automatic updates Archives

Winsage

September 16, 2026

Harden Windows Defender: 12 Steps, 99.9% [2026]

Windows 11 includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which operates in the background and receives automatic updates. Its default settings focus on compatibility rather than maximum security, prompting the need for configuration to enhance protection. Prerequisites for configuration include: - Windows 11 version 24H2 or 25H2 - Fully patched build number (26100.9457 or newer) - Local administrator account for certain steps - Microsoft Defender Antivirus version 4.18.x - Windows PowerShell 5.1 run as Administrator - Stable internet connection - No active third-party antivirus software Steps to enhance Microsoft Defender include: 1. Confirming the current Windows 11 build. 2. Verifying that Defender is the active antivirus using PowerShell. 3. Enabling cloud-delivered protection and automatic sample submission via PowerShell commands. 4. Activating Tamper Protection through Windows Security. 5. Enabling Controlled Folder Access to protect against ransomware. 6. Deploying Attack Surface Reduction rules in audit mode. 7. Turning on Smart App Control. 8. Enabling Core Isolation and Memory Integrity. 9. Scheduling weekly full and offline scans. 10. Creating narrow exclusions for known safe applications. 11. Enhancing network protection and SmartScreen features. 12. Running a PowerShell verification script to audit settings. These steps aim to optimize Microsoft Defender Antivirus for improved security comparable to premium solutions.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

How to manually update Android Auto (and what it might mean if you can’t)

The Android Auto application is available on the Google Play Store and relies on smartphones for its features. It receives updates automatically, but users can manually check for updates if needed. Android 9.0 or higher is required for the latest updates. To force an update, users can reset the app by clearing its storage, which does not affect other apps. If issues persist, users can revert to the original version of Android Auto by uninstalling updates.

Winsage

September 15, 2026

30 Days Until Windows 11 24H2 Support Ends; Excel Paste Glitch Surfaces Simultaneously

Microsoft announced on September 14 that the Windows 11 24H2 edition, including Home and Pro versions, has only 30 days of support remaining, with a deadline for updates set for October 13, 2026. Users are encouraged to upgrade to version 25H2 or later to continue receiving security updates. The Enterprise and Education editions will have support until October 12, 2027. Users have reported issues from September's security updates, particularly with the Office patch KB5002914, which disrupts the copy-and-paste function in Excel across multiple versions. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue but has not yet released a fix. A temporary workaround involves manually removing the problematic patch, though this also removes the associated security fixes. Additionally, users have experienced connection drops and unresponsiveness in Remote Desktop Services (RDS) across various Windows versions, including Windows 11 26H1 and Windows Server 2012. Microsoft confirmed that related tools may also stop responding, and restarting virtual machines may temporarily restore functionality. USB audio issues have been reported on certain USB Audio Class 1.0 devices across Windows 11 versions, with users experiencing loss of audio output and corrupted sound settings. Switching to 2-channel mode has helped some users, but Microsoft has not provided a timeline for a comprehensive fix. As Windows Server 2012 nears the end of its Extended Security Updates period on October 13, 2026, the RDS issues add pressure on administrators. Users on 24H2 need to prioritize migration to 25H2, while those with the latest updates should be cautious regarding Excel and Remote Desktop functionalities.

AppWizard

September 15, 2026

Where to Install Modified Android Games and Apps Safely?

Modified applications, or modded apps, for Android are distributed as .APK files and are installed manually rather than through app stores. These apps are altered versions of original applications, which may include changes in design, functionality, or the removal of restrictions. Users should be cautious when downloading modded APKs from third-party websites, as these can pose security risks. It is important to verify the website's reliability by checking for contact information, a privacy policy, and installation instructions. Users should scan APKs for security threats before installation and examine the permissions requested by the app. Maintaining an updated operating system and security applications is essential for protecting personal data. Modded applications may not receive regular updates, increasing the need for users to check for newer versions. Respecting developers' rights and avoiding unauthorized access to premium features is crucial to mitigate risks.

Winsage

September 14, 2026

Microsoft patches Windows and Excel – breaks audio, remote access, and paste

Microsoft's recent security updates have caused disruptions in several areas: 1. Remote Desktop Services (RDS): Users on Windows 11 26H1 and Windows Server 2012 are experiencing connectivity issues, including failed connections, freezing servers, and unresponsive tools like Microsoft Management Console (MMC). A temporary solution involves restarting the virtual machine, and Microsoft is working on a fix. 2. USB Audio Devices: Problems have been reported with USB Audio Class 1.0 devices on Windows 11 26H1, 25H2, and 24H2, leading to audio issues. A workaround includes switching to two-channel mode, and Microsoft is addressing the situation. 3. Excel Functionality: A fix for vulnerabilities in Excel has disrupted the paste operation across versions 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2024, leaving users unable to paste content correctly. Some users have resolved the issue by uninstalling and reinstalling Office or using commands to remove the security update, though this also removes the associated security fixes.

AppWizard

September 12, 2026

Google Releases Android Auto 17.7 for All Users, Here’s How To Install It

Google has launched Android Auto version 17.7, available through the stable channel. Users can manually install the update by downloading the APK installer. The update includes a new green icon for Android Auto, particularly for Google Pixel 10 Pro XL users, but lacks significant front-facing changes. Previous features, such as a new weather experience with an animated raccoon character, are still in development and not included. A more substantial update is expected by the end of the year, introducing widgets and support for video applications. The complete build for the current update is Android Auto 17.7.6636.

AppWizard

September 11, 2026

Another New Android Auto Feature Is Mysteriously Gone

In recent months, the wavy progress bar feature in music applications on Android Auto, which replaced the traditional straight line, has disappeared for some users, particularly affecting Spotify. This feature was introduced to enhance the user interface but did not provide significant functional benefits. Users have reported that the wavy design reverts to a straight line when the app is in full-screen mode, while it appears on the Coolwalk screen. Additionally, Google Maps has stopped displaying a speedometer, which users find frustrating. There are calls for Google to implement a toggle feature for the progress bar design preference. The latest version of Android Auto, build 17.6, is currently available, with updates expected soon.

Winsage

September 10, 2026

Windows 11’s last Secure Boot deadline is weeks away, here’s what you must do

Microsoft is continuing the rollout of Secure Boot certificate updates, with the next significant deadline on October 19, 2026, when the Microsoft Windows Production PCA 2011 certificate expires. The September 2026 Patch Tuesday update has expanded eligibility for Secure Boot certificates to more PCs classified as “high confidence.” Users may need to reboot their PCs to install these updates, and some may require firmware updates beforehand. Microsoft has confirmed that the update process will persist beyond established deadlines, and older certificates are expiring in stages, with the first two deadlines having already passed. Users should ensure they have the latest updates installed and check their Secure Boot status in Windows Security. Microsoft has assured that PCs without the newer certificates will continue to boot normally and receive standard updates while the rollout continues.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Google Wallet will now let you add physical transit cards and balances with NFC

Google has released version 26.35 of Google Play Services, which includes the ability to integrate physical transit cards into Google Wallet using NFC technology, allowing users to access public transportation with NFC-enabled Android devices. This feature requires an NFC chip in the device. The update also includes a redesigned “Add a card” success screen in the Wallet app. Additionally, Google has launched version 53.1 of the Google Play Store app, featuring a short description of key features for similar apps, the ability to see which devices have specific apps installed, and a new navigation bar for exploring interests. Users can access updates for Google System Services through their device settings or enable automatic updates.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Waze Users Lose Key Navigation Information on Android Auto, Update at Fault

A recent update to Android Auto, version 17.5, has caused a glitch in the Waze navigation app, preventing users from seeing essential trip information such as estimated time of arrival (ETA), distance to destination, and remaining travel time when Waze is displayed in full-screen mode. The information is visible when Waze is shown in the Coolwalk screen alongside other applications. Some users have noted that the journey information briefly reappears during Waze alerts but disappears after the alert is dismissed. There is currently no identified workaround, but users are considering reverting to a previous version of Android Auto or Waze to resolve the issue. Google has not officially acknowledged the glitch, but a Community Specialist has requested additional information from users to assist in diagnosing the problem. Meanwhile, Google Maps remains a reliable alternative for navigation.