pricing structure Archives

Winsage

February 25, 2026

Microsoft gives Windows laggards the ‘gift of time’ wrapped in licensing fees

Microsoft is offering up to three years of Extended Security Updates (ESU) for older Windows installations, with the expectation of compensation. Most major versions of Windows 10 will reach end of support by 2025, while Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB and Windows IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 will end support on October 13, 2026, and Windows Server 2016 will conclude support on January 12, 2027. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows Server 2025 for Windows Server 2016 users. The pricing for ESU for Windows 10 2016 LTSB starts at a specified amount per device for the first year, with expected increases in subsequent years. Customers using Intune or Windows Autopatch may receive a reduced rate. There is no official pricing for Windows Server 2016 ESU, creating uncertainty for administrators. Historically, Microsoft has charged a premium for extended support, with previous ESU costs for Windows Server 2012 being 100 percent of the full license price for the first year. The final cost of ESU will depend on each organization’s licensing agreement.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

Microsoft extends security patching for three Windows products at a price

Support for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB will end on October 13, 2026, while Windows Server 2016 will reach its end of support on January 12, 2027. Organizations using these products will receive one final monthly security update on the specified dates, after which they will not receive security patches, updates, or technical support. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allows organizations to purchase coverage for up to three years beyond the end of support, with pricing starting at a specified amount per device for the first year and doubling for each subsequent year. Windows Server 2016's ESU pricing has not been announced, and Microsoft recommends upgrading to newer Long-Term Servicing Channel releases. In the European Economic Area, Windows 10 users can access ESU until October 14, 2026, without payment or cloud account requirements due to advocacy from Euroconsumers.

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

Microsoft could reportedly merge Xbox Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass

Microsoft is considering merging its two Game Pass tiers, PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Premium, to create a more cohesive gaming experience. Currently, PC Game Pass offers access to Game Pass titles on PC, EA Play, and first-party games at .99 / £13.49 per month, while Xbox Game Pass Premium includes console, PC, and Cloud libraries but excludes EA Play, priced at .99 / £10.99 per month. The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier has increased in price to .99 / £14.99 per month. Upcoming titles for Xbox Game Pass include High on Life 2. Microsoft may also explore a free version of its Xbox Cloud Gaming service.

Tech Optimizer

January 30, 2026

Bitdefender vs McAfee

Bitdefender and McAfee are both established antivirus solutions that achieve similar lab test scores, often earning 18 points in assessments by AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. Bitdefender offers a more economical pricing structure, with its Antivirus Plus plan priced between .99 and .99 per year for three devices, while McAfee's plans start at .99 for one device. In real-world malware protection tests, Bitdefender achieved a 99.8% protection rate, compared to McAfee's 99.3%. McAfee includes firewall protection at the antivirus level, while Bitdefender reserves its firewall for higher-tier plans but offers better exploit protection. Bitdefender successfully thwarted 11 out of 12 ransomware attacks in controlled tests, while McAfee's ransomware protection is less reliable. Both offer limited VPN services, with Bitdefender providing 200MB per day and McAfee offering between 250MB and 500MB per month. McAfee completes scans more quickly but uses more CPU, while Bitdefender is more thorough. Bitdefender includes additional security features like anti-tracker and secure browser, whereas McAfee's features are more limited.

Winsage

January 19, 2026

Windows 11 Pro Upgrade Gains And Limits Revealed

Upgrading from Windows 11 Home to Pro does not significantly change the day-to-day experience, as both editions share a similar interface, performance, and core features like Copilot, File Explorer tabs, and enhanced Game Mode. Security features, including Secure Boot and Windows Defender, are consistent across both editions. The Pro edition offers additional administrative tools for enhanced security, remote access, and device management, making it suitable for users managing multiple PCs or needing corporate resource access. Key features of Pro include the ability to join Active Directory domains, centralized control over settings, full BitLocker capabilities, Remote Desktop hosting, and virtualization tools like Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox. Pro also supports higher hardware limits, accommodating up to 2TB of RAM and multiple CPU sockets. The pricing for Windows 11 Home is typically 9.99, while Pro is 9.99, with an upgrade fee of .99 from Home to Pro. Upgrading from eligible Windows 10 devices does not incur additional costs. Users who should consider upgrading to Pro include those managing multiple PCs, requiring Remote Desktop, or needing to comply with encryption policies. In contrast, gamers or casual users may find Home sufficient, as both editions provide the same gaming capabilities and interface without performance differences.

AppWizard

January 16, 2026

Best of Indie Legends BYO bundle from Fanatical brings top Steam PC games

Fanatical has launched the Best of Indie Legends Build Your Own Bundle for New Year 2026, allowing customers to select from 22 Steam PC games across various genres. The pricing tiers are as follows: 2 or more games for .50 each, 4 or more games for .25 each, and 7 or more games for each. Notable games include PlateUp!, a cooperative cooking game for up to four players, Pathologic 2, a survival game focused on stopping a plague, and the AMID EVIL & DUSK Double Pack for first-person shooter fans. Each bundle purchase includes a 5% discount code for future orders. The promotion runs until February 19, 2026, and game keys are limited.

AppWizard

December 28, 2025

4 Apps Android Users Rarely Use (But Should)

The Nintendo Music app offers soundtracks from Nintendo games like Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, accessible through a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online at .99 per month or .99 per year. The app features weekly additions and curated playlists, along with a "Extend To" feature for looping tracks. The Apple TV app is now available on Android, allowing users to download Apple-produced content for offline viewing and includes an MLS tab for soccer matches starting in 2026. The Blackmagic Camera app provides advanced video settings and tools for free, enhancing creative control and integration with Blackmagic Cloud. Valve's Steam app allows users to browse and purchase games, initiate downloads on their devices, and enhances account security with Steam Guard.

Tech Optimizer

December 28, 2025

Threat Actors Advertised NtKiller Malware on Dark Web Claiming Terminate Antivirus and EDR Bypass

A malicious entity named AlphaGhoul has introduced a tool called NtKiller, designed to disable antivirus software and endpoint detection systems, posing a threat to organizations using traditional security measures. NtKiller was advertised on an underground forum, claiming to allow attackers to operate undetected while executing malware. It reportedly circumvents security programs like Microsoft Defender, ESET, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, and Trend Micro, and can bypass enterprise-grade Endpoint Detection and Response solutions in aggressive modes. Analysts from KrakenLabs noted that NtKiller uses early-boot persistence mechanisms to evade detection and operates on a modular pricing structure, with core functionality available for [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: A malicious entity known as AlphaGhoul has recently surfaced within the cybercriminal underworld, promoting a tool dubbed NtKiller. This tool is engineered to discreetly disable antivirus software and endpoint detection systems, posing a new threat to organizations that rely on traditional security measures. NtKiller was unveiled on an underground forum frequented by individuals seeking to buy and sell hacking services. The advertisement claims that this tool enables attackers to operate undetected while executing their malware on compromised machines. The introduction of NtKiller signifies a formidable challenge for businesses that depend on established security solutions. According to the threat actor, the tool is capable of circumventing several widely-used security programs, including Microsoft Defender, ESET, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, and Trend Micro. Alarmingly, it is also said to bypass enterprise-grade Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions when utilized in aggressive modes. Analysts from KrakenLabs have observed that NtKiller employs early-boot persistence mechanisms, allowing it to remain concealed and evade detection by security teams once activated. This stealthy approach complicates efforts to identify and eliminate the malware. Further investigation by KrakenLabs revealed that NtKiller operates on a modular pricing structure. The core functionality is available for 0, with additional features such as rootkit capability and User Account Control (UAC) bypass each priced at an extra 0. This pricing model indicates that the tool has been meticulously crafted for commercial distribution within the cybercriminal ecosystem. Beyond merely terminating processes, NtKiller is purported to support advanced evasion techniques, including HVCI disabling, VBS manipulation, and memory integrity circumvention. Technical capabilities The technical features attributed to NtKiller render it particularly perilous in the hands of adept attackers. The tool's early-boot persistence mechanism allows it to embed itself during system startup, prior to the activation of many security monitoring systems. This timing advantage facilitates the execution of malicious payloads in an environment where detection capabilities are significantly diminished. Moreover, the anti-debugging and anti-analysis protections embedded within NtKiller hinder researchers and automated tools from scrutinizing the malware's behavior, resulting in a substantial knowledge gap regarding its true capabilities versus its promotional claims. Another critical feature is the silent UAC bypass option, which enables malware to acquire elevated system privileges without triggering standard Windows prompts that could alert users to suspicious activities. When combined with rootkit functionality, this allows attackers to maintain persistent access to compromised systems while remaining undetected by conventional security measures. It is essential to highlight that these capabilities have yet to be independently verified by third-party researchers, leaving the actual effectiveness of NtKiller uncertain. Organizations are urged to remain vigilant and ensure their security tools incorporate behavioral detection mechanisms that extend beyond signature-based identification to effectively combat such emerging threats. Follow us on Google News, LinkedIn, and X to Get More Instant Updates, Set CSN as a Preferred Source in Google." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] and additional features priced at 0 each. The tool supports advanced evasion techniques, including HVCI disabling, VBS manipulation, and memory integrity circumvention. Its silent User Account Control bypass option allows malware to gain elevated privileges without alerting users. The effectiveness of NtKiller's capabilities has not been independently verified, prompting organizations to enhance their security measures beyond signature-based detection.

AppWizard

December 22, 2025

Nvidia GeForce Now users just got hit with a playtime cap that’s almost impossible to avoid

Beginning January 1, 2026, Nvidia GeForce Now will implement a monthly playtime cap of 100 hours for most users, with a surcharge 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: Nvidia GeForce Now Implements Monthly Playtime Cap for Most Users Beginning January 1, 2026, the landscape of Nvidia GeForce Now will shift as nearly all users will face a new monthly playtime cap. This cap, set at 100 hours, will be a significant change for many, with the exception of those holding a Founders Edition subscription. For the majority, exceeding this limit will incur a surcharge of up to .99 for every additional 15 hours of gameplay. The 100-hour cap was initially introduced in November 2024, but it only affected new users at that time, allowing existing subscribers to enjoy a grace period. However, that leniency is coming to an end, and starting next year, all but Founders Edition users will be subject to this new restriction. Nvidia GeForce Now is a game streaming service that enables users to play their existing games on virtually any device. The games are hosted on Nvidia's servers, where user inputs are processed, and the resulting audio and video are streamed back to the user's device. Currently, the service offers three subscription tiers, ranging from a free option to a premium plan priced at .99 per month, each with varying limits on graphical quality and session duration. When GeForce Now first launched, Founders Edition subscriptions provided unlimited playtime and other exclusive benefits. Although new sign-ups for this tier ceased a year after the service's debut, existing subscribers have retained their accounts, making them increasingly valuable as the service evolves. The newer Ultimate tier boasts enhanced resolution and frame rates but comes at a significantly higher cost compared to the now-renamed Founders for Life plan. As of January 1, 2026, users on the Performance tier will face a fee of .99 for every additional 15 hours beyond the 100-hour limit, while those on the Ultimate tier will pay .99 for the same increment. For many avid gamers, the 100-hour monthly limit may not pose a significant challenge. This threshold translates to just over three hours of gaming each day, which can easily accommodate days off from gaming. For those who engage in gaming sessions more sporadically, this allowance could equate to over four hours of daily playtime on average. A Redditor has compiled a helpful chart illustrating the potential costs associated with varying daily gaming durations, ranging from half an hour to 16 hours. For instance, if one were to game six hours daily, the monthly cost would amount to .93 for the Performance tier or .93 for the Ultimate tier. This analysis underscores the competitive value of GeForce Now, particularly for those whose primary focus is gaming. Even at six hours of daily play on the Ultimate tier, the total expenditure over ten years would be approximately ,351.60. This figure is comparable to the upfront cost of a new gaming PC equipped with an RTX 5080, especially considering the current fluctuations in DRAM prices. However, many users appreciate their PCs for more than just gaming, often valuing the flexibility to upgrade components over time. As such, potential GeForce Now users should carefully consider their gaming habits and how they align with the service's new pricing structure." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99 for every additional 15 hours of gameplay for those exceeding this limit. The cap was initially introduced in November 2024 for new users only, but will now apply to all except Founders Edition subscribers. Users on the Performance and Ultimate tiers will incur the same additional fees. The service offers three subscription tiers, with the Founders Edition providing unlimited playtime and exclusive benefits. A chart illustrates potential costs for varying daily gaming durations, indicating that gaming six hours daily would cost approximately monthly for both the Performance and Ultimate tiers. Over ten years, this expenditure could total around ,351.60, comparable to the cost of a new gaming PC with an RTX 5080.

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Get 25 PC Games For $64 With This New Fanatical Deal

Fanatical is offering a build-your-own bundle deal called the Best of Platinum Collection, featuring a selection of acclaimed PC games at low prices. Customers can choose from a comprehensive list of games, with discounts for bulk purchases: four games at .33 each, five or more at .99 each, and ten or more 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: As 2025 draws to a close, Fanatical is unveiling an enticing opportunity for gamers with its latest build-your-own bundle deal, the Best of Platinum Collection. This collection features a curated selection of some of the most acclaimed PC games from various Platinum Collection bundles released throughout the year, allowing players to acquire exceptional titles at remarkably low prices. Similar to Fanatical's previous bundle promotions, this offer enables customers to select as many games as they desire from a comprehensive list. The pricing structure is designed to reward bulk purchases: starting with four games at just .33 each, the price drops to per game when five or more are selected. For those looking to expand their library even further, purchasing ten or more games reduces the cost to .90 each. Opting for the complete 22-game bundle is a steal at .78, representing a staggering 7.75 value—an investment that promises countless hours of entertainment. Among the standout offerings is the SteamWorld Classic Bundle, which includes four beloved titles: SteamWorld Dig, SteamWorld Dig 2, SteamWorld Heist, and SteamWorld Quest: Hand of Gilgamech. By adding this bundle to your selection, you could potentially enjoy a total of 25 games. Additionally, the strategy game SteamWorld Build is available, providing even more options for fans of the series. With the anticipation building for season 2 of the Fallout TV series, now is an opportune moment to delve into the open-world RPGs that inspired the show. The Best of Platinum Collection features both Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition and Fallout New Vegas: Ultimate Edition, which come complete with all updates, add-ons, and DLC expansions. Rounding out this selection is Fallout 76, an online multiplayer variant that retains the franchise's hallmark open-ended exploration and RPG gameplay. This title has also recently received a new Burning Springs DLC update, enhancing its connection to the Amazon Prime Video series. For enthusiasts of the horror genre, the inclusion of Amnesia: The Bunker stands out as a highlight of the Platinum Collection. Renowned for its tense atmosphere and chilling gameplay, the Amnesia series offers a thrilling experience, making this title a remarkable find at such a competitive price. The Platinum Collection is replete with a diverse array of games, including: Fanatical Best of Platinum Collection: Build Your Own Bundle (2025) Amnesia: The Bunker Botany Manor Disco Elysium: The Final Cut Doom (2016) Dungeon Tycoon Dysmantle Edge of Sanity Endless Alice Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition Fallout 76 Fallout New Vegas: Ultimate Edition Gestalt: Steam & Cinder The Isletide Hotel LEGO Brick Tales Mini Settlers Neon Garten The Pale Beyond Paradise Killer Reveil RoboCop: Rogue City SteamWorld Build SteamWorld Classic Bundle For those seeking alternatives, Fanatical offers a variety of other bundle deals, including the Build Your Own Holiday Bundle, featuring a plethora of engaging indie titles just in time for the winter festivities. With 29 days remaining to claim these games, the entire 18-game package is available for only .49, a value of 1.75. Additionally, for fans of the unpredictable, Fanatical presents several Mystery Bundles. The RPG Mystery Bundle allows gamers to purchase mystery game keys at enticing prices: one key for .49, two for .79, or three for .69. While it may be a gamble, the quality of the titles is likely to make the investment worthwhile. Disclosure: GameSpot and Fanatical are both owned by Fandom." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].90 each. The complete 22-game bundle is 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: As 2025 draws to a close, Fanatical is unveiling an enticing opportunity for gamers with its latest build-your-own bundle deal, the Best of Platinum Collection. This collection features a curated selection of some of the most acclaimed PC games from various Platinum Collection bundles released throughout the year, allowing players to acquire exceptional titles at remarkably low prices. Similar to Fanatical's previous bundle promotions, this offer enables customers to select as many games as they desire from a comprehensive list. The pricing structure is designed to reward bulk purchases: starting with four games at just .33 each, the price drops to per game when five or more are selected. For those looking to expand their library even further, purchasing ten or more games reduces the cost to .90 each. Opting for the complete 22-game bundle is a steal at .78, representing a staggering 7.75 value—an investment that promises countless hours of entertainment. Among the standout offerings is the SteamWorld Classic Bundle, which includes four beloved titles: SteamWorld Dig, SteamWorld Dig 2, SteamWorld Heist, and SteamWorld Quest: Hand of Gilgamech. By adding this bundle to your selection, you could potentially enjoy a total of 25 games. Additionally, the strategy game SteamWorld Build is available, providing even more options for fans of the series. With the anticipation building for season 2 of the Fallout TV series, now is an opportune moment to delve into the open-world RPGs that inspired the show. The Best of Platinum Collection features both Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition and Fallout New Vegas: Ultimate Edition, which come complete with all updates, add-ons, and DLC expansions. Rounding out this selection is Fallout 76, an online multiplayer variant that retains the franchise's hallmark open-ended exploration and RPG gameplay. This title has also recently received a new Burning Springs DLC update, enhancing its connection to the Amazon Prime Video series. For enthusiasts of the horror genre, the inclusion of Amnesia: The Bunker stands out as a highlight of the Platinum Collection. Renowned for its tense atmosphere and chilling gameplay, the Amnesia series offers a thrilling experience, making this title a remarkable find at such a competitive price. The Platinum Collection is replete with a diverse array of games, including: Fanatical Best of Platinum Collection: Build Your Own Bundle (2025) Amnesia: The Bunker Botany Manor Disco Elysium: The Final Cut Doom (2016) Dungeon Tycoon Dysmantle Edge of Sanity Endless Alice Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition Fallout 76 Fallout New Vegas: Ultimate Edition Gestalt: Steam & Cinder The Isletide Hotel LEGO Brick Tales Mini Settlers Neon Garten The Pale Beyond Paradise Killer Reveil RoboCop: Rogue City SteamWorld Build SteamWorld Classic Bundle For those seeking alternatives, Fanatical offers a variety of other bundle deals, including the Build Your Own Holiday Bundle, featuring a plethora of engaging indie titles just in time for the winter festivities. With 29 days remaining to claim these games, the entire 18-game package is available for only .49, a value of 1.75. Additionally, for fans of the unpredictable, Fanatical presents several Mystery Bundles. The RPG Mystery Bundle allows gamers to purchase mystery game keys at enticing prices: one key for .49, two for .79, or three for .69. While it may be a gamble, the quality of the titles is likely to make the investment worthwhile. Disclosure: GameSpot and Fanatical are both owned by Fandom." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].78 per game. Notable titles include the SteamWorld Classic Bundle, Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition, Fallout New Vegas: Ultimate Edition, Fallout 76, and Amnesia: The Bunker. The collection includes a total of 22 games, and there are additional bundle options available, such as the Build Your Own Holiday Bundle and various Mystery Bundles.