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Windows 11 has 1 billion users
Winsage
February 1, 2026

Windows 11 has 1 billion users

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced that Windows 11 has surpassed 1 billion monthly active users, following the end of support for Windows 10. Despite this milestone, there is significant customer dissatisfaction. Windows chief Pavan Davuluri acknowledged the need for improvements in system performance, reliability, and overall user experience. Recent updates have been problematic, with glitches reported during the first Patch Tuesday update of 2026. The integration of AI features has left some users feeling overwhelmed, while the constant upsell prompts for services like Xbox Game Pass and Microsoft 365 have been criticized as bloatware. Users have also expressed frustration over forced migrations to OneDrive, where files have been deleted without consent. Additionally, there is a notable disparity in support for home users compared to corporate users, raising concerns about Microsoft's commitment to enhancing the consumer experience.
Microsoft Adds Centralized RDP Shortpath Control via GPO and Intune
Winsage
January 30, 2026

Microsoft Adds Centralized RDP Shortpath Control via GPO and Intune

Microsoft has enhanced the management of Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Shortpath, now available through Group Policy Objects (GPO) and Microsoft Intune, allowing IT teams to implement centralized control over RDP Shortpath behavior across Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) session hosts and Windows 365 Cloud PCs. RDP Shortpath improves performance and reliability by establishing a direct, UDP-based network connection, reducing latency and enhancing responsiveness for audio and video applications. Prior to this update, managing RDP Shortpath was fragmented, requiring manual adjustments on individual session hosts, which complicated consistent networking behavior. The new centralized configuration allows administrators to enforce Shortpath settings uniformly, reducing administrative overhead and ensuring consistent performance and security controls. Administrators can manage RDP Shortpath settings centrally, control all Shortpath modes, and ensure compatibility with AVD host pool settings. Effective operation of RDP Shortpath requires appropriate network conditions, and policy changes necessitate a restart of session hosts or Cloud PCs.
I couldn't survive the Mörk Borg PC game for more than five minutes
AppWizard
January 30, 2026

I couldn’t survive the Mörk Borg PC game for more than five minutes

Mörk Borg Heresy Supreme released a demo on January 23, featuring a dark Gothic aesthetic and punishing gameplay. The game retains the essence of the original tabletop RPG while transforming it into an arcade-style hack-and-slash adventure. Character creation includes randomly generated heroes, with an option to re-roll for a better build. The tutorial introduces mechanics gradually, but can feel incomplete. The map is accessed via the M key, which is crucial for navigation, and the control layout is considered unintuitive. Quick reflexes are essential due to the game's high difficulty, with players facing immediate character deaths. The game displays a "FAILURE" message upon death, indicating survival time. The full release is expected in Q1 2026, and the visuals and soundtrack pay homage to the RPG's heavy metal roots.
It's not a myth – Capcom has fixed Monster Hunter Wilds, and I even tested it to find out
AppWizard
January 30, 2026

It’s not a myth – Capcom has fixed Monster Hunter Wilds, and I even tested it to find out

Capcom has released a significant patch for Monster Hunter Wilds aimed at improving performance, particularly on PC. The update addresses performance issues, resulting in smoother gameplay with reduced stutters and more stable frame rates across various system configurations. A new CPU options menu allows players to fine-tune settings, reducing the burden on processors. The patch reduces VRAM usage, benefiting players with 8GB GPUs, including those using devices like the Legion Go S handheld. While frame rate boosts may vary, the patch improves the 1% lows, leading to a more consistent experience. Players with high-performance rigs report maintaining around 60 fps during intense battles at a resolution of 3440x1440, achieving frame rates between 62 and 75 fps without frame generation technology. The patch also enables effective use of frame generation, doubling frame rates without sacrificing smoothness. Capcom plans to release additional performance patches in the future.
eScan Antivirus Update Server Hacked to Push Malicious Update packages
Tech Optimizer
January 29, 2026

eScan Antivirus Update Server Hacked to Push Malicious Update packages

A supply chain breach has affected MicroWorld Technologies' eScan antivirus product, allowing malicious actors to use the vendor's update infrastructure to spread malware. Discovered on January 20, 2026, by Morphisec, the attack involved a trojanized update package that deployed multi-stage malware on enterprise and consumer endpoints globally. The initial compromise occurred through a malicious update replacing the legitimate Reload.exe binary, which was digitally signed with a valid eScan certificate. This led to the execution of a downloader (CONSCTLX.exe) and further malware stages that evaded defenses and disabled security features. The malware obstructs automatic updates by altering system configurations, including the hosts file and registry keys. Indicators of compromise include specific file names and SHA-256 hashes for the trojanized update and downloader. Network administrators are advised to block traffic to identified command and control domains and IPs. Affected organizations should verify their systems for signs of compromise and contact MicroWorld Technologies for a manual patch.
Four classic Final Fantasy games get the DRM-free treatment from GOG, and they're 60% off if you're fast
AppWizard
January 29, 2026

Four classic Final Fantasy games get the DRM-free treatment from GOG, and they’re 60% off if you’re fast

Four Final Fantasy titles have been released on GOG, offering a DRM-free experience and a 60% discount until February 7. The titles are Final Fantasy 9, FF8 Remastered, FF4 3D Edition, and FF3 3D Edition, priced at .39 / £4.49 for FF3 and FF4, .39 for FF8, and .39 for FF9. These games are compatible with current Windows PC configurations and include tech support.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
January 29, 2026

Nobody wants a massive Windows 11 Start menu. Let us resize it, say users, as Microsoft monitors feedback

The redesign of the Windows 11 Start menu has received mixed feedback, with users appreciating the upgrade but expressing concerns about its size and lack of customization options. Many users have reported that the Start menu can occupy up to 70% of the screen, with some configurations covering nearly 90% of the display. Users are requesting the ability to resize the Start menu, similar to the controls available in Windows 10. Microsoft has acknowledged this feedback and is monitoring user responses, though there is currently no immediate plan to implement a resize button. The new design allows sections within the Start menu to be responsive, but the overall size of the menu itself does not change. The Start menu is still being rolled out, with most users seeing it following the December 2025 update.
Windows 11’s Gaming Gains Overshadowed by Stability Crisis: Performance Tests Reveal a Troubled Transition
Winsage
January 29, 2026

Windows 11’s Gaming Gains Overshadowed by Stability Crisis: Performance Tests Reveal a Troubled Transition

Microsoft's Windows 11 version 24H2 shows performance improvements in gaming, with frame rate enhancements ranging from 2% to 8% across various titles, particularly benefiting newer DirectX 12 games. However, users report significant stability issues, including Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, crashes during gameplay, and compatibility problems with certain hardware and software. These issues affect a wide range of systems, suggesting systemic challenges rather than isolated incidents. The operating system's hardware compatibility requirements, such as TPM 2.0 support, have also limited upgrade eligibility for many users. Microsoft has acknowledged specific issues related to Intel and AMD processors, antivirus software conflicts, and outdated drivers. Despite ongoing patch deployments, user frustration persists due to the slow pace of fixes. The stability concerns have led some businesses to delay Windows 11 24H2 deployments, prioritizing reliability over performance gains. The driver ecosystem's lag in updates from hardware manufacturers has further complicated stability. The gaming community remains divided, with many users opting to stay on Windows 10 due to these stability risks.
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