Windows PCs Archives

Winsage

April 15, 2026

Mega Upgrade for Windows 11! Storage Suddenly Much Larger

Microsoft has lifted the FAT32 file system's volume limit in a recent preview version of Windows 11, allowing users to format storage devices with capacities of up to 2 terabytes, an increase from the previous maximum of 32 gigabytes. This change addresses a long-standing limitation that has existed since 1996. Additionally, Microsoft is enhancing the partition tool in Windows 11, improving its speed and responsiveness for managing multiple partitions. These updates are currently being tested in the Windows Insider Program, with no confirmed timeline for broader availability.

Winsage

April 8, 2026

I might have a reason to press my Copilot key as this absurd Windows 11 app adds some comic relief: “I can’t stop laughing”

Microsoft has announced plans for new Windows PCs that will include a dedicated Copilot key, marking a significant change to the Windows keyboard in 30 years. The option to remap this key in Windows 11 has been temporarily suspended to prevent bugs. The developer community has created a utility called NoCopilotKey to revert the key to its original function as the right-side CTRL key. Additionally, an app called TypeFart produces humorous sounds with keystrokes but does not allow users to assign unique sounds to specific keys. Microsoft has clarified that outdated language in Copilot's terms of use, which suggested it was for entertainment purposes only, will be updated to reflect its current capabilities. The company is also working on improvements for Windows 11, including the return of the movable Taskbar and better integration of Copilot.

Winsage

April 8, 2026

Google shares simple fix for millions of Windows 10 users

Google, in collaboration with refurbished electronics retailer Back Market, is offering a USB memory stick that allows users to install ChromeOS Flex for free, providing an alternative to Windows 10 and addressing the end of support for the operating system. The ChromeOS Flex USB Kit simplifies the installation process and aims to extend the lifespan of aging PCs, potentially preventing millions of functioning devices from being discarded. As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft ceased all support for Windows 10, leaving vulnerabilities unaddressed. Approximately one-third of Windows devices still run on Windows 10, and users can opt for an additional year of updates at a cost of around £22. ChromeOS Flex has lower system requirements than Windows 11 but lacks features like Android app installation. It helps ensure security updates for existing devices and contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing electronic waste and carbon emissions associated with new device manufacturing. The physical kit is priced at around €3 and is reusable.

Winsage

April 7, 2026

“This was not opportunistic. It was precision.” — How North Korean hackers used Microsoft Teams and Slack to compromise Windows PCs with an elaborate ploy

On March 30, 2026, axios, a JavaScript HTTP client library, was temporarily compromised by suspected North Korean hackers who hijacked maintainer Jason Saayman's account. This allowed them to publish two malicious versions of axios on npm. The malicious versions were identified and removed within three hours by StepSecurity. A post-mortem blog on GitHub provided security measures for users of Windows, macOS, and Linux, highlighting risks from a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) introduced during the breach. The attack was attributed to a group known as UNC1069, which has been active since at least 2018. Two weeks prior to the breach, Saayman was targeted in a social engineering campaign where attackers posed as a legitimate company founder, leading him to install the RAT via a fake update during a Microsoft Teams meeting. Microsoft Teams was not compromised; it was used as a delivery method for the Trojan. Saayman noted the operation's sophistication.

Winsage

April 6, 2026

ResokerRAT Hijacks Telegram API to Command Infected Windows PCs

A newly discovered Windows malware called ResokerRAT uses Telegram’s Bot API for its command-and-control operations, allowing it to monitor and manipulate infected systems without a conventional server. It obscures its communications by integrating with legitimate Telegram traffic, complicating detection. Upon execution, it creates a mutex to ensure only one instance runs and checks for debuggers to avoid analysis. It attempts to relaunch with elevated privileges and logs failures to its operator. ResokerRAT terminates known monitoring tools and installs a global keyboard hook to obstruct defensive key combinations. It operates through text-based commands sent via Telegram, allowing it to check processes, take screenshots, and modify system settings to evade detection. Persistence is achieved by adding itself to startup and altering UAC settings. The malware retrieves additional payloads from specified URLs and uses URL-encoded data for communication. Researchers have confirmed its Telegram traffic, and its behavior aligns with various MITRE ATT&CK techniques. Security teams are advised to monitor for unusual Telegram traffic and scrutinize registry keys related to startup and UAC.

Winsage

April 6, 2026

Linux gaming reaches 5.3% on Steam, Windows drops below 93%

The Linux gaming market share among Steam users has reached 5.3%, a historic high, coinciding with Windows usage dropping below 93%. Windows 10 usage has decreased by nearly 15%, while Windows 11 has gained only 10.6%. SteamOS Holo 64-bit is the leading Linux distribution, making up 25% of all Linux users, largely due to the popularity of the Steam Deck. macOS has gained 1.2% market share, indicating a shift in gaming preferences. Valve announced plans to expand SteamOS to desktop PCs, which may further boost Linux gaming adoption.

Winsage

April 4, 2026

7 Ways to Fix Limbus Company Not Launching on a Windows PC

Limbus Company, an indie gacha game, is experiencing technical issues on Windows PCs, with players unable to launch the game. Troubleshooting steps include: 1. Running the game as an administrator by navigating to the installation folder and adjusting properties. 2. Verifying the integrity of game files through Steam. 3. Disconnecting unnecessary USB devices. 4. Performing a clean boot to disable conflicting startup applications. 5. Updating graphics card drivers for compatibility. 6. Disabling integrated Intel GPUs in Device Manager to ensure the use of dedicated graphics cards. 7. Reinstalling the game on a solid-state drive (SSD) for better performance. Players can also contact the game's support service for further assistance.

Winsage

April 2, 2026

Windows Security App Gains Secure Boot Certificate Status Ahead of Major Certificate Refresh

The Secure Boot certificates used by the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) on Windows PCs will expire in late June 2026. Microsoft is rolling out updated certificates through Windows Update to ensure user protection. Starting in April 2026, users can check their device's status in the Windows Security app, which will feature a color-coded badge system: - Green Checkmark: New certificates are installed, no action needed. - Yellow Caution Badge: Update pending or blocked due to hardware/firmware issues (expected in May 2026). - Red Stop Icon: Alerts users that older certificates are expiring, potentially preventing essential boot-level security updates (may appear as early as June 2026). The status will also be indicated in the Windows Security system tray icon. Most users will have a seamless update process by keeping Windows Update enabled, with devices from 2025 and many from 2024 covered. Older machines will receive updates gradually, guided by major OEMs. Microsoft advises against ignoring yellow or red warnings, as devices without updated certificates may be vulnerable to security threats and incompatible with future Windows updates. A support resource is available at aka.ms/getsecureboot.

Tech Optimizer

March 31, 2026

Best Antivirus Software That Won’t Slow Down Your Computer

Laptops are essential tools that carry sensitive data, making security crucial. Public networks and unsecured Wi-Fi can expose this data to threats. Antivirus software protects laptops by detecting threats, blocking malware, and removing infections. The best antivirus solutions operate quietly in the background without affecting system performance. Top antivirus software includes: - Bitdefender: Strong malware detection, real-time scanning, minimal system impact; some features are exclusive to higher subscriptions. - Surfshark One: Combines antivirus protection with a VPN; lacks some advanced features. - Norton: Comprehensive suite with various security tools; higher renewal fees after the first year. - Avast: Lightweight protection with extra tools; limited features in the free version. Key features to look for in antivirus software include strong malware detection, real-time monitoring, phishing filters, and compatibility across devices. Performance varies, with some tools consuming more resources than others. Users should be cautious of renewal terms and additional features that may not be necessary. Common mistakes after installing antivirus include assuming complete protection, neglecting subscription monitoring, and risky online behaviors. When switching antivirus software, users should properly remove the old software and manage subscriptions to avoid unnecessary costs. Regular updates are essential for effective protection, and free antivirus tools may lack advanced features. Antivirus effectiveness can vary by device, and some products may slow down older devices. Monitoring update status and active features is crucial for verifying antivirus functionality.

Winsage

March 28, 2026

Windows PCs Crash 3x More Than Macs, Data Confirms

Windows devices experience forced shutdowns 3.1 times more frequently than Macs, crash 2.2 times more often, and have application freezes 7.5 times more than macOS. Each disruption costs nearly 24 minutes of refocus time. macOS updates are deployed 1.5 times faster than Windows updates due to a centralized deployment model. Apple’s M-series processors operate at 40.1°C, while Intel chips run at 65.2°C, leading to less thermal stress and longer lifespan for Macs. Only 2% of Windows machines last beyond six years, compared to 11.5% of Macs. 90% of Windows devices are replaced within three years, while enterprise Macs tend to last around five years.