IT departments

Tech Optimizer
June 27, 2025
Microsoft is engaging with third-party companies to establish new standards for collaboration and address concerns. The company is implementing security enhancements for Windows, including a redesign of the "blue screen of death," now called the "unexpected restart screen," which will change from blue to black. This redesign aims to improve readability and align with Windows 11 aesthetics. A new feature, "quick machine recovery" (QMR), will help users recover from multiple unexpected restarts or boot loops by transitioning to Windows Recovery Environment (RE). QMR will be enabled by default on Windows 11 Home, with configuration options for Pro and Enterprise versions. Both QMR and the redesigned screen will be included in the Windows 11 24H2 update, set to launch later this summer, with additional customization options planned for later in the year.
Winsage
June 27, 2025
Microsoft is updating the "Blue Screen of Death" to a black background with a more concise message and a progress percentage indicator, set to roll out later this summer for Windows 11 (version 24H2). This change is part of an initiative to enhance the resiliency of the operating system following a significant incident last year. Additionally, a "quick machine recovery" feature will be introduced to improve the recovery process for PCs during outages, allowing for automated fixes without complex manual interventions. This feature will also be available later this summer, with further enhancements planned for the year.
Winsage
June 22, 2025
Microsoft may soon mandate upgrades from Windows 10, potentially ending the current free upgrade offer. Recent updates to Windows 10 include warnings about automatic feature updates for devices nearing the end of support. Microsoft auto-installed the KB5001716 patch last year, affecting around 400 million Windows 10 users. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, with an option to extend it for a fee. Analysts estimate at least 240 million PCs are ineligible for the free upgrade and will need to pay for security updates or risk vulnerabilities. Microsoft and PC manufacturers are encouraging users to invest in new PCs as the deadline approaches.
Winsage
June 20, 2025
Microsoft is removing outdated drivers from Windows Update to enhance system reliability and reduce security vulnerabilities. This initiative may disrupt users who rely on legacy hardware, as many older devices lack updated driver support from manufacturers. IT administrators face challenges in finding alternative drivers or workarounds for critical systems, as not all hardware vendors provide timely updates. The move reflects a broader trend of prioritizing security and efficiency over backward compatibility, raising concerns about the implications for users with integrated legacy systems. Critics suggest that Microsoft should offer clearer guidance and transitional support for affected users.
Winsage
June 20, 2025
The service allows administrators to pre-stage a cloud PC with company policies, applications, and security controls for quick delivery to users experiencing device failures. It enables users to access a familiar desktop rapidly, even in challenging situations like a malfunctioning laptop at a client site. Intune manages these virtual devices, simplifying the process for IT teams. The Reserve service offers organizations a low-risk way to explore virtual desktops, aiming to provide faster recovery options for lost, stolen, or damaged devices. However, practical implementation concerns remain, including user support access, the decision between physical replacements or temporary solutions, and the selection of applications and policies for the Reserve image. IT departments need a comprehensive operational playbook to effectively utilize this service.
Winsage
June 17, 2025
Microsoft has released an out-of-band update to fix an issue with Surface Hub v1 devices that arose from the June Patch Tuesday updates, specifically related to KB5060533 for Windows 10 versions 21H2 and 22H2. This issue caused some Surface Hub v1 units to become inoperable, displaying a "Secure Boot Violation: Invalid signature detected" error message. Microsoft paused the update on June 11 and issued a patch a week later. The problem does not affect Surface Hub 2S and 3 models. Users have reported inconsistent success using a disk re-imaging tool, and the Surface team is investigating potential recovery methods. Microsoft is working on a solution for the affected devices and will provide updates as they become available.
Winsage
May 7, 2025
Microsoft has announced that Windows 11 version 24H2 has officially entered the final phase of its gradual rollout, making it available to all users. This automatic installation applies to individual users of Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2, excluding managed organizations or enterprises. Devices blocked due to known bugs are exempt from the update. Users can choose when to restart their devices or postpone the update, and they can also pause updates for one to five weeks. Users can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings and selecting Windows Update. Since its release, Windows 11 24H2 has faced various bugs and compatibility issues, leading to some updates being blocked and creating a cycle of fixes and new problems. As Windows 10 approaches its end of support in October, the need for stability in Windows 11 is becoming increasingly important.
Winsage
May 6, 2025
AI has evolved into a transformative force for organizations, increasing the demand for secure and high-performance AI-ready Windows 11 PCs. Microsoft has introduced Copilot+ PCs, including the new 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop, both powered by the Snapdragon X Plus processor with an integrated neural processing unit (NPU) capable of 45 trillion operations per second. The 13-inch Surface Laptop offers up to 23 hours of video playback and 16 hours of web browsing, with performance enhancements of up to 50% faster speeds and double the battery life compared to its predecessor. It features an AI-enhanced 1080p front camera for video conferencing and a durable design. The 12-inch Surface Pro is the thinnest and lightest Copilot+ PC, providing 50% faster performance and up to 16 hours of local video playback. Both devices are designed as Secured-core PCs with advanced security features, including Windows Hello for Business and biometric authentication options. They support enhanced productivity through AI features in Windows 11 and Microsoft 365 Copilot, enabling faster file searches and improved team efficiency. Microsoft emphasizes sustainability with the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient designs. The new devices will be available starting July 22 in select markets.
Winsage
May 6, 2025
Microsoft has announced the rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update, also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update, which is now available for all compatible PCs, except those with safeguard holds. The gradual rollout via Windows Update is nearing completion, and eligible users will see an option to download the update in their settings. Automatic updates will apply to Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2) not managed by IT departments. Upgrade blocks are in place for systems with incompatible hardware or software, including certain applications and drivers. Users can check compatibility using the PC Health Check app or Windows 11 specifications. The update introduces new features such as AI-powered capabilities, an energy saver, Wi-Fi 7 compatibility, Bluetooth LE audio support, HDR background support, natural language understanding in search, and a revamped Windows Recall feature. The rollout began in May 2024 for enterprise testing and transitioned to general availability in October. It will also be available to eligible PCs running Windows 10 22H2 in late January 2025, with a force-installation for unmanaged systems on Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2. Microsoft provides a guided walkthrough and support document for users during the upgrade process.
Winsage
May 5, 2025
Microsoft has begun the final rollout phase for the Windows 11 24H2 update, which is now being automatically deployed to consumers. Users on Windows 11 Home or Pro versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2, not managed by IT departments, will receive the update automatically unless a safeguard hold is in place due to potential issues. Notifications will be sent via Windows Update when the update is downloading and ready for installation. Users can postpone the update but cannot decline it entirely.
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