anti-cheat Archives

Winsage

June 12, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 emergency update fixes Easy Anti-Cheat BSOD issue

Microsoft released an emergency update, KB5063060, to address a compatibility issue causing unexpected restarts and blue screen of death (BSOD) errors on Windows 11 systems using Easy Anti-Cheat. This update follows the earlier cumulative update, KB5060842, which led to reports of system reboots linked to IRQLNOTLESSOREQUAL BSODs. The issues were confirmed to affect devices running Easy Anti-Cheat, which is used in popular games like Fortnite and Apex Legends. The update will install automatically for devices with Easy Anti-Cheat, and manual installation options are available for x64 and arm64 systems. Additionally, Microsoft implemented a compatibility hold for Windows 24H2 upgrades on Intel Alder Lake+ and vPro systems due to related blue screen issues. On the same day, Microsoft also released security updates addressing 66 vulnerabilities in Windows 11, including critical flaws in Windows SMB and WebDAV.

Winsage

June 12, 2025

Microsoft Installs Emergency Update On Windows PCs

Microsoft has issued an emergency update for Windows users in June to address issues related to the June update (Windows 11 24H2 KB5060842), which caused significant problems for users with Easy Anti-Cheat gaming software. The initial update was paused due to stability concerns, and a patch was applied, but it did not resolve the issues. Users reported installation failures with error code (0x80073712). Microsoft acknowledged compatibility issues and ultimately retracted the faulty update, replacing it with the emergency update KB5063060. This new update addresses unexpected reboots while launching games that use Easy Anti-Cheat and will automatically download and install on affected devices.

Winsage

June 10, 2025

Arm says Windows game compatibility is up to developers

Arm-powered Windows devices using Qualcomm Snapdragon processors are noted for their sleek designs and long battery life. While core compatibility issues have been largely resolved, gaming remains a challenge due to anti-cheat program compatibility, which can prevent games from launching. Chris Bergey from Arm Holdings mentioned that most users spend about 90% of their time on applications with native Arm versions. Major developers like Epic Games are exploring ways to improve compatibility with Arm-based systems. Additionally, anti-cheat issues affect the Steam Deck, which operates on an AMD processor but lacks native versions of several popular anti-cheat systems. As Arm-based Windows devices gain market share, game developers are expected to prioritize support for these platforms. The integration of Windows and Steam into Arm-based handheld devices could transform the gaming landscape, especially with improved battery life and efficiency.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

Windows on Arm vs Intel: Which laptop platform is right for you?

The Windows laptop market has shifted towards devices powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, moving away from traditional Intel and AMD architectures. This initiative, known as Windows on Arm, has produced notable products like the Asus ZenBook A14 and Dell XPS 13, which are praised for their performance in AI applications and impressive battery life. These devices can run Intel-based applications through an emulation layer called Prism, which translates x86-64 code into ARM64 instructions, allowing compatibility with non-native software. While they perform well for office tasks and some creative applications, limitations exist in gaming and high-demand software due to the need for specific drivers and graphics performance. Currently, the market features three Windows on Arm processors: Snapdragon X Elite, X Plus, and X. Pricing for these laptops often exceeds ,000, making Intel and AMD options more appealing for budget-conscious consumers.

Winsage

May 26, 2025

In an embarrassment for Microsoft, SteamOS seems to destroy Windows 11 on gaming performance and battery life, as well as usability

Early comparisons between SteamOS and Windows 11 on identical hardware show that SteamOS offers significantly better gaming performance, particularly in battery life. The Lenovo Legion Go S, when running SteamOS, provides over six hours of gameplay on 2D games like Dead Cells, while the Windows version only achieves 2.75 hours. Despite Windows 11's compatibility with various gaming platforms, it has faced criticism for performance issues and unnecessary features. Windows holds a dominant market share of about 70% in desktop operating systems, but the rise of SteamOS may challenge this position.

Winsage

May 17, 2025

Windows 11 Home vs Pro for Gaming: Which One Should You Choose?

Upgrading from Windows 11 Home to Windows 11 Pro does not yield significant benefits in gaming performance, compatibility, or features for most gamers. Both editions provide identical gaming performance, supporting the same core gaming technologies such as DirectStorage, Auto HDR, and Game Mode. Windows 11 Home supports up to 128 GB of RAM and one CPU socket with 64 cores, while Windows 11 Pro supports up to 2 TB of RAM and two CPU sockets with 128 cores. Pro includes additional features like BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop hosting, Hyper-V virtualization, and Group Policy management, which are not typically utilized by gamers. The price of Windows 11 Home is lower than that of Pro, making it a more cost-effective choice for gaming. Both editions meet the hardware requirements for modern gaming, and compatibility with major games and platforms is consistent across both versions.

Winsage

May 13, 2025

Windows 11 upgrade block lifted after Safe Exam Browser fix

Microsoft has lifted an upgrade block that prevented certain users of the Safe Exam Browser from installing the Windows 11 2024 Update due to compatibility concerns. The block was initially implemented in September to protect users from issues with Safe Exam Browser version 3.7 or earlier. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Safe Exam Browser version 3.8 or later before proceeding with the Windows 11 24H2 update. If users still encounter the safeguard hold after 48 hours of updating, they should contact Safe Exam Browser Support. The Windows 11 24H2 feature update is now available for all compatible PCs, except those under safeguard holds. Microsoft has resolved issues that previously blocked the update for some users and has removed other compatibility holds for specific devices and applications. However, some upgrade blocks remain due to incompatible hardware and software. Windows 11 24H2 began its rollout in May 2024 for enterprise testing, with a broader release in October.

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.