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Spiceworks Community Digest: Subscription Windows
Winsage
December 4, 2025

Spiceworks Community Digest: Subscription Windows

Microsoft is considering transitioning advanced Windows features from a one-time purchase to a subscription-based model, with discussions suggesting that the conventional "Pro" edition may be replaced by a monthly subscription service, potentially branded as Microsoft 365 Pro. Currently, Windows 11 Business and Windows 365 Business are already offered as subscriptions. The Spiceworks community has expressed concerns about rising costs and the potential impact on small businesses and individual consumers. The prevailing sentiment is that the shift to a subscription model is likely, but its success will depend on perceived value compared to free alternatives.
Cyber security essentials with WSA partner PureCyber 
Tech Optimizer
December 4, 2025

Cyber security essentials with WSA partner PureCyber 

Cyber security is crucial for organizations in the sport and leisure sector to protect digital assets from hackers and cybercriminals. Neglecting cyber security can lead to financial losses, reputational damage, operational disruptions, and legal issues. Key practices for enhancing cyber security include keeping software updated, using strong passwords, training employees, and employing firewalls and antivirus solutions. The Welsh Sports Association (WSA) has partnered with PureCyber to offer a subscription service called Foundations, which provides various cyber security benefits such as incident response, phishing simulations, endpoint detection and response, dark web monitoring, employee training, Microsoft 365 protection, and vulnerability management. WSA members can access this service at preferential rates, and a Lunchtime Learning session will be held to improve skills within member organizations. Interested parties can contact Maria Lopez for more information on the subscription.
Save Up to $30 Off Humble Choice for Cyber Monday
AppWizard
December 2, 2025

Save Up to $30 Off Humble Choice for Cyber Monday

Humble is offering a limited-time discount on Humble Choice memberships in celebration of Cyber Monday, ending today. The monthly plan can be purchased for .50 with the promo code CYBER25, while the annual plan is available for .99 using the code HOLIDAY25IGN. November's game offerings include titles such as Total War Warhammer III, Another Crab's Treasure, Pharaoh: A New Era, Etrian Odyssey HD, No More Heroes 3, Synergy, Spin Hero, and Paleo Pines. Members also receive up to 20% off purchases from the Humble Store and contribute 5% of their subscription fee to charity.
As Windows 11 turns into an AI OS, Microsoft Copilot boss does not understand how AI is underwhelming
Winsage
December 1, 2025

As Windows 11 turns into an AI OS, Microsoft Copilot boss does not understand how AI is underwhelming

Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft's AI CEO, noted user frustration with the aggressive integration of AI into Windows 11, despite the company's efforts to enhance user experience with features like Copilot, which operates on models similar to ChatGPT. Windows 11 includes various AI functionalities, such as Copilot Voice and Copilot Vision, and aims to transform the OS into an "agentic OS" with features like Copilot Actions in Microsoft Edge. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with AI being present in applications like Notepad and File Explorer, perceiving it as intrusive rather than beneficial. Microsoft 365 applications have also integrated Copilot functionalities, but concerns about safety and privacy persist. User feedback indicates a desire for more thoughtful AI integration, as many feel that AI is being applied to problems that do not exist, leading to stress and uncertainty regarding the operating system's control.
Netflix consolidates relational database infrastructure on Amazon Aurora, achieving up to 75% improved performance
Tech Optimizer
November 30, 2025

Netflix consolidates relational database infrastructure on Amazon Aurora, achieving up to 75% improved performance

Netflix operates a global streaming service using a distributed microservices architecture, with the Online Data Stores (ODS) team managing persistent data store solutions. The ODS team aims to enhance developer productivity and operational efficiency but faced challenges due to a fragmented relational database strategy involving multiple PostgreSQL-compatible engines, leading to operational inefficiencies and increased overhead for both infrastructure and application teams. To address these challenges, Netflix evaluated database solutions based on criteria focused on developer productivity, operational efficiency, performance reliability, and scalability. After thorough evaluation, Netflix selected Aurora PostgreSQL as the preferred database solution for relational workloads. Key reasons for choosing Aurora include its ability to handle single-Region and multi-Region workloads effectively, employing asynchronous storage-based replication for low-latency operations. Aurora's log-based write operations and shared storage architecture provide higher write throughput and lower latency. As a fully managed service, Aurora eliminates the manual operational overhead associated with self-managed databases, allowing developers to leverage existing PostgreSQL expertise with minimal code changes. Post-migration results for applications like Front50 and the Policy Engine showed significant improvements in latency and stability. Front50 experienced a 50% reduction in average latency and a 70% reduction in maximum latency. The Policy Engine noted overall latency improvements across all endpoints, with specific reductions in key functions, enhancing responsiveness and operational efficiency.
3 Samsung apps I wish other brands would copy
AppWizard
November 30, 2025

3 Samsung apps I wish other brands would copy

A user has developed a renewed appreciation for Samsung's software, particularly One UI 8, highlighting three pre-installed apps for their functionality and user-friendliness: 1. Clock: The Samsung Clock app allows a snooze interval of up to 60 minutes, adjustable even after the alarm has sounded, and offers unlimited snoozes, catering to users with chronic pain or fatigue. 2. Reminder: The Reminder app features an updated interface that simplifies setting location-based reminders and offers various templates, making it more user-friendly compared to competing apps. 3. Modes and Routines: This app enables users to create automations based on existing device data, such as weather-based notifications, and provides customizable templates for routines. Additionally, the Now Brief feature serves as a central hub for daily information but has room for improvement.
Finally, be a true professional with the full Microsoft suite for just $35
Winsage
November 29, 2025

Finally, be a true professional with the full Microsoft suite for just $35

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is available for .97, reduced from its suggested retail price of 9.99. The software suite includes Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Access, Publisher, and OneNote. It offers a lifetime license, ensuring no expiration dates. The discount represents an 84% reduction from the MSRP.
WhatsApp Blocked in Russia: Messaging App Faces Crackdown
AppWizard
November 29, 2025

WhatsApp Blocked in Russia: Messaging App Faces Crackdown

Roskomnadzor, Russia's communications regulator, plans to impose stricter restrictions on WhatsApp due to allegations of its use in activities that violate Russian law, such as organizing terrorist acts and fraud. WhatsApp has not met compliance standards, leading to extended limitations and the possibility of a complete ban if violations continue. Users have experienced a decline in call quality since August, prompting a recommendation to switch to domestic messaging apps. Andrey Svintsov, a deputy chairman in the State Duma, anticipates a potential shutdown of WhatsApp in Russia within four to six months, attributing restrictions to the app's owners' unwillingness to cooperate with Russian authorities and concerns over data security.
Virus Alert: 4 Warning Signs on Your Laptop You Must Not Ignore
Tech Optimizer
November 29, 2025

Virus Alert: 4 Warning Signs on Your Laptop You Must Not Ignore

Laptops are at risk of viruses due to internet connectivity and USB drives. Signs of potential virus infection include: 1. Sudden Slowdown: A laptop that slows down unexpectedly may have a virus consuming resources. Action: Conduct a full antivirus scan. 2. Unexplained Pop-Ups: Frequent pop-ups or ads may indicate malware. Action: Install a malware removal tool and enable pop-up blocking. 3. Programs Opening or Closing Automatically: Applications launching or shutting down without command could signal a remote access trojan. Action: Disconnect from the internet and run antivirus scans. 4. Strange Hard Drive or Network Activity: Excessive disk or network activity while idle may suggest hidden malware. Action: Monitor task manager for suspicious processes. Preventive measures include keeping antivirus software updated, avoiding unknown USB drives, regularly updating the operating system, and backing up important files.
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