system stability Archives

Winsage

May 15, 2025

This hidden Windows 11 feature lets you force an emergency restart — how it works and where to find it

Windows 11 includes an emergency restart feature that serves as a safer alternative to forcefully pressing the power button when a PC is unresponsive, reducing the risk of file corruption and system instability. For installing Windows 11 on unsupported PCs, users should assess hardware compatibility, utilize workarounds, back up data, explore community forums, stay updated on patches, consider hardware upgrades, and familiarize themselves with new features. To enhance security, users should enable two-factor authentication, regularly update software, use strong passwords, install antivirus software, be cautious with email attachments, back up data, and educate themselves about phishing scams.

Tech Optimizer

May 12, 2025

Database performance analysis using pg_profile and pgpro_pwr

pgpro_pwr is a database workload monitoring tool for database administrators (DBAs) to identify resource-demanding operations. It was launched in 2017 as pg_profile by Andrey Zubkov, who moved from being a DBA to an engineer at Postgres Professional. pg_profile is compatible with open-source PostgreSQL and has been integrated into PostgreSQL 17 as of 2024, while pgpro_pwr offers advanced statistical insights and is included in Postgres Pro releases. Both tools monitor database workload metrics through continuously incrementing counters, capturing values at intervals and archiving differences. They do not provide alerting capabilities but are useful for assessing system stability, analyzing load testing outcomes, and identifying system-intensive activities. The tools consist of repository tables, data collection functions, reporting functions, and service tables. To use them, one must install the extension, configure roles, and set up parameters. Reports can be generated for workload statistics over time and comparisons between different time intervals. Examples of report types include wait event statistics and advanced vacuum statistics. Future plans include submitting a patch to introduce vacuum statistics to vanilla PostgreSQL.

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 18, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 Update Bug Triggers BSOD Error

Microsoft has acknowledged a significant bug in its Windows 11 24H2 updates, causing Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) crashes with the error code “SECUREKERNELERROR” (0x18B). This issue has escalated since the April 2025 Patch Tuesday update, affecting thousands of users globally. The bug leads to system crashes after installing the updates, resulting in persistent crash-restart loops or unbootable systems. Initially reported in March 2025, the problem gained traction following the April update, prompting Microsoft to confirm the bug and investigate its cause. Other issues include failures with Windows Hello and compatibility problems with games and software, particularly on ARM-based devices. To address the crisis, Microsoft has implemented a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) to disable the problematic code, which is being automatically pushed to affected devices, although users may experience a delay of up to 24 hours. Users are advised to keep their devices connected to the internet and restart their PCs multiple times to expedite the fix. For enterprise environments, IT administrators must manually deploy a specific Group Policy update. Microsoft is working on a permanent solution, expected in a future update, while also acknowledging related issues and committing to further fixes in the upcoming May 2025 update.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Windows 11 24H2: Update blocker due to wallpaper apps solved

Microsoft has addressed compatibility issues with wallpaper customization software in the Windows 11 24H2 update, lifting the update blockade on systems with known incompatibilities. Users experienced challenges such as wallpapers failing to display, disappearing desktop icons, loss of desktop preview functionality, problems with virtual desktops, and error messages from applications. The Safeguard ID for this blockade is 52754008, manageable through Windows Update for Business. Users may need to uninstall or update affected wallpaper apps to install version 24H2. The resolution timing will vary based on application updates. Additionally, Microsoft recently encountered similar issues with Senseshield protection software, leading to a reset of the update blockade for system stability.

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Five reasons why every business needs Windows 11

Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025, leaving organizations without essential security updates and exposing them to cyber risks. Upgrading to Windows 11 on HP PCs with Intel® Core processors enhances security, improves system stability, reduces IT support strain, boosts employee productivity, and avoids the costs associated with delayed migration. BPC Commercial offers assistance for a smooth transition to Windows 11.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

AppWizard

April 3, 2025

Google’s Android 16 Beta 3.2 brings essential fixes to battery, display, and more

Android 16 Beta 3.2 addresses haptic feedback calibration, excessive battery drain, and screen flickering issues on select Pixel devices. The update is available to beta testers using Pixel 6 and newer models, with Over the Air (OTA) updates expected within 24 hours of release. The version number for this update is BP22.250221.015. It resolves a miscalibration issue affecting haptic feedback, excessive battery drain during idle times, and screen flickering for Pixel 6 Pro users. The update also improves system stability and usability.

Winsage

March 30, 2025

Microsoft tests new Windows 11 tool to remotely fix boot crashes

Microsoft is testing a new tool for Windows 11 called Quick Machine Recovery, which aims to address issues related to buggy drivers and configurations that hinder the operating system's startup. This tool is part of the Windows Resiliency Initiative, designed to enhance system stability and minimize downtime by automating the detection, diagnosis, and rectification of critical failures. Quick Machine Recovery will allow Microsoft to deploy targeted remediations remotely during widespread outages affecting device startup, thus automating fixes without complex manual interventions. The tool will automatically initiate when a new driver or configuration change disrupts startup, establishing an internet connection to transmit crash data to Microsoft for analysis and remote fixes. Microsoft plans to enable this feature by default in Windows 11 Home editions, with customization options for enterprise users. A test remediation package will soon be released for Windows Insider Preview Beta Channel users to experience Quick Machine Recovery.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

How to Uninstall Problematic Windows Updates Easily: Microsoft Customer Service

Windows updates can enhance performance and security but may also cause issues such as system crashes, compatibility problems, or decreased performance. If these problems occur, uninstalling the problematic update can restore system functionality. To uninstall a Windows update, users can follow these steps: 1. Access Windows Update History: - Open Windows Settings and select Update & Security. - Click on Windows Update and then View update history. 2. Uninstall the Problematic Update: - In the update history, click on Uninstall updates. - Select the problematic update and click Uninstall, then restart the computer. 3. Use Control Panel to Uninstall Updates: - Open Control Panel and click Programs. - Click on View installed updates, select the update, and click Uninstall. 4. Use Safe Mode to Uninstall Updates: - Boot into Safe Mode by navigating to Update & Security > Recovery and selecting Restart now under Advanced startup. - After restarting, follow the previous steps to uninstall the update. 5. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter: - Open Settings, navigate to Update & Security, and select Troubleshoot. - Click on Additional troubleshooters, select Windows Update, and run the troubleshooter. 6. Use System Restore to Undo Updates: - Access System Restore by searching for Create a restore point. - Follow instructions to select a restore point prior to the problematic update. 7. Prevent Future Problematic Updates: - Pause updates temporarily in Windows Update settings. - Use the Show or Hide Updates tool to block specific updates from installation. For persistent issues, users can contact Microsoft support via phone, live chat, or their support website for further assistance.