Windows upgrade Archives

Winsage

February 15, 2026

Windows 11 KB5077181 fixes gaming bugs, Nvidia black screen, and performance issue affecting explorer.exe, taskbar, and Start menu

Windows 11 KB5077181 is a mandatory update that resolves up to 58 critical vulnerabilities, including a serious flaw in Windows Notepad that could allow for remote code execution. It introduces new features like an Apple Handoff-like Resume function and addresses gaming issues, particularly graphical artifacts in games such as Forza Horizon 5. The update fixes the black screen problem affecting certain Nvidia GPUs and resolves issues related to explorer.exe freezing or crashing upon login. Microsoft has confirmed that the update addresses black screen problems in isolated multiuser environments and rectifies boot failures linked to specific GPU configurations. Users can check if the update is installed by navigating to Settings > System > About, with the latest version being Build 26200.7840 or newer.

Winsage

November 13, 2025

Still on Windows 11 23H2? Microsoft will soon force you to upgrade to 25H2 – for your own good

Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 11 version 23H2 will end on November 11, 2025, meaning that Home and Pro editions will no longer receive security updates. Users are encouraged to upgrade to version 25H2 to maintain security and access new features. Devices running version 23H2 that are not managed by IT departments will receive the 25H2 update automatically, although users can postpone the update temporarily. However, users with older hardware may be unable to upgrade due to lack of support for essential instructions required for newer versions. Alternatives for those unable to upgrade include reverting to Windows 10, which has extended support until October 2026, or transitioning to Linux.

Winsage

October 18, 2025

Windows 10 end-of-support boosts global PC shipment growth

Microsoft's end-of-support deadline for Windows 10 has led to an 8.2% increase in global PC shipments in Q3 2025, surpassing 69 million units. North America saw a modest growth of 1.6% year over year due to prior inventory stockpiling. Geopolitical challenges have tempered consumer demand, with many delaying purchases. The AI PC segment is expected to grow to 31% of total shipments in 2025, up from 15% in 2024. Only 39% of surveyed enterprises reported refreshing or upgrading their PCs, and 18% plan to continue using Windows 10 beyond the deadline. The top five PC vendors—Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, and ASUS—reported increased shipments, with Lenovo achieving a 16.6% growth rate. Microsoft plans to enhance Windows 11 PCs with AI capabilities, while Apple launched a new MacBook Pro with the M5 chip for AI workflows.

Winsage

October 9, 2025

Windows 10 end of life driving sales

Hardware sales are increasing in both commercial and consumer markets as the end of support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14. Analyst reports indicate a notable rise in the European consumer PC market during the third quarter, driven by the need to upgrade before the deadline and the demand for AI-capable devices. Sales of laptops and desktops are expanding, with many devices featuring AI capabilities. Executives from Microsoft and Dell highlighted the end of life support and the rise of AI devices as key opportunities for channel partners to boost sales. Despite the impending deadline, many customers have not yet transitioned from Windows 10, presenting an opportunity for education on the importance of upgrading. The end of support poses risks such as increased cyber vulnerabilities and productivity disruptions for organizations with numerous devices. Experts suggest that businesses should focus on comprehensive technology upgrades that align with long-term goals, ensuring security, compliance, and agility.

Winsage

October 9, 2025

Global PC Shipments Surge 9.4% in Q3 2025 on Windows 10 End

Global personal computer shipments increased by 9.4% year-over-year in the third quarter of 2025, reaching nearly 76 million units, according to IDC. This growth is attributed to the impending end of support for Microsoft’s Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting upgrades to Windows 11. Corporate refresh cycles, especially in the education and enterprise sectors, are driving this demand. Regions like Asia and Japan experienced double-digit growth, while North America reported weaker results due to trade tensions and proposed tariffs. Many devices are incompatible with Windows 11, necessitating replacements. Major manufacturers like Lenovo, HP, and Dell benefited from this trend, while smaller vendors faced challenges. The transition to Windows 11 is also influencing software development and peripheral markets, with a focus on AI-integrated features. Industry insiders anticipate continued momentum into 2026, although geopolitical factors may affect growth. Critics highlight concerns about electronic waste and the potential for functional Windows 10 machines to be discarded.

Winsage

September 30, 2025

The Windows 11 upgrade wave has yet to hit healthcare

Enterprise strategies for transitioning from Windows 10 are underway, but some sectors are lagging. Lansweeper's analysis of approximately 8.5 million Windows devices indicates that the transport and logistics sector leads with 61.2% on Windows 11, while healthcare shows only 33.5% upgraded. Delays in upgrading are often due to regulatory challenges and the need for software approval. By October 14, Windows 11 adoption could reach 70% overall, but varies by industry. Unsupported Windows 10 machines will continue to function post-end date, and some organizations may delay final patches. The healthcare sector's slow adoption is concerning due to its potential impact on human lives. Additionally, support for Office 2016 and 2019 will end alongside many Windows 10 versions. Microsoft is not expected to impose significant changes soon, and future hardware requirements for Windows 12 remain uncertain.

Winsage

September 19, 2025

A major Windows upgrade that normally costs $199 is now $13

Users can upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for .97, reduced from its regular price of 9. Windows 11 Pro features a centered taskbar, improved search function, innovative snap layouts, enhanced virtual desktops, voice typing enhancements, DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming, TPM 2.0 support, Smart App Control, BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, integrated Microsoft Teams, and a new Copilot assistant. Prices on StackSocial are subject to change.

Winsage

September 15, 2025

Looming end of Windows 10 support a challenge to stragglers

Microsoft will conclude most support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ending software updates, technical assistance, and security patches. An Extended Security Updates program was introduced in July, allowing select users to extend security updates for an additional year at a cost. A December 2023 report indicated that 47% of accountants still rely on Windows 10. Many CPA firms have not upgraded their systems, with some operating on machines over five years old. Windows 11 has specific hardware requirements, including a neural processing unit (NPU) and a trusted platform module (TPM), which older devices may not meet. Delayed upgrades could lead to rising hardware costs due to supply chain disruptions and tariffs. Firms face uncertainty regarding the potential release of Windows 12, which may influence their decision to upgrade now or wait. Some firms have successfully transitioned to Windows 11, while others are advised to seek external assistance for the upgrade process.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

Windows 11 upgrade: Can I keep using my old Windows 10 license?

Users can transfer their Windows 10 license to Windows 11 at no additional cost if their hardware meets the requirements. The upgrade process is facilitated by a digital license generated during the installation of Windows 10, which is stored on Microsoft’s servers. Minor hardware changes do not affect the digital license, but a motherboard change may require the product key. Windows can be used without a valid license for a trial period of 30 days, after which certain features are restricted, and this practice is not legally compliant. If the current hardware does not meet Windows 11 specifications, users can either install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware using third-party software, upgrade their hardware, or purchase a new computer with Windows 11 pre-installed. To use an existing Windows 10 license on a new computer, users must have a retail version of Windows 10. If a digital license or product key for Windows 11 is lacking, users can purchase one from the Microsoft Store, with prices varying. To transfer the Windows 10 license, users need to locate their product key, which can be found in the purchase confirmation email or extracted using tools. Linking the product key to a Microsoft account is recommended for easier identification during installation. After installation, users can check the activation status in the Settings app, which categorizes activation into four scenarios.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

Microsoft mysteriously offers Windows 11 upgrade on incompatible PCs

The transition to Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 as a hardware prerequisite. Some users are receiving upgrade prompts for Windows 11 on devices that do not have TPM 2.0, despite Microsoft not announcing any changes to the system requirements. There are reports that some devices may have TPM 2.0 disabled, leading to confusion about the upgrade notifications. Microsoft continues to uphold the requirement for TPM 2.0 for Windows 11. Users on Windows 10 can enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of security updates.