x86

Tech Optimizer
February 11, 2026
MicroWorld Technologies confirmed a breach of its eScan antivirus update infrastructure, allowing attackers to deliver a malicious downloader to enterprise and consumer systems. Unauthorized access was detected, leading to the isolation of affected update servers for over eight hours. A patch was released to revert the changes made by the malicious update, and impacted organizations were advised to contact MicroWorld for assistance. The attack occurred on January 20, 2026, when a compromised update was distributed within a two-hour window. The malicious payload, introduced through a rogue "Reload.exe" file, hindered eScan's functionality, blocked updates, and contacted an external server for additional payloads. This rogue executable was signed with a fake digital signature and employed techniques to evade detection. It also included an AMSI bypass capability and assessed whether to deliver further payloads based on the presence of security solutions. The malicious "CONSCTLX.exe" altered the last update time of eScan to create a false sense of normalcy. The attack primarily targeted machines in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines, highlighting the rarity and seriousness of supply chain attacks through antivirus products.
AppWizard
January 29, 2026
Smartphones can function as desktop replacements, exemplified by the Steam Deck and the introduction of Local Desktop, which allows users to install a full Arch Linux environment on Android devices. Users can run applications like VS Code and Firefox by connecting a keyboard, with installation taking about ten minutes and not requiring root access. However, the installation process may require multiple attempts for stability due to various errors. Once set up, users can enhance their experience with the yay package manager, although some applications may not perform optimally. Local Desktop operates by installing an Arch Linux ARM64 filesystem within the app's internal storage and using proot to create a chroot-like environment. The display mechanism employs a minimal Wayland compositor for improved responsiveness. While it offers a portable Linux environment, performance can vary, and it is not suited for heavy workloads. The experience may appeal to tech enthusiasts willing to navigate its challenges.
Winsage
January 27, 2026
Many users have experienced issues with their modems after installing the January 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 (KB5074109), which removed several legacy modem drivers, including agrsm64.sys (x64), agrsm.sys (x86), smserl64.sys (x64), and smserial.sys (x86). This removal has rendered many modems inoperable. Users have reported frustrations, with some restoring functionality by uninstalling the update. Microsoft has stated that the removal of these drivers was necessary to address security vulnerabilities, but this has not alleviated user dissatisfaction. Many users are left with limited options and are advised to uninstall the update and pause future updates while awaiting new drivers from manufacturers.
Winsage
January 26, 2026
Microsoft has launched an ARM-compatible version of its Xbox App, enhancing the gaming ecosystem for ARM-based Windows 11 devices. Over 85% of the current Game Pass library is functional on ARM systems, although full compatibility remains exclusive to x86-based systems. Gamers can access unsupported titles through Xbox Cloud Gaming. Microsoft’s Prism emulation layer allows native x86 and x64 applications to run on ARM PCs, with recent updates improving Game Pass compatibility. Popular titles like Gears of War: Reloaded and Fortnite now support ARM. This development encourages innovation from companies like Nvidia and Qualcomm, while the gap in game compatibility between ARM and x86 architectures is closing. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D is highlighted as a top choice for building or upgrading gaming PCs.
Winsage
January 26, 2026
Windows 7 and Vista are set to make a comeback in 2026, with modder Bob Pony creating ready-to-install ISO files for both operating systems. The Windows 7 x86 ISO includes updates until October 2024 and requires a CPU that supports SSE2 instructions. Microsoft has a program called Premium Assurance that provides security updates for legacy systems like Windows Vista for up to six years. However, Microsoft has officially ceased support for both Windows 7 and Vista, raising security concerns for users. Running these operating systems in a virtual machine is suggested as a safer alternative. The renewed interest in older systems is partly due to dissatisfaction with Windows 11, which has faced issues like unbootable PCs and stringent hardware requirements.
AppWizard
January 22, 2026
Microsoft's Xbox app on Windows 11 now supports game downloads on all ARM-based PCs, expanding functionality beyond cloud gaming for Qualcomm-powered devices. This update follows an initial rollout for Xbox Insiders in August, coinciding with Epic Games' compatibility of its Easy Anti-Cheat system with Windows on ARM. The Prism emulator was updated in December to support more x86 games on ARM devices, and the Xbox app now includes a Windows Performance Fit feature to assess game performance based on hardware. Over 85% of the Game Pass catalog is compatible with ARM PCs, with ongoing efforts to increase support. Emulation performance has improved on Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series chips, with further enhancements expected from upcoming X2 series chips, although native ARM64 game versions are still anticipated.
Winsage
January 21, 2026
Windows 11 has made significant advancements in gaming, particularly for Arm-based devices. The Xbox app is now available on all Arm-based Windows 11 PCs, with over 85% of the Game Pass catalog compatible. Xbox Cloud Gaming offers an alternative for unsupported titles. The introduction of Prism allows x86/x64 software to run on Arm, supporting AVX and AVX2 for modern games. Epic Anti-Cheat support has enabled popular games like Gears of War: Reloaded and Fortnite on these devices. The Windows Performance Fit feature helps players choose games based on their hardware capabilities. Ongoing collaborations aim to enhance catalog compatibility and improve the gaming experience on various Windows 11 devices. Player feedback is shaping updates and new titles for Arm-based Windows 11 PCs.
Winsage
January 20, 2026
Microsoft's Raymond Chen discussed the "Shift during Restart" trick in Windows 95, which allowed users to bypass a lengthy reboot process. This was achieved by sending the EW_RESTARTWINDOWS flag to the 16-bit ExitWindows function, leading to a series of shutdowns involving the 16-bit Windows kernel and the 32-bit virtual memory manager. The CPU would then revert to real mode, allowing win.com to take control and initiate protected-mode Windows. Chen explained that .com files are allocated all available conventional memory upon launch, which can be returned to the system. Win.com efficiently releases excess memory, but if another program occupies that space, memory fragmentation can occur, preventing win.com from restoring the system and resulting in a full reboot. This engineering solution provided a smoother user experience, contrasting with modern Windows users who face disruptive update notifications.
AppWizard
January 20, 2026
Valve is set to launch the Steam Machine, which aims to redefine gaming standards despite not being optimized for true 4K gaming. Its pricing is uncertain due to fluctuating RAM costs. The Steam Machine offers limited upgradability, allowing modifications to RAM and storage but featuring a fixed CPU. Games with the “Steam Deck Verified” badge will be compatible with the Steam Machine, while the “Verified” status is essential for developers to ensure visibility in the Steam store. The Steam Machine operates on Linux-based SteamOS, providing flexibility for users to customize their experience. Valve's approach focuses on making Steam more accessible rather than competing directly with console sales. The Steam Deck has sold over 4 million units, but the Steam Machine could inspire future hardware that merges gaming systems.
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