Microsoft's newfound dedication to improving Windows 11 in 2026 is something I love to see, but there's a growing issue I've noticed that doesn't get a lot of mainstream attention.

I want to take you back in time for a moment, back to when Windows 11 updates were delivered in a compact package measuring a few hundred megabytes or less.

Yes, I know, it's hard to believe. But when Windows 11 first launched in 2021 with version 21H2, its subsequent updates didn't take long to download or deploy.

I'm not basing this solely on memory. Windows 11's entire update history starting in October 2021 is listed on Microsoft's website. And although the official Release Information page doesn't include the size of the download, it's easy to cross-reference the list with Microsoft's separate Update Catalog.

Here's a look at a handful of random Windows 11 21H2 updates and their sizes from 2021, 2022, and 2023.

The final update that Windows 11 21H2 received on October 8, 2024, came in at 511.9 MB.

Windows 11 22H2 updates kicked things off in 2022 with a 239.4 MB update, but by 2025, its last update had ballooned to roughly 1 GB.

👉 How to protect your PC from buggy Windows 11 updates with restore points, Quick Machine Recovery, and full backups

When Windows 11 23H2 arrived in October 2023, updates were frequently arriving somewhere between 500 MB and 1 GB. This version's most recent update, as of April 14, 2026, arrived at just more than 1 GB.

Windows 11's version 24H2 is about when Microsoft really got serious about AI, and the update was a significant refresh that the company viewed as somewhat of a reset.

Although the updates began in 2024 with sizes around 1 GB, the latest update, as of April 30, 2026, weighs in at a whopping 5.1 GB. It's the same for version 25H2's latest update from the same day.

Why are Windows updates so big in 2026?

For comparison's sake, I put together another table with some randomly picked Windows 11 x64 updates from the current 25H2 era.

As I mentioned above, the most recent Windows 11 25H2 update from April 30, 2026, measures 5.1 GB. It's been a steady climb ever since 25H2 launched, and I don't know if there's a ceiling.

So, what exactly is causing this Windows update scope creep? Rather than shipping a bunch of smaller patches, the company now prefers to deliver larger cumulative updates containing everything from security features to general upgrades.

These platform releases now last longer, and because 25H2 is built on 24H2, that's a couple of years of cumulative updates all rolled up into one package. While this helps ensure that more users are on the same level, it contributes to the bloated update size.

The new Windows 11 26H1 version only arrived in February 2026, and because it doesn't carry the same 24H2/25H2 baggage, it comes in at around 3 GB as of April 30, 2026.

That's still fairly large, but that's what leads me to the AI factor.

How is AI affecting the size of Windows updates?

Although Windows updates might arrive as a 5 GB download, your hard drive isn't necessarily eating that much space every time your PC updates. Or ... that's sort of the case.

The size of an update listed on Microsoft's website isn't necessarily what your PC receives. Because Microsoft intelligently checks exactly what your specific system needs, your results vary each time a download is pushed.

👉 10 interesting facts about Windows 11 version 25H2

For example, if you're using a Copilot+ PC with an NPU, your update will include several gigabytes of AI model data that's used for core tools like Semantic Search.

This is evident once you crack open an update manually (via OutofOfficeHours). A host of .msix files attempt to install utilities like PSTokenizer, Text Recognition Session, PSOnyxRuntime, Query Processor Session, and Image Search Session, all fundamentals for Semantic Search.

Windows 11 26H1 is designed specifically for PCs using Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 SoCs, which are all, of course, Copilot+ PCs with NPUs that can take advantage of advanced AI features like Semantic Search.

That at least partly explains why the updates remain at around 3 GB even though they don't carry the same cumulative baggage as 25H2.

👉 I dug into the new Windows Update rules coming to Windows 11, and these are the 5 things you need to know

In other cases, required AI data for components in apps like Paint and Photos is downloaded separately and on demand, only once you start using those specific features. This, in my opinion, is the right approach for the non-core Windows AI features.

So, yes, AI is contributing to the growing size of Windows updates, but it's not the boogeyman you expect. I did reach out to Microsoft for some clarification surrounding update delivery practices, but the company refused to comment.

Is the Windows Central community on board with the size of Windows updates?

The massive size of modern Windows updates isn't quite what it seems. Your specific PC might not receive the full package based on its AI capabilities or what update data already exists, and I do applaud Microsoft's approach in that respect.

But one thing remains true: AI is contributing to some of the bloat, especially if you have a Copilot+ PC.

👉 Microsoft’s Insider overhaul finally gives us a simpler path, but I had to dig in to understand what really changes next

I want to know what you think. Could this approach eventually get out of hand for Microsoft as it continues to add more core AI features like Semantic Search?

Do you foresee other problems? What did you think about Microsoft's more efficient Checkpoint CU approach that seems to have been mothballed? Let me know in the comments section below!

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft and NVIDIA have together turned me into someone I no longer recognize. Months of chaotic Windows 11 patches and NVIDIA GPU driver issues have resulted in me disabling automatic updates and ignoring new patches on my gaming PC.

I know, I know; it's not exactly a controversial take. Despite some security concerns, many PC users do the same, and have done so for a very long time. Why fix something that isn't broken?

What's really getting under my skin lately is the fact that the companies that are supposed to be improving the products they sold me are consistently introducing problems that get in the way of a smooth experience.

I'm talking about two of the most valuable companies in the world: Microsoft and NVIDIA. I should be able to leave automatic updates enabled and not worry about what they're going to do to my PC.

Why has the quality of Windows and NVIDIA updates declined so rapidly?

Is the decline in update quality due to AI taking over coding duties? No idea, but Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has boasted that up to 30% of Microsoft code is written by AI. Is it because NVIDIA's RTX drivers have become way more complicated with all of the new features? I honestly can't say.

What I do know is that trust in these companies to deliver a stable update is eroding quickly. In the past year or so, Windows 11 has received several broken updates that required an emergency patch.

Most recently on the Windows frontier, there was Windows 11's KB5077181 February update that caused installation failures and several other issues, including those related to NVIDIA GPUs. In January, Windows 11 update KB5078127 was introduced in an emergency out-of-band capacity to address issues with cloud services. I could go on.

On NVIDIA's side, GeForce driver 595.71, released just a couple of days ago, introduced GPU overclocking issues. Right before that, GeForce driver 595.59 broke hardware monitoring, which resulted in GPU fans not spinning properly. Again, I could go on.

How am I handling Windows and NVIDIA updates on my gaming PC?

In my case, NVIDIA driver updates were the first to be disabled on my gaming PC. Sure, I might miss out on some launch drivers for specific games, but I can handle those on a per-game basis. I don't play that many games right when they launch, anyway.

For Windows 11, I've kept updates enabled, but they're on a two-week delay so that I can ensure there's not going to be any unforeseen problems right after they go out.

Until Microsoft and NVIDIA can once again prove that the updates they're pushing out can be trusted, I'll be keeping new versions at arm's length from my gaming PC.

How are you handling updates on your gaming PC?

I know my move to stop allowing automatic updates on my gaming PC isn't exactly controversial. I know a lot of gamers do the same already; please speak up if that's you.

Are you also frustrated that it's basically the only option now that upgrade quality has declined so much? Do you disagree with my take? Please let me know in the comments section!

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

I’ll preface this by saying I generally tend to hold off on Windows updates. Honestly, it feels like so many do these days, especially given the somewhat muddied reputation around Windows Update and whatever issue the next might introduce.

In my case, one update caused my Xbox Ally X handheld to get stuck in recovery mode. The only way out was a Cloud Restore, which ended up taking over 12 hours, despite being connected to a solid internet connection. I have Gigabit internet and was even connected via a cable over Ethernet, yet the process still dragged on.

The whole ordeal really highlighted just how much work Xbox still has to do for the Xbox PC experience. While I recently wrote about being optimistic regarding the future of Xbox, moments like this make me feel a lot less confident and, more than anything else, simply frustrated.

An expensive work in progress

I’ve written before about my frustrations with the Xbox Ally X. At times, it feels unfinished, awkward, and less like a console, and more like a console-ish if you squint hard enough. That said, I have actually enjoyed my time with the device.

Whether it’s using it at night or just jumping in casually here and there, it is genuinely great hardware that is unfortunately dragged down by an awkward user experience and, well, Windows 11.

Windows remains a sore spot for a lot of people. It simply is not the OS many want it to be, even though Windows 11 adoption continues to grow. This whole experience almost pushed me to install Bazzite full-time out of spite on my Xbox Ally X.

The user experience there is generally better, but even that still does not feel quite as console-like as I would want from a device like this. As frustrating as these Windows 11 issues can be, I am heavily invested in the Xbox ecosystem and would miss access to Game Pass. That said, if there is another price hike, I will probably stop that service entirely.

So what actually happened?

Now this is where I’m honestly just a bit stumped. I updated my handheld because I wanted to move on to an Insider build to try the Highlight Reels feature that was recently shown off. Now, to avoid any confusion, no, I was not updating to the Insider build when this happened; I was just planning to after installing the latest updates.

Now my plan was to test Highlight Reels and maybe cover it here with some deeper impressions, especially with Elden Ring (after buying the game). Mainly because that game specifically isn't even available through the Xbox App and only runs through Steam.

Anyway, I made sure my Xbox Ally X was fully updated, restarted the device, and then I was letting the device restart and apply the update, and was suddenly hit with the message, “Your device ran into a problem and couldn’t be repaired.”

What actually caused the issue is still unknown to me. That said, this would not be the first time an update has broken something on the Xbox Ally X, with Armory Crate being a victim just a couple of months ago.

From what I could gather while troubleshooting, it seems the Windows update may have corrupted boot files or other system files, preventing Windows 11 from launching properly.

It's this kind of experience that worries me about the future of Xbox being built around a PC. If I cannot install a simple Windows 11 update without ending up wiping my entire device because the update failed, then what hope is there for a stable user experience in the next generation of Xbox?

What Xbox could be doing next generation is genuinely exciting. At the same time, that excitement comes with a heavy dose of caution.

Right now, I struggle to see Microsoft successfully pulling off an ambitious Xbox PC without first going back to the drawing board and fixing the underlying Windows experience.

🗨️ Have you experienced any issues with a Windows handheld?

I am still a bit bewildered by the issues I had with the Xbox Ally X, but I digress. Let me know if it has all been smooth sailing with your Windows handheld ventures, or, if, like me, you have been an unfortunate victim of Windows 11.

Let us know in the comments, and make sure to reach out to us over on Reddit!

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Microsoft cannot seem to catch a break lately. After a recent Windows update prevented some users from shutting down their PCs, the company is now being blamed for PC gaming issues as well.

NVIDIA has pointed the finger at Microsoft over reported performance problems affecting games on NVIDIA GPUs (via WindowsLatest). According to reports from users and comments from NVIDIA staff, the issues appear to be linked to a Windows update released in January.

Let’s go over just what was, who said it, and what it means for Windows users dealing with the issue.

What NVIDIA is saying about the Windows update

NVIDIA staff have confirmed on its forums that it is actively investigating the issue. According to the company, January update KB5074109 appears to be the root cause, and uninstalling it does seem to resolve the problem for affected users.

I have also been running into issues since updating my own PC today, including unusual graphical behavior on my monitor and generally slower performance (Windows be damned!).

As far as NVIDIA can tell, the issues are not linked to graphics drivers, and many users are reporting dropped frames of up to 20fps, as well as graphical issues. NVIDIA has stressed that its investigation is still ongoing.

For those experiencing these problems, you can either try installing the latest updates from Microsoft or rolling back KB5074109 and pausing Windows Updates temporarily.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu
2. Search Settings and open it.
3. Go to Windows Update.
4. Select Update history.
5. Choose Uninstall updates and remove KB5074109

This is intended as a temporary workaround until a permanent fix is made available.

Microsoft is also working on fixing the woes of last month’s disastrous update, rolling out updates addressing users' concerns, and they have recently committed to ensuring Windows is a better OS overall, and rolling back on some of their AI pushes as of late, after the company lost over $400 billion in market cap, mind you.

NVIDIA pointing to a Windows Update as the source of gaming instability puts the spotlight squarely back on Microsoft’s patching pipeline. Windows is the backbone of PC gaming, and when an update disrupts performance, it ripples across the entire ecosystem. Until Microsoft addresses what went wrong here, players and partners alike are left wondering how a routine patch turned into yet another avoidable setback.

Have you been affected by the January Windows update? Share your experience and let us know in the comments and make sure you take part in our poll below:

In what feels like yet another stumble for Microsoft, Windows 10 finds itself caught in an awkward limbo. The operating system was meant to have reached the end of full support, and at a consumer level, that did happen back in October 2025.

However, several versions of Windows 10 remain under extended support for a fee. Windows 10 is now being affected by the same shutdown bug that has also been frustrating Windows 11 users.

This is not a legacy issue being quietly left behind. It is the result of ongoing security updates being pushed to supported Windows 10 builds, even as Microsoft continues to roll out unstable updates across its wider Windows ecosystem. Never fear, though. Microsoft has recently backtracked on several recent decisions and has promised a renewed focus on Windows stability going forward.

Why Windows 10 is still getting broken updates

It now seems that, despite Microsoft’s push to move users toward Windows 11, Windows 10 is still feeling the strain of modern Windows updates. In a recent update last month, Microsoft confirmed that some Windows 10 systems are also failing to shut down properly, the same issue plaguing Windows 11 users.

What makes the situation particularly irritating for those on Extended Security Updates. ESU access is limited to paying customers and users in the European Economic Area, meaning some are paying specifically for stability and security, only to encounter a bug this fundamental.

As reported on by PC World, affected versions currently include:

• Windows 10 22H2
• Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019
• Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021
• Windows 11 23H2

The cause of the problem appears to be linked to the System Guard Secure Launch, which is meant to protect your PC from threats during startup, before turning off after startup, however, it is staying active, preventing computers from shutting down.

According to PC World, Virtual Secure Mode also plays a role here, and as of right now there is currently no known fix for the issue, but Microsoft are aware and working on a fix.

I’m genuinely impressed by how consistently Microsoft manages to stumble like this. As someone who has long supported the company and its products, it is becoming harder to ignore the missteps.

Even the parts of Microsoft I still actively enjoy, like Xbox, are increasingly soured by questionable decisions made at a company-wide level.

Have you been affected by the Windows shutdown bug on Windows 10 or Windows 11? Let us know in the comments and make sure to take part in our poll below:

In a new post, Xbox explains how it has been working with the Windows team and ASUS to respond to player feedback on the Xbox Ally, from small quality-of-life fixes to larger feature requests.

The post also confirms that Default Game Profiles are available today for Insiders, giving players a way to reduce manual tweaking by automatically balancing frame rate and power use.

Right now, you have to adjust TDP and FPS limits manually for each game. Default Game Profiles are designed to cut down on that work and make the handheld easier to use. The update also improves input response, library loading, cloud gaming performance, and several other parts of the experience.

A full breakdown of what to expect

Default Game Profiles are a new preview feature that automatically sets a power target and FPS cap for each supported game. The profiles only apply when the Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X is running on battery power, and are meant to reduce how often players need to adjust TDP or frame limits by hand.

When a supported game starts, the system applies a profile that increases power if the game is struggling to reach its target frame rate. This trades some battery life for smoother gameplay. The feature is currently available in 40 games during testing, and you can toggle it on or off in the Armoury Crate Command Centre.

The current list of first-party games includes:

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
• Call of Duty: Warzone
• DOOM Eternal
• DOOM: The Dark Ages
• Forza Horizon 5
• Gears 5
• Gears of War: Reloaded
• Gears Tactics
• Halo: The Master Chief Collection
• Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
• Minecraft
• Sea of Thieves
• Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4

The update also improves gamepad response after logging in, which is something I have noticed on the Xbox Ally X, as inputs can take a moment to register. Loading large game libraries should now be faster as well.

Xbox mentions improvements to the Cloud Gaming page, with quicker loading and smoother navigation. There is also a new option to filter games by performance fit, showing how well each title is expected to run on the device. The update includes general bug fixes and performance improvements, too.

How to get the update right now

Default Game Profiles are available today through the Windows Insider Program. You need to enroll if you want to try new features before they roll out to everyone.

Before you start, make sure your handheld is fully updated to the latest Windows 11 build.

How to join the Windows Insider Program on the Xbox Ally:

1. On your Xbox Ally, go to Windows Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Ensure that you’re sending Optional Diagnostic Data, it will tell you if you aren’t .
4. Select Windows Insider Program and follow the instructions.
5. You'll be prompted to restart.
6. Go back to Windows Update after restarting.
7. Select Check for Updates.

Once you've downloaded and installed the update, you should be able to try out the Default Game Profiles feature.

If you give it a whirl, drop into the comments below and let us know what you think!

As reported on and discovered by WindowsLatest. If you’ve ever hit update and shut down on your PC, walked away feeling productive, and then later found your system still sitting at the login screen like nothing happened, you’re not alone. It turns out this wasn’t user error or a misclick. It was a real Windows issue that has been lingering for years across both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

In the latest Windows 11 25H2 Build 26200.7019, or 26100.7019 on 24H2 and newer updates, Microsoft has finally fixed it. For me, it goes all the way back to Windows 10, where I’d head out after hitting update and shut down, only to come home to a PC humming away hours later. It always left me questioning whether I pressed the wrong option.

Good news: we weren’t losing our minds. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and corrected it. From here on out, update and shut down should actually shut down, just like it always should have.

What caused the “Update and shut down” bug

As WindowsLatest haven't had confirmation on what was happening from Microsoft, they do have their own theory as to what could of happened.

Typically Windows updates normally happen in a couple of stages. First, the OS installs anything it can while you are still logged in. Then it needs to reboot into a special update mode to replace the files that Windows cannot touch while it is running. That is the phase where your screen shows progress messages and your PC feels briefly out of your hands.

Once that internal housekeeping finishes, Windows is supposed to act on whatever choice you made. If you selected update and shut down, it should close everything down and power off. Instead, Windows sometimes treated that request as a normal restart and brought you back to the login screen. For years, many people assumed they mis-clicked or imagined it, but it turns out the system simply was not holding onto the shutdown instruction correctly.

Microsoft has now corrected the behavior in the latest Windows 11 builds. The fix first appeared in the optional KB5067036 update for version 24H2 and 25H2, and it is included for everyone in the November Patch Tuesday release. After installing the update, update and shut down finally behaves like a true shutdown rather than a clever disguise for restart.

If you want to be certain you have the fix, open Settings, check for updates, and make sure your system is running Build 26100.7019 or higher on 24H2, or Build 26200.7019 or higher on 25H2. Once you are on those builds, Windows will respect your choice and turn the machine off properly instead of pretending it did you a favour by rebooting.

FAQ

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft released the Windows 11 cumulative update KB5066835. It was intended to deliver security fixes and stability improvements, but instead introduced a serious problem. The update broke localhost functionality for many users, causing major disruption for developers who rely on local testing every day.

Reported on by TechPowerUp, the update broke localhost connections, which use the 127.0.0.1 or localhost address and are essential for testing websites, apps, and APIs on a local machine. After the update, browsers could no longer load anything running on localhost, and local projects stopped responding entirely.

Localhost is a loopback network address that essentially allows a PC to communicate with itself. It is used by developers to run and test websites or applications locally before pushing them online. It also powers common development tools like Visual Studio, MySQL, PostgreSQL servers, and Docker.

This does not affect everyday users who only browse the web or use normal apps. It is a serious problem for developers, though, because localhost is central to coding, debugging, and testing work.

The root cause has been traced to HTTP.sys, a low-level Windows networking component that handles HTTP and HTTPS connections behind the scenes. The update changed how HTTP.sys processes loopback traffic, which caused local connections to fail or reset.

Microsoft has confirmed the issue and has deployed a fix. However, the community did find a workaround to resolve the issue before Microsoft pushed a patch. Uninstalling the KB5066835 update restores localhost functionality. Some users also had to remove the September preview update KB5065789 if both updates were installed. It’s also worth noting that some users are still reporting the issue.

There is a trade-off. Removing the update also removes recent security patches, so users need to decide whether to wait for an official fix or uninstall the update to continue working.

Another Windows update headache, and a familiar pattern is forming

Windows updates breaking things is not a rare occurrence, and localhost failing is not an isolated incident. Updates have been causing noticeable issues recently, especially for power users, developers, and IT admins. Maybe it is recency bias, and we are more aware of problems now that the perception of Microsoft is lower than ever. However, it does feel like Windows is breaking more often than it should.

Microsoft recently broke the Windows Recovery Environment, which made USB keyboards and mice unusable during system recovery. It had to push out an urgent fix to stop users from being locked out of their own systems.

Another update accidentally broke the Windows Media Creation Tool, which people rely on to install or repair Windows. That issue surfaced just a day before Windows 10 reached the end of its support.

With Windows 10 now officially discontinued as of October 14, 2025, Windows 11 is the only operating system Microsoft offers. The timing is not great. A growing number of users are already frustrated, and the recent spike in problems sets a worrying tone for the future of Windows.

Maybe it is a general sense of doom surrounding Microsoft lately, especially with criticism aimed at the direction of Windows and Xbox. Or maybe it is something else. Satya Nadella has said that 30 percent of Microsoft’s code is written with the help of AI. If true, I hope that code is still being reviewed by real engineers and not pushed straight into live builds without proper testing.

Microsoft needs to restore trust in Windows updates

This is part of a wider problem. Confidence in Windows updates is falling. More people than ever are seemingly delaying updates out of fear that something important will break, and that mentality goes directly against Microsoft’s own security advice. If people feel safer avoiding updates, something has gone wrong.

For developers, this is more than an inconvenience. Localhost is a core part of the workflow. It should never break from a standard security update. With Windows 10 now officially retired, Windows 11 cannot afford to feel unstable or unpredictable, especially when Microsoft wants developers to stay invested in the platform.

The end of Windows 10 might not hurt so bad if Microsoft would quit breaking crucial elements of Windows 11. This time, it's the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) that's been knocked out of commission in Windows 11's KB5066835 build rolled out on October 14, 2025 (via Tom's Hardware).

Users attempting to navigate the WinRE on the latest Windows 11 25H2 update with a USB mouse and keyboard will quickly find that neither work as intended And by that, I mean not at all. Microsoft has flagged the bug as a confirmed issue in the update's release health notes, but so far there is no official solution.

In the meantime, it seems like wireless and older PS/2 accessories will continue to function normally.

The WinRE is a crucial part of Windows that allows users to troubleshoot a PC, offering up repair, reset, restore, firmware, image recovery, terminal, and more options. It's what shows up when a PC fails to boot properly, so it's not like it's something that's tucked away that few users will experience.

With this buggy Windows 11 update dropping on October 14 — the same day as Windows 10's End-of-Life date — many of those who just migrated to the newer OS likely got a rude welcome. Microsoft says the fresh WinRE glitch is affecting Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, as well as Windows Server 2025.

Bugs and glitches are, of course, a natural part of any operating system, never mind one as complex and diverse as Windows. However, you'd think that Microsoft would be paying extra attention to the quality of its Windows 11 updates as it simultaneously ended support for hundreds of millions of Windows 10 users.

This isn't the only bug to crawl out from under the Windows 11 KB5066835 update, either. Microsoft also lists an issue with IIS websites failing to load, which has yet to be resolved:

Localhost is a reserved hostname for your PC, which allows your PC to act as a server and a receiver locally without reaching out to the external internet. It's commonly used by web developers and testers.

More impactful for the average Windows user was Microsoft breaking Windows 11's upgrade tool just hours before Windows 10's official End-of-Life date.

The Windows Media Creation Tool (MTC) is used to create bootable USBs or DVDs for reinstalling (or freshly installing) Windows 11 on a PC. With so many Windows 10 users scrambling to make the switch to Windows 11, Microsoft's timing once again couldn't have been worse.

Microsoft does offer a workaround for the MTC bug, which remains unresolved at the time of writing. It urges users to visit the Windows 11 Installation Assistant page and click on Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices.

From there, you can follow the on-screen prompts to work your way through the Windows 10 to Windows 11 upgrade process.

Tensions seem to be at an all-time high for Windows 10 users, especially for those who can't upgrade to Windows 11 pending its predecessor's end-of-life status, which is slated to take place in just a little over a month from now, on October 14, 2025.

Recently, multiple users lodged complaints that they aren't able to sign up for Microsoft's extended security updates program for Windows 10 amid the tight deadline, but the company has since confirmed that it will be available for all users before it cuts support for the expiring operating system.

Despite Microsoft's reassurance, Windows 10's imminent death continues to be a major concern for plenty of avid users, as highlighted by a Reddit user in the 'anticonsumption' subreddit. They posted a screenshot featuring a notice by Microsoft, which indicated that it will be ending support for Windows 10 and encouraged users to buy a new PC that supports Windows 11 to continue receiving security updates.

"Programmed obsolescence sucks," added 'in2ufferablebriick'. They revealed that the device they were using was 5 years old and that it had already been discontinued, including the availability of any repair parts. The Redditor had already used parts from another PC to upgrade the battery and RAM (memory).

Programmed (or planned) obsolescence is an implied business strategy leveraged to design products that are destined to need replacing over time. It's a technique that's used to get consumers to buy and upgrade their devices more frequently. In most cases, you'll find that these devices are easy to break and hard to repair or incompatible with new operating systems.

Windows stops updating Windows10 for free in 2025 from r/Anticonsumption

As you may know, one major deterrent that prevents Windows 10 users from upgrading to Windows 11 is Microsoft's stringent hardware requirements for the operating system, coupled with flawed design elements. Another Reddit user had made a similar argument about planned obsolescence 2 years ago [sic]:

"Man My laptop keyboard is "Not working". But that is not true at all it is 100% a driver mal function and I'd even say it is being done on purpose. and why? Simple, it works on Bios. and when i changed the ram memory and ssd it suddenly installed and updated drivers and worked again for a week. today i restarted the system and suddenly had the same issue."

"I dont want a new laptop this works fine and somehow managed to resell the old ram. which sucks I hate how techworld is literally making the world a living hell. people in Africa die so we can make new chips and computer components and a possible wat between Taiwan and Mainland China could happen."

"Just because we can just throw away our outdated tech from 2 years. some if it it is not even a year old. Im concerned. Do the guys running the show have a spaceship to earth 2.0? because I don't think the planet can keep up the pace much longer."

Are you prepared for the end of Windows 10?

An estimated 400 million PCs will be rendered obsolete following Microsoft's decision to pull the plug on the operating system, potentially leading to "the single biggest jump in dumped computers ever". A public interest group (PIRG) petitioned Microsoft to reconsider its decision to pull support for Windows 10, but the tech giant isn't letting up.

However, Microsoft has introduced multiple alternatives for the Windows 10 users who can't upgrade to Windows 11, including enrollment in the Windows 10 ESU program, which now supports up to 10 devices.

On the other hand, Windows 10 users can continue receiving these security updates for free for an extra year by syncing their PC settings data with the cloud via a Microsoft Account. However, the PIRG insists that Microsoft's extended support options for Windows 10 beyond its imminent death aren't enough.

The Restart Project, which helped co-develop the End of 10 Toolkit, intending to provide Windows 10 users with support after Microsoft pulls the plug on the operating system, seemingly echoes PIRG's sentiments, indicating that Microsoft's extended security updates program isn't a viable solution. "It's obvious users are frustrated and feel yanked around," the group added.

According to The Restart Project:

"Microsoft’s decision not only accelerates premature disposal but also undermines efforts to extend product lifespans and puts additional pressure on resource use and waste management systems."

"This is just one example of how software obsolescence drives up resource-use, turns functional devices into e-waste and pushes people into purchasing—often expensive—new devices. Without regulations preventing companies from making this kind of decision, these impacts are only likely to increase."

The group says Microsoft's move to continue pushing security updates to Windows 10 beyond its end-of-support feels like a last-minute snooze button, which only acts as a sort of band-aid on a bleeding system. It's also calling on the political class to support.

They're advocating for more to be done, including mobilizing communities to repair and breathe new life into these devices, with the help of the toolkit, which provides practical advice on how to adapt repair events.

But as it seems, Microsoft clearly wants users to upgrade to Windows 11 after Windows 10's imminent end-of-life, and has been blatantly using Copilot+ PCs and its next-gen AI features to make its point with bold statements like "Windows 11 PCs are up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs," already a bit of a stretch since many modern devices still ship with full Windows 10 compatibility, making it difficult to compare release-day hardware against modern-day AI PCs.

Elsewhere, a group called End of 10 has been advocating for users to completely ditch Microsoft's ecosystem for Linux after Windows 10's death, citing a lack of ads and telemetry tracking as the main incentives for the huge jump.

"My laptop is over 10 years old and I will not be buying a new one just because of updates. I think they will extend the 'Oct 25' date because so many users won't or can't update to 11," another user lamented on Reddit, and they certainly aren't alone.

On Windows 11, Microsoft delivers mandatory monthly quality updates to address security vulnerabilities, enhance stability, and introduce incremental improvements. While these updates are essential to keep devices protected and supported, they can occasionally introduce unexpected issues for a small (or large) number of users.

Nearly every year, at least one cumulative update triggers significant reliability problems on certain hardware configurations. Because there's no way to predict when an update might conflict with a specific setup, completely avoiding updates is not a safe strategy. Instead, the smarter approach is to prepare your system so you can recover quickly and minimize the risk of data loss if something goes wrong.

Although feature updates are optional while your current version remains within its support lifecycle, Windows 11 will automatically download and install the next release as the end of support approaches.

In this how-to guide, I'll outline the different ways you can protect your computer from any updates that may cause problems on Windows 11.

How to protect your PC from buggy updates on Windows 11

1. Enable System Restore

System Restore is a built-in recovery feature that captures snapshots of your system's configuration and saves them as restore points. If a problem occurs, you can roll back to a previous restore point to undo system changes, including removing recent updates, without affecting your personal files.

In earlier versions of the operating system, this feature was enabled by default. On Windows 11, however, you must configure it manually.

To ensure you can quickly recover from a problematic cumulative update, enable System Restore in advance and create a restore point before installing any new updates.

Turn on System Restore

To enable System Restore on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Create a restore point and click the top result to open the System Properties page.
3. Select the main "System" drive under the "Protection Settings" section.
4. Click the Configure button.

5. Select the "Turn on system protection" option.

6. Click the Apply button.
7. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, the feature will be enabled on your computer.

Although the feature should create restore points automatically upon specific triggers, such as installing a system update or driver, this is not always the case. As a result, it's recommended to create a restore point manually before making system changes.

Create a restore point

To create a restore point before installing a cumulative update, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Create a restore point, and click the top result to open the System Properties page.
3. Click the Create button under the "Protection Settings" section.

4. Confirm a descriptive name for the restore point – for example, Before the August 2025 update.
5. Click the Create button.

6. Click the Close button.
7. Click the OK button.
8. Click the Close button.

After you complete the steps, you can proceed with the installation of a new update, knowing you can undo the changes if anything happens.

If you must undo the changes, you can check my previous guide to set up and recover a computer using System Restore.

2. Enable Quick Machine Recovery

Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) is a relatively new capability designed to automatically help Windows 11 recover from critical boot failures.

When the feature is enabled, and the device fails to start properly due to a faulty update or another startup issue, the system can connect to the internet, upload diagnostic logs to Microsoft, and download a targeted fix through Windows Update, if one is available. This process is designed to restore boot functionality without requiring manual intervention.

QMR has been available since the August 2025 Security Update for version 24H2 and later releases. It is enabled by default on Windows 11 Home, but on Windows 11 Pro, you must enable it manually.

Microsoft is also working on changing this behavior so that Quick Machine Recovery is enabled by default on Windows 11 Pro devices, provided they are not managed by an organization.

To configure the Quick Machine Recovery feature on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.
3. Click the Recovery page on the right side.

4. Click the Quick machine recovery setting.

5. Turn on the "Quick machine recovery" toggle switch to enable the feature.

6. Turn on the "Continue search if a solution isn’t found" toggle switch to control the feature behavior.
7. Choose how long the system has to wait before checking for fixes using the "Look for solutions every" setting.
8. Select when to restart the device to repeat the process using the "Restart every" setting.

Once you complete the steps, if you receive a buggy update that won't let the computer boot correctly, the Quick Machine Recovery feature will start automatically to download and apply any available fixes (if applicable).

Microsoft says that this is a "best-effort" feature, meaning that it won't work on every boot problem.

You can also check my comprehensive guide to set up and use Quick Machine Recovery on Windows 11.

3. Uninstall problematic update

If a cumulative update is known to cause issues, and you still have access to the desktop, consider uninstalling the update until a permanent solution is released.

On Windows 11, you can uninstall a cumulative update from the desktop or recovery environment.

From Settings

If you still have access to the desktop, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Windows Update.
3. Click the Update history page.

4. Click the Uninstall updates setting under the "Related settings" section.

5. Click the Uninstall option for the buggy update.

6. Click the Restart now button (if applicable).

After you complete the steps, open the "Windows Update" page again through the Settings app, and under the "More options" section, click the "Pause for 1 week" button to prevent the system from reinstalling the same update again. If the setting offers more time, choose the longest period, such as four or five weeks.

From Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

If you don't have access to a desktop and the Quick Machine Recovery feature didn't work, you can still uninstall the most recent update with these instructions:

1. Start PC.
2. As soon as the Windows logo appears, press and hold the power button to interrupt the boot sequence.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 two more times.
4. Click the Advanced Startup option.
5. Click the Troubleshoot option.
6. Click on Advanced options.
7. Click the Uninstall Updates option.

8. Click the "Uninstall latest quality update" option.

9. Sign in using your administrator credentials (if applicable).
10. Click the "Uninstall quality update" button.

Once you complete the steps, the system will uninstall the most recent update, which in this case, should be the one causing the problem.

4. Disable automatic updates

On Windows 11, you can turn off updates in at least three ways. You can use the pause option within the "Windows Update" settings to temporarily prevent the system from downloading updates. Alternatively, you can permanently turn off the automatic mechanism and opt to trigger the update process manually.

From Settings

To temporarily disable automatic updates, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Windows Update.
3. Click the "Pause for 1 week" button to turn off automatic updates.

After you complete the steps, Windows 11 will stop downloading updates automatically for at least one week, which may be enough time for a newer update to address the current issue.

From Group Policy

To turn off automatic Windows 11 updates permanently from Group Policy, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for gpedit.msc and click the top result to launch the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Navigate to the following path: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage end user experience
4. Double-click the "Configure Automatic Updates" policy on the right side.

5. Check the Disabled option to turn off automatic updates permanently on Windows 11.

6. Click the Apply button.
7. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will stop automatically downloading and installing updates.

At any time, you can update the system manually by opening Settings > Windows Update and clicking the "Check for updates" button.

If you want to re-enable automatic updates, follow the same instructions outlined above, but in step 5, select the "Not Configured" option.

If you want to use the Registry or don't have access to the Group Policy Editor because you're using Windows 11 Home, you can refer to my comprehensive guide on how to disable Windows Update on your computer.

5. Create full computer backup

Another effective way to protect your system and personal data is to create proactive backups of your computer.

As a best practice, you should back up your device regularly, ideally at least once a week. However, it's especially important to perform a full backup before installing a new cumulative or feature update. If the update causes serious issues, you can restore the entire system to its previous working state.

If you use third-party backup software, you can rely on that solution. Otherwise, Windows 11 still includes the legacy System Image Backup tool, which allows you to create a complete backup of your installation to external storage.

To create a full backup, use these steps:

1. Open Start.
2. Search for Control Panel and click the top result to open the app.
3. Click on System and Security.
4. Click the "Backup and Restore" setting.

5. Click the "System Image Backup" option from the bottom-left corner.

6. Select the "On a hard disk" option.
7. Use the "On a hard disk" drop-down menu and select the Windows 11 full backup destination.

8. Click the Next button.
9. (Optional) Select any additional drives to include in the backup.
10. Click the Next button.
11. Click the Start backup button.

12. Click the No button.

• Quick note: You'll also receive a prompt to create a system repair disc, but you can skip it. If you need to roll back to a previous installation, you can use a USB installation media to access the recovery settings.

13. Click the Close button.

After you complete the steps, you will have a way to recover your computer and files in case an update breaks the installation.

If something happens and you have to recover from a previous backup, you can refer to my previous guide on backing up and restoring Windows 11.

In addition to using the System Image tool, you can alternatively use the "Backup and Restore" feature. On Windows 11, this feature allows you to set up daily automatic backups of the operating system and your files.

Once it's configured, it'll create an initial full backup and then continue creating incremental backups according to the schedule you have selected.

Furthermore, you should also complement your recovery plan with a file backup, which can be easily done using OneDrive or another cloud service.

Of course, you can always copy your files manually to an external storage, or you may use third-party tools.

Additional tips for updating the system

Although updates are essential for maintaining security and stability, you don’t always need to install them the moment they become available. Unless a release addresses a critical vulnerability that affects your system, it’s wise to delay installation for at least a couple of weeks. This waiting period allows time for widespread issues to surface and for Microsoft to resolve them if necessary.

You can temporarily pause updates from the Windows Update settings page to prevent automatic installation. If you choose to hold off, avoid clicking the "Check for updates" button, as this action can immediately trigger the download and installation of the latest release.

Before proceeding with any update, review the official Windows release health dashboard to check for known issues, safeguard holds, or compatibility blocks that may affect your device.

Additionally, once an update has been installed and is pending a restart, you can defer the reboot for up to several days. Delaying the restart provides a valuable window to create backups and prepare recovery options in case the update introduces unexpected problems.

FAQs about protecting PC from buggy update

These are common questions regarding the steps to protect a computer from a buggy update.

More resources

Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

What you need to know

• Microsoft has confirmed pricing for Extended Security Updates on Windows 10 beyond October 2025 for consumers.
• Consumers still using Windows 10 beyond the end of support date will have to pay $30 for an additional year of security updates.
• Consumers can only pay for one year of extended support, after that you're out of luck.
• You don't have to pay for updates, but that will leave you vulnerable to potential security exploits.

Windows 10's end of support date is fast approaching, with the deadline currently set for October 14, 2025. In a blog post published today, Microsoft has confirmed that individuals using Windows 10 Home or Pro will have to pay $30 to remain supported with security updates. This fee will enter your PC into Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which will keep Windows 10 secure with monthly patches for an additional 12 months.

For the first time ever, Microsoft is allowing consumers to join the ESU program, likely because it foresees a large amount of people remaining on Windows 10 beyond its end of support date. For users who can't move from Windows 10, the ESU program is a great option if you want to remain secure on the aging platform.

Of course, if you don't want to pay for a further year of security updates, you don't have to. You can risk running Windows 10 without security patches if you want, but that will make your PC vulnerable to any security exploits or bugs that are discovered within the OS post end of support.

Paying for updates will only last a year for consumers, Microsoft has confirmed. This means come October 2026 you won't be able to pay for any more security updates. Commercial and education customers can pay for two additional years beyond October 2026, but that's not available for individuals using Windows 10 on personal devices.

Microsoft says it will reveal more information about how users can enroll for extended support on Windows 10 sometime next year. For now, users can remain using Windows 10 securely for free for the next 11 months. Unsurprisingly, Microsoft's recommendation is to upgrade to Windows 11 to remain secure, but not all Windows 10 PCs support Windows 11, and so the extended support updates program is a lifeline for those PCs.

What does end of support mean?

When Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer be obligated to provide free monthly security updates and bug fixes. From this point onwards, app developers and hardware manufacturers may begin dropping support for Windows 10, however this is unlikely to happen immediately.

In the first few months after support ends, not much will change. Windows 10 will continue to function as normal, and many in-box apps will continue to be updated via the Microsoft Store. However, over time (we're talking multiple years) apps and drivers may stop officially supporting Windows 10, which can lead to compatibility issues with your favorite apps and peripherals.

End of support is a natural part of the Windows lifecycle. It happened with Windows XP, and it happened with Windows 7. There comes a point where Microsoft is no longer obligated to support the OS, and slowly but surely third-party hardware and software developers follow suite.

The most important thing to worry about once support ends is your security. If you're connected to the internet using a version of Windows 10 that hasn't been updated in months, any newly discovered security exploits will be vulnerable to attack by malware or viruses. Windows 10's built-in antivirus will continue to be updated with new definition updates until October 2028, but that's not full protection from malware.

Ultimately, if you want to remain as secure as possible, your only options are to pay for access to the ESU program or upgrade to Windows 11, whether that be on your existing Windows 10 PC or by buying a new Windows 11 device. Although Windows 11's system requirements are high, you can force Windows 11 to install on your unsupported Windows 10 PC. This isn't recommended, but it's a third-option if you want to remain secure but don't want to buy anything.

There are still around 60% of Windows users running Windows 10, which equates to roughly 900 million Windows 10 PCs still in active use. That's a huge majority, with Windows 11 coming in at around 30%, which is likely somewhere near the 500 million number. It will be interesting to how much Windows 10's usage drops in the next year, and how that translates to Windows 11 growth.

A year ago, we reported that Windows 11 had surpassed 400 million monthly active devices. At the time, Microsoft was happy with the speed in which it had achieved this goal, and it's now expecting another wave of users to move to Windows 11 over the next 12 months.

What you need to know

• Microsoft has announced an "extended security update" (ESU) program for Windows 10.
• The ESU program will allow users to pay for monthly security updates beyond Windows 10's end of support date.
• Windows 10 will reach end of life in October 2025.
• For the first time ever, both commercial and consumer customers will be able to subscribe to Microsoft's ESU program.

Microsoft has today announced that it will be launching an extended security update program for Windows 10 when the OS reaches end of support in October 2025. Similar to the Windows 7 ESU program, Microsoft will continue to support the OS for three years beyond the 2025 cut-off date for customers who are willing to pay for it.

Previously, the ESU program was limited to Microsoft's commercial customers, but for the first time ever the company is opening the program to everyone. This means people who use Windows 10 on their personal machines will be able to pay for continued support beyond October 2025 if they don't want to upgrade to Windows 11.

The company hasn't revealed pricing information yet, but a support document published today says both individual consumers and organizations will be able to sign up for a subscription that will be charged annually:

"If you are an individual consumer or an organization who elects to continue using Windows 10 after support ends on October 14, 2025, you will have the option of enrolling your PC in the paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. The ESU program enables PCs to continue to receive Critical and Important security updates through an annual subscription service after support ends. More details including pricing will be provided at a later date. The ESU program provides individual consumers and organizations of all sizes with the option to extend the use of Windows 10 PCs past the end of support date in a more secure manner."

Microsoft says it's remaining committed to the end of support date for Windows 10, with no plans to extend it beyond the current date of October 14, 2025. This means Windows 10 users will need to pay for monthly security updates starting November 2025, or risk exposure to unpatched vulnerabilities and bugs that are discovered after support ends.

Security updates only

The company is clear that the ESU program is for security updates only, meaning Microsoft won't be delivering new features to Windows 10 beyond October 2025. The ESU program exists primarily for commercial customers who are unable to upgrade their fleet of PCs from Windows 10 before support ends. 

Of course, users will not be forced to pay for this subscription. Windows 10 will continue to work as normal beyond October 2025, it just won't get any more security updates unless you subscribe to Microsoft's extended support program. 

In addition to the ESU program, Microsoft has announced that enterprise customers will have the option to "transform" Windows 10 PCs that are ineligible for Windows 11 into a Windows 365 machine that can stream Windows 11 from the cloud. These devices will be automatically enrolled into the ESU program at no additional cost as part of the Windows 365 subscription.

This option is only available for commercial customers, as Windows 365 is currently not available as a consumer subscription service.

What you need to know

• Microsoft announces an end to servicing legacy v3 and v4 Windows printer drivers via Windows Update, to be completed in 2027.
• Manufacturers will subsequently need to provide third-party drivers via brand-specific support portals.
• With a first-party Microsoft IPP Class Driver, printers will function on modern versions of Windows without extra software.

In what might seem like the first genuinely helpful step forward for printer usability in years, Microsoft is ending its support for third-party printer drivers (via Tech Radar) delivered through Windows Update. Though it sounds daunting, native support for Mopria-compliant printers (a certification program promoting interoperability between different models and manufacturers) will be available via its first-party IPP Class Driver, first introduced in Windows 10 version 21H2.

For developers, this means moving printer customization options from a traditional Win32 environment to Microsoft's UWP (Universal Windows Platform) framework. Still, consumers will generally benefit from a more plug-and-play experience thanks to the cross-compatibility across all editions of Windows. Microsoft's roadmap shows its plans to phase out legacy drivers, with no new drivers to be published via Windows Update from 2025.

Will my printer still work?

This doesn't put an end to brand-supplied drivers, only to their delivery via Windows Update. If you connect a new printer to your personal computer or network, you'll be free to use basic printing functionality as provided by the Microsoft IPP Class Driver. Otherwise, manufacturers can host third-party drivers with extra features via the web or even a traditional CD-ROM (yes, some printers still come with these.)

Regarding security concerns, Microsoft professes it will still address any issues related to legacy drivers even after the service period ends if the edition of Windows is within its support lifecycle. Similarly, Microsoft has no plans to deactivate printer-specific features with the legacy driver platform, and multi-function printer/scanner/fax machines will still work over IPP (Internet Printing Protocol.)

By 2027, third-party drivers will have been completely phased out of Windows Update, save for security-related fixes. From then on, you'll be able to connect a printer and send print jobs immediately instead of scouring the Internet for outdated support pages with driver packages built for Windows Vista. Any extended functionality will remain accessible with a manual third-party install, preventing accidental driver overlap via automatic updates. Imagine that.

What you need to know

• You can now access updates to classic Windows versions via the Windows Update Restore website.
• The website isn't affiliated with Microsoft.
• The team behind the project has indicated that the goal behind these updates is for "archival purposes only."
• Windows Update Restore doesn't restore the Automatic Update feature function.

Windows 11 has been available for nearly two years, though not everyone runs their PC on the operating system. Perhaps, because of Microsoft's "strict" minimum system requirements, preference for classic Windows versions, and many other reasons.

Whatever the case, Microsoft doesn't push updates to classic Windows versions anymore. Quite frankly, this can be frustrating. As you're well aware, security updates are crucial to ensure that your data and personal files are safe from attacks. The same can be said about feature updates, which bring a refreshed and modern design to the operating system. 

Luckily, not all hope is lost for users running classic Windows versions on their PCs. As spotted by our sister site, Tom's Hardware, users can access "ancient" Windows Update pages via the Windows Update Restored website.

This means that if you're still running on classic Windows versions, such as Windows 95, NT 4.0, 98, Me, 2000, and XP, you'll now be able to get Windows Update as you would when running a supported Windows version.

Notably, the folks behind the project have indicated that the website is not affiliated with Microsoft. They go on to stress that interested parties should ensure that they back up their data to avoid the loss of important information and files in the event that the process doesn't run as intended.

The main purpose this project hopes to achieve is for "archival." The minds behind the project further indicated that the project isn't designed to prevent people from upgrading to newer, supported operating systems. Although you'll now get security updates in classic Windows versions, attackers leverage sophisticated techniques to compromise your systems. Techniques that older Windows versions might not necessarily be able to counter.

The team has also shared a video on their website illustrating how the update process should ideally work. Through the website, you'll be able to access security updates, optional updates, driver updates, and other types of software.

It's also worth noting that the website only restores the Windows Update website, but not the Automatic Updates feature, as expected. Your device should also sport Internet Explorer 5.0 or above, but Windows Update Restored recommends Internet Explorer 5.5.

Similarly, Stardock has made significant strides toward keeping classic Windows versions like Windows 95 alive. At least as far as the aesthetic appeal is concerned. Last year, the company shipped a new OS version WindowBlinds 11, which can configure Windows 11 and make your PC look like it's running Windows 95.

This is a great feat, especially for users who still run their PCs on these classic Windows versions. Notably, the team behind the site is likely going to expand its reach to other operating systems that are no longer supported, such as Windows Server 2003 and more, since they are already featured on the site's compatibility page:

"This website restores the Windows Update v3.1 website (1997), and in the future, Windows Update v4 (2001), and Windows Update v5 (2004). This website allows you to update your Windows 95 system, Windows 98 First Edition and Second Edition systems, Windows ME System, and in the future Windows 2000 Systems, and Windows XP systems. Server versions are also supported."

With the launch of Windows 11 version 22H2, Microsoft announced that it would begin updating the Windows OS with new features on a regular basis, outside of the annual Windows feature update in the fall. The first feature drop arrived just a month after 22H2 launched, and included tabs in File Explorer and other improvements.

Now, the second feature drop for Windows 11 version 22H2 has just been announced and is now available to download via Windows Update. This second feature drop, also known as "Moment 2" internally, has been in testing with Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel for a number of months already.

This update will roll out to all users alongside Windows 11's March 2023 security update on March 14, so everyone will be getting these features in the next few weeks. So, here's a run rundown of all the new features and enhancements coming with the Windows 11 Moment 2 feature drop. 

• Bing Chat in Windows Search
• New search bar options for the Taskbar
• Touch-optimized Taskbar for tablets and 2-in-1 devices
• Modernized Taskbar system tray overflow menu
• Phone Link for iOS (preview)
• Tabs in Notepad
• Screen recording in Snipping Tool
• Search in Task Manager
• Energy recommendations in Settings
• Voice access improvements
• Redesigned Quick Assist app
• Full-screen Widgets panel with third-party widget support
• AI powered file recommendations in Start for AAD joined devices
• Windows Studio Effects in Quick Settings

Taskbar Enhancements

The biggest new update in the Moment 2 feature drop is the introduction of a new tablet-optimized Taskbar that's designed to minimize out of view when not in use, and enlarge when the user taps or swipes on it using a touchscreen. With this update, the Taskbar will get out of the way when opening and using apps, providing a more full-screen experience akin to that of an iPad or Android tablet.

The user can swipe up on the Taskbar to access pinned and running app icons, and doing so will also present the Taskbar in an enlarged state so that tapping on icons is easier with a finger. Additionally, the user can continue swiping up to jump straight into the Start menu.

In addition to the new tablet-optimized Taskbar, the Taskbar's system tray area has also been updated with modern code and a tweaked design. It now features new animations, rounded corners, and the ability to pin and unpin background apps via the Settings app.

You can now even turn off the System Tray overflow menu altogether, which is handy for those who have app icons in there that they don't ever intend to access. 

Lastly, the Taskbar is getting new search bar options for the first time, allowing the user to customize how the search button looks. Here are the four new search icon settings that the user can choose between:

• No icon
• Search icon
• Search icon with label
• Search box

The search icon is the traditional magnifying glass icon that's been present on Windows 11 since it first launched. The new options are the "search icon with label," which adds the word "search" to the button and changes it to a wider pill shape, and the "search box" option which makes the button even wider, but allows the user to type directly into the box for search queries. 

Microsoft is also bringing Bing Chat to the Windows Search landing page, offering quick access to the Bing AI via Microsoft Edge.

In-box app updates

The Moment 2 feature drop for Windows 11 version 22H2 also includes updates to some in-box apps. Namely, the Task Manager and Settings apps, which have new additions for the user to toy with. 

We'll start with Task Manager, which now has a new Search bar along the top of the app, allowing you to search for misbehaving apps quickly and easily. The Task Manager has also been updated with better accent color support, and modernized popup dialogs that match the rest of Windows 11's design language.

The Settings app also has a few new options for users to configure, including a new Energy Recommendations feature in the Power & Sleep settings area. This new feature offers a one-click process for changing settings on your Windows laptop to more energy efficient settings, including reducing the time it takes to put your laptop to sleep when no input has been detected, and more.

Additionally, Microsoft is bringing tabs to the Windows Notepad app, and screen recording functionality to the Windows Snipping Tool app. Phone Link is also being updated to support iPhone, though this functionality remains in limited preview for now.

There are also improvements to the Voice Access app, which is now more flexible and can be used in more areas of the Windows UI. Lastly, Microsoft is also expected to begin rolling out updates to the Widgets Panel soon that will bring full-screen panel functionality, new weather button options, as well as support for third-party widgets.

Windows 11 Moment 2 Changelog

Here's the full changelog for the Moment 2 update, as provided by Microsoft:

• This update provided access Windows Studio effects directly from quick settings on the taskbar for devices that had a supported neural processing unit (NPU). This made it quick and easy to turn on and configure camera effects. Those effects included Background blur, Eye contact, Automatic framing, and Audio effects (Voice focus). You can still access these effects in the Settings pages.
• This update made it easier to get help if you were having PC issues. It added a link to the Quick Assist app at the bottom of Settings > System > Troubleshooters. You could also find Quick Assist in the Start menu’s All apps list.
• This update improved the search box experience on the taskbar. As you typed in the search box, search results appeared in the search box. You could also change the search experience you wanted for your taskbar by going to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar. For commercial customers, this update added a new policy for IT administrators to manage how the search box on the taskbar appears in your organization. For more information, see Customizing search on the Windows 11 taskbar.
• This update provided energy recommendations. If you used them, they could help to improve the energy efficiency of your PC and reduce your carbon footprint. Go to Settings > System > Power & Battery > Energy Recommendations.
• This update enhanced the system tray (formerly called the notification area). All icons had a rounded focus and hover treatment in the lower right, including the “Show hidden icons” flyout menu. You could move icons to rearrange them in the “Show hidden icons” flyout menu or move icons to the taskbar.
• This update introduced a touch-optimized taskbar for 2-in-1 devices that you could use as a tablet. There were two states of this taskbar: collapsed and expanded. To switch between the two states, swipe up and down on the bottom of your screen. When collapsed in tablet mode, the taskbar receded to give you more screen space and kept you from accidentally opening the taskbar. When expanded in tablet mode, the taskbar was optimized to be easier to use with touch. Your taskbar automatically changed to this optimized version when you disconnected or folded back the keyboard.
  • This feature only worked on devices that could be used as tablets and was on by default. To change that, go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors. The setting is called “Optimize taskbar for touch interactions when this device is used as a tablet.” If your company manages Windows updates for your device, this feature will be off by default. Administrators can turn it on using the new commercial control for continuous innovation.
• This update provided enhanced support for braille devices. They continued working while you switched between Microsoft Narrator and third-party screen readers. Narrator automatically changed braille drivers. For more information, see Chapter 8: Using Narrator with braille.
• This update also added support for new braille displays and new braille input and output languages in Narrator. Some of the new braille displays included the APH Chameleon, the APH Mantis Q40, the NLS eReader, and many more. For more information, see Chapter 8: Using Narrator with braille.
• This update made voice access more flexible and supported interaction with more user interface (UI) controls. For example, voice interacted with controls that contained:
  • Names that had numbers, such as “Click 5”
  • Names without whitespaces between them, such as “click PivotTable” or “click PivotChart”
  • Names that had special characters, such as Bluetooth & devices (“click Bluetooth and devices”) or Dial – up (“click dial hyphen up”)
• This update added voice access support for spin controls, thumb controls, and split buttons. You interact with these controls by using the “click” command or number overlays. This update also fixed issues that affected snapping commands that snapped a window left or right. Commands that moved the cursor in a text box ran instantly.
• This update also provided voice scrolling enhancements. You could use voice to scroll to the extreme left and right on a page. You could also use continuous scrolling to the left or right like what is already present for vertical scrolling. For more information about the new voice access commands, see Voice access command list.
• For devices that were joined to Azure Active Directory (AAD), this update provided AI-powered recommended content on your Start menu. On the Start menu, you found content to help you to prepare for meetings, quickly access files you were collaborating on, and more.
• We added the new Tamil Anjal keyboard for the Tamil language. To add it, make sure Tamil (Singapore), Tamil (Malaysia), Tamil (Sri Lanka), or Tamil (India) appears in Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region. Select the ellipses (…) next to the language. Select Language Options. Add Tamil Anjal (QWERTY) to the list of keyboards.
• We fixed an issue that affected the Color filters setting. When you selected Inverted, the system set it to Grayscale instead.
• We improved the reliability of Windows after you installed an update.
• We supported the United Mexican States’ daylight-saving time change order for 2023.
• We fixed a date information issue. It affected the format of dates sent between Windows and some versions of the Heimdal Kerberos library.
• We fixed an issue that affected IE mode. The text on the status bar was not always visible.
• We fixed compatibility issues that affected some printers. Those printers used Windows Graphical Device Interface (GDI) printer drivers. Those drivers did not completely adhere to GDI specifications.
• We fixed an issue that affected the software keyboard. It did not appear in the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) after a Push-button reset (factory reset). This type of reset required an external keyboard to be attached to provide credentials.
• We fixed an issue that displayed a blue screen during video playback. This occurred after you set high dynamic range (HDR) on your display.
• We fixed an issue that might have affected the touch keyboard and the PIN entry keyboard. You might not have been able to use them to enter text when you signed in to your device.
• We fixed an issue that affected AppV. It stopped file names from having the correct letter case (uppercase or lowercase).
• We fixed an issue that affected Microsoft Edge. The issue removed conflicting policies for Microsoft Edge. This occurred when you set the MDMWinsOverGPFlag in a Microsoft Intune tenant and Intune detected a policy conflict.
• We fixed an issue that affected provisioning packages. They failed to apply in certain circumstances when elevation was required.
• We fixed an issue that affected Azure Active Directory (Azure AD). Using a provisioning package for bulk provisioning failed.
• We fixed an issue that affected Universal Print’s Configuration Service Provider (CSP). A command prompt window appeared when you installed a printer.
• We fixed a reliability issue that occurred when you used Task View.
• We fixed an issue that affected which folders appeared in the Browse for Folder picker.
• We fixed an issue that affected File Explorer. When you used Shift  +Tab or Shift+F6, the input focus did not move.
• We fixed an issue that affected the user interface (UI). The volume up and volume down commands from a Bluetooth keyboard did not display.
• We fixed an issue that affected Xbox subscribers. If you purchased an Xbox subscription using the “Redeem code” option, the Xbox subscription card did not appear on the Settings Accounts page. This occurred when recurring billing was off.
• We fixed an issue that might have affected lsass.exe. It might have stopped responding. This occurred when it sent a Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) query to a domain controller that had a very large LDAP filter.
• We fixed an issue that affected the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS). LSASS might have stopped responding. This occurred after you ran Sysprep on a domain-joined machine.
• We fixed an issue that affected copying from a network to a local drive. Copying was slower than expected for some users.
• We fixed an issue that affected parity virtual disks. Using Server Manager to create them failed.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's first feature drop update for Windows 11 22H2 is now rolling out.
• It features tabs in File Explorer, a new Suggested Actions menu, and more.
• Users on 22H2 already should get the update automatically in the coming weeks.

Microsoft's first feature drop for Windows 11 version 22H2 is upon us! After Microsoft announced that it was planning to update Windows 11 on a more frequent basis with "continuous innovation" back in September, the company is now rolling out its first post-22H2 RTM feature drop which brings with it a handful of notable features and changes.

Now, frustratingly, Microsoft doesn't have an official name for these feature drops. It's not even calling them feature drops, but we're struggling to think of a better way to describe them. So, we're unofficially dubbing them feature drops! Internally, Microsoft refers to them as "Moment" updates, with this release being "Moment 1."

File Explorer improvements

The biggest new feature landing with Microsoft's first feature drop for Windows 11 22H2 involve the File Explorer, which is finally getting a tabbed navigation interface along with updates to its home page and sidebar.

The new tabs feature works similarly to tabbed web browsers that we're all familiar with. Along the top of File Explorer now exist a horizontal row of tabs, where you can add more and close them when finished. You can also now right-click on folders to open them in a new tab.

You can also drag files between tabs, but you can't move tabs between different File Explorer windows, at least not yet. You also can't rearrange your open tabs, meaning the order they opened is the order they'll be staying in until you close some of them. 

Other improvements to File Explorer with this first feature drop are updates to the home page and sidebar interfaces. Microsoft has rearranged the sidebar, placing the home page and OneDrive locations at the very top, then your most frequently accessed local folders, followed by This PC and Network locations.

The updates home page is similar to the old one, but now has the ability to house pinned files for you to gain access to quickly. The pinned area sits between your most frequently accessed folders, and most recently opened documents. You can pin files from anywhere on your system by right clicking the file within File Explorer and selecting "Pin to quick access."

Suggested Actions

Also new with this release is a new quick actions menu that will appear when you highlight and copy a date or phone number. No matter the text field, copying a date or phone number will present a menu with options for either creating an event in your calendar, or calling and adding a phone number to your contacts list.

Right now, this feature only works in a few select regions, so if this doesn't appear for you when copying these formats, that's probably why. Microsoft says it will roll out to more markets in the coming weeks and months.

Taskbar updates

There are a handful of new Taskbar updates with this feature drop, including a new overflow menu UI that will appear when you run out of space for running apps on the Taskbar. Now, the Taskbar will present additional running apps in a three dotted overflow menu that floats above the Taskbar when you click on it. This will mostly be handy for users using Windows on a tablet or laptop with sub-13-inch screens. 

Lastly, Microsoft has also added back the shortcut for launching Task Manager when right-clicking anywhere on the Taskbar. Hooray!

Microsoft has today announced that it will begin updating Windows 11 with new features and enhancements on a more frequent basis in a new update cadence that aims to deliver “continuous innovation” to Windows 11 users. This new cadence was announced alongside the general availability of the Windows 11 2022 Update, which is beginning to roll out now.

Starting next month, Microsoft says users can expect to start seeing the first wave of new features that will begin rolling out on top of version 22H2. Unfortunately, the company isn’t planning to formally name these feature drops for easy identification, though internally we know the company refers to them as “Moments.”

Here’s a breakdown of all the new features rolling out in the first “moment” for Windows 11 version 22H2:

• Enhancements to File Explorer: Microsoft is introducing tabs to the File Explorer app with this first feature drop, along with improvements to the left-hand navigation pane that reorganizes the folder view for a better experience.
• A new photos app: An updated Photos app with a new photos-managing experience, new photo gallery design, simplified photos browsing and finding, and easy backup of Photos to OneDrive.
• Suggested Actions: A new UI that will appear whenever you copy a phone number or date, offering quick actions to deal with that data such as adding a phone number to your contacts list or creating an event in Outlook around the date you’ve copied.
• Taskbar Overflow: An updated interface on the Taskbar that better handles overflowing icons. Useful for PCs with small screens or users with busy Taskbars.
• Share to more devices: An update to the ability to share files to more devices, including desktops using nearby share.
• Microsoft Store improvements: In October, expect to see updates to the Microsoft Store with screenshots in search results, the ability to restore apps with a single click, and Android apps appearing in search results.

These new features will rollout in the form of Microsoft Store updates and servicing updates, tied to the security updates that Microsoft rolls out to Windows on a monthly basis. Not every month will see new features ship, but my sources say the company intends to roll out new feature drops up to four times a year. The next one is currently scheduled for early 2023, likely in February or March.

You can read more about the new update cadence here, including how annual feature updates will continue to factor into the equation as a much less major event going forward.

In a brief mention buried in a blog post about the new Windows 11 update, Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 version 22H2 will begin rolling out to customers next month. Unfortunately, it still hasn’t detailed what will be new with this release, outside of the fact that it will reset the support lifecycle clock for consumers and enterprises who need it.

Microsoft plans to continue releasing new versions of Windows 10 up until the end of 2025, when support for the OS is scheduled to expire. Now that Windows 11 is on the market, these annual feature updates for Windows 10 are expected to be very minor in scope and are unlikely to include any notable surface-level features or changes.

Version 22H2 for Windows 10, just like version 21H2 before it, will ship as a servicing style release. This means it won't require a large download and is overall much less risky to install. The download will be small in size, and the installation process should only take a couple of minutes.

Windows 10 PCs that are eligible for Windows 11 will be able to upgrade to the new version 22H2 release of Windows 11 directly starting today. PCs that were ineligible for Windows 11 last year will continue to be ineligible for the new Windows 11 update, however.

What you need to know

• Microsoft will continue to roll out updates for supported versions of Windows on the second Tuesday of each month.
• Some outlets incorrectly referred to the June Patch Tuesday updates as the final ones.
• The confusion appears to have been caused by the fact that Microsoft will start its new Autopatch service in July.
• Microsoft reiterated that Patch Tuesday updates will continue to roll out each month, even after Autopatch service starts.

Microsoft will launch its Windows Autopatch service next month (July 2022). The service will keep enterprise systems up to date by managing software, firmware, and driver updates. The announcement of Windows Autopatch caused some confusion regarding the future of Patch Tuesday updates, but Microsoft has clarified the situation.

Microsoft said to SecurityWeek that security updates will continue to be released on the second Tuesday of each month (via Neowin). Organizations will be able to opt in to Windows Autopatch but do not have to do so.

Note that Windows Autopatch is a feature for Windows Enterprise E3. Consumer versions of Windows will not be affected.

At the moment, Microsoft rolls out updates for Windows on the second Tuesday of each month. These are commonly referred to as Patch Tuesday updates. With Autopatch on the way, some outlets referred to June's Patch Tuesday updates as the "final" Patch Tuesday updates.

That isn't the case, though. When speaking of Windows Autopatch back in April, Microsoft's Lior Bela said, "for organizations who select this option, the second Tuesday of every month will be 'just another Tuesday'" (emphasis added).

The clarification is important, as Windows Autopatch will only make Patch Tuesday "just another Tuesday" for organizations that want that to be the case. Organizations will continue to have the option to rely on Patch Tuesday updates.

Microsoft shared an FAQ page about Windows Autopatch in April 2022. One section asks "Does Windows Autopatch affect Patch Tuesday? Do I have to change the way I manage updates for the devices in my organization?" The document answers:

"Monthly security and quality updates for supported versions of the Windows and Windows Server operating systems will continue to be delivered on the second Tuesday of the month (commonly referred to Patch Tuesday or Update Tuesday) as they have been to date.

Organizations can continue to use the same processes and tools they use today—such as Microsoft Endpoint Manager, Windows Update for Business, and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)—to manage and deploy these updates.

Windows Autopatch utilizes the same tools just referenced – and leverages proven best practices backed by Microsoft experts – to provide an alternative for those organizations seeking a more automated, hands-off approach to deploying updates."

What you need to know

• September 2021's Patch Tuesday is here.
• Recent versions of Windows 10 can look forward to cumulative update KB5005565.
• These versions include 21H1, 20H2, and 2004, as well as the now-in-testing 21H2.

September 2021's Patch Tuesday is here. For Windows 10 version 21H1, 20H2, 2004, and 21H2 (for the Windows Insiders who are testing it) cumulative update KB5005565 is here. Windows 10 version 1909 is also getting a cumulative update, KB5005566. KB5005566 features the same fixes as KB5005565.

If you want a full round of the month's security updates, you can find the extensive list over at Microsoft's site. As for key changes outside the laundry list of security items, Microsoft's has only designated one as a noteworthy highlight:

• Addresses an issue that causes PowerShell to create an infinite number of child directories. This issue occurs when you use the PowerShell Move-Item command to move a directory to one of its children. As a result, the volume fills up and the system stops responding.

This Patch Tuesday brings the build numbers of Windows 10 21H1, 20H2, and 2004 up to 19043.1237, 19042.1237, and 19041.1237. It's not the most content-stacked Patch Tuesday to ever pass, but as is always the case with Windows, unexciting security updates are a predictable, welcome inclusion given how many threat actors target the operating system family's various iterations.

With that in mind, there are those who don't put a premium on Windows updates. In response to the recent news that unsupported PCs on Windows 11 have a dicey future ahead with regards to said updates, a majority of readers on Windows Central still went ahead and said they'd risk it for the biscuit and enjoy the new OS on their unsupported device.

What you need to know

• CISA issued a warning that attackers are targeting unpatched systems through the security flaw known as Eternal Darkness and SMBGhost.
• Microsoft patched the security flaw in March, but some people haven't updated their PCs.
• Attackers can utilize the vulnerability to gain remote access to a system and do damage.

Unpatched PCs running Windows 10 are being targeted by attackers utilizing a security vulnerability known as Eternal Darkness and SMBGhost. The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued a warning about the security flaw and the fact that attackers are still using it (via PC Gamer). Microsoft issued a patch for the vulnerability in March, but some people haven't updated their systems. As a result, attackers can gain unauthorized remote access to unpatched PCs and to damage.

When Microsoft sent out the patch in March, it was an "out-of-band patch," which means that it came separately from Microsoft's usual Patch Tuesday updates. These types of updates generally fix security issues, though Microsoft also issued an out-of-band update for a bug involving VPNs blocking Office apps from accessing the internet in March.

The Eternal Darkness or SMBGhost security vulnerability involves the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. This is a protocol that allows PCs on a network to share files, printers, and other elements. Version 3.11 of the SMB protocol is affected by the security flaw.

CISA points out that while the flaw has been patched, there are still systems at risk:

To protect your system from the Eternal Darkness/SMBGhost security flaw, you can check for an update through Windows Update. You can also update your PC to the May 2020 Update for Windows 10 (version 2004), as the security flaw does not affect the latest version of Windows 10. Microsoft also has a security advisory that breaks down the vulnerability and outlines which PCs and versions of Windows 10 are affected.

What you need to know

• Some people can't install the latest optional update for Windows 10.
• At least one user experienced crashing while trying to get the build.
• It's unclear how widespread these issues are.

Updated April 2, 2020: Since initial reports of installation issues, reports were made about this update after installation. We've added references to the new reports.

Earlier this week, Microsoft released an optional update to Windows 10. The update brought devices to build Windows 10 Build 18362.752 or 18363.752, depending on the version of Windows 10 a system is on. Now, some people are unable to install the latest update (via Windows Latest). Others ran into system crashes while going through the update process. At this time, it's unclear how widespread issues related to the update are.

The update is optional, so many people probably haven't attempted to get it yet. The update brought dozens of bug fixes, but nothing that seemed critical.

The issues were flagged by people in the Feedback Hub and Reddit. When one person in the Feedback Hub tried to install the update, they saw the error message "2020-03 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 1909 for x64-based Systems (KB4541335) – Error 0x800f0831" followed by "There were problems installing some updates, but we'll try again later."

Another person on the Feedback Hub states that after reaching 74% installation, input on their system stopped working.

Since initial reports of issues with this update appeared, some people have also reported problems after installing the update. One person on the Feedback Hub reports an whe_uncorrectable_error. Another person experienced issues with CPU temperature remaining high. Like initial reports, the issues with this update seem like they aren't widespread.

It's unclear how widespread issues with this update are. None of the Reddit threads discussing it have more than 25 comments, and there hasn't been the swarm of feedback and reports that we've seen with more serious issues. Additionally, since the update is optional, people can just skip it altogether.

Some people on Reddit have suggested performing an in-place upgrade with the media creation tool. But even if that does work, it might not be worth the hassle for a single optional update.

Microsoft recently announced that it would pause optional non-security updates for a while due to the current health crisis.

Microsoft also recently announced a new lead of the Windows Insider Program, Amanda Langowski, who could help reduce update issues in the future.

What you need to know

• Microsoft shipped a new optional Windows 10 update to fix internet connection issues.
• The connection issues were first reported last week, and impacted those using a VPN or proxy connection.
• The update is available now, and Microsoft recommends you only install it if you've been seeing the issue it addresses.

Microsoft today pushed out a new optional Windows 10 update meant to fix internet connection issues that were reported by VPN and proxy users last week. The issue caused Windows to show a limited or no connection status with manual or auto-configured proxies. It also prevented some apps from connecting to the internet.

"An out-of-band optional update is now available on the Microsoft Update Catalog to address a known issue whereby devices using a proxy, especially those using a virtual private network (VPN), might show limited or no internet connection status," a Microsoft support document for the update reads. The update applied to Windows 10 versions 1909, 1903, 1809, 1803, and 1709. The release notes for the update read:

Microsoft recommends that you install this optional update on PCs that have experienced this issue. If you have run into this problem, the update is available now via Windows Update.

What you need to know

• A Windows 10 bug prevents Office 365, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and other apps from connecting to the Internet.
• The bug affects people using proxy connections or VPNs.
• The bug comes at a time when millions of people are working from home for the first time.

Microsoft issued a warning to people about a Windows 10 bug that prevents Office 365, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and other apps from connecting to the Internet (via ZDNet). The bug affects people using proxy connections and VPNs. The bug comes at a terrible time because millions of people are working from home for the first time due to current health restrictions. The bug can also affect people's ability to connect to the Internet in general.

The bug affects all versions of Windows that have applied cumulative update KB4535996 or any of the three cumulative updates that came after that. KB4535996 came out on February 27, 2020, so devices updated after that date could run into the bug.

Microsoft outlines the bug in a doc:

Microsoft states that restarting your device might mitigate the issue. It adds that it is "working on a resolution and are targeting a Microsoft Catalog only release of an out-of-band update to resolve this issue by early April."

What you need to know

• A recent optional Windows 10 Update seems to cause issues, including slowing boot times.
• The issues come with Windows 10 KB4535996, which fixed several other issues.
• Microsoft has had several issues with Windows 10 updates over the last few months.

Updated March 9, 2020: Microsoft confirmed the issue in a comment and is working on the fix. The comment reads, "We're aware of issues with signtool.exe after installing the latest optional update for Windows 10, version 1903 or Windows 10, version 1909 (KB4535996). If you are encountering issues or receiving errors related to signtool.exe, you can uninstall the optional update KB4535996. We are working on a resolution and estimate a solution will be available in mid-March."

A Windows update is causing issues for people yet again. This time, it's Windows 10 KB4535996 that's causing some people's PCs to experience slow boot times. Additionally, the Sign tool app is crashing for some and lower frame rates in games and stuttering for others. Windows 10 KB4535996 was an optional update that fixed several issues, but it brought some new ones with it.

Windows Latest and TechRadar reported the issue earlier today. Additionally, a person on Reddit shared their own issues with the update a few days ago. TechRadar also reports in some extreme cases, PCs can get stuck in a boot loop. It's worth noting that Windows 10 should give you the option to boot your PC in Safe Mode if it fails multiple times. You can then uninstall the update.

Luckily, Windows 10 KB4535996 was an optional update, so a lot of people probably don't have it on their system. If you have installed it and have any issues, you can easily uninstall it with these steps:

1. Select the start button or Windows Desktop Search and type update history and select View your Update history.
2. On the Settings/View update history dialog window, Select Uninstall Updates.
3. On the Installed Updates dialog window, find and select KB4535996 and select the Uninstall button.
4. Restart your device.
5. Upon restart use the "Reset this PC" feature, and you should not encounter this issue.

Microsoft has had several update-related issues over the last few months. We'll have to keep an eye out to see if this is a continuing trend or a spurt of isolated incidents.

What you need to know

• Microsoft acknowledged the deletion bug that's present in the latest Windows Update.
• For some people, Windows 10 KB4532693 deleted all files on the desktop and caused the Start Menu and settings to boot up in their default state.
• The fix Microsoft shares won't work in all cases but could help get your files back.

Updated February 19, 2020: The bottom of this article now includes a guide on how to move files to a new account. This could help you restore your lost files.

Microsoft acknowledged that the latest Windows Update has a bug that could delete people's files and cause the Start Menu and settings to boot up in their default state. The company also has a fix that could restore people's files in some cases. While the bug doesn't appear to be widespread, it is a serious issue for those affected. In some cases, the deleted files cannot be recovered, at least with the methods tried so far.

The deletion issue came with Windows 10 KB4532693, which shipped recently. People on a Microsoft answers forum highlighted the issue (via Windows Latest).

Now, more details and a potential fix have been shared by Microsoft employees. Windows Latest spoke with several members of the Microsoft support team, which states that "Microsoft is aware of this known issue and our engineers are working diligently to find a solution for it."

There is a current fix that works for some PCs, though it's an awkward solution that doesn't work in all cases. The bug seems to create a temporary user account where the deleted files are kept. You can create a new local account, transfer the data from the created temporary account to the new local account, and restore your data. While this works in some cases, it's not a surefire fix for the issue. Some report that their files are permanently removed from their system.

Below is a our guide to help move files to a new account, which should ease the process a bit. If you've been affected by this issue, it will create a temporary user account. You might be able to recover your files by moving them from the new temporary local account to a new local account. This solution isn't 100 percent effective, but could save your files. You can also check out our full guide on how to use a local account to fix issues on Windows 10, which includes how to create a local administrator account, how to remove an old account, and more.

Moving files to a new account

To move your files to a new account, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on This PC from the left pane.
3. Under the "Devices and drives" section, double-click to open the C: drive.

4. Double-click to open the Users folder.
5. Double-click to open your old profile folder.

6. If you see the "You don't currently have permission to access this folder" message, click the Continue button.
7. Open the Run command (Windows key + R keyboard shortcut).
8. Type the following command and click the OK button:%homepath%

9. Snap the new profile folder to the left side (while the window is focus use the Windows key + left arrow).

10. Select the old profile folder to snap on the right side.
11. In the new profile window (left), click the Select all button from the "Home" tab.
12. Click the Delete button from the "Home" tab to remove the default folders.

13. In the old profile folder (right), click the Select all button from the "Home" tab.Quick tip: If you're using OneDrive in the previous account, make sure to remove the "OneDrive" folder from the selection by clearing the checkmark on the left side of the item to avoid errors. You can access your files later, after setting up the cloud service in the new account. If you have some files that haven't been uploaded to your OneDrive account, then make sure to copy them over the new profile or external drive, as you won't be able to access them after deleting the old account.
14. Click the Cut button from the "Home" tab.

15. In the new profile window (left), click the Paste button from the "Home" tab.

Once you complete the steps, your files will be available in the new account.

Alongside transferring your files, you want to make sure that your apps are still accessible from the Start menu. Although it's rare, you may need to reinstall and reactivate some apps because some apps only work per account and not per computer.

If you also use OneDrive, you can use these steps to set up your account again.

What you need to know

• A recent Windows Update appears to be deleting people's desktop files.
• Several user reports speak of similar issues following a recent Windows Update.
• The issue seemed connected to Windows 10 KB4532693.

Updated February 18, 2020: Microsoft staff state that Microsoft is aware of the issue. We've updated this article to reflect that and included more details about the bug. You can read more about the potential fix here.

Yet another issue seems to affect Windows 10 users as a result of a Windows Update. This time, people report that Windows 10 KB4532693 is deleting files from their desktops. Windows Latest spotted the reported issue on a Microsoft answers forum. The issue seems to delete all files saved on the desktop. It can also cause settings and the Start Menu to boot up in their default state, effectively deleting people's settings and customizations.

It's important to note that this issue isn't widely reported, at least not at the moment. Multiple users have reported similar issues, and Microsoft staff told Windows Latest that Microsoft is aware of the issue.

TechRader reports that some people have managed to restore their files, but others have been unable to do so. The issue renames and moves people's user profile, causing the file deletion problem. Microsoft's current fix for the issue involves creating a new local account, transferring data from the temporary account that the bug accidentally created to the new local account. This should get your data back, but doesn't seem to work for everyone.

An upset user within the Microsoft answer forum shared their experience with the issue:

It's often difficult to determine how widespread and serious these types of issues are. As Windows Updates affect so many people, a spotlight is placed on any issue with Windows 10. If the user reports are accurate and the issue related to a Windows Update, it's the second update-related issue within the last week.

Microsoft recently removed Security update KB4524244 because it caused an issue on a subset of PCs. That update caused "Push Button Reset" to fail. This new issue seems more serious, as it could result in a large number of people's files being deleted.

Microsoft is looking for a fix to the recent issue, and we'll keep you updated on any progress regarding a fix.

What you need to know

• A second January patch of updates is available for Windows 10 version 1809.
• The update includes a lengthy list of improvements and fixes.
• You can grab the update now through Windows Update.

A second set of January updates is available for Windows 10 version 1809. As is normally the case with patches, this update doesn't have any new features. It does, however, include a lengthy list of improvements and fixes.

You can read the full release notes for the update on Microsoft's support site or browse through the fixes and improvements below.

• Addresses an issue with Windows Mixed Reality that occurs after upgrading to a new version of Microsoft Edge.
• Addresses an issue with download notifications that have multiple short-duration tabs and redirects.
• Addresses an issue that causes the Microsoft Windows Search Indexer (searchindexer.exe) to add or repair required access control lists (ACLs) without checking if ACLs exist.
• Addresses an issue that causes a device to repeatedly go into the Windows Out Of Box Experience (OOBE) restart loop in certain situations.
• Addresses an issue with syncing settings from the Accounts page when the "Continue experiences on this device" Group Policy is disabled.
• Addresses an issue that prevents software Indirect Display drivers from being signed with more than one certificate.
• Addresses an issue with a memory leak in ctfmon.exe that occurs when you refresh an application that has an editable box.
• Addresses an issue that, in some instances, prevents the Language Bar from appearing when the user signs in to a new session. This occurs even though the Language Bar is configured properly.
• Addresses an issue that causes the touch keyboard to close when you select any key.
• Addresses an issue that prevents users from reducing the size of a window in some cases.
• Addresses an issue that changes the user-customized order of tiles in the Start menu even though the layout is locked or partially locked.
• Addresses an issue with incorrect permissions on a user's class registry keys that might prevent users that have local or roaming user profiles from opening files, links, and applications.
• Addresses an issue that causes the Settings page to close unexpectedly, which prevents default applications from being set properly.
• Addresses an issue that causes Windows Search to close unexpectedly when a Group Policy applies sub-groups to the Start menu layout.
• Addresses an issue with the multifactor unlock policy of Windows Hello for Business that fails to show the default option to sign in on Windows 10 devices.
• Addresses an issue that prevents a remote PowerShell session job from reporting that the session on the target machine has ended.
• Addresses an issue with a handle leak in the EnableTraceEx2() function.
• Addresses an issue that prevents Internet Explorer from opening when Microsoft User Experience Virtualization (UE-V) is being used to roam many favorites.
• Improves the reliability of the UE-V AppMonitor.
• Addresses an issue that might prevent a user's settings from syncing across devices.
• Addresses an issue that causes the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS) process to stop working when you sign in using an updated user principal name (UPN) (for example, changing UserN@contoso.com to User.Name@contoso.com). The error code is, "0xc0000005 (STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION)."
• Addresses an issue with unsigned program files that will not run when Windows Defender Application Control is in Audit Mode, but will allow unsigned images to run.
• Addresses an issue that might cause the Print Management console to display script errors when you enable the Extended View option.
• Addresses an issue with the Always On Virtual Private Network (VPN) that fails to remove the Name Resolution Policy Table (NRPT) rules after you disconnect.
• Addresses an issue with AppContainer firewall rules that leak when guest users or mandatory user profile users sign in and sign out from Windows Server.
• Addresses an issue that causes some systems to stop responding when operating embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC) storage devices.
• Addresses an issue with ntdsutil.exe that prevents you from moving Active Directory database files. The error is, "Move file failed with source [[ original_full_db_path ]] and Destination [[ new_full_db_path ]] with error 5 (Access is denied.)"
• Addresses an issue in which netdom.exe fails to correctly identify trust relationships when an unconstrained delegation is explicitly enabled by adding bitmask 0x800 to the trust object. The bitmask setting is required because of security changes to the default behavior of unconstrained delegations in Windows updates released on or after July 8, 2019. For more information, see KB4490425 and 6.1.6.7.9 trustAttributes.
• Addresses an issue that uses an incorrect number of bytes to perform backups across partitions; this causes backups to fail even when there is adequate space.
• Addresses an issue with evaluating the compatibility status of the Windows ecosystem to help ensure application and device compatibility for all updates to Windows.
• Addresses an issue with the Windows Out of Box Experience (OOBE) phase of setup for a new device. When you use the Input Method Editor (IME) for Chinese, Japanese, or Korean languages, you might not be able to create a local user account.
• Addresses an issue that corrupts a log file when a storage volume is full and data is still being written to the Extensible Storage Engine Technology (ESENT) database.
• Addresses an issue that might cause the Application Virtualization (App-V) Streaming Driver (appvstr.sys) to leak memory when you enable Shared Content Store (SCS) mode.
• Improves the performance of block cloning for the Resilient File System (ReFS) in scenarios that involve a large number of operations on ReFS-cloned files.

The complete release notes from Microsoft include a list of the update's highlights, a list of known issues, and a guide to receive the update.

What you need to know

• The Windows 10 19H2 Update will officially be called the Windows 10 November 2019 Update.
• Microsoft is in the final stages of prepping the Windows 10 November 2019 Update for release.
• Windows 10 Build 18363.418 is believed to be the final build.

The Windows 10 19H2 Update will officially be known as the Windows 10 November 2019 Update. Microsoft shared the name in a new blog post and explained that the update is in its final steps before an official release.

The naming is not that surprising considering when the Update is being released. In the past, Microsoft used a naming structured that relied on seasons such as the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update but switched to a format with a month in the name to reduce confusion in a previous update.

People at Microsoft believe that Windows 10 build 18363.418 is the final build. This build is already available to Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Ring.

Windows 10 19H2: What is it, and what's included?

The November 2019 Update is different than Microsoft's usual major updates. Instead of requiring a large download and being delivered through a standalone release, the November 2019 Update will be delivered just like a normal Patch Tuesday release. The November 2019 Update doesn't have as many new features as previous major updates. Instead, it focuses on fixing bugs, improving performance, and introducing minor new features.

What you need to know

• A new cumulative update is now available for devices running the Windows 10 May 2019 Update.
• This update pushes the build number to 18362.329.
• The release helps Win32 apps work better with Windows Mixed Reality.

Microsoft pushed out a new cumulative update for devices running the Windows 10 May 2019 Update. As is the case with all cumulative releases, it doesn't contain any new features. Instead, it brings bug fixes and corrects issues present in previous builds.

This update has a relatively short list of highlights. The new build "Improves the user experience and app compatibility so that more Win32 apps will work with Windows Mixed Reality" according to the Microsoft support page breaking down all of the changes in the build. It also addresses issues with Spatial Audio, downloading copyrighted material through Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer, and the cursor not appearing when you select a text input box using touch.

Below is the list of all fixes and addressed issues.

• Addresses an issue that displays a black screen when you use Remote Desktop to connect to a machine running Windows 10, version 1903.
• Addresses an issue that may prevent the Windows Sandbox from starting with the error, "ERROR_FILE_NOT_FOUND (0x80070002)." This occurs on devices in which the operating system language is changed during the update process when installing Windows 10, version 1903.
• Increases the number of supported interrupts per device to 512 on systems that have x2APIC enabled.
• Addresses an issue that prevents some Trusted Platform Module (TPM) devices from being used for Next Generation Credentials.
• Addresses an issue that causes a workstation to stop working when you sign in using an updated user principal name (UPN) (for example, changing UserN@contoso.com to User.Name@contoso.com).
• Addresses an issue that prevents Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) from running automated forensic data collection when using registry-based proxy configuration.
• Addresses an issue that prevents Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) from sending cyberspace events for paths beginning with \tsclient.
• Addresses a possible compatibility issue when Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) accesses case-sensitive Server Message Block (SMB) shares.
• Addresses a rare issue that occurs when the mssecflt.sys driver takes too much space on the kernel stack. This results in the error, "STOP 0x7F: UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAP", and Parameter 1 is set to "EXCEPTION_DOUBLE_FAULT."
• Addresses an issue that leads to excessive memory utilization in Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP).
• Improves the detection accuracy of Microsoft Defender ATP Threat & Vulnerability Management.
• Addresses an issue in which Windows Defender Application Control will not allow third-party binaries to be loaded from a Universal Windows Platform application. CodeIntegrity event error 3033 appears as, "Code Integrity determined that a process ( [[ process name ]] ) attempted to load [[ binary name ]] that did not meet the Store signing level requirements."
• Addresses an issue that causes devices to have truncated device names when Autopilot provisioning automatically assigns a name to them.
• Addresses an issue in which the product description of Windows Server 2019 was incorrect when queried using slmgr /dlv.
• Addresses an issue that causes the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) class Win32_PhysicalMemory to report that 32 GB memory chips have a missing Capacity value.
• Addresses an issue that prevents you from copying and pasting compound documents (formerly OLE objects) between an application that hosts the RichEdit control and other applications.
• Addresses an issue that prevents certain games from leveraging Spatial Audio capabilities.
• Addresses an issue that fails to provide a cursor when you select a text input element using touch.
• Addresses an issue that may cause the name of an unsupported application to appear as default text, such as "ms-resource:AppName/Text" in the Start menu after upgrading the operating system.
• Addresses an issue that may prevent the personal identification number (PIN) prompt from appearing when authenticating in Internet Explorer.
• Addresses an issue with downloading digital rights management (DRM) files from certain websites using Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer.
• Improves the user experience and app compatibility so that more Win32 apps will work with Windows Mixed Reality.
• Addresses an issue with LdapPermissiveModify requests, which fail to make Active Directory (AD) group membership changes if the Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) client uses the Security Identifier (SID) syntax. In this scenario, Active Directory returns a "SUCCESS" status even though the change did not occur.
• Addresses an issue that may prevent devices from starting when they start up using Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) images from Windows Deployment Services (WDS) or System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM). The error is, "Status: 0xc0000001, Info: A required device isn't connected or can't be accessed."
• Addresses an issue that may prevent devices from starting up or cause them to continue restarting if they are connected to a domain that is configured to use MIT Kerberos realms. Domain controllers and domain members are both affected.
• Addresses an issue that may cause the following to stop responding:
• Applications that were made using Visual Basic 6 (VB6).
• Macros that use Visual Basic for Applications (VBA).
• Scripts or apps that use Visual Basic Scripting Edition (VBScript).

If you're running the Windows 10 May 2019 Update, you can grab these fixes now via Windows Update. Manual updates are also available through the Microsoft Update Catalog.

What you need to know

• The latest Windows 10 Patch Tuesday Update is failing to install for some users.
• Other users report their PCs randomly restarting following the update.
• The issues seem to only affect a small subset of users.

Several users have run into issues involving the August 2019 cumulative updates for Windows 10 (via Windows Latest). The update failed to install for some users while others experienced random restarts following the update.

Users on a Reddit thread and on a Microsoft community forum reported that the update failed to install on their PCs. Several error messages appeared during failed installations including 0x800f0982, 0xe0000100, and 0x80073701.

In addition to the update failing to install, some users on Reddit reported that their PCs are randomly restarting. Some Reddit comments state that the issue has been present since Windows 10 version 1903 while others mentioned specifically on a thread for the most recent cumulative update without stating if the error occurred before the update.

These issues seem to affect a small subset of users based on how many people are reporting the issue, but it's unclear how many devices are affected.

What you need to know

• A vulnerability could allow attackers to access information stored in a system's protected kernel memory.
• All Windows PCs with an Intel processor built after 2012 are affected.
• A security patch is available to address the problem and has already rolled out through July's Patch Tuesday.

A newly found vulnerability puts all Windows PCs with an Intel processor built after 2012 at risk (via ZDNet). The side-channel attack can bypass protections that were put in place to protect devices from the Spectre and Meltdown exploits. A bug fix to the issue rolled out as part of July Patch Tuesday. Devices that have delayed the update or that are unsupported are still at risk.

The bug exploits SWAPGS, and as a result has gained the name SWAPGSAttack. If an attacker successfully utilized SWAPGSAttack, they could monitor and steal sensitive information without being noticed or leaving a trace. Bitdefender has a post explaining the vulnerability and has published a whitepaper on it. The post explains how an attack taking advantage of this vulnerability is unique.

Bogdan Botezatu, director of threat research at Bitdefender, explained in a statement to ZDNet how the vulnerability could be used by an attacker to get sensitive data, including passwords.

This type of attack is slower than some methods but can be used in situations in which an attacker has a long time.

BitDefender discovered the vulnerability and revealed it at a Black Hat session recently. Black Hat worked with Intel, Microsoft, and others to create the fix that rolled out as part of Patch Tuesday in July.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

What you need to know

• Cumulative updates are available for several versions of Windows 10.
• Windows 10 versions 1803, 1709, 1703, and 1607 all have updates.
• These are all optional updates.

Cumulative updates are available for devices running several versions of Windows 10. Windows 10 versions 1803, 1709, 1703, and 1607 all have updates (via Neowin). These updates are optional. If you'd like to update your device, you can grab the updates through Windows Update on your PC.

If you're running Windows 10 version 1803, you can update to KB4507466. That brings the build to version 17134.915. Here are the changes available:

• Updates an issue that prevents a device from recognizing a Microsoft account until you sign out and sign in again.
• Updates an issue that affects applications that manage files, folders, and device settings.
• Improves compatibility with the Window-Eyes screen reader application.
• Updates an issue to keep your App permissions settings when resetting your device.

If you're on Windows 10 version 1709, you can update to KB4507465. This brings devices up to build number 16299.1296. Here's what's included in the update:

• Updates an issue that affects applications that manage files, folders, and device settings.
• Improves compatibility with the Window-Eyes screen reader application.

Devices running Windows 10 version 1607 can update to KB4507459. This brings the build number up to 14393.3115 and comes with the following changes:

• Updates an issue that affects applications that manage files, folders, and device settings.
• Improves compatibility with the Window-Eyes screen reader application.

Lastly, if you're running Windows 10 version 1607, you can update to KB4507459 which bumps the build number to 14393.3115. This version receives the same changelog as the two versions succeeding it:

• Updates an issue that affects applications that manage files, folders, and device settings.
• Improves compatibility with the Window-Eyes screen reader application.

As always, you can read the full details of all Windows Updates on Microsoft's support site.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

What you need to know

• Windows 10 Mobile received an update through this month's "Patch Tuesday."
• The update includes some of the same fixes that shipped to Windows 10 this week.
• Windows 10 Mobile is losing official support in December 2019.

Windows 10 Mobile received an update this week as part of Microsoft's "Patch Tuesday" (via OnMSFT). The update includes some bug fixes that also shipped to Windows 10 devices this week.

The update brings Windows 10 Mobile's build to 15254.575. That build number is significantly lower than Windows 10, which has builds as high as 18362.239. Here is what the Windows 10 Mobile Update includes:

• Addresses an issue that may cause BitLocker to go into recovery mode if BitLocker is being provisioned at the same time as updates are being installed.
• Security updates to Windows Wireless Networking, Windows Server, Microsoft Scripting Engine, Windows Storage and Filesystems, Microsoft Graphics Component, Internet Explorer, Windows Input and Composition, Windows Virtualization, Windows App Platform and Frameworks, Windows Fundamentals, Windows Kernel, Microsoft Edge, and Windows Cryptography.

Windows 10 Mobile is officially losing support on December 10, 2019 according to Microsoft's Update Lifecycle page. While Windows 10 Mobile has been mostly abandoned for a while now, there are still some users using it on their primary phones.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

What you need to know

• July's "Patch Tuesday" updates are now available for Windows 10 PCs.
• The cumulative updates contain no new features, but pack several bug fixes.
• The updates are available now via Windows Update.

Microsoft's "Patch Tuesday" updates are being pushed out to Windows 10 PCs today. As is normally the case with "Patch Tuesday" updates, there are no new features. Instead, there are several updates and fixes rolling out. Updates are available for PCs running the Windows 10 May 2019 Update and older.

For anyone running the May 2019 Update, you'll pick up KB4507453. This update bumps the build number up to 18362.239. Here's what's included:

• Addresses an issue that may cause BitLocker to go into recovery mode if BitLocker is being provisioned at the same time as updates are being installed.
• Addresses an issue that may cause Mixed Reality users to see a tilted world after connecting their headsets.
• Addresses visual quality issues some users may have seen with Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) headsets and Steam®VR content.
• Security updates to Windows Wireless Networking, Microsoft Scripting Engine, Windows Server, Windows Storage and Filesystems, Windows Kernel, Microsoft HoloLens, Internet Explorer, Windows Input and Composition, Windows Virtualization, Windows App Platform and Frameworks, Microsoft Graphics Component, Microsoft Edge, and Windows Cryptography.

For PCs on the October 2018 Update, KB4507469 brings a BitLocker fix as well as some other fixes. It brings the build number to 17763.615. Here's a look:

• Addresses an issue that may cause the system to become unresponsive when an application uses the CameraCaptureUI API.
• Addresses an issue that may cause BitLocker to go into recovery mode if BitLocker is being provisioned at the same time as updates are being installed.
• Security updates to Windows Server, Microsoft Scripting Engine, Microsoft Graphics Component, Internet Explorer, Windows Input and Composition, Windows Virtualization, Windows App Platform and Frameworks, Windows Kernel, Microsoft Edge, Windows Cryptography, and Windows Fundamentals.

The April 2018 Update, meanwhile, will see KB4507435, pushing the build number to 17134.885. Here's what's included:

• Addresses an issue that may cause BitLocker to go into recovery mode if BitLocker is being provisioned at the same time as updates are being installed.
• Security updates to Windows Wireless Networking, Windows Server, Microsoft Scripting Engine, Windows Storage and Filesystems, Microsoft Graphics Component, Windows Kernel, Internet Explorer, Windows Input and Composition, Windows Virtualization, Windows App Platform and Frameworks, Microsoft Edge, Windows Cryptography, and Windows Fundamentals.

There are similar batches of fixes available for older versions of Windows 10. You can check out all of Microsoft's release notes at the Windows Support site. Otherwise, you can pick up the latest Patch Tuesday fixes by checking Windows Update now.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

What you need to know

• A new cumulative update is available for multiple versions of Windows 10.
• The update addresses the same single issue across versions.
• It fixes an issue involving Storage Area Network and iSCSI.

Updated June 27, 2019: Added release notes for the Windows 10 1903 cumulative update.

Microsoft is shipping yet another cumulative update this month (via Neowin). This update is available on multiple versions of Windows 10, including 1809, 1803, 1709, and 1703. The update addresses a single issue involving connecting Storage Area Network devices using Internet Small Computer System Interface.

• Addresses an issue that may prevent devices from connecting to some Storage Area Network (SAN) devices using Internet Small Computer System Interface (iSCSI) after installing KB4497934. You may also receive an error in the System log section of Event Viewer with Event ID 43 from iScsiPrt and a description of "Target failed to respond in time for a login request."

In addition to those updates, Microsoft has also pushed out a separate set of fixes for the Windows 10 May 2019 Update. The fixes heading out to version 1903 include the following:

• Addresses an issue that fails to display the cursor when you hover over the keyboard magnifier.
• Addresses an issue with looping redirects between Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer 11.
• Addresses an issue with Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) marker display.
• Addresses an issue with programmatic scrolling in Internet Explorer 11.
• Addresses an issue with displaying portions of a webpage that has many elements and multiple nesting levels under certain conditions in Internet Explorer.
• Addresses an issue that may cause "Error 1309" while installing or uninstalling certain types of .msi or .msp files on a virtual drive.
• Addresses an issue that may cause Night light, Color Management profiles, or gamma correction to stop working after shutting down a device.
• Addresses an issue that only shows grey scale in the camera during Windows Hello enrollment.
• Addresses an issue that may cause playback of some video content generated by iOS devices to fail.
• Addresses a desktop and taskbar flickering issue on Windows Server 2019 Terminal Server that occurs when using User Profile Disks.
• Addresses an issue that allows users to disable the sign-in background image when the "Computer\Administrative Templates\Control Panel\Personalization\Prevent changing lock screen and logon image" policy is enabled.
• Addresses a disconnection issue when using fitness software on an Android phone that has the Your Phone application installed.
• Addresses an issue that prevents the Windows Event Log service from processing notifications that the log is full. This makes event log behaviors, such as archiving the log when it reaches a maximum file size, impossible. Additionally, the Local Security Authority (LSA) cannot handle CrashOnAuditFail scenarios when the Security log is full, and events cannot be written.
• Addresses an issue that causes Office 365 applications to stop working after opening when they are deployed as App-V packages.
• Addresses an issue that may prevent Container Hosts from receiving an address from a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server.
• Addresses an issue that may prevent some upgrades from Windows 7 from completing successfully when third-party antivirus software is installed.
• Reinforces the Certificate Revocation List (CRL) on Internet Key Exchange version 2 (IKEv2) machines for certificate-based virtual private network (VPN) connections, such as Device Tunnel, in an Always On VPN deployment.
• Addresses an issue that triggers a Group Policy update even when there are no policy changes. This issue occurs when using the client-side extension (CSE) for folder redirection.
• Addresses an issue that may prevent the Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) from starting a device from a Windows Deployment Services (WDS) server configured to use Variable Window Extension. This may cause the connection to the WDS server to terminate prematurely while downloading the image. This issue does not affect clients or devices that are not using Variable Window Extension.
• Addresses an issue that may display the error, "MMC has detected an error in a snap-in and will unload it." when you try to expand, view, or create Custom Views in Event Viewer. Additionally, the application may stop responding or close. You may also receive the same error when using Filter Current Log in the Action menu with built-in views or logs.
• Addresses an issue with WinHTTP registrations that increase the registry size and delay the operating system's startup. This occurs on devices that use proxy auto-config (PAC) files to define how web browsers and agents select an appropriate proxy server. To stop the incremental growth of the registry, update the following:
  • Path: HKEY_CURRENTUSER\"Software\Classes\Localettings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppContainer\Mappings"
  • Setting: CleanupLeakedContainerRegistrations
  • Type: DWORD
  • Value: 1
  • A value of 1 removes preexisting registrations; a value of 0 (default) retains existing registrations.

You can download the latest updates through Windows Update within the Settings app. You can always see the latest notes regarding updates on Microsoft's support page.

Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love

Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.

VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)

This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.

Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)

Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.

Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)

This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.

Windows as a Service allows Microsoft to update Windows 10 on a regular basis with patches, security updates, and indeed new features. These new features arrive in the form of "major updates" that Microsoft has committed to releasing twice a year. While two major updates a year allows Microsoft to innovate and get new features out faster, it also causes a lot of headaches for the end-user.

Microsoft's latest feature update for Windows 10, known as the April 2018 update, has proven exceptionally problematic for a lot of users. Users across the web have been struggling with issues around dedicated GPUs, Bluetooth connectivity, notifications that wrongly alert the user of low storage, and a whole lot more. Of course, no update is perfect, but the April 2018 update seems much more buggy than previous feature updates to Windows 10 have been.

I've never suffered from any major issues with previous features updates, but with the April update I've hit numerous problems that have made using my PCs difficult or impossible. For example, my Surface Book 2 is suffering from constant lag when switching tabs or closing windows. It makes using the device almost impossible. I was originally also suffering from Bluetooth connection issues on my Surface Studio, but those issues have now been resolved.

Could releasing only one major update a year improve the quality of Windows 10 feature updates? With the April update, it feels like Microsoft is struggling to ensure quality when building and testing new feature updates, as it only has a limited time to do so. With one update a year, Microsoft would have double the time to build out and test a new feature update, which would help in ensuring a higher quality release when it comes to shipping.

Let's be honest, most users don't like updates. Users especially don't like updates on Windows, which are rather intrusive and require the user to restart way too often. Not only that, but restarting to install an update takes time, which users don't want to have to sit through and deal with. That, bundled with the fact that feature updates are becoming known for causing more problems than solving them, means users just don't want to deal with Windows as a Service.

One update or two?

Cutting back to one major update a year would make updates feel a little more significant and less of a hassle, which is good for users. It's not like Windows 10 users would be any less secure either, because with Patch Tuesday Microsoft keeps Windows 10 up to date anyway. The only downside to cutting back to one release a year would be that it means Microsoft and users have to wait longer for a new feature to show up.

That becomes problematic if Microsoft is unable to ship a feature in time for release. Right now, if a feature misses its deadline, it's only another six months before that feature is shipping for users to enjoy. Cutting back to one update a year would mean it's a whole 12 months before that feature is rolling out to users. But, would that be so bad in the grand scheme of things? Most users really don't care. The only users that do care are Insiders, who can get new builds early anyway.

I really think that Microsoft needs to focus on improving the reputation of Windows as a Service rather than forcing users to get used to it via frequent updates. Ensure these updates are stable, more so than the current releases, and make people excited about new feature updates again. I really think one major update to Windows 10 a year is enough. It's common enough so that new features show up in a timely manner, but not too common in that it becomes a nuisance.

It also gives Microsoft more time to make sure a feature update is stable, with as little bugs as possible. And that's the most important part.

Microsoft has today detailed improvements it has made to the Windows 10 update model that has reduced the time it takes to install a Windows 10 feature update by an incredible 63 percent since the Creators Update launch this time last year. Before, the downtime between rebooting to install an update and being able to use your PC again was, on average, an 82 minute endeavour. Now, it's an average of just 30 minutes.

In a blog post on the Windows Insider site, Microsoft details how it has changed up the update model by keeping a lot more of the install process "online" instead of "offline." The "online" phase refers to the part of the install process where the PC is still usable. In the past, only a small portion of the install process was done during the online phase, with most of the work happening in the offline part where the user could not use their PC.

Now, Microsoft has moved several steps in the install process over to the online phase, which means users won't be interrupted for long periods of time, as the update is now installing a lot more of itself during PC use. As such, the offline phase time has been reduced significantly, so that users can get back up and running on their PC sooner. This is a huge deal in the update process for Microsoft and for users who hate installing updates.

This means that although the offline portion of the install process is faster, the online part is actually a little slower. This isn't a huge deal, however, as most users aren't waiting around for an update to install in the background when they're using their PC. The only time a user should really know an update is ready to install is when the PC is ready to reboot, in which case Microsoft needs to minimize the time between that reboot and the PC coming back online. That's why Microsoft is focused on speeding up the offline phase of the update.

The Windows 10 Spring Creators Update is launching this April, and users will be able to experience first hand the new and improved Windows 10 install speeds. What are your thoughts on the improved Windows Update? Let us know in the comments!

If you've ever been downloading a Windows 10 update, only for the download to be interrupted before it's completed, you'll know exactly how frustrating that situation can be. It's especially problematic for those with slower internet connections or data caps, given that major updates – like the Fall Creators Update that Microsoft released in October – are several gigabytes in size. It's a problem that Microsoft is keenly aware of, but it's working on a solution.

Currently, if the download is prematurely severed – for example, if your connection drops or the battery on your laptop dies – Windows Update will force you to restart the download from scratch later on. But Windows Insider Program chief Dona Sarkar revealed today to Windows Central that the company is planning improvements that will enable users to resume interrupted downloads instead of starting over.

Dona wasn't ready to commit to a specific timeframe for that feature, but it's certainly good to know that it's on the roadmap. Microsoft previously made major improvements to how it distributes updates with the launch of its Unified Update Platform last year, which reduced the size of its OS updates by more than a third.

Dona said that the decision to introduce the upcoming "resume download" feature was heavily influenced by Microsoft's experiences with its Windows Insiders4Good Fellowship programs. The company has been working with local entrepreneurs across Africa over the last two years, gaining fresh insights into the needs of users in "occasionally connected" markets, where internet access is often more limited and more costly than in developed nations.

Microsoft is now rolling out this months Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 10 PCs. This months Patch Tuesday, much like previous Patch Tuesdays, includes bug fixes and security patches. There are no new features included with this update. The update itself is rolling out as KB4074588 on the Fall Creators Update, and bumps the build number to 16299.248. Here's what's changed!

Changelog

• Addresses issue where child accounts are able to access InPrivate mode on ARM devices even though their browsing and search history is sent to their parents. This occurs only on Microsoft accounts belonging to children that are managed using the Microsoft Family service and for which parents have enabled activity reporting. This applies to Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer.
• Addresses issue with docking and undocking Internet Explorer windows.
• Addresses issue in Internet Explorer where pressing the delete key inserted a new line in input boxes in an application.
• Addresses issue in Internet Explorer where selected elements wouldn't update under certain circumstances.
• Addresses issue where some users may have experienced issues logging into some websites when using third-party account credentials in Microsoft Edge.
• Updates time zone information.
• Addresses issue with browser Compatibility View settings that occurs during updates.
• Addresses issue where, in certain hardware configurations, the frame rates of DirectX Games were unintentionally limited to a factor of the display's vertical synchronization.
• Addresses issue that causes delays when switching keyboard languages using Alt+Shift.
• Addresses issue where surround sound audio endpoints reverted to stereo after restarting.
• Improves and reduces conditions where certain Bluetooth keyboards drop keys during reconnection scenarios.
• Corrects mouse delays for devices that incorrectly report the battery level status.
• Addresses issue where MMC application snap-ins—such as Services, Local Policy Admin, and Printer Management—fail to run when Windows Defender Application Control (Device Guard) is turned on. The error is "Object doesn't support this property or method".
• Prevents use of the Pre-production Onesettings endpoint for Windows Setup when test signing is enabled.
• Addresses issue where installations of Windows Server, version 1709 are not automatically activated using the Automated Virtual Machine Activation (AVMA) feature on Hyper-V hosts that have been activated.
• Addresses issue with the Auto-register Inbox templates feature for UEV where the Scheduled Task didn't have the proper trigger.
• Addresses issue where the App-V client didn't read the policy for SyncOnBatteriesEnabled when the policy was set using a Group Policy Object (GPO).
• Addresses issue where the Supported On field for the Enable App-V Client policy is blank in the Group Policy editor.
• Addresses issue where the user's hive data in the registry is not maintained correctly when some App-V packages belong to the connection group.
• Provides additional logging for administrators to take action, such as picking a proper configuration for their App-V package, when there are multiple configuration files for a single package.
• Addresses issue with App-V packages that aren't compatible with registry virtualization using kernel containers. To address the issue, we changed the registry virtualization to use the earlier (non-container) method by default.
• Security updates to Microsoft Scripting Engine, Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Windows Search component, Windows Kernel, Windows Authentication, Device Guard, Common Log File System driver, and the Windows storage and file systems.

The update is also rolling out on older supported versions of Windows, including Windows 7, Windows 8.x and older versions of Windows 10. You can grab the updates now via Windows Update!

Microsoft is rolling out new Patch Tuesday updates for September on PC and Mobile today. This months patches bring Windows 10 up to build 16299.125 on PC. This weeks patches include a number of new fixes and under the hood enhancements. The update on PC is rolling out as KB4054517, with the Mobile update referring to itself as "2017-12 update for Windows 10."

Changelog

• Updates Internet Explorer's default visibility for the button that launches Microsoft Edge.
• Addresses issue where Windows Defender Device Guard and Application Control block some applications from running, even in Audit-Only Enforcement Mode.
• Addresses issue to reset PLC bit on U0/U3 transitions.
• Addresses issue with personalized Bluetooth devices that don't support bonding.
• Addresses issue where the touch keyboard doesn't support the standard layout for 88 languages.
• Addresses issue where the touch keyboard for a third-party Input Method Editor (IME) has no IME ON/OFF key.
• Addresses additional issues with updated time zone information.
• Addresses issue where, when using System Center Virtual Machine Manager (VMM), the user can't copy or clone virtual machines (VM). The error message is "0x80070057- Invalid parameter". This issue affects the VMM UI and PowerShell scripts used for VM cloning and copying.
• Security updates to the Microsoft Scripting Engine, Microsoft Edge, and Windows Server.

The updates are rolling out now for users in the Release Preview ring and Production ring. Make sure you check for updates to get them downloaded, or wait for Windows Update to automatically download them soon.

When Windows 10 launched back in 2015, it quickly became apparent that Microsoft's new Windows Update system was a little forceful when it came to restarts, giving the user no choice outside of a warning that a restart would soon be taking place, along with unnecessarily large feature updates. This new update method was heavily criticized by the media and users, so much so that with the Windows 10 Creators Update Microsoft made several improvements that make Windows Update much more bearable.

Starting with the Creators Update, users will have much more control over when Windows should restart when an update is pending. No longer will Windows force you to restart at a specific time, giving the user the option to either snooze the pending update for later or manually pick a time for installation. You can't hold off the update forever, but you can delay it much more so than you could previously. So updates should no longer get in your way if you're in the middle of streaming a video game or rendering a video.

No longer will Windows force a restart when you're in the middle of using your PC. As one of the biggest complaints from Insiders, this is an excellent change and one that I'm sure many will appreciate. In addition to the improved restart control, Microsoft also extended Active Hours up to 18 hours, meaning users can tell Windows that it should never install updates for up to 18 hours in a day.

Unified Update Platform

The biggest change to Windows Update isn't a feature on the surface, but rather a change that happens behind the scenes. Before, with new feature updates, Windows 10 would download a full 3GB file no matter what the changes. This wasn't the case for smaller, monthly updates, but for the twice-a-year feature updates, 3GB is a pretty big size. With the Creators Update, Microsoft improved the download sizes for feature updates, making them up to 35 percent smaller.

This is most beneficial for users with slow or limited internet, or people on machines with a low amount of storage. Feature updates should be far smaller than they were previously thanks to what Microsoft is calling the "Unified Update Platform" (UUP) that it's using across PC and Mobile. Another benefit of UUP is quicker checking for update times, which is nice.

You can also completely pause updates from downloading and installing for up to seven days. This is only supposed to be used when an update is causing issues on your machine, but you can turn it on at any time if you need it. After the seven days are up, Windows 10 will require you to check for updates and then install them if they're available before you can pause updates for seven days again.

Microsoft made a lot of necessary improvements to Windows Update with Windows 10, so much so that most people shouldn't have any issues with it anymore. If you're someone who likes turning updates off completely, Windows 10 is not for you. Microsoft still doesn't allow you to turn off updates on Windows 10, and that's probably for the best. With the "Windows as a Service" module in full swing, the goal for Microsoft is to leave no user behind when new versions of Windows are available. Because of this, you can't turn off updates, but you can delay them and control them easier with the Creators Update.

The Windows 10 Creators Update will be officially available starting April 11.

When the Windows 10 Creators Update lands later this spring, it will include more granular controls over the timing and delivery of Windows Updates. In a new blog post, Microsoft has provided some more detail on these changes ahead of their general rollout to the public.

In an effort to combat unexpected restarts that could throw a kink in your workflow, the Creators Update will now include multiple options for quickly scheduling or delaying updates. One of the most prominent is a new "snooze" feature that works just like it sounds. When an update is ready to be installed, you'll see an alert that will let you restart now to install, pick a different time to install, or pause the updates for 3 days by tapping the "snooze" button. Microsoft is also widening the "Active Hours" windows, allowing you to put off regular update times further.

Seeing if your machine is up to date will be easier in the Creators Update, too:

When taken as a whole, these new features should go a long way towards addressing complaints about forced updates interrupting whatever you happening to be doing at the time. These tweaks have been in the hands of Insiders for a while now, but as the Creators Update continues to wind down development and move towards a public release, they'll be in the hands of many more before too long.

Samsung is now promising to reverse its previous stance and will soon allow its Windows-based laptops to received direct updates to the operating system via Microsoft's Windows Update. This news comes a few days after a security researcher found that Samsung's SW Updater, installed in its laptops, had disabled Windows Update by default.

While Samsung at first denied the claims that its software was blocking updates to Windows from its laptops, it now appears that there's been a change of heart. In a statement sent to Gizmodo, the company stated:

Source: Samsung

All Samsung laptops come with a tool called SW Updater that checks for any updates to bloatware that comes pre-installed, along with driver and software updates. While such utilities are available from most vendors, what's unique about Samsung's SW Updater is that it was found to disable Windows Update, preventing Microsoft's default updater tool from finding new updates.

A researcher discovered the problem while debugging Samsung's utility, finding a program called "Disable_Windowsupdate.exe" that constantly monitors the Windows registry to block access to Windows Update. Even if you manually enabled Windows Update, Samsung's program was found to prevent access to the utility after every system restart. The researcher confronted a Samsung customer service representative to confirm that the manufacturer was indeed blocking Windows Update:

Samsung's move to block Windows Update could just be a measure to ensure that any system updates rolled out by Microsoft don't break Samsung-centric bloatware. If you're using a Samsung laptop, all you need to do is uninstall SW Updater and enable Windows Update to continue receiving updates in a timely fashion. Coming on the heels of Lenovo's Superfish incident, this is just another reason why manufacturers should re-consider filling up brand-new machines with bloatware.

Source: BSOD Analysis; Via: Gizmodo

The first minor update heading to Windows 8.1, known as Update 1, is suspected to be bringing more unity between the legacy desktop and newer Windows 8 application environment. In recently leaked screenshots by hacker WZor, we were able to take a brief look at the ability to pin Windows Store applications to your taskbar. The update previously rumored to be coming out this March, has received more confirmation – including an exact date.

According to technology journalist, Marry Jo Foley and her sources, the Windows 8.1 Update 1 will be released as part of a Patch Tuesday update through Windows Update. The exact date, said to be provided by her “accurate and trusted sources,” is March 11. Between WZor confirming March for the launch month and Marry Jo Foley now confirming the date – we believe the information is highly accurate.

In addition to being able to pin Windows 8 applications to your desktop’s taskbar, additional screenshots have begun to show the ability to display thumbnail previews of the running application along with the ability to close the apps directly from the desktop via a “close box”.

For fans of the Windows Phone operating system (essentially, everyone reading this article), the date of March 11 places the Windows desktop update only a few weeks before the Windows Phone 8.1 update is supposed to kick off. While the times are still possibly weeks apart, we are beginning to see a unification of update release dates between the two operating systems.

For those of you who are excited that a closer releases date might mean the two operating systems are closer together in terms of programmer aspects, Mary Jo Foley reports that her sources make it sounds as if “there won’t be application programming interface changes made to Windows 8.1 Update 1 to bring it into closer alignment with Windows Phone 8.1”. It doesn’t take rocket scientists from NASA to figure out that the two separate operating systems are beginning to catch up and converge, but we still won’t be there this March.

In regards to what is being called the “Mini Start Menu”, which is rumored to appear in a future Windows update, Mary Jo Foley states that she heard nothing on the topic and believes it to “show up some time in the next 12 months” – possibly as Windows 8.1 Update 2 or Windows 9.

Windows 8.1 Update 1 should be just around the corner, so sit tight and it will be here soon.

Source: ZDNet

If you are the proud (or disappointed) owner of a first generation Microsoft Surface Pro, then you might want to check Windows Update for a new firmware updates that are available today. The new updates for the Surface Pro improve compatibility with the second generation Type and Touch Covers.

The new firmware updates, numbered 1.0.279.0 and 1.0.280.0, fix issues in which the newer Covers being used on the first generation Surface Pro caused stability issues. There should be no more worry about inaccurate typing or less than perfect touchpads after you load up the latest patches.

If you don’t feel like waiting for Windows to automatically grab the update for you, feel free to grab it yourself via the Windows Updated. To do so, simply open the Charms Bar [WIN+C], select “Settings”, select “Change PC Settings”, and then select “Windows Update”.

Let us know if any of the firmware updates have fixed issues for yours Surface Pro and Microsoft’s high-tech keyboard covers.

Source: Microsoft

Yesterday, Microsoft announced that new updates for their Surface tablet devices were being pushed. The updates being pushed include Wi-Fi connectivity improvements, a new Surface USB to Ethernet adapter driver, a collection of improvements for both the Touch and Type Covers, an updated LifeCam driver, and new device firmware.

Microsoft has been hard at work trying to create the best internet browsing experience for their Surface users; Brian Hall, General Manager for Microsoft Surface, stated that the new Wi-Fi driver will reduce the chances of your connection falling into “limited connectivity” from the Surface side.

The new Surface USB to Ethernet driver will allow users to PXE boot their devices with a direct Ethernet connection. While most consumers don’t know what PXE is, enterprise admins will be thrilled. Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE) allows machines to boot their operating systems from a network, which can be useful for managing a large scale of Windows machines in a corporate environment.

Updates to the Touch and Type Covers aim to improve accuracy and typing performance. According to Brian, “Touch and Type Cover are now even better at catching every single keystroke wherever you’re typing.”

The previously mentioned hotkeys for the Surface are now active, allowing users to emulate specific keys with a combination press including: Print Screen, Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down.

Updates to the Surface LifeCam is said to improve image clarity in low light conditions; get ready to Skype in a dark room - because now you can. The driver is also said to improve performance and reliability when switching between the built in LifeCam and an externally attached webcam.

Finally, a firmware update has been pushed to the Surface RT model in an attempt to boost the max volume the speakers can output. For those of you who don’t use a Bluetooth speaker or wired headset when working with your Surface - you can now enjoy Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Instant Video a bit more.

The Surface update should be landing on your device soon (if it already hasn’t). To manually check for the update: open you charms bar, select “Settings”, then select “More PC Settings”, finally select “Windows Update”.

How many of our readers carry a Microsoft Surface – are you enjoying it?

Source: Surface Blog

Windows 8 is done, recently reaching RTM and tomorrow some folks will be lucky enough to get their hands on the final code. Word from a few prominent bloggers is that Microsoft may not quite be finished with WinRT just yet.  Suggestion is that MS maybe moving to update the WinRT environment faster than the current three-year cycle dictates.

If this rumour were true then it would mean a major break with updating policy from Microsoft. WinRT is functionally still a long way from complete, a series of rapid updates could do much to fill in the gaps. Although haven’t we heard the promise of rapid updates somewhere before?

Microsoft are a company with a long tradition of major software releases, Windows normally gets updated roughly every three years. There has only been one instance where Windows received new features, when MS were forced to fix the deep security issues with XP. After that service packs have been just that, a roll up of hotfixes. If Mary Jo Foley and Paul Thurrott are correct then Microsoft could be preparing a series of feature updates, starting under the codename “Blue”. Word is that could arrive by summer 2013, certainly not shockingly rapid but that alone would form a real change in how Windows is moved forward.

Essentials was also said to get rapid updates...

Quickly updating software has been talked about before, recently I wrote about Windows Essentials 2012, a software suite that was once part of Windows. That was plucked from Vista and made into a standalone package. The intention was of rapidly updating it outside of the normal Windows three-year update cycle. Essentials never really got those quick fire updates, much to the disappointment of many users.  

Windows Phone, inital updates were touted to be rapid fire too..

If you were a customer of Windows Phone from day one then you too might have heard very similar rumblings about regular iterative updates. You know, to bring a new platform up to speed with things like multi-tasking, copy and paste? Well, unfortunately, Windows Phone didn’t quite get those lightning fast updates, but it has been updated more frequently than once every three years. If a Blue feature pack is to arrive next summer then that’s a year after RTM, not bad for Windows but is that quick enough?

The fact remains that WinRT, like Windows Phone 1.0 is not quite complete, Microsoft must move to get this updated quickly. As this OS is very much aimed at consumers, there shouldn’t be any real issues with business complaining about retraining for any new features that are added. Without business pouring cold water on big feature changes, MS could go wild with some fundamental UI re-working. Consumers love seeing new features, they feel it adds value to their purchase over time and makes them much more likely to accept updates. Rapid updates are desirable but for Windows 8 they are essential to ensure that WinRT is up to the job of becoming the only UI users ever need to see and use. Until WinRT offers the same level of control as Windows Explorer, it makes it impossible to move entirely over to the new environment.

Question is, can Microsoft change its spots and get updates out of the door quickly? WinRT currently lacks many of the essential control panel items to allow it to replace the explorer this alone could allow the ditching of the classic desktop. Features such a WinRT multi monitor support would go down well too.

Very interested to know what you guys think. Any features or changes you feel it needs? Have you heard this once too many times from Microsoft? Is it about time Microsoft just switched from the three-year update cycle from Windows? We would love to know, comment bellow.

Source: zdnet