management Archives

Winsage

May 16, 2026

Microsoft reverses course on Edge password handling but denies users were ever at risk

Microsoft Edge will implement a change in password management by no longer loading passwords into memory at startup, as part of an update to version 148. This change is already operational in the Canary Channel and will soon be available to all users.

Winsage

May 15, 2026

Windows Update will soon roll back problematic drivers automatically

Microsoft has introduced a feature called Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery (CIDR) for Windows 11, which allows the automatic rollback of problematic drivers without user intervention. This feature aims to restore system stability by reverting to a previously verified, stable driver directly from the Hardware Dev Center when a driver update causes issues. CIDR will begin a gradual rollout starting in September. Additionally, Microsoft is enhancing user control over update management, allowing users to pause or skip updates and manage restarts without immediate installation. The company also launched the Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) to improve kernel-mode driver security and reliability.

Winsage

May 15, 2026

Windows Update Will Soon Revert Problematic Drivers Automatically

Microsoft has introduced "Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery" (CIDR) for Windows Update, which automatically rolls back problematic drivers without user intervention. This system allows Microsoft to trigger recovery actions directly from the Hardware Dev Center, eliminating the need for partners or users to resolve driver issues. The CIDR rollout began in September and aims to address long-standing driver problems, such as the NVIDIA "Nvlddmkm.sys" error. Additionally, users can now pause and skip updates and restart their PCs without mandatory installations. Microsoft is also launching a Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) to enhance the security and reliability of kernel mode drivers through improved verification processes and lifecycle management.

Tech Optimizer

May 15, 2026

From commit to cloud: Powering what’s next for PostgreSQL

PostgreSQL is widely used across various industries, supported by Microsoft through significant investments, including 345 commits to the latest release and a dedicated team of contributors. It is recognized for its ability to handle complex production challenges, such as transactional integrity and concurrency management. Microsoft operates PostgreSQL globally, informing upstream contributions based on real-world deployment experiences. The database is increasingly integrated into AI applications, with Azure Database for PostgreSQL and Azure HorizonDB focusing on AI functionalities. Microsoft offers multiple deployment models to accommodate different workload needs, including Azure Database for PostgreSQL for open-source workloads and Azure HorizonDB for cloud-native systems. Recent contributions from Microsoft include enhancements in asynchronous I/O, vacuum behavior, and query planning. Azure HorizonDB is designed for high-throughput, low-latency systems requiring horizontal scaling. Microsoft also invests in developer tools, such as a Visual Studio Code extension for PostgreSQL, and sponsors PostgreSQL conferences and user groups globally.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Microsoft Announces Driver Quality Initiative for Windows

Microsoft has launched the Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) to improve the quality and reliability of drivers for its Windows platform. This initiative focuses on enhancing driver development and management, influenced by insights from the Windows Resiliency Initiative. The DQI is based on four pillars: Architecture, Trust, Lifecycle, and Quality measures. Microsoft plans to invest in kernel mode drivers, transitioning third-party kernel mode drivers to user mode drivers or Microsoft-authored class drivers. The initiative aims to improve driver lifecycle management and expand metrics for assessing driver quality, including stability, functionality, performance, and power impact. Feedback from partners has been positive regarding the initiative's approach to driver quality metrics and lifecycle states. Microsoft aims to enhance reliability, security, performance, compatibility, and overall quality in the Windows ecosystem.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Microsoft Fixes Windows Autopatch Bug Installing Restricted Drivers on Windows 11

Microsoft's Windows Autopatch service mistakenly deployed restricted driver updates to some managed Windows devices without proper approval, affecting Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2. This led to unexpected restarts and stability issues. Microsoft implemented a server-side fix to address this problem, confirming that only a limited subset of devices in the EU region was impacted and that no client-side action was required. Additionally, some users faced difficulties installing Office on Windows 365 machines due to a configuration change from a recent service update.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Windows Update will soon automatically roll back faulty drivers

Microsoft is introducing a feature in Windows 11 that allows users to pause updates indefinitely, enhancing user control over their systems. Additionally, they are rolling out a "Cloud-Initiated Driver Recovery" feature that enables automatic reversion of problematic drivers installed via Windows Update, allowing Microsoft to replace faulty drivers directly from the cloud without user intervention. This updated Windows Update experience is currently being tested with hardware partners and is expected to begin a gradual rollout in September. Users will also gain the ability to extend pause dates, skip updates during device setup, and restart or shut down their PCs without needing to install pending updates.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Raising the bar together. Introducing the Driver Quality Initiative at WinHEC 2026

The Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) 2026 took place in Taipei, marking Microsoft's return to the event after a hiatus since 2018. The conference focused on the Driver Quality Initiative (DQI), aimed at improving driver quality, reliability, and security on the Windows platform. The DQI is built on four pillars: Architecture, Trust, Lifecycle, and Quality Measures. Key themes discussed included the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, enhancing Windows 11 quality, and fostering innovation through strong foundational practices. Attendees participated in workshops and hands-on labs to deepen their understanding of driver development and compatibility testing. Partners expressed a shared commitment to improving driver and platform quality, emphasizing the need for transparency and ongoing engagement. Microsoft plans to continue investing in reliability, security, performance, compatibility, and quality in collaboration with its partners.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Windows on ARM Security: How to Protect ARM-Based Windows Devices Without Gaps

The transition to Windows on ARM devices is increasing across various sectors, with organizations drawn to their performance, efficiency, and battery life. However, there are concerns about securing these devices without introducing vulnerabilities. Windows on ARM security involves safeguarding ARM64-based Windows devices with endpoint security solutions optimized for ARM architecture. The lack of native ARM64 endpoint protection can leave devices vulnerable. Windows on ARM devices operate on ARM64 architecture, differing from traditional x86/x64 systems, which can lead to incomplete protection, performance issues, and compatibility challenges with legacy security tools. This creates security gaps, making ARM-based devices attractive targets for threats like ransomware. To secure ARM-based Windows endpoints effectively, organizations need native ARM64 endpoint protection that ensures optimal performance, consistent protection across all devices, and centralized policy management. Morphisec offers native ARM64 endpoint protection, focusing on preventing threats before execution and providing seamless deployment and management. Without native support, organizations risk fragmented security tools, an expanded attack surface, and operational inefficiencies. Implementing native ARM64 endpoint protection allows for standardized security, simplified processes, and enhanced resilience against advanced threats.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

Samsung may be working on its most aggressive anti-distraction tool yet

Samsung is developing a feature for One UI 9 called “Network management for concentration,” which aims to help users manage distractions by controlling internet access for specific app categories, including Browser, Game, Social, Streaming, and Other. This feature is found in the hidden Connectivity Labs menu and allows users to restrict internet access without manual intervention. It includes a six-digit PIN system for security, ensuring only authorized users can modify settings, and features a “Downtime” mode to schedule automatic activation of restrictions. The feature is currently in the experimental phase, with its public release uncertain.