Windows computers Archives

Winsage

June 30, 2026

Microsoft Reveals Windows Setting to Safely Remove USB Drives and Prevent Data Loss

Removing a USB drive from a port without using the “safely remove” option is generally acceptable on many Windows computers, depending on the policy for the external device. Microsoft provides two main options for removable drives: quick removal and better performance. Under the quick removal policy, users can disconnect the device without the “Safely Remove Hardware” process, although this may reduce system performance. Since Windows 10 version 1809, quick removal has been the default policy for external devices. However, users must ensure that all operations, such as copying or formatting, are completed before removal. The better performance policy requires users to use the safe removal option to prevent data loss, as it allows write caching. Failing to do so increases the risk of data loss if the drive is disconnected while Windows is still processing writes. The highest risk of data loss occurs when the drive is removed while Windows or an application is engaged in file operations. The safe removal icon serves as a confirmation that the drive is not in use, helping to prevent accidental ejection during active processes. Users can check the flash drive policy by accessing the device properties in Disk Management. The chosen setting may persist upon reconnection to the same computer port, leading to different experiences for users with similar drives. To minimize data loss, it is recommended to wait for operations to finish and use safe removal when uncertain about the drive's status.

Winsage

June 15, 2026

Windows 11’s June update makes PCs feel faster. Here’s what’s new

On Patch Tuesday in June 2026, Microsoft released a significant update for Windows 11, designated as KB5094126. Key enhancements include: - Low Latency Profile: Boosts CPU clock speeds temporarily for specific tasks, reducing lag during operations. - Simultaneous Webcam Access: Allows multiple applications to use the webcam simultaneously. - Shared Audio: Enables two users to connect headphones to one PC for shared audio enjoyment. - NPU Usage Monitoring: Task Manager displays Neural Processing Unit usage for individual processes, with new columns for NPU and NPU Engine. - Enhanced Windows Search: Users can locate files with just two characters instead of three. The update also introduces new Secure Boot certificates for improved security. After installation, Windows 11 build numbers will show either 26200.8655 (25H2) or 26100.8655 (24H2). Updates are rolled out gradually, so some users may experience delays in accessing features.

Winsage

June 11, 2026

Microsoft fixes BitLocker recovery bug on Windows Server 2025

Microsoft has resolved an issue affecting certain Windows Server 2025 devices that were booting into BitLocker recovery mode after the April 2026 security update. This issue was linked to specific BitLocker Group Policy configurations and required users to input their BitLocker recovery key upon the first restart after the update. However, this key would only need to be entered once for subsequent restarts, provided the group policy configuration remained unchanged. The problem primarily affected enterprise systems rather than personal devices. The issue arose under specific conditions: BitLocker was enabled on the operating system drive, a particular Group Policy was set, the Secure Boot State PCR7 Binding was "Not Possible," the Windows UEFI CA 2023 certificate was present, and the device was not already using the 2023-signed Windows Boot Manager. Microsoft released fixes in the KB5094125 and KB5093998 updates to address this problem, preventing devices with incompatible group policy configurations from installing the 2023-signed Windows Boot Manager. Event ID 1032 in the System event log indicates the issue when Windows updates are installed. For IT administrators unable to deploy the latest updates, it is recommended to remove the Group Policy configuration before installing updates or to implement a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) on affected devices. Additionally, Microsoft had previously addressed similar BitLocker recovery issues in August 2024 and May 2025.

Tech Optimizer

June 8, 2026

What Is OneLaunch.exe? Pros, Cons, and How to Remove It

OneLaunch is a software application that creates a personalized dock and desktop environment on Windows computers, often pre-installed or bundled with other software. It has received mixed reviews, with concerns about system slowdowns and its legitimacy. OneLaunch.exe is a background process supporting the OneLaunch application, which provides quick access to applications and updates but can consume system resources. The OneLaunch browser, installed alongside the main application, can alter browser settings and redirect searches, potentially leading to unwanted advertisements. While OneLaunch is not classified as traditional malware, it is often categorized as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) due to its bundled installation and ability to modify system settings. It can monitor browsing habits and share data with third-party advertisers. Users report intrusive behavior, such as altering default browser settings, and it can negatively impact system performance. To remove OneLaunch, users should end the running process, uninstall the application, delete leftover folders, remove startup entries, and reset browser settings. OneLaunch may reappear due to accidental reinstallations, active browser extensions, lingering scheduled tasks, or hidden companion programs. Preventative measures include downloading from official sources, reading installation screens carefully, keeping systems updated, and performing regular system checks.

Winsage

June 1, 2026

‘Something new is coming’: Nvidia-powered Windows PC to reportedly debut this week after Microsoft, Windows, and Arm’s ‘new era of PC’ social media teaser

An Nvidia-powered Windows PC is set to launch this week, with teasers from Microsoft, Nvidia, and Arm Holdings suggesting a new era of personal computing. The launch is expected to occur at the Computex trade show in Taiwan and Microsoft’s Build developer conference in San Francisco. Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows, hinted at new developments for developers that are not related to a new OS version. Microsoft plans to introduce software that allows users to deploy AI agents for local tasks on Windows machines. Nvidia is reportedly developing CPUs for Windows devices using technology from Arm Holdings to compete with Intel. Nvidia previously had a presence in the PC market, as seen with the Microsoft Surface RT tablets that used Nvidia’s Tegra 3 ARM processor in 2012.

Winsage

May 31, 2026

First Windows PCs powered by Nvidia chips expected next week: Report

Nvidia is set to reveal its first Windows computers powered by its own chips at the Computex trade show in Taiwan and Microsoft’s Build developer conference in San Francisco. The initial models are expected to come from Microsoft’s Surface brand and Dell. Alongside the hardware launch, Microsoft plans to introduce software to simplify AI operations on Windows machines. Nvidia has been working to enter the PC processor market, previously known for its graphics chips. Microsoft aims to realign Windows with AI, following challenges with its initial AI PC initiative, Copilot+ PC. The company is now focusing on AI agents for local PCs and has established a team called OpenClaw for this purpose. Nvidia's entry into the PC market could benefit both itself and Microsoft, as well as Qualcomm, which has struggled to gain a significant share of the PC market despite its advantages.

Winsage

May 30, 2026

Scoop: First Windows PCs powered by Nvidia chips to debut next week

Nvidia will unveil its first Windows computers featuring its chips as primary processors next week. The collaboration between Nvidia and Microsoft will be showcased at the Computex trade show in Taiwan and Microsoft's Build developer conference in San Francisco. Nvidia-powered PCs are expected from Microsoft's Surface brand and other manufacturers, including Dell. Microsoft will also introduce software for local AI agent operations on Windows computers. Nvidia has been eyeing the PC processor market, and its entry could benefit itself, Microsoft, and rivals like Qualcomm.

Winsage

May 28, 2026

Windows 11 can now share audio to two Bluetooth headsets at once

Microsoft has introduced a new feature called "Shared Audio" for Windows 11, allowing two Bluetooth headsets to share audio simultaneously. This feature utilizes Bluetooth LE Audio technology, enabling two users to connect their Bluetooth audio devices to a single Windows PC and enjoy the same audio stream while independently adjusting the volume. The rollout of this feature is gradual, and users may not see it immediately after installing the optional update KB5089573. Compatibility requires both the PC and connected audio devices to support audio broadcasting. Additionally, the update includes an enhancement known as the Low Latency Profile to improve performance on Windows 11 devices.

Tech Optimizer

May 27, 2026

WHAT THE TECH? Smartphone anti-virus

Antivirus software is not a necessity for most smartphone users, as the nature of threats has evolved. iPhones isolate apps from the core system, making traditional antivirus scans ineffective; threats mainly come from scams like phishing links and deceptive messages. Android devices allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware from unofficial sources. The primary dangers for users include phishing texts, fake login pages, scam calls, and social engineering tactics. To enhance security, users should keep their operating systems updated, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid suspicious links, and refrain from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be beneficial in specific situations, such as frequent link clicking or downloading from unfamiliar sites, with reputable options available for added protection against scams and unsafe websites.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

What the Tech? Antivirus protection for your smartphone

Most users do not require an antivirus app on their smartphones, as the predominant threats are scams such as phishing texts and fraudulent websites rather than traditional viruses. iPhones operate on a design that isolates apps, limiting the effectiveness of antivirus software, while Android devices allow sideloading, which can increase the risk of malware. The real danger lies in deception tactics used by cybercriminals, making personal account security more important than antivirus software. To enhance security, users should keep their operating systems updated, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid suspicious links, and refrain from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be beneficial for users who frequently click on unverified links, download files from unfamiliar sites, or engage in Android sideloading. Reputable security apps focus on scam detection and web protection rather than traditional virus scanning.