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In a move that broadens access to Microsoft’s ubiquitous productivity tools, Microsoft has launched a free, ad-supported version of Office for both Windows and Mac users. This new offering makes popular applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint available without the need for a paid subscription—albeit with some notable trade-offs. In this article, we break down how to download and install Office Free on Windows 11, along with an honest look at its features, limitations, and the broader...

Windows users, take note: a once-popular open source tool for cleaning out Windows 11 bloatware has been unmasked—not as a harmless utility, but as a carrier of malware. If you have used the Talon program to eliminate unwanted pre-installed software, your system may be compromised. In this article, we dive deep into what went wrong, how you can safeguard your devices, and the broader implications for open source software in the Windows ecosystem. What Happened? The Talon Controversy...

Microsoft is refining its approach to Windows 11 24H2 pre-installations by recommending that PC manufacturers ship the update only on systems with newer processors. While this guideline may sound like a constraint, rest assured that if you’re an end user running an older, but still supported, CPU, your update experience remains completely intact. In this article, we dive into the details of the update, explore what it means for manufacturers and users alike, and examine how this move fits...

In today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, one truth stands clear: academic achievement is deeply intertwined with emotional well-being. Microsoft Education’s latest initiative on social-emotional learning (SEL) underscores this fact, offering a suite of digital resources and innovative tools designed to foster an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. As schools adapt to increasingly complex social dynamics, SEL becomes a critical pillar—not only enhancing academic...

In a bold move that underscores Microsoft’s commitment to democratizing advanced AI capabilities, Copilot users can now enjoy free access to OpenAI's Think Deeper and Voice features – without usage limits. This significant update not only removes barriers previously imposed by usage caps but also redefines the way Windows users can interact with AI, whether it’s for complex tasks or simply enjoying a more natural, voice-driven experience. A New Era for Copilot: What’s Changed? Recent...

In a groundbreaking move set to redefine AI assistance on Windows, Microsoft has announced that all Copilot users now have free, unlimited access to two of its most powerful features—Think Deeper and Copilot Voice. These enhancements are set to liberate users from costly subscriptions and open new avenues for productivity and creativity. In this article, we'll provide a detailed examination of these new capabilities, explain how to access them, compare them to competing offerings, and...

Arista Networks is quietly reshaping the digital backbone of modern data centers. Far from traditional hardware-reliant models, the company’s agile software solutions are ushering in a new era of high-performance, scalable networking—one that powers everything from AI-driven workloads to the rapid data transfers demanded by today's cloud services. In this article, we’ll explore how Arista Networks is navigating a fiercely competitive market, the technological innovations driving its success...

Recent developments suggest that Microsoft might be recalibrating its grand AI and cloud computing strategy. In an unexpected move that has rippled across the technology landscape, the tech giant has reduced key data center leases in the United States—a decision that raises critical questions about its future AI computing capacity and overall infrastructure strategy. As previously reported at https://windowsforum.com/threads/353740, these adjustments are stirring up conversations among...

In a bold stride into uncharted quantum territory, Microsoft has recently announced what it calls the first topological qubit—a development that, if confirmed, could pave the way for more error-resistant quantum computers. However, this claim has sparked a lively debate among experts in the field, with many calling for further validation before such a breakthrough is accepted as fact. In this article, we break down the key points of the claim, explore what a topological qubit is, and examine...

Microsoft appears to be sharpening its focus in a rapidly evolving tech landscape by tightening its belt on infrastructure expenditures. Recent industry analysis—citing insights from TD Cowen—indicates the tech giant has canceled data center leases with at least two U.S.-based operators and scaled back its international spending plans. In a move that raises both strategic questions and operational implications, this reallocation of capital is poised to affect Microsoft’s cloud computing, AI...

In a move that signals both experimentation and a fresh business twist, Microsoft has quietly begun testing a free, ad-supported version of its classic Office desktop apps on Windows. As reported by MSPoweruser, the new iteration of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint comes free to use—but not without strings attached. For Windows users and industry observers alike, this modest trial run raises some compelling questions about trade-offs between cost and user experience. What’s New? A Closer Look at...

In the ever-shifting realm of cybersecurity, threat actors continue to refine their methods—and the latest report from KnowBe4’s CyberheistNews Vol 15 #08 reveals a chilling new approach. Russian threat groups, including the notorious SVR’s Cozy Bear, are exploiting a little-known authentication feature to gain unauthorized access to Microsoft 365 accounts. Let’s dive into what’s happening, why Windows users and organizations should care, and how you can safeguard your data. A New Breed of...

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, operational efficiency isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Haire Group, a leading provider of new and used corrugated converting machinery, recently embarked on a transformative journey to modernize their operations by embracing Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales integrated with Microsoft 365, including SharePoint. This in-depth case study not only highlights the power of digital transformation in the manufacturing and industrial sectors but also...

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, staying agile and efficient is paramount. Haire Group’s recent transformation—powered by the integrated capabilities of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales and Microsoft 365—serves as a prime example of how legacy challenges can be overcome through modern technology. By re-engineering their outdated database systems, Haire Group has reaped significant benefits, from streamlined processes to enhanced data accuracy, all while delivering a seamless user...

If you’ve ever hesitated to say goodbye to Windows 10—whether because of familiarity or the fear of a steep learning curve—a new Linux distribution might just be what you need. Free10 (officially part of the XPQ4 series) is a repackaged spin of the Q40S Linux distribution designed to mimic the Windows 10 look and feel. This free, open-source operating system offers an attractive pathway for users ready to explore Linux without abandoning their much-loved Windows user interface. A Familiar...

Microsoft’s latest optional preview cumulative update, KB5052077, is now available for Windows 10 (version 22H2) users. Delivered as build 19045.5555, this update targets a range of issues—from connectivity problems with OpenSSH to improvements in Narrator and the Input Method Editor (IME). Let’s take an in-depth look at what this update brings, its impact on user experience, and why even non-security updates can make a significant difference. What’s New in KB5052077? The KB5052077 update...

With Windows 10 nearing its end-of-life on October 14, 2025, many users are left wondering: What now? If you’re among the millions who have relied on Windows 10 for years, now is the time to start exploring your options for a secure, efficient, and modern computing experience. In this article, we dive into six viable alternatives—from updated Windows releases to open-source and Unix-like systems—that can keep your computer running optimally well beyond Windows 10’s sunset. Why Consider an...

Microsoft’s optional cumulative update KB5052093 for Windows 11 24H2 is now rolling out—and it’s stirring up conversation among Windows enthusiasts. This update, which moves your system to Windows 11 Build 26100.3323, introduces a mix of user interface enhancements and subtle promotional nudges, including an Xbox Game Pass ad within your Settings. Let’s dive into what’s new, how to install the update, and its broader implications for Windows 11 users. Introduction Windows 11 is evolving...

The world of AI-assisted coding is evolving at breakneck speed. In a bid to upend traditional subscription models and transform developer productivity, Google has launched Gemini Code Assist Free—a free-tier AI coding assistant that dramatically outpaces the current offerings from competitors like GitHub Copilot. This new tool is poised to reshape how millions of developers, especially those working within the Windows ecosystem, write and debug code. The Genesis of a Free AI Coding...

Microsoft is once again stirring the tech waters with its latest experimental feature—a new AI search mode for Bing that promises to reshape how we interact with search engines. Touted as a departure from the familiar list of blue hyperlinks, this new interface delivers summarized results, integrated multimedia content, and an altogether refreshed user experience. In this article, we delve into what Microsoft’s test means for search, explore its broader market implications, and discuss how...