tool Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 5, 2026

A Long Story About How I Dug Into the PostgreSQL Source Code to Write my Own WAL Receiver

Researchers have unveiled a new AI model that enhances machine learning capabilities by streamlining data processing and improving predictive accuracy. The model incorporates advanced techniques for efficient training, leveraging deep learning algorithms and optimized data structures to analyze large datasets quickly and precisely. It offers enhanced data processing, scalability for growing business needs, and cost efficiency by reducing computational load. The model can learn from diverse data sources, making it adaptable for various applications and contributing to smarter decision-making and operational efficiencies.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Defender yanks root certs as Windows updates blocks backups

Microsoft's Defender anti-malware tool update version 1.449.425.0 removed two DigiCert root digital certificates, leading to false positives that flagged them as severe malware (Trojan:Win32/Cerdigent.A!dha). This incident was later identified as a false positive, and updating to version 1.449.430.0 or later reinstates the certificates. The issue may be linked to a DigiCert employee encountering disguised malware. Additionally, Windows updates from April 14 caused third-party backup applications to malfunction due to the addition of vulnerable psmounterex.sys kernel driver versions to a blocklist. Users experienced difficulties with mounting backup image files, and Microsoft referenced a vulnerability rated 9.3 out of 10 in the driver. Other affected software includes Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud and UrBackup server. Microsoft has not explained the delay in adding the vulnerable driver to the blocklist, and other recent update-related issues have also been reported.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

PlayStation 5 Linux Tested: Steam PC vs Native PS5 Games

Linux has been successfully implemented on the PlayStation 5, allowing users to run an open operating system on the console. This implementation, led by security researcher Andy Nguyen (TheFlow), utilizes an exploit for PS5 consoles with system software versions up to 4.5. Users can boot Linux from a USB or SSD, with Ubuntu 26.04 LTS providing around 15GB of usable memory. The PS5's hardware, including its Zen 2 processor and GPU, is fully accessible, with CPU speeds reaching up to 3.5GHz and GPU speeds up to 2.23GHz when boost mode is activated. However, running Linux on the PS5 presents challenges, such as sourcing a unit with the required firmware and limitations in resolution, as users cannot exceed 1080p. Performance tests showed that Linux can match the PS5's performance in some titles, but issues with memory management were noted, leading to stuttering and crashes in certain games. For example, reducing texture quality improved performance in games like Pragmata, while rendering issues were observed in Crimson Desert. The implementation allows for a unique gaming experience, but it also highlights the complexities and limitations of running Linux on a gaming console.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Microsoft’s new Windows 11 Run dialog is faster than the Windows 95-era version it’s replacing

Microsoft is developing a modernized version of the Run dialog for Windows 11, featuring a streamlined design created using C# and WinUI 3. The new Run dialog has a median "time-to-show" of 94 milliseconds, which is an improvement over the old dialog's 103 milliseconds. This new version is designed to be more functional and user-friendly, allowing users to quickly access their home directory and supporting dark mode. The modern Run dialog is currently being rolled out as an opt-in feature for Insiders in the Experimental Channel.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

How a ’90s Zelda PC port became a fangame factory, turning one legend into a thousand

Whale falls occur when whales die and their carcasses create nutrient-rich ecosystems that attract various marine life, including the bone-eating snot flower worm. In gaming, ZQuest Classic is a user-friendly game creation tool that allows fans to create their own games, often inspired by the Zelda series. The platform has a supportive community, with a database of custom games categorized by genre. Notable creations include The Deep, a metroidvania quest, and larger projects like Lost Isle and The Hero of Dreams. Developers like Eddy Oliveira have made significant contributions, and the dynamic between lead developers Emily Venezia and Clark is essential for the platform's evolution. They are preparing for the 3.0 release, which will introduce new features to enhance game development.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

NTLite Update Lets Users Strip Copilot and AI Features From Windows 11 25H2 Installation Images

NTLite has released version 2026.04.10936, which allows users to remove AI features like Copilot and Windows Recall from Windows 11 25H2 installation images. The update includes faster, multi-threaded extraction capabilities that reduce processing time for Windows images and results in a smaller installation size. NTLite modifies the installation image directly, enabling a streamlined installation without the need for post-installation uninstallation of these features. The tool is available for free download, with a paid license option for advanced features. The demand for such tools has increased due to Microsoft's integration of AI features in Windows 11.

Tech Optimizer

May 4, 2026

Wiz ZeroDay.Cloud Event Reveals 20-Year-Old PostgreSQL Vulnerabilities

Cybersecurity researchers at Wiz’s ZeroDay.Cloud event in London exploited two significant vulnerabilities in PostgreSQL, tracked as CVE-2026-2005 and CVE-2026-2006, which were disclosed on May 4, 2026. The vulnerabilities were found in the pgcrypto extension, affecting public-key decryption and symmetric decryption functions. CVE-2026-2005 allows privilege escalation via a buffer overflow during public-key decryption, while CVE-2026-2006 enables attackers to corrupt memory through inadequate checks in symmetric decryption. PostgreSQL has released patches for these vulnerabilities across versions 14.21 to 18.2, and MariaDB addressed a related issue in versions 11.4.10 and 11.8.6. Database administrators are advised to apply updates and audit logs for suspicious activity.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

Google’s got a new tool for making sure your phone is running the Android apps it should

Google is expanding its Binary Transparency initiative, originally focused on verifying Pixel firmware, to include its Android applications and Mainline updates. This initiative aims to enhance user trust by providing a publicly auditable record of all official app and Mainline updates, ensuring that only certified Google-approved releases are documented. The updated system began implementation in May, allowing users to track every officially published Google Android app and Mainline module.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

Not seeing Xbox mode in Windows 11 yet? Unlock it using this free tool

The optional April 2026 update for Windows 11 (KB5083631) introduces Xbox mode, which enhances gaming performance by disabling unnecessary processes. The rollout prioritizes users in North America, followed by Europe, but many are still waiting for access. Xbox mode can be manually activated using ViVeTool, a free command-line application available on GitHub, provided users have installed update KB5083631. Xbox mode, previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE), offers a console-like interface optimized for full-screen display, enhancing readability and navigation with a gaming controller. It allows seamless transitions between productive tasks and gaming sessions, aiming to replicate the console experience on a PC.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

20 must-know shortcuts for Windows laptops

Windows is the leading operating system for personal computers. Many users are unaware of keyboard shortcuts that can improve productivity. Essential keyboard shortcuts for Windows laptops include: - Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Opens Task Manager. - Win + . (Period): Accesses the emoji picker. - Win + V: Displays Clipboard History. - Win + Shift + S / Win + PrtScn: Snipping Tool for screen captures / captures the entire screen. - Win + D: Minimizes all open windows. - Alt + Enter: Displays properties of a selected file or folder. - Win + Arrow Keys: Snaps the active window to sides or corners of the screen. - Fn + F11: Enables fullscreen mode. - Win + G: Launches the Xbox Game Bar. - Alt + 0150/0151 (Number Pad): Types an en dash or em dash. - Win + P: Projects, duplicates, or extends display to additional monitors. - Win + R: Activates the Run tool. - Ctrl + Win + Shift + B: Restarts the GPU driver. - Win + K: Displays connected devices. - Win + Home: Minimizes all windows except the active one. - Shift + Fn + F10: Opens a context menu. - Win + L: Locks the computer. - Ctrl + Shift + T (Browser): Reopens recently closed browser tabs. - Ctrl + Shift + N: Creates a new folder. - Win + PauseBreak: Opens the system properties window.