Alter Archives

Winsage

April 7, 2026

How to Reset Folder Permissions in Windows 11: 5 Proven Methods That Actually Work

Folder permissions in Windows 11 control access to files, determining who can read, modify, or delete them. Common issues arise from drive or file migration, Windows updates, malware, or user errors. Symptoms include "Access Denied" messages and ownership displayed as "unknown." Methods to resolve folder permission issues include: 1. Security Tab: Reset permissions through the Security tab by modifying access levels and ensuring proper inheritance. 2. Take Ownership: Claim ownership of a folder if the current owner is no longer valid, then reset permissions. 3. Command Prompt: Use commands like PLACEHOLDERfa5c045a85bc6cf0 and PLACEHOLDER14a87b7576573f58 to reset permissions quickly and efficiently. 4. PowerShell: Utilize PowerShell for advanced permission resets, allowing for conditional logic. 5. Windows Reset: As a last resort, reset Windows to restore default permissions while keeping personal files. To prevent future issues, back up permissions before changes, understand NTFS vs. share permissions, and avoid altering system folders. If problems persist, ensure commands are run as an administrator, check ownership settings, and verify that Group Policy or sync tools are not overriding changes.

AppWizard

April 4, 2026

Warframe community director says ‘nothing in our games will be AI-generated, ever’

Digital Extremes, the studio behind Warframe and Soulframe, opposes the use of AI in game development. Community Director Megan Everett stated that the company is "very non-AI" and emphasized that all content in their games will be created by humans. She expressed frustration with AI-generated content, stating that it causes uncertainty about the authenticity of art. Despite skepticism towards AI in the industry, some developers are still using AI, as seen with Arc Raiders, which initially utilized AI voice acting but is now shifting to handcrafted assets. A survey indicated that 90% of developers want clearer AI disclosures on platforms like Steam, while some games have included AI "placeholders" in final releases. This has led to concerns among creators about the influence of AI on their work.

Winsage

April 4, 2026

WhatsApp Malware Campaign Uses VBS to Hijack Windows

Microsoft has identified a cyberattack campaign that uses WhatsApp messages to distribute malicious Visual Basic Script (VBS) files targeting Windows systems. First detected in late February 2026, the campaign employs social engineering to trick users into executing the VBS files, which then create hidden directories and disguise themselves as legitimate Windows utilities. The malware downloads additional payloads from cloud platforms like AWS, Tencent Cloud, and Backblaze B2 to establish persistence and escalate privileges. It can bypass User Account Control (UAC), alter registry settings, and install malicious MSI packages, including remote access tools like AnyDesk, to maintain continuous access for attackers.

AppWizard

April 4, 2026

Best Free PC Games You Should Be Playing in 2026

The costs associated with PC gaming are rising, with new GPUs priced like used cars and AAA games exceeding high prices. However, there are many high-quality free games available. Marvel Rivals is a team-based hero shooter featuring characters from the Marvel universe, offering tactical gameplay and vibrant art. Valorant, developed by Riot Games, blends tactical shooting with character-specific abilities and remains popular five years after its launch, emphasizing team composition and skill. Delta Force has returned as a free-to-play tactical shooter, combining expansive battlefield modes with extraction gameplay, satisfying gunplay, and a robust player base. Wuthering Waves is an open-world action RPG with an anime art style and dynamic combat, allowing players to enjoy the game without spending money despite a gacha system. Dota 2, launched in 2013, remains one of the most played games on Steam, known for its depth, over 120 unique heroes, and a steep learning curve, along with a large esports scene. There are many more free PC games available across platforms like Steam and Epic, with new titles launching regularly and opportunities for players to discover quality games.

AppWizard

April 2, 2026

I had high hopes for Nvidia’s DLSS 4.5 Dynamic Multi Frame Gen, but it’s not quite what I expected

Nvidia DLSS 4.5 has been released in beta, featuring advancements in frame generation technology, including the ability to generate up to five "fake frames" with a 6x frame generation option. The Dynamic Multi Frame Generation (MFG) allows users to benefit from multi-frame generation without it being constantly active. This feature is available exclusively for RTX 5000 series graphics cards. Testing with an RTX 5080 showed that activating 2x frame generation increased frame rates to an average of 105fps, while 4x frame generation raised it to approximately 180fps, albeit with increased input lag. The Dynamic Frame Generation mode maintained frame rates between 210fps and 250fps but resulted in a peak PC latency of 68ms. Lowering the target FPS to 120 stabilized frame rates around 120fps with 2x or 3x frame generation, improving responsiveness. Results may vary based on game settings, and exceeding 3x frame generation can lead to input lag. Dynamic MFG allows for easier configuration by automatically adjusting frame generation based on the target refresh rate.

AppWizard

April 1, 2026

Minecraft Gets New Deluxe And Ultimate Bundles – More Content, More Coins, More Creativity

Mojang has released two new bundles for Minecraft: the Deluxe Collection (£24.99) and the Ultimate Collection (£31.99). These bundles are available on Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile. The Deluxe Collection includes Minecraft, three add-ons (Celebration Food, Rescue Dogs, and Plenty O’ Blocks), three exclusive Character Creator items, and 700 Minecoins. The Ultimate Collection includes everything in the Deluxe Collection plus two additional add-ons (Decocraft and Weapons + Tools), five exclusive Character Creator items, and 1000 Minecoins. The Deluxe Collection is designed for players seeking a solid starter pack, while the Ultimate Collection is for those wanting more tools, content, and currency from the beginning. Both bundles offer better value compared to purchasing content separately.

AppWizard

March 31, 2026

PUBG introduces a classic game mode for April Fools’ Day

PUBG is introducing a new game mode called Prop Hunt, available in the Arcade section until April 7th. In this mode, some players act as hunters while others become hiders, transforming into inanimate objects. Hunters face penalties for missed shots, losing health points, while hiders can use tools like decoys and stun grenades. The mode can be played on maps including Rondo, Vikendi, and Miramar.

AppWizard

March 30, 2026

Remember when Mastercard pressured Steam to remove a bunch of NSFW games? The FTC says that’s not cool—sort of

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has addressed concerns to the CEOs of major financial service companies, including Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, and Stripe, regarding the potential denial of services to customers based on political or religious beliefs. The letters warn that such practices could lead to investigations and enforcement actions. This initiative follows an incident involving Valve, where Mastercard was alleged to have pressured the company into removing adult-themed games from its Steam platform, although Mastercard clarified it did not directly influence the removals. FTC Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson emphasized the importance of ensuring all law-abiding individuals can engage in commerce. The situation is further complicated by an executive order from former President Donald Trump, which raised concerns about financial institutions surveilling individuals involved in conservative activities. Ferguson urged Mastercard's CEO to prevent unlawful debanking practices by its network members. There is uncertainty regarding a proposed rule change that may not significantly alter the discretion financial institutions have in customer-related decisions. Inquiries have been made to Valve and the FTC about the implications of these letters for adult video games on the Steam platform.

Winsage

March 30, 2026

Microsoft VP Signals Windows 11 Forced Account Requirement Could Be Removed

Scott Hanselman, Vice President at Microsoft, discussed the mandatory Microsoft account requirement for setting up Windows 11, which applies to both Home and Pro editions. This requirement was introduced with the 22H2 update in 2023 and has faced criticism as it prevents the creation of local accounts without an internet connection. There are unofficial workarounds to bypass this requirement, but they are not officially supported by Microsoft. Internal debates at Microsoft exist regarding the necessity of this account requirement, with some advocating for its removal while others support its continuation. No definitive timeline or commitment for changes to the account requirement has been provided by Hanselman or Microsoft.

AppWizard

March 30, 2026

Borderlands 4 just got its first story DLC, and you can get the full experience at its lowest price yet

Borderlands 4, a looter shooter game, initially faced challenges in securing a strong reception due to awkward humor and technical issues. However, it has improved significantly with updates, making it a good time for new and returning players to engage with the game, especially with the release of a first story DLC and discounts. Players can choose from four or five Vault Hunters, each with unique skills, to confront the Timekeeper in a more serious narrative tone compared to previous titles. The game features diverse loot from enemies and rewarding boss fights. The new Story Pack 1 introduces a new Vault Hunter, C4SH, and new bosses in the Whispering Glacier. The base game and deluxe edition are currently discounted by 38% on Fanatical, priced at .39 / £37.19 and .99 / £40.29, respectively.