security settings Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 11, 2026

Avast One: Security and privacy suite under the microscope

Avast One is the flagship consumer security suite from Avast (Gen Digital), combining antivirus, firewall, VPN, and privacy utilities into a single subscription for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It offers four primary areas: device security, online privacy, identity protection, and performance tools. Device security includes real-time antivirus, Web Shield, Mail Shield, and Ransomware Shield. The online privacy component features a full VPN service with bank-grade encryption and a no-logs policy. Identity protection includes data breach monitoring and, in some markets, credit monitoring. Performance tools assist with disk cleanup and system optimization. Avast One has three plan tiers: Avast One Essential (free), Avast One Individual (paid, supports multiple devices), and Avast One Family (paid, supports up to 30 devices). Pricing varies based on promotions, with Avast One Individual typically around per year and Avast One Family ranging from to 0 per year. The suite can be downloaded directly from Avast's website, with installers available for various platforms. Avast One includes automatic updates and is designed to operate lightly on modern hardware, with options to minimize system impact during scans. Customer support includes self-help documentation, community forums, and direct support for paying customers. Avast One aims to appeal to both non-technical users and power users, providing a user-friendly interface while allowing for advanced configurations. The product is positioned as a comprehensive solution for households looking to secure multiple devices with a single subscription.

Winsage

June 11, 2026

Microsoft patches a record 206 flaws—and one is already being exploited

Microsoft patched 206 vulnerabilities during June's Patch Tuesday, surpassing the previous record of 175 vulnerabilities patched in October 2025. Among the patched vulnerabilities, 118 are related to different versions of Windows, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server. One critical vulnerability, CVE-2026-41091, in Microsoft Defender is actively being exploited, prompting an update to the Malware Protection Engine. Microsoft also addressed ten vulnerabilities in the Security Feature Bypass category due to the expiration of old Secure Boot certificates. Of the 118 Windows vulnerabilities, 19 are classified as critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerabilities, including CVE-2026-47288 and CVE-2026-47291. In Microsoft Office, 54 vulnerabilities were patched, including 25 RCE vulnerabilities, with nine classified as critical. Microsoft patched eight vulnerabilities in Exchange Server, including CVE-2026-45583, which can be exploited in a man-in-the-middle scenario. Additionally, the update for Edge addressed 74 Chromium vulnerabilities, including a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2026-11645).

Winsage

May 30, 2026

How to Disable Windows Defender in Windows 11 (GUI, PowerShell, CMD & Group Policy)

Disabling Windows Defender is common among users setting up virtual machines or optimizing build processes, but it can be frustrating due to Windows 11's resistance to such actions. Many guides suggest using outdated registry keys, which are often reverted by updates, leading to repeated attempts to disable the protections. Users may disable Defender for several reasons, including performance issues with virtual machines, conflicts with Android emulators, hindrances in development environments, troubleshooting disk performance, and security testing in isolated labs. However, disabling antivirus software increases exposure to threats. Microsoft Defender includes components such as Antivirus, Real-Time Protection, Cloud-Delivered Protection, Tamper Protection, and Defender for Endpoint. Tamper Protection is a significant barrier to disabling Defender, as it prevents unauthorized changes to security settings. Key considerations before disabling Defender include the need for administrator rights, the effect of Tamper Protection, potential resets from Windows Updates, temporary toggles for Real-Time Protection, and the option to install third-party antivirus software, which places Defender in passive mode. Methods to disable Defender include using the Windows Security GUI, PowerShell commands, Command Prompt, or Group Policy (available only for certain editions). Disabling Tamper Protection requires accessing the GUI or being managed by an organization. To check if Defender is disabled, users can use PowerShell to review specific fields. Common reasons for Defender reactivating include enabled Tamper Protection, system reboots, Windows Updates, lack of third-party antivirus, and security policy refreshes. Installing a legitimate third-party antivirus is often the best way to maintain a consistent state. Instead of disabling Defender, users can add exclusions for specific folders related to virtual machines or development tools, allowing them to maintain protection while avoiding conflicts. Troubleshooting common problems includes ensuring elevated sessions for PowerShell, checking Tamper Protection status, and understanding the limitations of the Group Policy editor based on the Windows edition. Disabling Defender may be appropriate in specific scenarios, but for regular use, especially on machines handling sensitive tasks, the risks generally outweigh the benefits. Using exclusions is recommended for performance improvements without compromising security.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

Tame Windows 11 with Winhance + Group Policy as your preventive Affirmative Defense against undesired advertising, bloat and espionage by Allan Tépper

Users of Windows 11 face issues with unwanted advertising, bloatware, and privacy concerns. To combat these, a combination of Group Policy and Winhance is recommended. Group Policy can be used to preemptively instruct Windows to ignore specific undesired elements, while Winhance addresses issues that may re-emerge after updates. Group Policy is referred to as "Directivas de grupo local" in Castilian. Before implementing policies, Windows should be fully updated. Two essential policies to enhance control include removing default Microsoft Store packages and opting out of sending diagnostic data to Microsoft. Group Policies can be saved and shared if the target computer matches the original system's version and update status. Winhance is a tool that monitors and manages unwanted applications, offers customization options, and provides a list of third-party apps for replacing built-in applications.

Winsage

May 23, 2026

Microsoft Windows Дефендер тизимидаги хавфли заифликларни бартараф этди

Microsoft has identified two significant vulnerabilities in Windows Defender, specifically related to the Malware Protection Engine, which could allow denial-of-service attacks. These vulnerabilities could destabilize the security mechanism of Windows. Microsoft has released patches in versions 1.1.26040.8 and 4.18.26040.7 of the Malware Protection Engine to address these issues. Users with automatic updates enabled will receive these patches without further action, but it is recommended that users manually check for updates in the Windows Security settings. There is currently no evidence that these vulnerabilities have been exploited in real-world scenarios.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

Bitdefender review: The ultimate antivirus software for all-round protection

Bitdefender is an antivirus software that offers various plans for consumers, families, and businesses, with the Ultimate Security plan being particularly notable. The software features a user-friendly interface, anti-theft and anti-scam capabilities, a VPN, and identity protection services. Pricing for consumer plans starts at .99 for Bitdefender Total Security, .99 for Premium Security, and .99 for Ultimate Security. For small businesses, the Ultimate Small Business Security Plan starts at .99 for three users, scaling up to 9.99 for 25 users. The GravityZone Small Business Security plan costs 9.99 for five devices, with the GravityZone Business Security Plan priced at 9.99. Bitdefender Total Security has received a perfect score of 6/6 from AV Test for Protection, Performance, and Usability, and an AAA rating from SE Labs. The software installation is straightforward, and it performs scans efficiently without impacting system performance. It includes features like Scam Protection Pro, Vulnerability Scan, and identity theft protection, with continuous monitoring of the dark web. Customer support is available 24/7 via email, chat, or phone, and there is a dedicated B2B help center for businesses.

AppWizard

May 15, 2026

One UI 9 makes it easier to spot sideloaded apps on your Galaxy phone

Samsung has begun the rollout of the One UI 9 beta for the Galaxy S26 series, featuring enhanced security measures. Key additions include the Auto Blocker with a security report feature and the reinstatement of USB connection blocking in Maximum restrictions mode. The beta version allows monitoring of "unknown" apps, alerting users to high-risk applications and blocking their execution and installation. Users can access the Manage unknown apps section in Settings to view and uninstall sideloaded applications from non-approved sources. This feature aims to improve user experience and security oversight, with expectations for inclusion in the stable release.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

‘Avoid Disruption’—Microsoft Updates Windows Before June Deadline

Microsoft has released a security update for Windows 10 users, identified as KB5087544, which includes dynamic status reporting for Secure Boot states. Secure Boot certificates, in place for 15 years, are set to expire next month, and Microsoft advises users to update their certificates to avoid security risks. All Windows 10 PCs will require new certificates, but only those in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will be eligible for the update. Most Windows 11 devices will also need new certificates, except those purchased in the last two years. Failure to install the new certificates may affect device boot security. The update also addresses a security warning related to Remote Desktop Connection and may prompt some users to enter a BitLocker recovery key after restarting. New certificates will only be issued to devices that show successful update signals, and users should upgrade their Windows Security App to address potential issues. Notifications will be sent once new Secure Boot certificates are installed.

Winsage

May 11, 2026

Omnissa adds Windows Server management to Workspace ONE

Omnissa has integrated Windows Server management into its Workspace ONE Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platform, allowing organizations to manage Windows Server alongside various endpoints from a single cloud-based system. This integration aims to address challenges faced by IT teams that rely on separate tools for server management, which can increase costs and complicate operations. The inclusion of Windows Server enables IT teams to apply policies, automate tasks, and maintain visibility across devices. Hemant Sahani, Vice President of Product Management at Omnissa, noted that this approach offers cost benefits compared to traditional solutions like Microsoft System Centre Configuration Manager, enhancing security and streamlining server lifecycle management. The new support includes over-the-air configuration management, allowing enforcement of security policies and automation of patching. Administrators will have access to remote inventory data and insights into system performance and security issues, leveraging AI and machine learning. The integration allows for the consolidation of management tools, reducing the number of consoles IT staff must navigate. CDW has endorsed this launch, highlighting its potential to simplify operations and improve security for customers. Omnissa currently serves 26,000 customers globally in various domains, including unified endpoint management and security compliance.

Tech Optimizer

May 10, 2026

Avast Antivirus: What US Users Need to Know Right Now

Avast Antivirus is a widely used security tool for Windows, macOS, and Android in the U.S., functioning primarily as a real-time malware scanner that protects against threats like viruses and ransomware. The free version for Windows includes on-access scanning and web-shield protection, while paid versions offer additional features such as a firewall, ransomware shield, and VPN. On macOS, it focuses on malware detection and web protection, and on Android, it includes app-permission monitoring and device location features. Avast has faced criticism for its data-collection practices, particularly its past monetization of user data through a subsidiary, Jumpshot, which was discontinued in 2020. Despite improvements, it still collects telemetry and usage data. Avast is suitable for users looking for an easy-to-use antivirus solution at low cost, particularly those using Windows PCs for everyday tasks. However, it may not be ideal for privacy-conscious users or those with older hardware, as it can slow down system performance. Avast competes with other antivirus providers like Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky, each offering various features and performance levels. The company is a subsidiary of Gen Digital, which consolidates multiple cybersecurity brands, and its growth potential is influenced by user retention and regulatory scrutiny. Users should weigh their priorities regarding cost, privacy, and performance when deciding on antivirus solutions.