Category: Computers

I’ve had three calls & a couple of messages about this very topic today. It’s only just after 1pm at time of writing!

Thinking about giving your old laptop or desktop a new lease on life with Windows 11? It’s possible—but with a few important caveats.

System Requirements Matter

Windows 11 has stricter “OFFICIAL” hardware requirements than previous versions. At minimum, it requires:

A 1GHz or faster processor with 2 or more cores (64-bit) (We Recommend: Intel i5+ or AMD Ryzen 5+)

4GB of RAM (We Recommend: 8gb min, preferred 12-16gb+)

64GB of storage (We Recommend: SSD not older mechanical drives, 128gb absolute min, preferred 240gb+)

UEFI firmware with Secure Boot

TPM version 2.0

A DirectX 12-compatible graphics card

For many older pc’s — especially those made before 2017—the TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot requirements can be deal breakers. If your device doesn’t meet these, Windows 11 will not install the official way.

Workarounds Exist

Microsoft allows a workaround for unsupported hardware. Though it’s not recommended for basic users, you can create a bootable USB using tools like Rufus. Alternatively, you can modify the installation media to skip TPM and CPU checks. But be aware: running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware MAY prevent updates and lead to stability or security issues. However, this has never been seen in previous versions of Windows. It is easily mitigated by using a DECENT anti-virus program to look after your interests.

Should You Upgrade?

If your old laptop meets the specs—or you’re tech-savvy and want to experiment—it can be a worthwhile upgrade. Otherwise, you might consider sticking with Windows 10 (OFFICIALLY supported until October 2025). In reality, it is perfectly safe for the average user for at least another 3-4 years, with good security in place.

Bottom Line

Yes, you can put Windows 11 on an old computer. However, whether you should depends on your device’s specs, your comfort with tech, and what you expect from the upgrade.
Please don’t let the scaremonger tactics & misinformation force you into a possibly unnecessary purchase. Creating more tech e-waste/landfill for a perfectly viable & sustainable machine is avoidable.
If you want to get your machine checked out for upgradeability, give us a shout. Alternatively, bring your computer in for a FREE diagnosis & honest opinion.

For more computer services, pop in to see us at Frolic House ( between Newtown Medical Practice and Driving Test Centre ) | Call 01686 610 106 | Message 0783 222 7823

Business Cards, more Menu’s & Broken Windows 11

Had a couple of calls about folks not being able to make a shortcut as easily in Windows 11 as it was in 10 or 7.
Now that a lot of “Apps” are being delivered via Microsoft Store, the old “Right Click” and send shortcut to desktop does not work for these and other built-in Windows apps. Some you can still use the right click option of “Open File Location”. With this, you can make a shortcut from there. However, that option is also being phased out. This leaves us shortcut junkies without a desktop full of icons!

There’s a couple of easy ways to access the main Applications folder in 11, where everything is hiding.
Open “File Explorer”, “Computer” or any folder on your pc and type shell:AppsFolder in the address bar & hit enter.

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Or…
Hold down the Windows key+R then type shell:AppsFolder into the Run window and click Ok. Then you will be able to make a shortcut for any program on your PC.

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How to Create a Shell:AppsFolder Shortcut :

You can also create a Shell:AppsFolder shortcut to easily open the Applications folder to view all apps on your Windows 10/11 computer.
Right-click on the Desktop and select New -> Shortcut.
In the Create Shortcut window, type Explorer Shell:AppsFolder and click Next.
Type a name for the shortcut like Apps or Applications and click Finish. This will create a shortcut for the Windows Applications folder.
Then you can double-click on the new shortcut to open the Applications folder to view all apps in your system.

For more computer services, pop in to see us at Frolic House ( between Newtown Medical Practice and Newtown Driving Test Centre )| Call 01686 610 106 | Message 0783 222 7823

⏰Preparing for Windows 10 End of Life⚰️

As our lives become more digital, our computers (Yep, Mac’s Too) are prime targets for malicious software. Investing in a professional virus removal service is a smart move. Here’s why:

Protect Your Data and Privacy

Viruses can steal passwords, financial info, and personal files. We detect and eliminate these threats, keeping your data safe from harmful viruses.

Boost System Performance

Malware can slow your Computer, cause crashes, and disrupt functionality. Professional virus removal restores speed and reliability, ensuring your system is virus-free.

Prevent Future Infections

Our service can include protective software and guidance on safe browsing, reducing your risk of future attacks and helping maintain a virus-free environment.

Save Time and Money

DIY removal is risky and time-consuming. At Bluesdigital, we handle those pesky troublemakers efficiently, providing virus removal that saves you time and money.

Peace of Mind

With your Computer running smoothly and safely, thanks to effective virus removal, you can kick back and chill a little more.

We love helping to keep you safe!

Do you need reliable computer repair in Newtown?

Pop in to see us at Frolic House ( between Newtown Medical Practice and Newtown Driving Test Centre ) | Call 01686 610 106 | Message 0783 222 7823

Printing Documents, Menus & Photos, and Virus Removal -Done!

Fancy some serious gaming power at a VERY reasonable price, backed by the infamous Bluesdigital 12 Month Warranty?? A refurbished Ryzen 5 gaming PC might just be what you’re looking for.

This Ryzen 5 Based little black box should tick all the boxes from just £400.

Originally built by us, with top spec components, as usual!

Tech info:
Ryzen 5 2600 cpu
16Gb 2933MHz Corsair DDR4 ram
Crucial P3 1Tb NVMe SSD
Corsair VS650 psu
MSi B450M Pro-M2 mobo
Thermaltake Versa H15 window M-ATX case
Windows 11 Home

With GTX 1050 Ti £400 or With GTX 1660 Super gfx card £500

For more computer services, pop in to see us at Frolic House ( between Newtown Medical Practice and Newtown Driving Test Centre ) | Call 01686 610 106 | Message 0783 222 7823

♻️Recycle & Refurbish♻️

We are excited to be introducing Bluesdigital Workshop as a place where we create truly unique custom computer cases. We’re not just building cases; we’re crafting items that blend nostalgia and nature into functional art. Whether it’s repurposing parts from an old favorite car or bike, or using natural materials like wood and stone, we create pieces that are both personal and extraordinary.

If this idea sparks your interest, we’d love to hear from you.

Anyone who knows me is fully aware of my admiration for Malwarebytes Premium as a top-notch system defence in this wild world.

If you fancy a full 1-Year License for free, why not give my little quiz a go? You’ll receive a brand new license that you can activate at any time (even if you already have coverage) and be protected by one of the best security products on the market.

How to Enter:
Answer the following questions and send your responses to:

📧 shop@bluesdigital.com

📱 0783 222 7823

First correct answer wins.
Good luck, and may the best quizzer win!

General Knowledge:
    What is the capital of France?
        A) Berlin
        B) Madrid
        C) Paris
        D) Rome

Technology:
    Which company developed the Windows operating system?
        A) Apple
        B) Microsoft
        C) Google
        D) IBM

Cybersecurity:
    What does the acronym "VPN" stand for?
        A) Virtual Private Network
        B) Virtual Public Network
        C) Verified Private Network
        D) Variable Public Network

Antivirus Knowledge:
    What is the primary purpose of antivirus software?
        A) To speed up your computer
        B) To protect against malware
        C) To manage files
        D) To enhance graphics

Fun Fact:
    Which of the following is a common type of malware?
        A) Virus
        B) Spreadsheet
        C) Document
        D) Presentation

🖥️Urgent Microsoft Patch/Update 💉