guide Archives

Winsage

August 25, 2026

Windows 11 KB5121003: Game crashes caused by inpoutx64

Microsoft has acknowledged issues with the August security update KB5121003 for Windows 11, affecting versions 24H2 and 25H2. Users reported problems such as game freezing, unexpected closures, and system restarts after installing the update. The issues are linked to drivers and software for specific RGB-enabled peripherals or components, particularly involving the inpoutx64.sys driver. Games mentioned include ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and THE FINALS. Embark Studios has released a support guide suggesting users stop and remove the inpoutx64.sys service as a temporary workaround. Microsoft is investigating the issue but has not provided a definitive fix or patch timeline.

Tech Optimizer

August 25, 2026

Migrate Vaultwarden to PostgreSQL: Scale for Teams [2026]

Self-hosting Vaultwarden with SQLite can lead to performance issues as the user base grows, particularly due to SQLite's limitations with concurrent writes. Transitioning to PostgreSQL allows for better performance, multi-user support, and enhanced data durability. PostgreSQL supports concurrent connections and row-level locking, making it more suitable for team environments. To migrate from SQLite to PostgreSQL, certain prerequisites must be met, including having an existing Vaultwarden deployment, Docker Engine, a PostgreSQL server, and pgloader installed. The migration process involves backing up existing data, deploying a PostgreSQL container, updating configuration files, and using pgloader to transfer data. A VPS with 2 vCPU and 4GB RAM can support up to 50 users, with larger teams requiring more resources. PostgreSQL also allows for the creation of organizations for shared vault access and the configuration of group policies for security. Regular backups and performance tuning are necessary to maintain optimal operation. Common pitfalls during migration include not stopping the Vaultwarden container before migration, failing to encode special characters in the database password, and neglecting to back up data. Troubleshooting may involve checking connection strings and ensuring the PostgreSQL container is healthy. Advanced configurations can enhance performance and functionality, and understanding the differences between Vaultwarden and Bitwarden's official self-hosted server can aid in decision-making.

AppWizard

August 25, 2026

A game dev spent 40 days in the wilderness to make this new Steam survival game

Wordless Forest is a newly launched FMV survival game available on Steam, created by solo developer Dogus Cagrici. The game features stunning visuals from a 40-day hiking expedition across four Turkish cities and has no dialogue. Players navigate the protagonist's journey after a head injury, making critical choices that affect the story's outcome. The gameplay includes dilemmas like whether to consume food found at an abandoned campsite or investigate a dark cave. Early reviews are mixed, noting that the game offers about 45 minutes of gameplay with limited choices, leading some to view it as a short interactive film. It is currently available at a 10% discount for two weeks on Steam.

Winsage

August 24, 2026

You don’t want this Sleepwalker backdoor on your Windows machine

Malware researcher Dominik Reichel has discovered a sophisticated Windows backdoor named Sleepwalker, which remains dormant in memory until activated by a specially crafted network packet. Sleepwalker uses a 23-instruction command language to execute tasks, including running code in memory and exfiltrating data. It activates through a proprietary activation packet that does not contain readable commands. The malware targets a VMware VMCI and disguises itself as Microsoft's dpapi.dll, mimicking its functions while redirecting calls to a non-existent file. Once it confirms its host process as ERAAgent.exe, it enters a dormant state to evade detection. Sleepwalker monitors for a specific pattern known as a magic packet to decrypt and interpret commands. Commands sent to it are encrypted with AES-256-CCM and must be read in a specific order. The backdoor includes functionalities for sending and concealing data, receiving tasks, and executing programs. Reichel has developed a toolkit to decode Sleepwalker’s bytecode and a mitigation guide for affected users. However, there are significant gaps in knowledge regarding the initial access method, victim identification, and the malware's operator.

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Back to the Start: How Microsoft launched Windows 95 to the world

In 1995, Microsoft launched Windows 95, an operating system designed to transition users from 16-bit to 32-bit computing, with a marketing budget estimated between 0 million and 0 million. Windows 95 featured a 32-bit architecture capable of managing up to 4GB of memory, the Start button, taskbar, Microsoft Exchange, and Plug and Play technology. The global launch event occurred on August 24 at Microsoft's headquarters, featuring Bill Gates and a promotional campaign that included The Rolling Stones' "Start Me Up" and a videotape guide with Friends stars. In Malaysia, the official launch was on August 29, with some dealers organizing midnight sales, although turnout was disappointing. Microsoft hosted a Windows 95 Expo in Kuala Lumpur, leading to strong sales of additional products. By 1996, Microsoft announced the shipment of 40 million units of Windows 95 worldwide.

BetaBeacon

August 24, 2026

PPSSPP vs Dolphin vs RetroArch Android: 127 Cores

PPSSPP is a dedicated PSP emulator that does not require a BIOS file to boot a game. Dolphin emulates GameCube and Wii consoles and requires newer Android versions for better performance. RetroArch is a frontend that loads separate cores for different systems, offering a wide range of emulation options.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

Nintendo pre-order updates – August 23, 2026 – Minecraft for Switch 2, more

Nintendo has an impressive lineup of products available for pre-order during the week of August 23, 2026. Key upcoming game releases include: - Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 on August 27 - Brigandine Abyss on August 27 - Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition and Wanderstop on August 28 - Orbitals on September 3 - Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition on September 3 - Onimusha: Way of the Sword Steelbook Edition on September 4 - NBA 2K27 on September 4 - Hot Wheels: Infinite Rush on September 10 - Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave collection on September 17 - Xenoblade Chronicles 2 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on October 1 - Final Fantasy Resonance on October 22 - Hello Kitty Party Land on October 30 New amiibo figures include Kirby Air Riders – Chef Kawasaki on September 3 and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Mineru’s Construct on September 17. Upcoming books include the Pokemon Deluxe Character Guide Limited Edition Box Set Collection on August 25 and The Art of Final Fantasy Tactics on November 10.

Tech Optimizer

August 23, 2026

Aura vs LifeLock vs Identity Guard 2026: $5M Coverage

Identity theft complaints are increasing, leading to a competitive market for protection services. Aura offers a comprehensive security suite with up to million in identity theft insurance, while LifeLock provides tiered coverage from million to million under the Norton brand. Identity Guard is a budget-friendly option with coverage capped at million and lacks features like antivirus and VPN. Aura includes three-bureau credit monitoring on all plans, while LifeLock's comprehensive monitoring is only available on its highest tier, and Identity Guard's entry-level plan does not include credit monitoring. All three services provide dark web monitoring and SSN alerts, but Aura features AI-driven scam detection. Aura's Family plan covers up to five adults and unlimited children, whereas LifeLock's family options are more restrictive. Identity Guard's pricing is predictable, with a 20% increase after the first year, while Aura does not advertise significant post-year-one hikes. LifeLock operates under Gen Digital, which also owns Norton, while Aura is privately held and Identity Guard operates independently.

Winsage

August 23, 2026

I think Microsoft is finally fixing the customization problems that held Windows 11 back

Windows 11 is evolving into a more user-centric operating system, with recent updates enhancing customization options like moving and resizing the Taskbar and improving Start menu control. This change is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative, which aims to boost performance and user experience. Initially, Windows 11's design aimed for simplicity but reduced user choices, leading to frustration. The context menu was simplified but became cluttered again, prompting updates that allow users to customize its organization. Microsoft recognizes that users have varied preferences for interacting with the OS, and the flexibility in Taskbar positioning enhances satisfaction. While the updates are positive, there is criticism that Microsoft should not be overly praised for restoring previously removed features. The goal is to maintain a modern interface while enhancing user experience without sacrificing functionality. Recent changes reflect an understanding that the issues with Windows 11 arose from removing options rather than having too many choices, guiding future updates to balance user-friendliness with customization.

AppWizard

August 21, 2026

Beyond These Stars Arrives Oct 15 on PC Game Pass With Full 1.0 Launch

Hooded Horse and Balancing Monkey Games will release Beyond These Stars on October 15, 2026. The game is a city-building and colony management title set on the back of a sentient Space Whale named Kewa. It will be available on Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, and the Microsoft Store, with day-one access for PC Game Pass subscribers. Beyond These Stars serves as a sequel to Before We Leave and features players guiding a civilization called the Peeps while managing resources and Kewa's well-being. The game emphasizes ecological mutualism, where Kewa's happiness affects gameplay. Players will navigate a complex production system and can explore a procedurally generated Galaxy Map with various star systems. The game has received positive feedback from critics and will launch as a complete 1.0 title, bypassing Early Access. The minimum system requirements include a Windows 10 (64-bit) PC with an Intel Core i3-6300 or AMD FX-9370, 8 GB RAM, and an NVIDIA GTX 750 or AMD Radeon R9 380. A free demo is currently available on Steam.