Boot

Winsage
June 5, 2026
Valve’s Steam Machine is set for release in early 2026 and will run on Valve’s Linux-based Steam OS. Gamers can build a custom Windows-based gaming PC inspired by the Steam Machine using components like an AMD Ryzen CPU, Asus RX960 XT Radeon GPU, and 16GB+ RAM. Installing Windows allows for broader game compatibility, while Steam’s Big Picture Mode offers a console-like interface. The custom build process involves selecting appropriate hardware, assembling it, and optimizing performance for modern games. Building a custom Steam Machine provides insights into hardware assembly and system optimization, resulting in a portable, high-performance gaming solution.
Winsage
June 4, 2026
Microsoft has announced updates to Secure Boot, enhancing system security by modifying support and registry keys to streamline the boot process. These updates aim to improve the security of Windows devices by ensuring that only trusted software is loaded during startup. Collaborations with Dell and STMicroelectronics are also underway to provide tailored support and integrate advanced security features into chipsets, respectively.
Winsage
June 3, 2026
The tech community has long awaited the "Year of the Linux Desktop," but Linux has struggled to gain mainstream market share. Valve's SteamOS and the Steam Deck have shown that consumers are open to Linux for gaming. The upcoming Steam Machine aims to present Linux in a console-like format, booting directly into Steam and offering a user-friendly interface while still providing access to a full desktop mode. This approach allows users to engage with Linux without recognizing it as the underlying operating system. Valve has improved Linux gaming compatibility through initiatives like Proton, making it more accessible. However, the Steam Machine faces challenges related to hardware costs and the risk of obsolescence due to rapidly evolving technology. If successful, the Steam Machine could redefine Linux adoption by introducing it into homes through entertainment rather than direct competition with Windows.
Winsage
June 1, 2026
Microsoft has identified the root cause of installation issues related to the May 2026 update for Windows operating system and is rolling out a solution through an optional update, KB5089573. The May 12, 2026, Patch Tuesday update (KB5089549) introduced enhancements but many users faced installation failures due to error code “0x800f0922,” indicating insufficient space on the EFI System Partition (ESP). The ESP is critical for boot files and typically occupies around 256MB. Users can check ESP storage using a specific command. Low ESP space can lead to update failures, particularly when it drops below 10MB. Microsoft has rolled back problematic code and provided a fix in the optional update KB5089573, which resolves ESP space issues and ensures future updates will proceed smoothly. Users are encouraged to install this update or wait for the next scheduled Patch Tuesday update on June 9, 2026.
Winsage
May 31, 2026
Microsoft is set to introduce a feature for Windows 11 called Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery (CIDR), which will automatically revert problematic driver updates to stable versions via Windows Update. This feature aims to improve user experience by eliminating the need for manual uninstallation of faulty drivers. CIDR will monitor drivers and, if a driver is found to be problematic, it can initiate a remote rollback to restore a stable version. The process will not require additional software installations or changes to existing workflows for hardware manufacturers. The automated rollback will specifically target only the affected hardware components, ensuring other drivers and system functions remain unaffected. Initial testing for CIDR is scheduled between May and August 2026, with a broader rollout expected in September 2026.
AppWizard
May 30, 2026
Activision is offering a 10% pre-order loyalty discount for previous owners of the Call of Duty® franchise on the Modern Warfare® 4 Vault Edition. Pre-ordering any digital edition grants early access to the Open Beta and the Hunter Killer Operator Skin for use in Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 and Call of Duty®: Warzone™. The Vault Edition includes Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 4, the Hostile Alliance Operator Pack, the Special Forces Operator Pack, a Signature Weapon Collection, a BlackCell (1 Season) with a Battle Pass and additional content, and a DMZ Deployment Bonus. The game is set during a full-scale invasion on the Korean Peninsula, featuring a narrative involving South Korean soldiers and Captain Price. Gameplay includes various combat scenarios, a multiplayer mode focused on grounded combat, and a DMZ mode where players make critical decisions. Modern Warfare® 4 will be available on Xbox Series X|S and PC, but not on Xbox One, and online multiplayer requires a Game Pass Essential subscription and specific PC security requirements.
Winsage
May 29, 2026
An enthusiastic user of the IBM ThinkPad T43 has successfully installed nearly all versions of Windows from NT 4 to 10 22H2 on the device, complete with driver support, without using virtual machines. The ThinkPad T43, released in 2005, was IBM's last laptop model before the company was acquired by Lenovo. The user documented their process on Reddit, showcasing a gallery of screenshots of various Windows versions. The T43 originally came with Windows XP and has key components including an Intel Pentium M processor, ATi Mobility Radeon X300 or X300SE graphics, a 14.1-inch screen, support for up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, and storage options from 40GB to 100GB HDD. It also features connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and various ports. The laptop is noted for its robust build quality and exceptional keyboard, weighing approximately 2.3 kg (5.1 pounds).
Winsage
May 28, 2026
A Secure Boot certificate refresh is being deployed across supported Windows devices via Windows Update. The Secure Boot certificates from 2011 will begin to expire in June 2026, prompting Microsoft to introduce new 2023-dated certificates to maintain security. Most users will require minimal action if their PCs are updated, but older devices may face challenges. The current certificates include: - Microsoft Corporation KEK CA 2011: expires June 24, 2026 - Microsoft UEFI CA 2011: expires June 27, 2026 - Microsoft Windows Production PCA 2011: expires October 19, 2026 The new certificates will remain valid until 2038, with plans for post-quantum cryptography around 2030. While PCs using the 2011 certificates will continue to function, they will lose access to new security protections, making them vulnerable to emerging threats. A notable example of such a threat is the BlackLotus bootkit, which exploited vulnerabilities to bypass Secure Boot. Microsoft's rollout strategy involves a staged update process that typically takes around 48 hours and may require restarts. Users are advised to keep Windows updated and check their Secure Boot status. Known issues may arise for older PCs, systems that bypassed Windows 11 requirements, Legacy BIOS systems, and custom firmware configurations. IT teams managing devices should inventory their systems, monitor specific event IDs, test updates, and document devices that cannot be updated.
Winsage
May 28, 2026
ReactOS has successfully booted on ARM64 architecture, marking a significant milestone for the project aimed at recreating Windows NT. This experimental build has been demonstrated running on ARM64 via QEMU and on the Raspberry Pi 5. The ARM64 port is currently a proof of concept with limited functionality, and users need a UEFI ARM64 system with GICv2 or v3 enabled to run it. The ReactOS team has emphasized the experimental nature of this development, and the project is still focused on compatibility with Windows Server 2003. ReactOS is described as "an alpha-quality operating system," intended for users willing to experiment on less critical devices.
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