process Archives

Winsage

June 14, 2026

Microsoft released Windows 11 KB5094149 / KB5095971 / KB5094156 Setup, Recovery updates

Microsoft released Patch Tuesday updates KB5094126 and KB5093998 for Windows 11, and KB5094127 for Windows 10. New Dynamic Update packages were introduced to enhance user experience by preserving Language Pack and Features on Demand content during upgrades. The updates include: - KB5095185: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 11, version 26H1, improving WinRE to version 10.0.28000.2269. - KB5094149: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 11, versions 24H2 and 25H2, enhancing WinRE to version 10.0.26100.8655. - KB5095971: Setup Dynamic Update for Windows 11, version 23H2, refining setup binaries for feature updates. - KB5094156: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 11, version 23H2, improving WinRE to version 10.0.22621.7219. - KB5098815: Windows Recovery Environment update for Windows 10, versions 21H2 and 22H2, applying Safe OS Dynamic Update (KB5094154) to WinRE. - KB5094154: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 10, versions 21H2 and 22H2, enhancing WinRE to version 10.0.19041.7417. - KB5094153: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 10, version 1809 and Windows Server 2019, improving WinRE to version 10.0.17763.8880. - KB5094152: Safe OS Dynamic Update for Windows 10, version 1607 and Windows Server 2016, enhancing WinRE to version 10.0.14393.9234. These updates will be automatically downloaded and installed via the Windows Update channel.

Winsage

June 14, 2026

Windows 11 KB5094126 crashes some PCs (HP?) with BSODs, breaks OneDrive in File Explorer, enterprise apps

Windows 11 KB5094126, released on June 9, 2026, is a significant update that introduces new features, including the Low Latency Profile, and addresses up to 200 security vulnerabilities. However, it has caused boot failures for some HP devices, particularly the HP EliteBook 840 G10, leading to BSODs or BitLocker Recovery prompts. The update may conflict with specific BIOS configurations or EFI/System partition settings, especially on devices with older EFI partitions. Users experiencing boot failures may need to disable Secure Boot as a temporary workaround. Additionally, the update has disrupted OneDrive integration in File Explorer, preventing access from the left pane and tray icon, although users can still access cloud folders directly. Similar issues have been reported with Dropbox and iCloud Drive. The update has also affected Microsoft Word integration in various business applications, leading to failures in document handling. Furthermore, changes to desktop.ini files have impacted custom folder icons, requiring users to unblock these files to restore functionality.

Tech Optimizer

June 14, 2026

Avast Free Antivirus: classic security staple for everyday PCs

Avast Free Antivirus is a free antivirus solution for Windows PCs developed by Avast (Gen Digital). It provides essential malware protection, real-time scanning, and web safety features without requiring a paid subscription. Users in the U.S. can download it from the official Avast website and install it on compatible Windows systems. The software identifies and blocks viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other forms of malware using signature-based detection and cloud-assisted analytics. It includes features such as real-time protection, on-demand scanning, an email shield, a Wi-Fi inspector, and behavior shields. Avast Free Antivirus offers automatic updates to ensure current protection against emerging threats. It serves as a gateway product to Avast's paid tiers, which offer additional features. The software is primarily aimed at home users who need basic antivirus protection and is available for free personal use.

Tech Optimizer

June 14, 2026

Automate Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL major or minor version upgrade using AWS Systems Manager and Amazon EC2

Managing upgrades for the Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition can be labor-intensive and error-prone when done manually. Automating Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL upgrades can reduce manual effort by up to 80% and minimize downtime risks through consistent procedures. The automation solution uses AWS Systems Manager, Amazon EC2, and AWS Secrets Manager, structured around two modules: PREUPGRADE for readiness checks and UPGRADE for the actual upgrade process. The solution identifies upgrade candidates using database tags, creates safety backups with Copy-on-Write clones, manages the upgrade process with minimal human intervention, and offers real-time monitoring and email notifications. The workflow includes logging into the Systems Manager console, downloading the upgrade script, identifying Aurora PostgreSQL clusters based on tags, retrieving credentials from AWS Secrets Manager, executing pre-upgrade checks or upgrades, uploading log files to Amazon S3, and sending email notifications via Amazon SNS. Prerequisites include familiarity with the Aurora upgrade process, appropriate IAM permissions, creating a maintenance user, setting up AWS Secrets Manager, tagging Aurora clusters, creating an S3 bucket, and configuring an SNS topic for notifications. Implementation steps involve reviewing setup instructions, uploading the upgrade script to S3, creating an AWS Systems Manager automation document, executing the automation document, and monitoring the upgrade process through logs generated during pre-upgrade and upgrade phases. The logs provide detailed information on tasks performed, including replication slot status and configuration backups. After testing, it is recommended to clean up resources to avoid future charges.

AppWizard

June 14, 2026

You can download Planescape: Torment’s unofficial DLC mod right now

Blizzard in Baator is a fan-driven project aimed at expanding the CRPG Planescape: Torment, featuring new narratives, cinematics, music, characters, and locations like the Frozen Wastes of Cania. The first act has launched, and the project is described as significantly larger than Siege of Dragonspear, with plans for multiple parts. Players are advised to download the mod from Github and can engage with new quests tailored for a Nameless One character around level 16. The expansion offers a less combat-focused gameplay experience and allows players to replay the game to reach the appropriate level before accessing new content.

Tech Optimizer

June 14, 2026

Neon vs Supabase 2026: $1B Deal, Scale-to-Zero

Neon and Supabase are two managed PostgreSQL platforms with distinct approaches. Neon adopts a serverless architecture that separates storage and compute, allowing databases to scale to zero when idle and enabling rapid database branching. Supabase, in contrast, provides a comprehensive backend-as-a-service that includes authentication, file storage, real-time subscriptions, and edge functions, all built around PostgreSQL. In 2025, Databricks acquired Neon for approximately billion, motivated by the observation that around 80% of databases created on Neon were generated by AI agents. Post-acquisition, users experienced reduced storage costs and improved pricing structures, although concerns arose regarding Neon's independence. Neon features instant database branching and a scale-to-zero capability, while Supabase offers a fully integrated backend with built-in authentication and storage. Neon operates on a usage-based pricing model, whereas Supabase has a flat-tier pricing structure. Both platforms support the pgvector extension for AI applications, but Supabase is fully open-source and allows for self-hosting, unlike Neon. The developer community recognizes Supabase for its ease of use and rapid application development capabilities, while Neon is praised for its innovative serverless features and cost efficiency. Migration between the two platforms is simplified due to their shared PostgreSQL foundation.

AppWizard

June 14, 2026

You can download Planescape: Torment’s unofficial DLC mod right now

Blizzard in Baator is a fan-driven initiative aimed at expanding Planescape: Torment, featuring new narratives, cinematics, music, and characters, including recruitable companions. Players can explore new locations like the Frozen Wastes of Cania, with the first act now available. The project is described as "significantly bigger than Siege of Dragonspear" and will be released in multiple parts. The mod is recommended to be downloaded from Github for easier installation, and new quests are designed for players controlling a Nameless One at around level 16. Players can load an existing save or start anew to prepare for the challenges. The unique design of Sigil enhances the game's allure, though some players are frustrated by limitations in gameplay mechanics. The unofficial expansion provides an opportunity to revisit the world of Planescape: Torment.

AppWizard

June 13, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 PC players urged to check their Microsoft Gaming Services version, as Playground tackle disappearing saves

Playground Games is addressing save data loss issues in Forza Horizon 6, particularly for PC users, by advising them to ensure that Microsoft Gaming Services is updated to version 37.114.10001.0 or higher. Players experiencing save loss should open a support ticket on the Forza Support website and refrain from playing or creating new saves until the issue is investigated. Players should also exit the game properly and allow time for cloud synchronization after exiting.

Winsage

June 13, 2026

I tried Microsoft’s new AI-powered Terminal, and it is a surprisingly different experience

Windows 11 has introduced a new command-line tool called "Intelligent Terminal," which is a fork of the open-source Windows Terminal project and integrates an AI agent, specifically GitHub Copilot by default. Users must manually download and install the Intelligent Terminal, which retains the familiar Windows Terminal interface but adds a side panel for AI interaction. Upon first launch, users select an Agent Client Protocol (ACP) compatible agent, with options to enable features like automatic error detection and session management. The Intelligent Terminal offers two main experiences: agent chat and agent management. The agent chat pane allows users to inquire about errors and receive assistance, while the agent management pane tracks active and past agent sessions. Users can also utilize other agents like Claude Code, Google Gemini, and OpenAI Codex, provided they are installed locally. The Command Palette is enhanced with AI actions, allowing users to initiate tasks without interrupting their workflow. Users can customize terminal and agent settings, including pane position and error detection features. Adjustments require saving to apply changes.

Winsage

June 13, 2026

For June, Patch Tuesday means an IT scramble

A systematic approach to testing is essential following the latest updates. The process begins with installing the .NET SDK update, then building and executing representative applications to ensure existing projects compile and run without issues. For SQL Server users, the GDR update must be installed on the appropriate branch, followed by a service restart and standard transaction execution to verify stability. Backup and restore verification is also necessary, including checking the health of Always On availability groups and testing patch installation and removal. The Readiness team recommends prioritizing testing for Remote Desktop this month due to its frequent patches and high-risk classification. The focus should be on printer redirection, followed by general connectivity, RemoteApp functionality, clipboard and device redirection, gateway access, and licensing considerations. The next priority is validating NTLM authentication updates, including domain and standalone logon processes, file-share access, and application sign-in capabilities. Other updates are security-focused with no functional changes, requiring routine regression testing across networking, Hyper-V, storage, and graphics components. Office remains MSI-only, with Click-to-Run installations unaffected by these updates. The updates for .NET and SQL Server complete the landscape for developers and database administrators.