compatibility problems Archives

Winsage

July 30, 2025

Windows 10’s forced updates: A history of disastrous consequences

The transition to Windows 10 marked the end of Windows 7 and was initially celebrated by Microsoft, but users soon faced numerous problems due to mandatory updates. Issues included boot loops, the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), and data loss, leading Microsoft to delay a major feature upgrade by over six months. In August 2015, a major update caused widespread reboot loops due to corrupted user profiles, requiring complex fixes. The October 2018 update infamously deleted user files and introduced various bugs, taking nearly six months for Microsoft to resolve. In March 2020, another update caused boot hangs and BSODs, prompting many users to uninstall it. In May 2023, a security update bricked PCs and caused connectivity issues. The October 2020 updates led to installation errors, system slowdowns, and compatibility problems. In October 2021, Windows 10 users were encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11, facing hardware compatibility issues. The forced updates have resulted in significant user dissatisfaction, though the option to pause updates has provided some relief.

Winsage

July 27, 2025

Microsoft: Windows 11 24H2 now works with Easy Anti-Cheat (Fortnite), won’t cause BSODs anymore

Windows 11 24H2 is now available to users, with automatic updates for those on older versions like Windows 11 23H2. Initially, the update was blocked for some Intel PC users running games like Fortnite due to compatibility issues with Easy Anti-Cheat. Microsoft has resolved these compatibility concerns as of July 25, confirming that the upgrade is now accessible to all users after nearly ten months of collaboration with Epic Games. The block primarily affected Intel Alder and Intel vPro processors, and while the specific update that fixed the issues was not detailed, it is suggested to be included in the July 2025 Patch Tuesday (KB5062553). Users with Intel vPro (Core i7) systems reported that the update appeared automatically after this patch. Additionally, some users with Ryzen processors also faced similar problems, although this was not widely acknowledged. Users who experienced a Blue Screen of Death error (Memory_Management code) while installing Windows 11 24H2 with Fortnite are advised to uninstall Easy Anti-Cheat and reinstall drivers if issues persist. Support for Windows 11 23H2 will end on November 11, 2025, prompting users to prepare for the upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 proactively. The "Pause updates" feature has been reported to be unreliable, potentially allowing mandatory updates to install unexpectedly.

Winsage

June 28, 2025

Mercedes-AMG Might Be Having a Windows Vista Moment With These Four-Cylinder Hybrids

Microsoft's Windows Vista, released in 2007, faced significant user dissatisfaction due to performance issues, compatibility problems, and crashes, despite its advanced features. Similarly, Mercedes-AMG's introduction of four-cylinder plug-in hybrid vehicles has led to discontent among enthusiasts, who miss the auditory excitement typical of high-performance cars. Reports indicate that Mercedes is shifting back to inline-sixes and V8 engines due to this disconnect with traditional customers. The four-cylinder AMG models, launched in 2022, may have a short legacy, with fewer than 100,000 units sold. AMG's boss, Michael Schiebe, acknowledged the need for better communication about the technology to customers and salespeople. The criticisms of the new models highlight a lack of the expected sound experience that performance car enthusiasts value.

AppWizard

June 8, 2025

I used a self-hosted app to track all my receipts and it’s shockingly good

Receipt Wrangler is a self-hosted tool for managing receipts that offers a straightforward installation process and an intuitive user interface. It allows users to rename, tag, group, and search receipts easily, creating a consistent and searchable archive. The app prioritizes user experience by placing essential functions prominently and supports flexible tagging systems for personalized organization. Receipt Wrangler can connect to self-hosted AI models or external services for automatic scanning and tagging of receipts. Its self-hosting feature ensures data security and ownership, allowing users to back up their information as needed. The tool has transformed the receipt management process into a more efficient and enjoyable experience, encouraging timely filing and reducing procrastination.

Winsage

April 25, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 shows signs of life: what can we expect?

The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update is expected to be a modest enhancement rather than a major overhaul, continuing to use the Germanium codebase established with 24H2. A preview build, specifically build 27842 from the Canary Channel, has been identified, and references to GE25H2 were found in the AppraiserRes.dll file, which assesses PC compatibility for the new version. The update is anticipated to arrive in the latter half of the year, similar to previous incremental updates. Concerns exist regarding the stability of 25H2 compared to 24H2, which faced installation issues and compatibility problems. Windows 10 will reach the end of regular support on October 14, 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11. Smaller updates like enablement packages tend to present fewer stability risks, and Microsoft has not officially confirmed any details about 25H2 or its update process for versions 23H2 and 24H2. Speculation about Windows 12 continues, but its timeline remains uncertain.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

Microsoft fixes Windows Server 2025 blue screen, install issues

Microsoft has addressed issues affecting Windows Server 2025 for systems with more than 256 logical processors, which could lead to installation failures, slow start-up times, and blue screen errors. These problems have been resolved through updates since the KB5046617 cumulative update released in November. IT administrators are advised to install the latest security updates, which include essential fixes. A temporary workaround involves limiting the number of logical processors to 256 or fewer by adjusting settings in the UEFI Setup. Additionally, Microsoft warned of potential accessibility issues with Windows Server 2025 domain controllers post-restart and reported login difficulties with Windows Hello after the April 2025 updates. A bug causing authentication issues with Credential Guard has been fixed, and a new safeguard hold for Windows 11 24H2 has been introduced due to compatibility problems with the SenseShield Technology's sprotect.sys driver.

Winsage

April 18, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 Update Bug Triggers BSOD Error

Microsoft has acknowledged a significant bug in its Windows 11 24H2 updates, causing Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) crashes with the error code “SECUREKERNELERROR” (0x18B). This issue has escalated since the April 2025 Patch Tuesday update, affecting thousands of users globally. The bug leads to system crashes after installing the updates, resulting in persistent crash-restart loops or unbootable systems. Initially reported in March 2025, the problem gained traction following the April update, prompting Microsoft to confirm the bug and investigate its cause. Other issues include failures with Windows Hello and compatibility problems with games and software, particularly on ARM-based devices. To address the crisis, Microsoft has implemented a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to disable the problematic code, which is being automatically pushed to affected devices, although users may experience a delay of up to 24 hours. Users are advised to keep their devices connected to the internet and restart their PCs multiple times to expedite the fix. For enterprise environments, IT administrators must manually deploy a specific Group Policy update. Microsoft is working on a permanent solution, expected in a future update, while also acknowledging related issues and committing to further fixes in the upcoming May 2025 update.

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.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

How to Uninstall Problematic Windows Updates Easily: Microsoft Customer Service

Windows updates can enhance performance and security but may also cause issues such as system crashes, compatibility problems, or decreased performance. If these problems occur, uninstalling the problematic update can restore system functionality. To uninstall a Windows update, users can follow these steps: 1. Access Windows Update History: - Open Windows Settings and select Update & Security. - Click on Windows Update and then View update history. 2. Uninstall the Problematic Update: - In the update history, click on Uninstall updates. - Select the problematic update and click Uninstall, then restart the computer. 3. Use Control Panel to Uninstall Updates: - Open Control Panel and click Programs. - Click on View installed updates, select the update, and click Uninstall. 4. Use Safe Mode to Uninstall Updates: - Boot into Safe Mode by navigating to Update & Security > Recovery and selecting Restart now under Advanced startup. - After restarting, follow the previous steps to uninstall the update. 5. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter: - Open Settings, navigate to Update & Security, and select Troubleshoot. - Click on Additional troubleshooters, select Windows Update, and run the troubleshooter. 6. Use System Restore to Undo Updates: - Access System Restore by searching for Create a restore point. - Follow instructions to select a restore point prior to the problematic update. 7. Prevent Future Problematic Updates: - Pause updates temporarily in Windows Update settings. - Use the Show or Hide Updates tool to block specific updates from installation. For persistent issues, users can contact Microsoft support via phone, live chat, or their support website for further assistance.

Winsage

March 13, 2025

No, your printer isn’t possessed: a Windows 11 23H2 bug could be making it print random characters when connected via USB

Microsoft's Windows 11 24H2 update has numerous bugs, leading many users to stick with the earlier 23H2 version. A specific issue reported with the KB5050092 preview update in 23H2 involves USB-connected printers producing pages filled with random characters upon startup, and disconnecting the printer does not resolve the problem. Users not reliant on USB printers may prefer 23H2, which lacks severe bugs found in 24H2. Gamers have faced challenges with Bluetooth connectivity and game compatibility issues, particularly with Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed, which required a game update. Recent Nvidia Game Ready Drivers have further complicated the situation for gamers.