automatic installation Archives

Winsage

July 30, 2026

Windows 11 KB5101684 update released with 42 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the KB5101684 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, which includes 42 bug fixes and various enhancements. This update is part of the optional non-security preview update schedule and does not include security updates. Users can install it via Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates, with an option to choose installation. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 to build 26100.8973 and Windows 11 25H2 to build 26200.8973. It addresses issues such as false invalid credential errors in File History backups, noncompliance in newly enrolled devices, and incorrect file markings on DFS mapped drives. New features include enhanced navigation in File Explorer, more accurate file size indicators, improved search results for app names, and new precision touchpad controls. Voice Isolation support for Voice Access is introduced, along with expanded Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security for external fingerprint readers. Immediate features include enhancements to Secure Boot, app stability improvements, and fixes for MDM compliance issues. Additional features rolling out post-update involve better file size displays in File Explorer, enhanced app search, Voice Isolation for voice access, taskbar notification badge updates, new touchpad gesture controls, and reliability improvements for the Start menu and Windows sign-in screens. Microsoft reports no known issues with this update.

Winsage

July 25, 2026

Microsoft finally found a Windows ad it doesn’t like

Users of LG monitors have reported frustration over unsolicited McAfee pop-up ads that automatically appear during the Windows Update process. This issue arises from the installation of the "LG Monitor App Installer," which includes promotional software alongside the standard monitor driver. Reports indicate that this software installs without user consent, even when only a video cable is connected. Following an investigation by Gamers Nexus, Microsoft announced that LG has agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up, although the LG Monitor App Installer will still be automatically downloaded via Windows Update.

Tech Optimizer

July 24, 2026

Microsoft steps in after LG monitors were found auto-installing apps with McAfee ads

McAfee's reputation has declined from being a trusted antivirus software during the MS-DOS era to facing user backlash against its advertising practices. The advertising partnership between LG and McAfee has ended following Microsoft's intervention, which prompted LG to remove McAfee promotions from its Windows Store app. This controversy arose when users reported that the "LG Monitor App Installer," automatically installed with new LG monitors, displayed McAfee promotions. Microsoft and LG aim to enhance the Windows ecosystem and improve customer software experiences. Several LG monitor models were identified as having inadvertently installed the app. The automatic installation feature used by LG is also employed by other companies, indicating a trend in the industry that raises concerns about user experience and promotional strategies.

Winsage

July 24, 2026

LG kills McAfee pop-up after Windows boss steps in

LG has decided to stop the McAfee pop-up notifications in its Monitor App Installer following intervention from Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows at Microsoft. Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, had previously highlighted the annoyance caused by these advertisements. The pop-ups appeared when certain LG devices, like the LG UltraGear, were connected to a Windows device for the first time. Windows allows hardware manufacturers to silently add software during external device installations, which can lead to advertising and mixed user experiences. LG is not exploiting vulnerabilities for software installation, and the automatic process is well-documented. This incident raises questions about review procedures and the implications of advertising within the Windows ecosystem.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

LG monitors are reportedly automatically installing bloatware on Windows 11 PCs, but there’s an apparent fix

LG monitors are automatically installing McAfee bloatware on Windows 11 PCs without user consent, as indicated in the changelog of the LG Monitor App Installer on the Microsoft Store. This installation occurs when an LG monitor is connected, leading to a McAfee pop-up due to automatic installation triggered by Windows Update, which is logged by the Windows Reliability Monitor. Users can prevent this by enabling a setting in the Group Policy Editor to stop automatic downloads of applications linked to device metadata. It is recommended that users who have manually installed the LG monitor app remove it, as McAfee is a core component of the application. Microsoft has not commented on this issue.

Winsage

July 21, 2026

LG admits its monitor app installs bloatware via Windows Update, and Microsoft is letting it happen

A growing number of LG monitor users have reported that connecting their devices to Windows systems results in the automatic installation of the LG Monitor App Installer, which prompts users with a McAfee trial advertisement. YouTuber Gamers Nexus found that connecting an LG UltraGear monitor led to the installation of LG's driver package and the LG Monitor App Installer, with the McAfee pop-up appearing 31 times over 32 boots. This automatic installation is facilitated by device metadata, which Windows uses to download associated applications without user notification. Users must be signed into the Microsoft Store and connected to the internet for this to occur, leading to frustrations about transparency. Reports of unsolicited McAfee pop-ups have been shared on platforms like Reddit, with users confirming the app's installation was logged as part of a Windows Update. LG has acknowledged the inclusion of McAfee in their app updates, promoting a free trial, which has raised privacy concerns. The app's rating on the Microsoft Store has dropped to around 1 out of 5 due to user dissatisfaction. Users can prevent automatic installations by adjusting Group Policy settings, while macOS requires manual approval for third-party applications. Neither Microsoft nor LG has formally addressed the concerns regarding silent installations and McAfee pop-ups.

Winsage

July 21, 2026

LG monitors criticized for silently installing McAfee ads via Windows Update

LG monitors have been reported to automatically install an application promoting paid subscriptions to McAfee antivirus software when connected to Windows PCs. This occurs via the LG Monitor App Installer, which is delivered through Windows Update without user approval. The app installs itself seamlessly upon connection and has been noted to present McAfee promotional offers on 31 out of 32 system boots. It operates with "runFullTrust" permissions, allowing it to launch at startup and display ads after system reboots. Reports of this behavior date back to at least 2024, affecting even older LG monitors. Users can remove the app through Windows Settings and disable startup entries, while Windows Pro and Enterprise users can implement a policy to block automatic downloads of applications linked to device metadata.

Winsage

July 20, 2026

LG Monitors Spotted Installing Adware-Like App on Windows PCs

LG monitors connected to Windows PCs can trigger the automatic installation of the LG Monitor App Installer, which promotes paid subscriptions to McAfee antivirus software without user consent. This app appears shortly after Windows Update installs relevant LG packages, displaying McAfee promotions frequently. The app is designed to launch at startup and operates outside the Windows App Sandbox, raising cybersecurity concerns. Reports indicate that this issue affects both newer and older LG monitor models. Microsoft allows manufacturers to link Store applications with device metadata, enabling such installations without clear user choice. Users can remove the app through Windows Settings, but doing so may block other useful applications. LG and Microsoft have not publicly addressed these concerns.

Winsage

July 20, 2026

LG’s monitors come with an unwanted addition for Windows: McAfee pop-up ads

The LG Monitor App Installer installs itself by default, resulting in unwanted ad notifications for users. When connecting a new LG UltraGear monitor to a Windows 11 PC, the LG driver updates and the Monitor App Installer are installed silently via Windows Update without user notification or permission. The app does not provide unique controls but redirects users to other LG applications and promotes McAfee antivirus. Complaints about the app's auto-installation have increased, particularly regarding large pop-up ads. Microsoft allows developers to pair a Hardware Support App with the Windows Store for automatic installation, but this can confuse users. Similar practices exist with Dell's Alienware Command Center app. Users can prevent the LG app from auto-installing through group policy settings or by opting out of automatic downloads in system settings. The LG Monitor App Installer requests extensive permissions and collects device data, internet activity, and geolocation information without explicit user consent.

Tech Optimizer

July 20, 2026

LG monitors are silently installing adware on your Windows PC

LG has faced criticism for the automatic installation of an application that delivers pop-up advertisements for McAfee antivirus subscriptions when certain LG monitor models are connected to a Windows PC. This issue was highlighted by Gamers Nexus, which reported that the LG Monitor App Installer activates upon connecting models like the LG UltraGear 34GX900A-B and the LG UltraFine 32UN880-B. In a test of 32 system boots, McAfee was promoted in 31 instances. The app can utilize extensive system resources and access internet connections, and LG's privacy policy indicates that user data such as names, phone numbers, birth dates, and online activity may be collected. Complaints about this practice have increased recently, suggesting a broader rollout or more frequent pop-ups. Other manufacturers, including Dell, have faced similar backlash for their software installation methods. Users hope Microsoft will require brands to seek explicit permission before installing utilities, although Microsoft's own history with unsolicited software raises uncertainty about this possibility.