recovery tool Archives

Winsage

April 10, 2025

Windows Hello logins are borked for some users after latest update

Windows Hello, a feature in Windows 10 that allows for face unlock functionality, has encountered a bug following the latest update (Build 26100.3775) released on April 8th. This bug affects some users' ability to use face unlock and PIN logins after resetting their PC while retaining local files and enabling System Guard Secure Launch or DRTM. Although users should still be able to access their PCs using their Windows password, the issue is concerning for those who rely on Windows Hello. The bug is considered an edge case, impacting only a limited number of users, and regaining access is possible with a password manager or IT support. Users can re-establish Windows Hello by performing a new face scan once they regain access.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Microsoft starts testing Windows 11 taskbar icon scaling

Microsoft is testing a taskbar icon scaling feature for Windows 11 that automatically reduces the size of taskbar icons to accommodate more applications. This feature is being rolled out gradually to Windows Insiders in the Beta (Build 26120.3671) and Dev (Build 26200.5518) channels as part of the 24H2 version. Users can customize the scaling settings with three options: when the taskbar is full (default), never, or always. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced a test remediation package for Windows Insiders that enables the use of the Quick Machine Recovery tool, which will be installed automatically when test mode is activated. Users can check the installation status in Settings > Windows Update > Update history. Microsoft is also testing a basic search history feature for its AI-powered Recall functionality, which will expand to AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs starting in December.

Winsage

March 30, 2025

Microsoft tests new Windows 11 tool to remotely fix boot crashes

Microsoft is testing a new tool for Windows 11 called Quick Machine Recovery, which aims to address issues related to buggy drivers and configurations that hinder the operating system's startup. This tool is part of the Windows Resiliency Initiative, designed to enhance system stability and minimize downtime by automating the detection, diagnosis, and rectification of critical failures. Quick Machine Recovery will allow Microsoft to deploy targeted remediations remotely during widespread outages affecting device startup, thus automating fixes without complex manual interventions. The tool will automatically initiate when a new driver or configuration change disrupts startup, establishing an internet connection to transmit crash data to Microsoft for analysis and remote fixes. Microsoft plans to enable this feature by default in Windows 11 Home editions, with customization options for enterprise users. A test remediation package will soon be released for Windows Insider Preview Beta Channel users to experience Quick Machine Recovery.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

The Windows 11 Beta introduces a tool that (hopefully) auto-fixes problems

Microsoft has introduced a "quick machine recovery" tool in the Windows 11 beta to address boot issues. This tool automatically detects and applies fixes from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to minimize downtime and manual intervention. When a critical boot failure occurs, the device enters WinRE, connects to the network, and sends diagnostic data to Microsoft for targeted remediations via Windows Update. This feature is enabled by default for home users. Additionally, the update includes enhancements to accessibility features, such as a logging function for the Narrator tool, allowing users to track spoken text and easily add it to the clipboard.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Understanding Windows kernel structure and why it matters

The kernel is the core component of the Windows operating system, residing in protected memory and managing interactions between the OS and hardware. It schedules processes, manages system resources like memory and storage, and orchestrates device access. A significant incident in July 2024 involved a bug introduced by CrowdStrike's cybersecurity device driver, which operated in kernel mode and caused failures in up to 8.5 million Windows PCs, rendering them unusable. The Windows kernel is structured using Intel's ring model, with the kernel in ring 0 having unrestricted access to system resources, while user applications reside in ring 3. The kernel performs three main roles: providing interfaces for user interaction, launching and managing applications, and overseeing hardware devices. It engages in various functions, including loading OS components, organizing processes, scheduling applications, managing memory, and overseeing I/O devices. The kernel meticulously organizes and schedules processes, executing them in brief time slices. To address kernel-related issues, Microsoft introduced the Quick Machine Recovery tool as part of its Windows Resiliency Initiative, aimed at helping IT administrators resolve OS problems more efficiently.

Winsage

December 7, 2024

Dodgy Windows 11 update? Microsoft suggests you use the ‘Fix problems using Windows Update’ option

Microsoft has introduced a feature called "Fix problems using Windows Update" for Windows 11, which allows users to resolve issues stemming from previous updates by performing an in-place reinstallation of the operating system. This tool preserves all apps, documents, and settings during the reinstallation process. Users can access this feature by navigating to Settings, then System, selecting Recovery, and clicking on Reinstall now under the Fix problems using Windows Update section. However, this tool is not a universal solution and may not be available on all systems.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Microsoft explains ‘Fix problems using Windows Update’ and how it’s not for everyone

In July 2023, Microsoft introduced a recovery feature called "Fix problems using Windows Update" in build 25905 of the Canary channel. This tool helps resolve issues related to updates by reinstalling the current version of Windows while preserving apps, documents, and settings. Users can access it through the Settings app under System > Recovery. The tool activates when a Windows update fails to install, prompting users to initiate a repair. It is available exclusively on Windows 11 versions 22H2 and newer, with the February 2024 optional update or later installed, and is not accessible on managed PCs.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Microsoft still recommends using Windows 7’s Backup and Recovery tool on Windows 11

Windows 11's updated support document recommends the use of Windows 7’s Backup and Restore tool for users whose needs are not fully met by newer solutions. This recommendation highlights that the Windows 7 tool allows for creating local backups, scheduling backups via the Control Panel, and restoring individual files or entire system images. It can back up the entire Windows 11 installation, applications, and personal files, which is a feature not available in the newer Windows Backup app. The Windows Backup app primarily focuses on backing up files and applications to OneDrive, but it cannot create a backup of the entire Windows 11 installation image to OneDrive. The Windows Backup app does allow backing up specific folders and retains user preferences, but it has limitations compared to the Windows 7 tool.

Winsage

November 19, 2024

New Windows 11 recovery tool to let admins remotely fix unbootable devices

Microsoft is introducing a feature called "Quick Machine Recovery" to help IT administrators remotely fix unbootable systems via Windows Update, following a significant outage in July 2024 caused by a problematic update to the CrowdStrike Falcon software. This outage affected various critical sectors globally, leading to issues like boot loops and the Blue Screen of Death for users. The Quick Machine Recovery feature will allow targeted fixes without physical access to the machines and is expected to roll out in early 2025 for Windows 11 Insider Program participants. Additionally, Microsoft is working with security vendors on the Microsoft Virus Initiative (MVI) to develop tools that allow security software to operate outside the Windows kernel, reducing risks associated with kernel-level access. This initiative includes adopting Safe Deployment Practices for gradual and monitored updates. A private preview of these developments will be available in July 2025. Microsoft has also launched a new Windows 11 administrator protection feature and is focusing significant resources on security challenges through its Secure Future Initiative (SFI).

Tech Optimizer

October 24, 2024

Unlock the Power of Quick Recovery: Why every windows PC needs RestoreX360

RestoreX360 is a software solution designed for Windows repair, enabling users to restore their PCs to a previous state almost instantaneously. It offers features such as comprehensive Windows repair, a user-friendly interface, snapshot management, and lightweight operation. RestoreX360 helps prevent data loss by allowing users to revert to earlier snapshots and addresses issues like sluggishness caused by errors and corrupted files. It consolidates antivirus protection and repair functionalities into a single solution, enhancing efficiency and reducing reliance on IT support. The software is endorsed by the AV Lab Cybersecurity Foundation in Poland as a Fast Windows Recovery Tool. It is beneficial for various user groups, including business environments, home users, and gamers, by minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity.