Upgrade Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 6, 2026

I tested AVG antivirus. It’s proof great AV doesn’t need to be pricey

The cost of AVG Internet Security includes a single-device plan starting at a specified amount for the first year, which then increases to a higher annual fee, and a multi-device plan for up to ten devices that starts at a different amount for the first year and rises to a specified annual fee thereafter. The multi-device option allows sharing among family members. AVG Internet Security adds five features to its free antivirus: password protection, webcam safeguards, monitoring for unauthorized file access, defense against malicious website redirects, and protection against remote desktop protocol attacks. It does not include a VPN, which requires an upgrade or separate purchase. The installation process is straightforward, with a user-friendly dashboard. Users can initiate scans easily and choose from various scan types. AVG excels in real-time protection, scanning files upon access and monitoring applications for unusual behavior, including ransomware protection. As of 2025, users must set their own scheduled scans. AVG offers a secure browser during installation and a data shredder feature, though its effectiveness may vary. Customer support includes online chat, phone assistance, and comprehensive support pages. AVG Internet Security has received high marks for performance, detecting 100% of threats in controlled tests while minimally impacting system resources during regular use.

Winsage

May 6, 2026

For $26, you can get lifetime licenses to Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro

A bundle is available for .99 that includes Windows 11 Pro and a lifetime license for Microsoft Office 2019, significantly reduced from the regular price of 8. This package allows users to upgrade their older PCs from Windows 10 to a supported operating system while eliminating subscription fees for Office applications. Windows 11 Pro offers advanced security features and improved usability, while Office 2019 can be installed on a single device without ongoing costs. Both licenses are tied to one device, making it suitable for enhancing a single machine.

Tech Optimizer

May 6, 2026

How Aurora Blue-Green Upgrades Cut Our Postgres Downtime by 50X

Paxos has implemented Blue-Green upgrades to improve database maintenance for asset trading, achieving a 50-fold reduction in downtime from 30-120 minutes to approximately one minute. This upgrade strategy allows for real-time synchronization between a blue cluster handling production traffic and a new green cluster with the updated version. Challenges included issues with CREATE ROLE statements disrupting upgrades due to temporary roles and the necessity to drop replication slots before PostgreSQL 17, which could lead to data loss. Additionally, upon the green cluster becoming primary, it acquires a new cluster ID, requiring updates for clients using RDS IAM authentication. The transition to PostgreSQL 17 is anticipated to resolve the need to drop logical replication slots, preserving Change Data Capture (CDC) continuity.

Tech Optimizer

May 6, 2026

Immudb Upgrade Brings Immutable Audit Trails To PostgreSQL Workloads – Open Source For You

Codenotary has released immudb 1.11, enhancing its open-source database into a comprehensive trust infrastructure layer. Key features include immutable audit logging, which allows organizations to create permanent, tamper-proof records of data and database activities, supported by cryptographic verification to prevent unauthorized alterations. The update also introduces compatibility with PostgreSQL, enabling existing applications to use immudb without modifications. Benefits for organizations include unalterable audit trails, simplified compliance and reporting, and reduced operational complexity. This release positions open source as a viable alternative to proprietary compliance and logging systems, addressing challenges in demonstrating data trustworthiness.

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

Coming to Xbox Game Pass: Forza Horizon 6, Mixtape, Subnautica 2, and More

Final Fantasy V is available on May 5 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC through Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. Forza Horizon 6 will be available on May 19 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC, with early access starting on May 15. Ben 10 Power Trip is set for May 6 on Cloud, Console, and PC. Descenders Next (Game Preview) will also be available on May 6 for Cloud, Console, and PC. Wheel World, Wildgate, and Wuchang: Fallen Feathers will be released on May 6 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Mixtape will be available on May 7 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC. Outbound is scheduled for May 11 on Cloud, Console, and PC. Black Jacket and Call of the Elder Gods will be available on May 12 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC. Elite Dangerous will be available on May 12 for Cloud and Console. DOOM: The Dark Ages will be released on May 14 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC. Subnautica 2 (Game Preview) will also be available on May 14 for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC. InKonbini: One Store. Many Stories was released on April 30 for Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC. Dead by Daylight’s Bloodbound Release Update is available now for Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Sea of Thieves: Last Ship Standing Act 3 is part of Season 19. World of Warships: Legends is available now for Cloud, Console, and PC. Titles leaving Game Pass on May 15 include Galacticare, Go Mecha Ball, Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo, Paw Patrol Rescue Wheels: Championship, and Planet of Lana.

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

Threads adds direct messaging access on desktop

Threads has rolled out its messaging feature on the desktop version of the app, allowing users to access DMs through the left sidebar. This feature aims to enhance communication on the platform and was the most requested upgrade since messaging was introduced in July. Threads Chief Connor Hayes emphasized the importance of facilitating private discussions. Initially, there were doubts about incorporating a DM feature due to Meta's strategy to unify its messaging platforms. After a legal victory, Meta shifted focus and introduced Threads DMs, allowing for new experimental features such as interactive elements and DM links.

Winsage

May 6, 2026

I saw the Windows 10 users holding out in Steam and wondered: Is this by choice, or are you priced out of PC gaming upgrades?

The April 2026 Steam survey results show that the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 with 8GB of VRAM remains the most common discrete graphics card among users. Approximately 25% of Windows users are utilizing Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program as Windows 10 nears its End-of-Life phase. The usage of Linux and macOS has slightly decreased, with Arch Linux identified as the leading distribution for Valve's SteamOS. Despite Microsoft's recommendation for 32GB of RAM, 16GB is still the most prevalent configuration among users.

Winsage

May 6, 2026

Microsoft’s Windows 11 update just fixed memory leaks, slow startup, and File Explorer bugs

Microsoft released the April 2026 optional preview update (KB5083631) for Windows 11, targeting versions 24H2 and 25H2. This update resolves the "white flash" bug in File Explorer, overhauls its codebase, and preserves user settings for View and Sort preferences. It improves the reliability of the explorer.exe process, optimizes the Delivery Optimization service to reduce memory leaks, and enhances the boot sequence for faster startup. The update lifts the FAT32 formatting limit from 32GB to 2TB. It also includes reliability improvements for the Taskbar, fixes for Microsoft Store download errors, resolves a Windows Hello fingerprint data loss issue, enhances Remote Desktop scaling, ensures color profile consistency, and improves the Fluid Dictation feature. The comprehensive improvements will be included in the mandatory Patch Tuesday update on May 12, 2026.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

The latest Rust update is an absolute nightmare for roof campers, but I welcome it with open arms

The upcoming Rust update, Upgrade Hard, Raid Harder, will be released on Thursday, May 7, at 11 am PDT / 2 pm EST / 7 pm BST / 8 pm CET. It introduces a mortar, allowing players to launch explosive projectiles from a distance, which changes the dynamics of base raids. The update also includes a rework of the Tin Can alarm, improvements to the workbench, a nerf to Deep Sea loot, and the introduction of a Boat Vendor for purchasing boat equipment. Additionally, new naval achievements will be added for players to explore.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Google Home’s latest update fixes the worst part of smart cameras

The Google Home app will receive a significant update in Spring 2026, focusing on enhanced performance and a more intuitive interface. The update will improve smart camera functionality, allowing cameras to work together for a clearer understanding of home events, and will feature a revamped event details page for easier navigation of recorded footage. Google Home Premium users will receive Gemini-generated event descriptions for older Nest cameras, and the camera settings menu will be simplified. The voice assistant will be upgraded to Gemini 3.1, improving reasoning capabilities for complex commands. Additionally, a new "Ask Home on Web" feature will enable users to manage devices and automations from their desktops. Privacy considerations regarding AI-generated summaries of home footage will also be a factor for users.