activation issues Archives

Winsage

December 11, 2024

Windows 10 KB5048652 out with fixes (direct download .msu)

Today marks the rollout of Windows 10 KB5048652, the final security update for this operating system. This update focuses on essential bug fixes and will automatically download and install unless auto-updates are blocked. Users can also manually install it via Settings > Updates & Security > Windows Update, upgrading their system to build 19045.5427. The update addresses existing vulnerabilities and includes offline installer files (.msu) for those unable to update through the Settings app. The update omits the new Recommended section in the Start menu, which has been criticized for promoting unnecessary Microsoft Store apps. Bug fixes in this update resolve issues with copying files from cloud storage services, ensure Win32 app shortcuts back up correctly to the cloud, and address Windows 10 activation issues after a motherboard change, as well as problems with Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) printers. As the end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches, users are encouraged to consider their options, as security and feature updates will cease after the deadline. There is an option to extend Windows 10 security support for an additional year at a cost, but opportunities to continue using the operating system are limited.

Winsage

December 6, 2024

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4580 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4580 (KB5046733) has been released to the Beta Channel, introducing various changes and improvements. Changes and Improvements: - The simplified system tray has been temporarily disabled due to issues reported by Insiders. - File Explorer now opens folders in a new tab by default when launched from outside the application, with an option to revert to the traditional behavior. - The “Restore previous folder windows at logon” feature will restore all previously opened tabs. - A new option allows users to snooze or disable the “Start backup” reminder in the File Explorer address bar. Fixes: - Resolved an issue for Pinyin IME users where switching windows could unexpectedly change the IME from Chinese to English. - Fixed Bluetooth LE Audio streaming issues for certain devices. - Corrected a problem causing Windows to become unresponsive when using an IPP USB printer. - Addressed activation issues following a motherboard replacement. - Updated profiles for specific mobile operators. Microsoft Store Update: - The Microsoft Store now supports direct updates for Win32 apps provided by their publishers, allowing users to initiate updates from the Downloads page. Reminders: - Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 23H2 through an enablement package. - Features may be rolled out gradually, and not all features may be released to the public. - Localization for features in development may not be complete.

Winsage

November 15, 2024

Windows 11 22631.4534 Release Preview brings new features for Start menu, taskbar, and more

Microsoft has rolled out an update for Windows 11 version 23H2, identified as KB5046732 (22631.4534), which includes enhancements to the Start menu, taskbar, input methods, Task Manager, Dynamic Lighting, and accessibility features. Key updates include: - Start menu: Users can access jump lists by right-clicking pinned apps. - Taskbar: The system tray shows a condensed date and time format, and the notification bell icon can be hidden when "Do not disturb" is activated. - Touchscreen: A section for customizing edge gestures has been added. - Mouse: Users can disable enhanced mouse pointer precision and modify scrolling direction. - Task Manager: Supports dark mode and text scaling in Disconnect and Logoff dialogs; provides detailed disk type information. - Input Method Editor (IME): The IME toolbar hides during full-screen mode for Chinese or Japanese typing. - File Explorer: New sharing feature allows sending content to Android devices via Phone Link. - Windows Search: Operates IFilters within Less Privileged App Containers for enhanced security. - Dynamic Lighting: New placeholder message for unconnected devices and enhanced Wave and Gradient effects. - Narrator: New functionalities in scan mode for easier navigation. - Speech in Windows: Enhancements to speech-to-text and text-to-speech capabilities. - Settings: Tailored Experiences feature rebranded to Personalized offers. Fixes include resolution of activation issues after motherboard replacement, updated mobile operator profiles, fixes for unresponsiveness with IPP USB printers, and addressed streaming issues with Bluetooth LE Audio devices.

Winsage

November 15, 2024

Windows 10 19045.5194 is out in Beta and Release Preview with fixes for activation issues

Microsoft has released Build 19045.5194 for Windows 10 insiders under KB5046714, which includes several fixes and improvements. Key fixes include: - Resolved an issue with Win32 shortcuts not backing up to the cloud. - Fixed a bug causing files dragged from cloud provider folders to move instead of copy. - Addressed activation issues after a motherboard replacement. - Updated profiles for certain mobile operators. - Fixed a problem causing Windows to stop responding when using an IPP USB printer. Additionally, for Beta Channel participants, Microsoft is rolling out further improvements, and users can adjust their settings to receive updates more rapidly. The Recommended section of the Start menu now showcases select Microsoft Store apps, which can be disabled in Settings under Personalization.

Winsage

October 24, 2024

Microsoft’s official Windows 11 virtual machines are no longer available

Microsoft's official virtual machines for the Windows 11 Development Environment are currently unavailable for download as of October 23, 2024, due to expiration and activation issues. Users with operational environments will face activation problems, as these virtual machines do not support activation via product keys, resulting in a black desktop background and shutdown every hour for expired versions. The last update for these virtual machines was in July 2024, based on Windows 11 build 22621.3880. The Windows 11 Development Environment was offered in four configurations: Hyper-V, Parallels for Mac, VirtualBox, and VMware, and included tools such as Visual Studio 2022 Community Edition, .NET Desktop, Azure, Windows App SDK for C#, Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 with Ubuntu, Windows Terminal, and Developer mode.