solutions Archives

Winsage

January 19, 2026

Why I’m holding a mirror up to Microsoft in this week’s Windows Wrap

A wave of enthusiasm for Windows 11 PCs was observed at CES, but Microsoft faced criticism due to user dissatisfaction. A tool to remove AI features from Windows 11 was highlighted, along with a migration of users to a specific Linux distribution and insights from Jeff Bezos predicting a shift towards cloud solutions. The sentiment expressed by a colleague noted that while PC hardware has improved, Windows has not kept pace. Users are frustrated not out of animosity but due to high expectations. A how-to guide for removing the Copilot app from Windows 11 was provided, and despite frustrations, Windows 11 PCs are still seen as valuable for productivity, gaming, and creativity, with several models currently discounted.

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.

Tech Optimizer

January 18, 2026

The best malware removal software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Cybercriminals use various tactics to infiltrate devices and accounts, spreading malware that can affect PCs, mobile devices, and smart home products. Signs of infection may include increased power consumption, unwanted pop-ups, and sluggish performance, while some malware operates stealthily. Default operating system protections are improving, and users can take proactive measures like installing malware removal applications. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is recommended for its real-time and on-demand scanning capabilities, effective malware detection, and cost-effective plans starting at a certain price per year. It includes features such as anti-phishing, anti-tracking, and a VPN, although the VPN has a daily traffic limit. Malwarebytes is another strong option, effective against various threats and offering a user-friendly interface, with paid plans starting at a certain price per year. Avast One Essential provides a free antivirus solution with strong scanning capabilities and additional security features, while ESET offers high-quality antivirus scans but lacks a fully free version beyond a trial. Emsisoft Emergency Kit is a portable scanning tool that operates from a USB drive and is free for personal use. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus features include: - On-access and on-demand scanning - Live customer support - Anti-phishing and anti-tracking features - VPN - Scam protection - Ransomware combat capabilities Malwarebytes features include: - On-access, scheduled, and on-demand scanning - Browser Guard extension - VPN - Multi-platform compatibility - Free or paid options - Scam and ad blocker Avast One Essential features include: - On-access, scheduled, and on-demand scanning - Multi-platform compatibility - Free or paid options - Strong antivirus scores - Anti-scam guidance - Ransomware protection - Cleanup options ESET Home Security Essential features include: - On-access and on-demand scanning - Real-time protection for financial transactions - Advanced security features - Multi-platform compatibility - Anti-phishing capabilities - Live customer support Emsisoft Emergency Kit features include: - On-demand scanning - Portable operation from a USB - Compatible with Windows - Free for personal use

Winsage

January 18, 2026

Windows 11 KB5074109 issues: black screen, freezes Outlook POP, breaks Azure Virtual Desktop, LocalizedResourceName (desktop.ini)

Windows 11 KB5074109 has caused several issues for users, particularly those with Nvidia GPUs, including black screens, Outlook freezing with POP accounts, and problems with File Explorer's desktop.ini settings. Users have reported random black screens and desktop freezes after installing the update, with some finding temporary relief by changing their monitor's DisplayPort mode. Outlook Classic has been problematic, remaining active in the background and freezing shortly after opening, prompting users to terminate the process in Task Manager or uninstall the update. Additionally, the update disrupts Azure Virtual Desktop functionality, leading to sign-in failures and connection issues. Microsoft has acknowledged these problems and is investigating solutions, including a Known Issue Rollback for AVD. The update also breaks the LocalizedResourceName directive in File Explorer, preventing folder name customization. Users can uninstall the update through Settings, but this may expose them to security vulnerabilities.

Winsage

January 17, 2026

Tired of Copilot? Winslop lets you easily purge Windows 11’s AI features

A new application named Winslop has emerged for Windows 11, allowing users to remove AI features like Copilot that they find unnecessary. Winslop operates locally on users' systems and provides a user-friendly interface to identify and eliminate these functionalities. It has received positive feedback for effectively removing Copilot prompts and other AI elements, enabling a more traditional computing environment. Winslop is not an official Microsoft product, and users are advised to proceed with caution as it operates outside of Microsoft’s ecosystem. It follows the release of another tool, FlyOOBE, which was also designed to disable Copilot functionalities. Discussions at CES 2026 indicated that many PC manufacturers recognize the confusion caused by AI for consumers, suggesting a potential shift away from AI-centric devices. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with user preference in technology.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Windows 11 users are still turning to third-party tools to bypass Microsoft’s push for all-encompassing AI — and “Winslop” is the most categorical example to date

October 5, 2026, marks six years since the release of Windows 11, which has struggled to gain user adoption despite the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. In response to user concerns, Microsoft introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing continued security updates for an additional year, with free access for users in the European Economic Area. Users have been hesitant to upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements, design flaws, and Microsoft's focus on integrating AI into the operating system. Microsoft plans to transform Windows into an AI-driven platform, but this has faced backlash from users. The integration of Copilot AI is expanding within Windows, including potential features in File Explorer. However, skepticism remains among users, leading to a negative perception of the company, referred to as "Microslop." Additionally, a new application called Winslop has been developed to help users remove unwanted AI features and other components from Windows 11.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Still on Windows 10? 0patch may be your best defense in the ‘End of Support era’

In early 2023, Microsoft announced that official support for Windows 10 would end in 2025, with regular updates and security patches ceasing on October 14, 2025. Users have a little over two years to transition to Windows 11 or other operating systems. Some users have enrolled in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which will also end in October 2026. A third-party service called 0patch offers ongoing protection for Windows 10 by providing micropatches for vulnerabilities. 0patch releases two to three micropatches each month, prioritizing vulnerabilities that are publicly known, actively exploited, and lack an official Microsoft fix. 0patch has a free version that provides critical zero-day patches and a paid Pro plan that includes legacy patches. The Pro plan costs €25 per year, while an Enterprise plan is available for €35 annually. 0patch plans to support Windows 10 until at least October 2030, depending on user demand. Users have reported some performance issues with 0patch, but the updates are lightweight and do not significantly affect system performance.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Microsoft Ends Windows Server 2008 Support on January 13, 2026

Microsoft has officially ceased all support for Windows Server 2008 as of January 13, 2026, including paid extended security updates. This end-of-life scenario poses significant security risks for organizations still using the outdated operating system, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. The transition away from Windows Server 2008 requires careful planning, as many organizations face challenges in migrating legacy applications to modern systems. The lack of ongoing patches means that any new vulnerabilities will remain unaddressed, potentially leading to data breaches and compliance failures, particularly in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance. Microsoft has encouraged migration to Azure, offering incentives for early adopters, but the transition can be complex and costly. The end of support also affects global supply chains and compatibility with newer software applications. Organizations are advised to conduct audits of their software portfolios and consider hybrid environments to enhance flexibility and security.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

Monster Hunter Wilds sleuth has seemingly uncovered bizarre reason for performance drops: “I refused to believe what I was seeing”

Monster Hunter Wilds, a popular co-op game, is facing ongoing performance issues, particularly on PC, despite Capcom's efforts to address them. A player on Reddit, de_Tylmarande, theorized that the game's performance may be linked to the amount of downloadable content (DLC) owned by players. They observed that their friend's Steam account, which has a complete collection of DLC, performed significantly better than their own account with less DLC. This player created a mod that allowed the game to bypass checks for DLC, resulting in improved frame rates on an account mimicking full DLC ownership. They have contacted Capcom for further investigation and have gained interest from Digital Foundry. If unresolved, they may release their mod as open source. Potential adjustments in upcoming patch notes could address these performance issues related to DLC.

Tech Optimizer

January 14, 2026

PostgreSQL Partnership Aims to Revolutionize Banking Systems in India

OpenSourceDB and Ahana Systems have partnered to implement PostgreSQL in Indian banking systems to meet the demand for secure and cost-effective database solutions. Their collaboration focuses on migrating existing systems to PostgreSQL, conducting data security audits, and implementing performance management strategies. The initiative aims to empower IT leaders in financial institutions to adopt open-source solutions for improved scalability and cost savings. The partnership emphasizes the integration of AI, automation, and open-source technologies while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.