anti-cheat Archives

Winsage

May 8, 2025

As Windows 10’s death looms, Linux fans still promote “no ads or telemetry” for your old laptop instead of buying a Copilot+ PC

Windows 10 will reach its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025. Users can either upgrade to Windows 11, purchase an additional year of support through the Extended Security Updates program, or switch to a different operating system. Approximately 240 million PCs are not ready for Windows 11 due to its stringent system requirements. The End of 10 group is advocating for users to switch to Linux instead of upgrading hardware for Windows 11, highlighting Linux's advantages such as being free, open-source, and environmentally friendly. They encourage users to explore beginner-friendly Linux distributions and assure support from the Linux community. Windows 11 currently holds a market share of 42.69%, while Windows 10 has a dominant 54.2%.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

Can’t upgrade to Windows 11? This Linux project wants to save your old PC from the scrapheap when Windows 10 support ends

As Windows 10 approaches its End of Life in October 2025, the ‘End of 10’ project advocates for transitioning to Linux for users with older PCs that cannot upgrade to Windows 11. The initiative emphasizes the environmental benefits of extending the lifespan of existing devices, highlighting that computer production accounts for over 75% of carbon emissions during its lifecycle. It also points out that Linux offers greater privacy and control compared to Windows 11, as well as cost efficiency since it is free and future updates remain free if the chosen distribution is supported. While there are concerns about the learning curve and potential software compatibility issues, the project encourages users to seek support from online forums or local repair shops. The Linux community is noted for its willingness to assist newcomers, making it a viable alternative for older PCs that cannot support Windows 11.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

Microsoft: Windows 11 24H2 now ready to rollout to everyone

Microsoft has announced the rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update, also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update, which is now available for all compatible PCs, except those with safeguard holds. The gradual rollout via Windows Update is nearing completion, and eligible users will see an option to download the update in their settings. Automatic updates will apply to Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2) not managed by IT departments. Upgrade blocks are in place for systems with incompatible hardware or software, including certain applications and drivers. Users can check compatibility using the PC Health Check app or Windows 11 specifications. The update introduces new features such as AI-powered capabilities, an energy saver, Wi-Fi 7 compatibility, Bluetooth LE audio support, HDR background support, natural language understanding in search, and a revamped Windows Recall feature. The rollout began in May 2024 for enterprise testing and transitioned to general availability in October. It will also be available to eligible PCs running Windows 10 22H2 in late January 2025, with a force-installation for unmanaged systems on Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2. Microsoft provides a guided walkthrough and support document for users during the upgrade process.

Winsage

April 21, 2025

5 amazing Linux distros that are better than Windows, but you should avoid them as a beginner

Linux distributions have evolved to be more accessible for users transitioning from Windows and macOS, with Debian-based distributions being relatively easy to navigate. DietPi is an ultra-lightweight OS that requires manual configuration of essential packages, making it more suitable for experienced users. Tails prioritizes user privacy by using the Tor network and operates from a USB drive, but is not ideal for casual users. Qubes OS enhances security through virtualization but has a steep learning curve and challenges with GPU passthrough. Talos Linux is optimized for Kubernetes projects but may be difficult for newcomers due to its lack of SSH support and immutable design. Bazzite, a gaming-focused distribution based on Fedora, offers a user-friendly setup but may not support multiplayer games with kernel-level anti-cheat technology, making it less suitable for competitive gamers.

Winsage

April 9, 2025

Microsoft: April 2025 updates break Windows Hello on some PCs

Microsoft has announced that a subset of Windows users may have difficulties logging into their accounts via Windows Hello after installing the April 2025 security updates, specifically affecting Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 with the KB5055523 update. The issue occurs on devices with Dynamic Root of Trust for Measurement (DRTM) or System Guard Secure Launch features enabled prior to the update. Users may see messages indicating problems with their PIN or facial recognition setup. Microsoft has provided workarounds for affected users, including re-enrollment in Windows Hello for both PIN and facial recognition. Additionally, Microsoft resolved another bug related to KB5055523 affecting Credential Guard and introduced a safeguard hold for Windows 11 24H2 systems using SenseShield Technology's sprotect.sys driver due to compatibility issues. Upgrade blocks have also been implemented for devices with incompatible software or hardware, including Dirac audio improvement software and certain applications.

AppWizard

April 8, 2025

I tried gaming on Linux — and it’s better (and worse) than you think

The gaming experience on Linux, particularly with Ubuntu, has been positive, with many single-player and co-op games performing well due to compatibility tools like Wine and Steam's Proton. While most Windows games can be played on Linux, limitations exist, particularly for MMORPGs and competitive multiplayer games that rely on kernel-level anti-cheat systems, rendering titles like Fortnite and Valorant unplayable. Some competitive games do offer Linux support, but this is not guaranteed. Additionally, accessory applications for gaming peripherals often lack support on Linux, although open-source alternatives exist. As of 2025, while Linux gaming has improved, significant gaps remain, particularly in compatibility with anti-cheat systems, making it less appealing than Windows for many gamers.

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 blocked on PCs with code-obfuscation driver BSODs

Microsoft has implemented a safeguard hold for Windows 11 version 24H2 for systems using the sprotect.sys driver from SenseShield Technology, to prevent crashes and BSOD errors due to compatibility issues. This hold blocks the Windows 11 2024 Update from being delivered via Windows Update. Affected users can identify their systems using the safeguard ID: 56318982 and should not attempt manual updates until the issue is resolved. Microsoft has previously lifted other compatibility holds for specific user groups and has enacted additional upgrade blocks due to incompatible software or hardware.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Call of Duty will finally let console players turn off crossplay to dodge PC cheaters, which is potentially terrible news for all the legit PC players

Activision will allow players to disable crossplay in regular unranked matches with the launch of Black Ops 6 Season 3 on April 2. Previously, crossplay limitations were only available in ranked modes. The new options will include enabling matchmaking with all platforms, with consoles only, or restricting to the current platform. This decision addresses concerns about cheating, which predominantly affects PC players, but 60% of reported cheaters are on console. Reactions to the change are mixed, with some players worried about potential impacts on queue times for PC gamers, while others suggest it may not significantly affect matchmaking. Some players also expressed a desire for more tailored matchmaking options.

Winsage

March 27, 2025

10 pesky Windows 11 24H2 bugs still haunting PCs despite several patches

In October, Microsoft released the 2024 update for Windows 11, known as Windows 11 24H2, which enhances Copilot AI, refines File Explorer, and improves performance and stability. The update is available for users of Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2 through the Windows Update screen or Microsoft's official Download Windows 11 page. However, various bugs have been reported, leading Microsoft to temporarily pause the update for certain problematic PCs. Notable issues include: 1. AutoCAD 2022 may not open on some systems. 2. PCs with Citrix components may struggle with installation due to a glitch from the January Patch Tuesday update. 3. Compatibility issues with the Easy Anti-Cheat program can result in Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, particularly on Intel Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Users report internet connectivity problems after the update, with some unable to receive a valid IP address. 5. Network sharing issues prevent devices from appearing in the network list. 6. Printer setup issues affect users of Copilot+ PCs from various manufacturers. 7. Audio output problems occur on PCs with Dirac Audio technology. 8. Outlook may fail to launch if Google Workspace Sync is installed. 9. Integrated camera issues affect the Windows camera app and Windows Hello facial recognition. 10. Compatibility problems with Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers may trigger blue screens on certain PCs. Microsoft has issued several patches to address these bugs since the update's launch, but some patches have introduced new issues.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Discord unveils brand-new overlay for PC, promises better game support and performance

Discord has released a significant update to its PC client and overlay, featuring a complete overhaul aimed at improving user experience. The overlay has been rebuilt for smoother interactions during gameplay, with a new rendering method that enhances performance and expands compatibility with a wider range of games. The desktop client now offers four themes (Light, Ash, Dark, and Onyx) and three UI density settings, along with resizable server channels and improved voice and video settings. A new widget-based overlay allows for customizable positioning of settings, and an action bar simplifies the management of voice and video controls. The update is being rolled out to PC users, and a restart of the app may be required to access the latest version.