startup items Archives

Winsage

January 7, 2026

Use Patch My PC Home Updater to Update Windows Apps Automatically

Patch My PC Home Updater is a tool designed for Windows 11 PCs that manages third-party application updates automatically. It scans installed applications, identifies outdated ones, and facilitates updates from a single interface without requiring sign-up or advertisements. The tool supports over 500 common applications and uses color coding to indicate app status. It pulls updates from official sources and verifies them with VirusTotal for security. Features include silent mode for background updates, scheduling for automatic updates, and basic app management capabilities such as installing new applications and bulk uninstalling programs. The updater enhances security by swiftly patching vulnerabilities and integrates with Windows Defender for comprehensive protection. Users can easily set up the tool, automate updates, and customize settings as needed.

Winsage

January 7, 2026

Hackers Use Fake Windows BSOD To Spread Malware

Security researchers have identified a social engineering campaign that mimics the Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) to deceive users into installing a remote access Trojan (RAT). The campaign, named PHALT#BLYX, begins with phishing emails that appear to be legitimate cancellation notices from travel websites, leading victims to a fake login page and an interactive CAPTCHA. This culminates in a full-screen imitation of the BSOD, prompting users to follow instructions that ultimately allow attackers to gain control of their computers. The attackers use a “ClickFix” process that involves executing commands through native Windows tools like PowerShell and MSBuild, making detection more challenging. The malware delivered is an obfuscated version of DCRat, which provides attackers with remote control capabilities, keylogging, and the ability to download additional malware. The campaign primarily targets hotels and hospitality businesses in Europe, exploiting the urgency of front-desk staff to respond to apparent technical issues. Indicators of a fake BSOD include the ability to interact with the screen, requests to execute commands via Windows tools, and the presence of CAPTCHA prompts. Organizations are advised to train employees, implement application control, enhance email and web defenses, and prepare for incident response to mitigate risks associated with such attacks.

Winsage

December 28, 2025

Microsoft Optimizes Windows 11 File Explorer to Slash RAM Usage

Microsoft is addressing criticism regarding Windows 11's File Explorer performance, particularly its excessive RAM consumption during searches. The company is testing optimizations aimed at reducing memory usage while maintaining speed, originating from an Insider Preview build. These changes involve eliminating duplicate indexing tasks, which could lead to a 20-30% reduction in RAM usage during intensive search sessions. Additionally, the update includes a streamlined context menu in File Explorer to enhance usability. Insider feedback has been positive, with users reporting smoother performance across various devices. The optimizations may also improve system stability and scalability in enterprise environments. However, some users express skepticism about whether these fixes are temporary solutions to deeper architectural issues. The full benefits of the update are expected to materialize once it reaches general availability, anticipated in early 2026.

Winsage

August 31, 2025

How to Fix Razer Cortex Installer Not Working or Freezing

Users may experience issues with the Razer Cortex installer due to missing or outdated system components, particularly the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime, which is essential for the installer interface. If WebView2 is absent or corrupted, the installer cannot display its setup window. Additionally, the installer relies on Windows services such as Windows Installer, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), and Windows Update; if these services are disabled or not running, the installer may freeze or fail. Leftover files from previous installations can also obstruct the setup process. To resolve these issues, users should: 1. Install Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime by downloading the Evergreen Standalone Installer from the official Microsoft page and following the setup instructions. 2. Perform a clean boot by disabling non-Microsoft services and startup items to minimize conflicts. 3. Ensure required Windows services (Windows Installer, BITS, Windows Update) are running, setting their Startup type to Manual or Automatic if necessary. 4. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software that may block the installer. 5. Delete any remaining Razer Cortex files and folders from specified locations to ensure a clean installation. If problems persist, users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 or contact Razer Support for further assistance.

Winsage

August 30, 2025

How to Fix Razer Cortex Installer Not Working or Freezing

Users may experience issues with the Razer Cortex installer due to missing or outdated system components, particularly the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime, which is essential for rendering the installer’s interface. If this runtime is absent or corrupted, the installer cannot display its setup window. Additionally, the installer relies on specific Windows services, including Windows Installer, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), and Windows Update. If any of these services are disabled or not running, the installer may stall or fail. Leftover files from previous installations can also cause complications, as corrupted data or registry entries may obstruct updated components. To resolve these issues, users can take the following steps: 1. Install Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime by downloading the Evergreen Standalone Installer from the official Microsoft website and following the setup instructions. 2. Perform a clean boot by disabling all non-Microsoft services and startup items through the System Configuration tool and Task Manager. 3. Ensure that the required Windows services (Windows Installer, BITS, Windows Update) are running and set to Manual or Automatic startup. 4. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software that may block the installer. 5. Delete any remaining Razer Cortex files and folders from specified locations after uninstalling the program. If issues persist, consider upgrading to Windows 11 or contacting Razer Support for assistance.

Winsage

September 6, 2024

Microsoft is still sharing some tips to boost Windows boot times

Windows boot speeds have improved, but users may still experience slow performance due to problematic startup applications. Microsoft has created a support page to help identify and disable these applications on Windows 10 and 11. To manage startup applications, users can: 1. Settings: Open Settings, navigate to Apps > Startup, and toggle the launch of applications. Advanced options are available for further customization. 2. Task Manager: Access Task Manager via the taskbar, select the Startup tab to view applications and their impact on performance, and enable or disable them as needed. 3. File Explorer: Use the Run dialog to access the apps folder (shell:appsfolder) and the startup folder (shell:startup or shell:common startup) to manage application loading. 4. Registry: As a last resort, users can edit the Windows Registry at specific paths to adjust startup applications, but this is risky and should only be done by those knowledgeable about the process. The relevant paths are: - HKCUSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionRun - HKLMSoftwareWow6432NodeMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionRun - HKLMSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionRun

Winsage

August 10, 2024

10 things that are slowing down your PC (and how to fix them)

Many Windows users experience sluggish computer performance due to various factors. 1. Unnecessary startup items can slow down the PC; users can manage these by disabling non-essential apps in the Startup settings. 2. Low device storage can bottleneck performance; upgrading the SSD or using Storage Sense to reclaim space can help. 3. A buggy app consuming excessive CPU resources can be identified and terminated using Task Manager. 4. Corrupt system files can impact performance; they can be repaired using the System File Checker tool with the command sfc /scannow. 5. Downloading files from unofficial sources can introduce viruses and corrupt files; a full scan using Windows Security can help detect these. 6. Outdated system drivers can cause performance issues; they can be updated through Device Manager. 7. Outdated apps can degrade performance; users should check for updates in the Microsoft Store. 8. Overheating can lead to thermal throttling; ensuring the cooling system is functioning properly is essential. 9. Old PC parts may require hardware upgrades to improve performance. 10. Running an outdated version of Windows can hinder performance; users should check for updates in Windows Update.