effectiveness Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 2, 2025

International authorities dismantle AVCheck in cybercrime operation

International authorities have dismantled AVCheck, a platform used by cybercriminals to test malware against antivirus software. The website avcheck.net now displays a seizure notice from the US Department of Justice, FBI, US Secret Service, and Dutch police. AVCheck was one of the largest counter antivirus services globally, aiding cybercriminals in evaluating their malware's stealth capabilities. Investigators found links between AVCheck's administrators and crypting services like Cryptor.biz and Crypt.guru. Law enforcement had placed a fake login page on AVCheck to warn users about legal risks before its shutdown on May 27, 2025. Undercover agents confirmed the illegal nature of AVCheck through transactions and connections to ransomware attacks. The FBI has also warned about the Silent Ransom Group, which has targeted law firms in the US using social engineering tactics.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft promises to sort out USB shambles

Microsoft is updating its Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) for Windows 11 to standardize USB-C port functionality across devices. The new guidelines will ensure that all USB-C ports on certified Windows 11 devices support data transfer, charging, and display output. This initiative aims to eliminate confusion for users regarding port capabilities. Additionally, USB 40Gbps ports will be compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals, while USB 3.X ports may not match the performance of USB4. Microsoft will also require USB-IF certified silicon in PCs and will validate USB controllers with its own drivers to ensure seamless updates through Windows Update.

Tech Optimizer

May 31, 2025

Study offers a national report on antivirus software trends

Nearly half of Mac users have encountered viruses despite having protective software installed, challenging the belief that Apple products are immune to malware. The report highlights that 71% of Android users have antivirus software, but only 49% seek third-party tools. More than half of Americans do not use additional security measures beyond antivirus. Among iOS users, 38% are unaware of third-party antivirus options. While 84% have antivirus on computers, only 68% have it on smartphones and 60% on tablets. Despite widespread adoption, only 16% of antivirus users feel their software is ineffective. The virus encounter rates are 44% for Mac users, 36% for Windows users, and 30% for other platforms.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Microsoft is done being subtle – this new tool screams “upgrade now”

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as the end of support deadline approaches. To facilitate this upgrade, Microsoft has introduced Windows Backup for Organizations, a tool designed to streamline backups and assist businesses in migrating to Windows 11. This tool, announced at Microsoft Ignite in November 2024 and currently in limited public preview, helps organizations back up and restore Windows settings during device resets or reimaging. It aims to reduce troubleshooting, ensure smoother transitions, and enhance productivity by minimizing downtime. To use this tool, systems must be Microsoft Entra joined, and organizations need an active Microsoft Intune test tenant with Intune service administrator permissions. As of April 2025, Windows 10 holds a 52.9% market share, while Windows 11 has 43.7%. Microsoft must upgrade a significant portion of its user base by the deadline or encourage enrollment in the Extended Security Updates program.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Still on Windows 11 23H2 because you’re worried 24H2 is a disaster for PC gaming? Microsoft’s latest update could persuade you to finally upgrade

The latest optional patch for Windows 11, identified as KB5058499, addresses critical issues affecting PC games, particularly those using Nvidia GPUs. It resolves problems such as games freezing upon launch and specific titles becoming unresponsive after upgrading to version 24H2. The patch also targets a memory leak within the ‘Input Service,’ which may contribute to input lag and blue screen crashes linked to ‘memory management’ errors. The root cause of the game lock-up problem was found to be within the Windows 11 kernel, not Nvidia's graphics drivers. Users can install the patch to potentially restore functionality to their games or wait for the full cumulative update scheduled for June 10.

Tech Optimizer

May 30, 2025

I put Bitdefender and Norton up against each other to see which was best, and the results were almost too close to call

Bitdefender has a detection rate of over 98% for malware, while Norton has a 97% offline detection rate and exceeds 99% online. Bitdefender's firewall is configurable but limited to its Total Security package, whereas Norton offers a powerful and customizable firewall. Bitdefender provides a separate Digital Identity Protection service for .33 per month, while Norton includes identity theft protection through its LifeLock service in higher tiers, offering features like credit monitoring and potential compensation up to million. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily data cap, while Norton offers an unlimited VPN in most subscription tiers. Both have password managers, but Bitdefender lacks two-factor authentication. Bitdefender offers straightforward parental controls, while Norton includes mobile GPS tracking. Bitdefender is recognized for its lightweight design, while Norton is noted for its speed. Bitdefender has a user-friendly interface, while Norton’s may be more complex for beginners. In independent tests, Bitdefender slightly outperforms Norton in offline detection. Norton's basic plan starts at .99 per year, while Bitdefender's Antivirus Plus starts at .99 per year.

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

Elden Ring Nightreign review

A co-op action RPG battle royale hybrid set in the Elden Ring universe, titled Elden Ring Nightreign, is developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco, with a release date of May 30, 2025, priced at £35. The game features multiplayer gameplay, with matches lasting around 30 minutes, and involves teams of three players battling against various monsters. Players engage in cooperative missions and face unpredictable challenges, including boss encounters and randomized loot. Each character can equip three Relics, though their effectiveness can vary. The game emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and adaptation, with a steep learning curve and elements that can lead to frustration. Despite its chaotic nature, it offers a thrilling experience that encourages players to experiment and persevere through challenges. The game was reviewed on an RTX 5090, Intel Core i9 12900K, and 32GB RAM, and has not been tested on Steam Deck.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Three ways to run Windows apps on a Linux box

If you're transitioning to Linux and need to run Windows applications, you have several options, including dual-booting, using a virtual machine (VM), or employing a compatibility layer like WINE. For virtualization, VirtualBox is a popular open-source choice, while VMware is another option that has been free since late 2024. Both require a Windows ISO, which can be obtained for free from Microsoft. VirtualBox suggests allocating 2GB of RAM and one processor core, but 8GB of RAM and two cores are recommended for better performance. Running a VM requires significant resources, and a valid Windows license is necessary for the guest OS. Dual-booting allows both Windows and Linux to run natively, providing full hardware access and optimal performance. WINE translates Windows application calls into Linux commands and is included in most Linux distributions. Its effectiveness varies by application. Bottles is a user-friendly wrapper around WINE that simplifies installation. For enhanced compatibility, CodeWeavers CrossOver is a premium alternative to WINE, with a free evaluation version available. For gaming, Lutris and Valve’s Proton are tools that facilitate running Windows games on Linux.

Tech Optimizer

May 27, 2025

Microsoft oversells Windows 11’s Smart App Control as a “top antivirus solution”

Microsoft's Smart App Control (SAC) is integrated into Windows 11 and requires a clean installation to function optimally. It is designed to enhance security by using artificial intelligence to proactively shield users from threats, working alongside existing antivirus software rather than replacing it. SAC aims to anticipate and block suspicious applications before they can cause harm, minimizing system performance impact by avoiding constant file scanning. However, the effectiveness of SAC and its claims of being a groundbreaking innovation have been questioned, as proactive security measures have existed for years, and modern antivirus solutions offer advanced features beyond basic scanning. Users are advised to consider independent testing platforms for reliable antimalware options.

AppWizard

May 26, 2025

SHADE Protocol Announced For PC Release In 2026

Little Legendary is developing a 2D cyber-fantasy Metroidvania game titled SHADE Protocol, set to launch on PC in 2026. Players will control Zura, a Replica with the ability to rewrite reality, in a world affected by Elythium, a sentient metal. The game features two modes, DAWN and SHADE, allowing for adaptable combat styles. Players will use musical weapons called Instruments, which have unique capabilities for combat and exploration. The UNISON System enables players to manipulate events and influence outcomes, while a dynamic combat system allows for precision melee combat and the restoration of Echo through parries and counters. The initial trailer highlights the game's artistic style and mechanics.