forced updates Archives

Winsage

January 14, 2026

Microsoft Adds Copilot AI to Windows 11 File Explorer Amid Privacy Debates

Microsoft is enhancing its artificial intelligence capabilities in Windows 11 by potentially integrating its Copilot AI into File Explorer, as indicated by recent code discoveries in insider preview builds. This integration may introduce a new Copilot button or sidebar, allowing users to engage with AI for contextual queries about files, such as summarizing documents or organizing folders. Concerns have been raised regarding privacy and system performance, as the AI could access local files. The integration may also include chat capabilities, prompting fears of data exposure. Microsoft has assured users that Copilot prioritizes local processing and operates with consent. However, critics worry about the potential for intrusive AI suggestions and the possibility of forced updates. The integration is expected to leverage Microsoft's agentic AI framework and may require advanced hardware for optimal performance. Financial incentives, such as Copilot Pro subscriptions, are also a factor in this strategic push. User feedback will be crucial in determining the success of this integration, with mixed reactions from the tech community regarding privacy and control.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

2026 Shift: Professionals Ditch Windows 11 for Linux’s Speed and Savings

Professionals are increasingly moving away from Windows 11 to various Linux distributions due to dissatisfaction with performance issues and intrusive features in Windows. A 2025 analysis showed Linux distributions outperforming Windows by an average of 19.5% in everyday tasks. Performance tests indicated that SteamOS, a Linux-based platform, often matched or exceeded Windows 11 in gaming performance. Linux's lightweight nature and superior system administration tools appeal to those managing servers and virtual environments. Security concerns regarding Windows 11, including privacy issues and forced updates, have led users to prefer Linux's open-source model, which allows for greater transparency and customization. Economic factors also play a role, as Linux is free and open-source, eliminating licensing fees associated with Windows 11. User-friendly distributions like Linux Mint facilitate the transition for new users, and community support helps address common challenges. Large organizations are increasingly adopting Linux for its stability and responsiveness, while the Linux community fosters rapid improvements and adaptability. User feedback highlights privacy, performance, and customizability as key benefits of switching to Linux.

Winsage

November 11, 2025

The creator of Task Manager explains why people hate Windows 11, and how Microsoft can fix it

Dave Plummer critiques Windows 11, stating it has become more of an advertisement platform than a productivity tool. He suggests implementing a "Windows Expert" mode to disable unsolicited app recommendations, unify Settings and Control Panel, and set Windows Terminal as the default console with Winget for package management. Plummer emphasizes the need for improved privacy features, transparency in telemetry data, and stopping forced updates without user consent. He believes the operating system's current state undermines user trust, as it often promotes Microsoft's products rather than serving users effectively.

Winsage

July 30, 2025

Windows 10’s forced updates: A history of disastrous consequences

The transition to Windows 10 marked the end of Windows 7 and was initially celebrated by Microsoft, but users soon faced numerous problems due to mandatory updates. Issues included boot loops, the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), and data loss, leading Microsoft to delay a major feature upgrade by over six months. In August 2015, a major update caused widespread reboot loops due to corrupted user profiles, requiring complex fixes. The October 2018 update infamously deleted user files and introduced various bugs, taking nearly six months for Microsoft to resolve. In March 2020, another update caused boot hangs and BSODs, prompting many users to uninstall it. In May 2023, a security update bricked PCs and caused connectivity issues. The October 2020 updates led to installation errors, system slowdowns, and compatibility problems. In October 2021, Windows 10 users were encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11, facing hardware compatibility issues. The forced updates have resulted in significant user dissatisfaction, though the option to pause updates has provided some relief.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

I don’t trust Windows Update anymore, and you shouldn’t either

Windows Update is essential for Windows 11, providing security patches, enhancements, and new features. Updates are released monthly on Patch Tuesday and are mandatory, with users facing automatic downloads and prompts for restarts. Recent updates have caused significant issues like boot failures, indicating a trend where updates introduce new problems. Users have limited control over updates, with only brief postponements allowed. Despite these challenges, updates are crucial for security and user experience. Users can pause updates to avoid immediate issues, and there is hope for improved testing protocols from Microsoft.

Winsage

June 4, 2025

KDE appeals to Windows 10 ‘exiles’

KDE has launched a campaign called "KDE for Windows 10 Exiles" in response to the end of support for Windows 10, which will occur on October 14. The campaign warns users that while Windows 10 will still function after this date, the lack of updates will lead to performance and security declines, increasing risks of hacking. Users face a choice between switching to the Long Term Servicing Channel, paying for extended security updates, or upgrading to Windows 11, which many are reluctant to do due to various reasons, including corporate policies and hardware incompatibility. KDE advocates for transitioning to Linux, specifically its Plasma Desktop environment, emphasizing its user-friendliness and visual appeal. While installing Linux has become easier, KDE advises users to seek help from Linux enthusiasts for a smooth transition. Once installed, KDE claims users will experience fewer data collection issues and no viruses, although users must remain vigilant against Linux malware. It is important to note that while support for many versions of Windows 10 ends on October 14, Microsoft 365 applications on Windows 10 will continue to receive security updates until 2028.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

5 reasons you shouldn’t use Windows as a NAS OS

The author transformed a mini PC into a basic Network Attached Storage (NAS) solution using a standard Windows installation. While Windows can work for simple setups, it is generally inefficient for NAS due to its resource usage, lack of native ZFS support, forced updates, complicated Docker and VM management, and clunky remote access. Windows runs unnecessary background services that consume RAM and storage, while dedicated NAS software optimizes performance. Windows does not support ZFS natively, which is beneficial for data integrity and features like compression and encryption. Windows updates can disrupt services due to their unpredictable nature, unlike dedicated NAS systems that allow for scheduled updates. Managing Docker containers or virtual machines is more complex on Windows compared to Linux, which is better suited for these tasks. Remote access on Windows requires cumbersome setups, while Linux offers easier SSH access and web interfaces for management.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Install Manjaro 24.2 today and leave Microsoft Windows 11 to the boomers

Manjaro Linux 24.2 Yonada offers enhanced features across its GNOME, Plasma, and XFCE editions. The GNOME edition includes GNOME 47, allowing users to choose from multiple accent colors, improved scaling for clarity on various displays, and hardware encoding support for screen recording on Intel and AMD GPUs. The Plasma edition utilizes Plasma 6.2, featuring improved Wayland support, better energy management, and enhanced customization options, including support for drawing tablets. The XFCE edition, now with Xfce 4.18, introduces file highlighting and recursive search in the Thunar file manager and consolidates system management in the Control Centre. Manjaro 24.2 is powered by Linux Kernel 6.12, with options for older devices using Kernel 6.6 LTS and 6.1 LTS.

Winsage

November 5, 2024

Windows 2025 being pushed via Windows updates?

Microsoft is automatically upgrading Windows Server 2022 systems to Windows Server 2025 without prior notification, causing concerns among IT administrators. Users have reported that their managed server environments received the upgrade via WSUS, leading to operational challenges, especially in clustered environments. Some users prefer clean installations over in-place upgrades due to past difficulties. A specific update, KB5044284, may have triggered these unexpected upgrades by being misidentified as an operating system update. Discussions on Reddit indicate that the upgrade process appears inconsistent across different Windows versions, with some systems labeling it as a "feature" update.

Winsage

October 5, 2024

5 best Linux distros to replace Windows 11 and take control of your PC

Linux is a robust and user-friendly alternative to Windows 11, with several distributions catering to different user needs: - Ubuntu: Recognized as a gateway to Linux for newcomers, it features a user-friendly interface, extensive community support, and a straightforward installation process. It includes essential software and has lightweight versions like Xubuntu and Lubuntu for older hardware. - Linux Mint: Offers a Windows-like interface with a familiar desktop layout and pre-installed multimedia codecs, making it easy for users to enjoy media without additional software. It is based on Ubuntu for stability. - Pop!_OS: Developed by System76, it is tailored for gamers with built-in support for NVIDIA and AMD GPUs, and features tiling window management for enhanced productivity. It allows users more control over their systems without forced updates. - Fedora: Known for its cutting-edge features and rapid release cycle, it emphasizes security and is popular among developers, featuring the GNOME desktop environment. - Manjaro: Built on Arch Linux, it offers a rolling release model for continuous updates while being beginner-friendly. Users can customize their experience with various desktop environments like KDE Plasma or XFCE.