kernels Archives

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Windows User Switches to Linux, Misses Windows Hello

The author transitioned from Windows to Linux for daily workflows, finding that most essential tools adapted well. Linux distributions can easily detect hardware on modern x86 laptops, and community projects enhance compatibility for devices like Microsoft’s Surface. Software integration was smooth, with applications like Microsoft Edge and 1Password functioning without issues. However, the author misses Windows Hello's biometric sign-in, which lacks a universal equivalent in Linux. Community solutions exist but often require technical adjustments. Linux desktops provide a polished experience, but challenges remain, such as webcam functionality and sleep/resume issues. Selecting compatible hardware is crucial for a successful transition, and Linux holds about 4% of the desktop market share globally.

AppWizard

January 26, 2026

Surfshark stops updating app for older Android phones – check your version now

Surfshark has discontinued support for the Android 5.0 (Lollipop) operating system. Users are encouraged to upgrade to at least Android 6.0 to continue receiving official app support and security enhancements. The decision is part of Surfshark's strategy to focus on modern security standards and advanced features like post-quantum encryption, which cannot be securely managed on older Android kernels. Manual connections are still possible for legacy hardware, but upgrading is strongly recommended.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

Wine 11 runs Windows apps in Linux and macOS better than ever

Wine 11.0 has been released, allowing users to run 16-bit, 32-bit, and 64-bit Windows x86 binaries on Unix-like operating systems without distinguishing between 32-bit and 64-bit commands. It introduces support for the Linux kernel's NT synchronization primitive, enhancing performance for Windows binaries. Wine 11 is compatible with older kernels, though with reduced performance. It supports x86-to-Arm translation on Arm64 Linux systems through FEX-Emu and works on Apple Silicon Macs via Rosetta 2. The version simplifies command usage to a single wine command and eliminates 32-bit support libraries. Enhancements include improved clipboard handling over Wayland, full-screen mode functionality, Direct3D support, native Vulkan video decoding for H.264, and better handling of SCSI devices and game controllers. Wine 11 downloads are available for Linux and macOS, with a FreeBSD port expected. Testing on Ubuntu 25.10 under GNOME using Wayland showed positive results for both 32-bit and 64-bit applications.

Winsage

December 24, 2025

Microsoft engineer says Windows isn’t being rewritten to Rust with AI

Galen Hunt, a Distinguished Engineer at Microsoft, has proposed a plan to phase out all C and C++ code within the company, emphasizing that this initiative is focused on developing technologies for smoother transitions between programming languages rather than a complete rewrite of Windows in Rust. Microsoft aims to eliminate technical debt and address memory-related vulnerabilities, which account for about 70 percent of vulnerabilities in its products, by adopting Rust, a language known for its memory safety features. The company is leveraging advanced tooling and AI to facilitate the transition, and Hunt is seeking a Principal Software Engineer with Rust expertise to support these efforts. Microsoft’s commitment to Rust reflects a broader trend of increasing adoption of the language, with significant growth in enterprise settings. Major tech companies are also integrating Rust into their infrastructure, highlighting its importance for critical systems.

Winsage

December 24, 2025

Microsoft engineer says Windows isn’t being rewritten to Rust with AI

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.

Winsage

October 27, 2025

6 exciting and niche OS projects that are quietly growing as users leave Windows

More individuals are dissatisfied with Windows due to updates, telemetry, and restrictive design choices, especially with the end of life for Windows 10 approaching. This has led to a subtle migration towards niche operating systems. Zorin OS is a user-friendly Linux distribution designed for newcomers, featuring a familiar interface that mimics Windows and macOS, and is powered by Ubuntu for stability. It includes Zorin Connect for synchronizing notifications and emphasizes security and privacy. Haiku is a lightweight operating system that serves as a successor to BeOS, focusing on speed and simplicity, built entirely from scratch for a snappy user experience. SerenityOS is an independent project created from the ground up, featuring a nostalgic aesthetic and a complete desktop environment, with a focus on usability and craftsmanship. Ultramarine Linux is a Fedora-based distribution that simplifies open-source software for users, offering multimedia codecs and multiple desktop environments for a comprehensive experience. Vanilla OS introduces a modern approach to Linux with immutability, protecting core system files and allowing independent application management to enhance stability. ReactOS aims to recreate the Windows experience using open-source code, focusing on compatibility with Windows applications and drivers while fostering a community around its development.

Winsage

August 7, 2025

Updating your Linux kernel sounds scary, but here’s why it’s no different from a Windows update

Updating the Linux kernel is generally straightforward and low-risk, similar to Windows updates. Most Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and Linux Mint, manage kernel updates automatically through the package manager. When a new kernel is installed, the previous version remains intact, allowing users to revert to it if necessary via the GRUB boot menu. Kernel updates provide essential security patches, bug fixes, and improved hardware support. While manual installation of a kernel is possible, it is not required for most users. Tools are available for easier management of kernel versions, but the update process is designed to be user-friendly and safe.

AppWizard

July 21, 2025

Linux is the best thing to happen to PC gaming in years

PC gaming has experienced a notable shift due to the rise of Linux, particularly with the introduction of Valve's Steam Deck in mid-2021. The Steam Deck, built on a Linux foundation and utilizing Valve's Proton compatibility layer, has broadened the compatibility of games on Linux, allowing users to enjoy titles without dual-booting systems. This device has popularized handheld PC gaming, prompting other manufacturers to create similar devices. The Steam Deck's modest hardware has led to a trend of optimization among developers, resulting in better performance on lower-end systems. Valve's SteamOS has improved the user interface for both Linux and Windows users, making PC gaming more accessible. However, a significant challenge remains with anti-cheat software, which is difficult to implement across various Linux distributions. Despite this, the state of Linux gaming is strong for single-player experiences, and Valve is exploring solutions to enhance competitive gaming on Linux.

AppWizard

March 10, 2025

Here’s why Google is finally making big changes to Android updates in 2025

At MWC 2025, Google discussed its plans for Android 16, which will launch earlier than usual, specifically in Q2, allowing users to expect the update by June. The company aims to streamline Android updates and enhance support from OEMs, with a focus on longer software support. The Pixel series promises seven years of OS upgrades and security patches, and a collaboration with Qualcomm could extend this support to eight years for devices using Snapdragon 8 Elite and future 8-series and 7-series chips. Google is committed to improving the quality of updates, ensuring they enhance device performance.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

When old Microsoft codenames surface in unusual places

Windows 95 was internally codenamed "Chicago" during its development, while externally it was referred to as Windows 4.0 and Windows 93. The codename persisted in the implementation process, particularly in driver labeling, because drivers for Windows 95 were tagged with "Chicago" before the official name existed. This naming convention continued to be used even after the introduction of Windows XP, as the distinction between Windows NT and Windows 9x kernels faded. Codenames can lead to confusion and misinterpretation, as illustrated by a former Microsoft staffer's experience with the codename "Turbine" for Windows Server Azure Edition, which was mistakenly linked to an Xbox version.