hardware analysis

Winsage
February 26, 2026
Windows Update KB5077241, released in February 2026, is a 4.5GB feature update for the 24H2 and 25H2 versions. It poses significant performance risks for older hardware, particularly laptops and desktops without a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Users with outdated Nvidia graphics cards, specifically the 900 Series (Maxwell) and 1000 Series (Pascal), report issues such as game stuttering, screen flickering, and system boot failures. The update also contains a flaw that inaccurately displays CPU usage in Task Manager, showing 0% utilization even under load. Many users face installation issues, encountering Error 0x800F0983, requiring them to delete update cache files and run repair tools. The update introduces features like a Taskbar Speed Test, Sysmon Security, improved Sleep/Wake functionality, and WebP wallpaper support, but many remain locked. Users can enable these features using ViVeTool with specific commands. Overall, the update is advised against for those with older Nvidia GPUs due to potential conflicts and performance issues.
Tech Optimizer
October 16, 2025
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ceasing free security updates and technical support. Microsoft Defender will continue to provide signature updates post-support, but experts warn that relying solely on it may not be sufficient for security. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allows users to purchase continued protection for up to three years. Many enterprises still depend on Windows 10, and abrupt migrations could disrupt operations. The costs of the ESU program vary, with small businesses potentially finding it prohibitive. Security professionals highlight the increased risk of unpatched systems, emphasizing the need for proactive measures. Microsoft is shifting towards cloud-centric security models, indicating a trend towards layered defenses that combine antivirus solutions with regular patching and user education.
Winsage
June 16, 2024
Benchmarking software can help assess system performance by understanding individual components within a PC. Free benchmarking tools like CPU-Z, HWMonitor, SiSoftware Sandra Lite, Speccy, and CineBench provide detailed insights into hardware specifications, real-time monitoring, comprehensive benchmarking tasks, hardware configuration overview, and CPU performance evaluation, respectively.
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