update process

Winsage
December 28, 2024
Microsoft has issued a warning for Windows users about the installation process for Windows 11 24H2, indicating that a mistake during installation could prevent devices from receiving future Windows security updates. Users installing Windows 11 24H2 with the October or November 2024 security updates via USB or external drives may disrupt Windows Update functionality, as the version is shipped without these specific patches. The issue occurs only when installation media includes these updates; devices receiving updates through the standard Windows Update process are not affected. Microsoft suggests using the Media Creation Tool to create new installation media if users encounter issues with cumulative updates after installing Windows 11 24H2. The company acknowledges that the situation affects only a small number of PCs, though the number of affected users may be higher than initially thought. Microsoft is working on a permanent solution and advises users to use the December 2024 security update to avoid complications with media-based installations.
Winsage
December 28, 2024
The Windows Insider program allows users to test unreleased features of Windows 11 and provide feedback. Participants may encounter several issues, including: - Unstable user interface with bugs, glitches, unexpected freezes, and scaling issues. - Random reboots that risk losing unsaved work. - Throttled performance during resource-intensive tasks, such as gaming and video editing. - Increased potential for data loss due to system failures and blue screens of death (BSOD). - Microsoft collects diagnostic data from users, raising privacy concerns. - Frequent updates that can introduce new issues and require significant time for installation. Overall, the experience may lead users to prefer stable releases over Insider builds.
Winsage
December 27, 2024
Microsoft has issued an advisory for Windows users regarding potential issues when updating to Windows 11 version 24H2 using external media. If users create installation media that includes the October or November 2024 security updates, their devices may end up in a state where they cannot accept further Windows security updates. This problem does not affect devices that receive updates through the standard Windows Update process. The issue is reported to impact only a small number of users, and Microsoft recommends using the Media Creation Tool to create new media and reinstall the operating system if users encounter update problems.
Winsage
December 18, 2024
The author needed to acquire a new laptop for a colleague and chose one at Costco after conducting personal research. Upon bringing the laptop home, the setup process was delayed by a lengthy update that took over 30 minutes, followed by an upgrade to version 23H2 that took an additional hour. The update process was complicated by the laptop entering sleep mode and requiring multiple updates, including a substantial 24H2. Additionally, the manufacturer’s software added 1.4 gigabytes of drivers, necessitating a reboot. The entire process stretched from around 6 PM to midnight, with significant data downloads involved. The author also faced issues with Microsoft Edge, which prompted unwanted notifications and settings imports despite instructions to keep browsers distinct.
Winsage
December 18, 2024
A colleague's laptop at work failed just before their month-long leave, prompting an urgent need for a replacement. The author went to Costco to choose between two laptops, receiving inadequate advice from a sales associate. After purchasing a laptop, the setup process involved lengthy updates, including a significant upgrade to version 23H2 and additional updates that extended the process into the night. The manufacturer’s software added complexity with further downloads and required reboots. The author noted excessive bandwidth consumption during the updates despite high internet speeds and encountered issues with the laptop entering sleep mode. Additionally, while setting up the laptop, the author accidentally visited a scam site and faced persistent marketing from Edge to switch default browsers.
AppWizard
December 18, 2024
Nvidia has introduced a new application to enhance the PC gaming experience, replacing GeForce Experience. Initial feedback suggests that the app may decrease frame rates by up to 15% in popular games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Flight Simulator 2024, primarily due to its AI-powered RTX game filters, which impact performance even when not in use. A workaround involves disabling Game Filters and Photo Mode in the app settings to restore performance. The app also includes updates for Nvidia drivers, but installation is optional. Nvidia is working on solutions and plans to introduce additional features, including enhancements to the Control Panel. The new app is expected to leverage the upcoming Nvidia RTX 50 series GPUs, anticipated to be unveiled at CES 2025.
Winsage
December 9, 2024
Windows 11 has faced challenges with the 24H2 update, affecting users, particularly gamers. Microsoft initially blocked updates for users with certain Ubisoft games installed: Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Assassin's Creed Origins, Assassin's Creed Odyssey, Star Wars Outlaws, and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. Recently, Star Wars Outlaws and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora have been cleared of issues due to hotfixes from Ubisoft, although players may still encounter performance problems. The safeguard hold for these games was lifted on 12/05/2024. The update process may take up to 48 hours after fixes are applied, and restarting the device may expedite it. Challenges with Windows 11 24H2 and update blocks persist, with ongoing efforts from Microsoft and developers to resolve them.
Winsage
December 9, 2024
Microsoft has announced significant improvements to the Microsoft Store, including a 25% reduction in launch times and a 50% decrease in download hang-ups. Enhancements have been made in discoverability, navigation, update management, and installation methods for Win32 apps. Users can now update externally hosted apps directly through the Microsoft Store, streamlining the update process. However, the Store still lacks popular applications like Steam and Google Chrome, which raises questions about its viability. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced a Multi-app camera feature in the Canary builds of Windows 11, allowing users to stream from a single camera to multiple applications simultaneously. This aims to simplify the user experience for video calls across different platforms. The feature is also positioned as a tool for users who are hard of hearing, although its connection to accessibility is unclear. Lastly, Microsoft has rolled out Copilot+ for Intel and AMD PCs.
Winsage
December 7, 2024
Microsoft is working to enhance the Windows App Store by allowing third-party publishers to manage updates for their Win32 applications directly through the Store. The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27758 introduces support for Win32 applications, enabling users to manage and update these programs without leaving the Store. Users can access updates via the "Downloads" page, but must manually initiate the update process. This centralized update feature is exclusive to applications downloaded from the Microsoft Store, while traditional Win32 software remains unaffected. The update capability provides developers with a new distribution method while retaining control over updates. Additionally, the build addresses various bugs in Windows components, although some compatibility issues with Windows 11 24H2 persist.
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