operating system Archives

Winsage

September 13, 2026

4 classic Windows tools that did things Windows 11 still can’t

Several utilities have been left out of Windows 11, including: - Windows Easy Transfer: A tool that allowed users to transfer files and settings between PCs using a USB flash drive. It was not included in Windows 10 and remains absent in Windows 11. - Windows Media Center: An application that transformed PCs into media hubs for watching movies, listening to music, and recording television shows. It did not transition to Windows 10 and is also missing in Windows 11. - Taskbar Toolbars: A feature that enabled users to pin folders to the taskbar for quick access. This feature is not present in Windows 11. - Steps Recorder: A troubleshooting tool that recorded screen actions and documented steps taken during processes. Although initially available in Windows 11, it has been deprecated. These omissions have disappointed users who valued the functionality these tools provided.

Tech Optimizer

September 13, 2026

Top 10 Best Endpoint Encryption Software in 2026

The landscape of encryption engines has stabilized, with Microsoft BitLocker and Apple FileVault being the primary solutions. As of 2026, the emphasis is on management rather than just acquiring encryption technology. Key management elements include audit proofing, key escrow and recovery, policy enforcement, and pre-boot options. Native encryption solutions lack features such as fleet-wide compliance proof, centralized key escrow, consistent policy enforcement, advanced pre-boot authentication, and removable-media encryption. Various management models are available for different environments, including: 1. Microsoft BitLocker with Intune: Free for Windows Pro/Enterprise, integrates with Entra ID for key management. 2. Sophos: Manages both BitLocker and FileVault from a single console. 3. ESET: Offers lightweight management and removable-media protection. 4. Trend Micro: Integrates encryption with DLP capabilities. 5. Check Point: Provides advanced pre-boot options and policy management. 6. Trellix: Comprehensive enterprise encryption suite with a complex management interface. 7. WinMagic: Focuses on cross-platform encryption and strong pre-boot options. 8. Broadcom (Symantec): Manages native engines within its broader security framework. 9. Dell: OEM-integrated encryption management for Dell hardware. 10. Kaspersky: Provides encryption management but is restricted in the U.S. Key considerations before deploying encryption include ensuring key escrow is in place, conducting recovery tests, and being mindful of removable media and server encryption. Common mistakes include using outdated freeware and not verifying key escrow. Organizations should request auditor reports for compliance verification and confirm claims of compatibility and pre-boot functionality. Native encryption engines are free, while management layers typically charge on a per-endpoint basis.

Winsage

September 13, 2026

Microsoft is finally tackling Windows 11’s annoying Bluetooth problem

Microsoft has released updates to enhance Bluetooth functionality in Windows 11, specifically in the Insider Release Preview Build 26100.9539/26200.9539 for versions 24H2 and 25H2. Key improvements include: - Improved connection stability to minimize disruptions. - Enhanced device compatibility for a broader range of devices. - A streamlined pairing process for quicker and more intuitive connections. - Bug fixes addressing previous performance issues.

Winsage

September 13, 2026

Microsoft reveals why 32-bit Windows was limited to 4GB RAM, and it wasn’t a technical limit

32-bit Windows is commonly thought to be limited to 4GB of RAM due to its 32-bit address space, but this overlooks the role of Physical Address Extension (PAE), which allows access to more than 4GB of RAM on compatible processors. PAE enables 32-bit x86 processors to use 36-bit physical addresses. Windows allocates a 4GB virtual address space to each 32-bit application, with 2GB reserved for the application and 2GB for system use. Windows Server 2003 SP1 Enterprise can support up to 64GB of RAM, while the Datacenter edition can handle 128GB. Microsoft did not extend this capability to consumer editions due to the complexities and potential issues with hardware drivers, which often assume a 32-bit framework. Modifying drivers for PAE can be challenging, as incorrect assumptions about physical and virtual addresses can lead to memory corruption. To mitigate risks, Microsoft capped physical address space at 4GB in Windows XP SP2 and Windows Server 2003 SP1 Standard Edition. Server environments typically have more controlled hardware selections, allowing for the use of drivers that are tested for compatibility with addresses exceeding 4GB. Microsoft began discouraging the production of 32-bit systems in 2020 and ended 32-bit edition production with Windows 11.

Winsage

September 12, 2026

Microsoft warns that killing VBScript could break Windows activation for businesses

Microsoft is phasing out VBScript and urging organizations to transition to PowerShell. The Slmgr.vbs tool, used for managing Windows activation, will lose functionality as VBScript is deprecated. Slmgr.vbs allows users to install product keys, activate Windows, and check licensing status. VBScript will soon only be available as a Feature on Demand, requiring manual installation in future updates. PowerShell's OSLicense module offers similar capabilities to Slmgr.vbs for managing activation information. The OSLicense module is available for Windows 11 users after the August 2026 Preview update and will be supported in the next major release of Windows Server. Organizations are advised to review their existing scripts and tools to adapt to this transition.

Winsage

September 12, 2026

Your Windows 11 PC Can Now Reinstall Windows From the Cloud

Microsoft introduced a feature called Cloud Rebuild with the release of Build 26220.9343 to the Beta channel on September 8, 2026. This tool allows users to download a fresh installation of Windows 11 from the internet, restoring the operating system and its drivers without needing removable media. The recovery process is conducted through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), and users can access it by booting into WinRE or through Settings. For Cloud Rebuild to work, a healthy WinRE, internet access, a compatible networking driver, and local administrator credentials are required. The feature also enables the storage of Wi-Fi profiles in WinRE, allowing wireless-only setups to utilize cloud recovery. Cloud Rebuild is compatible with enterprise management tools like Intune and Windows Autopilot, but it is currently only available to Beta channel Insider participants for non-production evaluation.

Tech Optimizer

September 11, 2026

12-Year-Old PostgreSQL Flaw Lets Attackers Execute Code on Database Servers

A PostgreSQL vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-6471, known as PostGREShell, allows attackers with minimal replication access to execute arbitrary code on database servers. This flaw has existed for approximately 12 years and affects non-superuser PostgreSQL accounts with the REPLICATION attribute, commonly used for backup and replication tasks. The vulnerability arises from inadequate restrictions on the library path specified as an output plugin name, enabling an attacker to exploit the logical decoding feature to load a malicious library. Exploitation requires only a PostgreSQL account with REPLICATION privileges, wal_level set to logical, and access to SMB port 445. The flaw was discovered by Cyera Research and dates back to PostgreSQL 9.4's release in 2014. Patches have been released for versions 18.6, 17.11, 16.15, 15.19, and 14.24, and organizations are advised to upgrade to these versions. Database administrators should audit accounts with the REPLICATION attribute and restrict replication connections. Limiting outbound network access and monitoring logical replication activity is also recommended to mitigate risks.

Tech Optimizer

September 11, 2026

Improving Lakebase Postgres compute cache

Lakebase Postgres employs a disaggregated storage model that enhances data management through efficient caching, utilizing an object store like S3 for backups. The caching operates on two layers: within distributed storage for optimizing write and read performance, and on the Postgres compute side for ultra-fast access to frequently accessed pages. Traditional Postgres caching involves shared buffers and the OS page cache, which leads to double buffering and inefficiencies. Lakebase Postgres addresses these issues by implementing a local file cache (LFC) and larger shared buffers, allowing for more effective memory utilization without the drawbacks of the OS page cache. The shared buffers are set to a maximum of 1 GB, while the LFC can utilize up to 75% of DRAM. The introduction of huge pages reduces memory management overhead and improves performance, resulting in significant throughput increases and reduced latency in production environments. Recent enhancements have shown up to 2× throughput improvements and substantial reductions in CPU usage. The focus is now on extending these benefits to autoscaling Postgres computes, with plans to implement dynamic shared buffers and autoscaling huge pages.

Winsage

September 11, 2026

Microsoft acknowledges Bluetooth on Windows 11 is a hot mess, begins testing nine major fixes

Microsoft has released update 26200.9539 for Windows 11, aimed at improving Bluetooth functionality with up to nine significant fixes. This update enhances the calling experience for Bluetooth headset users during virtual meetings by providing a built-in volume flyout when adjusting volume. It also improves the stability of the Bluetooth & devices page in Settings and addresses microphone compatibility issues for certain Bluetooth Classic Audio accessories. Users with newer Bluetooth headsets featuring LE Audio can expect faster connections, more stable performance, and enhanced audio calling quality. Microsoft is collaborating with OEMs to improve driver quality through the Driver Quality Initiative (DQI), which focuses on enhancing driver trustworthiness, phasing out low-quality drivers, and improving the security and reliability of updates. The initiative aims to strengthen kernel-mode drivers and reduce reliance on third-party driver code, while also streamlining Windows Update to reject outdated or problematic drivers. Further details on these enhancements are expected later this year.

Tech Optimizer

September 11, 2026

Top 10 Best Endpoint Encryption Software in 2026

Microsoft BitLocker and Apple FileVault are free, integrated encryption solutions within their respective operating systems. As of 2026, the focus is on investing in management solutions that provide compliance proof, key escrow, recovery options, and policy enforcement across devices. Native encryption solutions lack certain management features, prompting the need for additional management layers from various vendors. Legacy freeware like TrueCrypt is no longer maintained, posing risks for business use, while VeraCrypt is a credible open-source alternative but lacks centralized management. Management options include Microsoft Intune for Windows, Sophos for mixed fleets, and specialized providers like Check Point and WinMagic for advanced needs. Organizations should ensure proper key management before enforcing encryption to avoid data loss and regularly test recovery processes. It is crucial to verify claims regarding compatibility and pre-boot options when selecting encryption solutions. Native engines are free, but management layers typically charge per endpoint annually.