Microsoft has released a patch to solve the drop in performance of SSDs in Windows 11. The patch is in the preview phase, and for this reason, it has not been disseminated with due publicity, but most affected users can already test it.
The SSD performance drop-in Windows 11 bugs to fix in the latest Microsoft operating system. The problem seems to affect writing tasks more solid-state drives that use Microsoft’s NVMe driver. Whenever available, the use of the manufacturer-provided driver is the first thing to try.
Microsoft published the update KB5007262and buried it in the extensive list of improvements and fixes, and you can read a note that focuses on solving the issue:
“Fixes an issue that affects the performance of all storage drives (NVMe, SSD, hard drives) in Windows 11 by performing unnecessary actions every time a write operation occurs. This problem occurs only when NTFS USN Journal is enabled ‘.
It must be said that this is a feature of the Windows NT file system that keeps a record of the changes made to the volume and that it is always enabled on the system partition, C: so it should affect almost any type of disk you use in Windows 11.
The patch is in the preview phase. It is not final, and perhaps that is why Microsoft has not publicized or delivered it as a general update on Windows Update. But it can be installed by searching for it as an optional update.
Another way to get it is from the Microsoft Update Catalog, a web portal where Microsoft publishes software updates, drivers, and patches. It has a search box to find software using a keyword, KB article, MSRC bulletin, driver manufacturer, driver model, driver version, or product.
It is an excellent way to get updates for Windows. In this case, it is as simple as searching for KB5007262, selecting the appropriate version of the system you are using, downloading, and installing it because it is a cumulative update. Microsoft is due to release a final patch to fix the SSD performance issue soon.
Remote spying through the webcam has been a known issue for more than a decade, and there are not a few users and professionals who have decided to disable it, despite its usefulness in providing us with video, audio communication, and other functions. Even more so since the COVID-19 pandemic confined us at home and we increased the use of video conferencing applications.
The techniques used and the objectives of cyberattacks through the webcam have been very diverse, from government espionage; the installation of malware with tools like Gumfish; the use of vulnerabilities such as Flash Player to take control of machines; as a way of extorting famous people; for “caught” users in undergarments or simply as a pleasure for those “onlookers” who swarm the Internet invading the privacy of others.
If all of the above was severe enough to take action, the image of duct tape covering Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s computer webcam was descriptive enough. The recommendation of the director of the FBI during a conference at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, when he assured that covering the webcam when it is not in use is one of the “prudent actions that any user should take,” again caused a significant amount of debate on personal webcam security.
How to disable the webcam
It is difficult to assess the extent of the risk of using a webcam. Still, suppose you do not use it frequently. In that case, there is no reason to leave a potentially unsafe recording device permanently accessible and active on your computer, accessing your business or home.
We remind you of effective methods to disable the webcam when it is not in use, but at the same time reversible for other times you need to use it.
Unplug. As simple as that. Ninety-nine percent of desktop PC users use an external webcam usually placed on the monitor. Unplugging the USB connector is a foolproof method that works regardless of hardware or operating system. As it is a plug-and-play, it will take a second to reconnect it when you need to use it.
Cover the lens. If you see a sticker on the top frame of a laptop or AIO, you know what it means. It is a simple but very effective method. If a piece of sticker destroys the aesthetics of your brand new laptop, there are more attractive dedicated solutions that can slide off at will, covering the lens or not. There are many very cheap Internet offers.
Deactivation in BIOS. It is another option for laptops or AIOs with integrated webcams that have this option in the BIOS. You reboot, enter the BIOS, and disable an entry that you’ll see as “webcam,” “built-in camera,” or “camera CMOS.” The option is not usual and is only included in some models. Keep in mind that most built-in webcams use the same onboard module as the microphone, so you could leave it disabled. This is a good option if you want complete video and audio privacy because it is unlikely that an attacker will access it, although it takes longer to reactivate it. After all, you have to restart the computer and re-enter the BIOS.
Deactivation in the operating system. You can quickly disable the webcam at the system level in a couple of steps. In Windows, go to the Control Panel, open the Device Manager-Imaging Devices and click on disable or directly on delete. In operating systems like Windows 10 / Windows 8.1, you can also disable the camera in the Settings> Privacy tool.
Lastly, don’t trust the LED activity light. Many webcams include a light that turns on when they are in use, and in this way, we can know if third parties are using it. However, be careful because it is not a foolproof method.
This was demonstrated years ago by researchers from Johns Hopkins University, who created a proof of concept with a remote administration tool (RAT) capable of reprogramming the chip of some cameras. And they did so without activating the notification light, leaving users completely unarmed.
Nothing lasts forever, and you are likely about to end the summer holidays and start a new period of ‘back to school.’ Before entering the daily battle, it is an excellent time to perform maintenance on our favorite computer equipment, performing those set-up tasks that are going to offer us real benefits in terms of performance and reliability, as well as those related to cybersecurity and especially the search for malware on a PC.
The amount of malicious code that reaches global technology week after week is staggering. Install a good security solution to combat it is mandatory in professional areas. We can say almost the same in consumer areas, with the necessary caution when browsing the Internet, downloading files, or correctly managing emails and links on social networks.
How to scan a PC for malware
As not all computers have security solutions installed and also not all types of malware can be fought once the operating system has started because they are loaded in memory, making their detection and elimination difficult, the use of an external means independent of the PC to be analyzed, capable of detecting and disinfecting malware and without the need for a permanent installation that ends up affecting its performance to some degree, it is an ideal solution.
All the big security providers offer these kinds of solutions. Most are Linux-based and provided in “Live CD / USB” formats, created and bootable from optical drives, USB sticks, or external drives.
A list of the best available:
Kaspersky Rescue Disk. Kaspersky has not updated the interface for a long time, but its Gentoo-based rescue disk has the incredible power of the leader in consumer security solutions. You download the ISO image, save it to bootable media, and use it.
ESET SysRescue Live. ESET offers the download of an image to burn and provides the possibility to create it directly on CD or USB. Perfectly updated interface and is very easy to use.
Bitdefender Rescue CD.Personally, it is one of the ones I like the most. It uses a Linux based on Xubuntu that allows greater possibilities and virus elimination. You download the ISO from the link and burn it in the middle.
AVG Rescue CD. Offers two different images for creation on CD or USB. Its interface is quite spartan based on text but doesn’t be scared, it does its job, and like the rest, it previously updates the virus database to the latest available.
Panda SafeDisk. Another that, like Kaspersky, has not been updated for a long time but continues to fulfill its function. Very easy to use because it does not have too many customization options. It loads a wizard that automatically searches for available antivirus definitions and, when start is pressed, begins scanning the entire system for malicious files.
Trend Micro Rescue Disk. Effortless creation of the rescue medium at the click of a button from your website and with the option to choose CD / DVD or USB disk/pen drive. Its interface is the most spartan of the entire list, in a minimalist text mode with a few basic options.
Norton Bootable Recovery Tool.Symantec offers startup disk creation with a wizard that makes it easy to create it without external applications once you have downloaded the tool. Once started, you will see a graphical but minimalist interface without customization options, with two main options: scan and clean.
Avira Rescue System.I offered to download an image to create the medium. Graphical interface with few functions but easy to use. Like others that we have seen with a simple interface, its power lies in the search and disinfection engine and its ability to update the virus database, something that all of them do.
F-Secure Rescue CD.Another of the simplest and at the same time easy to use. There is no natural user interface with a Knoppix database except for a text-based dialog, where you will be asked if you want to start the analysis.
Avast. It is the only one on the list that does not offer direct download of an image, and the only way is to create the rescue disk from an Avast solution. The good news is that it can be done from the free desktop version. The downside is that you have to install it first.
Using these solutions is straightforward once the rescue media is created. We reboot the machine with the medium inserted in its location to boot from it. If we have not done it previously, we will have to enter the BIOS to place the optical or USB drive as the first boot media, always before the hard drive or SSD where we have the system installed.
The media created is a “Live CD” format, so we will not have to install anything on our computer’s hard drive or SSD. Some solutions offer a visual environment and more functions. In contrast, others use a text-mode dedicated entirely to malware, understanding that the main thing is the power of its engine and the updates of its virus base, something that everyone does before scanning the system.
Some solutions are highly customizable, allow you to search for malware, select scan, disinfection, boot sector, quick or complete scan, files and folders on hard drives or external drives, network access, heuristic method, and almost everything can find in one installable security solution.
In summary: A group of excellent tools that any user should not miss because they allow to locate and disinfect malware from a PC in a simple way without touching the operating system. A consumer (because business computers are something else) can save himself on installed antivirus if he is cautious about security and uses it as a regular maintenance task.
BitLocker is a data protection feature that Microsoft has included in the business and professional versions of its operating systems since Windows 8. The company kept it in Windows 10 and will also be usable in the new Windows 11 beta-tested for public launch in the last quarter of 2021.
In case you do not know, BitLocker is a security tool that allows you to encrypt or “encode” the computer’s data to keep it protected, facing threats such as data theft or exposure in case of loss, theft, or withdrawal of inappropriate equipment of an IT infrastructure. Something that happens too many times.
BitLocker protection on operating system drives supports two-factor authentication using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) in conjunction with a personal identification number (PIN) or startup key and one-factor authentication using storing a key on a USB flash drive or using only the TPM.
Using BitLocker with a TPM provides more excellent data protection and helps ensure the integrity of the initial boot component. Remember that one of the mandatory hardware requirements for computers that intend to run Windows 11 will be this type of “trusted platform module” or TPM.
BitLocker in Windows 11
BitLocker can be enabled on the operating system disk drives (the drive where Windows 11 is installed), on a fixed data disk drive (such as an internal hard disk or SSD), or a removable data disk drive (such as a USB flash drive).
Activating BitLocker in Windows 11 is done as follows:
Access the Control Panel from the system search option.
Open BitLocker Drive Encryption.
Under Operating system disk drive, expand the information for the disk drive, and then tap or click Turn on BitLocker.
For the example, we activate it on a USB Pendrive.
You may be asked to provide an administrator password or confirm your choice.
The BitLocker Disk Drive Encryption wizard may take a few moments to prepare your computer. Follow the prompts until the Select how to unlock the disk drive at the startup screen.
Choose how to lock the disk drive, then follow the instructions until you want to back up the recovery key? Screen appears.
Choose how to back up the recovery key, then tap or click Next.
You may want to print a copy of the security key to saving it.
Choose which disk drive volume you want to encrypt, then tap or click Next.
Select the encryption mode to use. BitLocker in Windows 11 can take advantage of the new XTS-AES encryption mode introduced in Windows 10 updates, but if you are encrypting an external or removable drive, select the supported mode to open the drive on computers with earlier versions of Windows.
Running the system check is one way to make sure BitLocker works appropriately, but it will take longer, and you will have to restart your computer. If you choose to run the system check, ensure you’ve saved what you’ve been doing before resuming. Upon restart, the computer will ask you to unlock the operating system disk drive using the method of your choice.
The tool will act automatically until the creation is finished.
As you may have seen, activating BitLocker in Windows 11 is as simple as in previous versions of the operating system. It is an excellent way to encrypt or “encode” the data on a storage unit using a free, native internal tool. Data theft or exposure in the event of loss, theft, or inappropriate removal of equipment from an IT infrastructure.
Nowadays it is becoming more and more common to use two monitors connected simultaneously to our computer. This makes it possible to perform multiple functions if we tend to work with many open programs or windows since we can distribute the use of these among the tasks to be performed.
However, there are times when Windows can play tricks on us and be able to detect that second monitor while reporting an error. That is why we are going to see how we can solve it.
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Setting up different monitors for use in Windows is a good way to expand our workspace so that we can more comfortably use different applications at the same time. Connecting them to the PC is quite simple, but there are occasions where we can find some problems in this regard.
Why is Windows not detecting an external monitor?
That window cannot detect our second monitor can be frustrating, and we may not know for sure what the reason may be. This is something that can happen especially when we try to connect several of them that are very old, due to bad drivers, with screen resolution or hardware-related problems.
Whatever the reason why the operating system is not able to detect them, it is possible to carry out certain operations that can help us solve the problem. From checking the cabling to updating the graphics card drivers. Sometimes a simple reboot of the system may be enough, other times it will be necessary to make some adjustments in the system configuration or use its error detection tool.
Steps to fix the problem
Next, we go on to detail different actions that we can take to solve the problem, something that we can do from the tools that the operating system makes available to us.
Reboot the system
It is possibly the most basic solution, but in many cases, it can also be the most effective, even when the system is not able to detect them. By restarting, all programs and processes that we are executing and that may interfere and cause the problem is closed. In case it does not work, we can try to turn it off completely, wait a few minutes and turn it on again. To turn off or restart the PC we must click on the Start menu and then click on the “Start / Shutdown” button.
Check that it is not a hardware problem
We must also rule out that, instead of a software problem, we are facing a hardware problem due to the physical connection. If it does not appear in the system configuration, we must confirm that the monitors are connected to a power source and that it is turned on. We must also verify the connection of the cable that connects to the PC graphic and try a different cable to confirm that it is not defective. In addition, we will disconnect all peripherals such as cameras, printers, etc., in order to confirm that none of them are in conflict.
Configure multi-screen options
Although Windows is capable of automatically detecting all the screens connected to the system, we must also activate them manually from the “Settings” section. To do this, we click on the «Activity Center» at the bottom right and click on «Project». Next, we make sure we have selected the “Duplicate” option for our secondary monitor.
In the same way, we can do this same operation by pressing the “Windows + I” shortcut to access the “Configuration”. Later we click on «System» and «Screen». We scroll to the bottom and click on the drop-down menu to select the “Duplicate or Extend” option. If it is already configured in one of these options, we change the configuration to another and then revert the changes.
Force detection
In the event that we do not find any problem in the physical connections that connect the computer with other monitors, we can force their detection from the Windows “Settings” section, because although the connection is made through Plug & Play, it may not always be done automatically.
To do this, we will press the keyboard shortcut “Windows + I”. Once in the «Configuration» menu, click on the «System» section. Now on the left side, we go to «Screen». We scroll to the bottom of the right part until we find the section “Several screens”. Here we click on the “Detect” button.
Check if the resolution is correct
If we’ve plugged in a second, higher resolution monitor and found that Windows isn’t able to display it correctly, it may be because it’s borrowing the settings from the previous screen or trying to match it to the main one.
To check this, we must click with the right button of the mouse on a blank space on our desktop, and in the context menu select “Screen Settings”. This will open the “Settings” section with the panel loaded by default. Then we click on the secondary screen and move to the “Scale and distribution” section. We click on the “Screen resolution” drop-down menu and select the one that best suits our needs. By default, Windows designates one of these resolutions as recommended based on the characteristics of your monitor.
Update or reinstall video drivers
If our computer has damaged or outdated drivers, it may be the cause of the problem. Therefore, it will be necessary for us to proceed to reinstall, uninstall or revert to a previous version of the drivers to resolve the error.
This is something that we must do from the “Device Manager”, which we must access by pressing the keyboard shortcut “Windows + X” and selecting it from the menu that will appear on the left side of the screen.
Update drivers
First we must check if our graphics card appears with an admiration symbol in yellow . If so, it indicates that we are facing a problem with the drivers. Next, right-click on the card and select “Update” from the context menu . Finally, in the new window we indicate that Windows search for the drivers automatically.
Go back to a previous version
The problem may have started to occur after a driver update was performed. If that is our case, we can try to solve it by going back to a previous version of it . To do this, it is necessary to click with the right button of the mouse on our graph and select “Properties”. Later in the “Driver” tab, we must click on the “Revert to the previous driver” button, which will be enabled if we have performed a recent installation. Otherwise it will be disabled.
Uninstall and reinstall the drivers
We can also try to uninstall the drivers of our video card and reinstall them again to see if it solves our problem. To do this, click with the right mouse button on the graphics card and select the “Properties” option. Then we click on the “Driver” tab and click on the “Uninstall the device” option.
Once this is done, we restart the computer and return to Device Manager. Now, we click with the right mouse button on the name of our PC that appears at the top and clicks on «Search for hardware changes». If the system is not able to detect the drivers, we can download them from the manufacturer’s website, either AMD, NVIDIA, or Intel, and install them manually on the computer.
Once installed again, we confirm that everything is correct. To do this, we go back to the “Properties” section of the graph. Next, in the “General” tab, the message This device is working correctly should appear. If so, the problem with the drivers is fixed.
Use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
If the problem persists, we can use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter that is integrated into the operating system. This tool is specialized in problem-solving. Previously, it could be accessed from the “Settings” menu, in the “Update and security” and “Troubleshoot” sections. However, in the most current versions of Windows, it is no longer possible, and it is necessary to access it from the command line.
In this way, just press the keyboard shortcut “Windows + R” and we will launch the “Run” tool. Here we must write the following command and press Enter to confirm the operation.
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msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
This is how we launch the troubleshooter, so you just have to click on Next and follow the steps of the wizard. The tool will be in charge of looking for possible hardware problems and once finished it will notify us of it.
Windows 11 has hit the media landscape like a cyclone. And that has not yet been announced (or even confirmed) by Microsoft, something that we hope will happen next Thursday, June 24, at the event scheduled to talk about “the future of Windows” and that, as a novelty of yesterday, will have a second conference separate from the main one and dedicated to developers.
Nobody escapes that software support will be critical. What began as a mere rumor continued with increasingly precise signals until the first version of this Windows 11 ended up leaking.
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Yes, it seems that Microsoft is willing to hit the table we were asking for and change the course of its system desktop operating. However, it remains to be seen how the ‘revolution’ does while maintaining current support for the vast Windows ecosystem.
So far, Windows 10X will be the starting point. Although it was canceled a few months ago when its premiere was expected to govern the new generation of foldable and entry-level laptops, all development work will be leveraged for the general version of the following desktop Windows.
Since Windows 10 will have official support until October 2025, Microsoft has time to produce the “Windows of the future” that its users want.
Windows 11 wallpaper
The leaked version of Windows 11 first emerged on a forum of Chinese origin. Although it seems legitimate, it cannot be guaranteed that it has not been manipulated (including malware).
It is also preliminary that its installation is not recommended except for the most enthusiastic and only loaded in virtual machines to ensure security. And be careful with downloading the ISO images in the Torrent network because we see some very bad looking … We will test it thoroughly when Microsoft publishes the first preview version.
What we can do now is use some of its components. Microsoft accentuates the visuals, and any major renovation has to ‘enter through the eye. We see it in the new start menu that floats over the taskbar and that by default is centered in the middle of the screen (does it sound like the macOS dock?) Or in the Windows 11 wallpapers that we can install in Windows previous (or other platforms).
The collection looks great, both the two backgrounds that will be seen by default in the first installation and the other four groups of images that accompany it:
Default wallpaper for system light and dark modes.
The ‘Captured Motion’ collection shows a still frame in different ways while in motion.
The ‘Flow’ wallpaper collection shows a flow of thin shapes in different shapes and colors.
The ‘Glow’ collection consists of four wallpapers that show a circular object that shines in different colors.
The ‘Sunrise‘ collection is a set of four wallpapers showing the sunrise over various scenic landscapes.
The installation of any of them is straightforward. The guys at ChangeWindows have made it easy for us, compiling all these high-resolution images in a compressed. ZIP file. They can be downloaded from this OneDrive link, and once on our PC, using them is as easy as selecting them:
Right-click anywhere on the desktop.
Select ‘Customize.’
In ‘Background’ select ‘Image’ and ‘Browse’.
Find the path of the image you just downloaded and want to use. Apply, and you will see the desired image.
Entirely cool these Windows 11 wallpapers that confirm the renewal of the visual section that Microsoft is looking for. We do not rule out much more in the final version of the system for which we do not know the release date. Windows 10 has years of support left. We will know more at the event on the 24th. Don’t miss it!
FAT32 is a file system that came as an improvement on FAT16 and the old FAT created for MS-DOS. Although other more advanced ones are natively supported by Windows (exFAT and NTFS ), it is still one of the most used.
FAT32 has certain limitations since it cannot store files of more than 4 Gbytes, and it does not allow the creation of partitions of more than 8 Tbytes. It is also problematic when using many levels of subfolders and lacks certain security-level features found in more modern file systems. That is why it is recommended to use others such as NTFS in operating system installations.
However, its simplicity, versatility, and compatibility with other operating systems (Linux, macOS, Android, or other alternatives such as FreeBSD) make it especially suitable for external/removable storage drives such as USB sticks or microSD memory cards.
FAT32 on Windows
The problem is that the standard tool present in Windows 10 or Windows 11 to format disks (the function that we can find in the file explorer when right-clicking on a connected drive) does not allow using this file system. If you try, you will only see the option of exFAT or NTFS. In addition, previous systems that did offer it did not allow to format drives with storage capacity superior to 32 Gbytes.
I tinker a lot with all types of equipment, and I cannot miss a USB stick or a microSD with this type of file system, the most compatible and suitable for use on devices that do not support others or work worse. I am thinking of testing software, working with the Raspberry, or updating the TV box firmware, to name a few examples. If this is your case and you ever find that you need to use FAT32, there are methods to overcome the situation.
Third-party tools
One of those available is FAT32 Format. A free and portable application that does not need installation and facilitates the task of formatting drives with these types of files. : download (Start button on the link), run, select the drive, activate formatting (it has a quick format option), and start.
Powershell
Applications like the previous ones are recommended for ease of use and speed of execution. Still, if you want to use Windows itself, another method overcomes the limitation of the standard formatting tool. Access the advanced Windows Powershell console and use the command ” format / FS: FAT32 X:” where “X” is the drive we want to format:
The consoles will take much longer to perform the formatting and are more complicated to handle, so we recommend using the FAT32 Format application. In both cases, remember that the handling of individual files in FAT 32 is 4 Gbytes. The theoretical limit of the drive capacity with this type of file system is 16 TB, more than enough for the entire base of devices on the market.
exFAT: better, but less compatible
exFAT was introduced in 2006 and raised in Windows XP and Vista. As its name indicates, it is related to the FAT file system. It is specifically an evolution of this that tries to eliminate the limitations that FAT32 presented, although without introducing many of the improvements present in NTFS.
The main advantage of exFAT compared to its predecessor is that it eliminates storage limitations, can create larger partitions and allows storing files of more than 4 Gbytes without losing one of the outstanding characteristics of FAT, the reading speed and writing.
Like FAT32, exFAT is ideal for pen and external drives in general, with special mention to devices with more than 16 Gbytes of capacity. However, FAT32 offers more and better compatibility with a broader range of systems. Therefore that exFAT is relegated to specific contexts.
I want to start from a base and clarify: I do not equip Deckboard with Elgato Stream Deck. Although the function of both solutions is the same, there are specific differences that should be clear.
We say this because I have a relationship with some streamers who are Stream Deck users. Although they know solutions like Deckboard, their preference for Elgato’s device far exceeds the advantages offered by this alternative.
However, there are content creators who, due to the circumstances, cannot afford to purchase a Stream Deck, and it is in those cases the solution proposed by Deckboard becomes a great option. Why? Based on Windows / Linux and Android software, this solution is entirely free(although it is possible to buy an advanced version of the mobile app).
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If you do not know Stream Deck, you should know that it is a device with several programmable buttons that connects to the PC, in which all kinds of actions can be configured through software. It is a widespread tool among streamers, who use it for quick scene changes, live settings adjustments, etc.
This practical system avoids having to walk, during life, accessing the broadcast software (generally OBS or SLOBS), which could interrupt the rhythm of the transmission. And this is just an example, and it has been used in multiple contexts (on more than one occasion, for example, I have thought how practical it would be for me to edit video).
Deck Board proposes to convert an Android smartphone into a keypad, which we will link with the software that runs on the PC. And it is in the software; we will define the function of the buttons displayed on the mobile screen.
In addition, and since it is possible to create groups of controls, it is possible to have a set of shortcuts associated with different activities, for example, a group for work, another for video editing, a third for when you are playing (We have to test it with a Microsoft Flight Simulator), etc.
How does Deckboard work?
First, you will have to download the application for your PC’s operating system. In this case, we will be based on Windows, but remember that it is also available for Linux, as we have told you before. You can download it from its website and install it by following the steps indicated by the wizard. When finished, open it so that its main interface is shown:
As you may have already deduced, each of the squares shown in the central area represents the buttons you can configure in Deckboard. When you place the mouse pointer over one of them, a + sign will be displayed and, if you click, you will access the window from which you are going to configure the button:
By default, although you can change it, you are offered to configure a macro, that is, a simultaneous press of several keys on the keyboard. For this example, I have created a button that reproduces the simultaneous pressing of Shift + Windows + S, which is the configuration in Windows to take a screenshot. You can use the elements on the left to customize the appearance of the button:
When you have configured it to your liking, you will only have to click on Save, and the button will be added to the board.
In this way, a new window will open in which you can configure everything that should happen when that button is pressed. Click on the list of actions and explore its content. As you can see, there are already many preconfigured options that you can add:
To configure the panic button in Deckboard, you can directly use the Twitch options. However, for this purpose, it is necessary that you log into the service from the app (you can do it from the configuration) or that you use the OBS or SLOBS functions. An example of actions for this button would be the following:
Once you have finished adding all the necessary options, you can return to the button’s configuration window to give it the style you want, and it could be, for example, something like this:
When you have already added all the buttons you want, it is time to switch to mobile. Remember, as we have already indicated at the beginning, that the app is available for Android. At least for the moment, there is no version for iOS. To download it, you can use this link.
Once downloaded and installed, open it so that its main interface is displayed:
With the app open, return to the PC and, in the Deckboard window, click, in the upper right corner, on the WiFi icon, so that a box like this opens:
IF there are several connections, make sure you have chosen the one for the WiFi network. In this example, you can see that a virtual network created by VirtualBox is also shown. You must select the same network to which the smartphone is connected. Otherwise, the connection will not be established.
With that message open, go back to the smartphone, click the Scan button, authorize the use of the camera and scan the QR code of the message from the PC. Thus, after a few seconds, you will be able to see and use the Deckboard buttons from the phone:
Microsoft released the first Windows 11 ISO last week, although there were already other alternative ways to get it, as we saw in the Windows 11 Installation Guide. It is another step that brings us closer to the launch of the final version that we expect by the end of the year.
If you are unfamiliar with this type of “image,” you should know that it is a sector-by-sector copy of the official OS installation/maintenance DVD, created as a disk image file that can be downloaded, stored, and transported.
You will find this type of image on the Internet as a single file with a .iso extension (the most used format, although there are others) and for any software, operating systems and applications, games, or other multimedia content.
In the case of operating systems, they are handy and allow several uses that we will review at the end focused on the new Windows 11. We have to warn that the version is still under development, in a preliminary phase (beta), and should only be used for tests discarding for the moment teams dedicated to production since its total stability is not guaranteed.
How to download the Windows 11 ISO
Official Website
Microsoft does not offer these images to the general public but reserves them for the Insider trial program subscribers. You only need a Microsoft ID account. We see the step by steps to obtain it:
If the page does not authenticate, identify yourself with your Microsoft ID account.
Select the version of the Insider Preview to build 22000.132. (We recommend the beta version, somewhat more stable than the development channel)
Select the language.
Download the resulting file “Windows11_InsiderPreview_Client_x64_es-en_22000.iso”.
Alternative 1
uupdump.net is a third-party site that offers a script to download the necessary files and convert them to a Windows 11 ISO. It is what we have been using before Microsoft officially provided the images. The files with which the ISO is created are official from Microsoft. As follows:
Navigate to uupdump.net. The page offers versions in various channels to download, development (more advanced in the timeline), or beta (somewhat more stable) less stable) on multiple architectures.
Below you will see the latest builds added. Select “Windows 11 Insider Preview 10.0.22000.160 (co_release) amd64”.
3. Click on it to select the Spanish language and the edition you prefer (Home or Pro).
4. Select the download option: «Download and convert to ISO» to obtain a compressed ZIP file that will be used to get the image.
5. Unzip the file to a folder on your disk.
6. Go to the folder and double-click on the “uup_download_windows.cmd” file.
7. When you run the file, you’ll see a command prompt window open and a batch file run, downloading all the necessary files from Microsoft and doing a packaging that will create the Windows 11 ISO file.
Once Microsoft has started offering official images, the previous method is faster and easier than this one, but there you have it in case the other one fails you or if you don’t have a Microsoft ID account because this method works for any user.
Alternative 2
Microsoft also offers these files in other professional portals such as TechBench or the TechNet evaluation center, but you have to be subscribed to them. A developer has a great little app that we’ve been using for years to download images (both Windows and Office). The photos are official, the same ones offered by Microsoft, and are accessed as follows.
Access the Heidoc.net page and download the “Windows ISO Downloader.exe” application. It is portable, and it does not need installation.
There you will have access to Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and 11. Also, to the Office suite from version 2007 onwards and the versions for Mac.
Only the Windows 11 SDK is available, but it will inevitably be updated with the available images. Ideal for getting older Windows or Office images.
Windows 11 ISO uses
Clean facilities
Performing installations “from scratch” of the operating system is one of the primary uses. Before doing so, we will have to burn the disc image on a DVD (better on a USB stick) in a process known as “burning.” If you follow us, you should know it by heart. We review it:
We use our favorite application, Rufus, which is free and works perfectly primarily with Windows images.
Download and install. (You can also use the portable version)
Insert the medium that you will use in the recording. You can use a DVD, but we recommend a pen drive or
USB disk, faster and safer. Its minimum capacity must be 8 Gbytes.
Run Rufus. You will see a straightforward interface in which you will first have to select the Windows image downloaded in the previous steps by selecting the “Boot choice.”
It only remains to configure the rest of the options. GPT as “partition scheme,” target system “UEFI (not CSM), and NTFS or FAT32 as a file system. Click on start to get the installation media.
Upgrades
Another use of the media that we have created from the Windows 11 ISO is to perform updates from Windows 10, just as it is done from Windows Update. If you do, keep in mind that you will have to link the license to the new operating system and use a Microsoft ID account because, at the moment, it is only officially available to Insiders testers. If you try Windows 11 and don’t like it, or you want something more stable until the final version is released, you have ten days to go back to Windows 10 in a process carried out from the Configuration tool.
Third teams
The Windows 11 ISO or the created media can also be used on other computers, either for “clean” installations from scratch or to perform updates from Windows 10. The process is the same as if we do it on our computer.
Maintenance
The medium (we recommend creating it on a pen drive or USB disk rather than on a DVD) is used for installations/updates and system maintenance. These means are ideal for problem-solving, removal of malware, firmware update, the uninstallation of problematic drivers, applications, system updates, and in general scenarios where the system does not work or does not start correctly. The options are similar to the recovery functions within the system.
Virtual machines
Virtualization is a fast, comfortable, and safe method for executing software. It is especially indicated for testing unstable systems or applications such as Windows 11 since it does not affect the installed operating system that you use on a day-to-day basis and, in addition, it does not It is limited to Windows and offers the ability to test Windows 11 from a Linux or macOS machine.
Also, the media creation step is not required, and the downloaded Windows 11 ISO is used directly, loading it into some of the available commercial or free virtualization solutions.
Carrying a secure operating system in your pocket is possible thanks to developments such as Tails and USB formats in “Live” and self-starting format that we can use for multiple tasks and on all types of equipment.
It is an excellent option since its operation is independent of the operating system that the PC has. We connect it, Windows, macOS, or Linux, running directly from the external medium without installing anything on the internal storage unit and thus without affecting the system main installed. And another advantage. Considering the extensive adoption of a port such as USB, its potential use includes tens of millions of computers in all types of formats and almost any kind of hardware.
Although other developments can be used, if we talk about security and privacy, there is one that we especially like: Tails—updated this November to version 4.24, an open-source and free GNU / Linux distribution based on the almighty Debian.
In addition to including a package of basic installed applications such as a web browser, email client, office tools, or media players/editors, its strength lies in protecting the online privacy it offers. Its default browser is Tor Browser, and it uses the Tor network by redirecting communications around a distributed network of relays conducted by volunteers from around the world.
All Tails applications are configured to connect through Tor while direct (non-anonymous) connections are blocked. In addition, it includes encryption tools to protect files or documents, emails, or instant messages.
How to create a secure operating system
To create these Live USB or bootable pen drives (which are not the same or have the same objective, although in some cases they serve both uses), we have a good number of tools. Many open-source and free such as the fireproof Rufus or other more specialized WinSetupFromUSB types include multiple operating systems on the same medium.
The basic idea in these cases is the same. Creating a flash storage medium inserted into a USB port allows us to start it when the computer starts up and before the installed operating system starts up. Or in machines that do not have any system installed. The Tails developers recommend using Etcher, available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, and we did this practical with it.
We use a PC with Windows 10 (you can also do it from Linux or macOS) and a USB 3.2 Pendrive, although it may be lower, such as USB 2.0. Remember, a higher interface will give you better performance (necessary for running an operating system). In comparison, a lower interface usually offers compatibility with a more significant number of computers and fewer potential errors.
Use any of them, and it will have to have at least 8 Gbytes of capacity. Save the data it contains because it will be erased when creating the medium with Tails, and we start:
Download the latest version of Tails—for example, the USB image for Windows “tails-amd64-4.24.img” with a size of 1.2 GB. You can use direct download or torrent.
Download the latest version of Etcher (v.1.7.0) for Windows and install the tool.
Follow the instructions, selecting the downloaded Tails image and the Pendrive you use.
And a little more. With a fast unit in a few minutes, you will have it ready.
Using Tails
Perhaps the most challenging thing for an ordinary user is to get his PC to start on the USB stick with Tails that we have just created. All computers have special keys programmed to access UEFI / BIOS or the computer’s internal boot menu. They are activated by pressing the corresponding key during the hardware testing phase when we start the personal computer.
Manufacturers do not make it easy because each uses different keys. Of course, they tend to be repeated on all brand computers, and in most cases, they use the “Function,” “Escape,” or “Delete” keys. If you work in Windows on any computer, you can access the USB by restarting the computer with the “Shift” key pressed and selecting it from the menu.
Once loaded and like other Linux distributions, you will see the Grub bootloader where you can select Tails or safe mode. We enter the standard mode, select the keyboard/language to use, and the additional configuration of administration password or anonymization of the MAC address. In any case, all these parameters can be configured later.
Enjoy Tails! A development that has all the basics of a Linux distribution, based on the consistently stable Debian, Office office suites, graphics, music, and video applications, and various utilities, as well as installing whatever you want.
Of course, in a distro super-specialized in privacy and anonymity, there is no lack of its tools, encryption to protect files or documents, emails or instant messages, use of the TOR network, and a browser with the DuckDuckGo search engine by default, and a long, etc.
If you want a safe and private operating system, here is one of the best. And transportable anywhere in a pocket, connectable by USB in millions of computers, without having to modify anything in the host system (if you don’t want to) and without leaving a trace once you finish.
At the time of the launch of Chrome 95, although that version was just a little short in terms of ‘constant and sound’ news, those that the user can feel from the first moment, there are no bad times for the Google browser; thanks to the competence.
Or, put another way, these are not bad times for web browsers in general when it comes to innovation intent, even though everything is Chromium and there is no innovation. But it is just the opposite: in appearance, there is innovation and the differences from one browser to another, despite sharing a base, are apparent.
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Thus, behind the push of spearheads such as Microsoft Edge or Vivaldi, Chrome developers have woken up from lethargy. They have not stopped including small practical innovations in a browser that can boast market share for a year now. Still, in a matter of characteristics, it had lagged.
Little by little, however, Chrome has begun to brighten up its interface and options. Thus essential functions have arrived, such as a menu from which to search between the open tabs or retrieve the newly closed ones, the groups of tabs, the reading list, RSS support, and more, including some to come.
The bookmarks side panel in Chrome
Today we are talking about the Chrome side panel, a feature that you can find in browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Opera, or Vivaldi and that Google was reluctant to implement in Chrome due to more comfort and utility that it provides to more advanced users … and not everything The world likes to waste vertical space on marker bars.
Indeed, the new side panel of Chrome is reduced for the moment to the display of bookmarks and the reading list. Later on, the user may be offered to extend its functionality, with or without extensions, to customize the application’s usability. That’s what it’s about. We will have to see it because, at the moment, the function is still in test mode.
But it is already available in the stable version of the browser, so it can now be activated without complications, as we usually do with many other functions that take time to spread to the general public. It is not clear if Google will enable the side panel in Chrome 96 or later, but you would like to try it now if you are a heavy user.
As always, to activate the new Chrome side panel, you have to go to the advanced preferences of the browser, which remain hidden in the internal URL:
chrome://flags/
Once there, filter the term “side panel” (without the quotes), and you will see a couple of options: ” Side panel ” and ” Side Panel drag and drop ” that you must activate in the drop-down menu (“Enabled”). You restart the browser.
This is the new Chrome bookmarks side panel.
Have you noticed the new button next to the user profile icon on the toolbar? From there, you can show and hide the new side panel of bookmarks and reading list, whose operation is elementary like a jug. Thanks to the second option that you activated, you can add bookmarks simply by dragging and dropping, without going through the button with the star.
Cool or not? If your answer is negative, it means that you don’t use bookmarks much, which is a mistake, because they are a way to have at hand not only the sites that we visit the most, but the ones that we visit the least, but it is still important not to forget. And this is just the beginning.
VirtualBox is an application that allows you to create virtual machines to run complete operating systems. The most recent released by Microsoft, Windows 11, does not allow it to be used in a virtual machine officially. However, there is a way to install Windows 11 on VirtualBox.
If you have already tried creating a virtual machine and installing Windows 11 in VirtualBox, you may have noticed that an error appears during the process. Specifically, it mentions the following: “This computer does not meet the minimum system requirements to install this version of Windows.” And that’s it. That’s where the installation ends. Or not?
How to install Windows 11 in VirtualBox bypassing the “Does not meet the requirements” error
The first step to installing Windows 11 in VirtualBox is downloading this tool on your computer if you haven’t already done so. You can do it by visiting its official page and using the download link corresponding to your operating system. Once you have VirtualBox, launch it and click the New button that you will see at the top of the screen.
Setting up the virtual machine in VirtualBox.
Choose the machine name, version, and type using the virtual machine creation wizard. We must clarify that we have used the term “Windows 2” because we already had another virtual machine with Windows 11. But you can choose the term that suits you best. Copy the rest of the settings from the following image:
Provide at least 4GB of RAM. However, you can add more memory to your virtual machine if your computer allows it.
Now is the time to create a virtual hard disk. Choose the option Create a virtual hard disk now and press the Create button.
Check the VDI option and continue with Next.
Allot a space of at least 50 GB for your virtual machine. Again, if you can give it more, go ahead.
With your virtual machine created, now insert the Windows 11 CD. Of course, in this case, you will use the ISO that you must obtain from the official Microsoft website. Click on Optical drive, and in the context menu, click on Select a disk file.
Browse using the file explorer until you find the Windows 11 ISO.
Next, click on the Settings button, located next to New and Discard at the top of the options.
Open the System section, click on the Processor tab and assign two CPUs to the virtual machine. Also, check the boxes that you will see next to Extended Features.
Install Windows 11 in VirtualBox step by step
Start the virtual machine and wait for the Windows 11 installer to load. Select your language, time format, and keyboard layout. Then click Next
Use the Install Now button to continue.
Click on I don’t have a product key to skip the Windows 11 activation step.
Choose the edition of Windows that you want to install on your virtual machine.
Finally, the error that we mentioned at the beginning of this article will appear on the screen. Fortunately, all is not lost.
Use the combination Shift + F10 to open the system console. There type Regedit and hit Enter.
The registry editor will appear on the screen. Navigate with the side browser to the following route:
Computer \ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SYSTEM \ Setup
Right-click on the Setup key, open the New menu and click on Key. Name the new key LabConfig. Make sure it is nested within Setup.
Open LabConfig, the new key you have created, and right-click on a space to see the context menu. Select the DWORD Value (32-bit) option.
Create four 32-bit DWORD values named as follows:
BypassTPMCheck
BypassCPUCheck
BypassRAMCheck
BypassSecureBootCheck
Then, access each and set the Value data field to 1. Use the following screenshot as a guide to check that you are carrying out the entire process correctly.
Close the registry and the system console. Then, click on the cross in the installation window. Select OK to confirm that you want to exit the installation in the pop-up dialog.
Again, you will find yourself at the beginning. Use the Install Now button and repeat the steps already mentioned.
Unlike what has happened before, you will jump to the window that shows the Windows 11 contract, which must be accepted instead of the error.
Use the Custom option: install Windows only (advanced) to continue.
Create a new partition and select it to install Windows 11 on it.
Finally, the installation process will start.
Wait for the wizard to finish and the virtual machine to restart. The duration of the installation will depend mainly on the power of your computer. However, Windows 11 will likely terminate before copying all the files necessary to function virtual machines.
After installing Windows 11 in VirtualBox, finish setup
After taking the steps mentioned in the previous section, Windows 11 will be installed in your virtual machine. All you have to do is finish setting up the system by indicating the language keyboard layout and adding your Microsoft account.
Once you finish, you will have a fully functional copy of Windows 11, thanks to VirtualBox. Remember that the process described throughout this guide is compatible with all operating systems. That is, you can have a virtual machine with Windows 11 by following the steps mentioned in Linux, Windows 10, Windows 11 itself, and macOS (as long as it is not on a Mac with an M1 processor).
Once you finish, you will have a fully functional copy of Windows 11, thanks to VirtualBox. Remember that the process described throughout this guide is compatible with all operating systems. That is, you can have a virtual machine with Windows 11 by following the steps mentioned in Linux, Windows 10, Windows 11 itself, and macOS (as long as it is not on a Mac with an M1 processor).
How to install the VirtualBox Guest Additions
VirtualBox Guest Additions is the package of tools provided by VirtualBox to improve the compatibility of the virtual machine with Windows 11. For example, the network drivers or the virtual graphics card are installed. The latter is very important because they allow you to adopt the resolution of the virtualized system to the size of the VirtualBox window. Plus, you’ll gain some features like clipboard integration and support for USB-connected drives. To install them in Windows 11, do the following:
Open the Devices menu.
Click on Insert the Guest Additions CD.
Open the file explorer on your virtual machine and explore the CD drive.
Click on the executable to install the drivers.
When the process is complete, the virtualized copy of Windows 11 will be more compatible with VirtualBox. Although this last step is optional, it is highly recommended due to the large number of functions it adds.
And you, do you think it is practical to have a virtual machine with Windows 11? Are you going to use this trick to test Microsoft’s new operating system, or do you prefer to install it on your disk?
Google News is an excellent way to get the latest personalized news. More often, when you open the Google News app, it automatically refreshes to display newly updated content. However, when you open the Google News app on most Huawei devices, it refreshes for a second and crashes.
If you’re a Huawei user, I found a method to fix this error. It may not be permanent, but it works flawlessly. This method also speeds up your phone.
How to fix Huawei Google News feed crashing error
Fortunately, you can try to fix the problem by entering your phone’s settings and disabling (or at least restricting) system animations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to move forward on Android and iPhone.
Android – Inbox settings on your phone select Phone info from the menu that opens and tap Build number 7 times in a row to unlock developer settings. Then return to the settings menu, choose Development Options, and proceed.
Select the article … Window animation scale and set the value to 0.5x The in Animation off (if you want to turn off the animation completely).
Select the article … Transition from animation to scale and set the value to 0.5x Az in Animation off (if you want to turn off the animation completely).
Select the article … The animator duration scale and set the value to 0.5x Az in Animation off (if you want to turn off the animation completely).
If you use an alternate launcher instead of Android “share,” for example, the excellent Nova Launcher will need to go into your settings and change your animation settings from there.
