administration

Winsage
September 17, 2026
On September 14, 2026, Microsoft released KB5129195, an out-of-band cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, transitioning systems to build 26100.9457 for 24H2 and 26200.9457 for 25H2. The update addresses several regressions, including failed connections and sign-ins in Remote Desktop Services, host-folder sharing failures in Plan9 file sharing for HCS-managed Linux virtual machines, and failures affecting 8-channel and 3D-audio modes in USB Audio Class 1.0. However, it does not fix ongoing issues with AMD Radeon graphics cards, such as freezes, black screens, and driver timeouts, which have affected various hardware configurations. KB5129195 is available through multiple distribution channels, including Windows Update and WSUS.
AppWizard
September 5, 2026
The City Council will examine Mayor Mamdani's administration's use of a secretive encrypted messaging channel for media relations, which connects nearly 200 social media influencers. This discussion is scheduled for a hearing on September 22. Queens Councilman Phil Wong plans to introduce legislation requiring influencers to label posts for city agency campaigns with a disclaimer stating “Paid for by NYC.” A report revealed that city officials communicated with influencers through a Signal app group titled “NYC Creators Announcements,” sharing updates and multimedia content. Some influencers received payment for their involvement, while others supported the mayor's agenda for personal growth. Concerns have been raised about the Signal chat potentially violating record-keeping regulations due to auto-deletion of messages. The identities of the influencers and details of their contracts remain undisclosed. Wong's proposed bill aims to reveal any undisclosed payments to influencers and raise questions about the integrity of the administration's use of external promoters. Critics argue that the administration's secrecy calls for greater transparency in public relations expenditures.
AppWizard
August 31, 2026
India's cybercrime authorities have warned about the misuse of dating and adult-themed advertisements on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which are being exploited by criminals to distribute malicious Android applications. These ads redirect users to external websites where they are prompted to download APK files, bypassing security measures of trusted app stores. The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has identified several malicious applications, including Night Play, Reloop, Kyss, Vimo, Rivo, Nexo, and Vixa, and cautions against installing unfamiliar applications promoted through unsolicited ads. These apps may request sensitive permissions, such as access to SMS messages, contacts, photos, device storage, and Accessibility Services, which can allow fraudsters to access valuable information. Compromised devices can lead to financial fraud by intercepting OTPs and other verification details. The I4C recommends using trusted app stores, keeping Google Play Protect active, reviewing app permissions, and being cautious with social media ads. If a suspicious app is installed, users should restart their phone in Safe Mode to uninstall it, disable its permissions if necessary, and consider a factory reset if removal fails. Users who suspect fraud are encouraged to report incidents promptly.
Winsage
August 17, 2026
Microsoft has transitioned its newly designed Print Management tool into the Release Preview channel for Windows 11, moving it closer to general availability after initial appearances in Beta and Experimental builds. The new Print Management app, built on WinUI 3, replaces the outdated MMC-style console and features a modern layout with a user-friendly interface. It serves as a comprehensive management system for administrators, allowing oversight of printers, print queues, drivers, ports, and print servers. The rollout schedule includes an optional update anticipated for late August and integration into the regular September cumulative update. However, the timeline may be subject to delays. The updated application maintains essential administrative functionality while simplifying tasks such as renaming printers and customizing displayed information. Some legacy elements remain, requiring administrative privileges to launch the app. Microsoft is actively modernizing Windows 11's user interface, including the Print Management tool, as part of a broader initiative to replace outdated components.
Winsage
August 10, 2026
Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows Server 2016, which will provide critical security patches until January 2030, after the end of extended support on January 12, 2027. Organizations can enroll their Windows Server 2016 instances via Azure Arc to receive these updates without migrating to Azure. The ESUs are available through a pay-as-you-go pricing model, allowing flexibility for on-premises servers and other cloud platforms. By using Azure Arc, organizations gain access to Azure management tools for improved visibility and compliance. IT administrators should connect eligible systems to Azure Arc to manage ESU enrollment and compliance effectively. ESUs are intended as a temporary solution while businesses modernize applications and plan migrations to supported platforms.
Search