Windows Archives

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Microsoft tightens Windows security with app transparency and user consent

Microsoft is enhancing the security of its Windows operating system through two initiatives: User Transparency and Consent, and Windows Baseline Security Mode. The User Transparency and Consent initiative will notify users when applications request access to sensitive resources and log every permission granted, allowing users to review and modify their choices. Applications and AI agents will adhere to higher transparency standards. Windows Baseline Security Mode will enable runtime integrity safeguards by default, allowing only properly signed applications, services, and drivers to run. Users and IT administrators can approve exceptions for specific applications. These updates are part of Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative, which aims to help organizations prevent, manage, and recover from security incidents. The rollout will occur in phases, with collaboration from developers, enterprises, and partners to ensure a smooth transition.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

The Windows 98 Toaster is Here

YouTuber Throaty Mumbo successfully ran Windows 98 on a smart toaster by disassembling the Revolution Cooking High-Speed Smart Toaster and using a Raspberry Pi 5 to emulate a late-1990s Pentium II PC. He created a custom program called “toast.exe” to facilitate communication between the Windows 98 interface and the toaster's hardware. The project resulted in a functional system that allows users to operate the toaster through a retro Windows 98 environment, complete with a 7-inch HDMI monitor and a 3D-printed shell designed to resemble a classic PC.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Microsoft fixes six actively exploited flaws in latest Windows 11 update

Microsoft's February 2026 Patch Tuesday addressed 59 vulnerabilities in Windows 11, with six confirmed as actively exploited. The most critical vulnerability is CVE-2026-21510, a Windows Shell security feature bypass with a CVSS rating of 8.8, allowing attackers to evade warnings by tricking users into opening malicious files. Another significant vulnerability, CVE-2026-21513, also rated at 8.8, affects MSHTML and allows remote attackers to bypass execution prompts through malicious code in HTML or shortcut files. CVE-2026-21514 impacts Microsoft Word and enables adversaries to disable OLE mitigations, posing risks through document-based attacks. Two local privilege escalation vulnerabilities are CVE-2026-21519 in Desktop Window Manager and CVE-2026-21533 in Windows Remote Desktop Services, with CVSS scores of 7.8. CVE-2026-21525 is a denial-of-service vulnerability in Remote Access Connection Manager. The update includes 53 additional vulnerabilities across various Microsoft products and services, with CVE-2026-21531 in Azure SDK rated at 9.8 and CVE-2026-20841 affecting Windows Notepad rated at 8.8. The cumulative update for Windows 11 (KB5077181) also includes enhancements and resolves WPA3 Wi-Fi connectivity issues. Microsoft reminded users of the June 2026 expiration of Secure Boot certificates, which requires timely updates to ensure secure booting. Users can install the updates via Windows Update.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Global Group ransomware gang running new campaign using Windows shortcut files

The Global Group ransomware operates entirely in silent mode, executing all activities locally on the compromised system without relying on a command and control server. It generates the encryption key directly on the host machine, resulting in no actual data exfiltration despite claims in its ransom note. This approach allows for quicker attacks, targeting a broader range of victims while reducing detection risk. The act of encryption alone can compel payment due to significant operational downtime for affected organizations.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

This Microsoft Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro bundle drops to under $50

A lifetime license for Microsoft Office Professional 2021, bundled with Windows 11 Pro, is available for .97, reduced from 9.99, valid until February 22 at 11:59 p.m. PT. The bundle includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and Teams, all as full desktop versions. Windows 11 Pro features include BitLocker encryption, Windows Sandbox, Hyper-V virtualization, and enhanced account controls, along with integration of Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot. This offer is a one-time purchase and does not include ongoing feature updates or cloud storage. The hardware requirements are 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

Microsoft is keeping Secure Boot alive with Windows updates

Microsoft is enhancing the security of Windows devices by replacing boot-level security certificates that are nearing expiration, with this initiative integrated into regular Windows platform updates. The original Secure Boot certificates from 2011 will expire between June and October 2026, prompting Microsoft to issue new certificates in 2023, which are included in many new Windows devices sold since 2024. Older hardware will require updates to remain compliant. Devices with expired certificates will continue to operate but will enter a "degraded security state," potentially hindering future updates and causing compatibility issues. The new Secure Boot certificates rollout began with the Windows 11 KB5074109 update. Most Windows 11 users will have the new certificates installed automatically, while specialized systems may have different update protocols. Windows 10 users must enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates to receive the new certificates.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: OneDrive ⭐

Microsoft has auto-enabled the OneDrive Folder Backup feature in Windows 11 version 25H2 without notifying users, syncing the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders automatically. Many users may not want these folders synced due to containing sensitive or large files. Disabling Folder Backup can be cumbersome, as it requires users to decide where to store contents, complicating content management. Unlike previous versions, this feature is activated post-login without user consent. To uninstall OneDrive, users can go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, locate Microsoft OneDrive, and select "Uninstall." Uninstalling does not delete cloud-stored files, which remain accessible via the OneDrive website or app. Users can prevent OneDrive from enabling Folder Backup during PC setup by acting quickly after the Windows Setup Out of Box Experience (OOBE) and canceling the backup process when prompted. If Folder Backup is already enabled, users can disable it by accessing OneDrive settings and managing backups for the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. OneDrive offers only 5 GB of free cloud storage, with additional storage requiring a subscription to Microsoft 365. Users can disable “On this day” memory notifications in OneDrive settings. To move OneDrive to a different disk, users must unlink their account and select a new folder path during re-sign-in.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

Windows shortcut weaponized in Phorpiex-linked ransomware campaign

The Global Group has shifted to a local execution strategy for ransomware, complicating detection and response efforts. Their infection process begins when a user opens a shortcut file with a double extension (e.g., “Document.doc.lnk”), which appears as a legitimate document due to Windows' default settings that hide file extensions. The shortcut icon mimics that of a Microsoft Word file. When executed, the .lnk file activates Windows utilities like cms.exe and PowerShell to retrieve and execute the next-stage payload, effectively bypassing traditional security controls focused on malicious documents or executable attachments.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

Your Windows PC has a secretly useful backup tool – here’s how to access it

Windows Backup is a built-in feature in Windows that allows users to back up specific folders and files, as well as create a complete system image. Backups can be directed to various media, including CDs, DVDs, external hard drives, or network locations, and users can schedule backups to run at regular intervals. However, Windows Backup has been deprecated by Microsoft and is no longer supported or updated, which may lead to occasional issues. A newer tool also named Windows Backup exists, designed for backing up and restoring specific files and settings for PC transitions. Users should prepare their storage media, typically external drives with 16GB to 32GB of space, before using the older Windows Backup. Restoration options include returning files to their original location or a different one, depending on the situation. Despite its deprecated status, Windows Backup remains functional and is considered a valuable tool for users seeking a built-in backup solution.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

10 open-source apps I recommend every Windows user download

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users, particularly on Windows. Notable applications include: 1. LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite with a customizable interface, supports MS Office formats, and is free to download. 2. Flow Launcher: A file search and application launcher that enhances efficiency, customizable, and free to use. 3. Duplicati: A zero-trust backup solution with encryption and scheduling features, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, free to install on Windows. 5. Franz: Consolidates multiple messaging platforms into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: Allows users to create custom top bars for system information and quick access controls, enhancing the user experience. 7. File Converter: Simplifies file conversion and compression within the Windows file manager, available for free. 8. Bitwarden: A password management tool with a free version and additional paid features for collaboration. 9. AutoHotKey: Automates tasks on Windows through scripting, free to install and use. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI interaction tool that prioritizes privacy, free to use on Windows.