Tech Fixes & Troubleshooting

The fastest way to view recently closed apps in Windows 11 is to use the Task View feature. Press Windows key + Tab to open Task View. While it doesn’t directly show a list of closed apps, it provides a timeline of recent activity from which you can infer recently used apps. Alternatively, check the system event logs for application start and stop times. Understanding Windows 11 Application History Windows 11, unlike some older operating systems, lacks a readily accessible, dedicated list of recently closed applications. The OS prioritizes showing currently open windows and recent files. However, similar outcomes can be achieved by leveraging existing system tools and features. Knowing where to look within Windows is key. ...

Understanding Windows 11 Bloatware To debloat Windows 11, begin by uninstalling unnecessary apps via Settings > Apps > Apps & Features. Next, disable startup programs in Task Manager > Startup. Use PowerShell to remove stubborn pre-installed apps like OneDrive. Lastly, adjust privacy settings to minimize data collection and update drivers. Windows 11 comes pre-loaded with apps and services – often called “bloatware” – that many users find unnecessary. These consume system resources, impacting performance, privacy, and the overall user experience. Bloatware examples include: ...

Should You Enable 802.1x Authentication in Windows 11? Yes, enabling IEEE 802.1x authentication in Windows 11 is recommended, especially within managed network environments like businesses or educational institutions. This enhances network security by authenticating users and devices before granting access, preventing unauthorized connections and mitigating risks. For home networks, it’s generally not necessary unless you require enhanced security. I recently set up 802.1x across a small business network. While the setup was challenging, the added security provides peace of mind. This guide will walk you through the process. ...

Loading an ICC profile in Windows 11 involves navigating to Color Management. Search for ‘Color Management’ in the Start Menu, select your display, and check ‘Use my settings for this device.’ Then, click ‘Add,’ browse for your ICC profile (.icc or .icm file), and select it. Finally, set the profile as the default. Loading ICC Profiles in Windows 11: A Detailed Guide This guide will walk you through loading an ICC profile (International Color Consortium profile) in Windows 11. Accurate color management is vital for tasks like photo editing, graphic design, and video production. An incorrectly loaded or missing ICC profile can lead to color casts and inaccurate hues. I’ve tested these steps extensively, most recently on a Windows 11 Build 22621 machine with an AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT. ...

Check WiFi Strength on Windows 11: Expert Guide To quickly check your WiFi signal strength on Windows 11, hover your mouse over the WiFi icon in the system tray. A pop-up will display the network name and signal strength, represented by bars. Alternatively, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi and look for the signal strength indicator next to your connected network. Understanding WiFi Signal Strength in Windows 11 WiFi signal strength is a critical factor affecting your internet speed and overall network performance. A strong signal ensures a stable and fast connection, while a weak signal can lead to slow loading times, dropped connections, and frustrating interruptions. Windows 11 provides several ways to monitor and understand your WiFi signal strength, each offering varying levels of detail. ...

Understanding Windows 11 Licensing The cheapest way to get Windows 11 is typically by purchasing a refurbished PC with a valid license already. These computers often include a pre-installed, activated copy of Windows 11, significantly reducing costs. Students, educators, and non-profits may qualify for discounts. Be cautious of too-good-to-be-true offers, as they may be illegitimate. Understanding Windows 11 Licensing Before diving into specific strategies, it’s crucial to understand how Windows 11 licensing works. Microsoft offers various license types, each with different costs and use cases. Understanding this will help you avoid scams and make informed decisions. ...

Creating a Bootable Windows 11 USB Drive Repairing Windows 11 from a USB drive involves booting from the USB, accessing the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), and utilizing tools like Startup Repair, System Restore, Command Prompt (for SFC or DISM), or even performing a clean install. Ensure the USB drive is bootable and contains the Windows 11 installation files for a successful repair. Before you can repair Windows 11, you need a bootable USB drive containing the Windows 11 installation files. I found the Microsoft Media Creation Tool to be the most reliable method. ...

Troubleshooting Steps to Move Mouse Between Two Monitors Moving your mouse between two monitors in Windows 11 should be effortless. If you’re facing issues, ensure your displays are correctly configured in ‘Display settings’. Go to ‘Settings > System > Display’, verify the monitor arrangement matches your physical setup, and confirm ‘Extend these displays’ is selected. I’ve been setting up multi-monitor configurations for years, and occasionally, even I run into the “stuck mouse” problem. It’s a surprisingly common annoyance. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the troubleshooting steps I personally use to resolve these issues on Windows 11, based on my experience configuring and fixing such setups. I recently upgraded my own workstation to Windows 11 Pro (Build 22621.2428) and immediately encountered this issue, prompting me to refresh my troubleshooting techniques. ...

Installing Windows 11 on Steam Deck: A Comprehensive Guide Want to install Windows 11 on your Steam Deck? You’ll need a USB-C hub, a bootable Windows 11 USB drive, and the correct Steam Deck Windows drivers. First, create the bootable drive using the Media Creation Tool. Then, boot from the USB, install Windows on your desired partition, and install necessary drivers from Valve’s website. Don’t forget to disable secure boot in the Steam Deck’s BIOS. ...

Formatting an SSD in Windows 11 can be accomplished through Disk Management or Command Prompt. For a simple reformat, Quick Format usually suffices, but for suspected errors, uncheck it to perform a full format. Methods to Format an SSD in Windows 11 There are two primary methods for formatting an SSD in Windows 11: using the Disk Management tool, a graphical interface, and using the Command Prompt, which provides more advanced options. I personally prefer Disk Management for quick and simple formatting tasks, but I find the Command Prompt invaluable for more complex scenarios or when dealing with disk errors. ...