Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
Three of the Easiest Game-Changing Windows Tips

Three of the Easiest Game-Changing Windows Tips

February 18, 2025

We’re always chatting about how cool technology can be—even though even the biggest tech fans might not know all the neat options out there. Even though Windows 10 is slowly stepping down as the most popular workstation, you might be surprised that more than 60% of work computers are still running it. That’s why this week, we’re diving into three awesome Windows 10 features (that also work on Windows 11) that can really make your life easier.

Focus Assist

With non-stop notifications popping up everywhere, it’s no wonder we get interrupted all the time. Windows’ Focus Assist helps you stay in the zone. Simply go to Settings > System > Focus Assist and set it to kick in at the times you choose. You can even customize it so that only the really important alerts come through—no more interruptions from that random Amazon ad for a tent.

Built-in Dictation

Not many people know about the built-in dictation tool in the latest Windows versions. Just hit Windows key + H to open the dictation toolbar, and you can start talking to fill in any text field.

Use Multiple Desktops

One really cool feature in recent Windows updates is the ability to use multiple desktops. This lets you separate your projects so you can switch between them without the clutter. To get started, right-click on the taskbar, go to Taskbar Settings, and toggle on the Task view option. That adds a Task view icon right next to the start button, and with a click, you can create a whole new desktop (complete with its own background) to keep your work organized.

Windows has been a key business tool for ages, and with Windows 10 and 11, Microsoft has packed these operating systems with plenty of cool features and resources. 

As we mentioned above, support for Windows 10 ends soon (on October 14, 2025) and businesses that haven’t made plans to upgrade need to consider their options immediately. If you would like some help poring through your options, give the IT professionals at First Column IT a call today at (571) 470-5594.

Previous Post
July 25, 2026
Your Team is Your Best Technology
Deploying AI and automation across a business does not automatically improve revenue generation and profit margins. It is common to look at the current software landscape and treat new tools as a shortcut to bypass foundational strategy. Technology amplifies efficiency, but it cannot manufacture value out of thin air.
July 22, 2026
The Hidden Risks of Software Bloat and Phishing
Navigating business technology right now feels remarkably heavy. It is not just one sudden shift causing the strain, but rather a compounding series of software overhead increases and evolving security threats. Many decision makers find themselves caught in a cycle of paying more for tools while getting less actual utility from them.
July 19, 2026
Stop Buying, Start Optimizing: A Guide to Operational Longevity
Keeping an organization operational for decades requires a shift in how you view your daily operations. Longevity is rarely achieved by chasing the newest enterprise software platforms or upgrading hardware cycles ahead of schedule. Sustainable growth comes from maximizing the assets you already own, protecting your information, and respecting the workforce using those tools.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here