networking Archives

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

X Rolls Out XChat: New Messaging to Challenge WhatsApp

XChat is an integrated instant messaging feature within X (formerly Twitter) designed to offer various communication options, including voice and video calls, file sharing, image sending, voice messages, and vanishing messages. It is accessible on mobile for both free users and X Premium subscribers, although some advanced features require a subscription. XChat includes encryption, disappearing messages, and the ability to send any file type. Unlike existing direct messages (DMs) on X, XChat offers more advanced features such as unsending messages and group chats. Security is emphasized, with XChat built on Rust and utilizing a "Bitcoin-style encryption system," though it does not guarantee end-to-end encryption. Key features of XChat include disappearing messages, message unsending, group chats, and audio/video calls without the need for a phone number. Currently in beta, XChat aims to enhance connectivity for brands and digital marketers on the platform. The unique advantage of XChat is its integration with X, allowing for a centralized experience combining social media and messaging functionalities.

Winsage

June 18, 2025

Microsoft broke DHCP for Windows Server last Patch Tuesday

Microsoft has acknowledged that the updates released on June 10 during Patch Tuesday may disrupt the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) service on Windows Server versions 2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016. The DHCP Server service might intermittently stop responding after installing this security update, causing issues for network administrators as clients may be unable to renew their IP addresses. There is currently no viable workaround for affected users other than rolling back the patch, which is not ideal due to the critical security fixes included in the update. The impact of this issue varies among users, with some experiencing significant problems while others report no disruptions. Microsoft is working on a resolution and will provide further information soon. Additionally, Microsoft has faced challenges with its Surface Hub v1 devices, requiring an out-of-band update.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

Putin’s WeChat wager Moscow is betting on a super-app strategy to sideline foreign platforms and control digital communications

In late May, a significant amendment was introduced to a draft bill aimed at establishing a government-backed instant messaging platform, endorsed by President Vladimir Putin, which would have unique privileges compared to competitors. The proposed legislation includes features like document certification using electronic signatures and replacing physical identification with the platform's identification, which private enterprises would be required to accept. The platform is intended to function as an alternative to Russia's existing digital government services but will not replace them. The government will select an organization to manage the platform, which may be a private Russian company with over 500,000 users. VK, the company behind Russia's leading social network, is the frontrunner to develop the super-app called "Max," which offers various features and aims to integrate with external services. The Russian government may consider blocking competitors to Max, such as WhatsApp and Telegram, with the latter having a user base of 68 million daily users. President Putin has instructed his cabinet to promote the Russian messaging platform by migrating services from government agencies and financial institutions.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Why I Use simplewall Instead of Windows Firewall (And You Should Too)

Simplewall is a rule-based firewall controller for Windows that enhances the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) without replacing it. It allows users to manage network access for applications and services with a user-friendly interface, supporting advanced features like filtering rules by IP, port, or protocol. Users can create tailored profiles for different scenarios and have comprehensive control over network interactions, including blocking telemetry data and automatic updates. Simplewall is lightweight, portable, and operates without background processes or telemetry, ensuring a straightforward user experience. Setting up simplewall involves downloading it, extracting the files, and enabling filters, allowing users to establish a functional firewall profile quickly. While it offers many advantages, such as being open-source and compatible with older Windows versions, it may be overwhelming for beginners and lacks detailed app profiling compared to premium firewalls.

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

WhatsApp and iMessage competitor: Elon Musk announces new Vchat messenger

Elon Musk has introduced XChat, a secure messaging service aimed at transforming X (formerly Twitter) into a comprehensive communication platform. XChat focuses on privacy, file sharing, and cross-platform calling, competing with established messaging services like WhatsApp and Telegram. It is developed using Rust and features Bitcoin-style encryption and end-to-end encryption to ensure message confidentiality. Currently in beta testing, XChat will be rolled out to more users soon, although no official launch date has been set. This service is part of Musk's vision to create a "super app" that combines social networking, digital payments, media sharing, and private communication, similar to WeChat. Analysts believe XChat could significantly influence the development of Web3 applications and challenge traditional messaging platforms to innovate in security and functionality.

Winsage

May 31, 2025

Windows 11 Pro Is Going for Pennies on the Dollar, a 92% Price Drop Makes It Almost Free

Windows 11 Pro offers enhanced networking and security features compared to Windows 11 Home. A lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro is currently available at a discounted price on StackSocial. It includes tools like snap layouts, virtual desktops, improved voice typing, and the AI assistant Copilot, which aids in navigation and productivity. Windows 11 Pro also features essential Microsoft applications, advanced security measures, and enhancements for gaming with DirectX 12 Ultimate.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

The Windows File Explorer is still so bad when it comes to networked drives

File Explorer in Windows 11 has usability issues, particularly with sluggish search functionality and problems accessing networked drives. Users often experience drives disappearing after reboot, inaccessibility to files, and freezing of File Explorer, with error codes like c0000375 indicating deeper issues. The networked drive feature relies on outdated technology, as Microsoft has deprecated older protocols like SMBv1, complicating file sharing. Users can mitigate freezing by restarting File Explorer and ensuring network settings are correctly configured, such as setting Wi-Fi to private and enabling file sharing options. Excessive pinned items in Quick Access can cause crashes, and clearing the cache may resolve these issues. Alternatives to File Explorer, like XYplorer and File Pilot, can provide better access to networked drives. Overall, the challenges stem from outdated technology and the corruption of the Quick Access cache, with third-party solutions available for relief.

Winsage

May 21, 2025

Microsoft finally open-sources (most of) Windows Subsystem for Linux

Microsoft has open-sourced its Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) code, announced during the Build 2025 developer conference. WSL allows users to run Linux distributions natively on Windows, facilitating integration between Linux tools and the Windows environment. Since its introduction in 2016, WSL has become essential for developers needing Linux utilities without leaving Windows. As of the 2024 StackOverflow developer survey, 16.8% of programmers use WSL, surpassing traditional Linux distributions. The initial version, WSL 1, had performance limitations, but WSL 2 introduced a full Linux kernel in a lightweight virtual machine, improving compatibility and performance. The majority of WSL's codebase is now available on GitHub under the MIT License, including key command-line tools and Linux-side daemons. Some components remain closed source, but the move reflects a significant shift in Microsoft's open-source collaboration approach. Users can access various Linux distributions on WSL, including Fedora, Debian, openSUSE, and Ubuntu.

Winsage

May 20, 2025

Microsoft makes the Windows Subsystem for Linux open source after almost a decade of development

Microsoft has announced that the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is now open source, marking a significant milestone in its development. The company has closed issue #1 on its GitHub issue tracker, which asked if WSL would be open source since April 6, 2016. WSL allows Windows users to run Linux distributions alongside their operating system and has evolved from WSL 1, which used a pico process provider, to WSL 2, which introduced a dedicated Linux kernel and various enhancements such as GPU support, graphical applications, and systemd support. In 2021, WSL was decoupled from the Windows codebase and made available via the Microsoft Store for Windows 11 users. Future updates will further refine the installation process for Linux distributions.

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

What’s driving growth in the Chinese video game industry?

The Chinese game industry has experienced significant growth, with popular titles like Genshin Impact and Black Myth: Wukong driving global interest. Black Myth: Wukong sold 10 million copies within a week of its August 2024 launch and won Game of the Year at the 2024 Steam Awards. The single-player game market in China is becoming more sustainable, with a shift in focus due to the success of titles like Black Myth: Wukong. Developers are adapting their strategies, although challenges such as high production costs, competition, and issues related to work culture persist. Local governments are actively supporting game development through licensing, tax breaks, and grants, with initiatives aimed at integrating cultural themes into games. Despite layoffs in the industry, a robust social safety net exists to support affected employees.