Windows support Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

WebDevPro #90: GSAP Goes Free, PostgreSQL 18 Beta Launches, Node 24 Overhauls Windows Support

The integration of system design principles in software development is increasingly critical, influenced by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in development workflows. The demand for programmers who can quickly write code is diminishing, with organizations seeking individuals who possess a strong understanding of programming fundamentals and can oversee AI-generated outputs. Developers are now expected to leverage AI to enhance their work and maintain quality by recognizing when AI is not performing optimally. A holistic view of software architecture is encouraged, emphasizing collaboration and the importance of each code contribution to the overall project. The industry is shifting away from evaluating candidates based solely on syntax proficiency and coding speed, recognizing the value of strategic thinking and architectural awareness in developers.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

The latest Windows 11 update did not end support for older Intel chips. Here’s the source of the confusion.

Windows 11 has stringent minimum requirements, leaving many PCs unable to upgrade. A Microsoft support document caused confusion by excluding several Intel 8th, 9th, and 10th Gen processors, leading to speculation about their support status. However, there are no new devices being produced with processors older than Intel's 11th Generation, so the changes are unlikely to affect many users. Even if a PC has an unsupported processor, it may still upgrade to Windows 11 if it meets other minimum requirements. The document is intended for OEMs to determine which processors can be used in new devices and does not impact existing Windows support for consumers. The list of Intel 8th, 9th, and 10th Gen chips eligible for upgrading remains unchanged, and devices must comply with all minimum requirements, including TPM 2.0. Recent updates were misreported, primarily affecting OEMs without requiring significant changes to their strategies.

Winsage

December 2, 2024

Microsoft details how to install Windows 11 on unsupported PC not meeting requirements

Microsoft is urging users to transition from Windows 10 as its end of support approaches, promoting Windows 11 through advertisements and articles. Users on unsupported systems can upgrade to Windows 11 by signing a waiver, but they are warned about potential compatibility issues and lack of support. Microsoft has updated its support page with clearer disclaimers and introduced a shortcut link for accessing the Recovery menu. A step-by-step guide is provided for reverting to Windows 10 within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11. Users with older processors lacking support for specific instructions cannot upgrade to Windows 11.

Winsage

December 2, 2024

Microsoft details how to install Windows 11 on unsupported PC not meeting requirements

Microsoft has begun displaying banners on its Windows support pages urging users to transition away from Windows 10 due to the impending end of support for the operating system. The company has released a video advertisement promoting the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11 and published an article debunking myths about the upgrade process. For users on older, unsupported systems, Microsoft is encouraging the purchase of new PCs but is also allowing users on unsupported PCs to upgrade to Windows 11 by signing a waiver that acknowledges potential risks. Microsoft updated a support page with clearer guidance for installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices and revised the disclaimer to inform users about the implications of proceeding with the installation. Additionally, a shortcut link to the Recovery menu has been introduced, along with a detailed step-by-step guide for reverting to Windows 10 on unsupported devices. The Go back option is only available for 10 days following an upgrade to Windows 11. Users with particularly old processors lacking support for certain instructions may have no options for upgrading.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Meta Quest 3 will get better Windows support in December

Microsoft will introduce Windows in mixed reality in December, allowing users to access Windows 11 on Meta's Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets. This feature enables seamless connection to local Windows PCs or Windows 365 Cloud PCs, with public preview starting next month. The integration was first announced at Meta Connect 2022, and while Windows will not run directly on the headset, it will be streamed from a local PC or cloud. Meta recently showcased a feature that extends Windows 11 laptop screens to digital displays on Quest headsets. Initially, the preview will support only Quest 3 and Quest 3S, with potential future compatibility for more headsets.

Winsage

November 11, 2024

Support for Windows Mail, Calendar and People apps will finish at the end of this year as new Outlook elbows its way onto the center stage

Support for Windows Mail, Calendar, and People apps will cease on December 31, 2024. Starting January 1, 2025, users will be unable to send or receive emails through these apps, but they can export existing emails, events, and contacts to the new Outlook. The new Outlook offers advanced AI features, a consolidated view of email accounts, and enhanced security measures. Users can currently toggle between the new Outlook and the traditional Outlook interface, but the future of this option is uncertain. Some users have reported issues with the transition process, including unresponsive buttons. Many users are turning to third-party applications or web-based services as Microsoft encourages them to adapt to the new Outlook experience.

Winsage

November 9, 2024

Alt + Tab trouble: Windows 11’s 24H2 update turns time-saving shortcut into ten-second headache

The Windows 11 24H2 update, released on October 1, 2024, has caused issues with the Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut, leading to black screens or freezes for some users. Microsoft is aware of the problem and plans to release a patch in December 2024. Users have suggested workarounds, such as disabling Game Mode, delaying the update, or reverting to a previous version of Windows 11.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

Windows 11 24H2 breaks popular Alt + Tab shortcut. Here’s what you can do

Keyboard shortcuts, particularly Alt + Tab, have been disrupted by an update to Windows 11 24H2, causing users to experience freezes or black screens for about ten seconds. This issue has been reported by multiple users on platforms like Reddit and Windows support forums. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and plans to release a patch in December 2024. Users affected by this issue are advised to delay updating to Windows 11 24H2 or consider disabling Game Mode as a temporary fix. If the problem persists, reverting to a previous version of Windows 11 may be necessary.

Winsage

August 22, 2024

Microsoft confirms plans to kill Windows Control Panel… eventually – Liliputing

Microsoft Windows has relied on the Control Panel since its introduction in 1985, but is transitioning to the Settings app, first launched in Windows 8 in 2012. The Control Panel is being deprecated in favor of the Settings app, which is being updated to include more features from the Control Panel. Despite this transition, certain functionalities remain exclusive to the Control Panel, which will continue to exist for compatibility reasons. Microsoft encourages users to adopt the Settings app, indicating a future where the Control Panel may no longer be necessary.

Winsage

August 13, 2024

Windows 11 Patch Tuesday update out now for 23H2, 22H2 (KB5041585), and 21H2 (KB5041592)

Microsoft has released Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11 versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2, identified as KB5041585 for 23H2 and 22H2, and KB5041592 for 21H2. Users will be on build versions 22621.4037, 22631.4037, and 22000.3147 after installation. The Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 22H2, will reach end of service on October 8, 2024, after which they will only receive security updates. Enterprise and Education editions will continue to receive support. The updates address security vulnerabilities and include various improvements, such as enhancements to BitLocker, lock screen functionality, and Secure Boot Advanced Targeting. The servicing stack updates for each version enhance the installation process for future updates. All editions of Windows 11, version 21H2, will also reach end of service on October 8, 2024. Known issues include a BitLocker recovery screen and an error when changing user account profile pictures in version 21H2. The updates are available via Windows Update and the Microsoft Catalog website.