Microsoft Outlook Archives

Winsage

March 27, 2025

10 pesky Windows 11 24H2 bugs still haunting PCs despite several patches

In October, Microsoft released the 2024 update for Windows 11, known as Windows 11 24H2, which enhances Copilot AI, refines File Explorer, and improves performance and stability. The update is available for users of Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2 through the Windows Update screen or Microsoft's official Download Windows 11 page. However, various bugs have been reported, leading Microsoft to temporarily pause the update for certain problematic PCs. Notable issues include: 1. AutoCAD 2022 may not open on some systems. 2. PCs with Citrix components may struggle with installation due to a glitch from the January Patch Tuesday update. 3. Compatibility issues with the Easy Anti-Cheat program can result in Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, particularly on Intel Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Users report internet connectivity problems after the update, with some unable to receive a valid IP address. 5. Network sharing issues prevent devices from appearing in the network list. 6. Printer setup issues affect users of Copilot+ PCs from various manufacturers. 7. Audio output problems occur on PCs with Dirac Audio technology. 8. Outlook may fail to launch if Google Workspace Sync is installed. 9. Integrated camera issues affect the Windows camera app and Windows Hello facial recognition. 10. Compatibility problems with Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers may trigger blue screens on certain PCs. Microsoft has issued several patches to address these bugs since the update's launch, but some patches have introduced new issues.

Winsage

March 4, 2025

CISA tags Windows, Cisco vulnerabilities as actively exploited

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an advisory for U.S. federal agencies to enhance their defenses against cyberattacks targeting vulnerabilities in Cisco and Windows systems. Two specific vulnerabilities have been identified: 1. CVE-2023-20118, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on certain VPN routers, requiring valid administrative credentials for exploitation. This vulnerability can be combined with CVE-2023-20025, an authentication bypass that grants root privileges to attackers. Cisco acknowledged this issue in an advisory in January 2023, with proof-of-concept exploit code publicly available. 2. CVE-2018-8639, a Win32k elevation of privilege flaw that allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode, enabling data manipulation and unauthorized account creation. Microsoft issued a security advisory regarding this vulnerability in December 2018, affecting both client and server platforms. CISA has added both vulnerabilities to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, requiring Federal Civilian Executive Branch agencies to secure their networks against these vulnerabilities by March 23, as per the Binding Operational Directive 22-01. Additionally, CISA has alerted federal agencies to another critical vulnerability, CVE-2024-21413, in Microsoft Outlook, requiring patches by February 27.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

10 bugs still haunt Windows 11 24H2 despite multiple patches

In October, Microsoft released the Windows 11 24H2 update, enhancing Copilot AI and improving File Explorer, performance, and stability. The update is available for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2 through Windows Update or Microsoft's Download Windows 11 page. However, the update has encountered multiple bugs, leading Microsoft to pause it for certain problematic PCs. Several patches have been released to address these issues, including initial fixes in late October, further resolutions in mid-November, and specific updates for USB device issues, conflicts with Ubisoft games, and an optional preview update in January. Ongoing issues include AutoCAD 2022 not opening, conflicts with Citrix components, Easy Anti-Cheat causing blue screens, driver incompatibilities leading to blue screens, internet connection problems, broken clipboard history, network sharing failures, printer setup issues on Copilot+ PCs, audio output glitches, and Outlook failing to launch with Google Workspace Sync. Microsoft has acknowledged these problems and is working on solutions while maintaining a Known Issues and Notifications page.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

100+ run commands that can help you work efficiently on Windows

Windows 11 and 10 provide run commands that streamline workflow by allowing quick access to various system tools, applications, settings, and diagnostic features. Administrative Tools: - compmgmt.msc: Opens Computer Management. - devmgmt.msc: Launches Device Manager. - diskmgmt.msc: Opens Disk Management. - services.msc: Manages background services. - eventvwr.msc: Opens Event Viewer. - secpol.msc: Opens Local Security Policy. - regedit: Opens Registry Editor. - taskschd.msc: Opens Task Scheduler. - gpedit.msc: Opens Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise). System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: - msinfo32: Opens System Information. - dxdiag: Launches DirectX Diagnostic Tool. - verifier: Opens Driver Verifier Manager. - resmon: Opens Resource Monitor. - perfmon: Opens Performance Monitor. - mdsched: Runs Windows Memory Diagnostic. - msdt: Opens Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. - sfc /scannow: Scans and repairs system files. - chkdsk: Runs Check Disk. - winver: Checks Windows version. - cleanmgr: Opens Disk Cleanup. File and Storage Management: - cleanmgr: Launches Disk Cleanup. - dfrgui: Opens Disk Defragmenter. - chkdsk: Checks and repairs disk errors. - diskpart: Opens Disk Partition utility. - onedrive: Opens OneDrive folder. - shell:AppsFolder: Opens all apps folder. - wab: Opens Windows contacts folder. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - recent: Opens recent files and folders. - documents: Opens Documents folder. - downloads: Opens Downloads folder. - favorites: Opens Favorites folder. - pictures: Opens Pictures folder. - videos: Opens Videos folder. - %AppData%: Opens App Data folder. - debug: Accesses Debug folder. - backup: Opens backup folder. - %systemdrive%: Opens system drive. Security and Maintenance: - firewall.cpl: Opens Windows Defender Firewall. - wf.msc: Launches Firewall with advanced security. - ms-settings:windowsdefender: Opens Windows Security. - sigverif: Verifies file signatures. - verifier: Checks driver integrity. - msconfig: Opens System Configuration. - sfc /scannow: Runs system file checker. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. Launching Apps: - notepad: Opens Notepad. - calc: Launches Calculator. - snippingtool: Opens Snipping Tool. - mspaint: Opens Microsoft Paint. - winword: Starts Microsoft Word. - excel: Opens Microsoft Excel. - chrome: Launches Google Chrome. - msedge: Opens Microsoft Edge. - control: Opens Control Panel. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - powerpnt: Opens Microsoft PowerPoint. - firefox: Opens Mozilla Firefox. - wmplayer: Opens Windows Media Player. - msra: Opens Windows Remote Assistance. - outlook: Opens Microsoft Outlook. Navigating Settings: - ms-settings: Opens main Settings app. - ms-settings:network: Opens network & internet settings. - ms-settings:display: Opens display settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens personalization settings. - ms-settings:windowsupdate: Opens Windows Update settings. - ms-settings:privacy: Opens Privacy settings. - ms-settings:bluetooth: Opens Bluetooth settings. - ms-settings:devices: Opens Devices settings. - ms-settings:system: Opens System settings. - ms-settings:accounts: Opens Accounts settings. - ms-settings:timeandlanguage: Opens Time & Language settings. - ms-settings:gaming: Opens Gaming settings. - ms-settings:region: Opens Region settings. - ms-settings:optionalfeatures: Opens Optional Features settings. - ms-settings:storage: Opens Storage settings. - ms-settings:notifications: Opens Notifications settings. - ms-settings:taskbar: Opens Taskbar settings. - ms-settings:start: Opens Start Menu settings. - ms-settings:lockscreen: Opens Lock Screen settings. Network and Connectivity: - ncpa.cpl: Opens Network Connections. - ipconfig: Displays IP configuration. - ping: Tests network connectivity. - control netconnections: Opens Network and Sharing Center. - ms-settings:network-wifi: Opens Wi-Fi settings. - ms-settings:datausage: View data usage. - ms-settings:network-vpn: Manage VPN. - ms-settings:network-proxy: Configures proxy settings. Display and Appearance: - desk.cpl: Opens Display Settings. - control color: Customizes window colors. - dpiscaling: Opens display scaling settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens Personalization settings. - ms-settings:themes: Changes desktop themes. - ms-settings:display-advanced: Adjusts advanced display settings. Accessibility: - magnify: Opens Magnifier. - narrator: Launches Narrator. - osk: Opens on-screen keyboard. - utilman: Opens Ease of Access Center. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-display: Opens display accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-cursor: Opens cursor accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mouse: Opens mouse accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-keyboard: Opens keyboard accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-narrator: Opens narrator accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-magnifier: Opens magnifier accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-colorfilter: Opens color filter accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-highcontrast: Opens high contrast accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-closedcaptioning: Opens closed captioning accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-audio: Opens audio accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-eyecontrol: Opens eye control accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mousepointer: Opens mouse pointer accessibility settings. Power Management: - powercfg.cpl: Opens Power Options. - ms-settings:powersleep: Adjusts power and sleep settings. - powercfg /batteryreport: Generates a battery report. - powercfg /energy: Creates an energy efficiency report. - powercfg /hibernate: Enables or disables hibernation. - powercfg /deviceenablewake: Enables a device to wake the computer. - powercfg /devicedisablewake: Disables a device from waking the computer.

Winsage

February 12, 2025

Microsoft Patch Tuesday February 2025 – 61 Vulnerabilities Fixed, 3 Actively Exploited in the Wild

Microsoft's February Patch Tuesday update addresses 61 vulnerabilities, including 25 critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerabilities. Three of these are zero-days, actively exploited before the update: 1. CVE-2023-24932: Secure Boot security feature bypass requiring physical access or administrative rights. 2. CVE-2025-21391: Windows Storage elevation of privilege vulnerability that could lead to data deletion. 3. CVE-2025-21418: Vulnerability in Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock allowing privilege escalation. Critical vulnerabilities include: - CVE-2025-21376: Windows LDAP RCE vulnerability. - CVE-2025-21379: RCE vulnerability in DHCP Client Service. - CVE-2025-21381: RCE vulnerability in Microsoft Excel. The update also addresses additional vulnerabilities related to remote code execution, elevation of privilege, denial of service, security feature bypass, spoofing, and information disclosure across various Microsoft products. Microsoft advises immediate application of the updates to mitigate risks.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

Windows 10 KB5051974 update force installs new Microsoft Outlook app

Microsoft has released the KB5051974 cumulative update for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, which includes the new Outlook for Windows app and addresses a memory leak issue. This mandatory update provides essential security updates for January 2025 and can be installed via Windows Update. After installation, version 22H2 will be updated to build 19045.5487, and version 21H2 to build 19044.5487. Users can also manually download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update includes several fixes, such as the introduction of the new Outlook app, resolution of issues with the Capture Service and Snipping Tool, disabling automatic suggestions from Bing in the Chinese Pinyin IME, fixes for USB audio device driver issues, and a solution for virtual memory depletion. Three known issues from previous updates include potential failures in OpenSSH connections, installation failures due to the Citrix Session Recording Agent, and an Event 7023 error related to SgrmBroker.exe, which does not affect device functionality. Microsoft plans to address these issues in future updates.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

9 tools that will supercharge your productivity on Windows

- Microsoft Outlook is a free, built-in tool for managing emails, appointments, meetings, and tasks, featuring calendar sharing and integration with Microsoft To Do. - IFTTT automates repetitive tasks by connecting various apps, services, and devices through customized applets. - The Windows Snipping Tool captures screenshots, records desktop activity, supports full-screen video recording, and has OCR capabilities for text extraction from images. - Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities that enhances the Windows experience, including tools for multitasking, file management, and keeping the PC active. - Grammarly provides real-time grammar and spelling checks, compatible with platforms like Microsoft Word and Google Docs, with a premium version offering advanced features. - Obsidian uses Markdown to create interconnected notes, allowing users to build a personal knowledge base with customizable plugins. - Microsoft 365 includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive, with regular updates for new features and security. - UniGetUI is a package manager that simplifies app installations by allowing users to select and install multiple applications simultaneously. - Flow Launcher allows users to quickly launch applications, files, and websites, enhancing workflow efficiency and providing flexibility as a portable app or standard installation.

Winsage

December 28, 2024

Windows 11 Bug Won’t Let You Install Any New Security Updates; Here’s How To Fix It

Microsoft has alerted Windows 11 users to a bug that may hinder system updates, specifically affecting the downloading of future security updates during the installation of Windows 11 version 24H2 when using external media devices like CDs or USB flash drives. This issue is particularly relevant for professional users and tech enthusiasts. However, it does not impact users installing the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog. The bug is limited to security updates released between October 8 and November 12, with a more recent version rolled out on December 10. Microsoft is working on a solution and recommends that affected users install Windows 11 version 24H2 alongside the December 2024 monthly security update as a temporary workaround. Additionally, Microsoft has identified other potential issues, such as some games using Auto HDR becoming unresponsive and difficulties launching Microsoft Outlook with Google Workspace Sync enabled. Microsoft is aware of these issues and is pursuing solutions.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

New Windows 11 24H2 bug list: 12 reasons to avoid this update for now

On October 1, Microsoft released the 2024 update for Windows 11, named Windows 11 24H2, which includes an upgraded Copilot AI, a revamped File Explorer, and performance improvements. The update is available through the Windows Update screen or can be downloaded from Microsoft's website. However, the rollout has encountered several bugs, prompting Microsoft to temporarily halt the update for certain devices. Key issues reported include: 1. Conflicts with Ubisoft games, causing freezes or crashes. 2. Problems with the Auto HDR feature leading to incorrect color displays or unresponsive games. 3. Incompatibility with Easy Anti-Cheat software, resulting in blue screens for users with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Blue screens due to driver incompatibilities, particularly with Intel's Smart Sound Technology and certain hardware configurations. 5. A bug causing the mouse pointer to disappear in Chromium-based applications. 6. Erratic internet connectivity issues, with some devices unable to obtain a valid IP address. 7. A time zone setting issue preventing users without administrative privileges from changing their time zone. 8. Problems with the clipboard history feature appearing empty despite copied items. 9. Network sharing issues where devices fail to appear in the network list. 10. Printer setup difficulties for users of Copilot+ PCs, particularly with HP, Canon, and Brother printers. 11. Audio output issues for users utilizing Dirac Audio technology. 12. Microsoft Outlook failing to launch for users relying on Google Workspace Sync. Microsoft has acknowledged these issues and is working on patches and solutions. Users are advised to delay upgrading to the 2024 version until these problems are resolved.

Winsage

December 20, 2024

Microsoft says Auto HDR causes game freezes on Windows 11 24H2

Microsoft has implemented a block on Windows 11 24H2 upgrades for systems with Auto HDR enabled due to reports of game freezes and graphical anomalies. Auto HDR enhances gaming visuals but has caused concerns among users regarding high-contrast and oversaturated visuals. Microsoft warned that enabling Auto HDR could lead to incorrect color representation and unresponsive games. Users experiencing issues are advised to disable Auto HDR through the 'Settings' app. A compatibility hold has been placed on devices with Auto HDR enabled, tagged with safeguard ID 55382406. Additionally, Microsoft has lifted a previous compatibility hold related to Ubisoft game bugs and blocked upgrades on systems with outdated Google Workspace Sync installations and incompatible Intel Smart Sound Technology audio drivers.