operations Archives

Winsage

May 2, 2025

6 PowerToys tools that quietly make my day ten times easier on Windows

Microsoft's PowerToys suite includes several productivity-enhancing tools for Windows 11 users: - Keyboard Manager: Allows users to create custom shortcuts and swap keyboard layouts, such as changing the positions of the Y and Z keys on a QWERTZ layout. - Quick Accent: Simplifies typing accented characters by providing a flyout menu for selecting accents when holding down a letter and pressing Space. - New+: Introduces a template folder for storing frequently used documents, enabling quick generation of new files. - Workspaces: Lets users save and launch a specific layout of applications simultaneously, streamlining workflow. - PowerToys Run/Command Palette: Provides quick access to applications and commands through keyboard shortcuts, allowing for instant launching and execution of commands. - FancyZones: Enhances window management by allowing users to create custom layouts for snapping applications into designated zones on their screens.

AppWizard

May 2, 2025

Oblivion’s one-room waterfront shack is the perfect player home

The ideal player home in video games is characterized by a single room to avoid loading screens, the ability to customize the space, and proximity to a fast travel point. The Dzonot Cave bandit dungeon offers a strategic fast travel point near the Imperial City’s waterfront shack, which costs 2,000 gold septims and is practical for thieves. The waterfront shack, despite its minimal furnishings, provides convenience and allows players to focus on leveling up and completing quests without external judgment. Alternatives like Benirus Manor come with complications such as interior loading screens and lack of fast travel. The waterfront shack has been upgraded with essential storage containers, reinforcing its status as the ultimate player home, especially for players seeking a reliable base for adventure.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

Microsoft is pulling the plug on Windows 10 — here’s what you need to do

A limited-time offer allows users to purchase a Windows 11 Pro key for .97, down from its regular price of 9. This promotion enables upgrades for two compatible PCs. Windows 11 Pro features a user-friendly installation process, a lifetime license with no ongoing fees, productivity enhancements like snap layouts and virtual desktops, and robust security measures including biometric login and device encryption. It also includes an AI-powered assistant, Copilot, to help optimize workflows. Support for Windows 10 will end soon, making this an opportune time to upgrade. Prices on StackSocial may change.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

Secure your organization against changing conditions with a special offer from Windows 365

82% of business leaders view 2023 as critical for reevaluating strategic and operational frameworks. Windows 10 support will end in October 2025, prompting organizations to consider strategies for transitioning to Windows 11 or Windows 365. Microsoft is offering a 20% discount on all Windows 365 plans for new customers from May 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025. Windows 365 provides a secure Windows 11 experience via a Cloud PC and is designed with Zero Trust principles for enhanced security. Transitioning to Windows 365 can lower carbon footprints and align with sustainability goals. Crocs reported annual cost savings of 0,000 after switching to Windows 365. Dnata Travel Group chose Windows 365 for secure access for their mobile workforce. Hamburg Commercial Bank plans to expand its use of Windows 365 for sustainability improvements. The promotional offer is available for new customers and has specific terms and conditions, including a deadline for processing transactions.

Winsage

April 30, 2025

5 alternatives to the Windows Task Manager that you should be using

Windows Task Manager has been enhanced in Windows 11, featuring a streamlined interface and improved functionality. Alternatives to Task Manager include: - System Informer: A free, open-source tool that monitors system resources with real-time performance graphs and detailed process information. It displays CPU, memory, and disk usage, tracks file access, and offers advanced features like call stack traces. - System Explorer: Integrates system monitoring with security features, providing a clean interface for exploring processes, modules, and network connections. It includes a built-in file database and VirusTotal integration for security assessments. - Process Lasso: Extends Task Manager capabilities by allowing users to adjust CPU priority and core affinities. Features include ProBalance for automatic CPU adjustments, performance mode for optimizing CPU usage, IdleSaver for power management, and SmartTrim for memory optimization. - Process Explorer: A Sysinternals tool that offers a detailed view of running processes in a hierarchical tree format, showing user, PID, and resource usage. It includes a search capability for identifying resource usage and integrates with VirusTotal for security checks. - Task Manager DeLuxe (TMX): A portable task management tool that consolidates system stats across multiple tabs, providing quick access to CPU and memory usage, along with graphical representations of network and disk activity. It allows filtering and searching for processes and can be run from a USB drive.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

American Oversight v. DOGE, Musk, Davis, Gleason, and Rubio — Use of Signal Messaging App and Google Docs to Circumvent Federal Records Laws

American Oversight has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), and several individuals, including Elon Musk, Marco Rubio, Amy Gleason, and Steve Davis. The lawsuit alleges violations of the Federal Records Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) due to the use of the Signal messenger app and Google Docs, which purportedly compromised public records and transparency in government operations.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

PostgreSQL 18: Part 4, or CommitFest 2025-01

PostgreSQL 18 includes significant enhancements in monitoring capabilities and new features. Key updates include: - Buffer information in EXPLAIN ANALYZE is now enabled by default, providing detailed buffer statistics for better query performance insights. - The pg_stat_io view tracks I/O statistics in bytes (read_bytes, write_bytes, extend_bytes), simplifying monitoring of I/O operations. - Enhanced monitoring of Write-Ahead Logging (WAL) statistics is introduced, allowing tracking of WAL operations and new WAL segment initialization. - The pg_stat_get_backend_io function provides I/O statistics for specific client processes, aiding in performance tuning. - The VACUUM (verbose) command now includes visibility map information, detailing all-visible pages after a vacuum operation. - The pg_stat_all_table view tracks total vacuum and analysis times per table, and users can adjust autovacuum workers without server restarts. - A new uuidv7 function generates UUIDs with a Unix-epoch timestamp for ordered identifiers. - The passwordcheck extension enforces a minimum password length for better security practices. - Improvements to the jsonb type ensure correct handling of null conversions. - The casefold function facilitates case-insensitive searches. - The RETURNING clause in DML commands now supports returning both old and new values. - The to_number function can convert Roman numerals to numeric values.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

5 Free Antivirus Programs To Eliminate Malware and Viruses (2025)

Users are increasingly seeking effective malware protection without the cost of premium software, leading to the emergence of free antivirus programs that offer robust security features. This trend is particularly beneficial for Windows 11 users who want real-time protection while staying within budget. Several leading cybersecurity firms provide free antivirus solutions equipped with advanced features such as real-time scanning, phishing defenses, cloud-based malware detection, and system optimization tools. These free programs can adequately protect a diverse audience, including gamers, remote workers, students, and casual users. Top free antivirus programs for Windows 11 in 2025 include: 1. Bitdefender Antivirus Free: Utilizes the same malware engine as its paid version, offers real-time detection, anti-phishing protection, and is ultra-light on system resources. 2. Microsoft Defender Antivirus: Integrated into Windows 11, provides cloud-delivered protection and built-in ransomware mitigation without ads. 3. Avast Free Antivirus: Offers additional tools like network scanning and a Do Not Disturb mode for gaming. 4. AVG AntiVirus Free: Features a simpler interface, link and attachment protection, and fewer pop-ups. 5. TotalAV Free Antivirus: A newer option with a clean interface, real-time protection, and a junk file cleaner. Key factors to consider when selecting free antivirus software include real-time protection, low resource usage, minimal intrusion, and extra security tools. While free solutions are suitable for most users, premium protection may be necessary for small businesses or those handling sensitive data. For gamers, Bitdefender and Avast are recommended for their low system impact and gaming modes. For remote workers, Microsoft Defender and TotalAV are highlighted for their ease of use and integrated protections. Essential features of effective antivirus programs include robust virus protection, real-time scanning, and a behavior shield to detect new threats. Performance should not significantly slow down the system, and the interface should be user-friendly. Experts recommend Windows Defender for basic protection, with AVG and Avast receiving endorsements for their feature balance, while Bitdefender Free is noted for its detection rates and minimal system impact. Free antivirus programs may lack advanced features and technical support compared to paid versions.

Winsage

April 28, 2025

Microsoft to Launch Paid Hotpatching for Windows Server 2025

Microsoft will launch a subscription-based hotpatching service for Windows Server 2025 on July 1, 2025, priced at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Microsoft is set to transform the landscape of enterprise updates with the upcoming launch of its subscription-based hotpatching service for Windows Server 2025. This innovative approach marks a significant shift in how updates will be managed for businesses operating Windows Server outside of Azure. Beginning July 1, 2025, hotpatching will transition from a complimentary preview to a paid subscription model, priced at .50 per CPU core per month. This change extends a capability that was previously exclusive to Azure users, now making it accessible for on-premises servers and hybrid environments through Azure Arc integration. What Is Hotpatching? Hotpatching is a cutting-edge technology that enables the installation of security and critical updates without necessitating a system reboot. Instead of interrupting services or rebooting servers, hotpatching directly updates the in-memory code of running processes. This advancement brings Windows server deployments in line with similar technologies that Linux administrators have enjoyed for years, such as kpatch and ksplice. By allowing updates without reboots, organizations can significantly reduce disruptions while enhancing their security posture. How Does Hotpatching Work? The hotpatching mechanism follows a structured update cycle: Baseline months: In January, April, July, and October, a full cumulative update will be released, requiring a reboot to establish a new baseline. Hotpatch months: In the two months following each baseline month, critical patches will be deployed via hotpatches without requiring any server reboots. This means that servers will only need to reboot approximately four times a year, rather than monthly. On rare occasions, Microsoft may issue a critical security update that requires a reboot even during a hotpatch month, but the aim remains clear: to provide up to eight rebootless hotpatches annually. Why Is Microsoft Moving to a Paid Model? While hotpatching was available at no additional cost during its preview phase, Microsoft is now positioning it as a premium feature for customers seeking maximum uptime, operational simplicity, and rapid security response. According to the Windows Server team at Microsoft, the value of hotpatching encompasses: Reduced Downtime: Maintain operations without the need for scheduling late-night or weekend reboot windows. Faster Updates: Smaller patches facilitate quicker deployments. Enhanced Security: Address vulnerabilities swiftly without delays associated with reboot coordination. Operational Efficiency: Streamlined change management and patch orchestration. Internal teams at Microsoft, including the Xbox division, have already experienced notable efficiency improvements with hotpatching, completing tasks that previously took weeks in just days. Subscription Details Feature Details Launch Date July 1, 2025 Price .50 USD per CPU core per month Editions Supported Windows Server 2025 Standard and Datacenter Deployment Requirement Must be connected to Azure Arc Included with Azure Editions Datacenter: Azure Edition (no extra charge) Patch Frequency 8 hotpatches/year + 4 reboot-required baseline patches Organizations currently utilizing the free preview must either opt out before June 30, 2025, or they will be automatically transitioned into the paid subscription starting in July. While hotpatching offers powerful capabilities, it does not entirely eliminate the need for traditional updates. Certain updates will still necessitate a reboot, including: Major non-security updates. .NET Framework patches. Driver and firmware updates. Emergency out-of-band security patches. As such, administrators should still anticipate occasional downtime, albeit significantly reduced. By incorporating hotpatching into their update strategies, organizations can bolster system availability and streamline their maintenance processes." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 per CPU core per month. Hotpatching allows security and critical updates to be installed without rebooting the system, reducing downtime and enhancing security. The update cycle includes four baseline months requiring reboots and eight hotpatches annually without reboots. The service is available for Windows Server 2025 Standard and Datacenter editions and requires connection to Azure Arc. Organizations using the free preview must opt out by June 30, 2025, or will be transitioned to the paid model. Certain updates, such as major non-security updates and .NET Framework patches, will still require reboots.

Winsage

April 28, 2025

Microsoft makes hot patching a paid feature for Windows Server 2025

Hotpatching in Windows Server 2025 allows system administrators to apply security updates without rebooting, enhancing response times to vulnerabilities. Microsoft will introduce a subscription model for this feature starting July 1, 2024, at an initial rate of [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Hotpatching emerges as a significant advancement in the realm of Windows Server 2025, allowing system administrators to implement security updates without the need for system reboots. This capability enhances the speed at which organizations can respond to vulnerabilities, aligning with the growing demand for agile IT operations. However, Microsoft has decided to place this feature behind a paywall, introducing a subscription model that will take effect from July 1, 2024, at an initial rate of .50 per core per month. Notably, users operating on Azure will be exempt from this charge, providing a clear incentive for cloud-based deployments. Previously available in Azure Hotpatching is not an entirely new concept; it has been successfully utilized in various environments, including the Linux kernel, VMware products, and the Xen hypervisor. Microsoft has previously offered hot patching capabilities for Windows Server: Azure Edition and version 2022 within the Azure cloud ecosystem. In August 2024, the company unveiled a preview of hot patching for Windows Server 2025 in Azure, followed by an additional preview for deployments managed through the Arc hybrid and multicloud management system in September. This latest preview marks a pivotal moment, as it introduces hot patching for Windows Server 2025 Standard and Datacenter Edition, enabling on-premises applications of this technology for the first time. Microsoft has characterized this feature as a “game changer,” highlighting its potential to redefine patch management for enterprises. Subscription model and patching cycle Under the new subscription model, Microsoft anticipates releasing eight hot patches annually. However, it is important to note that there may be instances where a restart is still required for security purposes. As the transition to the paid version approaches, users currently in the preview phase will be automatically migrated unless they opt out by June 30, 2024. This move has drawn parallels to Microsoft's previous strategies regarding detailed logs, which have sparked concern among security experts. Critics argue that by monetizing essential security features, Microsoft risks compromising the overall security posture for users who may not opt for these additional services. While hotpatching was initially heralded as a cornerstone innovation for Windows Server 2025, its placement behind a paywall raises questions about the balance between enhanced security and cost considerations for organizations. Read also: Windows Server 2025 updates cause problems" max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 per core per month, with Azure users exempt from this charge. Hotpatching has been previously available in Azure and is now being introduced for on-premises applications in Windows Server 2025 Standard and Datacenter Edition. Microsoft plans to release eight hot patches annually, although some may still require a restart. Users in the preview phase will be automatically migrated to the paid version unless they opt out by June 30, 2024. Critics express concern that monetizing essential security features may compromise overall security for users who do not subscribe.