IT infrastructure

Winsage
June 4, 2026
Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS) now supports the generation of post-quantum certificates, enhancing quantum-safe cryptography within Windows' secure connection protocols. Microsoft has integrated PQ TLS hybrid key exchange into the Windows Transport Layer Security (TLS) stack, providing protection against "Harvest Now, Decrypt Later" attacks. The PQ TLS hybrid key exchange combines traditional cryptographic methods with the NIST ML-KEM algorithm, offering three hybrid combinations: X25519MLKEM768, SecP256r1MLKEM768, and SecP384r1_MLKEM1024. This feature is available in preview via the Windows Insider Program and will be rolled out to Windows 11 and Windows Server. Additionally, Windows cryptography APIs now support composite ML-KEM and ML-DSA algorithms, which are NIST-approved standards for key exchange and digital signatures, enhancing security by requiring multiple components to be compromised. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of establishing new Certification Authorities (CAs) for implementing post-quantum certificate issuance, as existing CAs cannot be upgraded. The introduction of ML-DSA support within ADCS allows organizations to counter HNDL risks associated with long-lived data. Organizations are encouraged to inventory their use of public-key cryptography, prioritize systems protecting sensitive data, and test hybrid and composite approaches in non-production environments to facilitate a smooth transition to quantum-safe cryptography.
Tech Optimizer
June 3, 2026
Endpoints are critical computing devices connected to networks, including personal computers, tablets, smartphones, and smart appliances, and are often targeted in cyberattacks. Robust endpoint security is essential, especially in business environments with sensitive data. Endpoint protection solutions include antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems, and multi-factor authentication. - 81% of businesses have faced malware-related attacks. - 59% of ransomware incidents compromise data stored in public cloud environments. - In 2023, the average cost associated with breach detection and escalation reached USD 1.58 million. - 97% of executives access work accounts via personal devices. - During Q3 2024, malware detections at endpoints surged by 300%. - 13% of employees reported being victims of phishing attacks while working remotely. - 70% of employees using ChatGPT in the workplace do so without informing their employers. - 68% of companies have reported at least one successful endpoint attack that compromised their data or IT infrastructure. - 55% of professionals consider smartphones among the most vulnerable endpoints. - 47% of organizations monitor their networks around the clock. - The global financial impact of cybercrime is projected to exceed .5 trillion annually by 2025. - In 2021, 53% of organizations experienced successful ransomware attacks, marking a 148% increase from 2020. - Paying a ransom can double the total cost of a ransomware incident. - 40% of organizations delay patch rollouts to avoid potential conflicts. - 67% of IT professionals believe that Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies have weakened their organization's security posture. - 69% of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) expected at least one ransomware attack in 2022. - Only 50% of organizations encrypt sensitive data on their devices. - Organizations with a high number of remote workers face the greatest risks regarding endpoint security threats. - The endpoint security market is anticipated to grow from USD 13.37 billion in 2023 to USD 31.2 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1%. - Approximately 70% of companies plan to increase their investment in endpoint security solutions over the next two years. - The average financial impact of a data breach is estimated at around USD 4.88 million. - In 2023, the highest costs related to breaches were linked to detection and escalation, averaging USD 1.58 million. - As of 2024, the United States has the highest average cost of data breaches globally at USD 9.36 million. - A significant breach affecting 50 to 60 million records in 2024 is expected to cost USD 375 million. - Organizations facing compliance challenges typically incur an average breach cost of USD 5.05 million. - 40% of organizations admit to postponing patch implementations to avoid potential conflicts. - 92% of remote employees report using personal smartphones or tablets for work tasks. - 80% of executives are inclined to send work-related messages from personal devices. - 80-90% of successful ransomware attacks originate from unmanaged devices. - 62% of cybersecurity experts cite data loss and leaks as their primary concerns regarding BYOD policies. - 36% of employees using personal devices for work admit to delaying security updates. - 71% of employees store sensitive work passwords on personal phones. - 67% of organizations work with multiple vendors for management and security across various device types. - Only 42% of surveyed companies have a solution to proactively identify sensitive data on employee devices. - 38% of employees state that their employer lacks BYOD policies, or that existing policies are often disregarded. - There was a 300% increase in malware detections at endpoints during Q3 2024. - In 2024, a data breach involving Twilio compromised 33 million phone numbers linked to Authy accounts. - 90% of successful cyberattacks and up to 70% of data breaches originate from endpoint devices. - 54% of security experts reported that over 20% of their total endpoints were unmanaged. - 67% of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) faced AI-driven threats in the past year. - Among HR professionals who offboarded employees in the last year, 71% reported that at least one employee failed to return company-owned devices. - 65% of employees indicated they often bypass organizational security protocols to enhance productivity. - Over 90% of security incidents related to lost or stolen devices lead to unauthorized data breaches. - 13% of employees admit to being victims of phishing attacks while working remotely. - 63% of companies may have former employees retaining access to organizational data. - 62% of employees acknowledged transferring company intellectual property to personal devices. - 59% of stolen company-owned devices contained sensitive information. - Gartner estimates that shadow IT accounts for 30-40% of IT expenditures in large organizations. - 80% of employees engage in shadow IT activities. - 76% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) believe shadow IT poses a security risk. - 58% of SMBs have encountered significant shadow IT initiatives without the knowledge of their official IT departments. - 30% of IT leaders cite information security as the primary challenge to adopting BYOD policies. - The prevalence of shadow IT has surged by 59% due to remote work. - 70% of employees using ChatGPT in the workplace do so without employer knowledge. - 32% of remote and hybrid employees use applications or software not sanctioned by IT. - 59% of organizations have experienced data loss due to cloud-based shadow IT. - ChatGPT is the most frequently used unauthorized application among employees. - By 2027, it is projected that 75% of employees will acquire, modify, or create technology beyond IT's visibility. - The trend of paying ransoms has increased; over 47.8% of companies chose to pay in Q3, rising to 59.6% in Q4. - Tanium raised USD 300 million in Series G funding, resulting in a valuation of USD 9 billion. - Cybereason secured USD 275 million in Series F funding. - SentinelOne acquired Attivo Networks in a transaction valued at USD 616 million.
Winsage
May 15, 2026
Microsoft is enhancing its cybersecurity measures by integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve real-time threat detection and response. The company offers comprehensive security solutions for various IT infrastructure aspects and fosters collaboration with other tech firms and government entities to share intelligence on emerging threats. This proactive approach aims to empower organizations worldwide to strengthen their defenses against cyberattacks.
Winsage
April 23, 2026
The Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) has approved a £2 billion class action against Microsoft, aimed at compensating approximately 59,000 businesses using the Windows Server operating system in non-Microsoft public clouds. The collective action, led by Maria Luisa Stasi, alleges that Microsoft has overcharged UK entities for Windows Server on competing cloud services. The tribunal dismissed Microsoft's objections and granted a Collective Proceedings Order on an opt-out basis. The class action addresses two main issues: pricing abuse related to the Microsoft Service Provider License Agreement (SPLA) and re-licensing abuse concerning the deployment of Windows Server on Azure versus other cloud providers. The UK Competition and Markets Authority is also investigating Microsoft's software licensing practices within the cloud market. James Hain-Cole from law firm Scott+Scott expressed satisfaction with the tribunal's decision, emphasizing its significance for securing compensation for affected businesses.
Winsage
April 22, 2026
Windows 365 Link, a service launched a year ago, enhances the Windows 365 experience by providing a cloud-based Windows environment that is easy to manage, secure, and cost-effective. It allows organizations to scale Cloud PCs without local data or applications. Over the past year, it has expanded into new regions and industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services. Organizations using Windows 365 Link have reported benefits like reduced management burdens and seamless access for workers. The partner network has grown to over 200 resellers in 20 countries, facilitating quick deployment. Upcoming updates include support for Bluetooth device pairing, tenant branding, USB redirection, and visibility into pending updates on sign-in screens.
Winsage
April 22, 2026
Support for Windows Server 2016 will officially end on January 12, 2027, ceasing security updates and bug fixes. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows Server 2019 or later to maintain support and security. Businesses are advised to assess their IT infrastructure and develop a migration strategy to ensure continuity and security. Engaging with IT professionals is recommended for managing the transition effectively.
Winsage
April 17, 2026
Microsoft has acknowledged that the April 2026 security update for Windows Server, patch KB5082063, has caused significant disruptions for some enterprise domain controllers, leading to continuous reboot cycles in non-Global Catalog domain controllers used in Privileged Access Management (PAM) deployments. This has resulted in the unavailability of Active Directory authentication and directory services on affected servers. Additionally, the installation of KB5082063 may fail on some Windows Server 2025 systems. This issue marks the third consecutive year that April security updates have caused problems for Windows Server domain controllers. In previous years, Microsoft issued emergency fixes for similar issues, including crashes and complications with NTLM authentication. Administrators currently have limited options, including delaying the update, isolating a test domain controller, or engaging with Microsoft Support for tailored mitigation steps.
Winsage
January 16, 2026
Microsoft has officially ceased all support for Windows Server 2008 as of January 13, 2026, including paid extended security updates. This end-of-life scenario poses significant security risks for organizations still using the outdated operating system, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. The transition away from Windows Server 2008 requires careful planning, as many organizations face challenges in migrating legacy applications to modern systems. The lack of ongoing patches means that any new vulnerabilities will remain unaddressed, potentially leading to data breaches and compliance failures, particularly in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance. Microsoft has encouraged migration to Azure, offering incentives for early adopters, but the transition can be complex and costly. The end of support also affects global supply chains and compatibility with newer software applications. Organizations are advised to conduct audits of their software portfolios and consider hybrid environments to enhance flexibility and security.
Winsage
December 24, 2025
Galen Hunt, a Distinguished Engineer at Microsoft, has proposed to eliminate all C and C++ code within the company, focusing on transitioning to Rust. This initiative aims to address technical debt and improve memory safety, as C and C++ are responsible for approximately 70% of vulnerabilities in Microsoft products. Microsoft plans to leverage AI and modern tooling to facilitate this transition, which includes rewriting portions of the Windows kernel in Rust. Hunt is seeking a Principal Software Engineer with Rust expertise to support this effort. The adoption of Rust is growing globally, with a reported 2.3 million developers using it, and major tech companies are increasingly integrating it into their infrastructure.
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