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
November 20, 2023
A VPN Can Be a Useful Tool in Your Cybersecurity Efforts
It can’t come as a surprise that businesses are starting to grow concerned about the potential of getting hit by a cyberattack. Just look at what's happening out there. Literally millions of hackers trying to enter, steal, and sell your business’ data. To help protect their data, businesses should consider the adoption of a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which adeptly conceals data during its transit. Let's take a look into some of the most compelling reasons why your business should embrace the use of a VPN.
November 17, 2023
With Cybercriminals Utilizing Psychology, You Need To As Well
Psychology—the scientific study of the mind and behavior—can provide some significant insights into which actions will ultimately be most beneficial to your company. What message will most effectively reach your clients, how can you inspire more motivation amongst your team, and what can you do to reach your goals more effectively?
November 15, 2023
4 Ways to Get More Productivity Out of Your Smartphone
Smartphones are incredible productivity tools that anyone can take advantage of for personal computing or business purposes. Thanks to the large amount of mobile applications available, there are countless ways that people can reimagine various aspects of their lives for the better. To help you out, we’ve put together four of our favorite smartphone tips that you might find useful.

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