Tech Enthusiasts Archives

Winsage

December 28, 2024

Windows 11 Bug Won’t Let You Install Any New Security Updates; Here’s How To Fix It

Microsoft has alerted Windows 11 users to a bug that may hinder system updates, specifically affecting the downloading of future security updates during the installation of Windows 11 version 24H2 when using external media devices like CDs or USB flash drives. This issue is particularly relevant for professional users and tech enthusiasts. However, it does not impact users installing the October 2024 or November 2024 security updates through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog. The bug is limited to security updates released between October 8 and November 12, with a more recent version rolled out on December 10. Microsoft is working on a solution and recommends that affected users install Windows 11 version 24H2 alongside the December 2024 monthly security update as a temporary workaround. Additionally, Microsoft has identified other potential issues, such as some games using Auto HDR becoming unresponsive and difficulties launching Microsoft Outlook with Google Workspace Sync enabled. Microsoft is aware of these issues and is pursuing solutions.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

A weird Windows 11 bug won’t let some people install any security updates

Microsoft has warned users about a bug related to the creation of Windows 11 installer media that may prevent future security updates for new PC installations. The issue affects installations using media created with the October and November 2024 security updates, specifically when the media is made between October 8, 2024, and November 12, 2024. Systems that received these updates via Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog are not impacted. To resolve the issue, users must rebuild their Windows 11 media installers to include the December 2024 patch update and perform a fresh installation. Additionally, the Windows 11 24H2 update has introduced other bugs, including problems with certain audio devices, launching Outlook with outdated Google Workspace Sync, and compatibility issues with some Ubisoft games.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

How I virtualized my Windows 11 PC using Disk2vhd and VirtualBox

Virtualization technology allows users to create a virtualized instance of their primary operating system using tools like Disk2vhd and VirtualBox. Disk2vhd is a free utility that converts storage drives into .vhd files for Physical to Virtual migration of Windows 11. The process involves downloading Disk2vhd, running it with administrator privileges, selecting drives, and creating the .vhd file while disabling the Use vhdx and Prepare for use in virtual PC options, but enabling Use Volume Shadow Copy for external drives. To deploy a virtual machine in VirtualBox, users must ensure CPU virtualization is enabled in the BIOS, install VirtualBox, and create a new VM by specifying its name, storage folder, type as Microsoft Windows, and version as Windows 11 (64-bit). Users then allocate memory and processors, select the option to use an existing virtual hard disk, browse for the .vhd file, and finish the setup. Once the VM is deployed, it should boot into the Windows 11 environment. If it loads the recovery environment, users can follow prompts to repair the system. However, running Windows 11 in a VM may lead to performance issues unless the host system has a high-end processor and sufficient RAM and CPU cores allocated. This project allows experimentation with the daily driver without risking its integrity.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year

This year has seen significant advancements in consumer technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, highlighted by Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative in collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, introducing fanless, battery-efficient laptops to the Windows ecosystem. AI companies like OpenAI have expanded their offerings, prompting competitors such as Google, xAI, and Facebook to enhance their products. New brands like XREAL have emerged, while established companies like ASUS have innovated with dual-screen laptops. Accessory manufacturers have also improved their products. The Windows Central Tech Awards for 2024 recognize standout devices and features across various categories, including Tech Innovator of the Year, Best Processor, Best Overall Laptop, Best Keyboard, Best Pre-Built Gaming PC, Best Mini PC, Best Gaming Laptop, Best Gaming Headset, Best Tech Accessory, Best Monitor, Best Gaming Input, Best Gaming Hardware, Best Desktop All-in-One, Best Budget Laptop, Best Business Laptop, Best Mobile App for Windows Users, Best Windows Feature, Best Mouse, and Best Windows PC App. Looking ahead to 2025, advancements in AI, robotics, cloud computing, and potential breakthroughs in 6G and quantum computing are anticipated, with Microsoft focusing on AI server technology acquisitions and developments in PC gaming handhelds and new Xbox hardware.

TrendTechie

December 23, 2024

Дмитрий Стешин: Дополню уважаемого слесаря – именно Крым, должен был стать оплотом компьютерного пиратства, базой для всех торрент-трекеров

Crimea has been discussed as a potential hub for computer piracy, particularly after the imposition of sanctions in 2022, which created opportunities for a resurgence in digital piracy. Experts suggest that lifting sanctions might lead to a decline in piracy as the region could shift towards legitimate digital content distribution. In 2018, Yatsenko, the Minister of Information for the Donetsk People's Republic, proposed creating a digital ecosystem to rival Western offerings, though implementation faced challenges. The ongoing conflict and prioritization of traditional industries over the tech sector may hinder progress in fostering a digital piracy landscape. Historical examples, such as lobbying by Latvian fishing interests in Moscow, raise questions about the potential for IT sector lobbying in Crimea. There is speculation about the possibility of a virtual pirate republic or a unique Russian iteration reflecting local culture and identity.

Winsage

December 17, 2024

Save a staggering 90% off Windows 11 Pro with this limited-time weekend deal

Stack Social is offering Windows 11 Pro for a limited time at a discounted price of , down from its regular price of 9, representing a 90% discount. This is the lowest price seen this year. Windows remains the preferred operating system for many users, particularly for those who value familiarity and ease of use. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as enhanced software support, Hyper-V virtualization, BitLocker drive encryption, and superior remote desktop capabilities. Interested buyers should verify their PC hardware compatibility and act quickly due to the limited duration of the offer.

AppWizard

December 16, 2024

Android app price drops and freebies: Dawncaster, Northgard, Planet Craft, more

Google's Pixel Tablet is available at a discounted price when bundled with the Charging Speaker Dock. Sony's XM5 ANC earbuds are marked down, known for their noise-canceling capabilities and sound quality. Bose's Diamond 60th Anniversary QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones are also seeing a price reduction, recognized for comfort and audio performance. Notable app deals include: - Dawncaster: Deckbuilding RPG - Northgard: a real-time strategy game - Planet Craft: a creative sandbox game - Water Tracker: Hydro Coach PRO, an app for monitoring hydration levels.

AppWizard

December 14, 2024

Save big on last-minute gifts with Microsoft Store’s Countdown Sale, featuring discounts on Surface Copilot+ PCs, Xbox and PC games, and more

The Microsoft Store is hosting a Countdown Sale with significant discounts on gaming and entertainment products, offering fast and free 2-3-day shipping and flexible payment options. Discounts include up to 50% on PC games, up to 60% on Xbox games, up to 65% on select movies and TV shows, and up to 50% on select apps. Xbox Wireless controllers are discounted until December 22. Customers purchasing the Xbox Series X – 1TB Digital Edition will receive a bonus console wrap until January 1, 2025. Surface devices are also discounted, with offers valid until December 24. A limited-time trade-in offer provides up to 0 cash back for eligible devices until December 31. The Microsoft Store offers free extended returns, 24/7 online support, and price protection through January 31, 2025. An AI-powered Store Assistant is available to help customers find gifts.

AppWizard

December 13, 2024

Android app price drops and freebies: Streets of Rage 4, Ticket to Ride, free icons, Candy Disaster TD, more

There are Android game and app deals available on the Google Play store, with the Discover Samsung sale ending in less than 48 hours, offering significant savings including up to 0 off on 2024 Smart Monitors. OnePlus has a new all-time low price on its 55W 10,000mAh 3-in-1 USB-C Pouch charger, and Samsung's Galaxy Tab S10+ is discounted by . Notable app titles available for download include "Friday" by Friedemann Friese, "Ticket to Ride," "Streets of Rage 4," and "Candy Disaster TD."

Winsage

December 13, 2024

No, Microsoft has not ‘reversed course’ on Windows 11 hardware requirements

Microsoft updated a support article regarding Windows 11 hardware compatibility, leading to misunderstandings among tech enthusiasts. Claims emerged that Microsoft now allows installations of Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, but these were based on misinterpretations of a minor update to the article, which included light copy-editing and the removal of a section about the PC Health Check app. The original intent of the support page remains unchanged, emphasizing that Microsoft does not endorse installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices and recommends rolling back to Windows 10 if such installations occur. The minimum system requirements for Windows 11 have not changed. Additionally, installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices previously resulted in a desktop watermark, but current testing indicates this is no longer the case as of 2024.