software updates Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2025

When it comes to security, public Wi-Fi could be a risky choice for commuters worldwide

Research from NordVPN indicates that 47% of commuters use strong passwords or passcodes, 46% regularly update their software, 20% use privacy screen protectors, and only 17% utilize a VPN for added security while traveling.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

How to change to a vertical scrolling app drawer on One UI 7

Samsung has introduced a vertical scrolling app drawer in One UI 7, responding to user demand. This update is available for the Galaxy S25 series and for users who upgrade to One UI 7. The rollout for older devices has faced delays, with beta versions currently available for Galaxy S24 owners and a final build expected in early April. New features in One UI 7 include the Now Bar, which provides real-time updates, and Now Brief, offering personalized briefings. Other features include cross-app action, audio eraser, auto trim, and AI drawing assist. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a larger display, improved ultrawide camera, and lighter design compared to its predecessor.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Upgrade Deadline—Millions Of Windows Users Suddenly Move

Microsoft has made significant changes to Windows, including the elimination of passwords and new account access methods, while warning users about risks like data breaches and identity theft. Windows 10 users face an urgent transition as support ends in six months, with a free upgrade to Windows 11 available for eligible PCs. Recent data shows a 4% increase in Windows 10 users switching to Windows 11, with Windows 10's market share dropping to 54% and Windows 11 rising to over 40%. However, security hardware requirements may prevent some users from upgrading, potentially affecting around 240 million PCs. Users can purchase a 12-month extension for home use, while business users may incur higher fees for extended support. After the support deadline, Microsoft will stop providing updates and security fixes for Windows 10, increasing cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Transitioning to Windows 11 is crucial for users to access the latest security features.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Microsoft fixes «printer uprising» in Windows 11 and remote desktop

Microsoft has acknowledged a significant issue affecting the Remote Desktop Platform (RDP) in Windows 11 24H2, which began surfacing in February 2025. An emergency server update is being implemented to resolve these complications, with users expected to see improvements within 24 to 48 hours. The RDP issues arose after the optional January Update, leading to frozen login screens and blank interfaces for some users. Microsoft recognized the problem on February 25, initially claiming it was addressed in the February update (KB5052093), but subsequent updates worsened the crashes. A Known Issue Rollback (KIR) is being deployed in stages, and users are encouraged to reboot their devices. Additionally, update KB5053657 has been released to fix a printer issue affecting USB printers that emerged after the January 11 update. A similar fix for Windows 11 24H2 is anticipated on March 27, 2025, with both resolutions included in April's "Patch Tuesday" updates.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Windows Users at Risk: New Zero-Day Exploit Steals Passwords Without Interaction

A newly uncovered zero-day vulnerability in Windows allows hackers to steal NTLM credentials simply by previewing a malicious file, affecting multiple Windows versions, including Windows 7 and Windows 11 v24H2. Microsoft has not yet issued a patch for this vulnerability, leaving millions of users exposed. The flaw was reported by security researcher Mitja Kolsek from ACROS Security, who noted that stolen credentials could lead to unauthorized access to networks. ACROS Security has created a temporary micro-patch available through its 0patch platform, which users are encouraged to implement. Additionally, a separate zero-day vulnerability identified in Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers allows attackers to bypass sandbox protection with a click on a malicious link, primarily targeting media organizations and government agencies in Russia. Users are advised to install the 0patch fix, avoid interacting with unfamiliar files, and update their browsers to protect against these threats.

Winsage

March 27, 2025

Last Chance for Windows 11 Pro With Copilot at Its Lowest Price Ever

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 later this year, ending free software updates and security patches. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, currently available for .97, down from its regular price of 9. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as remote desktop access, BitLocker device encryption, and Hyper-V. This offer is valid until March 30. Windows 11 Home can be installed for free but lacks essential features for professionals. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro also provides access to Copilot, an AI assistant powered by GPT-4. Upon purchase, users receive a download link and activation code for installation on up to two devices.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

What you need to know about One UI 7: Software is hard

Samsung initially aimed to deliver the One UI 7 update to eligible Galaxy S phones by Q1 2025, but this timeline will not be met, with a new expected arrival date in April. The recent launch of the Galaxy S25, which includes the update, has added to user frustration. Users have formed distinct groups in response to the situation: some vow to stop purchasing Samsung devices, others rationalize the delays by blaming Google, and some remain indifferent as long as their devices function properly. The situation highlights issues in communication and transparency from Samsung regarding software updates.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Windows 11 update breaks Veeam recovery, causes connection errors

Microsoft and Veeam are addressing connection errors affecting users of Windows 11 24H2 systems, particularly those restoring data with Veeam Recovery Media on builds 26100.3194 and higher. The errors occur when attempting to restore files from a Veeam Backup & Replication server or SMB network share, with messages indicating network connection failures and issues with the Local Security Authority. Veeam suggests using Recovery Media from older Windows 11 builds (26100.3037 or lower) as a temporary solution. Veeam clarified that they cannot provide pre-generated Recovery Media images due to proprietary components. Over 550,000 customers use Veeam products, including 82% of Fortune 500 companies. In February, Microsoft also addressed issues related to the KB5051987 update that affected Outlook functionalities on Windows 24H2 systems.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

Forget Windows 11 — ReactOS, the Microsoft-free Windows operating system, just got a massive update! Download it now

ReactOS is an open-source project aimed at providing a free and compatible replacement for Windows, eliminating unwanted features like telemetry and advertisements. The latest update, ReactOS 0.4.15, is the first major release in over three years and includes enhancements such as Plug and Play fixes, audio improvements, memory management tweaks, registry healing, and upgrades to essential tools like Notepad and Paint. This version has nearly eight times the number of commits compared to 0.4.14. Future plans for ReactOS include UEFI support, symmetric multiprocessing, a new graphical installer, a new NTFS filesystem driver, power management capabilities, and support for newer applications. ReactOS 0.4.15 is available for download.

Winsage

March 22, 2025

Microsoft is sending this ‘reminder email’ to Windows 10 users as ‘retirement deadline’ nears – The Times of India

Microsoft is notifying Windows 10 users that support will end on October 14, 2025, meaning no more free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes will be provided. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11, which is described as more secure, or to trade in or recycle their old devices. While Windows 10 PCs will continue to function, they will not receive support after the deadline. Many PCs made before 2018 may not meet the requirements for Windows 11 due to lacking the TPM 2.0 module, potentially leaving around 1 billion machines on Windows 10. As of February 2025, Windows 10 holds a 58% market share, while Windows 11 has 38%.