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 24, 2023
So, Your Network was Breached… What Do You Do Next?
Businesses currently face an unprecedented level of threat from data breaches, with more means of undermining their security out there than ever before. Making the situation worse, all it takes is one to bring significant impacts to your business, from financial and reputational loss, not to mention all the potential legal issues that come into play. Let’s review what you need to do should you ever be on the receiving end of a breach.
July 21, 2023
A Zero Trust Policy Is a Great Way to Prioritize Security
Running a business is hard enough without having to think about cybersecurity. Your business faces existential threats from cyberattacks every day it’s operational, as data breaches truly do have the power to bring your business down if you’re not prepared for the fallout. A zero trust approach can help to mitigate many of the risks that come from cybersecurity threats, and it’s all thanks to the principle of least permission.
July 19, 2023
Tip of the Week: Understanding Your Smartphone Battery’s Lifespan
When your smartphone battery dies, you’re left feeling inconvenienced and, likely, pretty annoyed. Unless you’re carrying your charger on you at all times, you’ll need to find a solution to your battery charge issues. The solution, like with many other technological issues, is to be proactive and take action to keep your battery from dying in the first place. That’s what we’re here to discuss today.

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