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Security updates Windows no longer require frequent reboots
Winsage
May 6, 2026

Security updates Windows no longer require frequent reboots

Since early May 2026, a U.S. company has introduced Hotpatching technology for compatible devices, allowing security updates to be applied without a full system reboot. This technology replaces code fragments directly in the RAM of running processes, reducing the size of downloaded packages and enabling quicker implementation of critical patches. The update mechanism operates on a hybrid schedule with four base months requiring mandatory reboots for cumulative changes and eight hotpatching months focusing on in-memory security fixes. If extensive architectural changes are needed or if the software environment does not meet standards, the system defaults to a standard installation algorithm that requires a reboot. The technology is designed for corporate infrastructures with high operational demands and requires Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, specific editions, and enabled VBS virtualization protection.
I tested AVG antivirus. It's proof great AV doesn't need to be pricey
Tech Optimizer
May 6, 2026

I tested AVG antivirus. It’s proof great AV doesn’t need to be pricey

The cost of AVG Internet Security includes a single-device plan starting at a specified amount for the first year, which then increases to a higher annual fee, and a multi-device plan for up to ten devices that starts at a different amount for the first year and rises to a specified annual fee thereafter. The multi-device option allows sharing among family members. AVG Internet Security adds five features to its free antivirus: password protection, webcam safeguards, monitoring for unauthorized file access, defense against malicious website redirects, and protection against remote desktop protocol attacks. It does not include a VPN, which requires an upgrade or separate purchase. The installation process is straightforward, with a user-friendly dashboard. Users can initiate scans easily and choose from various scan types. AVG excels in real-time protection, scanning files upon access and monitoring applications for unusual behavior, including ransomware protection. As of 2025, users must set their own scheduled scans. AVG offers a secure browser during installation and a data shredder feature, though its effectiveness may vary. Customer support includes online chat, phone assistance, and comprehensive support pages. AVG Internet Security has received high marks for performance, detecting 100% of threats in controlled tests while minimally impacting system resources during regular use.
For $26, you can get lifetime licenses to Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro
Winsage
May 6, 2026

For $26, you can get lifetime licenses to Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro

A bundle is available for .99 that includes Windows 11 Pro and a lifetime license for Microsoft Office 2019, significantly reduced from the regular price of 8. This package allows users to upgrade their older PCs from Windows 10 to a supported operating system while eliminating subscription fees for Office applications. Windows 11 Pro offers advanced security features and improved usability, while Office 2019 can be installed on a single device without ongoing costs. Both licenses are tied to one device, making it suitable for enhancing a single machine.
Android Apps Get Public Verification System to Stop Supply Chain Attacks
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Android Apps Get Public Verification System to Stop Supply Chain Attacks

Google has launched an enhanced Binary Transparency initiative for Android to strengthen the ecosystem against supply chain attacks. This initiative builds on the Pixel Binary Transparency framework introduced in October 2021, which ensures Pixel devices operate on verified OS software through a public cryptographic log of factory images. The new initiative aims to address the increasing sophistication of binary supply chain attacks, emphasizing that a binary's digital signature alone is insufficient for guaranteeing its authenticity. Starting May 1, 2026, all production Android applications released by Google will include a cryptographic entry confirming their authenticity. This initiative covers various Google applications and provides a transparent 'Source of Truth' for users to verify the software on their devices. Google is also offering verification tools for users and researchers to confirm the transparency state of supported software types, enhancing user privacy and security.
A rigged game: ScarCruft compromises gaming platform in a supply-chain attack
BetaBeacon
May 6, 2026

A rigged game: ScarCruft compromises gaming platform in a supply-chain attack

- ScarCruft, also known as APT37 or Reaper, is a North Korean espionage group targeting government, military organizations, and companies in Asia. - BirdCall is a Windows backdoor attributed to ScarCruft, with spying capabilities such as taking screenshots and logging keystrokes. - The Android version of BirdCall collects contacts, SMS messages, call logs, and media files, and was actively developed over several months. - The BirdCall backdoor was discovered in a trojanized card game on a gaming platform tailored for ethnic Koreans living in Yanbian, China. - The attack was likely aimed at collecting information on individuals from the Yanbian region deemed of interest to the North Korean regime, such as refugees or defectors.
Microsoft enables Hotpatching by default: Windows updates without restarts become a reality
Winsage
May 6, 2026

Microsoft enables Hotpatching by default: Windows updates without restarts become a reality

Beginning in May 2026, Microsoft will introduce Hotpatching as a default feature for compatible systems, allowing security updates to be applied without requiring a restart. Hotpatching updates code directly in the memory of running processes, enabling selective updates without interrupting the entire system. It does not replace monthly security updates but alters their activation process on eligible systems, categorized as security updates within the monthly B releases. Eligible systems must be running Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer and possess suitable licenses such as Enterprise, Education, Microsoft 365, or Windows 365. Management of these updates will be facilitated through Windows Autopatch or Microsoft Intune. Microsoft will continue to utilize baseline updates that require a restart, which will alternate with Hotpatch months. Hotpatching aims to reduce the frequency of restarts tied to security updates, particularly benefiting environments where uptime is critical. However, planned restarts will still be necessary, and robust telemetry and maintenance practices will be needed to ensure smooth operation.
I saw the Windows 10 users holding out in Steam and wondered: Is this by choice, or are you priced out of PC gaming upgrades?
Winsage
May 6, 2026

I saw the Windows 10 users holding out in Steam and wondered: Is this by choice, or are you priced out of PC gaming upgrades?

The April 2026 Steam survey results show that the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 with 8GB of VRAM remains the most common discrete graphics card among users. Approximately 25% of Windows users are utilizing Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program as Windows 10 nears its End-of-Life phase. The usage of Linux and macOS has slightly decreased, with Arch Linux identified as the leading distribution for Valve's SteamOS. Despite Microsoft's recommendation for 32GB of RAM, 16GB is still the most prevalent configuration among users.
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