Windows Archives

Tech Optimizer

September 1, 2026

Autoscaling Lakebase Postgres

Choosing a database instance size without prior knowledge of the workload can lead to inefficiencies and excessive compute usage. Lakebase Postgres addresses this with an autoscaling feature that eliminates manual sizing, utilizing in-place VM resizing and a monitoring algorithm for CPU, memory, and working set size. Lakebase Postgres separates compute and storage layers, allowing independent resizing of compute nodes without affecting the database. The autoscaling algorithm relies on three signals: CPU load (cpuGoalCU), memory use (memGoalCU), and compute-cache working set size (lfcGoalCU). The CPU load is monitored every five seconds, aiming to maintain it at or below 90% capacity. Memory usage is tracked at two frequencies: overall memory every five seconds and Postgres-specific memory every 100 milliseconds, with a goal to keep usage below 75% of allocated RAM. The compute cache evaluates active data access efficiency, adjusting size based on workload. The working set is estimated using a modified HyperLogLog algorithm that records timestamps for page accesses, allowing for distinct page estimates over various time frames. The algorithm projects future working-set growth to allocate sufficient cache while capping it at 75% of RAM. Resizing the compute involves four components: the autoscaler-agent, vm-monitor, Kubernetes scheduler, and NeonVM. Scaling up occurs when any of the three goals indicate a need for more resources, while scaling down includes verification to ensure sufficient memory remains for operations. Timely adjustments in both directions are prioritized to minimize costs.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

Windows 11’s latest optional update finally fixes search clutter

Microsoft has released KB5120998, an optional update for Windows 11 that includes a repositionable taskbar and an improved Windows Search functionality. The update eliminates mixed results from Bing, Copilot, and MSN, prioritizes relevant results over ads, and enhances clarity in search results. It also improves the search tool's ability to handle typos and incomplete terms.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

How Enterprising Modders Installed Windows NT On Nintendo GameCubes

The resurgence of "analog" technology has led to increased interest in console modding among hobbyists. Modders have successfully integrated Windows NT 4.0 into the GameCube through the Entii for Workcubes project, which allows the operating system to run on systems from the GameCube to the Wii U. This initiative was highlighted by YouTube creator emu_kidid in February 2025, followed by contributions from Jiga Tech and Michael MJD in 2026, who demonstrated the hardware installation process. The modifications included removing the disc drive, installing a mod drive, and using an SD card disguised as a GameCube memory card. The GameCube's design facilitated these modifications, despite its lower power compared to contemporaries. Nintendo's strict anti-modding policies on newer consoles have driven modders to focus on older systems, highlighting ongoing discussions about technology ownership and game preservation.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

Microsoft extended Windows 10, but Nvidia just made the extension meaningless for gamers

Windows 10 will receive support until October 2027 under the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, with approximately 30% of PCs still operating on this system. Nvidia will stop releasing Game Ready Drivers for Windows 10 in October 2026, and from November 2026, users will not receive game-related fixes or optimizations. Security updates will remain available until at least October 2029, but the lack of patches for new bugs may affect gaming experiences. HP reports that around 30% of PCs are still running Windows 10, and the company expects these users to transition to Windows 11 or invest in new hardware. Microsoft acknowledges that the growth of Windows 11 has slowed and is focusing on enhancing its features.

Tech Optimizer

September 1, 2026

Fake Microsoft Security Scan Tells You to Remove Antivirus—Then Scammers Ask for Remote Access

A new web-based scam is using counterfeit Microsoft-branded security scans to deceive users into uninstalling their antivirus software. The scam websites conduct fake inspections, reporting false security failures and claiming third-party antivirus products are unsupported by Windows. They gather browser information to create customized-looking scan reports and aim to mislead victims into a fraudulent refund process. Investigators have identified 11 related scam sites under the name SysScan, which present themselves as legitimate Microsoft security checks. The scam does not involve file downloads but relies on convincing websites, fabricated security scores, and personal information forms. The scan results are hard-coded, and the security score is limited to a range between 13 and 30 out of 100. The scams instruct users to uninstall antivirus software, which is misleading since Windows does not cease support for third-party antivirus solutions. The scam sites request extensive personal information, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and banking details, and redirect victims to a page claiming a refund manager will call shortly. This process allows scammers to gain remote access to victims' computers. Indicators of compromise include specific IP addresses and domains associated with the scam.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

Why You Might Need to Roll Back Windows’ Latest Update

Windows 11 version KB5120998 was released as an optional update, introducing new customization features such as the ability to move and resize the taskbar and improvements to Windows Search. However, the update has introduced several bugs, including issues with the mouse cursor, which may not appear or may be incorrectly sized, and problems with wallpaper settings reverting to black after restarts. Users have also reported blurry fonts on high-resolution displays. Microsoft is aware of these issues and is working on a solution. Users experiencing these bugs can roll back the update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall and selecting KB5120998, without losing essential security patches.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

Windows 95’s taskbar didn’t come from Steve Jobs’ NeXT Dock, and a former Microsoft VP explains what did

The Windows 95 taskbar was not inspired by the NeXT Dock, as clarified by former Microsoft executives Joe Belfiore and Brad Silverberg. Instead, its design was influenced by a Microsoft project called Cairo, which aimed to provide users with easy access to information. The taskbar was created to address usability issues from Windows 3.1, specifically to help users keep track of minimized windows. In 2021, with the release of Windows 11, Microsoft introduced a centered taskbar and later allowed it to be repositioned to any edge of the screen, reflecting a commitment to user experience.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

How Enterprising Modders Installed Windows NT On Nintendo GameCubes

Console modding is experiencing a resurgence as enthusiasts enhance classic hardware, with a notable project involving the installation of Windows NT 4.0 on the GameCube. This initiative builds on previous work by Entii for Workcubes and has gained attention through videos by creators like Jiga Tech and Michael MJD. The process involves utilizing the shared PowerPC architecture of the GameCube and Wii, allowing modders to run the vintage operating system. Demonstrations of the modding process began in February 2025, showcasing the installation of a mod drive and software. Despite the challenges posed by modern gaming companies, such as Nintendo's strict anti-modding policies, these projects highlight the creativity of the modding community and the potential for innovative uses of older consoles.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

Windows bug incorrectly tells users that Microsoft Defender Antivirus is turned off

Microsoft Defender's reliability is under scrutiny due to a recent security alert that affects a wide range of Windows versions, including both Windows 11 26H1 and Windows Server 2012. Insurers will require more than verbal assurances about software performance in six months, necessitating the archiving of telemetry data, including sensor check-ins and Defender versions, by Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). The alert's impact is significant, as a single flaw in Defender can affect various systems categorized into different patch rings, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring and proactive management of security protocols.

Winsage

September 1, 2026

Microsoft Releases Two New 26H1 Builds to the Windows Insider Program

Participants in the Windows Insider Program can now install new builds in the Beta (26H1) and Experimental (26H1) channels, specifically Beta build 28020.2818 and Experimental build 28120.2824. Key updates include: - Personalization enhancements with DIB image support for desktop backgrounds and improvements to the Background settings page, including slideshow support across multiple displays. - Windows Recovery Environment (WRE) enhancements allowing automatic reuse of saved Wi-Fi profiles. - Temporary removal of the modernized Print Management experience for refinement, while traditional tools remain accessible. - File Explorer improvements that retain the state of sections on the Home page. - Magnifier user interface updates with improved icons and spacing. - Inclusion of Emoji 17.0. - Taskbar reliability improvements. - The Experimental build introduces first launch reliability for the new WinUI-based Run dialog.