performance degradation Archives

Winsage

May 2, 2025

Alarming update: Windows 11 may deprive users of all data

In the recent Windows 11 24H2 update, the bypassnro.cmd script was removed, leading to the automatic activation of BitLocker disk encryption for both corporate and home users. This change has raised concerns about data security, performance degradation, and the risk of irreversible data loss, particularly due to the lack of user notifications when BitLocker is activated. Users are advised to back up their encryption keys to prevent permanent loss of access to files. Microsoft has provided a guide for backing up and recovering BitLocker keys, and users can manually disable BitLocker through the registry or settings. Additionally, Huawei is considering moving away from Windows to its proprietary operating system.

Winsage

April 21, 2025

I ran Windows 11 inside a Docker container… on my Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi series has evolved into versatile systems, but running Windows has been challenging for enthusiasts. A recent project explored running Windows 11 on the Raspberry Pi 5 using Runtipi, a platform for deploying containers. This method allows Windows 11 to run in a container using KVM technology. The installation process took about 38-43 minutes, resulting in a Windows 11 desktop with limited performance, including a capped display resolution of 800x600. Geekbench 6 tests showed single-core performance similar to Raspberry Pi OS, but multi-core performance was lower. Running PC games resulted in long load times and resolution issues, making the experience unsatisfactory. The containerized approach simplifies the installation process compared to traditional methods, making it a viable option for running lightweight applications on the Raspberry Pi.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

Windows 10 Approaches Its End of Life: What You Need to Know

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025, meaning it will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. Users will be left vulnerable to malware and other cyber threats, and existing system issues will remain unresolved. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11, which offers new features, improved performance, and enhanced security. Users can upgrade to Windows 11 through Windows Update if their devices meet the system requirements. If not, they may need to consider new hardware. While Windows 10 will still receive security updates until the end of support date, it will not receive new features, prompting users to plan their migration to avoid security risks. It is advised to back up important data before transitioning to ensure a smooth upgrade process.

Winsage

February 16, 2025

Windows 11 KB5051987 breaks File Explorer, install fails on Windows 11 24H2

The release of Windows 11 KB5051987 in February 2025 has led to installation challenges and functionality issues for users. Some users report installation stalls at 96% and error messages indicating missing update files. File Explorer has been disrupted, preventing access to folders like Desktop and Documents, although it remains active in the background. Camera functionality has been compromised, with many users unable to detect their cameras, and performance issues such as mouse stuttering and typing lag have been reported. Users experiencing these problems are advised to uninstall the update and reboot their systems. Additional issues include problems with apps in Windows Sandbox, performance drops in gaming, glitches in the taskbar, and isolated cases of users being unable to boot into Windows post-update.

Tech Optimizer

November 19, 2024

Scaling Your Startup’s Data Infrastructure with PostgreSQL

Robust data infrastructure is essential for startup development as data requirements grow. PostgreSQL is a leading open-source relational database known for its scalability and comprehensive features. A Timescale survey indicates that 51.2% of users increased their PostgreSQL usage in the past year. PostgreSQL employs a multi-version concurrency control (MVCC) system and write-ahead logging (WAL) for data integrity and recovery. Vertical scaling enhances hardware capabilities, while horizontal scaling distributes loads across multiple servers through replication, partitioning, and sharding. High availability is achieved via replication and failover systems, with load balancing optimizing resource usage. Performance optimization techniques include regular indexing, query optimization, and routine maintenance. Monitoring tools like pgAdmin and Prometheus are crucial for maintaining database health and performance.

Winsage

November 15, 2024

Qualcomm’s x86 challenges with Windows on Arm

Qualcomm is working to establish Arm-based Windows laptops as a viable alternative in computing, utilizing Snapdragon processors that offer extended battery life, fanless designs, and integrated 5G connectivity. The company aims to address the software compatibility challenges faced by users of traditional x86 machines by relying on Microsoft's x86-64 emulation, which allows Arm devices to run x86 applications. However, this emulation often leads to performance issues and increased battery drain, particularly with demanding applications like Adobe Creative Cloud and AutoCAD. Qualcomm's strategy suggests a need for investment in native Windows on Arm software and a push for Microsoft to optimize Windows for Arm architecture. The company should also consider positioning Arm laptops as secondary devices for light tasks rather than direct competitors to x86 machines.

Winsage

November 13, 2024

5 reasons Windows updates as often as it does

Windows updates are essential for maintaining system security, fixing bugs, delivering new features, updating drivers, and improving overall performance. They address security vulnerabilities that arise from the flexibility of installing third-party applications, with patches typically released during scheduled updates. Updates also resolve bugs that may occur after new version releases, enhance user experience, and introduce new functionalities gradually. Additionally, they ensure that system drivers are current, preventing compatibility issues and performance degradation. Regular updates improve the operating system's performance and compatibility with new hardware and software.

Winsage

November 7, 2024

New Windows Build Brings AVX Support To Snapdragon X For Gaming And More

Recent evaluations of laptops with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processors have praised their performance and battery life, but issues arose with the high-end Snapdragon X Elite X1E-84-100 chip in the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge, where certain applications were found incompatible due to limitations in emulation capabilities. The Windows operating system uses an emulation layer called Prism to run x86-64 applications on Arm architecture, but it initially lacked support for essential SIMD instructions like AVX2 and AVX. Microsoft announced an update in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27744 that enhances Prism by adding support for AVX, AVX2, and other instructions, allowing Snapdragon-based Windows machines to run x86 software requiring these instruction sets. However, only x64 applications will benefit from this update, leaving legacy 32-bit x86 applications unaffected. This is significant for gaming, as many recent titles utilize AVX for improved processing speeds, potentially increasing compatibility for previously unplayable games on Snapdragon devices. Despite these advancements, Microsoft has not addressed the potential performance implications of the emulation process. Initial observations suggest that while performance degradation from Prism emulation is less severe than expected, it still does not match that of native Arm applications. Qualcomm is tasked with improving Snapdragon X Elite gaming capabilities, facing challenges with Windows graphics drivers, particularly the Adreno graphics drivers, which may hinder its competitiveness against AMD and Intel in the Windows laptop market.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

When these 9 problems happen, I know it’s to reinstall Windows 11

Users of Windows 11 may experience performance issues that indicate a need for reinstallation. Key indicators include: 1. Significant performance drops due to accumulated applications, storage issues, or malware. 2. Frequent crashes and freezes that persist despite troubleshooting. 3. Regular system errors suggesting instability. 4. Corrupted system files identified by tools like System File Checker (SFC) or DISM. 5. New hardware installations that require a clean installation for optimal compatibility. 6. Startup issues that do not improve with disabling startup programs. 7. Malware infections that may necessitate a complete reinstallation. 8. System instability after major changes like new drivers or modifications. 9. Failed troubleshooting attempts that consume more time than productive use of the system. Reinstallation methods include: - Using Windows Update to reinstall while preserving files, settings, and applications. - Resetting the PC to keep files while removing apps and settings. - Removing everything for a clean installation, requiring restoration of files and reinstallation of applications. For severe issues, creating a bootable USB may be necessary.