Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of Windows 11’s PC-to-PC migration tool, which was designed for direct file transfers over local Wi-Fi or LAN connections. This tool, integrated into the Windows Backup application, allowed users to connect two computers using a one-time code to transfer specific files and folders without requiring cloud storage. Users are now directed to use Windows Backup, which relies on OneDrive for file synchronization and restoration, posing challenges for those with limited OneDrive capacity. The former tool also allowed the transfer of certain Windows settings but did not include installed applications, saved passwords, or sign-in credentials. Microsoft has updated its support documentation to confirm that the PC-to-PC Migration feature is no longer available.
Several utilities have been left out of Windows 11, including:
- Windows Easy Transfer: A tool that allowed users to transfer files and settings between PCs using a USB flash drive. It was not included in Windows 10 and remains absent in Windows 11.
- Windows Media Center: An application that transformed PCs into media hubs for watching movies, listening to music, and recording television shows. It did not transition to Windows 10 and is also missing in Windows 11.
- Taskbar Toolbars: A feature that enabled users to pin folders to the taskbar for quick access. This feature is not present in Windows 11.
- Steps Recorder: A troubleshooting tool that recorded screen actions and documented steps taken during processes. Although initially available in Windows 11, it has been deprecated.
These omissions have disappointed users who valued the functionality these tools provided.
- Android version 9.0 or newer (64-bit) is required for 3DS emulation via Azahar; 6.0+ covers GBA and most DS apps.
- Snapdragon 835 or better is the documented floor for 3DS titles; Snapdragon 845+ is recommended for a smooth experience.
- 4GB minimum RAM is required, with 6-8GB recommended for running multiple emulators simultaneously.
- At least 4-8GB of free storage is needed for ROM dumps.
- A file manager app is required to navigate to app-specific storage folders.
- Own game cartridges or purchased digital copies are needed to dump ROMs legally.
- A Bluetooth or USB-C controller is strongly recommended for anything past the GBA generation.
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is the leading antivirus solution for Mac users in 2026, particularly effective on Apple Silicon and against live macOS threats. It achieved the highest malware detection rates, the fewest false alarms, and minimal impact on startup time. Other notable antivirus options include Norton 360 for Mac, Avast One for Mac, NordVPN Threat Protection Pro, McAfee Total Protection for Mac, and Malwarebytes for Mac. Each antivirus was tested on a MacBook Air against various malware, adware, and phishing threats, focusing on real-time protection, adware removal, and system performance impact.
macOS includes built-in protections like XProtect, Gatekeeper, System Integrity Protection, app sandboxing, and Lockdown Mode, which provide a solid defense for users who only install software from the App Store. However, users who install software from outside the App Store, transfer files between Mac and Windows, store sensitive data, use second-hand Macs, or have previously encountered malware may need additional antivirus software.
Common threats for Mac users include adware, infostealers, and malvertising. The rankings of antivirus solutions were based on AV-TEST results, malware tests, system impact, and unique features. Bitdefender received a perfect score at AV-TEST and demonstrated 99.9% malware detection with only one false alarm. Free antivirus options like Avast One for Mac and Malwarebytes Free are available, with Avast One providing genuine real-time protection at no cost.
Huawei will launch its first PCs powered by HarmonyOS in September, aiming to reduce China's reliance on Windows and create a homegrown computing ecosystem. The rollout will initially target government departments, financial institutions, and enterprise customers. HarmonyOS has been developed in response to U.S. sanctions, which restricted Huawei's access to Google services, advanced chips, and Windows licensing. The operating system has achieved high-level Chinese security certifications, making it suitable for sensitive government use. Huawei plans to build an interconnected ecosystem similar to Apple's, integrating HarmonyOS laptops with its other devices.
LabubaRAT is a newly identified Rust-based remote access tool (RAT) that disguises itself as NVIDIA software to facilitate operations on Windows systems. It establishes a reusable foothold for hands-on activity and can profile the host system, identify security tools, execute commands, transfer files, capture screenshots, and proxy network traffic. LabubaRAT retrieves its configuration at launch via command-line arguments or environment variables, allowing operators to specify parameters like the command-and-control server and API key at runtime. It maintains local state in a SQLite database and supports communication through HTTPS polling, Microsoft Edge WebView2, and DNS tunneling. The malware includes capabilities for command execution, file handling, and establishing persistence through a Windows Run registry key. The entry point for the attack is an executable named nvidia-sysruntime.exe, which masquerades as NVIDIA’s container runtime toolkit. LabubaRAT conducts thorough profiling of the host, checking for installed browsers and security products, and gathers information on the system's specifications. Blackpoint Cyber has shared indicators of compromise to help detect LabubaRAT activity.
Finding a reliable antivirus solution for Windows XP is challenging due to the lack of support since 2014. Major antivirus vendors have withdrawn compatibility, leaving limited options. Panda Security continues to support Windows XP with its Panda Dome antivirus, which offers real-time protection and a cloud-based engine.
Antivirus software can block known malware, flag suspicious activity, and stop recognized threats, but it cannot patch the operating system itself. Users have fewer choices for protection as new vulnerabilities emerge.
Several antivirus tools compatible with Windows XP include:
- Panda Dome: Actively maintained, offers real-time protection, free and paid plans available.
- Avast (v18.8): Limited support, last updates in October 2024, free legacy version only.
- AVG (v9): Discontinued in 2019, operates offline, free legacy version only.
- ClamWin: Open-source, actively maintained, no real-time protection, free.
- 360 Total Security: Active legacy version, multi-engine approach, real-time protection, free and premium options.
- Malwarebytes (legacy): Only older versions support XP, best as a supplement, free legacy version.
- VirIT eXplorer Lite: Actively maintained, free lite version with real-time protection.
Choosing the right antivirus requires consideration of internet connectivity, hardware age, update status, and whether to use free or paid options. For most users, Panda Dome is recommended for its active support and real-time protection.
To enhance security on Windows XP, users should keep machines offline when possible, use ad blockers, be cautious with emails and links, avoid fake antivirus downloads, transfer files via USB from modern computers, and keep third-party software updated.
Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission when purchases are made through links in their articles. The author initially used Pushbullet for data transfer but switched to a NAS system, specifically the DiskStation DS1823xs+, for storing data. They discovered Quick Share, Google's file-sharing method for Android, which is now available on Windows and compatible with both Android and iPhone devices. Quick Share was first introduced on Windows in 2021, initially limited to Samsung Galaxy Book devices, but a standalone app is now available for any Windows PC. To use Quick Share, users must download the app, log in with their Google account, and can then easily transfer files between their phone and PC. The author finds Quick Share reliable, although large file transfers may take time due to Bluetooth reliance.
The author initially used Pushbullet for data transfer between their smartphone and Windows PC but switched to a NAS solution, specifically the DiskStation DS1823xs+, for easier file uploads and downloads. They found Syncthing as an alternative for syncing folders but discovered Quick Share as a more efficient option. Quick Share is Google's default method for sharing data between Android devices and is compatible with iPhones, particularly models like the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10. It requires a 64-bit version of Windows (Windows 10 or 11) and allows for seamless file transfers, including folders, with no connectivity issues reported during a month of use. To use Quick Share, users must download the application on Windows, log in with the same Google account linked to their phone, and select their PC as a target device for file transfers. The process involves selecting files on the phone, choosing Quick Share, and initiating the transfer on the PC.