Windows Archives

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Pirated PC games are delivering password-stealing malware

A surge in Windows malware campaigns has been identified, with malicious software hidden in pirated PC games and modified installers for popular franchises like Far Cry, Need for Speed, FIFA, and Assassin’s Creed. Over 400,000 devices globally have been affected, with around 30,000 cases in the United States. The malware, known as the "RenEngine loader," is disguised as a legitimate game launcher and infects systems when users download cracked games. It aims to deploy an infostealer called ARC, which can capture sensitive information such as passwords and cryptocurrency wallets, and may also install other harmful payloads like the Rhadamanthys stealer and Async Remote Access Trojan (RAT). Users often remain unaware of their infection until significant damage occurs. Recommendations for safety include avoiding unofficial downloads, using up-to-date anti-malware protection, and regularly updating software.

Winsage

June 8, 2026

Is Microsoft finally going to de-spam Windows 11 search? It looks that way — and I’m shocked that my most-wanted change could be incoming

Microsoft is reportedly exploring the option to disable web results in the Windows 11 search feature, allowing users to turn off web-based search results, including those from Bing. Currently, Microsoft has deprioritized web results in Windows search, focusing on local files and relevant settings. The anticipated update is expected to roll out to Windows 11 testers within weeks, aiming to provide a cleaner search experience by eliminating unwanted web results and Microsoft Store recommendations.

Winsage

June 8, 2026

Running Windows on your Mac? If you’re coding, you need this $33 Microsoft tool (MSRP $500)

Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2026 is currently available for .97 (MSRP 9.99) until June 14. It supports multiple programming languages and frameworks, integrates with Azure and GitHub, and allows for building, debugging, and testing applications for Windows, Linux, and containerized environments. Apple users can access it through virtualization software or Boot Camp. Features include Intellicode for code predictions and CodeLens for insights into code changes.

Tech Optimizer

June 8, 2026

What Is OneLaunch.exe? Pros, Cons, and How to Remove It

OneLaunch is a software application that creates a personalized dock and desktop environment on Windows computers, often pre-installed or bundled with other software. It has received mixed reviews, with concerns about system slowdowns and its legitimacy. OneLaunch.exe is a background process supporting the OneLaunch application, which provides quick access to applications and updates but can consume system resources. The OneLaunch browser, installed alongside the main application, can alter browser settings and redirect searches, potentially leading to unwanted advertisements. While OneLaunch is not classified as traditional malware, it is often categorized as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) due to its bundled installation and ability to modify system settings. It can monitor browsing habits and share data with third-party advertisers. Users report intrusive behavior, such as altering default browser settings, and it can negatively impact system performance. To remove OneLaunch, users should end the running process, uninstall the application, delete leftover folders, remove startup entries, and reset browser settings. OneLaunch may reappear due to accidental reinstallations, active browser extensions, lingering scheduled tasks, or hidden companion programs. Preventative measures include downloading from official sources, reading installation screens carefully, keeping systems updated, and performing regular system checks.

Winsage

June 8, 2026

Hands on with Intelligent Terminal, an AI-powered Windows Terminal

Microsoft has introduced an open-source version of Windows Terminal called Intelligent Terminal, which integrates artificial intelligence into the terminal environment. It functions as a built-in assistant, helping users with error explanations, command drafting, and troubleshooting within the terminal interface. Key features include an AI agent that assists when commands fail and retains memory of active and past sessions for context continuity. Upon first use, users can select their preferred AI agent, including options like GitHub Copilot, Claude, Codex, and Gemini. Intelligent Terminal allows customization with toggles for Automatic Error Detection and Automatic Error Suggestion. The interface includes an AI pane, session management capabilities, and the ability to resume previous sessions. Intelligent Terminal is available for download from the Microsoft Store or GitHub, and it is offered as a separate application rather than being included with standard Windows installations.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

Welcome to the 2026 Edition of the Windows 11 Field Guide!

The Windows 11 Field Guide has been rebranded as the Windows 11 Field Guide 2026 edition, covering all supported versions of Windows 11 (24H2, 25H2, and 26H1) and highlighting new and existing features. The guide will evolve throughout 2026, with updates requiring considerable effort and likely unfolding over several editions. Outdated content has been removed, including chapters on Mail, Calendar, Microsoft 365, Movies & TV, and the Microsoft Store. Chapters have been consolidated for clarity, with three upgrade chapters merged into one and four installation chapters also consolidated. New chapters have been added on Microsoft Paint, Notepad, Quick Machine Recovery, and account security basics. Existing chapters, such as those on Desktop and Passkeys, are being revised. The focus has shifted from assisting users transitioning from Windows 10 to supporting the over one billion Windows 11 users, with all "Where did it go?" sections eliminated. Visuals have been refined to optimize file sizes, and a new companion book, De-Enshittify Windows 11, has been created. Future editions will be year-based rather than version-based, with free updates for existing owners through the release of Windows 11 version 26H2 in late 2026. Thurrott Premium members will have complimentary access to the 2026 edition.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

Halo: Campaign Evolved Launches July 28, Pre-Orders Available Now

Halo: Campaign Evolved features a new three-mission story arc titled Operation: METEORITE, which includes Master Chief and Sgt. Johnson. The narrative takes place a year before the original game and involves a covert UNSC mission aboard a Covenant research vessel. The gameplay includes battles with UNSC forces, exploration of new locations, and encounters with new enemies like the Brute Berserker. The story was developed with sci-fi author Troy Denning. Pre-orders are available for three editions: Standard Edition (.99), Premium Edition (.99), and Collector’s Edition (9.99), each offering different bonuses. The game launches on July 28, 2026, with early access for Premium and Collector's Edition owners starting July 23. It supports cross-play and cross-progression across multiple platforms and will be available on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

4 Windows 11 tools from Build 2026 that signal what’s coming next for the OS

Microsoft announced several key updates at the Build 2026 developer conference, particularly for Windows 11: 1. Coreutils: This suite brings familiar Linux command-line utilities to Windows 11, allowing developers to use commands like ls, cp, and mkdir natively without third-party solutions. It can be installed via GitHub or the Windows Package Manager. 2. WSL Containers: This feature introduces a built-in container runtime for running Linux containers on Windows 11, eliminating the need for external platforms like Docker. It utilizes a command-line tool called "wslc.exe" and allows for OCI-compatible Linux containers. 3. Intelligent Terminal: This feature integrates AI agents into the terminal, providing context-aware assistance for developers. It can be installed via the Microsoft Store or Command Prompt. 4. Windows Developer Configurations: This configuration file for the Windows Package Manager automates the installation of essential developer tools and settings, streamlining the setup process for new development or testing machines.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

Microsoft and Nvidia are betting on AI to make old x86 Windows apps run better on next-gen RTX Spark PCs

The Microsoft Build 2026 Developer Conference will showcase new tools and frameworks aimed at enhancing developer productivity, insights into AI integration in applications, and updates on Azure services for cloud scalability. The conference will feature keynote speeches, interactive workshops on building cross-platform applications, enhancing user experience, and security best practices, as well as networking opportunities for developers to connect with peers and industry experts.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

В Windows On 11th, an official feature for disabling internet search will appear.

Microsoft is introducing new settings for Windows 11 that allow users to completely deactivate the Bing search engine within the system menu. This update addresses the issue of local files being mixed with internet search results, which has caused confusion and slowed device performance. Previously, users had to modify the system registry or use third-party tools to disable this integration. The new feature includes an official toggle in the privacy settings and will also allow users to eliminate app recommendations from Microsoft Store search. This change aims to ensure that system searches are strictly local, improving speed and reducing RAM consumption. The updates are driven by new legislative requirements in Europe for greater user choice and are expected to be available in upcoming benchmark builds.