Mastering Task Manager in Windows 11: Performance and Productivity
Task Manager is an essential tool for diagnosing system performance issues and gaining insights into the apps running on your computer. This tool presents a comprehensive overview of the processes, components, and applications on your machine, allowing you to identify bottlenecks and optimize performance. By mastering Task Manager, users can troubleshoot common problems, manage resources efficiently, and unlock the full potential of their Windows 11 laptop or desktop.
The ability to effectively use Task Manager will have a direct impact on user productivity, as it enables individuals to quickly identify resource-intensive programs and close them to free up system memory and CPU cycles.
How can users balance performance optimization with security considerations, such as protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access to system resources?
Windows 11 is getting a change to avoid confusion around different reports of CPU usage levels in Task Manager. This is just in testing, but should be rolling out to Windows 11 24H2 and 23H2 soon. A lock screen feature to give Windows 11 users the ability to pick and choose widgets is also inbound. Windows 11 has a new preview release which tinkers with Task Manager to make sure it correctly shows consistent figures for the breakdown of processor usage across its various menus.
The consistent reporting of CPU usage in Task Manager may signal a broader trend towards greater transparency and standardization in Windows, potentially setting a precedent for future updates.
How will this change impact the overall user experience of Windows 11, particularly for power users who rely on accurate system resource monitoring?
Microsoft's recent update to Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 has improved the accuracy of CPU utilization readings displayed in the Task Manager. The updated feature now uses standard metrics to display CPU workload consistently across all pages, aligning with industry standards and third-party tools. This change addresses the previous inaccuracy caused by basing computations on the base clock rather than actual or boost frequencies.
The push for more accurate CPU utilization readings is a prime example of how small updates can trickle down from enthusiast communities to mainstream users, highlighting the importance of feedback loops in the software development process.
What role will this increased accuracy play in the broader context of PC performance optimization, and how might it impact the adoption of overclocking techniques among users?
Microsoft has redeveloped its AI-powered Copilot app from scratch to provide a better user experience that is fully integrated into the Windows 11 operating system. With the new version, users can expect faster response times and more personalized answers, making it easier to use the app's features such as picture-in-picture mode and taskbar integration. The redesign also reduces memory usage, requiring only 50-100 MB of RAM on average.
The native integration of Copilot into Windows 11 may set a new standard for AI-powered productivity tools, but how will this impact the broader software ecosystem and drive innovation in the industry?
Will Microsoft's renewed focus on Copilot lead to increased competition from other AI-powered apps, or will it further consolidate market share?
Windows services operate behind the scenes and are crucial for the functionality of the operating system, although many users remain unaware of their purpose or management. Users can create, start, and stop services using tools like Daemon Master, which allows any executable program to run as a service automatically on startup. Proper management of these services is essential, as deactivating critical system services can lead to malfunctions and instability within Windows.
Understanding and manipulating Windows services can empower users to optimize their system's efficiency and troubleshoot issues more effectively, highlighting the importance of technical knowledge in everyday computing.
What are the potential risks and benefits of allowing everyday users to modify system services without extensive training?
Microsoft Project Pro is a game-changer for individuals and teams working on complex projects, offering a lifetime license at an unbeatable price of $14.97, down from its regular value of $249. This software enables users to plan and execute tasks with ease, providing pre-built templates, automatic timeline generation, and built-in reports to keep projects organized and on track. By leveraging Project Pro's features, individuals can streamline their workflow, collaborate effectively, and deliver high-quality results.
The widespread adoption of project management tools like Microsoft Project Pro may be a reflection of the increasing complexity and interconnectedness of modern work environments, where effective collaboration and task management are crucial for success.
As more professionals and organizations adopt project management best practices, what role will AI-powered tools and automation play in streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity?
The Dell Display and Peripheral Manager (DDPM) is a game-changing tool that streamlines the management and customisation of Dell displays, docks, and peripherals. It aims to boost productivity with features like AI-powered webcam framing, multi-tasking display tools, and collaboration controls. The tool also offers advanced control and flexibility for IT teams, with features like remote management, streamlined firmware updates, and fleetwide configuration.
This all-in-one device management tool has the potential to revolutionise workspace efficiency and device management in businesses, allowing them to increase their ROI on device management.
How will Dell's DDPM be received by the wider IT industry, particularly among competitors who may be working on similar solutions?
Microsoft is testing new features for Windows 11 that include app recommendations in the Start menu and suggested files in File Explorer, aimed at enhancing user experience. The Start menu will now suggest apps typically used together, while File Explorer will display relevant files based on user activity, although these changes will not be available in the European Economic Area for now. While some users may find these recommendations helpful, others may view them as unnecessary clutter in the interface.
This initiative reflects Microsoft's ongoing commitment to improving user experience in Windows 11, indicating a potential shift towards more personalized interactions within the operating system.
How will user feedback on these new features influence Microsoft's future updates and the overall design of Windows 11?
The Botspot Virtual Machine (BVM) enables users to install Windows 11 on a Raspberry Pi 5 with a simplified installation process, including both terminal commands and a GUI option. While the performance may not match that of running Windows 11 directly on hardware, it provides adequate functionality for older games and basic applications. Users can also take advantage of USB passthrough and file sharing between the host OS and the Windows 11 VM for enhanced usability.
This development reflects the increasing versatility of Raspberry Pi devices, showcasing their potential beyond simple coding projects to more complex operating system functions.
What implications does this capability of running a full Windows environment on a Raspberry Pi have for the future of low-cost computing solutions?
While Microsoft's efforts seem to be paying off, the company's pushy approach to getting users to switch to Windows 11 has sparked debate among tech enthusiasts. On one hand, it appears that the company is successfully winning over users from Windows 10. On the other hand, some critics argue that Microsoft is being overly aggressive in its marketing efforts.
The ongoing competition between Microsoft and rival operating systems like Chrome OS highlights the evolving landscape of personal computing, where flexibility and customization are increasingly important to users.
Will Microsoft's continued emphasis on cloud-based security features, such as Smart App Control, ultimately lead to a shift away from traditional software licensing models in the PC industry?
Copilot is a highly anticipated AI-powered personal assistant that now has an improved user interface on Windows 11. The new app features a side panel, keyboard shortcuts, and a redesigned look that aims to make it more intuitive and user-friendly. Microsoft's revamped Copilot app for Windows finally matches the design of its macOS counterpart, providing a more seamless experience for users.
This redesign signifies a significant step forward in integrating AI-powered assistants into mainstream computing, where usability is key to unlocking their full potential.
How will the incorporation of AI-powered tools like Copilot impact the way we interact with technology in our daily lives and work environments?
For businesses navigating the rapidly changing technological landscape, choosing the right operating system is a crucial decision that impacts productivity, security, and cost. While Windows 11 remains a dominant presence in the corporate world, Linux has emerged as a strong alternative, offering flexibility, open-source advantages, and a robust environment tailored to specific business needs. This article comprehensively compares Windows 11 and Linux for business use, examining key factors such as software compatibility, security features, hardware requirements, cost considerations, and ease of use.
The choice between Windows 11 and Linux for business ultimately depends on a company's willingness to invest in training employees to adapt to new operating systems and navigate the nuances of open-source software.
As the technology landscape continues to evolve, how will businesses address the growing need for hybrid IT environments that seamlessly integrate both cloud-based and on-premise solutions?
Microsoft has updated its support document for Windows 11 24H2 to include a broader range of compatible Intel processors, including several 8th, 9th, and 10th-generation models that were previously excluded. This update allows original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) building new Windows 11 devices to use these older processors, as long as their motherboards meet the required TPM 2.0 specification. The company's decision to expand support for these older CPUs may help alleviate compatibility issues for OEMs, but it also leaves individual users and custom PC builders with limited options.
As the pace of technological change accelerates, companies like Microsoft are increasingly forced to navigate the fine line between supporting legacy systems and pushing for innovation through new hardware standards.
What implications will this shift in support policies have on the wider ecosystem of Windows 11 developers, from software vendors to individual users?
Microsoft's AI assistant Copilot will no longer provide guidance on how to activate pirated versions of Windows 11. The update aims to curb digital piracy by ensuring users are aware that it is both illegal and against Microsoft's user agreement. As a result, if asked about pirating software, Copilot now responds that it cannot assist with such actions.
This move highlights the evolving relationship between technology companies and piracy, where AI-powered tools must be reined in to prevent exploitation.
Will this update lead to increased scrutiny on other tech giants' AI policies, forcing them to reassess their approaches to combating digital piracy?
Microsoft has confirmed that its Windows drivers and software are being exploited by hackers through zero-day attacks, allowing them to escalate privileges and potentially drop ransomware on affected machines. The company patched five flaws in a kernel-level driver for Paragon Partition Manager, which were apparently found in BioNTdrv.sys, a piece of software used by the partition manager. Users are urged to apply updates as soon as possible to secure their systems.
This vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping software and drivers up-to-date, as outdated components can provide entry points for attackers.
What measures can individuals take to protect themselves from such attacks, and how can organizations ensure that their defenses against ransomware are robust?
The release of Intel's Arrow Lake platform for business laptops marks a significant shift towards more efficient mobile workstation designs, addressing the frustrations of customers who had to wait two years for updates. The new CPUs are poised to deliver improved performance and power efficiency, allowing businesses to upgrade their existing fleets without compromising on capabilities. With the introduction of special vPro versions with enhanced management and security features, Intel is targeting large corporate customers.
As mobile workstations become increasingly essential for professionals, the timely adoption of these new CPUs will be a significant factor in determining which companies can maintain competitiveness in an evolving industry landscape.
What implications might this shift towards more efficient mobile workstations have on the role of traditional PC manufacturers versus specialized workstation vendors?
Microsoft has implemented a patch to its Windows Copilot, preventing the AI assistant from inadvertently facilitating the activation of unlicensed copies of its operating system. The update addresses previous concerns that Copilot was recommending third-party tools and methods to bypass Microsoft's licensing system, reinforcing the importance of using legitimate software. While this move showcases Microsoft's commitment to refining its AI capabilities, unauthorized activation methods for Windows 11 remain available online, albeit no longer promoted by Copilot.
This update highlights the ongoing challenges technology companies face in balancing innovation with the need to protect their intellectual property and combat piracy in an increasingly digital landscape.
What further measures could Microsoft take to ensure that its AI tools promote legal compliance while still providing effective support to users?
Windows 11 offers a built-in tool for mirroring your Samsung phone's screen, enabling users to access apps on a larger display without additional downloads. While the feature is integrated into the Phone Link app, it is limited to specific Android devices, primarily recent Samsung Galaxy models, though support is gradually expanding to include more brands. This functionality enhances user experience, particularly for tasks like gaming and photo editing, by allowing the use of a mouse and keyboard.
This development highlights the increasing integration of mobile and desktop ecosystems, providing users with seamless multitasking capabilities that were previously reserved for Apple products.
As more brands gain compatibility, how might this shift the competitive landscape between Android and iOS in terms of user experience and functionality?
HackerPulse is developing dashboards that aggregate data from various engineering tools to help enterprises identify productivity bottlenecks and optimize their engineering teams. The platform aims to provide visibility into how engineers spend their time, allowing managers to address inefficiencies and improve team performance. HackerPulse's tool integrates with popular developer tools like GitHub and GitLab, providing a comprehensive view of an engineering team's activities.
By leveraging this aggregated data, organizations can potentially uncover hidden inefficiencies in their engineering teams, leading to significant cost savings and improved product quality.
How will the widespread adoption of such tools impact the role of human managers in the software development process, and what skills will they need to develop to remain relevant?
Lenovo has updated its ThinkPad series with a new line of laptops powered by more powerful processor options, which are expected to improve performance and productivity for users. The update aims to provide users with faster processing speeds, allowing them to multitask efficiently and run demanding applications without significant slowdowns. Lenovo also continues to focus on reliability and durability in its ThinkPad lineup, prioritizing long battery life and robust build quality.
This refresh highlights the ongoing trend of processor upgrades in the laptop market, where manufacturers are continually pushing the boundaries of performance and efficiency.
What implications will this increased emphasis on processing power have for users who rely on laptops as their primary computing device, particularly in fields such as software development and data analysis?
Microsoft has expanded its Copilot AI to Mac users, making the tool free for those with the right system. To run it, a user will need a Mac with an M1 chip or higher, effectively excluding Intel-based Macs from access. The Mac app works similarly to its counterparts on other platforms, allowing users to type or speak their requests and receive responses.
This expansion of Copilot's reach underscores the increasing importance of AI-powered tools in everyday computing, particularly among creatives and professionals who require high-quality content generation.
Will this move lead to a new era of productivity and efficiency in various industries, where humans and machines collaborate to produce innovative output?
Windows 11 Pro is offering a limited-time discount of $14.97 until March 30, allowing gamers to upgrade their performance and enjoy faster load times, enhanced visuals, and smoother gameplay. The operating system's DirectStorage feature reduces loading times by sending game data directly to the GPU, while Auto HDR enhances graphics with sharper, more vivid images. DirectX 12 Ultimate enables ray tracing and advanced rendering for a next-gen gaming experience.
This deeply discounted upgrade could be a major turning point for PC gamers who have been holding back due to outdated hardware or slow performance.
Will Microsoft continue to offer such significant discounts on its operating system in the future, potentially democratizing access to high-performance computing for more gamers?
An analysis conducted on various popular web browsers, including Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, reveals that many of them consume significant amounts of RAM, posing challenges for users with low-RAM systems. Despite its popularity, Chrome does not lead in efficiency, with alternatives like Whale and Yandex showing better performance in terms of memory usage. The findings emphasize the importance of browser choice for users operating on budget laptops with limited RAM resources.
This investigation highlights the critical role of software optimization in enhancing user experience, particularly for those relying on budget hardware that cannot accommodate high memory demands.
What factors influence users' choices when selecting a web browser, particularly when performance and resource consumption are at stake?
The two latest patches for Windows 11 24H2 are causing some users problems, allegedly due to Intel's latest microcode update. Some users of Windows 11 24H2 have been experiencing game crashes and slowdowns, with the problem appearing exclusive to the latest updates. The user experience has been less than ideal since the most recent version rolled out on October 1, 2024.
This crisis highlights the vulnerability of modern software systems to unexpected hardware interactions, underscoring the need for better testing and validation procedures before releasing patches.
Will Intel's dominance in the CPU market lead to increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies, potentially forcing manufacturers to adopt more stringent testing protocols?
Dell has unveiled its Pro 34 Plus USB-C hub monitor, featuring a 34.1-inch WQHD IPS panel with a 100 Hz refresh rate, aimed at enhancing productivity for users. The monitor includes a variety of connectivity options, such as front-facing USB-C and USB-A ports, as well as a built-in hub designed for easy access. With a focus on eye comfort and color accuracy, the Pro 34 Plus is positioned as an ideal choice for tasks like photo editing and multimedia consumption.
This launch reflects Dell's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of professionals who demand high-quality displays and seamless connectivity in their workspaces.
How will the growing trend of productivity-focused monitors influence user experiences and workflows in different professional environments?
The Minisforum AI X1 Pro has outdone the M4 Mac Mini in several key areas, including raw output, multitasking capabilities, and gaming performance. The device boasts top-of-the-line hardware, including AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and an AMD Radeon 890M GPU, making it a powerful machine for creators, programmers, and coders. With its impressive features and competitive pricing, the Minisforum AI X1 Pro is a compelling alternative to the Mac Mini.
This device's ability to interface with AI-powered tasks at lightning-fast speeds has significant implications for industries like healthcare, finance, and education, where AI-driven insights can drive innovation and efficiency.
How will the widespread adoption of mini PCs like the Minisforum AI X1 Pro impact the tech industry's focus on larger, more powerful devices, potentially leading to a shift in consumer behavior and expectations?