folders Archives

Winsage

August 31, 2026

Windows may finally take no for an answer, adding a permanent opt-out for OneDrive backup nags

Microsoft has introduced a new feature in Windows 11 that allows users to permanently opt out of prompts encouraging them to back up files with OneDrive. The updated full-screen backup prompt now includes an "Opt out of backup" button, which was observed on PCs running stable Windows 11 25H2 builds without the OneDrive sync client installed. This option enables users to indicate their preference against OneDrive integration without uninstalling OneDrive or affecting existing files and synchronization settings. The feature aims to eliminate intrusive backup notifications that previously required users to either continue with OneDrive backup or postpone the prompt. Although the option appeared on at least one system in 2025, it is now being rolled out to a broader range of stable installations. The August 27 update notes from Microsoft do not mention this new opt-out button, suggesting it may be rolling out independently.

Winsage

August 30, 2026

5 Windows Security Settings You Should Never Skip Over

Microsoft has over 1.4 billion active devices each month, making it a target for security vulnerabilities. Users can enhance their security using built-in features without third-party software. Key security measures include: - Windows Hello: Enables secure login via PIN or biometric methods. Activation steps: Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Select method > Set up. - Windows Firewall: Protects against malicious internet traffic. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Toggle on Microsoft Defender Firewall for Public, Domain, and Private networks. - Microsoft Defender: Pre-installed antivirus solution. Ensure it is operational by enabling Real-time protection and Controlled folder access. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings. - Microsoft Account: Linking a Microsoft account provides benefits like cross-device syncing and advanced security features. Steps to link: Settings > Accounts > Your info > Sign in with a Microsoft account. - Device Encryption: Protects sensitive information using BitLocker. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Device encryption > Toggle on. - Find My Device: Allows users to locate their device if lost. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Location > Toggle on Location services > Find my device > Toggle on Find my device.

Winsage

August 29, 2026

Windows 11 just revived one of its most missed features

Microsoft has updated the taskbar, allowing users to customize it through Settings → Personalization → Taskbar → Taskbar behavior → Taskbar position. A new "Small" mode minimizes the taskbar's icons and height, suitable for smaller screens, but it can only be positioned at the top or bottom. The Start menu has been rebranded from "Recommended" to "Recently used," and users can hide their name and profile picture. There are toggles for managing the visibility of pinned apps, recommended content, and all apps. Future updates will include options for small and large layouts and an automatic resize feature. Windows Search has been improved for clarity, with future updates indicating the source of search results. Users can disable web or Store results in search settings, and Windows will automatically index frequently used folders for better search efficiency.

Winsage

August 28, 2026

Microsoft rolls out fix for Windows 11 crashes, gaming issues

Microsoft has begun rolling out a permanent solution to a system stability and gaming performance issue on Windows 11 devices, which has caused crashes, game launch failures, and freezing, often with the "EXCEPTIONACCESSVIOLATION" error message. The problem was linked to updates from August 2026 and was identified as being related to peripherals with RGB lighting features that installed disruptive drivers. Specifically, the inpoutx64.sys driver was found to be responsible for these disruptions. Microsoft is deploying a fix that disables this driver on affected systems, starting from August 26, 2026. This driver block will also be included in the September 2026 Windows security updates. For enterprise-managed devices, a temporary workaround involves manually disabling the inpoutx64 driver via the Windows Registry. Microsoft has assured users that this action should not cause unintended behavior and can be reversed.

Winsage

August 28, 2026

Microsoft rolls out fix for Windows 11 crashes, gaming issues

Microsoft has begun rolling out a permanent solution to a problem causing system crashes and gaming disruptions on Windows 11 devices, specifically related to game launch failures and freezing with "EXCEPTIONACCESSVIOLATION" errors. The issue affects various games, including ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals, particularly on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, and is linked to peripherals with built-in RGB lighting. The inpoutx64.sys driver has been identified as the cause of these complications. Microsoft is deploying a fix that disables this driver on affected devices, starting on August 26, 2026, and it may take up to 24 hours to reach all impacted devices. This driver block will also be included in the September 2026 Windows security updates. For enterprise-managed devices that do not automatically receive the fix, a temporary workaround involves disabling the inpoutx64 driver via the Windows Registry. Microsoft has stated that disabling this registry key should not lead to unintended behavior.

Winsage

August 28, 2026

Microsoft “Resolves” Windows 11 Crashing Games with a Registry Hack

Late last week, reports emerged about gameplay disruptions linked to the Windows 11 August update, causing issues like forced crashes, unexpected freezing, and device restarts. Microsoft identified the interaction between gaming applications and RGB peripherals as the cause. They released a workaround involving a registry modification to prevent the inpoutx64 driver from loading, which resolved the issue temporarily. This workaround specifically targets devices with the inpoutx64 driver enabled and the game ARC Raiders installed. Users can disable the driver by modifying the registry key HKEYLOCALMACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesinpoutx64, changing the Start value to 4, and restarting the computer. Microsoft is also working to block RGB peripherals for the game MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls and has addressed similar issues for THE FINALS. The driver block will be included in the September 2026 Windows security updates and future releases.

Winsage

August 28, 2026

Windows Search still can’t find half my files, because Microsoft fixed the wrong part

Windows 11's native Search feature has been improved with a new indexing system that automatically indexes frequently accessed folders. The latest build, 26100.9267, allows search results to appear after two keystrokes and is more forgiving of typographical errors. Users can choose between web or store suggestions. However, issues persist, such as files remaining invisible in indexed folders. Users have two indexing options: Classic mode, which covers limited locations, and Enhanced mode, which indexes all partitions but may affect battery life and CPU usage. Many users prefer third-party alternatives like Everything, which indexes files directly from the NTFS Master File Table without requiring mode selection. Despite improvements, the overall search experience in Windows remains unsatisfactory.

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2026

AVG Antivirus Review 2026: Is the Free Version Enough?

AVG AntiVirus Free has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, with specific scores of 4.7 for protection, 4.3 for performance and features, and 3.5 for customer support. The software is available for free or can be purchased starting at .88 for the first year, with pricing verified in August 2026. It achieved a 99.77% malware detection rate with only four false alarms and offers features such as real-time protection and Ransomware Protection. However, customer support is rated lower, and there are upselling prompts after scans. AVG is owned by Gen Digital and has been in operation for over 35 years, originally founded as Grisoft in the Czech Republic. The free version includes essential features like File Shield, Behavior Shield, Web Shield, Email Shield, and Ransomware Protection, while some features like Enhanced Firewall and Fake Website Shield are exclusive to paid versions. AVG's performance on Windows 11 has been validated by independent tests, scoring 6/6/6 in AV-TEST and achieving a 96.3% offline detection rate in AV-Comparatives. The software is available across multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. AVG's customer support includes email and phone options, with a reasonable response time. The software is safe to install when downloaded from official sources, and it has been recognized for its effectiveness in malware detection.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

Wildberries released its own messenger

Wildberries has launched its messaging platform, WB Chat, which is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play. Users can log in using their WB ID. The app features a user-friendly interface with organized chat tabs, allows users to create groups or channels, and includes profile customization options. It supports photo and video sharing, message forwarding, replying to messages, setting statuses, and transcribing voice messages. WB Chat is published on Google Play under WB FZE, with a location in the Hamriyah Free Zone, UAE. The app is currently in beta testing. It is also available on RuStore, and a web version is being developed. Wildberries plans to expand the messenger internationally after its initial launch in Russia.

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2026

How to Protect Against Ransomware: 13 Steps [2026]

Global ransomware attacks increased by 0.8% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2026. The group Qilin has 279 confirmed victims, maintaining its position as the leading threat actor for four consecutive quarters. The rival group The Gentlemen saw a 62% increase in victims, reaching 269. Checkpoint Research's report indicates a shift in the ransomware landscape, challenging the narrative of declining attacks. IBM's analysis shows breaches within supply chains and third-party vendors have quadrupled over the past five years. Effective ransomware protection requires administrative access to endpoints, firewalls, and backup systems, along with specific software versions and tools. The 3-2-1-1-0 backup strategy is recommended, emphasizing offline, immutable backups. Organizations should implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all access points and actively patch known vulnerabilities. Network segmentation is crucial to limit ransomware spread, and canary files can provide early warnings of attacks. Regular phishing simulations and a well-documented incident response plan are essential for preparedness.