system reliability Archives

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Google Pixel July 2025 Update Brings Android 16 Fixes: Pixel 6a Gets Battery Controls, Pixel 9 Series Sees Wi-Fi and App Improvements

Google has begun rolling out the July 2025 update for Android 16, specifically for Pixel devices, with the build number BP2A.250705.008. This over-the-air (OTA) update focuses on bug fixes and performance enhancements, particularly for network connectivity and app rendering. The Pixel 6a is now part of the Google Battery Performance Programme, which aims to improve battery longevity and safety by introducing background controls that limit charging speed and capacity after around 400 charge cycles. Users may qualify for free repairs, partial refunds, or trade-in bonuses for battery-related issues. The Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 series receive performance enhancements, especially in app visuals and Wi-Fi stability. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series see general stability improvements, while the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold experience app optimization for display orientation. Notably, the update does not include the July Android security patch or a list of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs). The update is available for the Google Pixel 9, 8, 7, 6, 6a, Fold, and Tablet.

Tech Optimizer

June 27, 2025

Microsoft is trying to get antivirus software away from the Windows kernel

Microsoft is engaging with third-party companies to establish new standards for collaboration and address concerns. The company is implementing security enhancements for Windows, including a redesign of the "blue screen of death," now called the "unexpected restart screen," which will change from blue to black. This redesign aims to improve readability and align with Windows 11 aesthetics. A new feature, "quick machine recovery" (QMR), will help users recover from multiple unexpected restarts or boot loops by transitioning to Windows Recovery Environment (RE). QMR will be enabled by default on Windows 11 Home, with configuration options for Pro and Enterprise versions. Both QMR and the redesigned screen will be included in the Windows 11 24H2 update, set to launch later this summer, with additional customization options planned for later in the year.

Winsage

June 26, 2025

Microsoft is moving antivirus providers out of the Windows kernel

Microsoft is preparing to initiate a private preview of new Windows changes aimed at relocating antivirus (AV) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) applications away from the Windows kernel. This initiative follows a significant incident involving a faulty update from CrowdStrike that disrupted 8.5 million Windows-based machines globally. Microsoft is collaborating with industry leaders such as CrowdStrike, Bitdefender, ESET, and Trend Micro to develop a new endpoint security platform. The company is engaging its top engineers, including original architects of Windows, to work on these security enhancements. The upcoming private preview will allow security vendors to suggest modifications, with several iterations anticipated before the final version is ready. Microsoft is also addressing concerns related to kernel-level drivers in anti-cheating engines for gaming and is engaging with game developers on minimizing kernel usage. A forthcoming Windows update will introduce a Quick Machine Recovery feature to expedite restoration of machines encountering boot issues. Additionally, Microsoft is redesigning the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) from blue to black as part of its commitment to enhancing user experience and system reliability.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Fixing your broken Windows 11 PC is about to get even harder

Windows 11, version 24H2, now retains System Restore points for up to 60 days after the June 2025 security update, an increase from the previous retention period of 10 days. This change aims to provide users with more time to address issues following installations or updates. Users can create a System Restore point by accessing the System Protection tab in the System Properties menu, enabling the feature, and naming the restore point. System Restore points allow users to revert their system to a previous state, offering a comprehensive backup solution for applications, files, and settings.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft Axes Old Drivers, Sparks Compatibility Debate

Microsoft is removing outdated drivers from Windows Update to enhance system reliability and reduce security vulnerabilities. This initiative may disrupt users who rely on legacy hardware, as many older devices lack updated driver support from manufacturers. IT administrators face challenges in finding alternative drivers or workarounds for critical systems, as not all hardware vendors provide timely updates. The move reflects a broader trend of prioritizing security and efficiency over backward compatibility, raising concerns about the implications for users with integrated legacy systems. Critics suggest that Microsoft should offer clearer guidance and transitional support for affected users.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Forced E-Waste PCs And The Case Of Windows 11’s Trusted Platform

The process of upgrading Windows operating systems was straightforward until Windows 11, which introduced a new requirement for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), potentially rendering many capable PCs obsolete. The TPM is used for boot validation and storing biometric data, but it complicates data recovery and may lock out legitimate users. Users have found ways to bypass Windows 11's TPM and CPU restrictions, allowing installation on unsupported hardware. Microsoft’s enforcement of these requirements remains uncertain, raising concerns about system reliability and user access to updates. Many users are opting to stay on Windows 10 while advocating for continued support from developers.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

Microsoft fixes Remote Desktop freezes caused by Windows updates

Microsoft has resolved an issue causing Remote Desktop sessions to freeze on Windows Server 2025 and Windows 11 24H2 devices. The initial fix was provided on February 25 with the KB5052093 optional update for Windows 11, followed by the KB5055523 Patch Tuesday cumulative update for Windows Server on April 8. Users of Windows Server 2025 who installed the February 2025 Security update (KB5051987) experienced freezing issues that rendered mouse and keyboard inputs unresponsive. Microsoft recommended installing the latest updates for improvements and resolutions. Additionally, Microsoft implemented a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to address Remote Desktop and RDS connection problems stemming from Windows 11 24H2 updates since January 2025, which caused UDP connection interruptions to RDS hosts on Windows Server 2016. A permanent solution has been included in the recent cumulative updates. Microsoft also fixed a bug causing blue screen errors and installation issues on Windows Server 2025 systems with over 256 logical processors, included in updates since the KB5046617 cumulative update. However, users were warned of potential login issues with Windows Hello after the April 2025 security updates and that some Windows Server 2025 domain controllers may become unreachable after a restart.

Winsage

April 9, 2025

Windows 11 KB5055523 & KB5055528 cumulative updates released

Microsoft has released two cumulative updates for Windows 11: KB5055523 for version 24H2 and KB5055528 for version 23H2. These updates address security vulnerabilities and system issues and include critical security patches from the April 2025 Patch Tuesday. The build number for Windows 11 24H2 will update to Build 26100.3775, while 23H2 will change to 226x1.5191. New features include: - Enhanced Windows Search powered by semantic indexing models. - Improved search for cloud-stored photos on Copilot+ PCs. - A Gamepad keyboard layout added to the touch keyboard. - A new system tray icon for easier access to emoji and panels. - Live captions and real-time translation for communication on AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs. - "Top cards" in Settings for quick access to PC specifications. - Voice access now supports natural language commands and Simplified and Traditional Chinese. - Lock screen widgets available on devices in the European Economic Area (EEA). - An icon in the system tray for apps using Windows Studio Effects. - General fixes for various system reliability issues. Some persistent issues include problems playing Roblox from the Store on ARM PCs and an incorrect Event 7023 error regarding SgrmBroker.exe. Users are encouraged to install the updates promptly.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 Gets Quick Machine Recovery to Fix Boot Failures via the Internet

Microsoft has introduced Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) as part of its Windows Resiliency Initiative to improve the security and reliability of Windows 11 following a global incident with a faulty update. QMR addresses boot failures by allowing users to access the recovery environment, connect to the internet for automatic troubleshooting, and receive targeted fixes via Windows Update. Currently, it is being tested in the Windows 11 24H2 Insider Preview Build 26120.3653 and will be enabled by default for Home edition users. Users can access QMR by entering the recovery environment, selecting Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options. Additionally, an internet-based recovery option in Windows Settings can repair system components while preserving user data.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft tests Quick Machine Recovery to restore PCs that can’t boot

A new feature has been introduced to enhance system reliability and mitigate the risk of widespread outages, following disruptions caused by a recent Crowdstrike update. This initiative aims to address vulnerabilities in complex software ecosystems, instill user confidence, and ensure operations remain resilient against unexpected challenges. Key benefits include enhanced reliability, proactive risk management, and increased user confidence. The development reflects a trend in the tech sector prioritizing reliability and user experience.