MICROSOFT STORE

I am always on the lookout for Apps from the Microsoft Store and in particular Apps for programs that I use regularly.

Open Live Writer is now in the store.

It looks and works the same as the traditional program. It still lacks the function to drag to resize tables but, apart from that, it remains the excellent program that it always has been.

To celebrate my new NBN internet, I performed a “Reset This PC” on my HTPC. As long as you are prepared, a fast internet makes this process a breeze.

To recap, my preparations are:

  1. Using the inbuilt back up function (so back ups to an external drive are always up to date);
  2. Using OneDrive for all important data;
  3. Keeping a list of programs to be re-installed. This list includes the URL for downloading the .exe and/or the location of disks and activation codes;
  4. For my Canon Printer I keep the two .exe files needed on One Drive
  5. Keeping a list of Store Apps purchased.

With No 5, if you go to the Microsoft Store and click on the “Burger Menu” ( the three dots / top right) and select “Purchased”, you will be taken to the purchase history in your Microsoft Account and from there, select “Show All – From  All Available” . It was surprising when I looked at this list. I had bought a couple of Apps that I had forgotten about.

I only reinstall programs that I use, and put others back if and when needed.

I use a password manager and the entries for my Emails contain server details etc.

If available, I use the store App version as, not only is re-installation easier, but more importantly, a Store App retains the personalisation details you have made – like iTunes and the Money App etc. (Except for non Microsoft Account Emails). I installed Open Live Writer Store App on another computer signed into the same MS Account, and it retained my WordPress Details.

I have to mention that I did have a bit of a panic with Adobe Photoshop Elements. The store bought version I have is 2015 but current store version is 2019. At first I could not download it and I thought I would have to buy the latest one to get it back. BUT rest easy, I bumbled around until I found in this case, you go to MS Store/ Burger (3 dots) Menu / Downloads and Updates / Ready to Install and it was there.##

I thought for a while that I would have to back to “The Gimp”.  Not that there is anything wrong with “The Gimp”, it is an excellent free alternative, but I paid money for PS Elements.

(## This is probably the way you are supposed to do it. My method has been to search from memory in the store where it usually shows that you own the App and re-install from there. I will use the “Ready to Install” menu in future. I think this list might automatically install if given time. I notice that some I did not manually install and now back.)

BROWSERS

I the past I have used Firefox as my default browser. From now on I will leave it as Edge (with Bing) and still install Firefox ( with DuckDuckGo) and Chrome (with Google) and use all three equally.