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Question: 44
You need to configure the RailStatusUpdater cloud flow.
What should you do?
A. Create a JavaScript function to update the run mode values of each action within the desktop flow.
B. Create an environment variable. Update each desktop flow action to read the variable.
C. Manually update each desktop flow action to change the run mode.
D. Create a desktop flow to update the run mode values of each action within the cloud flow. Answer: A Question: 45
A new chrome book is connected in a schools network.
Which component can the EMS administrator use to manage the FortiClient web filter extension installed on the
Google Chromebook endpoint?
A. FortiClient EMS
B. FortiClient site categories
C. FortiClient customer URL list
D. FortiClient web filter extension Answer: D Question: 46
A new chrome book is connected in a schools network.
Which component can the EMS administrator use to manage the FortiClient web filter extension installed on the
Google Chromebook endpoint?
A. FortiClient EMS
B. FortiClient site categories
C. FortiClient customer URL list
D. FortiClient web filter extension Answer: D Question: 47
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DRAG DROP
You create a Microsoft Power Platform solution. You create variables to define input values for the flow. You export
the solution as managed and import the solution into a user acceptance testing (UAT) environment.
The flow in the UAT environment is still using the values from the development (DEV) environment.
You need to resolve the issue.
Which four actions should you perform in sequence? To answer, move the appropriate actions from the list of actions
to the answer area and arrange them in the correct order. Answer: Question: 48
You need to package the automations.
What should you do?
A. Show dependencies within the solution.
B. Remove unmanaged layers.
C. Add required components to each item within the solution.
D. Add existing components to the solution. Answer: B Question: 49
Topic 2, City Power and Light
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Background
City Power and Light is one of the biggest energy companies in North America. They extract, produce and transport
oil. The company has more than 50 offices and 100 oil extraction facilities throughout the United States, Canada, and
Mexico. They use railways, trucks, and pipelines to move oil and gas from their facilities.
The company provides the following services:
Produce oil from oil sands safely, responsibly, and reliably
Refine crude oil into high-quality products
Develop and manage wind power facilities.
Transport oil to different countries/regions.
City Power and Light uses various Microsoft software products to manage its daily activities and run its machine-
critical applications.
Requirements
ManagePipelineMaintenanceTasks
A user named Admin1 creates a cloud flow named ManagePipelineMaintenanceTasks. Admin1 applies a data loss
prevention (DLP) policy to the flow. Adminlshares the flow with a user named PipelineManager1 as co-owner. You
must determine the actions that PipelineManager can perform.
MaintenanceScheduler
You create a cloud flow that uses a desktop flow. The desktop flow connects to third-party services to fetch
information. You must not permit the desktop flow to run for more than 20 minutes.
You must configure sharing for MatinenanceScheduler to meet the following requirements:
User1 must be able to work with you to modify the desktop flow.
User2 must be able to access and review the run history for the flow.
You must grant User3 permissions to run but not modify the desktop flow.
ERPDataOperations flow
City Power and light uses an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The ERP system does not have an API.
Each day the company receives an email that contains an attachment. The attachment lists orders from the companys
rail transportation partners. You must create an automation solution that reads the contents of the email and writes
records to the ERP system. The solution must pass credentials from a cloud flow to a desktop flow.
RailStatusUpdater
City Power and Light actively monitors all products in transit. You must create a flow named
RailStatusUpdater that manages communications with railways that transport the companys products.
RailStatusUpdater includes five desktop flow actions.
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You must run the desktop flows in attended mode during testing. You must run the desktop flows in unattended mode
after you deploy the solution. You must minimize administrative efforts.
Packaging
You must package the automations in a solution. All required components must be included in the solution.
Issues
ProductionMonitor flow
You create a cloud flow named ProductionMonitor which uses the Manually trigger a flow trigger.
You plan to trigger ProductionMonitor from a cloud flow named ProdManager.
You add a Run a Child flow action in ProdManager to trigger ProductionMonitor.
When you attempt to save ProdManager the following error messaqe displays:
CapacityPlanning flow
Developers within the company use cloud flows to access data from an on-premises capacity planning system.
You observe significant increases to the volume of traffic that the on-premises data gateway processes each day. You
must minimize gateway failures.
DataCollector flow
You have a desktop flow that interacts with a web form. The flow must write data to several fields on the form.
You are testing the flow. The flow fails when attempting to write data to any field on the web form.
RailStatusUpdater flow
The RailStatusUpdater flow occasionally fails due to machine connection errors. You can usually get the desktop flow
to complete by resubmitting the cloud flow run. You must automate the retry process to ensure that you do not need to
manually resubmit the cloud flow when machine connection errors occur.
HOTSPOT
You need to configure the solution for the ERPDataOperations flow.
Which configuration values should you use? To answer, select the appropriate options in the answer area. NOTE: Each
correct selection is worth one point.
$13$10 Answer: Question: 50
You are developing a flow that interacts with a Microsoft Dataverse table named Account.
The table includes the following columns:
The flow must only trigger when a record is added to the Accounts table and the following conditions are met:
the websiteurl field is set to https://microsoft.com
the crabd.triggerflow field is set to Yes
You need to configure the flow trigger.
Which trigger condition expression should you use?
A)
B)
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C)
D)
A. Option A
B. Option B
C. Option C
D. Option D Answer: A
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The world has fast evolved into a digitally driven space, where everyone has at least one finger in technology. You no longer need to hire a graphics professional to design a simple card or brochure.
Now, many applications can help you achieve your dreams with proper knowledge and a few clicks and drags. One such application is Microsoft Publisher.
Here, weâll explain what Microsoft Publisher is and how it works. We will also briefly discuss the basic features and terms peculiar to the application and guide you through a simple design using these features and tools.
What Is Microsoft Publisher?
Microsoft Publisher is a multipurpose, user-friendly application that enables users to create professional-looking print and digital publications, such as brochures, flyers, and newsletters.
As part of the Microsoft Office suite, Publisher offers many templates, design tools, and fonts that make it accessible for beginners and professionals. One feature that distinguishes Microsoft Publisher from similar software is its affordability.
Other features include its ease of use, integration with other Microsoft Office applications, and the ability to export publications in various formats. Furthermore, Microsoft Publisher provides various online resources such as tutorials, templates, forums, and third-party websites that offer tips and tricks to help users create and design exceptional publications.
Whether you want to create designs for yourself, your business, or a corporate organization, Microsoft Publisher is a powerful and adaptable tool that can help you design high-quality publications effortlessly.
Basic Terms in Microsoft Publisher
Like other Microsoft applications, Microsoft Publisher has some specific terms you should understand to better grasp its functionalities. Some of these terms are:
Publication: A publication is any document that you create in Microsoft Publisher. It can be a brochure, a flyer, a newsletter, or any other type of design.
Template: A template is a pre-designed layout that you can use to create a publication quickly. Publisher has many templates, from cookbooks and restaurant menus to birthday cards and wedding albums.
Page: A page is a single sheet of a publication. In addition, you can add or remove pages from a single publication as you see fit.
Master Page: A master page is a template that allows you to apply consistent design elements, such as headers and footers, to all pages in a publication. The master page is usually the first page of your publication.
Text Box: A text box is a resizable and moveable holder for any text you add to a publication. Text boxes can be of different sizes and have different boundary designs.
Picture Placeholder: A picture placeholder is a container for images you add to a publication. It helps you to maintain consistency in image sizes and placement.
Object: An object is any element you add to a publication, such as a shape, a line, or a picture.
Background: The background is the color or design behind the text and images in a publication.
Color Scheme: A color scheme is a set of colors used consistently throughout a publication. Publisher provides a variety of color schemes to choose from.
Layer: A layer is a transparent plane that helps you organize and arrange objects in a publication. You can add or remove layers and adjust their order to suit your choices.
Gridlines: Gridlines are the lines that appear on a publication page to help you align and position objects. They are adjustable, as you can tweak their spacing and visibility.
Guides: Guides are non-printing lines that allow you to align and position objects precisely. These guides can be removed or adjusted, depending on your design or publication goals.
Basic Features of Microsoft Publisher
Each Microsoft application has features that make it unique, user-friendly, and easy to navigate. Some, like Excel, have advanced features for different operations and tasks. In the same way, Microsoft Publisher has some features that make designing a seamless process.
Templates: This application offers various pre-designed templates that creators can use to quickly create flyers, brochures, newsletters, cookbooks, and other types of publications.
Design Tools: The software offers an array of design tools that users can use to customize the appearance of their publications. This includes color schemes, fonts, and images.
Layout Guides: The layout guide feature helps you to align and position your text and graphics properly to create a professional-looking publication.
Mail Merge: With Mail Merge, users can create customized mass mailings for events such as newsletters, fundraising letters, and direct mail marketing.
Page Navigation: This feature lets you move quickly between pages in a document, make edits, and add new pages as needed.
Text Formatting: Publisher offers extensive text formatting tools, including font size, color, style, and alignment, as well as paragraph and line spacing options.
Picture Editing: Whether you need to crop, resize or add special effects to your photos, Microsoft Publisher makes editing and enhancing pictures a smooth and straightforward process.
Object Layering: This feature allows you to move text and images around the document without affecting other elements.
Design Checker: This feature helps you to check and confirm the consistency of your design just before you print it. Running the design checker will bring up a list of errors you can correct or uncheck before you save, mail, or print your design.
Export and Print: Publisher allows you to save publications in different formats such as PDF, HTML, and JPG. Additionally, you can print directly from the app or export the document if you want to print it elsewhere.
Integration with Other Microsoft Office Applications: Microsoft Publisher integrates with other Microsoft Office applications, such as Word and Excel, making it easier for designers to create professional-looking publications with data from other programs.
Common Designs You Can Create With Microsoft Publisher
While people in different industries use Microsoft Publisher for various types of designs, there are some standard designs for which most people often use the software. So much so that these designs exist on Publisher as templates. Some of the most common ones include:
Brochures: There are a variety of brochure templates that you can customize with your text and images. These templates have different layout styles, such as tri-fold or bi-fold.
Fliers and Posters: Fliers are a great way to promote an event, sale, or business. To this end, Publisher allows you to create eye-catching fliers with bold text and compelling images.
Newsletters: Microsoft Publisher provides newsletter templates for creating professional-looking newsletters. You can add articles, photos, and other content to enrich your newsletter.
Business cards: Your business card is often a great point of contact when relating with potential clients. As such, Publisher allows you to create custom business cards that speak volumes about your brand.
Calendars: Calendars are a valuable tool for organizing your schedule and keeping track of important dates. Also, they make good souvenirs for different occasions. Publisher provides calendar templates you can customize with photos and events.
Greeting and Invitation Cards: Publisher allows you to create personalized greeting and invitation cards for birthdays, holidays, and other occasions. Thanks to the many available templates, you have an array to choose from.
Certificates: Publisher is perfect for designing certificates for employee, student, and volunteer awards and recognition. Available templates make it even easierâall you have to do is edit the text and add your logo.
E-books: Publisher is one of the many tools for creating E-books in PDF or EPUB format. This software allows you to add text, images, and other content and customize the layout for different devices.
Simple Design With Microsoft Publisher: Start to Finish
Before creating a design, you should have a general idea of the final product you expect. Next up, you'll have to decide whether to modify an existing template or start your creation from scratch.
Letâs take the design of a basic certificate as a case study. First, open a new publication in landscape or portrait mode.
Add a background from the Page Design tab and borders from the Insert tab.
Draw your textbox and type in the text. You will need different textboxes for different sections on your page. Luckily, Publisher's text boxes work the same as those in Microsoft Word.
Microsoft Publisher also supports common keyboard shortcuts like other Microsoft Office applications. For instance, Ctrl + P is for printing, and Ctrl + O is for opening a new document. Once you have your text, you can add objects (shapes and pictures) to the page if you like. Each text box or object has a box-shaped border that allows you to resize or reorder them.
When you finish your design, run the design check before you print. On the File tab, click Info > Run Design Checker. When the results come up, you can select and correct each error until all the errors clear out.
Finally, the last step is to either mail or print the design.
Enhance Your Designs With Microsoft Publisher
While there are other types of desktop publishing software, Microsoft Publisher stands out as accessible and affordable, offering a variety of tools and features for creating professional-looking documents.
Its intuitive interface and integration with other Microsoft Office applications make it a convenient choice for individuals and small businesses. Users can create eye-catching designs with a wide selection of templates and design elements, reducing the need for extensive graphic design expertise.
Mon, 22 May 2023 04:30:18 -0500en-UStext/htmlhttps://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/a-beginner-s-guide-to-microsoft-publisher/ar-AA1bx4e1Force widgets in Windows 11 or 10 to use default browser instead of Edge0 0
Thanks to Microsoft's weird ongoing battle to force people to use its own browser, going so far as to ignore the default browser choice by instead opening Edge browser in things like widgets and links throughout Windows 10 and 11; this means we have to resort to third party apps to get around this behavior, and get Windows to do what we wanted it to do.
Thankfully we can install MSEdgeRedirect to correct this shortfall, and I am happy to report it even works with the new Windows 11 Dev Channel build 25120 Search widget on the desktop.
You may wonder how it works, from the Github page, the description is as follows:
This tool filters and passes the command line arguments of Microsoft Edge processes into your default browser instead of hooking into the microsoft-edge: handler, this should provide resiliency against future changes.
This little guide will walk you through installing and configuring it to work on Windows 10 or 11. Before we start, this app is Open Source and available through Github, the developers also stress that this is a beta software, which makes sense, because Microsoft keeps moving the goal posts. This is why another popular app, EdgeDeflector, no longer works.
First off, download the latest MSEdgeRedirect, which is as of writing version 0.6.5.0. You can choose the installer or the portable version, whichever works for you. Run the executable and after carefully reviewing the License, accept it by clicking on Next.
Although Active Mode is recommended, this is beta software and I prefer to have full control over the app so I can adjust the settings and exit it from the system tray icon if needed, so I chose Service Mode, which also does not require Admin privileges. If you prefer this app to live in the background as if it is not there, but doing what you selected in the initial install process, you can select Active Mode, and then click Next.
Here you can set the app preferences, I chose to start the app with Windows and redirect Windows Store 'Apps' from using Edge, this is important to check off, because the widgets in Windows 10 like the News & Interests panel and widgets in Windows 11 now use Edge if you do not select to redirect Windows Store 'Apps'. If you want, you can also stop Windows using Bing for search results and redirect to your favorite Search engine.
In my case I was also updating from an older version too, click Install or Update, depending on your situation.
Lastly, you can set your preferred options as seen above and click finish.
As pointed out above, this app even opens the default browser choice when using the new Desktop Search widget on Windows 11 build 25120, as well as all widgets and search terms from the Start menu are properly redirected to your default browser.
Ultimately, it's up to you if you want to take back control.
Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://www.neowin.net/guides/force-widgets-in-windows-11-or-10-to-use-default-browser-instead-of-edge/Windows vs. Linux: The Ultimate Comparison Guide
Windows or Linux? The age-old debate never ends, but we compare them both here!
Windows and Linux are like the sides of a coin; the differences between both are stark.
Microsoft Windows is a proprietary operating system created by Microsoft and is the widely used operating system around the globe.
On the other hand, Linux is an open-source operating system available in various Linux distros such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian, etc.
In this post, we will compare Windows and Linux operating systems, covering which is the best in terms of ease of use, speed, privacy, security, gaming, and more. Let us dive right in.
What Is Windows Operating System?
Microsoft Windows has been the most popular operating system for decades. Since its introduction as a graphical user interface for MS-DOS in 1985, it has been popular among desktop and laptop users worldwide. It has had various versions over the years. Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 98, etc., are iconic. Windows 10 still remains the popular installation among computers, even though Windows 11 was launched last year.
Windows 10 still remains the popular installation among computers, even though Windows 11 was launched last year.
What Is Linux Operating System?
Linux Operating System is an open-source operating system available as various Linux Distributions. Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian, and Fedora are popular Linux Distros. Even Android is built on Linux Kernel. Even ChromeOS, you see on various Chromebooks, is based on Linux.
Linux was initially released in September 1991 by Linus Torvalds as an alternative to Unix, which was quite popular then.
The various Distros of Linux bring different things to the table. If you want a Windows-like experience, you can choose Linux Mint. If you want a Linux Distros for your old laptop, you can use Puppy Linux, Linux Lite, or Bodhi Linux. If you want a Linux distro for gaming, you can use Ubuntu GamePack or Drauger OS.
Windows Vs. Linux
The differences between Windows and Linux are vast. Straight from being owned by a large corporation like Microsoft and being an open-source operating system that everyone can use. Let us look at the differences between both operating systems based on various aspects, starting with the user interface.
User Interface
Pin
Windows user interface has remained similar over the years. The Start menu lets you launch applications and get a taskbar, and the various applications are presented in multiple windows, with the window controls on the top right side. Windows 8 tried reimagining the Start menu, but users didnât like it, and Microsoft had to backtrack. With Windows 11, Microsoft has done away with live tiles that we saw in Windows 8, which are also present in Windows 10. Now, the Start menu has become more streamlined with minimal design.
PinUbuntu desktopPinLinux Mint desktop
Linux UI differs from distro to distro. Some distros come with customized desktop environments, such as Gnome, KDE, Cinnamon, etc., which differ vastly in design. Some Linux distros even let you choose which desktop environment you want to use with the installation. So yes, it is a vastly different experience from what you get from Windows, and it depends on the distro youâre going for and the desktop environment you want.
Ease of Use
With everyone used to the user interface of Windows, it should be the better one in terms of ease of use, as youâre accustomed to it. It is also easier to install, as anyone can do it. But you generally donât need to install Windows on your laptop or PC as it was pre-installed.
On the other hand, Linux has always remained a little tricky to get into for beginners. But with the introduction of distros such as Ubuntu and Linux Mint, the installation and setup process has been made much simpler. But the same is not the case with other distros such as Debian or Gentoo. Usability is also vastly different across distros and depends on the desktop environment youâre currently on.
Speed
Windows is infamous for random crashes and being a slouch sometimes. It can also slow down sometimes to the point you have to restart the computer. Even though Microsoft has improved heavily in this aspect over the years, and Windows 11 is as stable as ever, it still doesnât match the speed and stability of a Linux system. Linux is less resource hungry than Windows. Plus, you can choose the minimal Linux distros if you want a much less resource-hungry OS, such as Puppy Linux and Bodhi Linux.
Privacy & Security
When it comes to Privacy and Security, Linux is the clear winner. Linux has a much smaller user base than Windows, exponentially increasing the threats on Windows. Most malware and viruses are made for Windows because of that, and those wonât work on Linux.
Linux also has its share of threats. But Linux limits access to root or administrator accounts, so even if your system is compromised, it cannot do much without administrative access.
Linux is better than Windows on Privacy. Windows collects some user data for analysis, while Linux doesnât collect any.
For Security and Privacy, Linux is the operating system you should go for. However, Windows has come far in this matter, and with its default Windows Defender protection, it is much safer now.
Hardware Requirements
Linux wins, hands down. Linux can run on anything, even the 15-year-old laptop lying around and barely turning on.
Windows has been in hot water with the new Windows 11 hardware requirements. While the hardware requirements arenât high, Windows 11 requires your PC or laptop to have a TPM 2.0 chipset and have UEFI Secure Boot enabled. That puts many older systems not compatible with Windows 11, which is one of the reasons Windows 11 lags behind Windows 10 in terms of active installations.
Gaming
When it comes to gaming, Windows is the one to go for. Especially since Microsoftâs Xbox Game Pass for PC is available for Windows 11, it also has better support for graphic cards, be it AMD or Nvidia.
Linux is a decent option for gaming now that more and more games are compatible with gaming due to Valveâs SteamOS, which is based on Linux.
But Windows remains the defacto choice for gaming, especially for casual gamers. The ease of use, extensive game library, and driver support are unparalleled on Windows.
Applications Support & Compatibility
Like gaming, Windows has the upper hand over applications over Linux. Windows is the most popular desktop operating system, and most applications have developer support. Also, many Microsoft first-party applications, such as Microsoft Office, Paint, and Notepad, are super popular. Windows now have Microsoft Store for getting your apps and games, but still, many apps are distributed independently.
Linux isnât further back in terms of applications. It prides itself on being open-source and has support for a wide range of open-source applications. Most Windows applications have open-source alternatives on Linux if it isnât available natively. Also, Linux can run Windows programs with a software called Wine. But how well it runs on your Linux PC depends. Various Linux Distros come with various app stores such as Gnome Software, Ubuntu App Store, KDE Discover, and more.
Windows wins hands down on this aspect, just because of the wide range of applications available for Windows.
Pricing
Windows 11 is available in two flavors: Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Home costs $139, while Windows 11 Pro costs $199.99. Windows 11 comes pre-installed with most laptops and desktops now; the manufacturer of your computer pays for it. If youâre building your own PC, you have to buy Windows 11 license to use it.
Linux is open source and is completely free.
Windows Vs. Linux: Which Is Better For You?
Pin
Choosing the best from Windows and Linux is going to be a task. Windows 11 brings you the ease of use and all the applications youâd ever want, and it is the best for gaming. In contrast, Linux is free, has better privacy & security, and doesnât slow down easily.
Both operating systems are meant for different users. Windows is more consumer-focused, while Linux is the choice for power users.
Windows is an excellent choice for individuals and businesses opting for an operating system that is easy to use, compatible with most applications, and has interoperability with other Microsoft apps and services. It is also the best choice for gamers!
Linux, on the other hand, is the choice for enthusiasts who love tinkering with their PC, the customizability it brings, and open-source software. It is also an excellent choice for businesses that want a secure and stable computing environment.
If youâre a Windows user looking to migrate to Linux, you can start with either Ubuntu or Linux Mint. Both are more consumer-oriented Linux distros and donât require you to have in-depth knowledge of Linux. Both can be installed easily, and Linux Mint even tried to look a bit like Windows.
Abhijith S
Abhijith has been writing about Tech since 2013 on his own blogs. He handles Tech news in KnowYourMobile. He also used to host a YouTube channel about phones. Other than Tech, he is into Formula 1, Wrestling, various TV shows and buying Kindle books he barely reads.
Thu, 01 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0500en-GBtext/htmlhttps://www.knowyourmobile.com/user-guides/windows-vs-linux/Windows Copilot for Windows 11 could be a Cortana youâd want to use
ChatGPT and Bing Chat have been building towards this moment â Windows Copilot.
Microsoft announced Windows Copilot today (May 23) at its annual Build conference, which has been filled with references to AI. But while many of the AI features announced at Build are focused on developers and enterprise users, Windows Copilot will have an impact on the daily lives of Windows 11 users as soon as it is available through Windows 11 Preview in June 2023.
And this is by design â Microsoft wants Copilot to take over your Windows experience by placing it âfront and center.â When Copilot finally launches it will be impossible to miss, as the Copilot icon will live right next to the Windows 11 search bar on your desktop. And as you work, it will stay alongside you in the form of a sidebar that Microsoft promises will be âconsistent across your apps, programs and windows.â
Microsoft wants Copilot to take over your Windows experience by placing it âfront and center.â
If Microsoft gets it right, this new Copilot will be the way users interact with Windows, rendering the neighboring search bar potentially useless. The new AI assistant will be able to handle copy and paste functions, Snap Assist, Snipping Tool, rewriting your content and more. It can also handle Bing Chatâs question-answering functions thanks to integrating Bing Chat and its ever-growing list of third-party plugins into Windows Copilot.Â
But if Microsoft gets it wrong, this could just be Cortana 2.0 â another failed assistant experiment that fails to prove its utility.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
See, Microsoft has been here before, and Iâm not talking about integrating Bing Chat into everything from your phoneâs keyboard to your Windows 11 taskbar. Iâm talking about Cortana â Microsoftâs failed assistant for Windows 10.
Like Copilot and Bing Chat, Microsoft thought that Cortana would be the future of digital assistants. And like Copilot and Bing Chat, Microsoft integrated it into everything, from Windows 10 to Amazon Alexa. But the problem was nobody wanted to use it â at least not compared to the competition.
Here is where Microsoft has the advantage this time around. It already failed once, so in theory, it knows what it got wrong with Cortana â namely that it didnât make completing tasks on the computer any more efficient.Â
And to be fair, Copilot does seem to be addressing this. The focus of Windows Copilot isnât setting reminders or controlling music, itâs about making productivity on your Windows 11 more efficient and answering difficult questions in a simple manner. And if it can truly fully integrate Bing Chat into the Windows 11 desktop experience, it even takes out the step of needing to open a web browser for a range of tasks from researching subjects to booking flights
(Image credit: Microsoft)
But the other advantage Microsoft has is that it's a first-mover in the field of consumer-grade AI assistants.Â
Shockingly, it actually held this advantage to a degree with Cortana â it beat Google Assistant to market by two years â but Siri had already established itself as a superior product showing what assistant apps can do at their best. Cortana, despite not competing directly with Siri and Appleâs closed ecosystem (you werenât going to put Cortana on your Apple device or Siri on your Windows device) simply never proved it was superior or groundbreaking in comparison.
Windows Copilot, on the other hand, only has three competitors. The ChatGPT app developed by OpenAI, Googleâs AI search products and the outdated generation of assistant programs such as Siri, Google Assistant and, formerly, Cortana.
Microsoft will be the first of any of these to integrate a generative AI assistant into a PC desktop experience, and if it impresses people it will set the bar for useful AI assistants. And the tools to do that â from generative AI writing capabilities, integration with third-party plugins and more â are all there. But if Microsoft canât convince people that this is actually useful, Windows Copilot will just be another Cortana.
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Tue, 23 May 2023 10:51:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://www.tomsguide.com/opinion/windows-copilot-for-windows-11-could-be-a-cortana-youd-want-to-useuPVC windows guide 2023: Types, styles and benefits explained
One of the major benefits of modern uPVC windows is the amount of colours and finishes you can choose from. Most suppliers offer single and dual colour options, so you can match the indoor frame to your homeâs interior design.Â
For properties that want or need to mimic authentic timber windows, you can find replications of different wood grain, but the quality will vary depending on price. A coloured uPVC will more likely replicate the look of painted timber than a simple white, but will not really be able to truly compare with real timber upon close inspection.
When it comes to costs, white uPVC frames are the cheapest choice, with grey and other colours costing around 10 per cent more. A quality wood grain or custom-made finish may cost up to 20 per cent more than plain white. However, when considering how much kerb appeal perks house value, the style and colour of your windows will make a significant difference, so itâs definitely worth putting some thought into your choice.
White uPVC windows
White uPVC windows are a classic option that will suit most properties. Some may be hesitant towards white uPVC windows because of how older frames have aged, yellowed and shown signs of wear and tear, but suppliers of modern uPVC windows offer a warranty specifically for white frames to cover any discolouration. Routine maintenance (wiping down the windows with a damp cloth) should also solve any perceived weathering. If white is too stark for your home, a cream finish can provide a softer, yet equally modern, polished look.
Grey uPVC windows
Grey uPVC windows can provide a modern edge to homes and boost kerb appeal, offering a cheaper alternative to aluminium frames or painted timber (Adobe)
Grey is a very popular colour for uPVC windows, due to its cool aesthetic and easy maintenance â hiding any lichen or moss that might show more readily on white frames. Specifically, anthracite-coloured windows have become the most popular, overtaking white windows, in accurate years. This style gives dated home exteriors an uplift by mimicking more expensive aluminium frames.Â
Black uPVC windows
Black windows are striking and can define a homeâs exterior design. Much like grey, black has become a go-to colour for uPVC windows in accurate years and can mimic an industrial look without the price-tag. Black uPVC windows can be susceptible to fading with UV, so might be best installed somewhere that doesnât receive too much direct sunlight. Cleaning frames regularly will help keep them in good condition.
Colourful uPVC windows
Windows arenât just available in monochrome hues, as many suppliers now offer more daring colourways. For homes that want a dose of energy, choosing a dark blue or light green colour for your uPVC windows could provide your property the facelift it needs. This can work wonders on 1980s semis and period cottages alike.Â
The colour you choose depends on your home style and personal preferences, but take inspiration from similar homes in the surrounding area to see what works best with the local materials, such as yellow Cotswolds stone or grey flint. If in doubt, talk to your window supplier or an architect to make sure your windows match your desired aesthetic for design consistency.
Tue, 30 May 2023 04:25:00 -0500en-GBtext/htmlhttps://www.independent.co.uk/advisor/windows/upvc-windowsWindows 11 features, pricing and everything you need to know
Update: Microsoft's big 'Build' developers conference is taking place on May 23, and we could be seeing some information about the next big update to Windows 11. If you'd like to watch the event, you can do that right here - we'll update this page if anything major gets revealed, so stay tuned...
Windows 11 is out and available as a free upgrade for those still on Windows 10. But, before you go grabbing that download, find out all the important information about this brand-new OS. Weâve covered all the important questions, such as the operating systemâs best features, how to download it, and its price.
Make sure to also take a look at our Windows 11 review, where we cover all the improvements the new OS has made, from offering an updated, attractive design, to new ways to grab apps as well as better security features.
While there is still some room for improvement, Windows 11 is turning out to be a very promising update. And, if youâre currently using Windows 10, itâs free to upgrade to 11, as long as your computer meets certain strict minimum system requirements required for the sake of the operating systemâs security.
Just bear in mind that there's still some confusion as to what these system requirements are due to a component called TPM (Trusted Platform Module). Right now, it looks like Microsoft isn't going to budge on its requirement that your device is equipped with a TPM 2.0 in order to run a fully supported version of the new OS.
Now that Windows 11's 2022 update has been released, letâs take a look at what the operating system has to offer, from its updated features to the benefits it has for users over Windows 10.
Windows 11: Cut to the chase
What is it? Windows 11 is the successor to Windows 10
When did it come out? October 5
How much does it cost? Free (if you already have Windows 10)
Many laptop and PC makers have also confirmed that many of their new products will come with Windows 11 preinstalled. This includes Microsoft's new Surface Pro 8, Surface Go 3 and Surface Laptop Studio devices, which were launched to coincide with Windows 11's release date.
There is also going to be a yearly update of the new operating system, similar to Apple's efforts with macOS.
While Microsoft released a tool that allowed you to see if your desktop PC or laptop will be able to run Windows 11, it was confirmed to be buggy, giving erroneous results for machines that would have no problem in running the update.
However, another tool has been released which gives you much clearer detail for how eligible for PC is.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Windows 11 system requirements
There's been a lot of discussion as to which devices are eligible for Windows 11. Regardless of the TPM requirement, others are simply wondering if they need to look to upgrade their PC or laptop soon.
Microsoft has published the requirements for the update which you view below:
Processor:Â 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with at least two cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or SoC
RAM:Â 4GB
Storage:Â 64GB
System Firmware:Â UEFI, Secure Boot capable
TPM:Â Trusted Platform Module 2.0
Graphics Card:Â DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
Display:Â 720p, 8-bit per color channel, at least 9-inch diagonal
Internet Connection and Microsoft Account:Â Windows 11 Home requires an active internet connection and a Microsoft Account to complete initial, first-use setup of the operating system, or when switching a device out of Windows 11 Home in S-mode.
(Image credit: Microsoft)
How to download Windows 11
We have a handy guide on how to download Windows 11, which gives you all the information you need now that the final version has been released.
It's a relatively simple process, as long as your PC meets Windows 11's minimum system requirements.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
There's also an option to downgrade to Windows 10 if you are experiencing issues with Windows 11. This is available in the current Insider builds, but you can only do it within 10 days of upgrading your machine, otherwise a clean install has to be done in order to go to Windows 10.
How to download Windows 11 ISO for a clean install
If you'd like to perform a fresh install of Windows 11, rather than upgrading from Windows 10 (or earlier), then you'll need to download the Windows 11 ISO file.
Doing a clean install takes a bit more time, and you'll need to reinstall all of your apps and restore your files if you've backed them up (which you should do before you start), but there are many benefits of doing a clean install of Windows 11.
For a start, you'll get a much better performing PC, and if you were encountering any issues with Windows 10, a clean install can help fix some of these. Over the years your PC's hard drive may become filled with unwanted apps and files, so a clean install can get rid of all of that.
If that's the way you want to install the operating system, then check out our guide on how to download the Windows 11 ISO for more advice.
How to upgrade to Windows 11 without TPM 2.0
Some people have found that they are unable to install Windows 11 due to the requirement for PCs to have TPM 2.0 support.
This is a relatively little known security feature, but it's caused some people a fair bit of frustration as they've found they've been unable to install Windows 11.
We do have a guide to enable TPM 2.0 if needed, but you may be out of luck if your PC doesn't support it.
However, there is a way to upgrade to Windows 11 without TPM 2.0, but this should only be done by people who are really desperate to run Windows 11 despite not meeting the system requirements.
There may be an occasion however, where you may need to revert back to Windows 10. This could be due to an app not being compatible as yet, or Windows 11 doesn't take kindly to a component in your PC.
Windows 11 is a free update for existing Windows users â you'll need to be online to download, install and activate Home versions, and you'll need to have a Microsoft account when installing it on or upgrading your PC or tablet.
Windows 11 will also come pre-installed for free on new PCs and laptops as well, though you should check before you buy to make sure. In some cases, new laptops and PCs may still be sold with Windows 10, and you'll have to upgrade for free yourself.
Windows 11 product keys for fresh installs will likely go on sale in 2022, but we don't know how much it'll cost.
It could cost as much as Windows 10 licences originally sold for: Windows 10 Home cost ÂŁ119.99/$139 and Windows 10 Pro sold for ÂŁ219.99/$199.99, so we could see similar prices for Windows 11.
So far Microsoft has released the hardware requirements for Windows 11, but there's confusion over TPM (Trusted Platform Module) and whether the company are pushing hard over the minimum threshold for which devices are eligible to be updated to the new version.
While we've got a handy explainer for you that goes into TPM, hardware vendors can still offer new machines with Windows 11 that won't need this requirement, albeit with good reason to.
Should you upgrade to Windows 11?
Now that Windows 11 is out, and it's a free upgrade, many people will be hurry to download it and try it out. But should you upgrade to Windows 11?
Microsoft is aware of most of these issues and is working on fixes. That means by holding off from installing Windows 11 for a while, you'll provide Microsoft a chance to release updates to fix those problems. Then, when you do finally install Windows 11 in a few week's or month's time, things should run much smoother.
There are improvements across the board in Windows 11, with Microsoft promising that updates will be 40% smaller, and touting Windows 11 as "the most secure release yet".
The taskbar is optimized for touch as well as mouse peripherals, and is now renamed the dock.
New multitasking features are also on offer thanks to a feature called Snap Layouts, which enables you to arrange multiple windows across the screen, not just side by side, but in columns, sections and more.
Windows 11 checker
There's now a much-improved health check app found in Settings, where Windows 11 will recommend you to turn down the brightness for example, change the power saving mode of the battery and much more.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Another feature is Snap Groups, where you can go back to previously snapped windows from the dock, so for example you can go to your email app, Edge browser windows or anything else without having to snap them back to the previous view again.
There's also improved multi-monitor support, so when you reconnect an external monitor, Windows 11 remembers the previous positions of the windows that were on that monitor.
There's even an estimated installation time for Windows Update, so you can see whether you need to hold off from updating your PC until later in the day.
Teams is also integrated to the dock, so you can easily join in with meetings and family calls. This looks like the first inkling of Skype disappearing from Windows, especially with the Skype sounds being heard in the demo when a call was incoming.
(Image credit: Microsoft)
The Microsoft Store is finally seeing a redesign, with better-curated content, and a better options for managing your purchased shows, such as mirroring them to your television. Apps such as Disney+, Adobe Creative Cloud, Pinterest and more are already in this redesigned store for Windows 11, ready to go.
WPA, EWP and Win32 apps are now all in the Microsoft Store, ready to go. If a developer has a commerce engine, they can keep 100% of the revenue brought from the Microsoft Store.
Android apps are also ready for Windows 11, discoverable from the Microsoft Store, via the Amazon App Store, so you can download TikTok and more, ready to use on your PC or tablet.
We suspect that the reason why Amazon are allowing their version of the store instead of Google, may be to do with the .APK filename being replaced from August.
The new store opens up possibilities for other applications to arrive in Windows 11, even Apple's iMessage, which could follow iTunes and Safari.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Windows 11 Home vs Windows 11 Pro
Depending on what you currently use your system for, you may need to consider if you will be upgrading to standard Home version of Windows 11, or if you need to bump up to Windows 11 Pro, Microsoft's enterprise version of the operating system. Regardless of what your preference may be, both have the same minimum system requirements so you'll need to meet those standards regardless of what version you side with.
There are numerous benefits to Windows 11 Pro, though mostly security related to protect businesses and organizations to keep data safe, with features like Windows Information Protection (abbreviated to WIP).
Another difference you'll see between Windows 11 Home and Pro is when youâre setting it up for the first time, as with the Home version you'll need to set it up with an internet connection and a Microsoft account.Â
Windows 11 doesn't have either of these restrictions, which may tempt some non-enterprise users into buying the Pro version of the operating system to avoid using a Microsoft account. Windows 11 Home PCs also canât be joined to Active Directory, which are often used on business devices to control access to certain applications and resources.
Fluent Design is the new name for the look of Windows 11. Across the board everything looks more modern and fresh, with rounded windows and apps such as Snipping Tool seeing huge improvements in years.
One of the biggest changes users will notice is that the Start menu has been moved to the center of the screen â and it's now "cloud powered", so it dynamically changes depending on the time of day, and the content you're working with.
Windows Widgets are back in Windows 11, accessible via the dock, with Microsoft touting AI-powered dynamic features that enable widgets, as with the Start menu, to change depending on the apps you're using and the time of day. On the touchscreen, you can slide from the left on the desktop to have widgets appear.
There are plenty to choose from, such as the weather, Bing maps, news, and more.
These will be available for third-parties as well, so you may see as many widgets available to pick as there are on Apple's iOS and iPadOS operating systems.
Many apps are being redesigned for Windows 11, such as the Photos, Snipping Tool and Paint apps, bringing them in line with the Fluent Design language.
(Image credit: Microsoft)
Gaming on Windows 11
Gaming will be a much bigger focus in Windows 11, with the sluggish and frustrating-to-use Windows 10 Xbox app replaced by a new Game Pass app that enables you to buy, manage and remove games, making it easier for you to access and download games, from Doom Eternal to â soon â Halo Infinite.
HDR will also be supported on compatible machines, offering improved lighting and contrast for gaming and viewing media. Direct Storage is also here, with the main game assets able to be downloaded and installed, enabling you to play your games even faster than before.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Improved Wi-Fi in Windows 11
It looks like Windows 11 could come with a decent upgrade to your device's Wi-Fi capabilities, as Qualcomm announced it has worked with Microsoft, along with other laptop makers and even Valve, to bring Wi-Fi Dual Station with Qualcomm 4-stream DBS technology to compatible machines.
We explain more about how this will boost Wi-Fi in Windows 11, but it looks like it will be particularly useful for gamers, as it will use multiple Wi-Fi bands at once to help reduce latency. This could be a killer feature for Windows 11.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Windows 11 Touch improvements
Tablet mode has been one of Windows' weaker points ever since Windows 8, and the new tablet features that Microsoft showed off for Windows 11 could be key to the operating system's fortunes, especially with future Surface products in the pipeline from Microsoft â to have a new, numbered operating system for its upcoming tablets could be a big selling point for new users.
At the event, Microsoft touted bigger touch targets and easier ways to move windows around, and better rotate optimizations, for example in how windows are rearranged, so you don't lose track of the applications you were using.
Gestures used with the trackpad of the Surface models are also coming to the touchscreen, bringing in some familiarity here. Haptics is also coming to Windows 11 when you use a stylus for better feedback when drawing or sketching.
The touch keyboard has also been redesigned, with a smaller keyboard just for your thumb, and emojis ready to be used. Microsoft says dictation will also be improved, alongside voice commands, with 'delete that' options and more.Â
(Image credit: Microsoft)
Add a personalized touch to Windows 11
Microsoft has certainly given Windows 11 a more modern look than what we saw in Windows 10, but there's always the risk that it might not be to your taste. No need to worry though, as it takes very little time and effort â and, pleasingly, no money! â to inject some personality into Windows 11, customizing the look of the operating system in various ways to make it your own.
Perhaps the easiest way to completely change the look of Windows 11 is to apply a new theme, and there are a good handful of options already available for you to try out, but if the ones that come with the OS don't suit you, you can download more from the Microsoft Store.
There are also familiar customizations such as setting a personal desktop background as either a static image or a slideshow, and you can tweak system color options â including dark mode. You can even make adjustments to the taskbar if you like, so your finalized Windows 11 doesn't need to look anything like the out-of-box version of the OS.
(Image credit: Microsoft)
Are there issues with Windows 11?
No new operating system will have a completely flawless launch, so despite being in beta through the Windows Insider Program, a few issues have already popped up. Thankfully the ones discovered so far are nothing serious and some of them are only appearing for a few users so if you wanted to start downloading the OS on launch day, don't let this stop you.
The biggest problem on Microsoftâs status page for Windows 11 listing known issues is compatibility problems with Intel Killer network drivers which is causing websites and video streams to be slow and sluggish. A memory leak issue has also been reported on Reddit, with at least some folks are finding that when they close an instance of File Explorer, it isnât releasing the RAM it used.
If you tuned into Microsoft's Surface event on September 22 then you might already have seen that Windows 11 will be pre-installed onto the Surface Pro 8, Surface Go 3, and the Surface Laptop Studio. This isn't surprising as all these products have been released on the same date that Windows 11 became available for public download so Microsoft will want to push its latest operating system.
If the Microsoft Surface family of products isn't your style though, other brands like Dell, Asus and HP have all released pages online that specify what devices are Windows 11 ready. Note that many won't come with the new operating system installed, but as they all meet the minimum system requirements, you can simply buy the laptop or 2-in-1 as normal and then update it yourself.Â
(Image credit: Future)
Microsoft claims Windows 11 is a "new era for the PC"
It's worth remembering that Windows 11 is the first major upgrade to the software platform since the launch of Windows 10 back in July 2015, and so marks a crucial point for Microsoft.
Heralding its new offering as "an exciting milestone in the history of Windows", Panos Panay, Microsoft's Chief Product Officer for Windows and Devices noted that, "a new era for the PC begins today".
In a company blog post, Panay added that "there's never been a better time to buy a PC", and that, "whether itâs to work, create, connect, learn or play, the PC will continue to play a relevant and lasting role in our lives. No other ecosystem has the breadth and scale that the Windows ecosystem does to meet the needs of people whether theyâre creators, developers, students and educators, business and gamers at every price point and in every form factor."
(Image credit: Microsoft)
Should you install Windows 11?
As the saying goes, good things come to those who wait. While it may be tempting to give Windows 11 a try straight away, we recommend holding on a few days, or even weeks, before you grab the new operating system.
Why? After all, our Windows 11 review is pretty glowing, and it brings plenty of new features that many people will be hurry to try out.
However, every major operating system launch comes with its fair share of issues, as we've mentioned above, so getting the very best experience might require letting other people do the early testing for you. Microsoft will be working hard to identify and fix problems as they occur, which is why itâs a good idea to hold fire for a few days or weeks. Let other people encounter those problems first, then in a few weeks, download Windows 11 safe in the knowledge that most problems will be fixed.
This is especially important if you were planning to install it onto a PC that you use daily, such as for work or study. If itâs working fine with Windows 10, itâs best to hold off for the moment. Otherwise, you may find that Windows 11 has messed a few things up, and youâre stuck with a PC thatâs not working correctly.
(Image credit: Future)
How to spot fake Windows 11 downloads
Windows 11 is out now, and it's relatively easy to download and install it, but this does mean that you should be vigilant about where you download Windows 11 from, as there are fake downloads out there that could catch you out.
Cloud gaming platform Shadow has told its users that they shouldnât try to install the Windows 11 upgrade for Windows 10 just yet â advice that could be well heeded by all PC gamers, who should at least have caution at the forefront of their minds.
With Windows 11 being previously available to the public as a beta via the Windows Insider Program, Â It's possible that bugs have been detected as Shadow asserts that it isnât ready for cloud PC installations in an email to subscribers.
The email states: âToday, Microsoft will officially launch Windows 11. Its release will be gradual, with potential bugs and issues early on. With this in mind, we will monitor the initial performances of Windows 11 before taking any action.
âThis will allow us to ensure strong performances and an overall high quality of service when we do make the eventual transition to Windows 11. Please do not update your Shadow to Windows 11 until further notice.â
The email concludes by letting subscribers know that theyâll be told when Windows 11 is ready to go on their cloud PC installation, and in the meantime, the Shadow team will continue to run tests on the OS to ensure suitability and that the service is âfully optimizedâ for Windows 11.
This is only a single provider, but if you use Cloud Gaming services then you may need to ask around for other experiences using Windows 11 before you provide it a try yourself.
(Image credit: Microsoft)
How to manage notifications in Windows 11
You almost certainly have a selection of apps installed on your computer, and many of these use notifications to let you know about things. A news app can alert you to the latest headlines, an email app will let you know when you have new mail, and your chat app will inform you of new messages that need your attention.Â
Thankfully, you can set all this up in Windows 11 with relative ease, or turn them off completely if you don't like the interruption. If you're happy with the current Windows 10 experience (in which notifications are displayed in the lower right-hand corner of the screen, just above the clock in the Taskbar) then great news â you won't have to do any configuration as this is the default for Microsoft's latest OS.
Microsoft has always given Windows users a good deal of control over how their computer uses power, and this is something that continues with Windows 11.Â
While managing power consumption may be something that you most readily associate with laptops and a desire to maximize battery life, power options can also play an important role for desktop users.
Do you ever get distracted when you should be doing something important? Your computer is supposed to be a tool to help you get things done. This might mean getting on with work, playing games, watching movies, writing emails, or just browsing the web, but there are all manner of distractions that can pull you away from what you're trying to do.Â
If you're sick of being pestered by notifications when you're trying to do something else, you could benefit from Windows 11's Focus assist feature. This is a simple but powerful function of Windows 11 that enables you to configure rules that determine when notifications about new emails, messages and so on are muted.
There are many customization options that let you do things like set a schedule, create priority lists and you can even optimize for different monitors if you use multiple displays.Â
(Image credit: Microsoft)
How to use virtual desktops in Windows 11
Windows 11 offers excellent support for virtual desktops, which allow you to use several desktops, and switch between them easily. This allows you to keep organised  by having separate desktops for work and pleasure, for example.
It's a great way to have some of the productivity benefits of multiple monitors, but with a single screen, so check out our guide on how to use virtual desktops in Windows 11 for an in-depth look into this feature.
Tue, 23 May 2023 02:30:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://www.techradar.com/news/windows-11-home-and-proThe complete window guide 2023
uPVC framed windows
uPVC window frames, made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, are popular due to their low-maintenance requirements. Theyâre often less expensive than timber or aluminium options, but prices vary depending on size, design, glazing type, and installation costs.
When it comes to maintenance, uPVC requires very little. They can be kept clean with a simple wipe-down a couple of times a year and have an average lifespan of between 25 and 30 years, although some higher-quality options can last up to 35 years or longer.
uPVC frames have excellent thermal properties, which keep the heat in during winter and out during summer, and contribute to energy efficiency in the home. They also provide impressive sound insulation, reducing noise from outside, making them particularly beneficial in noisy, urban areas.
uPVC window frames are also an excellent choice for security. They often incorporate multi-locking systems, providing a high level of security for homes.Â
Aesthetically, uPVC window frames offer a clean, modern look. Although usually white, they can be produced in other colours or finishes to match different architectural styles.Â
From an environmental perspective, uPVC window frames present a mixed picture. On one hand, their excellent insulating properties can contribute to reducing energy use and carbon emissions. They are also recyclable, which can help reduce landfill waste. However, they are made from non-renewable petroleum products, and not all regions have the necessary facilities to recycle uPVC. So, while they have certain environmental benefits, there are also considerations around their production and end-of-life disposal.
Overall, uPVC window frames offer a combination of low maintenance, good insulation, security, and aesthetic flexibility. However, their environmental impact is a complex issue that requires careful consideration.
Aluminium windows
Aluminium windows are known for their strength, durability, and modern aesthetic appeal. They are very strong, which allows for thinner frames and a larger area of glass, thereby providing more natural light inside the building.Â
One of the significant benefits of aluminium windows is their longevity. They are rust-resistant, do not warp or flex under normal conditions, and can last as long as 45 years or more.Â
Aluminium windows also require very little maintenance. They do not need painting or staining like wooden frames, just occasional cleaning to keep them looking their best.
However, aluminium frames have some disadvantages. One of the main drawbacks is their thermal performance. Aluminium is a good conductor of heat, which lets heat in during the summer and allows heat to escape during the winter. Modern aluminium windows often incorporate a âthermal breakâ in the frame â a layer of insulating material placed between the inside and outside of the frame to Strengthen insulation.
In terms of cost, aluminium windows are generally cheaper than wooden options but more expensive than uPVC, so they may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.
From an aesthetic perspective, while aluminium windows offer a sleek, modern look, they may not suit traditional-style homes. Many manufacturers offer different colours and finishes, which can provide an individualistic appeal to the exterior of your home.Â
Regarding their environmental impact, aluminium windows can be recycled, making them a relatively eco-friendly choice. However, the extraction and production of aluminium can be energy-intensive. Itâs important to check whether recycled materials have been used in the production of the windows.
Timber windows
Timber windows have a classic and timeless appeal that suits a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional homes to ultra-modern designs. The natural aesthetic of wood adds warmth and character to a building, and it can be painted or stained to match the homeâs decor.
One of the major advantages of timber windows is their excellent insulation properties. Wood is a natural insulator, meaning timber windows can help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.Â
Timber windows can also be incredibly durable if they are correctly maintained. High-quality timber windows that are well looked after can last upwards of 60 years â think about the hardwood windows still seen in old cottages after more than 100 years.
However, timber windows do come with several disadvantages; namely, they have a high maintenance level. Wood can be susceptible to rot, warping and insect damage. To keep timber windows in good condition, they must be regularly painted or stained to protect the wood from the elements.
Concerning cost, timber windows are generally more expensive than uPVC or aluminium windows. The exact cost can depend on the type of wood used and the quality of the windows.
Composite windows
Composite windows combine different materials to offer enhanced performance and durability. Typically, composite frames are composed of a combination of materials such as wood and uPVC or aluminium, often with the wood on the interior, with the more robust material on the outside. Â
Using multiple materials allows for the advantages of each material to be utilised. For example, the presence of wood can provide a natural and attractive appearance, while the addition of uPVC or aluminium offers durability, weather resistance and low maintenance
Choosing the right style of window for your home depends on a variety of factors, including the architectural style of your home, the purpose of the window, your budget and your personal preferences.
Casement windows
Casement windows are attached to their frame by one or more hinges. They typically hinge at the side and open outward, much like a door, although some designs are top or bottom hung. The opening mechanism usually involves a crank or lever, which makes them easy to operate, even in hard-to-reach areas, such as over a kitchen sink.
One of the main advantages of casement windows is their excellent ventilation. Because they open fully, breezes can be directed into the home, making them a great choice for areas where airflow is desired. However, opening outward can make casements less suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic outside, such as patios, paths, or decks.
Aesthetically, casement windows offer a clean, modern look and can be customised to fit the style of almost any home.Â
Bay windows
Bay windows protrude outward from the main walls of a building, forming a recessed area inside the room. They typically combine three windows â a large picture window in the centre and two smaller casement windows at an angle on either side.
One of the main features of bay windows is that they can create additional space inside a room, as the protrusion can form a cosy alcove. This space can be used in various ways, such as a window seat or a spot for a small table.
Bay windows also allow a significant amount of natural light in from multiple directions, making a room feel brighter and more spacious. The angled placement of the windows also provides a wider view of the outdoors than a flat window.
Regarding aesthetics, bay windows can add architectural interest to a homeâs interior and exterior. They can suit a variety of home styles, from traditional to contemporary.
Sash windows
A sash window is a type of window that features one or more movable panels, called âsashesâ. These panels slide vertically or, less commonly, horizontally to open or close the window. This design is characteristic of many historical architectures, particularly from the Georgian and Victorian periods, and is appreciated for its timeless aesthetic and functional design.
Bow windows
A bow window is a curved, protruding window structure that extends from the wall of a building. Itâs similar to a bay but, instead of having three panels or sections, a bow window usually has four or more to create a rounded appearance. The design allows more light to enter the room and provides more expansive views of the outdoors.Â
Bow windows can also add extra interior space that can be used for seating, storage, or as a display area. They contribute to a homeâs interior and exterior aesthetics, often creating a visually striking architectural feature.
Tilt and turn windows
Tilt and turn windows are opened in two ways, hence their name. When the handle of the window is turned 90 degrees, the window swings open inward, like a door. This full opening allows for maximum ventilation and easy cleaning of the outer pane. It can also serve as an emergency exit. However, turn the handle a further 90 degrees, so it is upside down, and the window tilts inwards at an angle from the top. This function provides ventilation with a level of security, as the opening is too small for a person to pass through, and also prevents rain from coming in.
Velux windows
Velux is a brand name synonymous with a specific type of roof window or skylight.Â
Velux windows are typically installed in line with the roofâs slope rather than vertically like traditional windows. They are designed to allow natural light and ventilation into spaces that might otherwise be dark or poorly ventilated, such as attics or loft conversions. Velux windows come in various styles, including centre-pivot, and top-hung, and often include features like built-in blinds.
Dormer windows
Dormer windows are set vertically on a sloping roof. They project from the roof, creating additional headroom and usable space inside the building, typically in an upper-level room or attic.
These windows come in several shapes and styles, including gable, hipped, and eyebrow dormers. Each has a different aesthetic appeal and might be more suitable for certain types of architecture.
French windows
French windows consist of two panels or sashes hinged on the sides and swing open like a door. They typically open outward but can also open inward, depending on the specific design and preference.
French windows are known for their classic and elegant appearance and are commonly used to connect interior spaces with outdoor areas like balconies, patios or gardens. They provide a wide opening, allowing for easy access and creating a sense of openness between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Fri, 26 May 2023 08:04:00 -0500en-GBtext/htmlhttps://www.independent.co.uk/advisor/windows/windows-guideMicrosoft 365 Copilot: A Complete Guide + What It Can Do..
Microsoft 365 Copilot is coming and, lordy lord⊠does it sound impressive. Hereâs a detailed overview of Microsoftâs AI-powered Copilot and what it can do inside Microsoft 365âŠ
Just imagine having an AI-powered sidekick that seamlessly meshes with your Microsoft 365 suite, offering assistance at every twist and turn of your digital journey. Thatâd be cool, right? Well, thatâs EXACTLY what CoPilot will do.
What is Microsoft 365 Copilot?
Microsoft 365 Copilot is an innovative, AI-powered assistant thatâs on a mission to supercharge your Microsoft 365 experience. While still being fine-tuned, once it is released itâll be able handle an array of tasks across Microsoftâs entire suite of Microsoft 365 applications.
The ability of Copilot to pen emails, design presentations, and proofread documents, using ChatGPT 4, is designed to massively Strengthen productivity within teams and organizations, both large and small.
And Copilot wonât just offer suggestions for phrases or sentences, it is capable of drafting whole paragraphs, proposing complete slide sets, and recommending crucial changes to grammar, spelling, and style in your documents.
Even though Copilot is a work in progress, it promises a whole new horizon in professional productivity, invigorating creativity, and guaranteeing accuracy.
Hereâs a sneak peek into some of its game-changing capabilities
How Microsoft 365 Copilot Works & What It Can DoâŠ
Microsoft 365 Copilot Features
Seamless Integration With Microsoft 365
The most striking aspect of CoPilot is its seamless integration across the Microsoft 365 suite, from the word-processing capabilities of Word, the numerical wizardry of Excel, the presentation powerhouse PowerPoint, to the communication hub Teams and the unified communication tool Outlook.
CoPilot doesnât just exist within these apps; it thrives, readily accessible whenever you need it, subtly surfacing valuable insights and suggestions at the perfect moment.
To illustrate this, letâs envision youâre working on a large dataset in Excel. As you get lost in the numbers and statistics, CoPilot can effortlessly lend a helping hand, providing smart suggestions for formulae or summarizing key data trends that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.
In essence, itâs as if you have a knowledgeable colleague looking over your shoulder, ready to chime in when needed.
Whatâs more, the advent of Microsoftâs Business Chat feature brings this integration to a whole new level. It works as a round-the-clock assistant that can generate content based on your prompts, delivering value in real-time across the entire Microsoft suite.
Imagine drafting a company-wide memo or a persuasive email to a potential client; with Business Chat, CoPilot provides tailored suggestions that could tip the scales in your favor.
Improved Workflow Capabilities
CoPilot, despite its advanced AI capabilities, is not an autonomous tool. Rather, it works in harmony with your thought process, offering drafts and suggestions, while you wield ultimate control over the final output.
This dynamic symbiosis allows for an enhanced creative flow, analytical thinking, expressive capabilities, and the potential for improved collaboration across all Microsoft 365 apps.
Consider working on a pivotal PowerPoint presentation; CoPilot can help you fine-tune your message and delivery, suggesting engaging graphics, recommending accessible formats, or even helping you craft compelling speaker notes.
Yet, the final narrative always rests in your hands, allowing you to balance AI support with personal ingenuity.
Copilot Brings Huge Uplift In Productivity Across Entire Teams
By tackling the brunt of mundane tasks, CoPilot enables users to focus on more meaningful, strategic work. This shift in task management can lead to significant productivity gains and improved job satisfaction.
One particularly impactful use case is in handling lengthy email threads in Outlook. Instead of manually sifting through convoluted conversations, CoPilot can quickly summarize the main points, draft succinct replies, and free up precious hours that you can dedicate to more critical tasks.
These claims arenât just theoretical; theyâre backed by compelling GitHub data, revealing tangible improvements in productivity with CoPilot.
Create Custom âKnowledge Flowsâ With Your Companyâs Unique Data
CoPilot isnât limited to general AI assistance; it also leverages organizational data to create a robust knowledge model.
This model streamlines the flow of knowledge within your organization, making relevant information readily accessible. Imagine youâre new to a project, and you need to understand past discussions and decisions.
Instead of sifting through volumes of old emails or documents, CoPilot can utilize its knowledge model to surface critical information, helping you hit the ground running. This fosters a more collaborative environment and drives better decision-making.
Copilot Knows Microsoft 365 Apps Inside Out, You Can Ask It How To Do Anything
CoPilot serves as a tutor, guiding users in mastering new skills and enhancing existing ones within the Microsoft 365 realm.
By employing natural language prompts, this AI assistant demystifies the vast functionality of Microsoft 365, allowing anyone to do pretty much anything they can imagine inside apps like Excel and Word.
Whether youâre venturing into the world of advanced Excel formulas or striving to master your PowerPoint presentation skills, CoPilot is your AI-powered oracle, ever ready to provide meaningful suggestions and guidance every step of the way.
Enterprise-Ready AI That Keeps Your Data Secure
In an era where security, compliance, and privacy take center stage, Microsoftâs CoPilot stands out for adhering to the highest standards.
By harnessing the power of Language Learning Models (LLMs), including the advanced GPT-4 model, and combining it with Microsoft 365 apps and business data, CoPilot is designed to serve enterprise users with an emphasis on data security as well as compliance with current (and incoming) regulations.
Copilot is Adaptive And It Learns About Your Company As You Use It
CoPilotâs versatility and learning ability make it invaluable across a plethora of tasks. For instance, when integrated with Viva Sales, CoPilot can connect to CRM systems, pulling customer data and providing valuable insights that can supercharge your sales strategies.
This adaptive learning ensures Copilot remains not just a tool but an evolving digital ally that will learn not only about your businessâ workflow but also your team, their specific roles, and how to extract as much possible productivity from every facet of your organization.
Copilot Is Built To Adhere To The Responsible AI Standard
Microsoftâs commitment to responsible AI development is evident in CoPilot. Adhering to strict AI principles and the Responsible AI Standard, CoPilot is designed to be transparent, fair, and respectful of user data and privacy.
At Microsoft, we are guided by our AI principles and Responsible AI Standard and decades of research on AI, grounding and privacy-preserving machine learning. A multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers and policy experts reviews our AI systems for potential harms and mitigations â refining training data, filtering to limit harmful content, query- and result-blocking sensitive topics, and applying Microsoft technologies like InterpretML and Fairlearn to help detect and correct data bias. We make it clear how the system makes decisions by noting limitations, linking to sources, and prompting users to review, fact-check and adjust content based on subject-matter expertise.
Microsoft
Microsoft 365 CoPilot Release Date â When Can You Get It?
Microsoft envisions a future where CoPilot is an integral part of all Microsoft productivity apps. Itâs currently being tested with a select group of customers, but plans are underway to expand its reach.
Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Viva, Power Platform â all these and more will soon have CoPilot baked in, adding a plethora of new productivity and collaboration options.
In a nutshell, CoPilot is set to reshape the way we work and collaborate, seamlessly blending AI capabilities with the power of Microsoft 365. And I cannot wait to try it out. Perhaps Copilot will be the catalyst that finally drags me away from Google Workspace?
Copilot will start rolling out to Microsoft 365 users at some point during 2023; it is currently in beta testing with 20 or some of Microsoftâs clients. Not using Microsoft 365? Check out all the deals and plans here.
Richard Goodwin
Richard Goodwin has been working as a tech journalist for over 10 years. He is the editor and owner of KnowYourMobile.
Tue, 23 May 2023 20:58:00 -0500en-GBtext/htmlhttps://www.knowyourmobile.com/ai/microsoft-365-copilot/Microsoft's Security Update Guide To Report on CBL-Mariner Linux Vulnerabilities
Microsoft's Security Update Guide, which chronicles Microsoft's patch releases each month, is getting two relatively new additions.
First off, the Security Update Guide will soon list common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVEs) for Microsoft's CBL-Mariner Linux distribution, per a Friday announcement. CBL-Mariner is Microsoft's Linux-based operating system that's widely used with various Azure services.
The coming CBL-Mariner vulnerability disclosures are expected to bulk up the amount of CVEs published by Microsoft, although the CVEs actually derive from various open source software projects.
"CBL-Mariner is built from a number of upstream open-source projects, so the majority of CBL-Mariner CVEs are authored and published by other organizations, also known as CVE Numbering Authority (CNA)," the announcement explained.
Second, Microsoft last month started displaying security updates in the Security Update Guide in association with its Hotpatch service fixes, as described in a late-December announcement. Per this new approach, the Security Hotpatch Update and its associated Security Update appear together in the same row. The two entries get labeled with slightly different Knowledge Base article numbers, though, it seems.
Hotpatch is an Azure Automanage capability that helps automate virtual machine management tasks without reboots because the patching occurs in memory. Patched applications are said to run without interruptions. Hotpatch, commercially released last year, is available for users of the Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition product.
In general, Microsoft has been making subtle improvements to its Security Update Guide since a general revamp that was done a couple of years ago. The guide was said back then to have gotten more succinct wording. Microsoft of late seems to be including more Azure-specific CVEs in it as well.
Today, the Microsoft Security Update Guide is mostly a 100-page-plus generic boilerplate compendium that's published every "update Tuesday" (the second Tuesday of a month). Its listings are often insufficient for security professionals and others to understand the software flaws involved, but Microsoft does limit the descriptions -- for security reasons.
About the Author
Kurt Mackie is senior news producer for 1105 Media's Converge360 group.
Wed, 31 May 2023 12:01:00 -0500en-UStext/htmlhttps://redmondmag.com/articles/2023/01/06/microsoft-security-update-guide-to-report-on-cbl-mariner--linux-vulnerabilities.aspxWindows 11 requirements: Microsoft says there's no getting around ⊠â Tom's Guide
