Windows support Archives

Winsage

April 28, 2026

FinalWire releases AIDA64 8.30 with FPS tracking and next-gen CPU support, but drops 32-bit Windows support

FinalWire has released AIDA64 version 8.30, featuring the AIDA FPS module for real-time FPS data capture in DirectX 11 and 12 games, available exclusively in the Extreme edition. The update includes an optimized performance test for APX SHA3 for Intel Diamond Rapids and Nova Lake processors, support for Turing 4.6 and 12.3-inch LCD displays, compatibility with Intel Core Ultra 250K Plus and 270K Plus, enhanced support for Intel Wildcat Lake and Nova Lake processors, preliminary support for AMD Zen 6 architecture APUs, support for Aqua Computer Ampinel and Thermal Grizzly WireView Pro II sensors, extended support for Adaptec RAID controllers, USB-NVMe pass-through support for Realtek RTL9220 controllers, support for EXPO 1.2 memory profiles, and detailed GPU information for Intel Arc Pro B65 and B70 as well as NVIDIA RTX Pro 4500 Blackwell Server Edition. The update enhances support for Intel's Nova Lake CPUs and introduces a new SHA3 benchmark optimized for APX architectures. It also lays groundwork for support of AMD's upcoming Zen 6 Medusa Point mobile processors and introduces support for AMD's EXPO 1.2 technology. AIDA64 version 8.30 discontinues support for 32-bit Windows and Windows XP x64, requiring users on those platforms to revert to an earlier version. The new web-based AIDA64 SensorPanel Tools allows users to create image sets for SensorPanel Manager. The update is available across the Extreme, Engineer, Business, and Network Audit editions.

Tech Optimizer

April 13, 2026

Fake Windows 11 support site offers ‘update’ that steals data and evades antiviruses

Malwarebytes has discovered a counterfeit Windows support site offering a fake "cumulative update" for Windows 11 24H2. Users who click the "Download Update" button download an 83MB package designed to compromise sensitive information, including passwords and payment details. The file, named WindowsUpdate 1.0.0.msi, falsely lists Microsoft as the author and is created using WiX Toolset 4.0.0.5512. VirusTotal reported zero detections for the main executable and VBS launcher, highlighting the malware's architecture designed to evade detection. The malicious website's address includes "microsoft-update.support," differing from the legitimate support site. Malwarebytes has added the malicious site to its detection service database.

Winsage

April 9, 2026

This fake Windows support website delivers password-stealing malware

A phishing campaign has been identified that uses a counterfeit Microsoft support website, microsoft-update[.]support, to trick users into downloading a malicious Windows update disguised as WindowsUpdate 1.0.0.msi. This file, created on April 4, 2026, appears legitimate but contains malware designed to steal sensitive information. The campaign targets French-speaking users, leveraging recent data breaches in France to create convincing scams. The malware, once executed, installs an Electron application that runs a Python interpreter, which then deploys various data theft tools. It employs two persistence mechanisms: modifying the Windows registry and creating a shortcut in the Startup folder. The malware connects to external sites for reconnaissance and data exfiltration, using domains like datawebsync-lvmv.onrender[.]com and store8.gofile[.]io. The malware's components have evaded detection by antivirus tools, with VirusTotal reporting zero detections for the main executable and its launcher. Users are advised to check their registry, remove suspicious files, change passwords, and run a full system scan if they suspect installation of the malicious update. Safe updating practices include using the built-in Windows update feature and being cautious of phishing attempts. Indicators of compromise include specific file hashes, domains associated with the phishing campaign, and file system artifacts related to the malware's installation.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

Microsoft extends security patching for three Windows products at a price

Support for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB will end on October 13, 2026, while Windows Server 2016 will reach its end of support on January 12, 2027. Organizations using these products will receive one final monthly security update on the specified dates, after which they will not receive security patches, updates, or technical support. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allows organizations to purchase coverage for up to three years beyond the end of support, with pricing starting at a specified amount per device for the first year and doubling for each subsequent year. Windows Server 2016's ESU pricing has not been announced, and Microsoft recommends upgrading to newer Long-Term Servicing Channel releases. In the European Economic Area, Windows 10 users can access ESU until October 14, 2026, without payment or cloud account requirements due to advocacy from Euroconsumers.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

Support for Windows Server 2016 is coming to an end

Microsoft has announced the end of support for several Windows products launched in 2016, including Windows Server 2016, Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB, and Windows IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016. Windows Server 2016 has been in the extended support phase since January 2022, with security updates available until January 12, 2027. Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB and Windows IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 will reach the end of their extended support on October 13, 2026. Microsoft offers the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for these products, allowing critical security updates for a fee, with costs for Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB set to increase annually per device. ESU will also be available for Windows Server 2016, but pricing details are not yet released. Windows IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 will receive extended support through hardware manufacturers, with terms and costs varying by supplier. Microsoft emphasizes that using unsupported software increases risks and that migrating to a newer version of Windows is the only long-term solution.

Winsage

November 1, 2025

AMD’s latest Adrenalin driver update drops Windows 10 from release notes, but the company says support continues

AMD's Adrenalin Edition 25.10.2 driver update has placed the Radeon RX 5000 and RX 6000 graphics cards into "maintenance mode," but these GPUs will continue to receive day-zero game support and essential driver updates. AMD clarified that Windows 10 is still fully supported, despite initial confusion from the release notes that emphasized compatibility with Windows 11. The omission of Windows 10 in the release notes led to concerns, which AMD addressed by confirming ongoing support for the older operating system.

Winsage

October 11, 2025

Lenovo leads PC market as Windows 10 deadline drives upgrades

Lenovo led the global PC market in the third quarter of 2025, shipping 19.4 million units and achieving a 25.5% market share, reflecting a 17.3% growth from the previous year. Total global PC shipments reached 75.9 million units, marking a 9.4% increase. HP shipped 15 million units (19.8% market share), and Dell shipped 10.1 million units (13.3% market share). Apple and Asus shipped 6.8 million and 5.9 million units, respectively. The North American market faces challenges due to US import tariffs and macroeconomic uncertainties, while Asia Pacific, particularly Japan, experienced growth driven by hardware refresh initiatives related to the end of Windows 10 support. Demand for PCs is largely influenced by lifecycle management as organizations prepare for the end of Windows 10 support on October 13.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Steam Confirms End of Support for 32-bit Windows OS in 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026, Steam will cease support for 32-bit versions of Windows, currently only supported on Windows 10, which is used by 0.01% of users. Windows 10 64-bit will continue to receive full support, and 32-bit games will still function on the platform. Existing installations of the Steam Client on 32-bit systems will remain operational but will not receive updates or security patches. Steam Support will not assist users with technical issues related to outdated operating systems, and future versions of Steam will only operate on 64-bit Windows. Users are advised to upgrade to a 64-bit version of Windows for continued access to updates and compatibility.

Winsage

September 7, 2025

End of Windows 10 support: Acer Aspire Go 15 may be a cheap alternative for some

The Acer Aspire Go 15 is priced under 0 and offers a straightforward upgrade from previous models, particularly in performance, with faster loading times for websites and applications due to the latest Wi-Fi standards and a reasonably up-to-date Intel processor. It outperforms its predecessor in benchmark comparisons. Users may still find value in older models like the Tecra, which include features such as an optional DVD drive and a built-in card reader, but these can be supplemented with affordable docking stations. Additionally, old laptops can be donated to organizations like Labdoo.org for refurbishment and use in educational institutions, provided that data is securely removed beforehand.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

“Browse Securely Now”: Microsoft Stock (NASDAQ:MSFT) Gains as it Calls Users to Pass Up Chrome

Microsoft is encouraging users to switch from Google’s Chrome browser to its Edge browser by displaying messages that promote Edge's security features. This strategy has resulted in a slight increase in Microsoft's stock price. Users installing Chrome now see a message stating, “Browse securely now. Microsoft Edge runs on the same technology as Chrome, with the added trust of Microsoft.” Additionally, pre-release versions of Microsoft’s Canary browser include taskbar flags that prompt users to pin Edge when closing Chrome, with one flag suggesting to pin Edge if Chrome usage exceeds 90%. A class action lawsuit is pending against Microsoft for withdrawing security support for Windows 10. Despite challenges in Windows support, Microsoft has confirmed ongoing support for popular games like Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon 5. Analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating for MSFT stock, with 34 Buy ratings and one Hold in the past three months, and an average price target suggesting an 18% upside potential for investors.