LTSC Archives

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Ditching Windows 10 is the only route for people who want privacy

Users of Windows 10 face a decision as the end-of-support date approaches, with options to continue using Windows 10, upgrade to Windows 11, or switch to alternative operating systems. Remaining on Windows 10 without support is not viable due to security risks, especially for online devices. Opting for extended support may compromise privacy, as it often requires a Microsoft account. The Windows 10 LTSC edition offers longer support but may lead to compatibility issues with third-party applications. Transitioning to alternative operating systems, like Fedora KDE, may provide smoother experiences for users.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Microsoft releases emergency fix for broken Windows PC reset feature

Microsoft released emergency patches, known as "out-of-band" updates, to address critical issues with its operating systems. The updates include KB5066189 for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2, KB5066188 for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, and KB5066187 for Windows 10 LTSC 2019. These updates fix problems caused by the August 2025 security update, which led to installation failures (error code 0x8007007F) and disrupted reset and restore functionalities on Windows devices. The updates are available through Windows Update, but users must manually select and install the appropriate patch.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

Microsoft: August security updates break Windows recovery, reset

Microsoft has acknowledged a significant issue with the August 2025 Windows security updates that disrupt reset and recovery operations on devices running Windows 10 and earlier versions of Windows 11. The affected platforms include Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2, Windows 10 22H2, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2019. Users may experience failures when attempting to use the “Reset my PC” feature or remotely reset devices via the RemoteWipe configuration service provider. Microsoft is working on a resolution expected to be released through out-of-band updates. Additionally, Microsoft has implemented fixes for other issues related to Windows update failures and certificate enrollment errors.

Winsage

August 16, 2025

Extension of Windows 10 support: UpDownTool offers free Windows 10 LTSC downgrade with updates until 2032

Microsoft has partnered with Technixstuff to combine Microsoft's software solutions with Technixstuff's hardware capabilities. The collaboration aims to create integrated technology solutions, enhancing user experiences and anticipating future technological trends. Key offerings expected from this partnership include enhanced software solutions integrating cloud services with hardware, the development of smart devices utilizing AI and machine learning, and streamlined services for operational efficiency. Industry analysts view this partnership as a potential model for future collaborations in the tech sector.

Winsage

August 15, 2025

Microsoft reminds of Windows 10 support ending in two months

Microsoft has announced that all editions of Windows 10, version 22H2 will reach end of servicing on October 14, 2025. On this date, Windows 10 2015 LTSB and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2015 will also conclude their extended support, and Microsoft will stop providing bug fixes or technical assistance for these versions. The final security update for Windows 10, version 22H2 will be released in October 2025. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 or migrate to Windows 11 in the cloud via Windows 365 to maintain security updates. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available for those who wish to delay transitioning to Windows 11. Windows 10 devices connected to Windows 11 Cloud PCs can benefit from ESU at no extra charge. Specialized devices can switch to Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) releases, which will continue to receive updates beyond October 2025. Windows 11 has surpassed Windows 10 in install base, with over 53% of systems running Windows 11 compared to 42% on Windows 10. As of July 2025, 59.9% of gamers are using Windows 11, while 35.1% are on Windows 10. Microsoft provides resources for users to check end-of-service dates for various Windows releases.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

UpDownTool lets you move from Windows 11 to Windows 10 in just 5 clicks – without losing any data

A new application called UpDownTool allows users to revert from Windows 11 to Windows 10 without losing programs, files, drivers, or settings. Many users are dissatisfied with Windows 11 due to sluggish performance, a less intuitive interface, increased system requirements, and the removal of familiar features. Microsoft has limited options for downgrading, typically allowing a 10-day rollback period or requiring a clean install. UpDownTool simplifies the process by enabling users to transition to Windows 10 LTSC 2021 while preserving core data and configurations. Windows 10 LTSC 2021 is designed for long-term deployment and receives extended updates, with support for the IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 edition lasting until January 2032. The LTSC edition does not include preinstalled applications like the Microsoft Store and Cortana, making it appealing for users seeking a minimalist experience. UpDownTool can also repair existing Windows 10 LTSC installations or convert other editions to LTSC. Users must be cautious of licensing implications, as LTSC licenses are typically not available through consumer channels. The downgrade process involves downloading the installer and executing a batch script, with the system booting into Windows 10 LTSC 2021 upon completion. Users are advised to back up important files before proceeding.

Winsage

July 10, 2025

Microsoft admits Windows Server Update Services sync is failing

Microsoft has acknowledged ongoing issues with Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) that are affecting the synchronization and deployment of updates, leading to significant challenges for businesses. Users have reported synchronization failures and timeout errors, with many expressing frustration over the lack of communication from Microsoft. The affected platforms include various versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11, as well as multiple Windows Server versions. Error logs indicate problems such as "Unable to connect to the remote server." Currently, there is no workaround available, and Microsoft is working on repairs related to a problematic update revision. Reports of the issue have emerged globally, with some users experiencing new errors and an overwhelming number of updates being downloaded.

Winsage

July 9, 2025

Zero Day Initiative — The July 2025 Security Update Review

In July 2025, Adobe released 13 bulletins addressing 60 unique CVEs across various applications, including ColdFusion, After Effects, and Illustrator. ColdFusion received a Priority 1 patch for 13 CVEs, five of which are Critical. FrameMaker's patch fixed 15 CVEs, including 13 Critical vulnerabilities. Illustrator's update addressed 10 bugs, with the most severe enabling code execution. Other applications like InCopy and InDesign also had Critical vulnerabilities fixed. Microsoft released 130 new CVEs across its products, with 10 rated Critical. Notable vulnerabilities include CVE-2025-47981, a heap-based buffer overflow in Windows SPNEGO, and CVE-2025-49717 affecting Microsoft SQL Server. CVE-2025-49704 allows code injection in SharePoint, while CVE-2025-49695 highlights an attack vector in Microsoft Office's Preview Pane.

Winsage

June 25, 2025

Microsoft opens a free tier for Windows 10 extended updates

Microsoft is introducing new enrollment options for its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program as Windows 10 approaches its end of life. Users can enroll by utilizing Windows Backup to sync settings to the cloud at no cost, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or paying a fee with local pricing variations. The Windows Backup app stores data on Microsoft OneDrive, which offers limited free storage, necessitating the purchase of additional storage for larger files. Users can subscribe to Microsoft 365 for extra OneDrive space and updates. Businesses can subscribe to ESU for a fee per device, covering security updates for one year, renewable annually for up to three years. Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 or Virtual Machines will receive ESU at no additional cost.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

I refuse to upgrade to Windows 11, here’s what I’m doing instead

An old PC with a decade-old motherboard continues to perform basic tasks but struggles with gaming and faces the end of support for Windows 10 in October. The user is not upgrading to Windows 11 due to dissatisfaction with its features and customization limitations. They are considering alternatives, including sticking with Windows 10, which feels temporary, or trying Linux Mint. After a trial run with Linux Mint, the user found the transition seamless and appreciated its customizability and community support. As the end of Windows 10 approaches, the user sees Linux Mint as a stable and personalized computing option.