Windows functionality Archives

Winsage

April 12, 2025

Microsoft: Windows ‘inetpub’ folder created by security fix, don’t delete

Microsoft has acknowledged that the April 2025 Windows security update creates a new, empty "inetpub" folder on user systems, advising against its deletion. This folder is associated with Internet Information Services (IIS) but appears even on systems without IIS installed. The folder is created using the SYSTEM account, and while deleting it does not disrupt Windows functionality, Microsoft emphasizes it should remain untouched. The existence of the C:inetpub directory prior to the update may cause installation failures of the cumulative updates. Microsoft has updated its advisory regarding a security vulnerability (CVE-2025-21204) related to improper link resolution within the Windows Update Stack, warning that exploitation could allow local attackers to escalate permissions. Users can recreate the C:inetpub folder by installing IIS through the Windows Features control panel, and uninstalling IIS will remove the software but leave the folder intact.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

ReactOS, an Open Source Take on Windows

ReactOS is an open-source operating system designed to be compatible with Windows, aiming to recreate the Windows experience while ensuring compatibility with existing software applications. The first stable release occurred in 2011, followed by a beta version in 2013 that improved support for 64-bit systems. By 2020, ReactOS reached a Technical Alpha milestone, indicating progress in stability and performance. The latest version resembles the outdated Windows XP interface, which may appeal to some users but lacks modern functionality. The ReactOS Application Manager allows users to install applications, but many popular software versions are outdated or incompatible. Users are advised to use the Application Manager for installations, as external downloads can lead to issues. ReactOS appeals to Windows users reluctant to switch to Linux or invest in new hardware, but it remains a work in progress with bugs and limited application support. The project invites contributions to enhance the user interface and application compatibility.

Winsage

March 25, 2025

5 Windows tools and apps you can’t find on other operating systems

Certain features remain exclusive to the Windows operating system, offering unique functionalities not available on Mac or Linux. Microsoft has developed tools like PowerToys, which includes nearly 20 utilities enhancing Windows functionality, and Windows Sandbox, providing a secure environment for testing applications. Windows Notepad serves as a basic note-taking and coding app with features like spellcheck and autocorrect. The Snipping Tool allows users to capture screenshots and extract text from images, while the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) enables seamless access to both Windows and Linux environments. These tools are designed to enhance productivity and provide significant advantages for Windows users.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

Microsoft: Recent Windows updates make USB printers print random text

Microsoft has acknowledged an issue affecting certain USB printers after the installation of Windows updates since late January 2025, impacting users on Windows 10 (version 22H2) and Windows 11 (versions 22H2 and 23H2). The latest Windows 11 version 24H2 is unaffected. Users may experience unexpected behavior with dual-mode printers using USB Print and IPP Over USB protocols, leading to random text and data being printed, including network commands. This issue arises from the interaction between the print spooler and the printer driver. Microsoft has implemented a solution through its Known Issue Rollback (KIR) feature, which will be automatically rolled out in an upcoming update. IT administrators are advised to install specific group policies to address the issue. Additionally, Microsoft lifted a compatibility hold for some AutoCAD users upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 due to previous launch and crash issues.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Freeing Windows

Several projects have emerged as alternatives to Windows, including ReactOS, which aims to provide a free and open-source operating system. Wine allows users to run Windows applications on other platforms. Recently, Free95 was introduced, licensed under GPL-3.0, capable of running simple Windows programs, with plans for enhanced compatibility. Free95 is still in its early stages and seeks contributors on GitHub. Currently, Free95 does not pass the "Does it run Doom?" test, indicating significant challenges ahead in replicating Windows functionality. As virtualization technology improves, the need for lightweight alternatives like Free95 may decrease, although they could still benefit users with aging hardware.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

AltTab is an essential Mac app for Windows users

Transitioning from a Windows PC to a Mac can be challenging due to differences in application and window management. macOS uses a streamlined approach with its dock and task switcher (Command + Tab), which can confuse new users as it displays only one instance of each app. A recommended solution is the AltTab application, which allows users to press Option + Tab to view all open windows for any application, similar to Windows functionality. AltTab also includes a Quit button for exiting applications completely. It is available for free and helps ease the transition to macOS.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Samsung DeX for Windows is dead

Samsung will phase out support for its DeX for Windows application with the release of the One UI 7 software update in 2025. Users are encouraged to transition to the Phone Link feature as an alternative. DeX for Windows allowed users to connect smartphones to PCs, creating a Samsung DeX interface, while Phone Link enables users to project their smartphone interface onto a computer screen and run applications remotely. The transition is part of the collaboration between Samsung and Microsoft. The discontinuation of DeX for Windows may be due to low user adoption rates, and DeX will still be available for compatibility with TVs and monitors.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2 get KB5046732 with File Explorer, Start menu improvements, and more

The latest non-security update for Windows 11, designated as KB5046732, is available for users on versions 23H2 and 22H2 (Enterprise and Education editions), with build numbers 22621.4541 and 22631.4541. This update introduces several new features and fixes: - The feature formerly known as Tailored Experiences is now called Personalized Offers, accessible via Settings > Privacy & Security. - The system tray now shows a shortened date and time, and clicking on it allows access to notifications. - The search box appears as an icon when the taskbar is set to auto-hide. - The IME toolbar automatically hides in full-screen mode when typing in Chinese or Japanese. - Right-clicking pinned apps in the Start menu reveals jump lists. - Users can share content directly to an Android device from File Explorer if Phone Link is configured. - Fixed excessive space between items in the left pane of File Explorer and the search box being cut off in smaller windows. - A new section for touchscreen edge gestures allows disabling left or right screen edge touch gestures. - Users can turn off enhanced mouse pointer precision and adjust scrolling direction in mouse settings. - A placeholder message appears in the Dynamic Lighting Settings Page when no compatible device is connected, with brightness and effects controls turned off. - The Wave effect in Dynamic Lighting now includes additional directional options. - Holding Shift and CTRL while clicking a jump list item opens it with administrative privileges.

Winsage

October 11, 2024

Typical Microsoft! Disabling Windows Recall is Breaking File Explorer

Microsoft introduced an AI-powered feature called Recall, which captures and catalogs snapshots of a user's screen in a scrollable timeline. Initially intended to be disabled by default, it is now enabled automatically with the 24H2 release across all PCs. Disabling Recall disrupts important functionality in the Windows operating system, particularly affecting the new File Explorer with multi-tab functionality, which relies on Recall and Copilot. Users have reported that creating a Windows Pro 24H2 ISO using MicroWin results in a downgrade of File Explorer. A workaround has been devised to disable Recall components after user login while keeping them intact.