Latest Windows How-To Stories
How-To
Is your Windows key reusable? Here’s how to find out
Want to reuse your existing Windows license key with a new PC? We explain how to determine if that’s possible.
Updated
How to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10
Windows 11 gives Microsoft's operating system a bold new look, but you can still make it feel (mostly) familiar. Here's how.
How-To
How to find the recovery key for your encrypted Windows 11 PC
Chances are that Microsoft automatically encrypted your PC during setup. But don’t worry—that key should be safely stored. Here’s where to find it.
How-To
How to install or move your Xbox PC games to any folder
Microsoft finally gives users some control over their Xbox game files.
Updated
3 easy steps anyone can take now to back up a PC
It really doesn't take much to set up a solid backup protocol for your PC. Here are the basics, with pointers to more details.
How-To
How to securely store photos and video on Android
Whether your collection includes makeshift scans of tax documents or personal videos, you can keep them under extra protection.
How-To
How to fix audio problems on your Windows PC
If your computer audio abruptly stops working, you can try these simple steps in five minutes or less.
How-To
How to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10
Don’t like Windows 11? You can go back to Windows 10. Here’s how.
Tip
Finally upgrading an older PC to Windows 10 or 11? Don't skip this time-saving step
A little preparation can nip activation problems in the bud when upgrading from Windows 7 or 8.1 to a newer version.
How-To
Windows 11 quietly adds subscription info to Settings
All Windows 11 users, and not just those who subscribe to Microsoft's beta programs, should see this new account subscriptions feature within the Windows 11 Settings menu. Here's how to use it and what to expect.
How-To
How to install Windows 11's new Android apps on your PC
Microsoft is expected to allow all Windows 11 PCs to install Android apps from the Amazon Appstore later this month. Here's how to do it.
How-To
How to boot into Safe Mode in Windows 11
Need to troubleshoot your Windows 11 PC? Safe Mode to the rescue! Here's how to get into it
How-To
How to tell which version of Windows you have
Knowing your version and edition of Windows is useful, especially if you’re about to upgrade. Here are several fast ways to get the info.
How-To
How to stop Microsoft Teams from automatically loading on your PC
If you're tired of Microsoft Teams automatically launching when you boot or restart your PC, there's an easy way to fix the problem without uninstalling the app. The Teams-based Chat app can be disabled, too.
How-To
How to uninstall programs in Windows 11
Need to clear out some cruft? Here's how to uninstall programs in Windows 11.
How-To
7 ways Microsoft's PowerToys enhance your PC experience
Microsoft's PowerToys are a set of free Windows tools that accomplish common, useful tasks quickly. Here's how they help me, and how they can help you as well.
Updated
How to set up your new computer
Set up your new computer the right way by performing these crucial tasks.
How-To
How to encrypt files in Windows
Whether you use Windows Pro's built-in Bitlocker or the free Veracrypt utility, encrypting a file, folder, or drive is an easy way to keep your sensitive documents secure.
How-To
How to turn on (and use) Bluetooth in Windows 10
Bluetooth makes connecting wireless devices easy. Here's how to activate it in Windows 10, and to make the operating system see your Bluetooth devices
How-To