\u002FZDNET","alt":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Intel\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Intel\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-Frequency-i7-1360P-Graphics-4-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB0C778B8P1","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Powerful ~Quiet ~Excellent reviews\" data-dislike=\"~Expensive\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78000d68-5c97-40b9-95c5-77631010cc05\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EJust when you thought this list would only include Windows systems, we've got the Mac Mini. This was one of the original mini PCs, and with the switch to Apple Silicon processors, it has seen a new lease of life.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConsidered at one point the gateway Mac that got people over to MacOS from Windows (because they could replace their Windows PC with the Mac Mini and keep using their existing keyboard, mouse, and monitor with their new Mac), it's now a staple of the Mac lineup, and the perfect choice for those who want a compact system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've owned a few different Mac Mini systems over the years, and I've been more than satisfied by them. They're reliable, well-built, and run cool and quiet. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest downside to this system is upgrading -- bottom line, this Mac will live and die with the same processor, RAM, and storage that it left the factory with. If you want to give it a storage boost, Satechi makes a hub\u002Fstand for it that adds a bunch of ports and a port for an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-m2-ssd\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM.2 SSD\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I'd expect from an Apple product, the reviews are strongly positive, with users reporting that they are happy with the performance and overall reliability of the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApple 2023 Mac mini tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Apple Silicon M2 processor with 8 CPU cores, 10 GPU cores | 8GB RAM | 256GB storage | 2x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jck | MacOS 14 Sonoma\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Apple Mac Mini (2023)\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for those who want a Mac\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Apple\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a","title":"Apple Mac mini desktop, M2 chip","filename":"p.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F07\u002F66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a\u002Fp.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":35783,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-07 10:48:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-07 10:48:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Apple","alt":"Apple Mac mini desktop, M2 chip","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Apple\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"p.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Apple\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver%2F6427500.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver\u002F6427500.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver%2F6427500.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmac-mini&subId1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmac-mini","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmac-mini&subId1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Powerful ~Close to silent ~Excellent Apple build quality\" data-dislike=\"~Runs MacOS (although you can run Windows on it using virtualization) ~Limited upgrade options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fbcf7c40-812b-49b2-b8f7-1337da4ec796\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis is a tiny mini PC that is a cube measuring 72 x 72 x 44.5mm, weighing only 206g. Inside the cube is a 4-core Intel N5105 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128HB M.2 SSD running Windows 10 Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite the tiny size, this mini PC features a handful of USB ports, two HDMI ports, an audio jack, and an Ethernet port. This system has no problems running two 4K@60FPS displays for maximum productivity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd yet given the power, this system is quiet and very energy efficient (using only 10W), making it a great choice for someone who wants a PC for the home, office, or meeting room, or even to drive digital signage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReviewers of this system comment on the performance and overall value of the system, and it's an outstanding system for the price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGMKtec Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 11th Generation Intel N5105 | Intel UHD Graphics | 8GB DDR4 RAM | 128GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, USB-C, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, TF\u002FmicroSD slot, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"GMKtec Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for those who want a truly mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"d9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca","title":"gmktec-mini-pc","filename":"gmktec-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002Fd9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca\u002Fgmktec-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":56667,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:50:59","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:51:05","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"gmktec-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"d9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"gmktec-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Tiny ~Powerful enough to drive two 4K displays\" data-dislike=\"~Not fanless, so may become a little noisy when pushed with heavy workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"49f53d39-1f54-40fc-9b80-19ea978fa6e3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis mini PC has a few features that set it apart from the competition. While dual HDMI isn't all that rare, finding a system with dual Ethernet and dual M.2 slots is, and finding one with a built-in filter to keep dust out of the innards is even rarer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe price of this system makes it a perfect choice for those who want a cheap yet powerful mini PC -- as long as you're not running AAA-title games or other heavy workloads, this system has you covered.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe only con to this system is that it runs the older 12th-gen Intel silicon, but for $300, this is still a system that both holds its own and won't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 12th Generation Intel N200 | Intel UHD Graphics 32EUS | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, 2x Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReviews of this system are strongly positive, with owners praising the power and performance of the system, and how quiet it is in day-to-day use.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Beelink EQ13 Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best budget mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f","title":"beelink-mini-pc","filename":"beelink-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f\u002Fbeelink-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":67398,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:52:30","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:52:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"beelink-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"beelink-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Dual HDMI ~Dual Ethernet ~Dual M.2 slots ~Dust filter to keep the fan and insides clean\" data-dislike=\"~Older, 12th-generation processors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78c885fe-2858-4700-80df-904a0a8908f7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis mini PC describes itself as a gaming system, and with good reason. The combination of AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX and AMD Radeon 680M GPU gives this system a lot of horsepower to tackle a variety of workloads, from work to games.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt also throws away the design rulebook. While most mini PCs are cube-like, this one is an upright tent shape. While that might seem like purely a design choice, it does in fact make opening up the system to carry out upgrades a snap as the side panel is held in place with magnets. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis system features a power dial on the top to switch it between silent mode, auto, and performance, depending on whether you want power or silence. It also includes a multitude of LED lights, which you might love or hate. If you love them, great, if not, there's an app that turns them off for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the lights aside, this is the perfect mini PC for those looking for a gaming system but who don't want to have a huge box on their desk or beside their TV. There's no harder set of people to please than gamers, which is why it's quite reassuring to find strong reviews for this gaming mini PC.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EAMD Ryzen 9 6900HX | AMD Radeon 680M GPU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProThis is a mini PC that breaks a lot of the rules.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"AceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for gamers\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"placeholder-product-image-for-best-lists.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6","title":"acemagician-mini-pc","filename":"ace-magician-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6\u002Face-magician-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":75137,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:55:47","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:55:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"ace-magician-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6","imageAltText":"placeholder-product-image-for-best-lists.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ace-magician-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FACEMAGICIAN-Mini-Gaming-Ryzen-6900HX\u002Fdp\u002FB0D3KWGKRD","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~A mini PC that legitimately describes itself as a gaming system ~Powerful AMD processor and GPU ~Convenient dial for switching between power modes\" data-dislike=\"~Different shape ~LED lights might be annoying\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8e068ed3-abb4-472a-a2c2-1ca8604bcf1d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMini PC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$949\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Core i7-1360P\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32GB DDR4&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2TB M.2 NVMe SSD \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple 2023 Mac Mini\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$499\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple Silicon M2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple Silicon M2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E256GB SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMacOS 14 Sonoma\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGMKtec Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$140\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel N5105&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel UHD Graphics\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E128GB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$299\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel N200\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel UHD Graphics 32EUS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E16GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E500GB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$570\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAMD Ryzen 9 6900HX&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAMD Radeon 680M\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1TB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"65474b26-90c2-4eee-bda5-a005bcbe6f10\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChoose this mini PC…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you want…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea general-purpose mini PC. The Intel NUC PCs continue to be the best all-around mini PCs on the market. Yes, there are better, faster, cheaper systems out there, but these systems have continually impressed me over the years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple 2023 Mac mini\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Eto go with MacOS. The Mac Mini used to be the way that Windows PC users would start to make the transition over to Mac. Nowadays, they are all-purpose desktop computers that are perfect for anyone who doesn't want a portable system, from students to developers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGMKtec Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea truly tiny PC. This is one of the smallest systems I've seen, but it packs quite a punch, hitting well above its size and weight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea mini PC with a difference. This mini PC breaks the mold: not only does it have a special dust filter to keep out debris, it also has 2 Ethernet ports, and two M.2 slots to compliment the two HDMI ports.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea proper mini gaming PC. Here you have a full gaming PC packed into a tiny footprint. Sure, there are going to be desktop systems that are way more powerful than this system, but for the size, you'll be hard-pressed to find anything faster.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right mini PC for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a6b61a7d-64b5-4cc4-bf4a-8cfbff854ee8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn many ways, choosing a mini PC is much like a regular PC. There are all the usual performance, price, and support for all your peripherals to keep in mind. But if you are after a mini PC, then the mini part does come into play, so there is a size issue to bear in mind. The good news is that mini PCs come in a range of sizes, from systems that can fit in the palm of your hand to systems so small you could fit several of them in the palm of your hand.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDo you need a mini PC? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThis is the top question when choosing a mini PC. Do you actually need one, or do you just need a regular PC?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESize\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: This really is the differentiator when it comes to mini PCs. Do you want a PC that's the size of a biscuit tin, or something significantly smaller?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Pretty standard PC consideration here. What do you want your system to do? Do you want to carry out general PC tasks like word processing and spreadsheets and browsing the web, or do you have more specialist needs in mind, such as gaming?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBudget\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Small doesn't always mean cheap, but you can save money by choosing a mini PC that suits your needs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPorts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most mini PCs come with a decent array of ports, but if you need something like two Ethernet ports or a bunch of USB ports, you need to ensure you're getting the right mini PC for you.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"023f67f2-1e4e-4603-921c-efe3f9fdd0e9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThere are a lot of mini PCs on the market from a variety of different vendors, and I've tested and used mini PCs from all the vendors listed here, I've based my selections on my experience using these brands, as well as current model user reviews.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProduct specs and price also come into play, but being able to draw on dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of other people's views allows me to get a broad sense of how well-received a selected mini PC is. I've paid particular attention to reports of performance, stability, how quiet or noisy the PC is, and weeded out many that seemed to have a poor lifespan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat we're left with is the best of the best, in a broad selection of categories that are applicable to mini PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these mini PCs?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e338db83-da68-4ce6-9398-b4683b088f84\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA mini PC is a compact yet fully functional computer that offers many, if not all of, the capabilities of a desktop PC, but is packaged into a smaller form factor. Mini PCs are designed to save space and can be used for a variety of tasks, from basic computing to more demanding applications such as programming or even gaming.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d19732e9-2115-46ee-bd0c-8d50d410ef31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPeople often choose to invest in a mini PC for these reasons:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESpace-saving:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The top benefit of going for a mini PC is that it takes up significantly less space than traditional desktop PCs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPortable\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Mini PCs are lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for users who need computing power on the go.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnergy efficiency:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Most mini PCs consume significantly less power than a similarly-specced desktop system, which can lead to cost savings on electricity.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EQuiet:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Some models are fanless, resulting in quieter operation, and even those that still have a fan are far quieter than a standard desktop system.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the advantages of using a mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cdb4d865-c9ed-437a-969c-f41b27684f88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt depends on the model. Some mini PCs allow for upgrades -- sometimes very easy upgrades -- to components like RAM and storage, while others have fixed configurations.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the whole however, like laptops, mini PCs are better aimed at those situations where you buy the PC with the spec that you need rather than relying on an upgrade down the line.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are mini PCs upgradeable?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1555caca-a976-4e78-b5df-4435662a7042\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EHere are a few mini PCs that didn't make the cut to the main list, but are still worthy of an honorable mention.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative mini PCs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3808163d-6157-443c-b1f4-ebe9afbf1e7f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor $99 you're getting an Intel Celeron N4000 chip, 8GB of RAM, add 128GB of storage, and while this mini PC is definitely not going to win any speed contests, it's perfect for general computing tasks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Bmax B1 Pro\" data-superlative=\"Best budget mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Bmax","imageData":{"id":"0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1","title":"Bmax B1 Pro","filename":"bmax-b1-pro.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002F0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1\u002Fbmax-b1-pro.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":65490,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:02:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:02:15","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Bmax","alt":"Bmax B1 Pro","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Bmax","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"bmax-b1-pro.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Bmax\" data-linktext=\"Best budget alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBmax-B1-Pro-Fanless-Computer\u002Fdp\u002FB0CJBST7XQ","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"bebb6e56-1846-4cb7-a634-5fd147011fcf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENot just a mini PC, this is a mini PC stick. This system is designed to connect directly to a display and offers the most portable PC experience you can get, making it perfect for scenarios like conference rooms and offices, and even setting up specialist IoT setups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC stick\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"MeLE","imageData":{"id":"f4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1","title":"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick","filename":"mele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002Ff4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1\u002Fmele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":262647,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:06:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:06:53","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MeLE","alt":"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"MeLE","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"mele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"MeLE\" data-linktext=\"Best compact alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-16 13:00:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"We tested and researched the best mini PCs from Intel, Apple, and more that pack strong computing features into a small package.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0757cceb-0d2e-41e2-90db-20704d44baa8",image:{id:"593a4419-820a-43ad-8b25-2a8236383d77",filename:"3-gmktec-mini-pc-title.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-08-20 17:45:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Placeholder product image alt text",credits:"Placeholder image",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EAlso, notice the image file name is descriptive. Please don't upload images that have \"screenshot\" or \"image\" or something unknown in the file name. In other words, if the image is of an iPhone 13, make sure the image's file name says iPhone 13. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002F593a4419-820a-43ad-8b25-2a8236383d77\u002F3-gmktec-mini-pc-title.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^PCs",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:"The best mini PCs you can buy: Expert recommended",section:b,slug:"best-mini-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended",topic:{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f87e0bea-de07-46a0-b370-e8d5afc7aa35\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"ChatGPT's Windows app\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-chatgpts-windows-app-is-now-available-to-free-tier-users.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1596\" data-image-height=\"851\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenAI has expanded the reach of its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-chatgpt-how-the-worlds-most-popular-ai-chatbot-can-benefit-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChatGPT\u003C\u002Fa\u003E Windows app. Launched a month ago \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-chatgpt-app-is-finally-available-to-windows-users-but-theres-a-catch\u002F\"\u003Ejust for subscribers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the app is now freely available to anyone with a ChatGPT account. That means you no longer have to head to the website to chat with your favorite AI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fopenai-is-working-on-a-ai-agent-that-can-do-tasks-like-booking-travel-or-writing-code\u002F\"\u003EOpenAI is working on a AI agent that can do tasks for you\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe free app is compatible with Windows 10 and 11. To grab it, browse \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fopenai.com\u002Fchatgpt\u002Fdownload\u002F\"\u003EOpenAI's Download page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and click the link for the Windows version under Desktop applications. That takes you to the Microsoft Store to download the program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERun the downloaded ChatGPT Installer.exe file. After the installation, you'll be prompted to sign up or log in with a ChatGPT account. I tried it once with my subscriber account and again with a free-tier account, and the program launched just fine both ways.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat will you find in the Windows app? It's similar to the website. You can ask \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F6-ways-to-write-better-chatgpt-prompts-and-get-the-results-you-want-faster\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Equestions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, submit requests, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F5-ways-chatgpt-can-help-you-write-essays\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerate content\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. You're able to ask the AI to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffree-chatgpt-users-can-now-create-images-with-dall-e-3-but-theres-a-catch\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecreate images\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-chatgpt-to-analyze-lengthy-pdfs-for-free\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eanalyze uploaded files\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-chatgpt-to-summarize-a-book-article-or-research-paper\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esummarize text\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fchatgpt-subscribers-can-soon-build-their-own-custom-chatbots-no-coding-required\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eaccess custom GPTs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and much more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fim-a-chatgpt-power-user-and-this-is-still-my-favorite-productivity-feature-a-month-later\u002F\"\u003EI'm a ChatGPT power user - and this is still my favorite productivity feature a month later\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPaid subscribers can use voice mode to carry on a natural, back-and-forth conversation with ChatGPT. As an introductory bonus though, free users can tap into voice mode for a short period of time each month. The app also syncs with your overall ChatGPT activity, so you can continue a conversation or view a past chat from the desktop app, mobile app, or website.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother cool feature of the Windows app is the ability to use keyboard shortcuts. In the app, click the question mark icon in the lower right and select Keyboard shortcuts. You'll find a host of shortcuts for performing actions, such as opening a new chat, copying the last response, toggling the sidebar, and deleting a chat.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-subscribe-to-chatgpt-plus-and-7-reasons-why-you-should\u002F\"\u003EHow to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus (and 7 reasons why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike any Windows app, you can add the ChatGPT program to your desktop or Taskbar for quick access. That makes it more convenient than having to browse the website whenever a question pops into your head.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe ChatGPT app for MacOS isn't standing still, either. The Mac version will \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fx.com\u002FOpenAIDevs\u002Fstatus\u002F1857129790312272179\"\u003Enow work with apps on your desktop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Courtesy of a new beta version of the app, ChatGPT Plus and Team users can even tell the AI to look at the content in coding apps to help them in their work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-15 09:30:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Previously accessible only to ChatGPT subscribers, now free-tier users can chat with the AI directly from Windows 10 or 11 and so, much more.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"b7e31346-17ec-4fdd-978d-f074be3d0ef3",image:{id:"ac759aae-e9b3-4ccb-a7fe-3162088476f7",filename:"screenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-14 21:49:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"screenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png",credits:"OpenAI",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F14\u002Fac759aae-e9b3-4ccb-a7fe-3162088476f7\u002Fscreenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2177,height:1209,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"chatgpts-windows-app-is-now-available-to-free-tier-users-heres-what-it-can-do",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"ChatGPT's Windows app is now available to free-tier users - here's what it can do",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6b97ae46-8b20-47dd-a789-be721d7deac5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Flyby can install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1623\" data-image-height=\"763\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft doesn't make it easy to install or upgrade to Windows 11, imposing strict hardware limitations on which PCs can run the operating system. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the very least, your computer's motherboard needs to support Secure Boot and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETPM 2.0\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, both of which are security features that aim to protect against malicious access. But such requirements leave older PCs out of the running, giving you little choice but to remain on Windows 10 until it's no longer supported -- or buy a new computer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're still keen on moving your current PC to Windows 11, a couple of third-party tools are able to bypass Microsoft's restrictions and let you install and run the OS on otherwise unsupported computers. One tool is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions\u002F\"\u003Ethe popular Rufus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Another one is called Flyby.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFreely available from a Windows utility developer called Belim, Flyby offers a few different methods for installing Windows 11, specifically the 24H2 version. You're able to update your current PC to the latest flavor of Windows 11 or install it through a USB drive. You can download the Windows 11 ISO file from Microsoft yourself, or Flyby will download it for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo bypass Microsoft's restrictions, Flyby treats the Windows 11 client installation like a Windows server installation. But you still end up with the desktop version of the OS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Flyby11 offers all the currently working methods to bypass the restrictions for installing Windows 11 24H2 on unsupported hardware,\" the developer says \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fbuiltbybel\u002FFlyby11\"\u003Eon his GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \"The internet is full of guides showing how to get around the TPM, Secure Boot, and processor requirements, but Flyby11 does all that automatically for you.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore you try this, know that Microsoft naturally discourages people from installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices. If you still decide to forge ahead, the company warns that the PC will no longer be supported and won't be \"entitled\" to receive updates. Despite Microsoft's protestations, this can still be a viable way to extend the life of a computer that you want to keep using.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to use Flyby \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4d0b6c24-6c4e-4401-8bcd-723380941b3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFlyby is capable of downloading the necessary Windows 11 ISO for you. However, I ran into a Microsoft-generated error when trying to download the file through Flyby. The error indicated that using anonymous or location-hiding technologies is not allowed, referring to the method by which Flyby tries to connect to Microsoft's Windows 11 Download service. For that reason, I recommend downloading the file yourself.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHead to Microsoft's \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11"\u003EDownload Windows 11 page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The available version is Windows 11 24H2. In the past, I advised people to steer clear of this version as it was \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F"\u003Eplagued by a number of glitches\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Microsoft has since \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F"\u003Epatched most of the key bugs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, so you should now be able to run this 2024 edition without any major hiccups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScroll down the page to the section for Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices. Click the drop-down menu for Select Download and choose Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO for x64 devices). Next, click the Download Now button. Click the drop-down menu for language and select your language (and region, if required). Click Confirm. Finally, click the button for 64-bit download and choose a location to download the ISO.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Download the Windows 11 ISO\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a643be7f-9f28-4341-bced-0bde441232a7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Download the Windows 11 ISO\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"540\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a80a7a6f-b07b-4a8f-82f3-bc04b125ca04\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, head to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fbuiltbybel\u002FFlyby11\u002Freleases" target="_blank"\u003Ethe GitHub page for Flyby11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The page includes some helpful reading as it describes the latest features for Flyby so you can see what options are available. Click the link for flybyscript.zip to download the zip file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Download Flyby\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"657507a8-320d-4e46-a25d-6bc4ec184de4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Download Flyby\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"824\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f8ca6ef4-549f-46a2-841c-05565d52b726\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EExtract the contents of the downloaded zip file. Run the Flyby11.exe file. If you receive an error from Microsoft Defender SmartScreen preventing the file from running, click the option to run it anyway. The Flyby screen then pops up.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Install Flyby\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"283820fc-460d-4325-8bdf-3562b1eae2af\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Install Flyby\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1125\" data-image-height=\"678\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-editions-explained-versions-skus-and-home-vs-pro\u002F\"\u003EWindows 11 editions explained: Versions, SKUs, and Home vs. Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6b317439-ba03-437b-a323-94c27281ac9d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENotice that Flyby lists a few different methods for installing Windows 11. If want to update your current version of Windows (10 or 11) to Windows 11 24H2, check the box for the first method to perform an in-place upgrade via the server setup. Assuming you already downloaded the ISO from Microsoft, click the button for "Mount and Run ISO" at the bottom.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Choose the Windows 11 installation method\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c6c6c8a2-eec0-4064-9ade-656f64ae438f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose the Windows 11 installation method\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1121\" data-image-height=\"614\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78662b04-b912-4ea8-bb9f-aa7b27ced39a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESelect the ISO file that you downloaded. A Windows Server setup screen pops up indicating that Flyby has triggered the Windows Server installation. Click Next to continue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Start the installation\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"23b9510e-42b8-421c-8e02-b0544b4af2fe\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Start the installation\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1122\" data-image-height=\"622\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2c0aa5bf-a72a-4bd6-bb9f-fa04a0086025\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAccept the usual license terms. Make sure you choose the option to keep files, settings, and apps. The process will then check for updates. At the Ready to Install screen, click Install to proceed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"6. Proceed with the installation\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-you-dont-need-to-pay-for-antivirus-software-anymore\u002F\"\u003EWhy you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b8b30ed5-2b29-4319-8aea-9317df776ea2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Proceed with the installation\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1124\" data-image-height=\"613\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5847b285-3f65-4120-bbf6-51963b8bd31f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter the installation finishes, your PC is automatically rebooted. Sign in at the login page and give the update some time to complete. To make sure Windows 11 24H2 installed properly, head to Settings, select System, and then click About. Under Windows Specifications, the version should indicate 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"7. Sign back in\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"74db511c-2244-4461-8bdd-ccae08676e25\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sign back in\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"564\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, Flyby is a solid tool that will get the job done. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIt's not as user friendly as Rufus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But it's good to know that another tool is available if you want to jump to Windows 11 on an older PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-15 09:00:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"This Rufus alternative will help you sneak past Microsoft's onerous requirements for upgrading a PC to Windows 11.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"43b3f09c-a660-46ed-83da-dc5a6e0741f0",image:{id:"1b08c866-b082-4097-ba2a-540f7ebbfb35",filename:"gettyimages-1224152935.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-15 00:01:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"keyboard45gettyimages-1400563623",credits:"d3sign\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F15\u002F1b08c866-b082-4097-ba2a-540f7ebbfb35\u002Fgettyimages-1224152935.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"i-tried-another-way-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions-heres-how-it-works",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"I tried another way to bypass Windows 11's installation restrictions - how it works",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1b349277-8b33-4840-ad2e-84364b063beb\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 11 24H2\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024-10-16 17:08:34.000000\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has finally launched a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11arm64\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 ISO file for Arm-based computers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Packed with the 2024 version of Windows 11, the file lets you directly install the OS on Copilot+ PCs and other systems outfitted with an Arm processor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EISO files have long been available for PCs with x64 CPUs, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E has come preinstalled on Arm-based systems. But this marks the first time Microsoft is supporting such systems with this type of installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's November Patch Tuesday squashes several bugs in Windows 11 24H2\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAvailable on its own \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11arm64\"\u003EDownload Windows 11 for Arm-based PCs page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the ISO can be used in a few different scenarios. You can apply it to create a virtual machine within your current OS. For instance, I rely on VMWare's Workstation Pro to set up and run VMs on my current PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also use the ISO file in an existing Windows environment to upgrade the OS to the latest version. In either case, download the file, open or mount it, and run the setup.exe file to kick off the installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can even use the ISO file to create a bootable flash drive to install Windows 11 on a clean machine. But therein lies the rub. Newer Arm-based PCs, like the latest \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-tried-microsofts-new-surface-laptop-copilot-pc-and-it-beat-my-macbook-air-in-3-ways\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot+ computers with Snapdragon X chips\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, will accept the ISO file without fuss, though extra work is required after the installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"For devices with a Snapdragon X Series processor, booting from an ISO to install Windows is supported without additional drivers from device manufacturers,\" Microsoft explains on its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Farm\u002Fiso\"\u003EWindows 11 ARM ISO files overview page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"However, while these devices will be able to boot Windows media and install Windows successfully, they will not have full functionality until the remaining drivers are installed.\" Microsoft adds: \"To install those drivers and restore functionality, use an ethernet connection via dongle or dock to connect to Windows Update to download the drivers. Once drivers are installed and the device is rebooted, all subsystems in the device will be functional.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have an older PC, however, you face other challenges. In this event, Microsoft cautions that you might need to grab the necessary drivers from your computer manufacturer to make the installation media bootable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Devices with previous generations of Snapdragon processors must have drivers from the device manufacturer injected in the image,\" Microsoft says. \"Otherwise, the device may fail to boot or boot to a state where input is non-functional.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnless you have the technical savvy, \"injecting\" the drivers (which sounds like a medical procedure) is easier said than done. To help you with this injection, Microsoft provides a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fmanufacture\u002Fdesktop\u002Fadd-and-remove-drivers-to-an-offline-windows-image\"\u003Esupport document\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that explains how to add the driver package to the ISO. To be fair, I've tweaked the contents of ISO files a few times as a way to customize them. The process wasn't exactly brain surgery, but it did require some time and effort.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Windows on Arm is a work in progress, so hopefully Microsoft will continue to improve the technology. In the meantime, you can always ask questions or provide feedback about this option through the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002FMicrosoftDocs\u002Fwindows-dev-docs\u002Fissues\u002Fnew\"\u003Eappropriate GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fsend-feedback-to-microsoft-with-the-feedback-hub-app-f59187f8-8739-22d6-ba93-f66612949332\"\u003EFeedback Hub\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-14 16:18:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The ISO lets you install Windows 11 24H2 in a virtual machine or directly on an Arm-based system, though your PC's age will determine how smoothly it goes.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"e0df711e-5de7-4e6b-b9d4-c05af91ca0a0",image:{id:"1b349277-8b33-4840-ad2e-84364b063beb",filename:"figure-top-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-10-16 17:08:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Windows 11 24H2",credits:"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F16\u002F1b349277-8b33-4840-ad2e-84364b063beb\u002Ffigure-top-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-releases-windows-11-iso-file-for-arm-but-older-pcs-may-require-extra-effort",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft releases Windows 11 ISO file for Arm, but older PCs may require extra effort",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fcaf005-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"arm",name:"ARM",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:c,description:c,filters:c,paging:c,slug:"dynamic-topic-five-story-feature-latest-offset-5",title:c,label:c,viewMoreText:c,viewMoreUrl:c,relatedItems:c},{id:"61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",meta:{componentName:"61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",componentDisplayName:c,componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",meta:{pageNum:1,count:15}},prev:{href:c,meta:c},next:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d&offset=15&limit=15",meta:{pageNum:2,count:15}},first:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d&offset=0&limit=15",meta:{pageNum:1,count:15}},last:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=windows&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d&offset=17730&limit=15",meta:{pageNum:1183,count:14}}},items:[{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Vaishnav K Suresh \u002F 500px \u002F Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"camera\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1394240632.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"4152\" data-image-height=\"2276\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter multiple delays, Microsoft has finally begun rolling out a preview of its controversial Recall feature for testing by members of the Windows Insider Program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature, which promises a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-new-recall-feature-lets-you-ask-ai-for-that-file-or-email-you-cant-find\u002F\"\u003E\"photographic memory\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for Windows 11 PCs, was originally announced as part of the rollout of the new AI-powered Copilot+ in June. After a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fafter-brutal-critiques-microsoft-recall-will-get-these-major-privacy-and-security-changes\u002F\"\u003Ebrutal firestorm of criticism from security experts\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the company delayed the feature so that sweeping privacy changes could be implemented.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell\u002F\"\u003ECan your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? How to tell\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat schedule change was followed by additional delays, with a rollout of the Recall preview pushed back to October. (For a detailed timeline, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fas-microsoft-breaks-awkward-silence-around-its-controversial-recall-feature-privacy-questions-remain\u002F\"\u003E\"As Microsoft breaks awkward silence around its controversial Recall feature, privacy questions remain.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) As October ended, the launch was \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-delays-its-troubled-ai-powered-recall-feature-yet-again\u002F\"\u003Edelayed one more time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, with the company citing the need for additional time to deliver \"a secure and trusted experience.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday's announcement comes in a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblogs.windows.com\u002Fwindows-insider\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002Fpreviewing-recall-with-click-to-do-on-copilot-pcs-with-windows-insiders-in-the-dev-channel\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elengthy post on the Windows Insider Blog\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that includes details on how to sign up for the Insider program and how to use Recall. Pointedly, the announcement recognizes \"the contributions of researchers and the security community in shaping Recall.\" It also includes this detailed description of how the feature is implemented in the new Windows 11 preview:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInsiders and Recall users, we want you to know your snapshots are truly yours. We do not send your snapshots off your PC to Microsoft or third parties, and don't use them for training purposes. Microsoft can't access the keys to view your encrypted data, so we can't restore your snapshots if you remove Windows Hello or restore your snapshots if you need to reset your PC or move to a new PC. We will in future updates provide ways for you to store a backup of your keys for these cases. For now, your Copilot + PC only releases the keys to use Recall if you show your face, fingerprint, or PIN.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this release, Microsoft says, it programmed Recall to detect \"sensitive information like credit card details, passwords, and personal identification numbers\" and block snapshots containing that information from being saved or stored. Testers can exclude specific apps and sites from being saved under any circumstances, and an option in Settings, which is off by default, allows testers to anonymously share details of apps and sites they prefer to be excluded from Recall.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Recall feature is included in Preview Build 26120.2415 (KB5046723), which is rolling out to users who are signed up for the Windows Insider Dev Channel.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor now, the feature is only available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs; support for Copilot+ PCs based on AMD and Intel processors will be available later, Microsoft says. For this preview, the only supported languages are Chinese (simplified), English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn PCs running Windows 11 Enterprise edition and on PCs managed by an IT administrator on work and school networks, the Recall feature will be removed by default. On those managed networks, employees who have enrolled in Windows Hello using biometric authentication can opt into the Recall feature. Administrators can block use of Recall completely or can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fclient-management\u002Fmanage-recall\"\u003Euse management tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to prevent saving snapshots from specific apps and websites. On managed networks, enterprises cannot access Recall data saved by an employee.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this build, Recall also includes the Click to Do feature, which adds AI-powered automated actions to text and images. The feature offers the ability to search, save, and edit text with a preferred app and to manipulate images using AI tools in the Photos and Paint apps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe blog post includes a lengthy list of known issues that testers are likely to encounter. The feature requires Secure Boot to be enabled, for example, and Microsoft recommends updating Microsoft 365 apps to the latest version before using Recall. Some users might experience lengthy delays in saving screenshots or a spurious error message; either issue can be resolved with a reboot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERecall can be enabled or disabled using the \"Turn Windows features on or off\" dialog; in this build, disabling the feature caches the binaries that control the feature. In a future update, Microsoft says, it will completely remove the feature when the option to turn it off is selected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the rocky nature of the initial announcement, Microsoft executives are likely holding their breath awaiting reactions from testers and the security community. That feedback will no doubt dictate the eventual release schedule, sometime in 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 18:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"What was supposed to be a signature feature of the AI-powered Copilot+ PCs for Windows 11 was delayed after a firestorm of privacy and security complaints. But it's ready for testing now, if you have the right hardware.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"43e632dd-f122-4040-bee2-f4d470f6c50c",image:{id:"62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277",filename:"gettyimages-1394240632.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 17:42:31",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"camera",credits:"Vaishnav K Suresh \u002F 500px \u002F Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F62ea7721-b57a-4248-8845-0a9fca050277\u002Fgettyimages-1394240632.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4152,height:2276,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"you-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Describe what's shown in the image.\" data-image-filename=\"img-9752.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat's the deal?\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is currently 24% off on Amazon, selling for $106, down from its regular price of $140.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EZDNET's key takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b366f93e-8c4d-4862-9371-d49f1627b4ec\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is regularly priced at $140.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's a well-made, reliable docking station with a space-saving design that allows you to declutter your desk.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt doesn't have Thunderbolt support, and I wish the front LCD panel provided more information.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is no shortage of docking stations on the market, but they all have a common issue: they tend to be large and bulky. The assumption seems to be that everyone has ample desk space to dedicate a significant portion of their real estate to a dock.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gan-charger\u002F\"\u003EThe best GaN chargers you can buy: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat if you want to save space with a docking station or prefer a minimalist setup? Previously, this proved to be a rather ambitious ask until I came across a docking station that bridges both worlds: the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"396f67a7-7510-4c42-948b-3aaed9c410f5\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station combines connectivity with a space-saving form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1fe4e93c-24bc-4b8b-908f-19ac782aa901\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis streamlined, minimal docking station extends your display across three monitors (in Windows) at a stunning 4K resolution via DisplayPort and HDMI ports.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Baseus","imageData":{"id":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","title":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","filename":"untitled-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002F988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533\u002Funtitled-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":211020,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-02 13:14:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Baseus","alt":"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"988eb964-b317-4784-8154-6e068a7eb533","imageAltText":"sample-image-16-9-red.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Baseus","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"untitled-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F02","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Baseus\" data-linktext=\"ZDNET RECOMMENDS\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBaseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station tech specs\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPorts: 2 x HDMI (4K@60fps max), 2 x DisplayPort (4K@60fps max), USB-C and 2 x USB-A 10Gbps data ports, USB-A 2.0, 100W PD, 1Gbps Ethernet port with support for WOL (Wake On LAN) and PXE (Preboot eXecution Environment), 3.5mm auxiliary jack supporting 24bit\u002F96Hz\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEmbedded LED intelligent digital display\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESupport for three additional displays on Windows (MacOS supports one additional display)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E4.84 x 2.59 x 2.59 inches\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E1.07 pounds\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis dock takes a unique approach by adopting a tower configuration, which builds upwards rather than outwards, thus minimizing its footprint on your desk. To ensure stability and prevent it from toppling over and causing damage and mayhem, it features a detachable magnetic base equipped with a \"nano adhesive\" pad. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis design allows the dock to remain securely anchored to your desk while offering the flexibility to detach it from the base and take it with you. The detachable base is particularly useful for those who appreciate a tidy, space-efficient setup but still require the functionality of a full docking station.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fd063a46-f175-4741-9dd3-ce069ad4a474\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe detachable magnetic base is a clever design element.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Detachable magnetic base\" data-image-filename=\"img-9757.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe dock also features a front display with an at-a-glance operating status for each interface. While this is a nice touch, the information displayed is limited. It would be more useful if the display showed more details, such as connection speeds and power transfer data, to give users a better understanding of the dock's performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-gan-everything-you-need-to-know-about-gallium-nitride-charging-tech\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is GaN? Everything you need to know about gallium nitride-based charging tech\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, a screen lock button is on the top of the dock. You can quickly lock the display by tapping it once on Windows PCs or twice on Macs. This feature is particularly handy for creating instant privacy, ensuring that sensitive information can be swiftly and easily -- albeit rather obviously -- protected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs for the ports, these are what you'd expect from a docking station, offering a selection of USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort, HDMI, and 3.5 mm audio. There's also a fixed 12-inch braided cable -- long enough to be useful but short enough not to be unwieldy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f165c863-fa3b-4f1b-a4ed-7ed95581e9f9\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPorts, ports, ports!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Ports, ports, ports!\" data-image-filename=\"img-9756.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F05\u002F02\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with all Baseus products that I've tested, this is a quality product made to appeal to a broad audience. In my hands-on experience with the device, I found that everything worked as promised on the spec sheets, and the dock is reliable in day-to-day use. I did notice that it got warm under a demanding load, but this only occurred when I was pushing it hard during testing and wasn't hot enough to worry about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e90d8d81-5004-4db3-bf8c-4e51cc881ec2\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBaseus-Spacemate-Ethernet-Stations-WindowsDell\u002Fdp\u002FB0CYSKGWCL\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E docking station is normally priced at $140. Overall, this is a solid option for extending your USB-C port while keeping your desk tidy, and given the specs and build quality.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b4f4c6cb-3694-47f1-9d03-e700f2e9a788\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDeals are subject to sell-out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you at\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002F"\u003E ZDNET.com\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"When will these deals expire?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 15:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The Baseus Spacemate docking station features a unique upright design that frees up precious desk space and has all the ports.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"bd8931fd-8465-431e-812a-ed9c70e01701",image:{id:"f32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c",filename:"img-9752.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-05-02 13:15:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate docking station",credits:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F02\u002Ff32bc2cc-bd3f-46bb-8fc5-50a9473d605c\u002Fimg-9752.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"this-11-in-1-docking-station-instantly-decluttered-my-desk",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"This 11-in-1 docking station instantly decluttered my desk (and now it's 24% off for Black Friday)",topic:{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"9841d7c0-1be2-42d4-963b-3d0c080290bc",slug:"tech",name:"Tech",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d0aee31d-965e-4a8b-97f0-5c7c1b8bf7f1",slug:"mac-os",name:"Mac OS",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Carlos Ruben Hernandez Blasco\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"moody keyboard\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1351537194.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-width=\"1999\" data-image-height=\"1499\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust when you thought it was safe to run Windows 11 24H2, along comes another glitch. Thankfully, this one is far from a showstopper. And you can easily get past it until Microsoft cooks up a fix.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs described on Microsoft's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#november-2024\"\u003Ewebpage for Windows 11, version 24H2 known issues and notifications\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, users without administrative privileges may be unable to change the time zone at the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings. Without admin rights, the time zone option fails to even appear.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell\u002F\"\u003ECan your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough this sounds like a minor issue, the ability to change the time zone does come in handy. New PCs typically come with the time zone set to Pacific time, requiring people outside the West Coast to change it. And if you're traveling with a laptop, you need to be able to switch the time zone to your ultimate destination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAssuming your account is not set up as an administrator, how do you handle this glitch until it's resolved?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the webpage, Microsoft explained that the bug is limited to the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings and isn't caused by changes to permissions, user policies, or Windows settings. That means you're still able to modify the time zone using an older but still reliable method.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Control Panel. In the search field at the top, type the phrase \"time zone.\" Among the search results, click the link for \"Change the time zone.\" That opens the older Date and Time window. From there, click the button for \"Change time zone\" and you can then switch it to the current zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlternatively, press Win key+R to open the Run dialog box. In the Open field, type timedate.cpl and click OK. The same older Date and Time window pops up allowing you to switch to a different time zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft said it's investigating the issue and will resolve it in an upcoming Windows update. For now, at least there's a simple enough workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-deals-2024\u002F\"\u003EThe 50+ best Black Friday deals 2024: Early sales live now\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the overall scheme of Windows 11 24H2 bugs, this is a small one. However, other bugs affecting this new version have been \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F\"\u003Emore serious and frustrating\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, causing Microsoft to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocks-windows-11-24h2-update-for-some-pcs-following-bug-onslaught\u002F\"\u003Epause the update for certain PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company did roll out a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F\"\u003Eseries of fixes on this month's Patch Tuesday\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which resolved most (but not all) of the outstanding issues. The Windows 11 2024 update seems safe enough to install now. Just be aware that the bug brigade for this version may not quite be done.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 14:43:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"You can't change the time zone the usual way unless you have admin rights. Here's how to sneak past this glitch.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"f951682a-38f6-45e7-bbb4-eb91c6a0a34b",image:{id:"e2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367",filename:"gettyimages-1351537194.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 14:38:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"moody keyboard",credits:"Carlos Ruben Hernandez Blasco\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002Fe2245882-e9ac-4aac-bb5a-f6262f586367\u002Fgettyimages-1351537194.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1999,height:1499,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"windows-11-24h2-hit-by-a-brand-new-bug-but-theres-a-workaround",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows 11 24H2 hit by a brand new bug, but there's a workaround",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"joshblake\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"glowing laptop\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-183301913.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F22\" data-image-crop=\"2000x1280+0+80\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen October 2025 rolls around, your old but still functional Windows 10 PC will no longer receive monthly security updates. And although you have a variety of options, the simplest solution is to upgrade that PC to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can, that is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is engaging in serious age discrimination against your Windows PCs these days. Even ancient PCs can run Windows 10, but not everyone can upgrade to the latest version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are well over 1 billion Windows PCs in the world today, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emost of them running Windows 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Where your PC fits in will define whether it can last another decade or if it's time to find a retirement home. You can sort yourself by asking one simple question: How old is that PC, exactly?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe date of purchase doesn't matter nearly as much as when the PC and its internal components were designed. And the most important of those components is the CPU. In Windows 10, you can discover that detail by running the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe. On the System Summary page, look for the Processor value, as in the example shown below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d34cf82f-b5fa-4c18-83b7-51d0e28fc451\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe System Information utility will tell you which CPU is in your old PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"find-your-processor-here\" data-image-filename=\"find-your-processor-here.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"781\" data-image-height=\"397\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArmed with that information, you can sort your PC into one of four buckets. Here's how to find out which one you're in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EModern PCs: 2019 or later\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPCs that were designed and built in 2019 or later can generally run Windows 11 with full support. Your machine is in this bucket if its CPU is on one of the following lists\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-intel-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Intel processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: The main list starts with Core 8th Generation parts, which debuted in early 2019. (A few older, 7th Gen CPUs are on the list, but they are mainly found in high-end business machines.)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-amd-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported AMD processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Most Ryzen and Epyc CPUs that were first shipped in 2019 or later are included here.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fdesign\u002Fminimum\u002Fsupported\u002Fwindows-11-supported-qualcomm-processors\"\u003EWindows 11 supported Qualcomm processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: Arm-based PCs running a Snapdragon 850 or later are eligible to upgrade to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy design, every machine that includes one of the CPUs on this list will also include the other essential component that Windows 11 requires: a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrusted Platform Module\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (TPM) version 2.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003ECan't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your PC falls into this group, you can upgrade to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11\"\u003EWindows 11 Installation Assistant\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and it should be capable of performing well for another decade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your CPU isn't on any of those lists, you'll need to dig a little deeper. You can get some important clues about a CPU's age and capabilities by going to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fark.intel.com\u002Fcontent\u002Fwww\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fark.html#@Processors\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIntel's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amd.com\u002Fen\u002Fproducts\u002Fspecifications\u002Fprocessors.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAMD's processor specifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and searching for the part name (i7-11850H, for example).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 10: 2016-2019\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems unfair to call these PCs old. They're middle-aged at best and capable of performing just about any modern task.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAny system designed to meet the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program specifications during this period includes a TPM 2.0, although the CPU is almost certainly not on the list of Windows 11 supported parts. If you own one of these PCs, you can use Microsoft's documented procedure to upgrade to Windows 11 by making a simple registry edit. (You'll find the details under the \"Option1\" heading in this article: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003E\"How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese PCs are likely to run Windows 11 well, and even the oldest of the bunch should be useful for at least five more years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDesigned for Windows 7\u002F8: 2010-2015\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese machines are starting to show their age and can fairly be called senior citizens.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut just like humans, you can't judge their abilities by age alone. Some, especially those that were originally designed as high-end business PCs, might still be capable of delivering excellent performance; others deserve to be retired.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F\"\u003EFor Windows 11 setup, which user account type should you choose? How to decide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get the full picture, you need to look closely at what's inside and then answer two questions:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIs there a TPM of any kind?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany, but not all PCs from this era include a Trusted Platform Module, and even a TPM1.2 is enough to pass muster for Microsoft's upgrade workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho made the CPU?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlmost all mainstream Intel CPUs from this era can meet the new, more stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, version 24H2, which means you can probably use the \"official\" workaround with those PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf it's equipped with an AMD processor, however, prepare to be disappointed. AMD didn't begin fully supporting the SSE3.2 and PopCnt instructions until around 2013, and I've heard from numerous owners of AMD-powered PCs from this era that are unable to upgrade to Windows 11. (For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven on a machine without a TPM, you can use a utility like Rufus to work around the compatibility blocks. But those PCs are probably running on borrowed time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFrom the Dark Ages of the Windows PC: 2009 and earlier\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this era, Windows Vista was the target of every Get a Mac ad, and Windows XP was the workhorse. If you work at a large company, you're probably surrounded by people who have no experience at all with those operating systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're planning to upgrade one of these old-timers, don't get your hopes up. For the most part, it was too early for TPMs to be included on any but the most advanced (for their day) business computers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore problematic is the fact that Intel CPUs through 2009 didn't support the required streaming extensions and instructions that Windows 11, version 24H2 demands. Likewise, all AMD CPUs from this era are unable to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might run across a high-end PC from this era that squeaks in just under the wire, but it's the exception and not the rule. Your old PC from this era might still be capable of doing a few tricks, but it's unlikely that it will be doing so with Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you can't stand to put that old workhorse out to pasture, you'll need to find a new OS. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-replace-windows-with-linux-mint-on-your-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELinux, anyone\u003C\u002Fa\u003E?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 08:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Does your PC have a future or is it time to consider retirement options? Here's what to look for.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6bdd85d5-6fb3-4547-b8c1-b029a0c4c41b",image:{id:"24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0",filename:"gettyimages-183301913.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-22 00:37:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"glowing laptop",credits:"joshblake\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F22\u002F24f77017-a0cd-44f8-9c20-087564d773c0\u002Fgettyimages-183301913.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"can-your-old-pc-even-handle-the-windows-11-upgrade-heres-how-to-tell",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Can your old PC even handle the Windows 11 upgrade? Here's how to tell",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Jeenah Moon\u002FBloomberg via Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"microsoft sign\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-2180913017.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"4000\" data-image-height=\"2667\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast summer's CrowdStrike meltdown caused billions of dollars in damage and exposed some fundamental architectural flaws in the Windows platform. A single flawed update from one vendor was enough to crash millions of PCs and servers worldwide, and getting those machines back online required direct human intervention on many of those endpoints, until an automated fix was deployed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-caused-the-great-crowdstrike-windows-meltdown-of-2024-history-has-the-answer\u002F\"\u003E\"What caused the great CrowdStrike-Windows meltdown of 2024? History has the answer.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn a blog post kicking off this week's Ignite conference, Microsoft VP of Enterprise and OS Security David Weston announced changes that should dramatically lessen the likelihood of another such meltdown. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday's announcements are the first tangible results from a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fat-microsofts-security-summit-experts-debated-how-to-prevent-another-global-it-meltdown-will-it-help\u002F\"\u003Ecooperative effort between Microsoft and the community of endpoint security vendors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that collectively bring in billions of dollars in revenue each year protecting business networks. Security product developers will be bound by a new set of Safe Deployment Practices that require them to do additional testing and to deliver product updates gradually; instead of pushing out updates to an entire installed base at once, security vendors will be expected to use deployment rings and monitoring tools to detect a flawed update and pause or roll back the deployment before it can do extensive damage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new feature called Quick Machine Recovery will make it easier for IT professionals to remotely repair a machine that's stuck in a reboot loop because of a bad update or driver. According to Microsoft, \"This feature will enable IT Administrators to execute targeted fixes from Windows Update on PCs, even when machines are unable to boot, without needing physical access to the PC.\" The feature leverages the Windows Recovery Environment and can be used to install fixes from Microsoft or from third parties. It will be available for testing through the Windows Insider Program in early 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fat-microsofts-security-summit-experts-debated-how-to-prevent-another-global-it-meltdown-will-it-help\u002F\"\u003E\"At Microsoft's security summit, experts debated how to prevent another global IT meltdown. Will it help?\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest change of all will allow developers to build security products that can operate in user mode instead of requiring kernel mode. The company says it will share a private preview with its partners in the security endpoint community in July 2025. Given the fundamental nature of that change, it's likely to be months or years before security products leveraging those changes are widely available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ENew security tools for Windows 11\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince the launch of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft has touted the new operating system's improved security, much of it attributable to new default settings that enable features that were optional in Windows 10.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA new round of security features scheduled to appear in Windows 11 over the next year will address more fundamental security concerns.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest security issue is that the overwhelming majority of Windows users run using an account with administrator privileges. If they're tricked into running a piece of malicious code, that malware has the same administrative rights, meaning it can install additional software and generally wreak havoc on the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe fix is a feature called Administrator Protection, which gives the user standard permissions by default. If they need to perform an action that requires administrator rights, such as installing an app or changing a system setting, they'll need to authenticate using Windows Hello biometrics or a device-specific PIN. That authorization creates a temporary token that is valid only for the current action and is destroyed as soon as the task is completed. Microsoft argues that this change will be \"disruptive to attackers as they no longer have automatic, direct access to the kernel or other critical system security without specific Windows Hello authorization.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fignite-2024-introduces-new-ai-agents-and-more-for-microsoft-365-copilot\u002F\"\u003EIgnite 2024 introduces new AI agents and more for Microsoft 365 Copilot\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe addition of Windows Hello is the game-changer here. Being able to authenticate using biometrics instead of having to enter a password should reduce the hassle factor dramatically. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe feature is in preview now and should be released to the public in 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA second feature, Smart App Control, is designed to block malware by preventing unknown apps from running on a Windows 11 PC. Apps that are well known will run without issue, but unsigned and unfamiliar apps will be prevented from running; the feature will also block all scripts from the internet, including those that try to leverage PowerShell as a vector for installing malware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmart App Control will be on by default for consumer PCs. In corporate environments, IT administrators will need to enable App Control for Business policies and select a \"signed and reputable policy\" template; they can then add internal apps using management tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Windows Protected Print mode eliminates the need for third-party print drivers, which have become an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-hackers-used-microsoft-signed-malicious-drivers-to-further-their-ransomware-attacks\u002F\"\u003Eaggressive and effective entry point\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for attackers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EEnterprise edition gets new encryption and hotpatching\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor businesses that use Windows Enterprise edition, this week's announcements include a handful of new features that should make client PCs more secure and easier to manage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPersonal Data Encryption for known folders provides a double level of encryption for personal files on a user's PC in the so-called known folders -- Desktop, Documents, and Pictures. Accessing those files will require biometric authentication by the user, making it impossible for a device administrator to snoop in personal files. The feature uses the same enhanced encryption that will protect data collected by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-announces-sweeping-changes-to-controversial-recall-feature-for-windows-11-copilot-pcs\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows Recall\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and a Personal Data Encryption API will allow third-party developers to extend protection to their application's data.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fcomputers-tech\u002Fmicrosofts-new-mini-pc-is-designed-for-the-office-heres-what-it-can-do\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's new mini PC is designed for the office. Here's what it can do\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother currently available feature, Configuration Refresh, will allow administrators to enforce security policy on devices when users or apps make changes to the Windows registry. The feature works locally and can reset the security configuration without requiring access to mobile device management servers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Hotpatch allows admins to apply critical security updates without requiring a reboot. Microsoft claims that using hotpatching with Windows Autopatch settings in Microsoft Intune can reduce the number of system restarts for Windows updates from once a month to just four times per year. The feature is currently in preview and will be available in Windows 11 Enterprise version 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-19 13:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Stung by last summer's CrowdStrike meltdown, which crashed Windows PCs and servers worldwide, Microsoft is rolling out a wide range of security changes to Windows. Here's what to expect over the next year",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"4c7d78c2-2742-4484-9ced-48dafc09181f",image:{id:"4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62",filename:"gettyimages-2180913017.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-19 13:11:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"microsoft sign",credits:"Jeenah Moon\u002FBloomberg via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F19\u002F4b664887-99bf-4103-80ec-e25f67cbeb62\u002Fgettyimages-2180913017.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4000,height:2667,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-to-tighten-windows-security-dramatically-in-2025-heres-how",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft to tighten Windows security dramatically in 2025 - here's how",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"2182300f-96d1-40c8-a74d-6efba81ebaf0\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"PM Images\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"ladder out of a hole\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1186948007-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"2119\" data-image-height=\"1415\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUpdate: As of October 1, 2024, Microsoft has made it more difficult to bypass these compatibility checks, but there are workarounds for most modern PCs. Some older devices, especially those built using AMD processors, might be out of luck, however. I've updated the instructions in this post to account for the changes. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn October 14, 2025, Microsoft will \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-has-a-big-windows-10-problem-and-only-one-year-to-solve-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Estop delivering security updates\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-you-still-get-a-windows-10-upgrade-for-free\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 10 PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E unless you're willing to pay an exorbitant price to join the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EExtended Security Updates program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-finally-test-microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-heres-how\u002F\"\u003EYou can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's how\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you try to upgrade to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 on a PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that's more than a few years old, you'll be told -- in no uncertain terms -- that your old PC doesn't qualify because its CPU isn't on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-microsoft-stands-firm-on-hardware-requirements\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eofficial list of compatible processors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that it will not revise those requirements. You will also hit roadblocks if your PC doesn't have a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrusted Platform Module\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (TPM) version 2.0.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat might be the official policy, but -- as with everything Windows-related -- it pays to read the fine print. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose pesky restrictions prevent you from automatically upgrading to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Yet there are fully supported workarounds for most PCs that are capable of running Windows 10, as I document in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\"\u003EZDNET's Windows 11 FAQ\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it\u002F\"\u003EYou can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, everything in this article requires that you be signed in as an administrator on the PC you want to upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhich option should you choose?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlease don't skip over this section. \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003ETo take advantage of the workaround described in option 1 below, your computer must meet all the other requirements for Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt must be configured to start up using UEFI, not a legacy BIOS configuration.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESecure Boot must be supported, although it does not need to be enabled. (But seriously, folks, you should enable it.)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA TPM must be enabled; version 1.2 is OK, but a system without any TPM or with the TPM disabled will fail.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo check these details on a PC you're considering upgrading, run the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe, and look at the System Summary page. Pay special attention to the BIOS Mode value. If it says \"Legacy,\" you'll need to reconfigure your system to UEFI mode (and convert your system disk from MBR to GPT partitioning) before you can install Windows 11 as a normal upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo see whether your PC has a TPM enabled, run the Trusted Platform Module Management tool, Tpm.msc. If your computer includes a TPM and it's turned on, this app will display information about it. If there's no TPM, or if the TPM is disabled in firmware settings, you'll see a message that says \"Compatible TPM cannot be found.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're unable (or unwilling) to change from Legacy BIOS to UEFI, or if you have an older PC that doesn't have a TPM option at all, you'll need to use an undocumented hack that allows you to bypass the compatibility checks and complete the upgrade. See option 2 at the end of this post for details on how to use the free Rufus utility to perform this upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote that a new set of restrictions, introduced as part of the Windows 11, version 24H2 update, require a CPU that supports specific instructions -- SSE4.2 and PopCnt. Most PCs with Intel CPUs that are from 2009 or later will meet this standard. AMD CPUs from 2013 or later should also meet these requirements. For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you plan to perform a clean installation of Windows 11, you can boot from installation media and run Windows Setup. That option skips the CPU compatibility check completely (but still requires a TPM and Secure Boot support). After the installation completes, you'll need to reinstall all your apps, restore your data files, and tweak settings to personalize your system preferences.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWant to avoid all that hassle? Choose the option that's appropriate for your hardware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOption 1: Use this simple registry edit\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBypass CPU checks and accept any TPM version with this registry edit. This process requires four steps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"888bd165-d90a-4148-8800-dc8a730c5c36\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou need to make one small change to the Windows registry, as documented in this&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fways-to-install-windows-11-e0edbbfb-cfc5-4011-868b-2ce77ac7c70e" target="_blank"\u003EMicrosoft support document\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This change tells the Windows 11 Setup program to skip the check for compatible CPUs and to allow installation on a PC with an older TPM (version 1.2). The usual warnings apply when working with the registry; I recommend you make a complete backup before proceeding.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpen Registry Editor (Regedit.exe) and navigate to the following key:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SYSTEM\\Setup\\MoSetup\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf the MoSetup key, doesn't exist, you need to create it. Right-click the node for HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SYSTEM\\Setup in the left-hand navigation pane, then choose New &gt; Key. Name it MoSetup and press Enter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwiping-your-windows-laptop-heres-the-simplest-way-to-erase-all-personal-data\u002F"\u003EWiping your Windows laptop? Here's the simplest way to erase all personal data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESelect the MoSetup key and then right-click in any empty space in the pane on the right. Choose the option to create a new DWORD value. (Don't choose the QWORD option!)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReplace the default name for that key by typing the text AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU and then press Enter. Then double-click the new value and change the "Value data" box to 1. The result should look like this:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Change one key in the Windows registry\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6f063136-4e4f-4669-a37f-124401072378\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EUse this registry tweak to override the Windows 11 CPU compatibility check. You must have a TPM (any version) and Secure Boot must be enabled.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"override-compatibility-check-windows11.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"override-compatibility-check-windows11.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"831\" data-image-height=\"450\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClick OK to save your change, and then restart your PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4fa35e65-55ca-46e0-86cf-0c88573fd967\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOn the PC you want to upgrade, go to the Windows 11 Download page (\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FDownloadWindows11" target="_blank"\u003Eaka.ms\u002FDownloadWindows11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) and choose the option at the bottom of the page, "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices." Save the ISO file in your Downloads folder.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote that this is a big file. Depending on the speed of your internet connection, the download could take a while.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Download the Windows 11 ISO\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0674775e-9275-4ab6-abba-1fd40f53318f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter the download completes, open File Explorer and double-click the ISO file you downloaded in the previous step. Doing so mounts the file as a virtual DVD drive in its own folder, with its own drive letter.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Mount the ISO file in File Explorer\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ae50379a-5aab-490e-9e8a-d5bc51e1df20\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn File Explorer, find the Setup.exe file and double-click it to begin the upgrade. You'll see a stern warning about compatibility issues, but you can safely click Accept to move past it. (For details on what that warning message really means, see \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E"Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?"\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) After you click OK on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F"\u003EThe best Windows laptop you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll have three options: You can keep your apps, settings, and files (Full Upgrade); keep your data files but start fresh with apps and settings (Keep Data Only); or start completely fresh (Clean Install).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Run Windows Setup\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOption 2: Use the free Rufus utility \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn older PCs without a TPM and on PCs that don't support Secure Boot, you'll need to use an undocumented hack to bypass the compatibility checker. You can do this manually by replacing the Appraiserres.dll file (in the Sources subfolder on the Windows 11 installer drive) with a zero-byte version and then making a series of registry edits. But it's simpler to use the free, open-source Rufus utility to make a USB drive that includes this file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EImportant note: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EIn early October 2024, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-cracks-down-on-windows-11-upgrades-for-incompatible-pcs-but-theres-a-fix-for-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft made some changes\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to its compatibility checking tools. Those changes prevent Rufus version 4.5 or earlier from working properly. Make sure you have version 4.6 or later, which incorporates the necessary changes. For details of how the new version works, see \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-just-released-tool-can-get-the-job-done\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This just-released tool can get the job done.\"\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003Cem\u003EIn addition, be aware that using Rufus will not allow you to bypass the new CPU restrictions that require SSE4.2 and PopCnt instruction support.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\"\u003EWhy Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get started, you'll need to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Faka.ms\u002FDownloadWindows11\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edownload the Windows 11 ISO\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and supply a USB flash drive of at least 16 GB in size. You will reformat this drive as part of the process, so back up any data on that drive first.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDownload Rufus \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Frufus.ie\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efrom the developer's site\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and run the app. (The version of Rufus available \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fstore\u002FproductId\u002F9PC3H3V7Q9CH?ocid=pdpshare\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efrom the Microsoft Store\u003C\u002Fa\u003E will not work for this task.)   \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChoose the USB drive and then choose the \"Disk or ISO image\" option.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick the Select button, choose the Windows 11 ISO you downloaded earlier, and then click Start.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn the Windows User Experience dialog, select the first checkbox to remove hardware requirements, as shown in the screenshot below.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EClick OK to begin creating the drive.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6461781a-5548-4161-bf1f-2af52221e86e\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EBe sure to choose the top checkbox here to bypass the compatibility check for the Windows 11 upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"rufus-windows-compatibility\" data-image-filename=\"rufus-windows-compatibility.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"548\" data-image-height=\"724\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"enabled\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter Rufus successfully creates your installer, open that USB drive in File Explorer, and double-click Setup. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs is the case with the other option, you'll see a warning about compatibility issues. It's a scare tactic. (For details on what that warning message really means, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\"Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?\"\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) After you click Accept on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy ZDNET colleague Lance Whitney has more details on the other options available with Rufus in \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\"  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you've tried this upgrade, I want to hear about your experience. If it worked, please share the details. If you run into snags, send me an email so we can figure out what's going wrong. Be sure to include details -- the make and model of your PC and screenshots of any error messages. I've set up a special inbox just for this feedback: Win11Upgrade [at] realworldwindows.com.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published on April 9, 2022, but has been updated multiple times since then. It was last updated on November 18, 2024. \u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-18 08:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft has added more roadblocks, but there are workarounds for many models. Here's how you can find out whether your Windows 10 PC can bypass the latest restrictions and safely upgrade to Windows 11 - for free.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"6c7b382c-7102-4138-a0bb-4a3eac1b1db7",image:{id:"2182300f-96d1-40c8-a74d-6efba81ebaf0",filename:"gettyimages-1186948007-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-18 00:20:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"ladder out of a hole",credits:"PM Images\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F18\u002F2182300f-96d1-40c8-a74d-6efba81ebaf0\u002Fgettyimages-1186948007-1.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2119,height:1415,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"how-to-upgrade-an-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"How to upgrade an 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f2d97ea2-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Adrian",lastName:"Kingsley-Hughes",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2",filename:"adrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 14:59:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F11c625de-cb18-4e3f-8614-5010553831f2\u002Fadrian-kingsley-hughes.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Adrian Kingsley-Hughes is an internationally published technology author who has devoted over two decades to helping users get the most from technology -- whether that be by learning to program, building a PC from a pile of parts, or helping them get the most from their new MP3 player or digital camera. Adrian has authored\u002Fco-authored technical books on a variety of topics, ranging from programming to building and maintaining PCs. His most recent books include 'Build the Ultimate Custom PC', 'Beginning Programming' and 'The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide'. He has also written training manuals that have been used by a number of Fortune 500 companies.",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-gaming-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E have been through a number of evolutions in terms of form factor, transforming from big, heavy, and quite ugly beige boxes that took up a lot of desk space to something no bigger than a hardback book that packs enough power to handle all but the most demanding of workloads.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESay hello to the mini PC: A PC that's just as comfortable tucked behind a TV, popped on a shelf, or hidden in a cupboard as it is sitting on a desk. These mini PCs pack a punch and have everything that you could want from a modern PC -- and take up the least amount of space possible. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe best power banks: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best mini PC right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've tested and researched the current mini PC offerings on the market, examining specs and paying close attention to user reviews, and my top pick for the best mini PC is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"68d9ad17-5a1c-4592-8643-def928eb2c40\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. Whether you want a mini PC for the home, office, or meeting room, this is a solid choice. But I understand that this might not be for everyone, so I've picked a handful more mini PCs, each aimed at a specific use case.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best mini PCs of 2024\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2869633c-add8-4055-9874-55f85096cf8a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to mini PCs, it's hard to beat a mini PC built to the Intel NUC specs. I've owned and tested a number of them myself, and have been very happy with them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith this model, we have a system running a 16-core Core i7 chip that can power up to 3.7 GHz with a built-in Iris Xe GPU. Backing that is 32GB of RAM and 1TB M.2 SSD. That's quite a spec for a system that you can hold in the palm of your hand. As for ports, this system has a multitude of USB ports, along with Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and Ethernet.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs mini PCs go, this one is overkill for most, but if you are looking for a really powerful system that runs whisper-quiet and can be mounted behind a TV or put on a shelf, this is the system for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven the price of this system, there aren't a lot of reviews for it, but the ones that have been written by owners are overwhelmingly positive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1360P | Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 1x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Intel\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8","title":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon-mini-pc","filename":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8\u002Fintel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":49519,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:47:42","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:47:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Intel\u002FZDNET","alt":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"356a5a37-b607-4bef-b3a5-9f60e1bef4a8","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Intel\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"intel-nuc-13-pro-arena-canyon.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Intel\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-Frequency-i7-1360P-Graphics-4-Screen\u002Fdp\u002FB0C778B8P1","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FNUC13ANHi7-i7-1360P-Computers-Business-Thunderbolt-dp-B0C8NSPFTD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Powerful ~Quiet ~Excellent reviews\" data-dislike=\"~Expensive\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78000d68-5c97-40b9-95c5-77631010cc05\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EJust when you thought this list would only include Windows systems, we've got the Mac Mini. This was one of the original mini PCs, and with the switch to Apple Silicon processors, it has seen a new lease of life.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConsidered at one point the gateway Mac that got people over to MacOS from Windows (because they could replace their Windows PC with the Mac Mini and keep using their existing keyboard, mouse, and monitor with their new Mac), it's now a staple of the Mac lineup, and the perfect choice for those who want a compact system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've owned a few different Mac Mini systems over the years, and I've been more than satisfied by them. They're reliable, well-built, and run cool and quiet. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest downside to this system is upgrading -- bottom line, this Mac will live and die with the same processor, RAM, and storage that it left the factory with. If you want to give it a storage boost, Satechi makes a hub\u002Fstand for it that adds a bunch of ports and a port for an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-m2-ssd\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM.2 SSD\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I'd expect from an Apple product, the reviews are strongly positive, with users reporting that they are happy with the performance and overall reliability of the system.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApple 2023 Mac mini tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Apple Silicon M2 processor with 8 CPU cores, 10 GPU cores | 8GB RAM | 256GB storage | 2x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jck | MacOS 14 Sonoma\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Apple Mac Mini (2023)\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for those who want a Mac\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Apple\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a","title":"Apple Mac mini desktop, M2 chip","filename":"p.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F07\u002F66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a\u002Fp.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":35783,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-07 10:48:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-07 10:48:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Apple","alt":"Apple Mac mini desktop, M2 chip","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"66b0f976-34e2-453e-bc1a-36b81be74e9a","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Apple\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"p.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Apple\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-Desktop-Computer-10%E2%80%91core-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0BSHGHGXR?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver%2F6427500.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver\u002F6427500.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-mac-mini-desktop-m2-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-latest-model-silver%2F6427500.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmac-mini&subId1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmac-mini","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmac-mini&subId1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Powerful ~Close to silent ~Excellent Apple build quality\" data-dislike=\"~Runs MacOS (although you can run Windows on it using virtualization) ~Limited upgrade options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fbcf7c40-812b-49b2-b8f7-1337da4ec796\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis is a tiny mini PC that is a cube measuring 72 x 72 x 44.5mm, weighing only 206g. Inside the cube is a 4-core Intel N5105 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128HB M.2 SSD running Windows 10 Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite the tiny size, this mini PC features a handful of USB ports, two HDMI ports, an audio jack, and an Ethernet port. This system has no problems running two 4K@60FPS displays for maximum productivity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd yet given the power, this system is quiet and very energy efficient (using only 10W), making it a great choice for someone who wants a PC for the home, office, or meeting room, or even to drive digital signage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReviewers of this system comment on the performance and overall value of the system, and it's an outstanding system for the price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGMKtec Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 11th Generation Intel N5105 | Intel UHD Graphics | 8GB DDR4 RAM | 128GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, USB-C, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, TF\u002FmicroSD slot, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"GMKtec Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for those who want a truly mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"d9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca","title":"gmktec-mini-pc","filename":"gmktec-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002Fd9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca\u002Fgmktec-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":56667,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:50:59","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:51:05","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"gmktec-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"d9c8c53b-27c1-48f4-b2c7-d8457bd099ca","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"gmktec-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FGMKtec-Nucbox5-Desktop-Computer-Windows\u002Fdp\u002FB0B75PT2RY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Tiny ~Powerful enough to drive two 4K displays\" data-dislike=\"~Not fanless, so may become a little noisy when pushed with heavy workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"49f53d39-1f54-40fc-9b80-19ea978fa6e3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis mini PC has a few features that set it apart from the competition. While dual HDMI isn't all that rare, finding a system with dual Ethernet and dual M.2 slots is, and finding one with a built-in filter to keep dust out of the innards is even rarer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe price of this system makes it a perfect choice for those who want a cheap yet powerful mini PC -- as long as you're not running AAA-title games or other heavy workloads, this system has you covered.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe only con to this system is that it runs the older 12th-gen Intel silicon, but for $300, this is still a system that both holds its own and won't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 12th Generation Intel N200 | Intel UHD Graphics 32EUS | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, 2x Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReviews of this system are strongly positive, with owners praising the power and performance of the system, and how quiet it is in day-to-day use.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Beelink EQ13 Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best budget mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f","title":"beelink-mini-pc","filename":"beelink-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f\u002Fbeelink-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":67398,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:52:30","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:52:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"beelink-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2d61ef27-a16a-4fdb-b8c0-26bff6cb535f","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"beelink-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBeelink-Desktop-Computer-Support-Ethernet\u002Fdp\u002FB0D5Y4BKZD?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Dual HDMI ~Dual Ethernet ~Dual M.2 slots ~Dust filter to keep the fan and insides clean\" data-dislike=\"~Older, 12th-generation processors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78c885fe-2858-4700-80df-904a0a8908f7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis mini PC describes itself as a gaming system, and with good reason. The combination of AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX and AMD Radeon 680M GPU gives this system a lot of horsepower to tackle a variety of workloads, from work to games.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt also throws away the design rulebook. While most mini PCs are cube-like, this one is an upright tent shape. While that might seem like purely a design choice, it does in fact make opening up the system to carry out upgrades a snap as the side panel is held in place with magnets. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis system features a power dial on the top to switch it between silent mode, auto, and performance, depending on whether you want power or silence. It also includes a multitude of LED lights, which you might love or hate. If you love them, great, if not, there's an app that turns them off for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the lights aside, this is the perfect mini PC for those looking for a gaming system but who don't want to have a huge box on their desk or beside their TV. There's no harder set of people to please than gamers, which is why it's quite reassuring to find strong reviews for this gaming mini PC.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC tech specs\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EAMD Ryzen 9 6900HX | AMD Radeon 680M GPU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProThis is a mini PC that breaks a lot of the rules.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"AceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC for gamers\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"placeholder-product-image-for-best-lists.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6","title":"acemagician-mini-pc","filename":"ace-magician-mini-pc.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F21\u002F300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6\u002Face-magician-mini-pc.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":75137,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:55:47","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-21 17:55:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","alt":"ace-magician-mini-pc","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"300897c9-52de-47c7-9762-a2888eb4ebb6","imageAltText":"placeholder-product-image-for-best-lists.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ace-magician-mini-pc.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F21","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FACEMAGICIAN-Mini-Gaming-Ryzen-6900HX\u002Fdp\u002FB0D3KWGKRD","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~A mini PC that legitimately describes itself as a gaming system ~Powerful AMD processor and GPU ~Convenient dial for switching between power modes\" data-dislike=\"~Different shape ~LED lights might be annoying\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8e068ed3-abb4-472a-a2c2-1ca8604bcf1d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMini PC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOperating system\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$949\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Core i7-1360P\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32GB DDR4&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2TB M.2 NVMe SSD \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple 2023 Mac Mini\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$499\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple Silicon M2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple Silicon M2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E256GB SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMacOS 14 Sonoma\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGMKtec Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$140\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel N5105&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel UHD Graphics\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E128GB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$299\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel N200\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel UHD Graphics 32EUS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E16GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E500GB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$570\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAMD Ryzen 9 6900HX&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAMD Radeon 680M\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32GB DDR4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1TB M.2 NVMe SSD\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"65474b26-90c2-4eee-bda5-a005bcbe6f10\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChoose this mini PC…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you want…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea general-purpose mini PC. The Intel NUC PCs continue to be the best all-around mini PCs on the market. Yes, there are better, faster, cheaper systems out there, but these systems have continually impressed me over the years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple 2023 Mac mini\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Eto go with MacOS. The Mac Mini used to be the way that Windows PC users would start to make the transition over to Mac. Nowadays, they are all-purpose desktop computers that are perfect for anyone who doesn't want a portable system, from students to developers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGMKtec Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea truly tiny PC. This is one of the smallest systems I've seen, but it packs quite a punch, hitting well above its size and weight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeelink EQ13 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea mini PC with a difference. This mini PC breaks the mold: not only does it have a special dust filter to keep out debris, it also has 2 Ethernet ports, and two M.2 slots to compliment the two HDMI ports.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003Ea proper mini gaming PC. Here you have a full gaming PC packed into a tiny footprint. Sure, there are going to be desktop systems that are way more powerful than this system, but for the size, you'll be hard-pressed to find anything faster.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right mini PC for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a6b61a7d-64b5-4cc4-bf4a-8cfbff854ee8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn many ways, choosing a mini PC is much like a regular PC. There are all the usual performance, price, and support for all your peripherals to keep in mind. But if you are after a mini PC, then the mini part does come into play, so there is a size issue to bear in mind. The good news is that mini PCs come in a range of sizes, from systems that can fit in the palm of your hand to systems so small you could fit several of them in the palm of your hand.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDo you need a mini PC? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThis is the top question when choosing a mini PC. Do you actually need one, or do you just need a regular PC?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESize\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: This really is the differentiator when it comes to mini PCs. Do you want a PC that's the size of a biscuit tin, or something significantly smaller?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Pretty standard PC consideration here. What do you want your system to do? Do you want to carry out general PC tasks like word processing and spreadsheets and browsing the web, or do you have more specialist needs in mind, such as gaming?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBudget\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Small doesn't always mean cheap, but you can save money by choosing a mini PC that suits your needs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPorts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most mini PCs come with a decent array of ports, but if you need something like two Ethernet ports or a bunch of USB ports, you need to ensure you're getting the right mini PC for you.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"023f67f2-1e4e-4603-921c-efe3f9fdd0e9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThere are a lot of mini PCs on the market from a variety of different vendors, and I've tested and used mini PCs from all the vendors listed here, I've based my selections on my experience using these brands, as well as current model user reviews.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProduct specs and price also come into play, but being able to draw on dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of other people's views allows me to get a broad sense of how well-received a selected mini PC is. I've paid particular attention to reports of performance, stability, how quiet or noisy the PC is, and weeded out many that seemed to have a poor lifespan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat we're left with is the best of the best, in a broad selection of categories that are applicable to mini PCs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these mini PCs?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e338db83-da68-4ce6-9398-b4683b088f84\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA mini PC is a compact yet fully functional computer that offers many, if not all of, the capabilities of a desktop PC, but is packaged into a smaller form factor. Mini PCs are designed to save space and can be used for a variety of tasks, from basic computing to more demanding applications such as programming or even gaming.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d19732e9-2115-46ee-bd0c-8d50d410ef31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPeople often choose to invest in a mini PC for these reasons:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESpace-saving:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The top benefit of going for a mini PC is that it takes up significantly less space than traditional desktop PCs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPortable\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Mini PCs are lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for users who need computing power on the go.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnergy efficiency:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Most mini PCs consume significantly less power than a similarly-specced desktop system, which can lead to cost savings on electricity.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EQuiet:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Some models are fanless, resulting in quieter operation, and even those that still have a fan are far quieter than a standard desktop system.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the advantages of using a mini PC?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cdb4d865-c9ed-437a-969c-f41b27684f88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt depends on the model. Some mini PCs allow for upgrades -- sometimes very easy upgrades -- to components like RAM and storage, while others have fixed configurations.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the whole however, like laptops, mini PCs are better aimed at those situations where you buy the PC with the spec that you need rather than relying on an upgrade down the line.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are mini PCs upgradeable?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1555caca-a976-4e78-b5df-4435662a7042\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EHere are a few mini PCs that didn't make the cut to the main list, but are still worthy of an honorable mention.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative mini PCs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3808163d-6157-443c-b1f4-ebe9afbf1e7f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor $99 you're getting an Intel Celeron N4000 chip, 8GB of RAM, add 128GB of storage, and while this mini PC is definitely not going to win any speed contests, it's perfect for general computing tasks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Bmax B1 Pro\" data-superlative=\"Best budget mini PC\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Bmax","imageData":{"id":"0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1","title":"Bmax B1 Pro","filename":"bmax-b1-pro.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002F0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1\u002Fbmax-b1-pro.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":65490,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:02:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:02:15","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Bmax","alt":"Bmax B1 Pro","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"0fe8e673-7a00-414d-bdb7-49fef9c14af1","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Bmax","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"bmax-b1-pro.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Bmax\" data-linktext=\"Best budget alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FBmax-B1-Pro-Fanless-Computer\u002Fdp\u002FB0CJBST7XQ","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"bebb6e56-1846-4cb7-a634-5fd147011fcf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENot just a mini PC, this is a mini PC stick. This system is designed to connect directly to a display and offers the most portable PC experience you can get, making it perfect for scenarios like conference rooms and offices, and even setting up specialist IoT setups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick\" data-superlative=\"Best mini PC stick\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zdnet-image-instructions","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"MeLE","imageData":{"id":"f4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1","title":"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick","filename":"mele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002Ff4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1\u002Fmele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":262647,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:06:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-08-20 19:06:53","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MeLE","alt":"MeLE PCG02 Mini PC Stick","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f4aec8bc-acfe-4f8d-8940-a128e1c135f1","imageAltText":"zdnet-image-instructions","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"MeLE","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"mele-pcg02-mini-pc-stick.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F08\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"MeLE\" data-linktext=\"Best compact alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0C3CHF1RV?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-16 13:00:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"We tested and researched the best mini PCs from Intel, Apple, and more that pack strong computing features into a small package.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"0757cceb-0d2e-41e2-90db-20704d44baa8",image:{id:"593a4419-820a-43ad-8b25-2a8236383d77",filename:"3-gmktec-mini-pc-title.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-08-20 17:45:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Placeholder product image alt text",credits:"Placeholder image",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EAlso, notice the image file name is descriptive. Please don't upload images that have \"screenshot\" or \"image\" or something unknown in the file name. In other words, if the image is of an iPhone 13, make sure the image's file name says iPhone 13. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F20\u002F593a4419-820a-43ad-8b25-2a8236383d77\u002F3-gmktec-mini-pc-title.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^PCs",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:"The best mini PCs you can buy: Expert recommended",section:b,slug:"best-mini-pc",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"The best mini PCs of 2024: Expert recommended",topic:{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f87e0bea-de07-46a0-b370-e8d5afc7aa35\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"ChatGPT's Windows app\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-chatgpts-windows-app-is-now-available-to-free-tier-users.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1596\" data-image-height=\"851\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenAI has expanded the reach of its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-chatgpt-how-the-worlds-most-popular-ai-chatbot-can-benefit-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChatGPT\u003C\u002Fa\u003E Windows app. Launched a month ago \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-chatgpt-app-is-finally-available-to-windows-users-but-theres-a-catch\u002F\"\u003Ejust for subscribers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the app is now freely available to anyone with a ChatGPT account. That means you no longer have to head to the website to chat with your favorite AI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fopenai-is-working-on-a-ai-agent-that-can-do-tasks-like-booking-travel-or-writing-code\u002F\"\u003EOpenAI is working on a AI agent that can do tasks for you\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe free app is compatible with Windows 10 and 11. To grab it, browse \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fopenai.com\u002Fchatgpt\u002Fdownload\u002F\"\u003EOpenAI's Download page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and click the link for the Windows version under Desktop applications. That takes you to the Microsoft Store to download the program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERun the downloaded ChatGPT Installer.exe file. After the installation, you'll be prompted to sign up or log in with a ChatGPT account. I tried it once with my subscriber account and again with a free-tier account, and the program launched just fine both ways.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat will you find in the Windows app? It's similar to the website. You can ask \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F6-ways-to-write-better-chatgpt-prompts-and-get-the-results-you-want-faster\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Equestions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, submit requests, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F5-ways-chatgpt-can-help-you-write-essays\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerate content\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. You're able to ask the AI to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffree-chatgpt-users-can-now-create-images-with-dall-e-3-but-theres-a-catch\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecreate images\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-chatgpt-to-analyze-lengthy-pdfs-for-free\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eanalyze uploaded files\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-chatgpt-to-summarize-a-book-article-or-research-paper\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esummarize text\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fchatgpt-subscribers-can-soon-build-their-own-custom-chatbots-no-coding-required\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eaccess custom GPTs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and much more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fim-a-chatgpt-power-user-and-this-is-still-my-favorite-productivity-feature-a-month-later\u002F\"\u003EI'm a ChatGPT power user - and this is still my favorite productivity feature a month later\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPaid subscribers can use voice mode to carry on a natural, back-and-forth conversation with ChatGPT. As an introductory bonus though, free users can tap into voice mode for a short period of time each month. The app also syncs with your overall ChatGPT activity, so you can continue a conversation or view a past chat from the desktop app, mobile app, or website.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother cool feature of the Windows app is the ability to use keyboard shortcuts. In the app, click the question mark icon in the lower right and select Keyboard shortcuts. You'll find a host of shortcuts for performing actions, such as opening a new chat, copying the last response, toggling the sidebar, and deleting a chat.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-subscribe-to-chatgpt-plus-and-7-reasons-why-you-should\u002F\"\u003EHow to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus (and 7 reasons why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike any Windows app, you can add the ChatGPT program to your desktop or Taskbar for quick access. That makes it more convenient than having to browse the website whenever a question pops into your head.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe ChatGPT app for MacOS isn't standing still, either. The Mac version will \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fx.com\u002FOpenAIDevs\u002Fstatus\u002F1857129790312272179\"\u003Enow work with apps on your desktop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Courtesy of a new beta version of the app, ChatGPT Plus and Team users can even tell the AI to look at the content in coding apps to help them in their work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-15 09:30:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Previously accessible only to ChatGPT subscribers, now free-tier users can chat with the AI directly from Windows 10 or 11 and so, much more.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"b7e31346-17ec-4fdd-978d-f074be3d0ef3",image:{id:"ac759aae-e9b3-4ccb-a7fe-3162088476f7",filename:"screenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-14 21:49:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"screenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png",credits:"OpenAI",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F14\u002Fac759aae-e9b3-4ccb-a7fe-3162088476f7\u002Fscreenshot-2024-11-14-at-4-48-15pm.png",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2177,height:1209,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"chatgpts-windows-app-is-now-available-to-free-tier-users-heres-what-it-can-do",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"ChatGPT's Windows app is now available to free-tier users - here's what it can do",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6b97ae46-8b20-47dd-a789-be721d7deac5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Flyby can install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1623\" data-image-height=\"763\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft doesn't make it easy to install or upgrade to Windows 11, imposing strict hardware limitations on which PCs can run the operating system. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the very least, your computer's motherboard needs to support Secure Boot and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-windows-11-requires-a-tpm-and-how-to-get-around-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETPM 2.0\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, both of which are security features that aim to protect against malicious access. But such requirements leave older PCs out of the running, giving you little choice but to remain on Windows 10 until it's no longer supported -- or buy a new computer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're still keen on moving your current PC to Windows 11, a couple of third-party tools are able to bypass Microsoft's restrictions and let you install and run the OS on otherwise unsupported computers. One tool is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions\u002F\"\u003Ethe popular Rufus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Another one is called Flyby.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFreely available from a Windows utility developer called Belim, Flyby offers a few different methods for installing Windows 11, specifically the 24H2 version. You're able to update your current PC to the latest flavor of Windows 11 or install it through a USB drive. You can download the Windows 11 ISO file from Microsoft yourself, or Flyby will download it for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo bypass Microsoft's restrictions, Flyby treats the Windows 11 client installation like a Windows server installation. But you still end up with the desktop version of the OS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Flyby11 offers all the currently working methods to bypass the restrictions for installing Windows 11 24H2 on unsupported hardware,\" the developer says \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fbuiltbybel\u002FFlyby11\"\u003Eon his GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \"The internet is full of guides showing how to get around the TPM, Secure Boot, and processor requirements, but Flyby11 does all that automatically for you.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore you try this, know that Microsoft naturally discourages people from installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices. If you still decide to forge ahead, the company warns that the PC will no longer be supported and won't be \"entitled\" to receive updates. Despite Microsoft's protestations, this can still be a viable way to extend the life of a computer that you want to keep using.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to use Flyby \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4d0b6c24-6c4e-4401-8bcd-723380941b3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFlyby is capable of downloading the necessary Windows 11 ISO for you. However, I ran into a Microsoft-generated error when trying to download the file through Flyby. The error indicated that using anonymous or location-hiding technologies is not allowed, referring to the method by which Flyby tries to connect to Microsoft's Windows 11 Download service. For that reason, I recommend downloading the file yourself.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHead to Microsoft's \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11"\u003EDownload Windows 11 page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The available version is Windows 11 24H2. In the past, I advised people to steer clear of this version as it was \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F"\u003Eplagued by a number of glitches\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Microsoft has since \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F"\u003Epatched most of the key bugs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, so you should now be able to run this 2024 edition without any major hiccups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScroll down the page to the section for Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices. Click the drop-down menu for Select Download and choose Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO for x64 devices). Next, click the Download Now button. Click the drop-down menu for language and select your language (and region, if required). Click Confirm. Finally, click the button for 64-bit download and choose a location to download the ISO.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1. Download the Windows 11 ISO\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a643be7f-9f28-4341-bced-0bde441232a7\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Download the Windows 11 ISO\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"540\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a80a7a6f-b07b-4a8f-82f3-bc04b125ca04\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENext, head to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fbuiltbybel\u002FFlyby11\u002Freleases" target="_blank"\u003Ethe GitHub page for Flyby11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The page includes some helpful reading as it describes the latest features for Flyby so you can see what options are available. Click the link for flybyscript.zip to download the zip file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"2. Download Flyby\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"657507a8-320d-4e46-a25d-6bc4ec184de4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Download Flyby\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"824\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f8ca6ef4-549f-46a2-841c-05565d52b726\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EExtract the contents of the downloaded zip file. Run the Flyby11.exe file. If you receive an error from Microsoft Defender SmartScreen preventing the file from running, click the option to run it anyway. The Flyby screen then pops up.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"3. Install Flyby\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"283820fc-460d-4325-8bdf-3562b1eae2af\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Install Flyby\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1125\" data-image-height=\"678\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-editions-explained-versions-skus-and-home-vs-pro\u002F\"\u003EWindows 11 editions explained: Versions, SKUs, and Home vs. Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6b317439-ba03-437b-a323-94c27281ac9d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENotice that Flyby lists a few different methods for installing Windows 11. If want to update your current version of Windows (10 or 11) to Windows 11 24H2, check the box for the first method to perform an in-place upgrade via the server setup. Assuming you already downloaded the ISO from Microsoft, click the button for "Mount and Run ISO" at the bottom.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"4. Choose the Windows 11 installation method\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c6c6c8a2-eec0-4064-9ade-656f64ae438f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Choose the Windows 11 installation method\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1121\" data-image-height=\"614\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"78662b04-b912-4ea8-bb9f-aa7b27ced39a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESelect the ISO file that you downloaded. A Windows Server setup screen pops up indicating that Flyby has triggered the Windows Server installation. Click Next to continue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"5. Start the installation\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"23b9510e-42b8-421c-8e02-b0544b4af2fe\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Start the installation\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1122\" data-image-height=\"622\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2c0aa5bf-a72a-4bd6-bb9f-fa04a0086025\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAccept the usual license terms. Make sure you choose the option to keep files, settings, and apps. The process will then check for updates. At the Ready to Install screen, click Install to proceed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"6. Proceed with the installation\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-you-dont-need-to-pay-for-antivirus-software-anymore\u002F\"\u003EWhy you don't need to pay for antivirus software anymore\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b8b30ed5-2b29-4319-8aea-9317df776ea2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Proceed with the installation\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1124\" data-image-height=\"613\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5847b285-3f65-4120-bbf6-51963b8bd31f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAfter the installation finishes, your PC is automatically rebooted. Sign in at the login page and give the update some time to complete. To make sure Windows 11 24H2 installed properly, head to Settings, select System, and then click About. Under Windows Specifications, the version should indicate 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"7. Sign back in\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"74db511c-2244-4461-8bdd-ccae08676e25\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Sign back in\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-i-tried-this-rufus-alternative-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F14\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"564\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOverall, Flyby is a solid tool that will get the job done. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIt's not as user friendly as Rufus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But it's good to know that another tool is available if you want to jump to Windows 11 on an older PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F61b2fa86-25ca-4edd-8c79-0a571ebf1336\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-15 09:00:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"This Rufus alternative will help you sneak past Microsoft's onerous requirements for upgrading a PC to Windows 11.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"43b3f09c-a660-46ed-83da-dc5a6e0741f0",image:{id:"1b08c866-b082-4097-ba2a-540f7ebbfb35",filename:"gettyimages-1224152935.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-15 00:01:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"keyboard45gettyimages-1400563623",credits:"d3sign\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F15\u002F1b08c866-b082-4097-ba2a-540f7ebbfb35\u002Fgettyimages-1224152935.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"i-tried-another-way-to-bypass-windows-11s-installation-restrictions-heres-how-it-works",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"I tried another way to bypass Windows 11's installation restrictions - how it works",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"1b349277-8b33-4840-ad2e-84364b063beb\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 11 24H2\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024-10-16 17:08:34.000000\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has finally launched a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11arm64\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 ISO file for Arm-based computers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Packed with the 2024 version of Windows 11, the file lets you directly install the OS on Copilot+ PCs and other systems outfitted with an Arm processor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EISO files have long been available for PCs with x64 CPUs, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E has come preinstalled on Arm-based systems. But this marks the first time Microsoft is supporting such systems with this type of installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's November Patch Tuesday squashes several bugs in Windows 11 24H2\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAvailable on its own \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11arm64\"\u003EDownload Windows 11 for Arm-based PCs page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the ISO can be used in a few different scenarios. You can apply it to create a virtual machine within your current OS. For instance, I rely on VMWare's Workstation Pro to set up and run VMs on my current PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also use the ISO file in an existing Windows environment to upgrade the OS to the latest version. In either case, download the file, open or mount it, and run the setup.exe file to kick off the installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can even use the ISO file to create a bootable flash drive to install Windows 11 on a clean machine. But therein lies the rub. Newer Arm-based PCs, like the latest \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-tried-microsofts-new-surface-laptop-copilot-pc-and-it-beat-my-macbook-air-in-3-ways\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot+ computers with Snapdragon X chips\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, will accept the ISO file without fuss, though extra work is required after the installation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"For devices with a Snapdragon X Series processor, booting from an ISO to install Windows is supported without additional drivers from device manufacturers,\" Microsoft explains on its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Farm\u002Fiso\"\u003EWindows 11 ARM ISO files overview page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"However, while these devices will be able to boot Windows media and install Windows successfully, they will not have full functionality until the remaining drivers are installed.\" Microsoft adds: \"To install those drivers and restore functionality, use an ethernet connection via dongle or dock to connect to Windows Update to download the drivers. Once drivers are installed and the device is rebooted, all subsystems in the device will be functional.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have an older PC, however, you face other challenges. In this event, Microsoft cautions that you might need to grab the necessary drivers from your computer manufacturer to make the installation media bootable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Devices with previous generations of Snapdragon processors must have drivers from the device manufacturer injected in the image,\" Microsoft says. \"Otherwise, the device may fail to boot or boot to a state where input is non-functional.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnless you have the technical savvy, \"injecting\" the drivers (which sounds like a medical procedure) is easier said than done. To help you with this injection, Microsoft provides a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows-hardware\u002Fmanufacture\u002Fdesktop\u002Fadd-and-remove-drivers-to-an-offline-windows-image\"\u003Esupport document\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that explains how to add the driver package to the ISO. To be fair, I've tweaked the contents of ISO files a few times as a way to customize them. The process wasn't exactly brain surgery, but it did require some time and effort.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, Windows on Arm is a work in progress, so hopefully Microsoft will continue to improve the technology. In the meantime, you can always ask questions or provide feedback about this option through the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002FMicrosoftDocs\u002Fwindows-dev-docs\u002Fissues\u002Fnew\"\u003Eappropriate GitHub page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fsend-feedback-to-microsoft-with-the-feedback-hub-app-f59187f8-8739-22d6-ba93-f66612949332\"\u003EFeedback Hub\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-14 16:18:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"The ISO lets you install Windows 11 24H2 in a virtual machine or directly on an Arm-based system, though your PC's age will determine how smoothly it goes.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"e0df711e-5de7-4e6b-b9d4-c05af91ca0a0",image:{id:"1b349277-8b33-4840-ad2e-84364b063beb",filename:"figure-top-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-10-16 17:08:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Windows 11 24H2",credits:"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F16\u002F1b349277-8b33-4840-ad2e-84364b063beb\u002Ffigure-top-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1600,height:900,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-releases-windows-11-iso-file-for-arm-but-older-pcs-may-require-extra-effort",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft releases Windows 11 ISO file for Arm, but older PCs may require extra effort",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fcaf005-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"arm",name:"ARM",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"940f0a30-d136-4c94-b523-53426b2db403\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: ZDNet\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows Update Patch Tuesday\" data-image-filename=\"windows-update.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2020-02-11 19:08:20.000000\" data-image-width=\"1000\" data-image-height=\"619\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose of you who've run into hiccups with Windows 11 24H2 should get some much-needed relief via this month's Patch Tuesday lineup. Released yesterday, the latest updates are designed to repair many, though not all, of the outstanding bugs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Ftopic\u002Fnovember-12-2024-kb5046617-os-build-26100-2314-1fa61a6d-a99a-47ca-a169-6974f08c3a0b\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EKB5046617\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is aimed specifically at the Windows 11 2024 edition. It repairs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F\"\u003Eseveral known issues\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that have annoyed and vexed Windows users.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst up is a fix for a bug that prevented a small number of devices from connecting to the Internet. This glitch popped up when a DHCP server failed to respond properly, preventing people from getting a valid IP address to connect to a network.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother patch resolves an inaccurate count in the Task Manager. With this bug, the Processes tab always showed zero when you tried to group open processes by type.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso on the fixed list is an issue in which pressing Alt+Tab to switch windows triggered a black screen. Though this problem was supposed to have been repaired by an earlier patch, some people reported that it persisted. Hopefully, it's fixed for good this time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother glitch that supposedly had already been patched \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-update-plagued-by-file-scanner-bug-over-and-over-again\u002F\"\u003Edisplayed the wrong amount of free storage\u003C\u002Fa\u003E after running the Windows Disk Cleanup tool to remove leftover cache files. This issue may need further patching for a complete and final repair.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-ultra-thin-windows-pc-i-tested-competes-with-gaming-laptops-twice-its-price\u002F\"\u003EThis ultra-thin Windows PC I tested competes with gaming laptops twice its price\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne more patch fixes an issue with the Windows Subsystem for Linux in which users were unable to access their Dev Drives. Designed mostly for developers and IT pros, WSL lets you \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-makes-windows-subsystem-for-linux-for-windows-11-a-separate-app-in-the-microsoft-store\u002F\"\u003Erun Linux within Windows via a virtual environment\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The Dev Drive is dedicated storage that can be used to house databases, code, and other content.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther problems now show up as fixed on Microsoft's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#3057msgdesc\"\u003EWindows 11 24H2 known issues and notifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. One resolved a conflict in which an app called Voicemeeter crashed, causing a blue screen. Another repaired a glitch in which fingerprint sensors might not work after your computer has been locked.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough that sounds like a fair number of bug fixes, Microsoft still has other issues on its to-do list for Windows 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome Asus PCs fail to install the latest update, instead triggering a blue screen during the update. Use of the camera may cause some applications to become unresponsive. A program called Safe Exam Browser fails to open. Using an application named Easy Anti-Cheat can result in a blue screen. Compatibility issues can occur with certain Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers. And the Asphalt 8 driving game may periodically stop responding.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThough each issue affects only a small number of people, according to Microsoft, the sheer number has proven to be an obstacle in the rollout of the 2024 update. The company was even forced to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocks-windows-11-24h2-update-for-some-pcs-following-bug-onslaught\u002F\"\u003Eblock the update for affected computers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E until fixes could be or can be applied. Hopefully, the remaining bugs will be resolved soon or through the next major Patch Tuesday rollout.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAside from the fixes for Windows 11 24H2, November's update resolves almost 100 security vulnerabilities and adds such features as a customizable Copilot keyboard key. The update should automatically present itself for installation. If not, head to Settings, select Windows Update, and click the button to check for updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-13 15:57:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Plagued by a host of glitches, the 2024 version of Windows 11 receives some necessary fixes.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"672be7ae-7001-4577-a87e-cae8ce48877e",image:{id:"940f0a30-d136-4c94-b523-53426b2db403",filename:"windows-update.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2020-02-11 19:08:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"Windows Update Patch Tuesday",credits:"Image: ZDNet",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F11\u002F940f0a30-d136-4c94-b523-53426b2db403\u002Fwindows-update.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1000,height:619,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsofts-november-patch-tuesday-squashes-several-bugs-in-windows-11-24h2",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft's November Patch Tuesday squashes several bugs in Windows 11 24H2",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"64116657-ae99-4ed2-a68e-ddd21f727c35\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"eyetwist \u002F kevin balluff\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"the end\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-157108904.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"7905\" data-image-height=\"5189\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft really, really, \u003Cem\u003Ereally\u003C\u002Fem\u003E doesn't want you to upgrade your old Windows 10 PC to Windows 11. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's the logic behind the strict hardware compatibility requirements the company imposed when it launched the new operating system in 2021. If you try to install Windows 11 on a computer with a CPU from 2018 or earlier, you get an error message, along with a suggestion that maybe you should buy a new PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe result is a thoroughly predictable chess game between Redmond and the Windows enthusiast community, with each new move raising the stakes. The owners of those \"incompatible\" PCs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efind ways to work around those restrictions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and Redmond \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-cracks-down-on-windows-11-upgrades-for-incompatible-pcs-but-theres-a-workaround\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efinds a way to make those workarounds more difficult\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the public release of the most recent feature update to Windows 11, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhats-new-in-windows-11-24h2-and-when-will-your-pc-get-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eversion 24H2\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Microsoft tightened the compatibility checks that Windows Setup runs when performing an upgrade. Those new restrictions blocked one widely used workaround, which used the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-install-windows-11-the-way-you-want-and-bypass-microsofts-restrictions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eopen-source Rufus utility\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to create installation media that allows Windows 11 upgrades on incompatible hardware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor most PCs, even those that are a dozen years old, the new restrictions lasted for less than one week, as the community discovered that you could work around Microsoft's compatibility blocks by manually entering a series of commands to tweak the registry. But a second set of restrictions, aimed at PCs powered by very old CPUs, has so far proven impossible to bypass.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003EThe best Windows laptops: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn particular, CPUs that don't support the SSE4.2 streaming extensions or the POPCNT instruction will fail with an error message specifically referring to those issues. On PCs that use Intel CPUs from 2009 and earlier or AMD processors from 2013 and earlier, the Windows 11 version 24H2 kernel won't load. Microsoft's PC Health Check app won't detect these issues, but any attempt to install version 24H2 on a PC with one of those CPUs will be blocked and you'll see an error message like the following:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4307f005-6744-45a9-a838-6fc6dfea0100\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPCs with CPUs that are more than 12 years old might display this error message. There's no workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET \" data-image-alt-text=\"win11-sse42-error\" data-image-filename=\"win11-sse42-error.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"2800\" data-image-height=\"1274\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is no workaround.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've heard from the owners of PCs powered by the 2008-vintage Intel Core2 Duo E8500 and several AMD A6 processors from 2011-2013 that failed on this score. If you're not sure of your CPU's capabilities, you can look it up on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FSSE4\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethis extremely technical Wikipedia page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- scroll to the section headed \"Supporting CPUs.\" Some free utilities, including \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cpuid.com\u002Fsoftwares\u002Fcpu-z.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECPU-Z\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.hwinfo.com\u002Fdownload\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHWinfo\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, can help as well; just be aware that the download sites for those utilities are filled with misleading ads designed to trick visitors into downloading and installing sketchy apps. Turn on your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-browser-for-privacy\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ead blocker\u003C\u002Fa\u003E before visiting those pages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade Windows Home edition to Pro (and why you would)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor PCs that aren't blocked by that restriction, a new version of the Rufus utility is available that automates the upgrade process. But as the developer of Rufus, Pete Batard, acknowledges, the way it's implemented might make some people nervous.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the surface, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fpbatard\u002Frufus\u002Freleases\u002Ftag\u002Fv4.6_BETA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ERufus 4.6\u003C\u002Fa\u003E doesn't look any different from its predecessor. When you select the option to bypass the Windows 11 hardware compatibility checks, it replaces the official Windows 11 compatibility appraiser, Appraiserres.dll, with a 0-byte file, just as the earlier version did; and it offers the same handful of additional customization options. To work around the 24H2 restrictions, though, it performs a few new tricks of its own.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it\u002F\"\u003EYou can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe most noteworthy change is that creating installation media renames the official Windows Setup program, Setup.exe, to Setup.dll and adds a new custom program called Setup.exe. It also adds an $OEM$ subfolder in the Sources folder, containing additional subfolders and one file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDouble-clicking the newly created Setup.exe file produces this permission dialog, which shows that the file is a Windows Setup Wrapper, signed by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fakeo.ie\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAkeo Consulting\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which is the corporate parent of Rufus.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9545b38b-b486-4838-addb-a734e683bfa3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe latest Rufus release replaces the Windows Setup executable with this wrapper.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Ed Bott\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"rufus-setup-wrapper\" data-image-filename=\"rufus-setup-wrapper.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"506\" data-image-height=\"384\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, what does that file do? You can see for yourself by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fpbatard\u002Frufus\u002Fcommit\u002Fc800448c620a3767565e038e29739a9dccfe5e71#diff-4b1ecbaec72c9b5d001d688681ea0a60e2f3758870bc535ac7cbe8f407c68c10L107-R111\"\u003Einspecting the code on GitHub\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Running that wrapper makes the necessary registry edits to bypass compatibility checks, then calls the original Windows Setup program.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs Batard notes in the comments on this code, this approach might arouse some suspicions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EObviously, the fact that we \"inject\" a setup executable may leave people uncomfortable about the possibility that we might use this as a malware vector, which is also why we make sure that the one we sign and embed in Rufus does get built using GitHub Actions and can be validated to not have been tampered through SHA-256 validation …\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgithub.com\u002Fpbatard\u002Frufus\u002Fissues\u002F2568#issuecomment-2405586117\"\u003Eseparate discussion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Batard emphasizes that \"Rufus only goes with the official bypasses that Microsoft themselves included, and not with an overreaching approach of disabling all hardware checks.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003ECan't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat approach should provide a level of security that installations using these bypasses won't be disabled in the future, he adds:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERufus is working within Microsoft's framework, with bypasses that Microsoft included for the installer, and, therefore, as has been the case ever since the release of Windows 11, I expect that the bypasses that Microsoft allows [will] not render a machine inoperative...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new workaround should succeed with almost any PC capable of running Windows 10. And I have already received reports from readers of successful upgrades. One correspondent wrote: \"I waited for your subsequent article, and then the 4.6 Beta version of Rufus. Everything ran flawlessly and the machine is now running 24H2 with an old processor and no TPM. It certainly makes me wonder why Microsoft insists on the hardware parameters.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft's case for the original hardware restrictions is that it provides a secure baseline for PCs running Windows 11, but the company has not yet documented the reason for the new SSE4.2 and POPCNT requirements in Windows 11 version 24H2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-12 16:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft tightened its already strict hardware compatibility requirements for Windows 11 upgrades again. The updated Rufus utility can bypass those restrictions for most PCs, but it's the end of the line for an unlucky few.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"7dc1605e-6119-4f4b-9a61-cb6025881944",image:{id:"64116657-ae99-4ed2-a68e-ddd21f727c35",filename:"gettyimages-157108904.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-12 15:55:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"the end",credits:"eyetwist \u002F kevin balluff\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F12\u002F64116657-ae99-4ed2-a68e-ddd21f727c35\u002Fgettyimages-157108904.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:7905,height:5189,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"microsoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-probably-fix-that",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d17ddd02-232e-4fbe-84af-201e48b9b852",slug:"companies",name:"Companies",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:c,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:b,bureau:"US",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6bf33c89-27e5-4924-81cd-7895f8e160f7\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Federico Moreno\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Windows 11 concept\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1387615811.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"4096\" data-image-height=\"2160\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the years, Microsoft has sliced and diced its Windows product line into multiple editions. That movement hit its low point in the Windows Vista era, when consumers had to choose from a half-dozen flavors of Windows, with an Ultimate edition that had a retail price tag of $400. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThankfully, those days are long gone. Today, when you go to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-computer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebuy a new PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you typically have a choice of two and only two editions: Home and Pro. But other specialized editions are available, and you might stumble across one of them if you look in just the right places.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKnowing the differences between Windows editions is most useful when purchasing a new PC and deciding whether to pay the system maker for an upgrade (from Home to Pro edition) or wait and do it yourself.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft doesn't help when it uses marketing-speak instead of plain English to explain those differences. So, just as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EI read license agreements so you don't have to\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, I've studied the lineup of Windows editions, removed the marketing gibberish and legalese, and translated the resulting details into terms that mere mortals can comprehend.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"69914930-8929-4869-aa08-ff5cbd892c8d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft releases new&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eversions&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fem\u003Eof Windows at regular intervals. Each new version has a core set of features and security updates. For Windows 11, those new versions come out once a year, in the second half of the year.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo far, Microsoft has released four versions of Windows 11: 21H2, 22H2, 23H2, and 24H2. You can probably decode the naming scheme without too much effort: the release date (displayed as the year by two digits), followed by the letters H2 (to represent the second half of the year).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhave-a-windows-problem-that-you-just-cant-fix-try-this-ultimate-troubleshooting-trick\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EHave a Windows problem that you just can't fix? Try this ultimate troubleshooting trick\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach version of Windows is released in multiple&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eeditions&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fem\u003Eat different price points. For retail customers, the two most common editions are Home and Pro. All editions share common features, but they are sold and distributed differently depending on the type of device and market for which they're intended. Higher-priced editions have features that aren't available in the lower-priced editions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou will often hear the terms&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eedition\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;and&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003ESKU&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fem\u003Eused interchangeably. That's a common shorthand, and good enough for a casual discussion, but there are some important distinctions between the two terms. The short version? An edition is a general description. A SKU is an extremely specific description encompassing the product name, version, channel, licensing method, and more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESKU&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fem\u003Estands for&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003EStock Keeping Unit\u003C\u002Fem\u003E, which is the part number a manufacturer assigns to specific items it sells. A single product, like Windows 11 Pro, is sold in many different physical and digital packages, each with its own part number, or SKU.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F"\u003EThe best Windows laptops of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe full list of SKUs for Windows 11 goes on for page after page, but unless you're in the purchasing office for a Fortune 500 company, you don't need to pay attention to those identifiers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis isn't unusual in the computing industry. Apple, for example, has a different SKU for every combination of storage, color, and carrier for every iPhone. You will rarely see them because whoever you buy your phone from will filter that list to show only the ones relevant to you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the difference between a version, an edition, and a SKU?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0912ed3c-957c-4788-8b30-773e9daaa27a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you visit any Microsoft-centric message board, sooner or later you will hear someone ask, "Why doesn't Microsoft just sell one single edition of Windows?"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-trusty-tool-can-fix-that\u002F"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you took an entry-level Economics course, you got the answer in the first week, when the professor talked about market segmentation. If you missed that lesson, here's how it applies to Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDifferent markets place different values on products:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOEMs get Windows 11 Home at a rock-bottom price, which keeps the price of consumer and SMB PCs low. This edition has the core Windows feature set.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEnterprise administrators are willing to pay hundreds of dollars per PC per year to add management features, including the capability to join Windows domains, manage devices, and enforce security policies.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EConsumers and small business owners who aren't part of a corporate network have no need for those enterprise features and no desire to pay extra. They might or might not be willing to pay extra for full-disk encryption, remote access software, and other "professional" features.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EK-12 educators don't have big budgets or centralized networks, but they need PCs that they can hand to students without worrying that kids will use them to play games when they should be studying, or whether they'll visit unsavory websites or install unauthorized software, including malware. Parents with school-aged kids might want the same features.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, most people get the basic Home edition to start with. Businesses pay extra for Windows 11 Pro licenses, and large organizations pay still more for Windows 11 Enterprise upgrades, both of which unlock features not available in lesser-priced editions. (More on that shortly.) Students, teachers, and school administrators get Windows 11 Education, which has many of the features of the Enterprise edition at a discounted price.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why does Microsoft sell multiple editions of Windows?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b1c6610a-7609-401f-b7fb-43283e6bcf89\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Home and Pro editions are currently available to large OEMs and small PC makers (who typically purchase the OEM System Builder SKUs). These editions can be installed on any PC design, including desktops, laptops, Surface-style tablets, all-in-ones, hybrids, and 2-in-1s.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 10 Home is the cheaper option. It includes the entire Windows 10 feature set, minus some features reserved for the Pro edition. OEMs commonly install this edition on devices aimed at the price-conscious consumer and small business markets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fis-onedrive-moving-all-your-files-how-to-take-back-control-of-your-windows-storage-3-ways\u002F"\u003EIs OneDrive moving all your files? How to take back control of your Windows storage - 3 ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWindows 10 Pro is typically found on higher-quality, higher-spec business-class devices. It costs more and includes a group of features that enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone on a Windows business network might be willing to pay extra: key ones are Hyper-V virtualization, BitLocker encryption, the ability to set up a PC as a Remote Desktop server, and the ability to join a Windows domain.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnless you need to use one of these features, there is no need to pay for the Pro upgrade.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the difference between Home and Pro?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2422dc49-62fe-452f-b7f6-6ccfda2d88a4\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAn OEM cannot install a Windows Enterprise edition on a new PC. That edition is an upgrade only.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Enterprise upgrade gives the business several additional features and licensing rights that are important in large organizations on managed Windows networks. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-ultimate-windows-11-upgrade-guide-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F"\u003EThe ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBusinesses must purchase an underlying Pro license (usually as part of the price of a new PC) to qualify for the Windows 10 Enterprise upgrade. A Home license does not qualify for an Enterprise upgrade. Yes, that means a business has to pay for two fairly expensive licenses for a PC running Windows Enterprise edition. I'll buy a drink for the first one of my friends in the tech press who mentions this distinction between the Home and Pro editions the next time they write about this topic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELarge organizations with Volume License contracts with Microsoft, including businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofits, can install Windows 10 Enterprise on devices that already have a qualifying license for a Windows Pro edition. Enterprise upgrades are also available on a subscription basis through Microsoft Cloud Service Provider partners.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is Windows Enterprise edition?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a7847402-0ebf-41d3-8678-ba8cfd47fed4\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELarge educational institutions have their own Volume License edition of Windows, called Windows Education, with a set of management features that correspond to those in Windows Enterprise edition.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese customers typically pay much less than their business counterparts, while still getting the same Enterprise features and rights. Another crucial difference: Windows Home editions qualify for Volume License upgrades at educational institutions, which helps keep overall costs down.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it\u002F"\u003EYou can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA separate edition, Windows 11 SE, is designed for use in schools. Windows SE runs on low-cost "web-first" devices and can only be purchased preinstalled on those devices. Users are restricted from using anything except "essential education apps," a category that, naturally, includes Microsoft Office apps, which require a separate subscription.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which editions are available for educational institutions?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0c271a6e-54a1-4d15-802f-d955055f76ab\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft supports several versions of Windows specifically designed for customers who need an operating system that never changes. That's the idea behind the Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), which installs the most basic version of Windows imaginable, with only the most minimal collection of apps. The LTSC editions receive monthly security updates, but they don't get annual feature updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwiping-your-windows-laptop-heres-the-simplest-way-to-erase-all-personal-data\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWiping your Windows laptop? Here's the simplest way to erase all personal data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's an alluring pitch to Windows enthusiasts who want to avoid any kind of disruption in their workflow. Alas, most people who fall into that category are ineligible to install the LTSC edition, which can be purchased only by Volume License customers. There are, of course, ways to work around those restrictions, but it's almost certain that you'll be in violation of a licensing agreement if you do. So tread carefully.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Who can install the long-term support editions?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"22f260d1-53f9-438b-853d-0431db81cd3f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft also offers Windows IoT Enterprise editions designed for use on ATMs, point-of-sale devices, and industrial robots. You, as a consumer, will not care that your bank's ATM runs some weird embedded edition of Windows. You will only notice when it crashes (rarely, one hopes) and someone is there to snap a picture of the error message and post it to their favorite social media platform.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd that's everything you need to know about Windows editions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAny questions?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are these oddball editions?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E[Editor's note: The original version of this article was written and published in 2015, covering Windows 10. It has been completely updated and republished multiple times since then. The most recent update, covering Windows 11, was published in November 2024.]\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-08 13:41:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"When you buy a new PC, you typically have a choice of only two Windows editions. But other specialized editions are available, and you might stumble across one of them if you look in the right places. Here's what you need to know.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"12ec3880-423c-4cc5-b561-5f104336fc7c",image:{id:"6bf33c89-27e5-4924-81cd-7895f8e160f7",filename:"gettyimages-1387615811.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-08 13:18:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"windows-10-skus-thmb.jpg",credits:"Federico Moreno\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F08\u002F6bf33c89-27e5-4924-81cd-7895f8e160f7\u002Fgettyimages-1387615811.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:4096,height:2160,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"windows-11-editions-explained-versions-skus-and-home-vs-pro",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Windows 11 editions explained: Versions, SKUs, and Home vs. Pro",topic:{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a7541fc9-481d-4856-bc68-646cc7c47034\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Thanasis\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"warning label\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-182929759.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F07\" data-image-crop=\"1732x973+0+101\" data-image-width=\"1732\" data-image-height=\"1732\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter months of beta testing, Microsoft officially released its major 2024 update for Windows 11 on October 1. Known as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhats-new-in-windows-11-24h2-and-when-will-your-pc-get-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 24H2\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the latest version enhances the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilots-wave-2-is-here-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, spruces up File Explorer, promises faster performance and greater stability, and kicks in other improvements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocked-your-windows-11-upgrade-this-tool-can-get-the-job-done\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This tool can fix that\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the update rolling to some Windows 11 users, you may find it appearing on your PC's Windows Update screen. If so, you can certainly install it from there. Otherwise, the new version is accessible on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-gb\u002Fsoftware-download\u002Fwindows11\"\u003EMicrosoft's Download Windows 11 page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E where you can grab it through the Installation Assistant, installation media, or as an ISO file.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut wait. Before you dive into the 2024 update, you may want to reconsider. The new version has been plagued by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-9-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea variety of bugs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that could prevent you from fully using Windows the way you want and expect.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome of the glitches have been documented by Microsoft, and others have been reported by Windows users. In response, Microsoft has \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-blocks-windows-11-24h2-update-for-some-pcs-following-bug-onslaught\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eput the update on hold for problematic PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that could encounter blue screens and other issues. Though the company hasn't paused the update for all Windows 11 users, the glitches present a good reason for holding off on this one until Microsoft can fix them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are just some of the issues you may bump into if you jump to the new version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. System File Checker bug\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKnown as SFC, the Windows System File Checker scans your drive for corrupted system files and attempts to repair or replace any that are problematic. Running the command sfc \u002Fscannow at a prompt kicks off the scan. If any corrupted files are found, SFC automatically fixes them. Run the scan again, and your system should now get a clean bill of health.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fis-onedrive-moving-all-your-files-how-to-take-back-control-of-your-windows-storage-3-ways\u002F\"\u003EIs OneDrive moving all your files? How to take back control of your Windows storage - 3 ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the Windows 11 2024 update, the System File Checker \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-update-plagued-by-file-scanner-bug-over-and-over-again\u002F\"\u003Egets caught in a loop of false positives\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. No matter how many times you run the tool, it will tell you that it found and fixed corrupt files. Testing the bug, the folks at Windows Latest discovered that the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowslatest.com\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F10\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-bug-causes-sfc-scannow-to-detect-corrupt-files-in-every-scan-webview2\u002F\"\u003ESFC scan sees the hash values for certain WebView2-related files as a mismatch\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with the expected values. That's why these files are incorrectly tagged as corrupted. Until this glitch is fixed, the File Checker is of little use in the latest update to Windows 11.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"80d3289c-683d-41b8-8fb8-97a93268d6dd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"System File Checker bug\" data-image-filename=\"figure-1-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1105\" data-image-height=\"661\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Cache file deletion glitch\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Windows 11 2024 update leaves behind an 8.63GB update cache that you seemingly can't delete through the usual removal methods. As evidence, the amount of free space on your hard drive fails to change after you try to delete this cache. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, Microsoft has \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#3057msgdesc\"\u003Econfirmed that this is a reporting bug\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Choosing the option for \"Windows Update Cleanup\" when running Disk Cleanup does actually remove the cache. The cleanup tool mistakenly reports the freed-up disk space as still available for cleanup.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0b53a31a-47f0-4d1c-801e-96838cc45162\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Cache file deletion glitch\" data-image-filename=\"figure-2-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1197\" data-image-height=\"804\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Conflict with Easy Anti-Cheat online gaming app\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA program known as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.easy.ac\u002Fen-US\"\u003EEasy Anti-Cheat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is automatically installed with some online games to prevent cheating. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#263msgdesc\"\u003EWindows 11 2024 doesn't play well with this software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as users can experience the dreaded Blue Screen of Death, at least in rare cases, according to Microsoft.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-still-upgrade-old-pcs-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-readers-prove-it\u002F\"\u003EYou can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove it\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnly devices with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors and vPro platform are affected. Microsoft is working with the developer of Easy Anti-Cheat to resolve the glitch. Until then, those who run this app on PCs with the affected Intel chip should be aware of the conflict.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5eedc7fc-7fcc-40d6-ac0d-24bfc49f213f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Anti-Cheat online gaming app\" data-image-filename=\"figure-3-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1241\" data-image-height=\"577\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. Blue screens in other instances\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond the clash with Easy Anti-Cheat, other situations can lead to the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in the Windows 11 2024 update. Intel and Microsoft have discovered \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#386msgdesc\"\u003Eincompatibility issues with certain drivers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for Intel Smart Sound Technology (Intel SST) on Intel 11th Gen Core processors. People running the affected driver and Windows 11 24H2 could run into blue screens.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcant-quit-windows-10-microsoft-will-charge-for-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003ECan't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will charge for updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESources told Windows Latest that Microsoft is reportedly aware of a glitch in the 24H2 update that causes \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowslatest.com\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F15\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-causing-bsods-microsoft-will-reportedly-halt-update-for-more-pcs\u002F\"\u003Eblue screening for PCs with certain Western Digital SSDs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This one has affected Lenovo, Asus VivoBook, and other model computers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn another issue \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowslatest.com\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F27\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-issues-break-internet-wi-fi-network-sharing-cause-more-bsods\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Espotted by Windows Latest\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, PCs with Z890 motherboards sold by MSI, Asus, and other vendors can run into blue screens. This occurs most notably on systems with the Core Ultra 200S series and its integrated Xe-LPG graphics.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"eeecf192-607a-4671-8db2-176483894d05\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Alyson Windsor\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Blue screen\" data-image-filename=\"figure-4-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"803\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. Disappearing mouse pointer\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA bug in Windows 11 24H2 and other recent Windows updates \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowslatest.com\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F08\u002Fa-windows-11-24h2-bug-is-so-odd-that-it-causes-the-mouse-pointer-cursor-to-disappear\u002F\"\u003Ecauses the mouse pointer or cursor to vanish\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in Chromium-based apps such as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, according to Windows Latest. The glitch only occurs when you interact with a text input field, though there is a workaround for it, which Windows Latest describes in its article.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"407d58e2-eec8-4ac5-a2d1-f084242e2032\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Mouse pointer setup\" data-image-filename=\"figure-5-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1175\" data-image-height=\"679\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E6. Internet connection issues\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome people who've installed the Windows 11 2024 update report that their \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fanswers.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fforum\u002Fall\u002Fproblem-in-network-windows-11-24h2\u002Fac1e20e5-091a-45ab-a3c7-94ca7b31577d?page=1\"\u003Einternet connections are now glitchy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. As discovered by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwindowsreport.com\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-is-causing-some-huge-issues-with-internet-connectivity\u002F\"\u003EWindows Report\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, these users seem to be able to connect via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, but they don't receive a valid IP address and therefore can't get an internet or network connection. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\"\u003EThe best VPN services of 2024: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENeither updating drivers and firmware nor resetting the network connectivity resolves the problem. In certain cases, using a static IP address instead of a dynamic address resolves the issue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"208d2220-7a5b-45a6-9a32-a9d67cbc54f1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Internet connection\" data-image-filename=\"figure-6-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1029\" data-image-height=\"454\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E7. Fingerprint sensor glitch\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Microsoft, after updating to Windows 11 24H2, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2#3376msgdesc\"\u003Efingerprint sensors on a limited number of PCs may become unresponsive\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. If you lock the device and then try to unlock it with a fingerprint scan, the authentication fails and you have to choose a different method to sign in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"d6273813-edb7-485a-a90c-9b9c5b53eedd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Fingerprint sensor\" data-image-filename=\"figure-7-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"516\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E8. Broken clipboard history\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Windows clipboard history is a great tool for storing and syncing a history of copied clipboard items across multiple devices. I've liked this feature ever since Microsoft introduced it in 2018. Alas, the latest Windows 11 update breaks the clipboard history, at least for some people.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F\"\u003EThe best Windows laptops: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowslatest.com\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F16\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-clipboard-history-blank-disk-cleanup-reporting-issues\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Espotted by Windows Latest\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, dozens of users chiming in on different online forums report that the tool keeps insisting that the clipboard history is empty even though they've already copied one or more items to it. Though this bug seems to affect only a small number of users, it was flagged by Windows Insider testers a few months ago. But apparently, Microsoft didn't bother to fix it or didn't fix it properly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"bd0194df-bcab-4b8c-9750-2a1e1cdbbb71\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by Lance Whitney\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"No clipboard history\" data-image-filename=\"figure-8-avoid-the-windows-11-2024-update-for-now-heres-why.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F17\" data-image-width=\"1200\" data-image-height=\"699\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E9. Network sharing doesn't work\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's another network-related issue triggered by the 24H2 update on some PCs. In this one, either the computer or other devices fail to appear in the network list, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.windowslatest.com\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F27\u002Fwindows-11-24h2-issues-break-internet-wi-fi-network-sharing-cause-more-bsods\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eaccording to Windows Latest\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. As a result, you're unable to share files and printers between different PCs. The problem could be related to Function Discovery Resource Publication (FDResPub), which lets Windows 11 remain visible on the network. As a workaround, some people have resolved the glitch by setting FDResPub to start manually instead of automatically.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E10. Printer issues with ARM-based Copilot+ PCs\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet another issue that has been popping up affects people who own Copilot+ PCs. Based on several user reports \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.neowin.net\u002Fnews\u002Fmicrosoft-quietly-admits-windows-11-24h2-printer-issues-on-arm-no-word-on-amd-or-intel\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Espotted by Neowin\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, some users who upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 are unable to set up or use a printer. The glitch seems to be hitting those with printers made by HP, Canon, and Brother as well as other manufacturers. Microsoft has posted \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fhelp-with-installing-printers-on-arm-pcs-fe3e5b19-a15a-4ae6-a0c0-502b45f1b4c9\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea support article\u003C\u002Fa\u003E highlighting the problem and offering some workarounds. But at this point, this bug remains unresolved.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft to start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese are just some of the glitches plaguing Microsoft and its users with the Windows 11 2024 update. Microsoft has listed several others on its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flearn.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Frelease-health\u002Fstatus-windows-11-24h2\"\u003EKnown Issues and Notifications page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI installed the update on a test Windows 11 PC and have encountered a few of the bugs described here and others. A calendar and contact syncing program I use called Sync2Cloud won't run in Windows 11 24H2. Two driver updates from Intel keep failing when I try to install them. Connecting to the PC using Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection doesn't always work the first time around.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-delays-its-troubled-ai-powered-recall-feature-yet-again\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft delays its troubled AI-powered Recall feature yet again\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome conflicts are expected when Microsoft rolls out a major new Windows update. Even with widescale beta testing, not every potential problem will be found. However, issues like these are still frustrating for those of us who need to use Windows for work and other tasks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, the number of bugs in Windows 11 24H2 seems greater than in past annual Windows updates. The ongoing spread of one bug after another and Microsoft's need to stall the update for many people both point to a problem with this latest update. Until all or most of these bugs can be squashed, I advise Windows 11 users to hold off on the 2024 update and stick with their current version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-07 20:05:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Microsoft's official 24H2 update for Windows 11 has been saddled with one bug after another. Here's why you should avoid updating and what you may find if you jump into the new version right now.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"2df2d275-2681-4460-ab26-c7bb2d3bf47d",image:{id:"27c48bfb-cdab-4dd6-b64a-606c3aea92c3",filename:"gettyimages-182929759.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-07 16:34:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"warning label",credits:"Thanasis\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F07\u002F27c48bfb-cdab-4dd6-b64a-606c3aea92c3\u002Fgettyimages-182929759.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:"1732x973+0+99",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:1732,height:1732,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"the-windows-11-24h2-bug-list-grows-again-10-reasons-to-avoid-this-update-for-now",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"The Windows 11 24H2 bug list grows again: 10 reasons to avoid this update for now",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"97e096ab-1a2f-479b-b8c6-7abec11c1087",username:"lancewhitney",profileUrl:c,email:c,firstName:"Lance",lastName:"Whitney",jobTitle:c,dateCreated:{created:c,date:c,timezone:c,updated:c,published:c},image:{id:"6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2",filename:"lance-31.png",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2023-05-12 19:35:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:c,credits:c,caption:c,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F12\u002F6835195a-fcd2-43b2-918b-8f61bcdb9fd2\u002Flance-31.png",cropGravity:c,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:c,height:c,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},socialProfileIds:c,authorBio:"Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer with a background in IT. He's written for a host of sites and publications, including TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, AskWoody, Time, Fortune, and AARP Magazine. He spent seven years writing breaking news for CNET and six years writing a monthly column about Microsoft utilities for the late TechNet Magazine. He's written two books for Wiley & Sons - \"Windows 8: Five Minutes at a Time\" and \"Teach Yourself Visually LinkedIn.\" He also teaches both online and in-person computer classes on such topics as Windows, Microsoft Office, eBay, social media, and cybersecurity. And in a past life, he worked in IT for an international company providing product management and systems support in the U.S. and abroad.",profile:c,title:b,bio:b,bureau:"AU",awards:b,expertise:b,authorDisclosure:c},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"3dd7a2bf-06c9-46e1-8cab-17d09124c9ee\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Microsoft\" data-image-alt-text=\"The AI-based Rewrite feature in Notepad in Windows 11\" data-image-filename=\"figure-top-watch-out-windows-notepad-users-here-comes-ai.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F11\u002F07\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"900\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWere you thinking Microsoft has added AI to virtually its \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-copilot-ai-is-coming-to-your-office-apps-whether-you-like-it-or-not\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eentire software lineup\u003C\u002Fa\u003E except for Notepad? Well, here comes an update to prove you wrong.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow rolling out to Windows Insiders in Windows 11 is a new Rewrite option for Notepad that promises to spruce up your text with the help of AI. Using an AI model called GPT, Rewrite can revise sentences, modify the tone, or alter the length of your text, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fwindows\u002Fuse-rewrite-in-notepad-to-enhance-your-writing-with-ai-4088b954-c97b-46dc-813f-959be01746d5\"\u003Eexplains Microsoft\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosofts-copilot-ai-is-coming-to-your-office-apps-whether-you-like-it-or-not\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft's Copilot AI is coming to your Office apps - whether you like it or not\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo take Rewrite for a spin, you'll need the latest Canary or Dev build on Windows 11. Assuming you're already registered with the Windows Insider program with either of these builds, head to Settings, select Windows Update, and click the button for Check for Updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou should also make sure you're running the latest version of Notepad. For that, open the Microsoft Store app, click the icon for Downloads, and then update all your installed apps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFurther, you'll need to be signed into Windows with the Microsoft account registered with the Insider program. Microsoft says that's because Rewrite is a cloud-based service that requires authentication and access to the AI credits necessary for generating content.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, fire up Notepad and type some text you want to revise, anything from a couple of words to an entire document. Right-click on the selected text and choose Rewrite, select the Rewrite button on the toolbar, or press Ctrl + I. Next, tell Rewrite how to handle the revision. You can choose among different options, such as making the text longer or shorter, switching the tone between casual and professional, and even modifying the overall format.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-search-engine\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI search engines: Google, Perplexity, and more\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn response, the AI overhauls your text and generates three versions of the rewrite. Check each version to find the one you prefer. If you don't like any of them, tweak the settings and try again. When a suitable draft finally pops up, apply the changes to your original text.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Foffice\u002Funderstanding-ai-credits-68530f1a-4459-4d02-9818-8233c1f673b8\"\u003EAI credits\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that Microsoft doles out for Rewrite vary based on a couple of factors.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose of you in the US, UK, Canada, France, Italy, and Germany start with 50 credits. Subscribers to Microsoft 365 Personal or Family get 60 credits per month, an option that also includes people in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECopilot Pro users get \"extensive use of AI features,\" which sounds like Microsoft speak for unlimited use. The AI credits are accepted not just in Notepad but in other Microsoft products such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Forms, Designer, Photos, and Paint.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11-two-ways\u002F\"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two ways\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you chew up your monthly allotment of credits, you can purchase more but only by subscribing to Microsoft 365 or \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Otherwise, the credits are automatically replenished at the start of each month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith the Rewrite feature currently limited to the Dev or Canary \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-join-microsofts-windows-insider-program-and-why-you-should\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 insider builds\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, we'll likely have to wait at least a few months before the option pops up in the standard version of Notepad.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbc4074e0-359d-459b-b3db-941877b80949\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:c,category:c,children:c,contentType:b,contentUrl:b,coreImages:c,date:c,datePublished:{created:c,date:"2024-11-07 18:34:31",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},description:"Currently available to Windows Insiders in Windows 11, Microsoft's new AI-powered Rewrite feature will help you fine-tune your prose in Notepad.",filterKey:c,filterLabel:c,genreGroups:c,icon:b,nodeId:b,subCategory:c,id:"ad7ea9f3-5e1c-4cd8-831f-dd5b28258aae",image:{id:"74ae631d-6b3d-4768-a1e4-34c41482753c",filename:"mslogosmallscreenshot-2024-11-07-133203.jpg",dateCreated:{created:c,date:"2024-11-07 18:32:53",timezone:"UTC",updated:c,published:c},alt:"mslogosmallscreenshot-2024-11-07-133203",credits:"tupungato\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F07\u002F74ae631d-6b3d-4768-a1e4-34c41482753c\u002Fmslogosmallscreenshot-2024-11-07-133203.jpg",cropGravity:o,crop:c,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:c,width:806,height:527,bucketPath:c,bucketType:c,title:c},label:b,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:b,promoTitle:b,section:b,slug:"watch-out-windows-notepad-users-here-comes-ai",startYear:c,summary:b,title:"Watch out, Windows Notepad users: Here comes AI",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:b,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:c,type:"content_article",typeName:b,url:b,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:c,description:c,filters:c,paging:c,slug:"dynamic-topic-river-alt-latest-offset-10",title:c,label:c,viewMoreText:c,viewMoreUrl:c,relatedItems:c}];k.footer=[];k.debug=c;k.isSeamless=d;n[0]=b;return {layout:"default",data:[{content:k}],fetch:{},error:c,state:{brand:e,edition:f,hasAffiliateDisclosure:d,overlayActive:d,breakingNews:d,innovationIndexTrends:d,trackedComponents:{components:{}},routeHistory:{currentPath:l},dynamicComponents:{fiveStoryFeatures:c},i18n:{routeParams:{}},services:{features:{debug:a,"core.abtest":a,ads:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},adDisplay:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},adSense:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},amazonNative:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},mediaNet:a,taboola:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},amazonNca:a,bidbarrel:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},indexexchange:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["sem-landing"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}}}},auth:a,dapi:d,disqus:a,editions:a,mpulse:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}},myfinance:a,newsletter:a,iterable:a,bluehornet:d,gdpr:d,wamhmd:d,oneTrust:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d}},serverScripts:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}},seamless:{positiveNextStep:{key:"seamless",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[a],notAllowedValues:[b]},isKeyRequired:d,positiveNextStep:{clientFunc:h,crawlers:["Yeti","Baiduspider","Linespider","googlebot"],criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:[]},allowedValues:["Yeti","Baiduspider","Linespider","googlebot"],positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWaUser"}}}}},"core.shortcode.render":a,"core.shortcode.inject":a,vanity:a,"vanity.mask":a,chartbeatVideo:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d}},cohesion:a,tagular:a,googleAnalytics:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}},chartbeat:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d}},comscore:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}},"comscore.pageView":{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}},facebook:a,"500px":a,flickr:a,gifv:a,google_maps:a,imgur:a,instagram:a,playbuzz:a,reddit:a,seoclarity:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}},scribd:a,soundcloud:a,twitter:a,video:a,vimeo:a,youtube:a,admiral:d,audiencescience:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},branch:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},crazyegg:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},dw:a,facebookmarketing:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},googleremarketing:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},nielsen:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},qualtricsNoTealium:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}},sitecatalyst:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}},trackonomics:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},trueanthem:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},viglink:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},bomboraNoTealium:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute",positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}}}},metapixel:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}}},isWaUser:d,adDisplayCriteria:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[a],notAllowedValues:[]}}},admiralZD:a,article:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d}},articleWatchAndReadVideo:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{key:"siteSection",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["top_funnel"],notAllowedValues:[]}}}},bestList:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["best-list"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["credit-cards"]}}}}},bestListExcludeHO:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["best-list"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"siteHier",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["home-and-office"]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["credit-cards"]}}}}}},bottomFunnel:{positiveNextStep:{key:"siteSection",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["bottom_funnel"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},bottomFunnelDesktop:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{key:"siteSection",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["bottom_funnel"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[g],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["zd-academy"]}}}}}},bottomFunnelExcludeHO:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{key:"siteSection",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["bottom_funnel"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"siteHier",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["home-and-office"]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["credit-cards","zd-academy"]}}}}}},codesnippet:{positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]}}},disableVideoShare:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["video-share"]},strictCompare:d}},excludeNewsletterGenerator:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["newsletter-generator"]},strictCompare:d}},excludeScrappyLiveArticle:{positiveNextStep:{key:"tagSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["live-blog-article-page"]}}},excludeWAHealthRoute:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWAHealthRoute"}},excludeWaUser:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaName:"isWaUser"}},isBl1AdCapMobileTest:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["mobile"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["best-list"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["artificial-intelligence","energy","gaming","headphones","fitness","ipad","kitchen-household","laptops","mobile-accessories","services-software","smartphones","smart-watches","tablets","tvs","video-streaming-services","wearables"]}}}}}},isBl2AdCapMobileTest:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["mobile"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["best-list"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["artificial-intelligence","energy","gaming","headphones","fitness","ipad","kitchen-household","laptops","mobile-accessories","services-software","smartphones","smart-watches","tablets","tvs","video-streaming-services","wearables"],notAllowedValues:[]}}}}}},isCtaPricingTest:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["article","article-topic"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d,positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["best-list"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["credit-cards","services-software","video-streaming-services","vpn"]}}}}},isHealthTopic:{positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["health","wearables"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},isNotSpecialFeature:{positiveNextStep:{key:"collectionTypeSlug",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["special-feature"]}}},isPrecapVsHeroTest:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleId",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["5b09adba-7d6c-47b3-a695-c30c1244a9cc","aebbd157-dec9-4804-9499-11b0d037179f"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},isSponsoredArticle:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleId",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["44e0db41-5168-4c68-acb2-55345dc5bde5","92885a43-226b-429e-83fd-b76f19aae5be"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},isSponsoredArticleWithSkybox:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleId",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["8d8721c6-ebcd-4d72-a396-b9af076bb405","dd6973c9-262a-466b-aba6-7c7d24d8f7a0","d5410db3-aa5a-45dc-99f1-be33bb78b973","be40c610-c7cd-47fa-99ed-331b7c8670c5"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},isWAHealthRoute:{positiveNextStep:{key:"wamhmd",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[a],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["health","wearables"],notAllowedValues:[]}}}},review:{positiveNextStep:{criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["review"],notAllowedValues:[]},strictCompare:d}},reviewSingle:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["review-single"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},topFunnel:{positiveNextStep:{key:"siteSection",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["top_funnel"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},bestListAdTestLessAdsIds:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleId",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["2a3b69e3-908b-4052-8285-5a388a1b4e0f","ca375b14-e3c6-442d-9072-31bbf137d891","4f2d3656-fe98-4a02-b003-8676e8d82b65","005432f8-3869-421b-8f89-c96960c36722","7319b498-b3e0-43c6-83d0-6504b6290197","19ad1910-5f95-4876-aa7a-bda2bedfab4d","09a2aae1-f64b-4b75-9d84-9b259c2a746d","fc7753cd-3de2-4b7c-9035-b8de4b757865","8cb942fe-abc6-4e01-8125-b61ddd1892b4","c047e1cd-17ec-4b81-89b6-61e04233d0a4","ac1c579d-aacf-418a-8522-6796b481ea6c","dac15bdb-4836-46c4-abfb-a347e885da69","fab6d15f-a60c-4210-a370-afe798ab99a7","3343a465-879b-4402-bd0e-93a1010e2a64","e89c2b8d-2a78-42d3-9578-011ce641d6dd","6c573a1e-b1ce-40a4-b54c-02557b47f8fe","60f264ba-02bd-4d14-8a6e-de9c7d818fb2","3a2692a2-f74b-46d4-a36c-0c82397e3092","8b9a60a3-bef0-4ec1-84f2-f91a82f514d9","4fbede34-929d-4f04-b609-78205cae5eef","c921b114-35a4-41d7-afc0-5f530fbba76c","caf8707e-56be-464e-b86d-8dc48695ffd9","62e2b1ae-d79f-4c9b-aa86-77df5c59d690","1ab5800a-a5ef-4594-93d2-716d844f4bdf","04556907-5e7e-43bd-9d53-f1174f8cc1ec","9db28842-64be-4359-9895-5d0b497d327a","c594fe7d-bba9-40e5-b4cc-2434cca0a226","a3b61f52-3d2f-4f66-8b9c-97b5067d9e60","5c9727e6-2cce-4e59-a55c-ecd12081d321","04a3966d-3338-4f97-a80b-56d2531a7288","f137fbf7-7abc-493f-b321-4c6da363c0de","640c8359-754e-4e2d-b502-6c834ecbf9cc","3e22955e-a2cb-415f-a33a-3dd3d8f0c807","2406e917-ad41-4ac3-a1e2-5e059cb230aa","0a6c81c1-9494-4c13-860a-2763fdf7c1c5","be5e5ff6-01c0-4a15-916a-093de5305f00","2fb4a5d2-3ca4-4af4-bc44-b0d44124d408","e94c5622-d76e-4116-b1cf-999c9b1280bd","8ed23e97-0313-4eed-93ab-f919abde4b0c","d582c94f-6422-48f0-a40b-fa366086f9ba","d99d179b-ffcc-4f72-b17e-3fab36bfe1cc"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},bestListAdTestMoreAdsIds:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleId",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["831d5ebe-c592-45d5-93d2-0d96149acff8","68275bf6-b8ae-4305-8b43-b5262a76642d","5337f3f5-0ce7-4387-9ca3-1c70f02ed1ef","7bae68f7-7eab-4eef-bb3d-85a18d942caa","d2054c3e-fd41-4653-b9a2-a4c2912af497","6104864b-ee9d-42df-b56a-de0c8c24a6bc","fc351358-34ac-4c8b-8679-6578e88ebc0e","135d1307-3a85-4e26-aa32-fdf8591678b9","298e07bf-cadd-4161-9b8e-54841d4527dd","d2dc4f4d-bfff-4c89-a638-f09d636bc455","b57bdedd-e9f7-4432-b4c3-100783e3a8e1","8ccd4e32-280f-4b36-b9c0-0270b6a043f5","f2c14b2e-3553-426c-be17-27a995c4e9c4","9103ef46-5706-4a57-92d5-324fb42f20b1","5a2a5a16-4145-4bde-91a7-865fef73f5eb","d80397e4-f60e-4b86-a9e3-ed5acc0fb574","8abb6389-8ee2-49dc-b33e-f4e9d079431d","de8ce092-a96c-4ef3-9e2f-35c806a2ac9f","5b09adba-7d6c-47b3-a695-c30c1244a9cc","aebbd157-dec9-4804-9499-11b0d037179f","5e896849-0228-4e4f-8e53-a4493a1eb218","6b1102e8-0086-42c7-82c4-9504ccd8e9d5","48efe642-56f4-41e5-8f28-f40448e6ea85","71d33bfd-40cb-4841-ae93-d45fc2d8a30e","cbc5b859-bde1-428b-988b-5246605ebbe6","90f335e0-47a1-4749-a0bb-e70f29034f3d","852ac291-7c06-4257-8a5f-7acfee841bc0","5a434871-8e85-4891-ae35-9f5978fbf33f","868a7ec8-2dfa-422d-869a-90e798041951","e645c91c-542d-45f1-979b-bd548bc69bf3","f8f4d7cc-a5cd-4a6b-b3b8-f141d2a15452","14d909f9-34c1-4d19-aa8c-7e20010fa6f0","dc50f9c0-6a8c-420a-a458-b4b1e88e97da","02d6bcfa-cd61-4fab-9975-aaeb1f7bc669","face0478-3781-430d-b2ba-7495bee62f30","efd76db9-0a86-4fb8-b340-dc13064abaac","829c2f2e-cb16-4691-9f86-115ea9ee0062","76f2fe0a-3125-4bb1-9c67-9ada01b43877","c77e10c2-d0d1-417d-85e7-a107f681417d","719267fd-1bfa-47ee-9426-c930c97bd83b","d1d68c0c-bc80-424f-a429-3f2ba0d6c995","08b2c43e-4253-4e2c-b3f1-3071978a89b0","a5e9bb15-5c74-47ed-8ef6-907044f93841","0a295d91-e65b-4fc4-8d69-bcbdc99706dd","b8abfdca-7152-4d34-91e1-63e0cf092234","fc56430b-8730-46ca-904b-92ecbad4da50"],notAllowedValues:[]}}},viewDetailsPrecap:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["best-list"],notAllowedValues:[]},positiveNextStep:{key:"topicSlugs",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["laptops","vpn"],notAllowedValues:[]}}}},isAdLibVariant:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:[],notAllowedValues:["best-list"]}}},isProductPromo:{positiveNextStep:{key:"articleSubType",criteriaValueHolder:{allowedValues:["product-promo"],notAllowedValues:[]}}}},hidLoaded:{"ld+json":a,"chartbeat/config":a,"cohesion/abtest":a},overrides:{}},root:{environment:"production",version:b},scripts:{loadedTagIds:["window-watcher","vguid","neutronWaitForService","mpulse-BOOMR","bidBarrel","bidbarrel-lib","gpt","index-exchange","amazon-bidder","amazon-nca","ad-sense","media.net-init","ot-sdk-stub","font-semiBold","font-regular","trueanthem","utag_data","qualtrics","cohesion","google_analytics_vars","google_analytics","chartbeat\u002Fmab","facebook","ziffcore"],scripts:[]},ab:{id:c,version:c,bucket:c},ads:{adDisplay:{containerId:b,disableAdIncrement:d,disableInitialLoad:d,slotVars:{topics:b,network:h,platform:g,siteName:e},skyboxBodyClasses:c,skyboxRefresh:c,skyboxSlotName:"pageDynamicDoorSkybox",skyboxHasOmnibar:d,targeting:{cid:i,collection:b,edition:f,section:b,pageType:b,ptype:j,pid:h,tag:b,topic:b,ptopic:b,type:"content_topic",device:g,env:m,test:b},enabled:a},adSense:{ads:[],pageOptions:{personalizedAds:d}}},auth:{fetchComplete:d,loggedIn:d,profile:c,user:c},device:{device:g},disqus:{isOpen:d,page:{api_key:b,identifier:b,remote_auth_s3:c,title:b,url:b},units:{}},newsletter:{newsletters:c,userSubscriptions:c},page:{pages:[k,h],header:[{id:"d324d261-6567-42d5-a310-90ebae26beb1",meta:{componentName:"editorial-links-header",componentDisplayName:"Editorial Header Links",componentType:"EditorialLinks"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Feditorial\u002Fmixed_editorial\u002Fheader-topics-us\u002Fweb?searchBy=slug&componentType=EditorialLinks&componentName=editorial-links-header&componentDisplayName=Editorial Header Links"}},componentLabel:"Header Links US",description:"Provides links for the header",items:[{label:c,linkText:"Black Friday 2024: Everything you need to know about holiday shopping",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fearly-black-friday-2024-everything-you-need-to-know-about-holiday-shopping\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|black-friday-2024:-everything-you-need-to-know-about-holiday-shopping"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday deals overall 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-deals-overall-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday TV deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-black-friday-tv-deals-11-18-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-tv-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday Walmart deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-walmart-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-walmart-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday Amazon deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-black-friday-amazon-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-amazon-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday Target deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-target-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-target-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday Sam's Club deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-black-friday-sams-club-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-sam's-club-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday soundbar deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-black-friday-soundbar-and-speaker-deals\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-soundbar-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday phone deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-black-friday-phone-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-phone-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday AirPods deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-black-friday-phone-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-airpods-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday Apple Watch deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-black-friday-apple-watch-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-apple-watch-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday gaming PC deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-black-friday-gaming-pc-deals-11-19-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-gaming-pc-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday Nintendo deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-black-friday-nintendo-switch-deals-11-19-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-nintendo-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Black Friday laptop deals 2024",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-black-friday-laptop-deals-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|best-black-friday-laptop-deals-2024"},{label:c,linkText:"Vizio 5.1 Soundbar SE is $80 off ahead of Black Friday",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fone-of-the-best-cheap-soundbars-ive-tested-performs-as-well-as-models-twice-its-price-and-its-on-sale\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|vizio-5.1-soundbar-se-is-$80-off-ahead-of-black-friday"},{label:c,linkText:"GE Opal 2.0 ice maker is $150 off ahead of Black Friday",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fkitchen-household\u002Fi-tested-a-luxury-nugget-ice-maker-and-its-totally-worth-it-and-its-on-sale-for-black-friday\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|ge-opal-2.0-ice-maker-is-$150-off-ahead-of-black-friday"},{label:c,linkText:"Hisense U8N TV is up to $1,100 off ahead of Black Friday",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fhisense-u8n-black-friday-deal-11-20-2024\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|hisense-u8n-tv-is-up-to-$1,100-off-ahead-of-black-friday"},{label:c,linkText:"How to use Bluesky Social",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-bluesky-social-everything-to-know-about-the-popular-x-alternative\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|how-to-use-bluesky-social"},{label:c,linkText:"How to download YouTube videos for free",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fhow-to-download-youtube-videos-for-free-2-ways\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|how-to-download-youtube-videos-for-free"},{label:c,linkText:"ZDNET Recommends",linkUrl:"\u002Fzdnet-recommends\u002F",trackingName:"header-trendingmenu|zdnet-recommends"}]},{id:"53da97c5-3f36-4980-accd-8a8f70ef58a9",meta:{componentName:"editorial-links-header-buying-guides",componentDisplayName:"Editorial Header Links Buying Guides",componentType:"EditorialLinks"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Feditorial\u002Fmixed_editorial\u002Fheader-topics-buying-guides\u002Fweb?searchBy=slug&componentType=EditorialLinks&componentName=editorial-links-header-buying-guides&componentDisplayName=Editorial Header Links Buying Guides"}},componentLabel:c,description:c,items:[{label:c,linkText:"See all Buying Guides",linkUrl:"\u002Fbest-products\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|see-all-buying-guides"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Samsung phones",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-samsung-phone\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-samsung-phones"},{label:c,linkText:"Best Android phones",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-android-phone\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-android-phones"},{label:c,linkText:"Best smart rings",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-ring\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-smart-rings"},{label:c,linkText:"Best blood pressure watches",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-blood-pressure-watch\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-blood-pressure-watches"},{label:c,linkText:"Best headphones for sleeping",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-headphones-for-sleeping\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-headphones-for-sleeping"},{label:c,linkText:"Best robot vacuum mops",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fkitchen-household\u002Fbest-robot-vacuum-mop\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-robot-vacuum-mops"},{label:c,linkText:"Best web hosting services",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-web-hosting-services"},{label:c,linkText:"Best travel VPNs",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-travel-vpn\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-travel-vpns"},{label:c,linkText:"Best VPNs",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-vpns"},{label:c,linkText:"Best AI image generators",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-image-generator\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-ai-image-generators"},{label:c,linkText:"Best AI chatbots",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-ai-chatbots"},{label:c,linkText:"Best 75-inch TVs",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-75-inch-tv\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-75-inch-tvs"},{label:c,linkText:"Best smartphones",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-phone\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-smartphones"},{label:c,linkText:"Best iPhones",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-iphones"},{label:c,linkText:"Best MagSafe battery packs",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-magsafe-battery\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-magsafe-battery-packs"},{label:c,linkText:"Best digital notebooks",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-notebook\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-digital-notebooks"},{label:c,linkText:"Best TV antennas",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-tv-antenna\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-tv-antennas"},{label:c,linkText:"Best TVs",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-tv\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-tvs"},{label:c,linkText:"Best laptops",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-laptops"},{label:c,linkText:"Best tablets",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-tablet\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-tablets"},{label:c,linkText:"Best smartwatches",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smartwatch\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-smartwatches"},{label:c,linkText:"Best headphones",linkUrl:"\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-headphones\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-headphones"},{label:c,linkText:"Best live TV streaming services",linkUrl:"\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-live-tv-streaming-service\u002F",trackingName:"header-buying-guidesmenu|best-live-tv-streaming-services"}]}],footer:c,seamless:[]},video:{video:c,players:[],hasVideo:d,playerState:{autoplay:d,autoplayType:"MANUAL",contentStartTime:c,isAd:c,player:c,sticky:c,videoState:"UNPLAYED"},videoPlaylist:[],inlineClick:{id:b,click:d}},tracking:{data:{pageNumber:1,_pageComponents:"zz01",pageType:j,collectionId:n,contentId:"windows",contentType:"content_feature",siteEdition:f,siteSection:b,tagSlugs:[],topicId:[],topicName:[],topicSlugs:[],articleId:i,brand:e,_collectionPrimaryId:n,deviceType:g,edition:f,error:m,isDev:d,limit:4,pageViewGuid:c,reportSuiteId:"cnetzdnetglobalsite",siteName:e,siteType:"responsive web",soastaBucket:b,soastaPageType:b,testGroup:b,testName:b,testVersion:b,traffic_source:"cloud"},pageComponents:{zz01:a},pageType:j,postId:i,pageScrolledFiredPercentages:[],pageViews:o,sessionId:c,sessionPageViews:o,vguid:c}},serverRendered:a,routePath:l,config:{_app:{basePath:p,assetsPath:p,cdnURL:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fneutron\u002F"}}}}(true,"",null,false,"zdnet","us","desktop",void 0,"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e","category_door",{},"\u002Ftopic\u002Fwindows\u002F","prod",Array(1),0,"\u002F"));</script><script>!function(){var e=document,t=e.createElement("script");if(!("noModule"in t)&&"onbeforeload"in t){var n=!1;e.addEventListener("beforeload",function(e){if(e.target===t)n=!0;else if(!e.target.hasAttribute("nomodule")||!n)return;e.preventDefault()},!0),t.type="module",t.src=".",e.head.appendChild(t),t.remove()}}();</script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/83b9d85.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/a250f9c.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/647e0d2.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/5866a8f.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/a554ae3.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/fa51d66.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/1a23142.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/0732cbc.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/803abeb.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/15d3a1f.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/1c7d819.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/ebaa0c8.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/8d9e729.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/fb8ce3b.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/b0c6b76.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/87f7cf7.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/89a9aca.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/a2d9d80.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/c60f492.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/0726656.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/7b6326f.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/6779bab.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/1a4d792.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/554f0f0.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/5657e25.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/1eaf284.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/37434c0.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/9ddf158.modern.js" defer></script><script nomodule src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/3f4d9fe.js" defer></script><script type="module" src="https://www.zdnet.com/a/neutron/6d48520.modern.js" defer></script> </body> </html>