Status Archives

Winsage

July 29, 2026

Missed Windows 11 Secure Boot? Don’t panic, Microsoft is still pushing it in the coming months

Microsoft reassured Windows 11 and Windows 10 users that their PCs will continue to boot normally and receive updates even if they have not yet received the new Secure Boot 2023 certificates. The rollout of these certificates is expected to continue over the upcoming months. The initial Secure Boot certificate expired on June 24, 2026, and Microsoft has been replacing older 2011 certificates since 2024. The latest update, KB5101650, transitioned Windows 11 to OS builds 26200.8875 and 26100.8875 for versions 25H2 and 24H2, respectively. The 2023 certificates replace older certificates with modern cryptographic standards, allowing Microsoft to deliver DBX revocation updates without interruption. Devices using the 2011 KEK can only receive DBX updates signed with that key, which is no longer valid after June 24. Microsoft has been rolling out the 2023 certificates for the past two years, and many devices remained in a yellow or red status by the June deadline. To check Secure Boot status, users can navigate to Windows Security > Device Security. A green checkmark indicates successful application of the certificates, while yellow and red alerts indicate compatibility issues or firmware incompatibility. PCs that are older or operating in Legacy BIOS mode will not receive the updates. Windows 10 also receives Secure Boot updates, but enrollment in Extended Security Updates (ESU) is required.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

Windows 11’s August Patch Tuesday update brings several important changes, and I break down the biggest ones

Microsoft will release the Windows 11 August 2026 Security Update on August 11, 2026, featuring new functionalities and enhancements. Key additions include Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security, the ability to uninstall AI models from Copilot+ PCs, new touchpad gestures, voice isolation for Voice Access, Fluid Dictation for Voice Typing, and a redesigned Start menu with parental controls notice. File Explorer improvements include displaying file sizes in appropriate units, middle-clicking to open folders in new tabs, and fixes for bugs. Users can manage AI models through Settings, and the Lock screen will default to the Weather widget. Touchpad settings will allow customization of scroll and zoom speeds. Fluid Dictation will be deactivated by default, with tooltips for guidance, while Voice Access will feature enhanced speech recognition settings. The Account Control interface will be redesigned for clarity, and power settings will apply across all plans. Windows Update will provide better progress estimates and improved post-update cleanup. Enhancements to system sounds in dark mode will also be included.

Tech Optimizer

July 28, 2026

ClamAV Setup: Linux Antivirus in 12 Steps [2026]

Malware can threaten Linux systems, which are often mistakenly believed to be immune to viruses. It can be introduced through email attachments, infected files, or compromised plugins, especially when Linux servers interact with Windows clients or handle internet uploads. ClamAV is an open-source antivirus engine maintained by Cisco Talos, designed for scanning mail traffic and file uploads. As of mid-2026, the stable release is ClamAV 1.5.x, with version 1.5.2 being the latest patch. To deploy ClamAV, users need root or sudo access on a compatible Linux machine, at least 2 vCPUs and 2GB of RAM, 5GB of free disk space, and outbound HTTPS access to ClamAV’s signature mirrors. The installation process involves several steps, including configuring freshclam for automatic updates, validating detection with the EICAR test file, and setting up cron jobs for regular scans. ClamAV can also be integrated with mail servers and a SIEM for enhanced security. Common pitfalls in deployment include skipping the initial freshclam run and using clamscan instead of clamdscan for repeated scans. ClamAV is free for commercial use and can also scan Windows systems, although it does not replace comprehensive endpoint protection solutions.

Winsage

July 28, 2026

Windows 11 ruined my old laptop, but this lightweight Linux distro brought it back to life

An early 2019 Acer Aspire laptop, previously slow and deemed obsolete after updating to Windows 11, was transformed by installing Zorin OS Lite. The laptop, equipped with 4GB of RAM and an Intel Core i3-8145U processor, experienced significant performance improvements, including faster boot times and quicker application launches. The user found the transition to Zorin OS Lite seamless, with familiar keyboard shortcuts and a smooth interface. Performance metrics showed a Speedometer score increase from 5.68 on Windows 11 to 12.0 on Zorin OS Lite, and the system utilized less RAM while idle. The laptop regained functionality, suitable for travel and quick tasks, and the user felt encouraged to explore more complex Linux distributions.

Winsage

July 27, 2026

FreeBSD Developing New NTSYNC Driver For Accelerating Windows NT Sync Primitives

The FreeBSD project released its Q2-2026 status report, highlighting several advancements, including the introduction of an AMD ROCm port and the development of a new NTSYNC driver. Enhancements for desktop and laptop users included porting the latest graphics driver code, transferring WiFi driver code from Linux, improving suspend and resume functionalities, enhancing support for the Framework Laptop, implementing suspend-to-disk capabilities, and refining the audio stack. An intern from the FreeBSD Foundation worked on porting AMD ROCm, and the NTSYNC driver is designed to be compatible with the Linux 7.0 interface. The unified system management platform, Sylve, received new features, and improvements were made in the scheduler, IPv6 support, and various software updates.

Winsage

July 27, 2026

You heard wrong, Microsoft isn’t ending pirated Windows 11 with TPM, and the new rule only affects enterprise KMS servers

On July 22, Microsoft announced the KMS Hardware-Secured requirement, linking Windows volume activation servers to a TPM chip. This initiative is aimed at organizations using Key Management Service (KMS) servers to enhance security by ensuring that KMS hosts verify their identity and integrity through the TPM before activating Windows machines. The motivation behind this requirement is to prevent unauthorized activation methods that exploit fake KMS servers. Organizations are advised to ensure their KMS hosts are certified and that TPM is enabled. The KMS Hardware-Secured measures do not target individual users with pirated copies of Windows, as most current piracy methods do not involve KMS servers. Microsoft has not pursued legal action against minor piracy instances, focusing instead on maintaining user engagement through subscriptions and services.

AppWizard

July 27, 2026

Ubisoft says the Black Flag remake has exceeded ‘annual expectations’ in just two weeks, shortly after it laid off a number of the people who made it

Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced sold 2 million copies within 24 hours of its release. Ubisoft's CEO, Yves Guillemot, stated that the game exceeded annual expectations within two weeks and is the highest-rated entry in the franchise since the original Black Flag. The game was developed with significant contributions from Ubisoft Barcelona, particularly in the underwater levels. Despite its success, the launch occurred amidst recent layoffs at Ubisoft, affecting hundreds of employees. Player reception has been mostly positive, but some critiques have emerged regarding day-one downloadable content, simplified swordfights, and an in-game shop. A review by PC Gamer described the game as "a well-made, but inessential remake that loses more than it gains."

Winsage

July 26, 2026

Are you the family’s tech support? This Windows security checklist helped put an end to late night panic texts.

- A text message from the author's father prompted a discussion about using a password manager for cybersecurity. - The author's mother had a previous concern about an unexpected "tech support" notification on her computer. - The author created a cybersecurity best practices document to help their parents and others with technology. - Key security vulnerabilities to address include enabling Windows Hello, ensuring Windows Update is running, confirming Windows Defender is on, and turning on the 'Find my Device' feature. - One-time security measures recommended are switching from a local account to a Microsoft account with two-factor authentication, enabling device encryption, switching from a Windows 11 Administrator account to a Standard account, and using a password manager. - Good cybersecurity habits include learning to spot phishing scams, being cautious of unsolicited tech support calls, and avoiding the installation of unsolicited software.

Winsage

July 26, 2026

How I stopped being my parents’ emergency IT hotline — The complete list of Windows Security settings I made them fix once and for all

A family member inquired about the necessity of a password manager, reflecting growing cybersecurity concerns. A parent received a suspicious "tech support" message, indicating potential security risks. Windows Hello allows users to log in with a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition on Windows 11 PCs. Users can set it up via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Regular updates through Windows Update are essential for security, and users can check their status in Settings > Windows Update. Windows Defender is the built-in antivirus for Windows 11, typically enabled by default, but users should verify its status in Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection. The 'Find My Device' feature can be enabled in Settings > Privacy & security > Find my device to track and lock a lost or stolen laptop. Switching from a local account to a Microsoft account with two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances security, accessible via Settings > Accounts > Your info. Device encryption can protect sensitive data, available in Settings > Privacy & security > Device encryption for Home versions and BitLocker for Pro versions. Using a Standard account instead of an Administrator account reduces malware risks, managed through Settings > Accounts > Family. Password managers like NordPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden help generate strong, unique passwords for accounts. Users should learn to spot phishing scams, be cautious of unsolicited tech support calls, and avoid installing software suggested by unknown callers to maintain cybersecurity.

AppWizard

July 26, 2026

25-Year-Old Game Is Currently the #1 Best-Selling Game on Steam

Halo: Campaign Evolved, a remake of Halo: Combat Evolved, has been released in early access on the Steam marketplace by Xbox and Halo Studios. It has quickly become a top seller on Steam, currently priced competitively. The game has received a “Mostly Positive” rating from users, with around 70% of reviews being positive. Players have praised its gameplay mechanics and visuals, but there are concerns about bugs, performance issues, and the quality of cutscenes. The game has been verified for compatibility with the Steam Deck. Its position as a top seller may be challenged by other games like Palworld as the gaming community explores new releases.