How to Create Compressed Folders and Archives in Windows 11 (Including 7-Zip and TAR Files)

How to Create Compressed Folders and Archives in Windows 11 (Including 7-Zip and TAR Files) 

Windows 11 now supports ZIP, TAR, 7-Zip, and other archive formats natively, no third-party software required. Learn how to compress files using built-in tools and advanced options like 7-Zip, plus discover real-world use cases, pros and cons, and expert tips to streamline your workflow.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 30, 2025

Ever tried emailing a folder only to be blocked by size limits or file types? 

Or maybe you’ve downloaded a .TAR file and wondered why Windows just stared blankly at it. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Windows 11 to Compress and Unpack Archive Formats.

Windows now understands a wide range of archive formats.

Whether you're zipping up a project or unpacking a mystery file, compression just got easier—and smarter.

How to Set Up iCloud on Windows

How to Set Up iCloud on Windows

Finally, you can access your iCloud files, photos, contacts, and even passwords from your Windows PC.  Here’s how to set up iCloud for Windows for a seamless synced access to iCloud content.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

July 23, 2025

Ever feel like your PC is the odd one out in your Apple ecosystem? 

You snap a photo on your iPhone and still have to dig through email or upload it manually to your Windows computer. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Connect iCloud to Windows.

With iCloud for Windows, everything, photos, documents, contacts, becomes instantly available in File Explorer. It's like training a cat to fetch: surprising at first, but you won’t know how you lived without it.

What You'll Gain

• Universal photo access: view iPhone pictures on your PC without cables.
• Password autofill: use your iCloud passwords in Chrome or Edge browsers.
• File collaboration: share and organize iCloud Drive files seamlessly.

Skip the USB: How Windows Nearby Sharing Streamlines File Transfers

Skip the USB: How Windows Nearby Sharing Streamlines File Transfers

Share files, links, and photos instantly between Windows devices with no cables, cloud uploads, or email attachments required.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

July 16, 2025

Ever emailed yourself a file just to move it across the room?

If so, you're not alone. 

Despite all our tech, file sharing between nearby devices still feels clunky. 

USB drives, cloud uploads, email attachments, all work, but they’re slow, messy, and often overkill. 

Here's a Cool Tip: Windows Nearby Sharing.

Windows Nearby Sharing is a built-in feature that quietly solves this problem with surprising elegance.

Think of it as Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s AirDrop, except it’s baked into Windows 10 and 11, and it works over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. 

No pairing. No passwords. Just click, share, and go.

Markdown Comes to Notepad

Markdown Comes to Notepad

Microsoft has quietly added Markdown support to Windows 11’s Notepad app and it’s much more than a cosmetic upgrade. This deceptively simple addition brings formatting tools, live previews, and enhanced functionality for writers, developers, and everyday users.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 9, 2025

What if your most overlooked app suddenly became your most powerful? 

That’s exactly what’s happening with Notepad, the no-frills text editor that’s been tucked into Windows since 1985. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad.

Notepad just got a jolt of modernity with native Markdown support, and for anyone who writes, formats, or takes notes, this update is worth a closer look.

Most of us know Markdown as the whisper-light formatting language used on GitHub, Reddit, and countless blogs. 

But with Microsoft’s newest update to Notepad in Windows 11, Markdown gets its own toolbar, live preview, and a faster workflow—without needing plugins or third-party editors.

Microsoft Says Goodbye to the Blue Screen of Death

Microsoft Says Goodbye to the Blue Screen of Death

Microsoft is retiring its iconic Blue Screen of Death and replacing it with a black crash screen in Windows 11, promising a more modern look but raising questions for IT pros. Here’s what you need to know.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 2, 2025

Picture this: It’s 3 a.m. and you’re on a deadline. 

Suddenly, your screen turns blue, your stomach drops, and your heart pounds. 

The dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). 

If you’ve worked in tech for more than five minutes, you’ve seen it and probably learned to fear it. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Microsoft is retiring the Blue Screen of Death.

Microsoft is pulling the plug on this iconic error screen, swapping its familiar blue for a modern black. 

Is this change cosmetic or a sign of something deeper?

Free Windows 10 Security Updates Through 2026? Yes, But With a Catch.

Free Windows 10 Security Updates Through 2026? Yes, But With a Catch.

Microsoft just gave Windows 10 users a lifeline: one extra year of free security updates, extending support into 2026. But there’s a twist—only certain users qualify, and it’s not quite the free lunch it sounds like.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 25, 2025

Still on Windows 10? 

Microsoft Isn’t Done With You… Yet

Let’s be honest—Windows 10 has aged well. 

It’s familiar, stable, and still runs on over half of all Windows PCs. 

But with official support ending on October 14, 2025, many users were bracing for the upgrade hammer. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Microsoft has extended the deadline.

You can get one more year of free critical security updates—until October 13, 2026.

The catch? 

You’ll need to opt into Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program—and that means jumping through a few hoops.

Boost Your Browsing: How Microsoft Edge’s New 'Copilot Mode' Levels Up Your Productivity

Boost Your Browsing: How Microsoft Edge’s New 'Copilot Mode' Levels Up Your Productivity

Edge is transforming its new‑tab page into a smart command center—here’s how Copilot Mode helps busy professionals search, chat, and accelerate your workflow.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 18, 2025

Ever opened a new tab and wished you could ask for help right away, without typing a search or navigating menus? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the New Microsoft Edge Copilot Mode.

Microsoft is rolling out a "Copilot Mode" toggle in Edge’s new‑tab experience, replacing the usual clutter, news feeds, widgets with a clean prompt: "How can I help today?" 

This invites you to Search and Chat, launching your query into Copilot’s AI for instant, contextual responses with no extra typing, no tabs, just answers.

Microsoft Family Safety: The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your Family Online

Microsoft Family Safety: The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your Family Online

Want to keep your family safe online while encouraging healthy digital habits? Microsoft Family Safety offers robust parental controls, screen time management, and location tracking to help you create a secure and balanced digital environment.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 4, 2025

In today's hyper-connected world, managing screen time and online safety is more challenging than ever. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Microsoft Family Safety in Windows 11.

Whether you're a parent trying to set boundaries or a professional looking for digital wellness tools, Microsoft Family Safety provides a comprehensive solution.

What Is Microsoft Family Safety?

Microsoft Family Safety is a free tool that helps families manage screen time, filter inappropriate content, and track location. 

It works across Windows, Xbox, and mobile devices, ensuring a seamless experience for parents and kids alike.

What You'll Gain

• Set screen time limits for apps and devices 
• Filter inappropriate content and websites 
• Track family members' locations for peace of mind

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

On Microsoft Web/Desktop

1. Sign in to Microsoft Family Safety with your Microsoft account: www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/family-safety .
2. If you don’t have a Microsoft Family Group set up, create one to start managing family settings.

Navigate to "Screen Time" to set limits for devices and apps

1. Select the family member whose screen time you want to manage.
2. Set daily limits for Windows, Xbox, and Android devices linked to the account.
3. Customize schedules to allow screen time only during certain hours.
4. Enable "Always Ask" for extensions so kids need approval to use more time.

Use "Content Filters" to block inappropriate websites

1. Go to the “Content Filters” section.
2. Turn on the "Only allow age-appropriate content" setting.
3. Add specific websites to the blocked or allowed lists.
4. Activate SafeSearch to filter inappropriate content in web searches.

fig. 1 - Manage Your Family's Digital Life With Microsoft Family Safety

On iOS & Android

1. Download the Microsoft Family Safety app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Sign in and add family members.
3. Configure screen time, content filters, and location tracking.

Pros and Cons

Pros: 

• Easy-to-use interface 
• Works across multiple platforms 
• Helps build healthy digital habits

Cons: 

• Limited customization for advanced users 
• Requires Microsoft accounts for all family members

Feature Access

Available for Microsoft 365 users and the general public on Windows, Xbox, iOS, and Android.

Key Takeaways

Microsoft Family Safety is an essential tool for managing digital well-being. 

With screen time controls, content filtering, and location tracking, it helps families stay safe online.

Try It Yourself

Ready to take control of your family's digital habits? 

Try Microsoft Family Safety today and experience a safer, more balanced online environment.

READ MORE

• Notepad Gets a Brain: How Microsoft's AI-Powered Feature Supercharges Your Text Editing
  
• Hear Everything, Miss Nothing: Master Windows 11 Live Captions
  
• How to Master Symbols in Windows 11
  

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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Notepad Gets a Brain: How Microsoft's AI-Powered Feature Supercharges Your Text Editing

Notepad Gets a Brain: How Microsoft's AI-Powered Feature Supercharges Your Text Editing

Microsoft's classic Notepad app just got a major upgrade—AI now helps you rewrite and summarize text with ease. Here's how to make it work for you.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 28, 2025

Ever wished you could quickly rephrase a paragraph without opening another app? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Copilot AI in Windows Notepad.

Microsoft's latest AI integration into Notepad transforms the humble text editor into a smart writing assistant.

What Is the New AI Feature in Notepad?

Microsoft has introduced new AI-powered features in Notepad for Windows 11. 

This tool allows users to rewrite content and summarize lengthy passages—all within the Notepad application.

Hear Everything, Miss Nothing: Master Windows 11 Live Captions

Hear Everything, Miss Nothing: Master Windows 11 Live Captions

Windows 11's Live Captions feature brings real-time, on-device transcription to all audio sources, enhancing accessibility and productivity for users across various scenarios.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 7, 2025

Have you ever struggled to catch every word in a video, webinar, or live meeting? 

Or wished you could follow along with audio content in a noisy environment? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Windows 11 Live Captions.

Windows 11's Live Captions feature addresses these challenges by providing real-time, on-screen captions for any audio source on your PC. 

This tool is not just for those with hearing impairments; it's a game-changer for anyone seeking to enhance their comprehension and productivity.

What Are Windows 11 Live Captions?

How to Master Symbols in Windows 11

How to Master Symbols in Windows 11

Unlock the full potential of your Windows 11 keyboard with this expert guide to entering symbols. Learn how to access hidden characters, use shortcuts, and boost your productivity.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 23, 2025

Ever struggled to find the copyright symbol or an em-dash while typing? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use these tips to insert symbols.

Windows 11 brings a wealth of tools to simplify entering special characters and symbols. 

From quick shortcuts to easy-to-use panels, these features can save you time and add precision to your work. 

Ready to master them?

Exploring Windows 11 Symbol Tools

Windows 11 offers three key methods for inserting symbols: Alt codes, the Character Map, and the Emoji Panel. 

These tools cater to users ranging from professionals needing technical precision to casual users enhancing creativity. 

By streamlining access to symbols, Windows 11 empowers efficient workflows.

Here's How to Do It.

Method 1: Using Alt Codes

1. Ensure your keyboard has a numeric keypad.
2. Turn on the Num Lock key.
3. Hold down the Alt key while typing the corresponding four-digit code on the numeric keypad.
4. Example: To type the degree symbol (º), press Alt + 0176.

fig. 1 - Use ALT Codes to Insert Symbols in Windows 11

Method 2: Accessing the Character Map

1. Press Windows + S and search for "Character Map."
2. Open the Character Map application.
3. Choose your desired font, select a symbol, and click "Copy."
4. Paste the symbol into your document.

fig. 2 - Use Character Map to Insert Symbols in Windows 11

Method 3: Using the Emoji Panel

1. Press Windows + . (period) or Windows + ; (semicolon).
2. Browse through the symbols, emojis, and kaomoji.
3. Click on the desired symbol to insert it directly into your text.

fig. 3 - Use Emoji Panel to Insert Symbols in Windows 11

Pros and Cons

These intuitive tools simplify symbol insertion and work across most applications and devices.

However, Alt codes must be memorized and a Numeric keypad is required to use them.

Key Takeaways

Windows 11 delivers robust and accessible methods for entering symbols, catering to diverse user needs. Mastering these features will undoubtedly enhance productivity and efficiency.

Try It Yourself

Explore these features and transform how you type. 

Share your thoughts in the comments below, subscribe for more expert tips, and spread the word by sharing this article on social media!

READ MORE

• Don't Delete That Inetpub Folder in Windows 11! Here's Why You Should Keep It
  
• How Microsoft Edge's Copilot Vision is Redefining Web Browsing
  
• Unlock the Power of Microsoft Windows Storage Sense

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!

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Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at onecooltip.com@gmail.com

Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

One Cool Tip

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Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!

#Windows11Symbols #AltCodeTips #EmojiPanel #TechProductivity  #KeyboardShortcuts #Windows11Tips @windows #Windowswednesday 

#TechTips #TechGuide #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

Don't Delete That Inetpub Folder in Windows 11! Here's Why You Should Keep It

Don't Delete That Inetpub Folder in Windows 11! Here's Why You Should Keep It

That mysterious 'Inetpub' folder appearing in Windows 11 is more than just clutter—it plays a key role in your system's security. Discover its purpose and learn how to restore it if you've accidentally deleted it.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 16, 2025

Have you recently stumbled upon a new folder called 'Inetpub' on your Windows 11 system drive? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Don't Delete It!

The Inetpub folder is included in the April 2025 Patch Tuesday updates for all Windows 11 users. 

While it may seem like uninvited clutter, this folder is tied to crucial security updates aimed at protecting your PC from harmful vulnerabilities. 

What Is the Inetpub Folder and Why Is It Important?

Inetpub has traditionally been associated with Microsoft's Internet Information Services (IIS), commonly used to host websites. 

However, in this context, its role extends beyond web hosting. 

The folder is part of a security update released to address a critical vulnerability, CVE-2025-21204. 

This flaw involves the improper handling of symbolic links, which could enable malicious actors to access or modify sensitive system files. 

By implementing this folder, Microsoft reinforces your system’s defenses.

How Microsoft Edge's Copilot Vision is Redefining Web Browsing

How Microsoft Edge's Copilot Vision is Redefining Web Browsing

Discover how Microsoft’s Copilot Vision in Edge transforms web browsing into an interactive, AI-driven experience. Learn about its features, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for seamless integration across devices.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 9, 2025

Imagine having an AI companion that not only understands the content of the webpage you're viewing but also interacts with it to provide real-time insights and assistance. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Copilot Vision in Microsoft Edge.

What is Copilot Vision?

Copilot Vision is Microsoft’s latest innovation, designed to enhance the browsing experience by allowing users to interact with web pages in real-time. 

This feature, integrated into Microsoft Edge, enables Copilot to “see” what’s on your screen, analyze it, and provide personalized responses. 

Whether you’re researching, shopping, or navigating complex tasks, Copilot Vision simplifies the process.

Unlock the Power of Microsoft Windows Storage Sense

Unlock the Power of Microsoft Windows Storage Sense

Discover how Microsoft Windows Storage Sense can revolutionize the way you manage drive space. Learn its key features, benefits, and step-by-step instructions to optimize your storage effortlessly.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

April 2, 2025

Ever wondered why your computer slows down or runs out of space at the most inconvenient times?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Turn on Windows Storage Sense.

Microsoft Windows Storage Sense acts as your silent assistant, automatically freeing up drive space and ensuring your device runs smoothly. 

But how does it work, and why should you care? Let’s explore.

What is Storage Sense?

Storage Sense is a feature designed to optimize your system’s storage by automatically removing unnecessary files, such as temporary files and items in the Recycle Bin. 

It works exclusively on your system drive (usually labeled as C:) and can be customized to suit your needs.

Metadata: How to Edit File Properties in Windows 11

Metadata: How to Edit File Properties in Windows 11

Editing file metadata in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that enhances file organization and accessibility. This article walks you through the steps, benefits, and practical use cases for mastering metadata management.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

March 26, 2025

Have you ever struggled to keep your digital files organized? 

With hundreds—if not thousands—of files stored across devices, locating specific items can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. 

But what if there was a simple solution to make your files easier to manage and identify? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Edit File Metadata!

Editing file metadata in Windows 11 allows users to add valuable context to their documents, images, and videos—making organization effortless and more intuitive.

Metadata refers to the information embedded in a file that describes its properties, such as title, author, tags, and more. 

In Windows 11, users can edit file metadata directly from File Explorer to ensure files are easily searchable and sortable. 

This feature is particularly useful for professionals managing large amounts of data, creatives organizing projects, and everyday users tidying their digital space.

Here's how to do it.

Windows 11 Update Accidentally Removes Copilot: What You Need to Know

Windows 11 Update Accidentally Removes Copilot: What You Need to Know

A recent Windows 11 update unintentionally removed the Copilot AI assistant from some systems, leaving users scrambling to restore this productivity-enhancing tool. Here’s what happened, why it matters, and how to get Copilot back on your device.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

March 19, 2025

Imagine logging into your Windows 11 PC, ready to tackle the day, only to find that your trusted AI assistant, Copilot, has vanished. 

This is the reality for many users following Microsoft’s latest update. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Reinstall Copilot if it is missing!

What Is Copilot and Why Does It Matter?

Copilot is Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant designed to streamline tasks, enhance productivity, and provide real-time support for users. 

From drafting emails to summarizing documents, Copilot has become an integral part of the Windows 11 experience for many. 

Its removal, even if temporary, highlights the growing reliance on AI tools in our daily workflows.

Microsoft Paint Adds Copilot Remove Background Feature: A Game-Changer for Image Editing

Microsoft Paint Adds Copilot Remove Background Feature: A Game-Changer for Image Editing

Microsoft Paint's new Copilot Remove Background feature revolutionizes image editing by simplifying the process of isolating subjects from their backgrounds. This Cool Tip explores the feature's key functions, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for users.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

March 12, 2025

Have you ever struggled with removing the background from an image, only to end up with jagged edges and unsatisfactory results? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the New "Remove Background" Feature in Microsoft Paint.

Microsoft Paint's latest update introduces the Copilot Remove Background feature, promising to make this task a breeze. 

But what exactly does this feature offer, and how can it benefit users?

The Copilot Remove Background Feature

Microsoft Paint, a staple of Windows for decades, has received a significant upgrade with the introduction of the Copilot button. 

This button consolidates various AI-powered tools, including the new Remove Background feature. 

The Remove Background tool allows users to effortlessly isolate subjects from their backgrounds, making image editing more accessible and efficient.

Top 5 Best New Windows 11 Features: Your Guide to a Seamless Upgrade

Top 5 Best New Windows 11 Features: Your Guide to a Seamless Upgrade

Explore the top 5 best new features in Windows 11 that make it a must-have upgrade for productivity, gaming, and everyday tasks. Perfect for new users and those upgrading from previous versions.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

March 5, 2025

Windows 11 is here, and it’s more than just a visual overhaul! 

Packed with innovative features designed to enhance productivity, gaming, and user experience, this operating system promises a new era in computing. 

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of Windows 11?

How to Use the Xbox Game Bar in Windows 11 for Everyday Tasks

How to Use the Xbox Game Bar in Windows 11 for Everyday Tasks

Discover how to harness the versatile Xbox Game Bar in Windows 11 for productivity, creativity, and everyday tasks beyond gaming. This Cool Tip unveils the hidden potential of this powerful toolset for all users.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

February 26, 2025

Have you ever wished you could record a tutorial without downloading additional software? 

Or monitor your system performance in real time while working on a crucial project?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the Xbox Game Bar in Windows 11.

While the Xbox Game Bar in Windows 11 is primarily designed for gamers, its versatile features can be utilized for much more than just gaming. 

From screen recording to system monitoring and even social media management, the Game Bar can be a game-changer for professionals, students, and casual users alike.