NAS

Winsage
November 17, 2025
Windows 11 users are facing installation issues with the KB5068861 update from the November 2025 Patch Tuesday release, which addresses 63 critical security vulnerabilities. Errors reported include 0x80070306, 0x800f0983, and 0x800f081f. Affected users can wait for an optional release or use the Media Creation Tool, which downloads the same patch. Some users have reported a malfunctioning SMB search feature after the update. The installation errors have prompted reports of specific error codes, and attempts to resolve them through SFC scans or health checks have been largely ineffective. Downloading the .msu package from the Microsoft Update Catalog is recommended, followed by an installation attempt. If unsuccessful, the Media Creation Tool can be used while retaining user data. The November 2025 Update includes enhancements like a revamped Start menu, improved battery icons, and performance improvements, particularly for gamers. However, some users have encountered Bluetooth connectivity issues, especially on AMD PCs, with a temporary fix involving adjustments in Device Manager. The KB5068861 update has also caused a bug affecting search functionality over shared networks, leading to slower search results or empty listings for businesses. This issue arises from a breakdown in communication between the Windows client and the server’s search index. Users can restore functionality by restarting the Windows Search service or rebuilding the index. Additionally, the remote search functionality over SMB is compromised, preventing the Windows client from utilizing the server’s index. Users may need to uninstall the update to restore functionality, which requires disabling the Sandbox feature first. Specific DISM commands can be used to identify and remove the update, or it can be uninstalled through the Settings menu.
BetaBeacon
October 28, 2025
Marcel's wife wanted to find him a dedicated gaming device with proper physical controls and higher-quality games to replace the ad-filled games he played on his Android phone. After considering the Switch and Steam Deck, she decided on an Android gaming handheld based on advice from a colleague. When she gave Marcel the Retroid Pocket Classic as a gift, he was surprised but delighted, as he had been curious about old Game Boy units. He was unfamiliar with the concept of emulation and Android gaming handhelds but was excited to figure it out.
Winsage
October 20, 2025
A firewall acts as a barrier against threats to devices, with most operating systems including one for basic protection. The Windows Defender Firewall has a complex interface, but it features a powerful packet filtering engine. Simplewall is a standalone network filtering application built on the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) that offers users straightforward control over network traffic. It includes a rules editor that allows users to manage applications and services, enabling them to block or allow specific traffic easily. Users can create custom rules based on protocol, ports, or IP addresses, which is particularly useful in home lab environments. Simplewall also provides an OS-level blacklist to limit Microsoft's data collection and can block known advertising and tracking IPs. It is compatible with various Windows versions, including Windows 7 and ARM64 architecture, and can filter traffic from the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). Simplewall is available in a portable version, does not log telemetry data, and is open-source. However, users must manage rules carefully, as blocking critical services can lead to connectivity issues. The development of Simplewall is supported by a community that contributes to its improvement.
AppWizard
September 15, 2025
WD is implementing a comprehensive price increase on its hard drive offerings due to unprecedented demand and the need for ongoing investment in innovation. Customers may experience shipping delays of up to ten weeks as a result of these changes. The price adjustments will be gradual and effective immediately. Additionally, WD is shifting to ocean freight for a larger portion of its product shipments to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance sustainability.
AppWizard
September 8, 2025
Megan Ellis explores self-hosting solutions that offer cost savings and enhanced control over personal data. She has discovered various services that integrate with Android applications, improving her user experience through remote management, push notifications, and regular backups. Immich allows users to back up photos directly to their own servers, offering a sleek interface and features for folder selection and background syncing, although it can be slow at times. Paperless-ngx is an open-source document management platform that simplifies document uploads through its mobile app, making organization more efficient. Vikunja is an open-source to-do list app that provides push notifications but requires sideloading. It serves as an appealing alternative to TickTick for task management. Home Assistant is a self-hosted smart home automation platform that offers extensive functionality, though it may face integration challenges with smart devices. Karakeep is a self-hosted bookmarking solution that syncs across devices, enhancing the ability to save important content efficiently. Donetick is an app for managing chores and personal tasks, allowing automation of task scheduling based on completion dates, though it requires sideloading and lacks HTTP support. Ellis is also exploring other self-hosted services like Jellyfin and Nextcloud, valuing their cross-platform access despite the setup challenges.
AppWizard
September 7, 2025
The Pixel 8 is appreciated as a capable smartphone, but it lacks some features found in the Galaxy S24 FE, particularly in software capabilities. Samsung My Files is favored over Files by Google in a poll, receiving 56% of the votes compared to 18% for Files by Google. My Files excels in connecting to network storage and offers superior search functionality, allowing users to search within documents. It also features a breadcrumb menu for easier navigation. However, Files by Google has advantages such as the Safe Folder feature for securing content, quick access tools, and a more visually appealing interface. Despite the strengths of both stock file managers, the author prefers third-party file management apps for greater control and versatility, with Samsung My Files being the preferred choice if limited to stock options on the Pixel.
Winsage
August 27, 2025
The Windows Task Scheduler is a feature available since Windows 95 that allows users to automate tasks based on specific conditions. Users can create scheduled tasks for various maintenance activities, such as running Disk Cleanup weekly, installing Windows updates at night, conducting security scans with Windows Defender, and backing up files using Robocopy. Automating these tasks helps maintain optimal computer performance and reduces the cognitive load associated with manual maintenance.
Winsage
August 13, 2025
The Backup and Restore (Windows 7) feature is located in the Control Panel under System and Security and can be accessed more conveniently through a desktop shortcut. It uses Microsoft’s VHDX files for imaging, allowing users to mount and browse images in Windows Explorer. The backup configuration defaults to user folders and full system images of internal drives, with options to customize selections. Backups can be saved to an internal hard drive or a network location, but not to directly attached external media like USB drives. Users can include non-user folders by transforming them into user libraries. The tool creates VHDX images, but the restoration process requires a physical disc (CD or DVD) and lacks an option to create an ISO file. Users have reported mixed results with Windows Recovery Drive, with some experiencing failures. Backup and Restore (Windows 7) does not support incremental or differential backups and is limited to a single job configuration. It cannot restore to a smaller capacity drive than the original, and the Recovery Drive is tied to the specific PC it was created on. Due to these limitations, it is recommended to consider alternatives like EaseUS Todo Backup 2025 or Macrium Reflect 8 Free for disaster recovery. However, Backup and Restore (Windows 7) remains suitable for creating VHDX images for browsing and manual recovery within the Windows ecosystem.
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