system restore Archives

Winsage

August 6, 2025

40 years of Windows: How XP changed everything

In 2001, Microsoft released Windows XP, which combined consumer and business versions of Windows and was built on the Windows NT core. It provided a more stable platform compared to Windows 98 and Windows Me, despite initial malware issues. Windows XP featured a vibrant blue interface, the iconic green Start button, and the recognizable "Bliss" wallpaper. It introduced customization options, including user-created themes, and tools like Stardock's WindowBlinds. Key features included System Restore, USB plug-and-play support, built-in CD burning, native ZIP file support, and Windows Movie Maker. Microsoft implemented an activation system to combat software piracy. Security measures improved significantly with the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2 in 2004, which introduced a default firewall and a Security Center. Windows XP became popular during the rise of the internet and supported applications like Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Skype. It left a lasting cultural impact, with many users expressing nostalgia for the operating system.

Winsage

August 4, 2025

Switching to Windows 11: Really more security?

The transition to Windows 11 often requires new hardware, but purchasing a new PC does not guarantee improved security. Users should verify that the latest version of Windows 11 is installed and configure data protection settings, including diagnostic data options. Activating Windows Security, which includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus and a firewall, is advisable, and users should ensure compatibility with third-party antivirus solutions. Creating a system restore point and establishing automatic backups is crucial. Most devices support Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, which should be verified in BIOS or UEFI settings. Users should also remove unnecessary pre-installed software that may pose risks. Ongoing maintenance and updates are essential for maintaining security on a Windows 11 PC.

Winsage

June 25, 2025

Windows 11 backup warning

Microsoft confirmed that Windows 11 automatically purges System Restore points after 60 days. Users are advised to create their own restore points periodically to maintain system stability and have a backup option available. To create a restore point, users should search for "Create a restore point" in the Windows search bar.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Windows 11’s crucial Restore Points now self-destruct after 60 days

Windows 11 users should monitor their operating system’s restore points closely due to a change introduced in the June update for Windows 11 24H2. Restore points will now be retained for a maximum of 60 days, reduced from the previous 90 days. This change is specified in the “System Restore” section, stating that after the June 2025 Windows security update, restore points older than 60 days will not be available. This 60-day limit will also apply to future versions of Windows 11, including the anticipated Windows 11 25H2, set to launch in fall 2025.

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 23, 2025

Microsoft Confirms Windows 11 Automatic Deletions: Take Action Now To Protect Yourself

Microsoft's Windows 11 features System Restore, allowing users to create snapshots of system files, settings, and registry. These restore points will automatically expire and be deleted after 60 days. Previously, Windows 10 restore points could last up to 90 days, but since Windows 11's launch, the retention period has varied between 10 and 90 days, often leaning towards the shorter duration. Following a June 2025 security update, Windows 11, version 24H2 will maintain restore points for a maximum of 60 days. Users are encouraged to create their own restore points regularly, which will also last for 60 days.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

I used Winaero to customize Windows, and here’s how it went

Winaero Tweaker is a free application that offers a suite of tools for customizing Windows 11, organized into sections for appearance, behavior, and more. It allows users to enable or disable features such as the Copilot and automatic updates, modify Windows Explorer options, and enhance visual settings. Users can enable the classic full context menu, modify the Windows Explorer Window, resize scroll bars, and prevent Windows themes from changing mouse pointers and desktop icons. The Context Menu Tweaker allows customization of right-click options, adding shortcuts for functions like the Control Panel and Snipping Tool. Winaero also provides tools for modifying support and maintenance settings, including automatic registry backups and creating multiple System Restore points. It offers features to restore classic Windows functionalities and install legacy applications. While Winaero presents many options to enhance the user experience, users should be cautious as some features may pose security risks or performance issues. The application includes a Recent Changes feature for reviewing modifications and reverting to default settings if necessary.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

Your Windows 11 System Restore points may vanish 30 days earlier than you’d expect

Recent updates from Microsoft indicate that the lifespan of System Restore points on Windows 11 has been reduced to 60 days. Following the June 2025 Windows security update, restore points older than 60 days will no longer be accessible. This change will also apply to future versions of Windows 11, specifically version 24H2. Previously, System Restore points were designed to last around 90 days, but their actual duration varied, with some expiring as quickly as 10 days after creation.

Winsage

June 11, 2025

Microsoft creates separate Windows 11 24H2 update for incompatible PCs

Microsoft announced a revised security update for Windows 11 24H2 systems to address compatibility issues with the initial update released during this month's Patch Tuesday. The revised update is being gradually deployed and includes all June 2025 security enhancements. Microsoft confirmed that the June 2025 security update is available for all other supported versions of Windows. The specific hardware or software configurations affected by the compatibility issue have not been detailed. On the same day, Microsoft rolled out security updates (KB5060842 and KB5060999) addressing 66 vulnerabilities across Windows 11 24H2 and 23H2, including a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2025-33053) and a Windows SMB privilege escalation flaw. The updates mitigated ten critical vulnerabilities, resolved a Windows Hello sign-in issue, and extended system restore points to 60 days on Windows 11 24H2 devices. Additionally, KB5060999 addressed graphics support issues affecting Remote Desktop connections. Microsoft also released the KB5060533 cumulative update for Windows 10 22H2, restoring seconds to the Calendar flyout and resolving Hyper-V virtual machine issues.

Winsage

June 10, 2025

6 essential steps that Windows 11 users often miss after a fresh install

Many users overlook crucial default settings after installing Windows 11, which can lead to performance issues, privacy vulnerabilities, and complications during recovery. Key settings to configure include: 1. System Restore: This feature is disabled by default and allows users to revert system files and settings to a previous state. To enable it, users must access the System Properties page, select the main drive, click Configure, and turn on system protection. 2. BitLocker Recovery Key: Windows 11 automatically activates BitLocker on new installations. Users should back up their recovery key in their Microsoft account to avoid issues during startup. 3. Power Settings: Users should adjust power settings to prevent underperformance. This includes selecting "Best Performance" for both "Plugged in" and "On battery" modes and configuring screen and sleep timeouts. 4. Privacy Settings: Windows 11 collects diagnostic data by default. Users can enhance privacy by turning off features like "Find my device," "Personalized offers," and "Advertising ID," as well as disabling optional diagnostic data transmission. 5. Device Drivers: Users should verify that all device drivers are correctly installed, as the operating system may not install drivers for critical components. This can be checked in Device Manager, and updates can be managed through Windows Update. 6. System Backup: Establishing a backup is essential for data protection. Users can set up regular backups using the "Backup and Restore" feature by connecting an external drive and following the setup process in Control Panel.