disk space Archives

Winsage

August 10, 2026

Which Windows 11 Update Is Causing Problems in 2026? – TheZeroNet

KB5094126, released in June 2026, is causing significant issues for Windows 11 users, including BSODs, boot failures, BitLocker lockouts, and problems launching Office applications. This update has particularly affected HP enterprise hardware, leading to BitLocker recovery loops and black screens. The issues stem from disk space limitations related to Secure Boot certificate handling and restricted EFI partition space. Affected users are advised to locate their BitLocker recovery keys and consider workarounds, such as launching Office applications directly. Windows 10 users are also experiencing similar problems due to the related update KB5094127. Microsoft is expected to release fixes in subsequent updates, including KB5101650 in July 2026.

Winsage

August 8, 2026

Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge could quietly download up to 20GB AI models on Windows 11

Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome are phasing out support for Manifest V2 extensions, affecting popular add-ons like uBlock Origin. Google Chrome can automatically download a 4GB AI model for local functionalities, requiring approximately 20GB of free disk space for the download. Microsoft Edge has established a similar 20GB minimum storage requirement for downloading local AI models, with additional specifications including Windows 10 or 11 and macOS 13.3 or later, at least 5.5GB of VRAM, and an unmetered network connection. Users can disable on-device AI features in Chrome, and Edge will automatically delete the AI model if available storage drops below 10GB.

Winsage

August 5, 2026

This free Windows 11 tool can rescue your PC when things go wrong

System Restore is a recovery feature in Windows that allows users to revert their systems to a previous state by creating snapshots of the current configuration. It captures crucial system components such as Windows system files, Registry settings, device drivers, and installed applications, but does not back up personal files. Windows automatically generates restore points during significant events or after a week without new points, and users can manually create them before making substantial changes. Restore points occupy hard drive space, and the oldest points are deleted when storage is full. To use System Restore, users can configure it in the System Properties window, create restore points, view and select restore points, preview changes, and initiate the restoration process. After restoration, the PC reboots, and users should check if issues are resolved.

Tech Optimizer

July 28, 2026

ClamAV Setup: Linux Antivirus in 12 Steps [2026]

Malware can threaten Linux systems, which are often mistakenly believed to be immune to viruses. It can be introduced through email attachments, infected files, or compromised plugins, especially when Linux servers interact with Windows clients or handle internet uploads. ClamAV is an open-source antivirus engine maintained by Cisco Talos, designed for scanning mail traffic and file uploads. As of mid-2026, the stable release is ClamAV 1.5.x, with version 1.5.2 being the latest patch. To deploy ClamAV, users need root or sudo access on a compatible Linux machine, at least 2 vCPUs and 2GB of RAM, 5GB of free disk space, and outbound HTTPS access to ClamAV’s signature mirrors. The installation process involves several steps, including configuring freshclam for automatic updates, validating detection with the EICAR test file, and setting up cron jobs for regular scans. ClamAV can also be integrated with mail servers and a SIEM for enhanced security. Common pitfalls in deployment include skipping the initial freshclam run and using clamscan instead of clamdscan for repeated scans. ClamAV is free for commercial use and can also scan Windows systems, although it does not replace comprehensive endpoint protection solutions.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

3 Windows settings that can make or break your PC

Windows 11 includes various settings that can significantly affect computer productivity and performance. 1. Windows Power Mode: This feature allows users to select performance settings under Settings > System > Power & battery. Options include “Best Power Efficiency,” “Best Performance,” and “Balanced.” For an Intel Core 300 laptop, power consumption varies as follows: - Performance mode: 30W sustained, 60W boost - Balanced mode: 25W sustained, 60W boost - Efficiency mode: 15W sustained, 20W boost Switching from “Balanced” to “Performance” mode can increase performance by 5%, while “Efficiency” mode can save up to 50% battery life with an 18% performance drop. 2. Storage Sense: Found under Settings > System > Storage, this feature automatically cleans up unnecessary files to maintain optimal SSD performance. It activates when free disk space falls below a certain threshold and can be manually triggered. Users can configure it to manage the Downloads folder and convert locally stored files backed up to OneDrive into cloud-only files. 3. OneDrive and Windows Backup: OneDrive syncs files between the cloud and PC, which can slow down performance, especially on asymmetric broadband connections. Users can adjust backup preferences through the OneDrive icon in the Action Center, but Windows may not always respect these settings, potentially leading to unwanted file re-downloads.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

14 Easy Fixes to Make Windows 11 Feel Faster

Many Windows 11 PCs experience performance decline over time due to background processes and unnecessary files. To enhance performance without reinstalling Windows, consider the following strategies: 1. Uninstall unnecessary software (bloatware) via the Start menu or Installed Apps section. 2. Limit startup processes using Task Manager to disable rarely used applications. 3. Clean up disk space by enabling Windows' Storage Sense for automatic cleanup. 4. Check for viruses and spyware using Microsoft Defender or dedicated malware removal software. 5. Change power settings to Best Performance in Settings > System > Power & Battery. 6. Identify and fix resource-hogging processes using Task Manager. 7. Keep Windows updated by checking Settings > Windows Update. 8. Run troubleshooting utilities by searching for "troubleshoot" in the Start menu. 9. Use Microsoft PC Manager for a one-click performance optimization. 10. Consider adding more RAM if your device allows it. 11. Install an SSD for faster application launches and improved startup times. 12. Adjust system appearance settings for Best Performance. 13. Ensure adequate cooling to prevent overheating. 14. Turn off search indexing to free up system resources. 15. Disable Windows' Tips and manage notifications to reduce processing demands. 16. Enable Game Mode in Settings > Gaming for optimized gaming performance.

Tech Optimizer

July 22, 2026

Advanced SystemCare 19 Cleaned 3GB Hidden Junk From My PC

The user experienced a slow computer with prolonged startup times and storage shortages despite manual cleanup efforts, including emptying the Recycle Bin and using Windows Disk Cleanup. A deeper system scan revealed hidden junk files such as temporary files, browser cache, and outdated logs. The user then utilized Advanced SystemCare 19 Free, which effectively identified and removed 3GB of junk files, resulting in improved startup speed, program launch times, and overall performance. Advanced SystemCare also includes features like a registry cleaner, large file finder, disk cleaner, and app/extension cleaner, and it serves as a comprehensive system optimization suite with tools for enhancing boot time and protecting privacy. The software does not delete files automatically and should be used alongside antivirus software for complete protection.

Winsage

July 20, 2026

July 2026 Patch Tuesday: KB5101650 Windows 11 Update

On July 14, 2026, Microsoft released cumulative update KB5101650 for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, addressing OS Builds 26200.8875 and 26100.8875. This update includes essential security fixes, updates to Secure Boot certificates, and enhanced Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) defenses against phishing attacks. It consolidates July 2026's security content, addressing known vulnerabilities and introducing functional improvements. The update is critical for minimizing exposure to identified threats and is prioritized for systems managing remote access or nearing certificate expiration. The update enhances Remote Desktop security by supporting SHA-2 certificate thumbprints while retaining SHA-1 for legacy compatibility. It includes new Group Policy options to mitigate phishing risks associated with malicious .rdp files. The curl upgrade to version 8.21.0 incorporates security patches for command-line tools in Windows environments. Secure Boot certificates are automatically updated through Windows updates, ensuring boot security across various hardware. KB5101650 installs primarily through the Windows Update interface, requiring a restart to activate changes. Enterprise environments can use the Microsoft Update Catalog for manual distribution. A temporary restriction affects certain Dell devices with Intel Innovation Platform Framework drivers, which Microsoft plans to address in a future update. The cumulative update resolves a total of 622 Microsoft CVEs, including 416 affecting Windows components. Users are advised to verify and install the update promptly to secure the full suite of improvements.

Winsage

July 19, 2026

The 200GB catch hiding in Windows 11’s new recovery feature

Microsoft has introduced point-in-time restore for Windows 11 users, enhancing the traditional System Restore. This new recovery tool allows users to recover their PCs from software issues, problematic drivers, or faulty updates, even when Windows won’t boot. It uses the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) to automatically generate restore points every 24 hours, which include both system and user files, unlike System Restore. Point-in-time restore manages storage by deleting restore points after 72 hours and integrates seamlessly into Windows Settings, being activated by default for volumes over 200GB. Users with smaller volumes must activate it manually. It also incorporates Reserved Storage to ensure restore points do not consume regular disk space. The feature is available on Windows 11 Home and Pro editions with the installation of the optional Preview Update KB5095093. Users can access point-in-time restore through Windows Settings under System > Recovery, and initiate recovery via the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE).

Winsage

July 18, 2026

Microsoft finally lets you pause Windows 11 updates until the exact date you want, and more, in latest patch

Microsoft has released a significant update for Windows 11 in July 2026, which includes user control over automatic updates, allowing users to pause updates for 1 to 35 days. The update addresses 570 bug fixes and introduces an automatic snapshot feature for system recovery, retaining system states for up to 72 hours, requiring 50GB of storage on devices with at least 200GB of disk space. Bluetooth functionality has improved, particularly in audio performance and synchronization. A new screen tint feature allows for custom colors and intensities for night viewing. The update is available for download, but some features may be rolled out gradually, and Dell PC owners may experience delays due to a USB connectivity bug. Additionally, Microsoft is streamlining Windows Search by removing sponsored content.