How-To
SEE LATEST HOW-TO STORIES BY CATEGORY
Tip
How to update all your Windows PC's apps with a single click
It can be tedious to keep your software up to date under Windows. It's a lot easier with this free third-party package manager tool.
How-To
Why two SSDs are better than one in your PC
Most Windows PCs come with just one SSD. That may work for most people, but if you're really looking to boost your speed and free up bandwidth, then you should consider using two SSDs instead of one.
Tip
How to search multiple PDFs at the same time like a pro
With this simple trick, you can search through several PDF files simultaneously to find what you need faster.
How-To
9 replacements for Windows features that Microsoft abandoned
If you're missing a feature after a Windows upgrade, additional software can help fill in the gaps.
Tip
The brilliant Google Maps feature that nobody seems to know about
Google Maps offers a nifty web-only feature that can make it easier for you to plan trips. Here's how to turn it on and use it.
How-To
22 awesome free apps already installed on your Windows PC
Microsoft has developed many powerful free applications for Windows 11.
Updated
The trick to streaming the Olympics for free on Peacock
How to get Peacock Premium free trial via Instacart+
How-To
14 tips to protect your privacy on Windows 11
With the right settings enabled, you can make your Windows 11 experience more secure.
How-To
Windows gets Linux's sudo superpower: Here's how to turn it on
Learn what the powerful sudo command is, how it works, and how to enable it in Windows 11.
How-To
How to test if your VPN is working
Not sure your VPN is working? Read this quick and easy guide to make sure you're data is staying private and secure online with a VPN.
How-To
18 tweaks that give Windows 11 a personalized feel
Not happy with the look of Windows 11? Here are tips to make your computer look better and feel better.
How-To
How to use Windows Pro’s BitLocker device encryption on any PC
BitLocker is officially only available for Windows 10/11 Pro. However, the tool is actually also included in the Home versions, just hidden.
How-To
Apple TV hacks: These 5 tips and tricks are game changers
Ever want to hurl your Siri Remote in frustration? These must-know hacks will streamline your Apple TV 4K experience.
Tip
How to change what Windows does when you plug in a flash drive
When you connect a USB stick to your computer, the "AutoPlay" notification appears by default. This is annoying, but there is a simple solution.
How-To
20 smart tweaks that make Windows 11 more productive
Here's how to get more out of your Start Menu, Taskbar, Widgets — and many others.
How-To
4 ways to cool down your laptop in the summer heat
Summer is here and temperatures are rising. While a high temperature is great for a beach day, it's less great for your laptop. Here are four ways to cool down your laptop in the summer heat.
How-To
How to find lost gadgets (and avoid losing them)
Steps to find (and safeguard) a lost laptop, tablet, or phone.
Tip
7 nifty Windows File Explorer tips to keep under your belt
You use File Explorer all the time, but have you mastered it? Here's how to take full advantage of it.
Tip
Can't update Windows due to error code 0x80070643? Here's what to do
Here's what to do if this bug is preventing you from installing these important security updates for Windows.
Tip
How to set the default font for headings and text in Word
Since the last update, Microsoft Word uses Aptos instead of Calibri as the default font. If you don't like this font, you can easily switch to Calibri or another font.
How-To
This Windows feature eliminates the need for a USB flash drive
Still using the old-fashioned sneakernet to get files from one computer to another? Or uploading to the cloud to then download it again? There’s an easier way.
How-To
7 ways Windows collects your data (and how to opt out)
Microsoft tracks certain types of data on Windows 11 users. You can opt out of most of it.
Tip
Proof: Why you can't even trust verified Amazon reviews anymore
Reviews and ratings should inspire confidence while shopping, but Amazon's system is still easy to game with fake reviews.
Tip
How to download VMware Workstation Pro's hidden installer file
VMware Workstation Pro recently became free, but the installer download is hidden away. Here's how to get it and install it.
How-To
Silence, please! How to turn off auto-playing Netflix previews
Annoyed by the auto-playing previews while browsing Netflix for something to stream? Here's how to turn them off.
Updated
Is your Roku player talking to you? Here’s how to shush it
There’s an easy remedy for a suddenly chatty Roku player or TV.
How-To
How to set up virtual PCs with VMware Workstation, a now-free pro tool
Here's how to set up virtual PCs with Windows and Linux using the professional software VMware Workstation Pro.
Tip
The Amazon triangle scam: What it is, how it works, and what to do
Triangulation fraud is a type of scam that occurs on ecommerce marketplaces—including Amazon.
Tip
How to revive your broken USB flash drive
Recovering data from an unformattable USB drive can be challenging, but not impossible.
Tip
Google Drive storage still full after deleting files? Here's why
Here's the solution for when deleted files continue to take up storage space in Google Drive.
Tip
This clever tip alerts you when apps are added to Startup in Windows 11
Did you know Windows 11 can immediately inform you when an app is added to the auto-start list?
How-To
How to uninstall Kaspersky antivirus before it gets banned
The US government is banning Kaspersky security software—so it’ll soon stop working. Here’s how to remove it from your system.
How-To
Master Microsoft 365's hidden gems: OneDrive, OneNote, and Clipchamp
Your guide to three of the lesser known programs in the Microsoft 365 subscription.
How-To
Did you watch that? How to find your Netflix streaming history
You can summon a list of all the films and TV shows you've streamed on Netflix in just a few steps. This guide shows you how.
Updated
You can’t change the Roku’s quick shortcuts, but there's a workaround
If you have the right Roku remote, you can program its personal shortcut buttons. Here's how.
Tip
How to tell if a gaming mouse will give you a sore wrist
Here's how to tell if your gaming mouse is going to cause you wrist pain and what to do about it.
How-To
How to mirror your smartphone display on your PC monitor
The ultimate in multitasking is being able to view your phone's display on your PC monitor, saving you the trouble of having to volley between two screens.
How-To
6 powerful Windows apps that tweak, tune, and speed up your PC
Use tweaking tools to repair, speed up, and clean up Windows and customize it to your requirements. These are the best programs.
How-To
Security cam setup: Where you should (and shouldn’t) install one
Installing security cameras is one of the best ways to protect your home. But some locations are better than others, and there are privacy issues to consider too.
How-To
Age verification laws threaten Pornhub, but a VPN can help
Recent age verification restrictions have made it difficult to access adult content in some U.S. states, except with the right VPN.
How-To
Become a PowerPoint pro: 7 must-know tips and tricks
With these tricks and features, you'll learn how to make better PowerPoint presentations in less time.
How-To
How to check Microsoft Word documents for plagiarism
Microsoft Word can check how closely a document resembles publications on the web, available in both online and desktop versions.
How-To
Better Wi-Fi thanks to mesh: What you need to know
Want faster Wi-Fi speed and better wireless coverage? A mesh network might be what you need. Here are the advantages and how to get started.
How-To
Buying a printer? 6 tips to avoid one that sucks
Find the right printer with our purchasing advice. We answer questions about printing technology, throughput, equipment and follow-up costs.
Tip
How does a CAPTCHA know that I'm not a robot?
CAPTCHA tests are a common means of protecting against bots and spam. But how does it actually work? We explain the magic behind the curtain.
How-To
How to turn off Recall on Copilot+ PCs: Stop Windows from recording everything
The new Windows Recall function records everything that happens on your PC and takes a screenshot of your screen every five seconds. This allows you to switch off Recall permanently and protect your privacy.
How-To
Confused by Alexa's light rings? Here’s what the colors mean
The indicator lights on your Echo speaker can flash in seven different colors. Here’s what they’re trying to tell you.
How-To
How to master Excel: From beginner to pro
With these tips, you can become a true Excel magician.
How-To
USB-C not charging? Try these tricks
Here are a few tips to try when your USB-C device isn't charging.
Cord-Cutter Confidential