download and install Archives

Winsage

August 12, 2026

Microsoft fixes 421 bugs and a Windows zero-day in August Patch Tuesday

Microsoft's August Patch Tuesday update addressed 421 vulnerabilities across various products, including multiple versions of Windows (11 25H2/24H2, 11 23H2, and 10). A critical zero-day flaw, the "Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," allows attackers with lower-level access to gain system privileges without user interaction. Additionally, the update addresses two other zero-day flaws, including the "Windows User Profile Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," which has not yet been exploited but was publicly disclosed. The update is mandatory and should automatically install on supported PCs, with users encouraged to verify its application. The update also includes minor improvements to Windows features, such as enhancements to File Explorer, Windows Hello, Voice Access, and touchpad controls.

Winsage

August 8, 2026

Will Windows 11’s new setup let you bypass the Microsoft account? Not on the list, at least for now

Microsoft has announced enhancements to the out-of-box experience (OOBE) for Windows 11, aiming to streamline the setup process before the end of 2026. The current setup requires a Microsoft account and an internet connection, eliminating the option for a local account, which was available in previous Windows versions. Users face delays due to mandatory updates, which can take 20 to 50 minutes, and are subjected to numerous promotional pages during the setup. Microsoft has introduced a “Skip for now” option for updates but has not addressed the forced Microsoft account sign-in requirement. There is no mention of removing this requirement in recent updates, despite ongoing demand from users. Microsoft has relaxed some account requirements in other areas, such as allowing sign-ins with Google or Apple accounts for Bing, but the OOBE still mandates a Microsoft account.

Winsage

August 3, 2026

Microsoft warns Windows PC users of Russian hackers on hotel WiFi

Microsoft has issued a warning to Windows PC users about Russian hackers targeting individuals using hotel WiFi networks. The campaign, named CaptiveCrunch and attributed to the Storm-2945 group, focuses on corporate travelers and employs tactics like credential theft and malware distribution through compromised guest networks. Microsoft has been monitoring this activity since May, noting its impact on hospitality networks utilizing captive portals. Hackers have been redirecting users to counterfeit sign-in pages to steal credentials without phishing emails. The threat may also extend to Android devices, with hackers using deceptive techniques to manipulate users into downloading malicious APK files. The hackers employ fake verification checks and sign-in prompts, sometimes misleading users into Microsoft's legitimate authentication process to gain access to accounts. Microsoft has identified a specific remote-access trojan named CornFlake, which can record keystrokes, steal credentials, and capture screenshots. Recommendations for travelers include using mobile hotspots, avoiding updates through captive portals, strengthening authentication methods, and blocking unnecessary device-code authentication.

Winsage

July 30, 2026

Windows 11 KB5101684 update released with 42 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the KB5101684 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, which includes 42 bug fixes and various enhancements. This update is part of the optional non-security preview update schedule and does not include security updates. Users can install it via Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates, with an option to choose installation. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 to build 26100.8973 and Windows 11 25H2 to build 26200.8973. It addresses issues such as false invalid credential errors in File History backups, noncompliance in newly enrolled devices, and incorrect file markings on DFS mapped drives. New features include enhanced navigation in File Explorer, more accurate file size indicators, improved search results for app names, and new precision touchpad controls. Voice Isolation support for Voice Access is introduced, along with expanded Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security for external fingerprint readers. Immediate features include enhancements to Secure Boot, app stability improvements, and fixes for MDM compliance issues. Additional features rolling out post-update involve better file size displays in File Explorer, enhanced app search, Voice Isolation for voice access, taskbar notification badge updates, new touchpad gesture controls, and reliability improvements for the Start menu and Windows sign-in screens. Microsoft reports no known issues with this update.

Winsage

July 16, 2026

Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro reach end of support in 90 days

Microsoft announced that Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will stop receiving updates on October 13, 2026. The Enterprise and Education editions will continue to receive mainstream support until October 12, 2027. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2, which became available in September 2024. For unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro users, the transition to 25H2 will occur automatically, although they can postpone the update. Microsoft has also extended the free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates program for consumers until October 12, 2027.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Big Changes Are Coming To Android’s Google Play Store This Month

In October 2024, a judge ordered Google to allow third-party app stores on the Android platform. Google has now decided to comply with this ruling, retracting its motion to amend the injunction. Changes are set to be implemented starting July 22, 2026, allowing third-party app stores to operate within the Play Store in the U.S. Developers' app listings will automatically be available to these stores unless they opt out. Third-party stores can offer apps from the Play Catalog if they pay an annual fee and meet certain criteria. However, questions remain regarding the integration of Play Protect security features and the assessment of third-party store security.

Winsage

July 14, 2026

Microsoft blocks browser choice for 1.4 billion Windows users, study finds

Microsoft's design strategies continue to influence users towards its Edge browser, as revealed in a study by Dr. Harry Brignull and Cennydd Bowles, published by Mozilla. The researchers tested Windows 10 and 11 across the US, UK, India, and Germany, focusing on whether users could download, set, and maintain a default browser other than Edge without interference. Findings showed that users encountered harmful design patterns that hindered their ability to choose alternative browsers. For example, searching for "download Chrome" on Bing led to Edge promotions, and downloading Chrome triggered an Edge banner. In Windows 11, the setup prompts users to allow Edge to import data from other browsers, with the accept option more visible than the decline option. Additionally, Microsoft's Copilot and Windows Backup tool opened links in Edge regardless of the user's default browser choice, resetting the default browser to Edge during migration without consent. The study noted regional differences, with fewer harmful patterns in Germany due to the EU's Digital Markets Act, although some issues persisted. The researchers recommend eliminating these harmful design patterns and advocate for global regulatory enforcement.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Windows questions? How Copilot can analyze your PC settings now

Microsoft has introduced a new feature called PC Insights within its Copilot AI, aimed at simplifying troubleshooting within the Windows operating system. This feature allows users to ask questions about their system, such as battery health, BIOS version, CPU usage, network adapters, storage availability, and printer status. Users must download and install the Copilot Windows app to utilize PC Insights. Upon asking a question, Copilot requests permission to access system resources, which can be granted for a single request or for future similar requests. The AI retrieves the necessary data without storing or using personal files for training, and permissions can be revoked through the app's privacy settings. While PC Insights can provide information and clarify technical details, it cannot autonomously fix issues or implement system changes, requiring users to resolve identified problems themselves.

BetaBeacon

July 11, 2026

Roblox: How to Download for Free on PC, Consoles, Android, and iOS

Roblox can be downloaded for free on computers, Xbox consoles, Android phones, and iOS phones.

Winsage

July 5, 2026

Microsoft released Windows 11 KB5095189 OOBE (initial OS setup) update for 25H2, 24H2

Microsoft released a preview update designated as C-release under KB5095093, along with dynamic updates KB5102558 and KB5095615, focusing on setup and recovery enhancements for Windows 11. A new Out of Box Experience (OOBE) update has been introduced for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2. The OOBE is the initial setup phase after Windows installation. The cumulative update KB5095189, dated June 23, 2026, enhances the OOBE process for these versions. OOBE updates are installed automatically for users with an active internet connection. During OOBE, Windows automatically downloads and installs critical driver updates and zero-day patches once connected to a network. If a newer version of Windows is available, it may also be downloaded and installed during the OOBE process, ensuring the device has the latest security measures and features upon completion of the setup.