stability issues Archives

Winsage

March 19, 2026

AI Fatigue: Microsoft Pulls Back on Putting Microsoft Copilot Everywhere in Windows 11

Microsoft has decided to abandon plans to integrate Copilot more deeply into Windows 11 following user complaints. Features that would have introduced AI-driven notifications and enhancements are no longer being pursued. The company acknowledged user pain points and is shifting focus towards core stability fixes scheduled for 2026. Additionally, the launch of Windows Recall in 2024 faced privacy issues, leading to a revised version that includes data encryption and user authentication. Microsoft has also allowed administrators on Pro and Enterprise systems to uninstall the Copilot app under certain conditions, reflecting a response to user feedback and past update failures.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

Windows 10/11 Patch Day March: Microsoft delivers the big security update, but as usual, the real message is in the fine print

In March, Microsoft released cumulative security updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11, with support for certain versions continuing until March 2026. The updates include KB5079466 for Windows 11 version 26H1, KB5079473 for versions 24H2 and 25H2, KB5078883 for version 23H2, and KB5078885 for Windows 10 version 22H2. These updates will be distributed via Windows Update, the Microsoft Update Catalog, and WSUS for enterprise environments. This month, Microsoft combined the Servicing Stack Update (SSU) with the Latest Cumulative Update, simplifying the update process. Key enhancements include improvements to Secure Boot, with expanded device target data for new certificates, and security enhancements for Explorer’s search functionality in Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. A fix for Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) was also implemented, addressing issues with COM objects under certain policy configurations. The Windows System Image Manager received a new warning dialog for confirming the trustworthiness of catalog files, which is important for enterprise environments. Updates for Windows 10 22H2, despite its end-of-life status, included fixes for secure boot issues and improvements for file version history in the Control Panel. An SSU for Windows 11 (KB5077869) was also released to maintain update stability. Microsoft's updates scheduled for March 2026 will address vulnerabilities in components like the Windows App Installer, SQL Server, and Microsoft Office. The Security Update Guide provides detailed information on specific vulnerabilities and affected components.

Winsage

March 11, 2026

Microsoft releases Windows 10 KB5078885 extended security update

Microsoft has released the Windows 10 KB5078885 extended security update, which addresses vulnerabilities identified during the March 2026 Patch Tuesday. This update resolves two zero-day vulnerabilities and a critical issue preventing certain devices from shutting down properly. Users of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC or those in the ESU program can install it via Settings under Windows Update. The update upgrades Windows 10 to build 19045.7058 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 to build 19044.7058. The update focuses on security enhancements and bug fixes, addressing a total of 79 vulnerabilities, including two actively exploited ones. Key fixes include: - A new warning dialog in Windows System Image Manager for confirming trusted catalog files. - Enhancements to File History for backing up files with specific Chinese and Private Use Area characters. - Stability improvements for specific GPU configurations. - Additional high-confidence device targeting data for Secure Boot certificates. - Adjustments to Chinese fonts for compliance with GB18030-2022A standards. - A fix for Secure Launch-capable PCs with Virtual Secure Mode unable to shut down or hibernate after a previous security update. - Resolution of an issue affecting folder renaming with desktop.ini files in File Explorer. The update also addresses a known issue preventing Windows 10 devices from shutting down or hibernating when System Guard Secure Launch is enabled. Microsoft is deploying new Secure Boot certificates to replace those expiring in June 2026, which are crucial for validating boot components and preventing security risks. There are currently no known issues associated with this update.

AppWizard

February 19, 2026

Another step towards Vibrant Visuals

Efforts are being made to modernize Minecraft: Java Edition by transitioning from OpenGL to Vulkan for rendering. OpenGL, which has been in use since the 1990s, is being phased out due to lack of updates and compatibility issues on macOS. Vulkan, a more modern graphics API, is supported by contemporary Linux and Windows devices and can be used on macOS through a translation layer. This transition aims to enhance graphics and performance while ensuring accessibility across major operating systems. The switch to Vulkan will impact existing mods that rely on OpenGL, requiring modders to update their creations for compatibility. Feedback from the modding community is encouraged, and support will be provided during this transition. Players should be aware that their favorite mods may be affected and will need to be patient as mod authors update them. A testing phase for Vulkan is planned for the summer, allowing players to toggle between OpenGL and Vulkan until stability is achieved. Players will be notified before OpenGL is removed, along with updates to system requirements.

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Microsoft changes how it manages MILLIONS of old printers

Microsoft has stopped distributing V3 and V4 printer drivers through Windows Update as of last month, affecting printers up to 12 years old. Support for these drivers will end in January 2026, as they were marked as deprecated in September 2023. Users with printers relying on these drivers may experience functionality issues after support ends. Printer manufacturers are now responsible for providing driver updates via their websites, but existing drivers will remain operational. Microsoft confirmed that vendor-supplied drivers can still be installed using separate packages. Most modern printers do not use V3 and V4 drivers, as they are typically over a decade old. Microsoft aims to enhance system security and streamline the printing process by phasing out outdated drivers. After July 2026, Windows will prioritize built-in printer drivers during installation, and from July 2027, manufacturers will no longer be able to submit driver updates to Windows, although Microsoft will continue to provide critical security updates for existing drivers.

Winsage

February 14, 2026

Ex-Microsoft lead says he “fought hard” to save the vertical taskbar on Windows 11

Windows 11 has limited Taskbar customization options, notably lacking the ability to reposition it along the screen's sides. Microsoft is reportedly reconsidering this stance and may reintroduce old Taskbar options. Former Microsoft executive Mikhail Parakhin supports retaining Taskbar customization features, highlighting their historical significance since 1995. Microsoft is shifting from an AI-centric development model to a maintenance-focused approach, responding to user feedback on performance and stability. Third-party tools are available for users seeking customization options in Windows 11.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Windows 11’s Gaming Gains Overshadowed by Stability Crisis: Performance Tests Reveal a Troubled Transition

Microsoft's Windows 11 version 24H2 shows performance improvements in gaming, with frame rate enhancements ranging from 2% to 8% across various titles, particularly benefiting newer DirectX 12 games. However, users report significant stability issues, including Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, crashes during gameplay, and compatibility problems with certain hardware and software. These issues affect a wide range of systems, suggesting systemic challenges rather than isolated incidents. The operating system's hardware compatibility requirements, such as TPM 2.0 support, have also limited upgrade eligibility for many users. Microsoft has acknowledged specific issues related to Intel and AMD processors, antivirus software conflicts, and outdated drivers. Despite ongoing patch deployments, user frustration persists due to the slow pace of fixes. The stability concerns have led some businesses to delay Windows 11 24H2 deployments, prioritizing reliability over performance gains. The driver ecosystem's lag in updates from hardware manufacturers has further complicated stability. The gaming community remains divided, with many users opting to stay on Windows 10 due to these stability risks.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

Windows Registry Tweak Unlocks 80% SSD Speed Boost on Consumer PCs

A modification in the Windows Registry can enable a native NVMe driver, potentially doubling the performance of solid-state drives (SSDs) by enhancing random read and write speeds by up to 80%. This driver is typically reserved for enterprise environments and is not officially available for consumer versions of Windows 11. The modification carries risks, including the possibility of rendering a system unbootable and disrupting features like BitLocker encryption. Early adopters have reported mixed results, with some experiencing significant performance improvements while others face stability issues. The tweak highlights the disparity between consumer and enterprise hardware capabilities and reflects ongoing discussions within the tech community about optimizing SSD performance.

AppWizard

December 24, 2025

Three shining examples of brilliant PC game development in 2025

Battlefield 6 achieves a frame rate of 100 fps at 1440p on an RTX 4070 without upscaling or frame generation. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 runs at 60 fps at 1080p on high settings with RTX 4050 laptops, utilizing voxel-based software ray tracing and hiding shader compilation during loading screens. Doom: The Dark Ages runs at 64 fps at 1080p Ultra quality on a Ryzen 5 5600X and RTX 3060 Ti, but has limited compatibility with older GPUs. Monster Hunter Wilds struggles to achieve 55 fps at 1080p on low settings and has ongoing performance issues. Borderlands 4 runs at 40 fps at 4K Badass quality on high-end hardware, with initial performance woes affecting player experience. Gears of War: Reloaded struggles with consistent frame rates on handheld devices despite being a remaster.

Winsage

December 22, 2025

Steam’s December Update Moves the Windows Client Fully to 64-bit

Valve's December update for the Steam client has transitioned the Windows version to a fully 64-bit application, ending partial 32-bit support. This change allows for improved performance and stability, as 64-bit applications can access greater system memory and manage larger tasks more effectively. Most Steam users on Windows, who already use a 64-bit operating system, will experience a seamless update. However, support for 32-bit Windows will continue only until January 1, 2026, after which it will cease. The update also includes enhancements such as improved reporting of suspicious messages, fixes for Big Picture Mode and Remote Play, and expanded controller support, including for Nintendo Switch 2 and GameCube controllers. Users on 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 will have the update installed automatically, while those on 32-bit systems must transition to a 64-bit version to continue using Steam after the cutoff date.