firewall Archives

Winsage

July 25, 2025

Microsoft claims Windows 11 24H2 is the ‘most reliable’ Windows version ever

Microsoft announced enhancements to Windows 11 with the optional July update (KB5062660), which includes the new features Windows Recall for EU users and Quick Machine Recovery for repairing boot failures. The company claims Windows 11 24H2 is the most reliable version of Windows yet, citing a 24% reduction in unexpected restart failure rates compared to Windows 10 22H2. However, the reliability of this claim is questioned due to selective telemetry data and reports of disruptions in functionalities such as USB printers, audio output, Bluetooth connections, Windows Update, and Windows Firewall.

Tech Optimizer

July 25, 2025

Best antivirus software for Windows in 2025

Microsoft Defender is the most suitable free antivirus solution for most users, integrated into Windows 10 and 11 by default. It requires no additional effort from users, making it a convenient choice for everyday protection. For paid antivirus options, Bitdefender Total Security is priced from .99 or £49.99 annually for up to five devices, offering extensive features including malware detection, a VPN, and parental controls. Avast One starts at .88 or £32.49 per year for three devices and has a high malware detection rate, along with a built-in firewall and VPN functionality. F-Secure Total begins at .99 or £59.99 per year for one device, providing network protection at the router level and alerting users about compromised services.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Microsoft fixes bug behind incorrect Windows Firewall errors

Microsoft has resolved an issue causing erroneous Windows Firewall notifications after rebooting Windows 11 24H2 systems, particularly with the June 2025 preview update. This fix is included in the KB5062660 preview cumulative update released on Tuesday and will be more widely available with the August Patch Tuesday updates. The issue, acknowledged on July 3rd, was linked to a new feature in development and resulted in misleading Event Viewer messages (event 2042) indicating 'Config Read Failed.' Microsoft clarified that these messages did not reflect actual problems with Windows Firewall. An apology was issued on July 8th after mistakenly declaring the issue resolved. Additionally, Microsoft has addressed other recent issues, including invalid 0x80070643 failure errors during April 2025 WinRE updates and incorrect BitLocker drive encryption errors affecting managed Windows environments.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Windows 11 KB5062660 update brings new ‘Windows Resilience’ features

Microsoft has released the KB5062660 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, introducing twenty-nine new features and changes, including the Black Screen of Death and the Quick Machine Recovery tool. This optional update is part of Microsoft's non-security preview updates, allowing users to test upcoming features before the next Patch Tuesday. Users can install the update via Settings > Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 systems to build 26100.4770. Key features include: - Recall functionality in the EEA for exporting snapshots. - Improvements in Reading Coach and Immersive Reader. - Draft creation in Word with Copilot. - New agent in Settings for easier navigation. - Quick Machine Recovery for automatic issue resolution. - Boolean option in Start menu configuration. - Enhanced Snap and Windows Search settings. - Gamepad layout improvements in the touch keyboard. - Various fixes for File Explorer, desktop icons, and notifications. The KB5058502 update also addresses issues related to authentication and system stability, with no known issues reported for KB5062660.

Tech Optimizer

July 22, 2025

Can A Hacker Take Over Your Computer? What to Know About Remote Access Trojans

Remote access trojans (RATs) are malware that allow hackers to control devices remotely, enabling them to steal passwords, monitor screens, log keystrokes, activate webcams or microphones, install additional malware, and use the computer for further cyber attacks. RATs typically enter systems through phishing, malicious downloads, fake updates, or compromised websites. Signs of a RAT infection include sluggish performance, unusual network activity, mysterious programs, unexpected pop-ups, and unexpected activation of camera or microphone lights. Preventive measures include being cautious with communications, downloading from reputable sources, using antivirus software, keeping software updated, and implementing a firewall. If a RAT is suspected, it is advised to disconnect from the internet, run a full antivirus scan, check installed programs, change passwords, and consider a factory reset. Smartphones can also be vulnerable to RATs, which may manifest as rapid battery drain, overheating, strange pop-ups, excessive data usage, and unfamiliar apps. Immediate actions for compromised phones include enabling airplane mode, deleting suspicious apps, and updating the operating system.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

Managing Windows Firewall Rules with PowerShell, Part 3: Creating a Baseline

The text discusses managing Windows firewall rules using PowerShell, particularly focusing on exporting firewall rules to a CSV file and comparing current configurations against a baseline. A PowerShell script is provided that retrieves all existing firewall rules, compiles their details into custom objects, and exports them to a CSV file. Another script is designed to compare a baseline CSV file of firewall rules with a current CSV file, checking for changes in various fields and identifying deleted rules. The script outputs any modifications found and notes if a rule has been deleted. It also mentions potential enhancements for handling new rules and duplicate rule names.

Winsage

July 19, 2025

Microsoft Issues Rare Apology For A Windows Update Mistake

Microsoft's Windows 11 24H2 update has encountered multiple issues, including a persistent Windows Firewall error (Event 2042) that worsened after the July 2025 update. The company issued an apology for the confusion, clarifying that the error is a logging anomaly with no security risk. Users have also reported problems with the Microsoft Changjie Input Method, Azure Virtual Desktop app failures, camera application unresponsiveness, wallpaper customization issues, blue screen errors related to Easy Anti-Cheat, and audio loss with Dirac Audio. Microsoft is working on resolutions for these problems in future updates.

Winsage

July 18, 2025

Microsoft mistakenly tags Windows Firewall error log bug as fixed

Microsoft mistakenly categorized an ongoing bug related to Windows Firewall error messages as resolved in its latest updates. The bug, which causes users to encounter Windows Firewall errors in the Event Viewer with event ID 2042, appears each time the system is restarted and is logged as "Config Read Failed." Microsoft clarified that these errors do not indicate a malfunction and can be ignored, as they are related to an upcoming feature not yet fully integrated into the operating system. The company apologized for the miscommunication and stated that a resolution is planned to be included in an upcoming update.

Tech Optimizer

July 18, 2025

ESET vs Avast: Which antivirus is better in 2025?

ESET and Avast are leading antivirus software providers, each offering solutions for individual and business users. ESET features real-time threat detection with a multi-layered engine that includes advanced heuristics and machine learning, achieving high marks in independent tests for catching new threats. Its firewall allows granular control over network traffic and includes a Learning Mode for initial configuration. Identity theft protection is available only in its Ultimate tier, focusing on proactive monitoring. ESET includes a VPN in its highest-tier solution and provides a password manager compatible with multiple platforms. Parental controls include content filtering and activity logging. ESET is recognized for minimal impact on system performance, scoring 5.5 out of 6 in performance tests. Avast offers strong malware detection with a vast threat intelligence network, achieving near-perfect detection rates. Its firewall protects against network attacks and is integrated into the Avast One suite. Identity theft protection is included across all plans, with advanced features in higher tiers. Avast bundles its VPN across all offerings and does not provide a traditional password manager but alerts users about compromised credentials. It lacks built-in parental controls but offers supplementary features. Avast scored a perfect 6 in performance tests. Both ESET and Avast scored highly in protection and usability during AV-Test trials, with Avast achieving a 97.7% offline and 99.3% online detection rate, while ESET recorded 96.5% offline and 97.2% online detection rates. ESET's pricing is customizable, starting at .99 for a single device, while Avast offers a free Basic tier and starts its premium plans at .88 for three devices.

Tech Optimizer

July 18, 2025

Avast vs Norton: Which antivirus is is better in 2025?

Avast and Norton are leading antivirus software options that utilize the same antivirus engine for core malware protection. Avast excels in real-time monitoring and offers a Wi-Fi security scanner, while Norton uses AI and machine learning for threat defense. Both provide robust firewalls, but Norton includes an Intrusion Prevention System for enhanced security. In terms of identity theft protection, Avast One offers credit monitoring and compensation, while Norton partners with LifeLock for more comprehensive services. Avast includes a basic VPN in its free version, whereas Norton offers a more extensive VPN with advanced features. Norton provides a password manager, while Avast does not. Norton has superior parental controls compared to Avast, which lacks this feature. Both have additional security features, with Norton offering Data Shredder and Dark Web Monitoring. Avast has a slight edge in system performance, while both have user-friendly designs, though Avast is simpler. Both have identical detection rates in malware protection tests. Pricing differs, with Avast being more economical and Norton offering a wider range of plans at higher prices.