<![CDATA[Geeks for your information - Microsoft Windows News]]>

<![CDATA[Geeks for your information - Microsoft Windows News]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:17:28 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Microsoft Rolls Out Windows Update to Reduce Forced Restarts and Extend Pause Limits]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21918 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 11:36:35 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21918 Quote:Microsoft is rolling out updates to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Experimental channels, with plans to make these changes more broadly available later. The updates aim to give users more control over when updates are installed and to reduce the number of restarts needed each month.

This update comes after Microsoft reviewed over 7,600 pieces of direct user feedback, gathered by Aria Hanson. The feedback revealed two main issues: updates disrupting users at inconvenient times and a lack of control over installation schedules.

Repeatable Pause Controls And Separated Restart Options

Windows Update now allows users to pause updates for up to 35 days through a flyout calendar interface that enables them to choose a specific end date. The pause can be extended multiple times without a fixed overall limit. The current system limits how long updates can be deferred before the option is disabled.

The Power menu now differentiates between regular power options and those related to updates. Restart and shut down options can be used without triggering a pending update installation. The options "Update and Restart" and "Update and Shut Down" will still appear when updates are ready, providing users with a clear choice rather than having updates automatically apply on shutdown.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft is rolling out updates to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Experimental channels, with plans to make these changes more broadly available later. The updates aim to give users more control over when updates are installed and to reduce the number of restarts needed each month.

This update comes after Microsoft reviewed over 7,600 pieces of direct user feedback, gathered by Aria Hanson. The feedback revealed two main issues: updates disrupting users at inconvenient times and a lack of control over installation schedules.

Repeatable Pause Controls And Separated Restart Options

Windows Update now allows users to pause updates for up to 35 days through a flyout calendar interface that enables them to choose a specific end date. The pause can be extended multiple times without a fixed overall limit. The current system limits how long updates can be deferred before the option is disabled.

The Power menu now differentiates between regular power options and those related to updates. Restart and shut down options can be used without triggering a pending update installation. The options "Update and Restart" and "Update and Shut Down" will still appear when updates are ready, providing users with a clear choice rather than having updates automatically apply on shutdown.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 April 2026 Update KB5083769 Is Triggering BitLocker Recovery Screens on So]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21889 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 06:41:44 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21889 Quote:Microsoft has confirmed that the April 2026 security update for Windows 11, KB5083769, released on April 14, is causing some devices to boot directly into the BitLocker recovery screen instead of the desktop. Affected users need to enter their BitLocker recovery key before the system can start normally.

Microsoft says this is a one-time issue and that future restarts should proceed normally once the key is entered. The problem appears to affect only devices with a specific combination of BitLocker and Secure Boot settings, and most users installing the update are not affected.

What Triggers the Issue

The BitLocker recovery prompt appears on a device when several conditions are met:

BitLocker is enabled on the operating system drive, the Group Policy setting for configuring the TPM platform validation profile includes PCR7 in the validation profile
System Information shows "Secure Boot State PCR7 Binding" as "Not Possible." Additionally, the UEFI CA 2023 certificate must be present in the Secure Boot Signature Database, and the device should not already be running the 2023-signed Windows Boot Manager

Microsoft considers this an "unrecommended" BitLocker configuration that can trigger this behavior.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has confirmed that the April 2026 security update for Windows 11, KB5083769, released on April 14, is causing some devices to boot directly into the BitLocker recovery screen instead of the desktop. Affected users need to enter their BitLocker recovery key before the system can start normally.

Microsoft says this is a one-time issue and that future restarts should proceed normally once the key is entered. The problem appears to affect only devices with a specific combination of BitLocker and Secure Boot settings, and most users installing the update are not affected.

What Triggers the Issue

The BitLocker recovery prompt appears on a device when several conditions are met:

BitLocker is enabled on the operating system drive, the Group Policy setting for configuring the TPM platform validation profile includes PCR7 in the validation profile
System Information shows "Secure Boot State PCR7 Binding" as "Not Possible." Additionally, the UEFI CA 2023 certificate must be present in the Secure Boot Signature Database, and the device should not already be running the 2023-signed Windows Boot Manager

Microsoft considers this an "unrecommended" BitLocker configuration that can trigger this behavior.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[New Windows 11 Dev Build Improves Secure Boot Monitoring and Storage Controls]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21881 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:59:55 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21881 Quote:Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170 to the Dev Channel, introducing notable improvements to Secure Boot visibility, storage management, and the Feedback Hub experience.

The most security-relevant update in this build is a revamped Secure Boot experience within the Windows Security app.

Navigating to Windows Security > Device Security > Secure Boot now displays color-coded icon badges green, yellow, and red alongside descriptive text that reflects the device’s current Secure Boot state and certificate status.

This update is directly tied to Microsoft’s ongoing rollout of updated Secure Boot certificates for consumer devices and select business PCs.

Users can now proactively verify whether their device’s certificate is current and in good standing, rather than waiting for a failure notification.

By default, this enhanced view is turned off on enterprise IT-managed devices and servers to avoid disruption in managed environments.

The change provides end users and security-conscious administrators with immediate, at-a-glance visibility into a critical firmware-level security control. This area has historically lacked transparency in the Windows interface.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170 to the Dev Channel, introducing notable improvements to Secure Boot visibility, storage management, and the Feedback Hub experience.

The most security-relevant update in this build is a revamped Secure Boot experience within the Windows Security app.

Navigating to Windows Security > Device Security > Secure Boot now displays color-coded icon badges green, yellow, and red alongside descriptive text that reflects the device’s current Secure Boot state and certificate status.

This update is directly tied to Microsoft’s ongoing rollout of updated Secure Boot certificates for consumer devices and select business PCs.

Users can now proactively verify whether their device’s certificate is current and in good standing, rather than waiting for a failure notification.

By default, this enhanced view is turned off on enterprise IT-managed devices and servers to avoid disruption in managed environments.

The change provides end users and security-conscious administrators with immediate, at-a-glance visibility into a critical firmware-level security control. This area has historically lacked transparency in the Windows interface.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 Setup Now Lets You Skip the Update Installation Step]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21820 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:16:04 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21820 Quote:Microsoft has introduced a change to the Windows 11 out-of-box setup experience that lets users skip the update installation step during initial PC setup. The option is now generally available after months of testing with select groups, according to Aria, a Microsoft engineer working on Windows Update.

Previously, Windows 11 setup forced users to wait through an update process that could take up to 30 minutes, depending on the number of pending updates, resulting in total setup times of up to 40 minutes.

How the Windows 11 “Update Later” Button Works and What It Means for Future Updates

A new "update later" button now appears below the update progress bar during setup. Users who choose it will go straight to the desktop without waiting for updates to install. Aria confirmed that skipping updates means "the latest features and security fixes won't be applied until you choose to install them after reaching the desktop." Updates can still be installed manually later through Windows Update in Settings.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has introduced a change to the Windows 11 out-of-box setup experience that lets users skip the update installation step during initial PC setup. The option is now generally available after months of testing with select groups, according to Aria, a Microsoft engineer working on Windows Update.

Previously, Windows 11 setup forced users to wait through an update process that could take up to 30 minutes, depending on the number of pending updates, resulting in total setup times of up to 40 minutes.

How the Windows 11 “Update Later” Button Works and What It Means for Future Updates

A new "update later" button now appears below the update progress bar during setup. Users who choose it will go straight to the desktop without waiting for updates to install. Aria confirmed that skipping updates means "the latest features and security fixes won't be applied until you choose to install them after reaching the desktop." Updates can still be installed manually later through Windows Update in Settings.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Simplifies Windows Insider Program to Two Channels and Ends Gradual Feature]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21810 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:22:04 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21810 Quote:Microsoft has announced updates to the Windows Insider program, streamlining its channels into two main options and giving Insiders more direct control over the features they access. The company says these changes respond to feedback from Insider participants, including their first in-person meet-up, where users expressed confusion about how the current channels worked.

Two Primary Windows Insider Channels Replace Four

The current Dev, Canary, and Beta channels are being replaced by two main channels: Experimental and Beta.

The Experimental channel takes the place of the former Dev and Canary channels. Microsoft explains it as early access to features still under development, with the understanding that what appears in this channel may change, be delayed, or not be released at all.

The Beta channel replaces the previous Beta Channel and previews features that Microsoft plans to ship in the coming weeks. The key change here is that gradual feature rollouts in Beta are ending. Microsoft states that when a feature is announced in a Beta update and a user installs that update, the feature will be available on their device.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has announced updates to the Windows Insider program, streamlining its channels into two main options and giving Insiders more direct control over the features they access. The company says these changes respond to feedback from Insider participants, including their first in-person meet-up, where users expressed confusion about how the current channels worked.

Two Primary Windows Insider Channels Replace Four

The current Dev, Canary, and Beta channels are being replaced by two main channels: Experimental and Beta.

The Experimental channel takes the place of the former Dev and Canary channels. Microsoft explains it as early access to features still under development, with the understanding that what appears in this channel may change, be delayed, or not be released at all.

The Beta channel replaces the previous Beta Channel and previews features that Microsoft plans to ship in the coming weeks. The key change here is that gradual feature rollouts in Beta are ending. Microsoft states that when a feature is announced in a Beta update and a user installs that update, the feature will be available on their device.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Fixes Broken Windows 11 Start Menu Search Caused by Faulty Bing Server Upda]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21789 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:19:49 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21789 Quote:Microsoft has released a server-side fix for a known issue that affected Start Menu search on some Windows 11 23H2 devices. The problem started on April 6 and was linked to a Bing update aimed at improving search performance. Microsoft has rolled back the update and reports that search failures are decreasing as the fix takes effect.

An investigation found that the issue coincided with a server-side Bing update meant to improve search performance. To fix the problem, the update was rolled back, and reports of search failures are gradually declining, according to a Windows release health update from Microsoft.

How Microsoft’s Fix Reaches Affected Devices

Affected devices show blank or non-functional results when using the Start Menu search. Microsoft states that the issue is limited to a small number of users, but reports of similar problems have been shared online for several months. These reports include cases of blank search results that remain clickable even though they do not display any content.

No manual update installation is necessary. The fix is deployed automatically as a server-side change. Microsoft notes that two conditions must be met for the fix to apply: the device must be connected to the internet, and Web Search must not have been disabled via Group Policy. Devices that meet both conditions will receive the fix automatically.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has released a server-side fix for a known issue that affected Start Menu search on some Windows 11 23H2 devices. The problem started on April 6 and was linked to a Bing update aimed at improving search performance. Microsoft has rolled back the update and reports that search failures are decreasing as the fix takes effect.

An investigation found that the issue coincided with a server-side Bing update meant to improve search performance. To fix the problem, the update was rolled back, and reports of search failures are gradually declining, according to a Windows release health update from Microsoft.

How Microsoft’s Fix Reaches Affected Devices

Affected devices show blank or non-functional results when using the Start Menu search. Microsoft states that the issue is limited to a small number of users, but reports of similar problems have been shared online for several months. These reports include cases of blank search results that remain clickable even though they do not display any content.

No manual update installation is necessary. The fix is deployed automatically as a server-side change. Microsoft notes that two conditions must be met for the fix to apply: the device must be connected to the internet, and Web Search must not have been disabled via Group Policy. Devices that meet both conditions will receive the fix automatically.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Begins Automatic Windows 11 25H2 Rollout to Unmanaged Home and Pro Devices]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21786 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:47:53 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21786 Quote:Microsoft has begun automatically rolling out Windows 11 25H2 to unmanaged Home and Pro devices running Windows 11 24H2, according to notices posted on the Windows release health pages for both versions. The update is linked to the end of support for Windows 11 24H2, which is set for October 13, 2026.

In the 24H2 release health notice, Microsoft states: "Devices running Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 24H2 that are not managed by IT departments will receive the Windows 11, version 25H2 update automatically. You can choose when to restart your device or postpone the update."

Why Microsoft Is Forcing the 25H2 Upgrade

Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, time zone updates, or technical support after October 13, 2026. Microsoft says the automatic upgrade push aims to keep unmanaged consumer devices on a supported version before that date.

Devices managed by IT departments are not affected by the automatic upgrade, and configurations managed through organizational policies in enterprise or education settings are also excluded from the rollout.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has begun automatically rolling out Windows 11 25H2 to unmanaged Home and Pro devices running Windows 11 24H2, according to notices posted on the Windows release health pages for both versions. The update is linked to the end of support for Windows 11 24H2, which is set for October 13, 2026.

In the 24H2 release health notice, Microsoft states: "Devices running Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 24H2 that are not managed by IT departments will receive the Windows 11, version 25H2 update automatically. You can choose when to restart your device or postpone the update."

Why Microsoft Is Forcing the 25H2 Upgrade

Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, time zone updates, or technical support after October 13, 2026. Microsoft says the automatic upgrade push aims to keep unmanaged consumer devices on a supported version before that date.

Devices managed by IT departments are not affected by the automatic upgrade, and configurations managed through organizational policies in enterprise or education settings are also excluded from the rollout.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 April 2026 Update Brings Smart App Control and 7 Other Key Improvements]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21778 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:38:04 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21778 Quote:Microsoft is releasing the April 2026 security update for Windows 11 on April 14, 2026. The update applies to versions 24H2 and 25H2. It includes enhancements to Smart App Control, expanded support for Narrator image descriptions, refinements to the Settings app, fixes for File Explorer, and display improvements such as support for refresh rates above 1,000Hz.

Some features will be rolled out gradually using Controlled Feature Rollout, so not all users will see every change immediately after installing the update.

Smart App Control Changes in the April 2026 Update

[Image: eGtMPvnZK73fCXEKhsezL7-1153-80.jpg.webp]

[Image: eGtMPvnZK73fCXEKhsezL7-1153-80.jpg.webp]

(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)

Smart App Control, which restricts the system to running only trusted applications, previously needed a clean Windows installation to enable and could only be turned off by reinstalling Windows. The April update removes that requirement. The setting can now be accessed directly from Windows Security under App and Browser Control without any reinstallation needed.

Narrator Image Descriptions for Non-Copilot+ Devices

[Image: TadhFbscoTW9uNV4SKH4Eb-1024-80.jpg.webp]

[Image: TadhFbscoTW9uNV4SKH4Eb-1024-80.jpg.webp]

(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)

The Narrator's AI-powered image description feature was previously available only on Copilot+ PCs with a local AI model. The April update expands access by routing image analysis through Copilot, making the feature accessible on standard Windows 11 devices.

To activate the feature, users can use two keyboard shortcuts: pressing the Narrator key plus Ctrl plus D will describe the focused image, while pressing the Narrator key plus Ctrl plus S will describe the entire screen.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Windows 11 Update Adds Support for Display Refresh Rates Above 1,000Hz]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21698 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:55:04 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21698 Quote:Microsoft's Windows 11 preview update KB5079391, released on March 26, adds support for display refresh rates above 1,000Hz, with internal documentation confirming the limit extends to 5,000Hz. The update was removed by Microsoft on March 27 after some installation issues were found. The improvements listed are expected to be available to users in a future release.

The update applies to Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 26H1.

According to a post by Blur Busters, which was the first to identify support for 5,000Hz refresh rates, the site's founder Mark Rehjon helped convince Microsoft to raise the maximum refresh rate to that level. Microsoft's update notes simply mention support for "refresh rates above 1,000Hz" without specifying an upper limit.

Display And UI Changes In Windows 11 Update KB5079391

In addition to supporting higher refresh rates, the update brings several other changes related to display performance: It improves auto-rotation and HDR reliability, and enhances power efficiency for monitors connected via USB4

The update also introduces detailed image descriptions for Copilot and Copilot+ PCs when using Narrator. Additionally, the design of dialog boxes in the Accounts settings menu has been adjusted in the Other section.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft's Windows 11 preview update KB5079391, released on March 26, adds support for display refresh rates above 1,000Hz, with internal documentation confirming the limit extends to 5,000Hz. The update was removed by Microsoft on March 27 after some installation issues were found. The improvements listed are expected to be available to users in a future release.

The update applies to Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 26H1.

According to a post by Blur Busters, which was the first to identify support for 5,000Hz refresh rates, the site's founder Mark Rehjon helped convince Microsoft to raise the maximum refresh rate to that level. Microsoft's update notes simply mention support for "refresh rates above 1,000Hz" without specifying an upper limit.

Display And UI Changes In Windows 11 Update KB5079391

In addition to supporting higher refresh rates, the update brings several other changes related to display performance: It improves auto-rotation and HDR reliability, and enhances power efficiency for monitors connected via USB4

The update also introduces detailed image descriptions for Copilot and Copilot+ PCs when using Narrator. Additionally, the design of dialog boxes in the Accounts settings menu has been adjusted in the Other section.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Confirms Dark Mode Expansion For Windows 11 Legacy Interfaces]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21689 Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:23:48 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21689 Quote:Microsoft is continuing to expand dark mode support in Windows 11, including older system components, but has not provided a specific timeline. According to Marcus Ash, the head of Windows Design and Research, the company is actively working to bring dark mode to more areas of Windows 11, such as legacy system interfaces.

The update was shared in response to user feedback and indicates that improvements are ongoing but not yet complete. Microsoft has not announced when full dark mode coverage will be available, and some core system tools still do not support it.

How Microsoft Is Targeting Legacy UI Gaps In Windows 11 Dark Mode

Marcus Ash mentioned that Microsoft is working on improving its internal tools and techniques to better support dark mode across Windows. The efforts are particularly aimed at older system panels and dialogs that still depend on legacy interface frameworks.

Ash explained that the company is aiming for greater visual consistency as progress continues in these areas. The update confirms that expanding dark mode remains an active development focus.

A common example cited is the Windows Registry Editor, known as Regedit. Microsoft acknowledged the demand for dark mode support in Regedit but indicated that there is no current schedule for it to be implemented.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft is continuing to expand dark mode support in Windows 11, including older system components, but has not provided a specific timeline. According to Marcus Ash, the head of Windows Design and Research, the company is actively working to bring dark mode to more areas of Windows 11, such as legacy system interfaces.

The update was shared in response to user feedback and indicates that improvements are ongoing but not yet complete. Microsoft has not announced when full dark mode coverage will be available, and some core system tools still do not support it.

How Microsoft Is Targeting Legacy UI Gaps In Windows 11 Dark Mode

Marcus Ash mentioned that Microsoft is working on improving its internal tools and techniques to better support dark mode across Windows. The efforts are particularly aimed at older system panels and dialogs that still depend on legacy interface frameworks.

Ash explained that the company is aiming for greater visual consistency as progress continues in these areas. The update confirms that expanding dark mode remains an active development focus.

A common example cited is the Windows Registry Editor, known as Regedit. Microsoft acknowledged the demand for dark mode support in Regedit but indicated that there is no current schedule for it to be implemented.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft outs Windows 11 KB5085516 to fix internet access to OneDrive, Edge, Teams,]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21680 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:53:12 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21680 Quote:This month, Microsoft has already released two emergency OOB or out-of-band updates to resolve a couple of major issues. The first one under KB5084597 was a security patch for a critical network vulnerability while the second one, KB5084897, was to fix broken Bluetooth connectivity. Those were on Windows 11 2024 LTSC.

Following those, today, Microsoft has released yet another OOB update this time for Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 to fix an internet connectivity-related problem we reported on a few days back. Due to this new bug that was documented this week, Microsoft confirmed that MSA or Microsoft Account sign-in broke and as such affected users were not able to access Microsoft's free apps like Teams Free, OneDrive, Edge, Copilot, Excel, and Word as it led to "You'll need the Internet for this. It doesn't look like you're connected to the Internet" error message.

With today's new OOB update under KB5085516 (builds 26200.8039 on 25H2 and 26100.8039 on 24H2), Microsoft has resolved this bug.

To get the update, go to the Settings page via the Start menu, then Update & Security > Windows Update. Here, you will find KB5085516 under Check for Optional Updates.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:This month, Microsoft has already released two emergency OOB or out-of-band updates to resolve a couple of major issues. The first one under KB5084597 was a security patch for a critical network vulnerability while the second one, KB5084897, was to fix broken Bluetooth connectivity. Those were on Windows 11 2024 LTSC.

Following those, today, Microsoft has released yet another OOB update this time for Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 to fix an internet connectivity-related problem we reported on a few days back. Due to this new bug that was documented this week, Microsoft confirmed that MSA or Microsoft Account sign-in broke and as such affected users were not able to access Microsoft's free apps like Teams Free, OneDrive, Edge, Copilot, Excel, and Word as it led to "You'll need the Internet for this. It doesn't look like you're connected to the Internet" error message.

With today's new OOB update under KB5085516 (builds 26200.8039 on 25H2 and 26100.8039 on 24H2), Microsoft has resolved this bug.

To get the update, go to the Settings page via the Start menu, then Update & Security > Windows Update. Here, you will find KB5085516 under Check for Optional Updates.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Plans to Let Windows 11 Users Pause Updates Indefinitely]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21678 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:48:07 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21678 Quote:Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 will let users pause updates indefinitely, a level of control not available since Windows 8. The change is part of the broader Windows K2 update rollout announced this week. Pavan Davuluri, EVP of Windows and Devices at Microsoft, explained the new options:

Quote:"Users will be able to skip updates during device setup to reach the desktop faster, restart or shut down without installing updates, and pause updates for longer when needed."

The update also aims to reduce disruptions with fewer automatic restarts and notifications.

What Changes With Windows 11 Updates

Since Windows 10, updates have been largely mandatory. Users could delay them for a few weeks, but eventually, Windows would enforce the installation. That restriction is now being removed. Once the update rolls out, users will be able to postpone updates as they wish, shut down or restart without needing to install a pending update first, and skip update installation during initial setup.

Why Microsoft Is Letting Windows 11 Users Pause Updates

Microsoft aims to make updates more predictable, easier to manage, and less disruptive. This change is part of a larger effort to improve Windows 11’s reputation, along with performance enhancements and reduced system friction.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 will let users pause updates indefinitely, a level of control not available since Windows 8. The change is part of the broader Windows K2 update rollout announced this week. Pavan Davuluri, EVP of Windows and Devices at Microsoft, explained the new options:

Quote:"Users will be able to skip updates during device setup to reach the desktop faster, restart or shut down without installing updates, and pause updates for longer when needed."

The update also aims to reduce disruptions with fewer automatic restarts and notifications.

What Changes With Windows 11 Updates

Since Windows 10, updates have been largely mandatory. Users could delay them for a few weeks, but eventually, Windows would enforce the installation. That restriction is now being removed. Once the update rolls out, users will be able to postpone updates as they wish, shut down or restart without needing to install a pending update first, and skip update installation during initial setup.

Why Microsoft Is Letting Windows 11 Users Pause Updates

Microsoft aims to make updates more predictable, easier to manage, and less disruptive. This change is part of a larger effort to improve Windows 11’s reputation, along with performance enhancements and reduced system friction.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft promises faster Windows 11, fewer update restarts, movable taskbar, and les]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21676 Sat, 21 Mar 2026 07:30:06 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21676 Quote:Microsoft details Windows 11 performance and update changes in a new quality roadmap

[Image: WINDOWS-MOVABLE-TASKBAR-1200x681.jpg]

[Image: WINDOWS-MOVABLE-TASKBAR-1200x681.jpg]

© Microsoft

Microsoft has published a new Windows 11 quality roadmap, with Windows chief Pavan Davuluri outlining a broader effort to improve performance, reliability, and day to day usability. It’s Microsoft’s attempt to rebuild trust in Windows after months of complaints about bugs, intrusive AI additions, and update problems. Microsoft says the first changes will start appearing for Windows Insiders in late March and throughout April.

File Explorer & Performance

On performance, Microsoft says it will reduce Windows resource usage, lower the baseline memory footprint, and make core parts of the OS feel more responsive. File Explorer is a major target, with promised improvements to launch time, flicker, navigation, search, and large file operations. Microsoft also says it will move more Windows experiences to WinUI3 to cut interaction latency, while WSL is set for faster file performance between Linux and Windows, improved network throughput, and a simpler first time setup flow.

Source: Microsoft

Quote:Changes coming to Windows 11 in April
More taskbar customization, including vertical and top positions: Repositioning the taskbar is one of the top asks we’ve heard from you. We are introducing the ability to reposition it to the top or sides of your screen, making it easier to personalize your workspace.

Integrating AI where it’s most meaningful, with craft and focus: You will see us be more intentional about how and where Copilot integrates across Windows, focusing on experiences that are genuinely useful and well‑crafted. As part of this, we are reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points, starting with apps like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets and Notepad.

Reducing disruption from Windows Updates: Receiving updates should be predictable and easy to plan around, so we’re giving you more control. This includes the ability to skip updates during device setup to get to the desktop faster, restart or shut down without installing updates and pause updates for longer when needed, all while reducing update noise with fewer automatic restarts and notifications.

Faster and more dependable File Explorer: File Explorer is one of the most used surfaces in Windows. Our first round of improvements will focus on a quicker launch experience, reduced flicker, smoother navigation and more reliable performance for everyday file tasks.

More control over widgets and feed experiences: Widgets should feel helpful and relevant, not distracting or overwhelming. We’re introducing quieter defaults, more control over when and how widgets appear, and improved personalization for the Discover feed.

A simpler, more transparent Windows Insider Program: The Windows Insider Program is how you help shape the future of Windows, and it should be easy to understand what to expect and how to participate. We are implementing changes to make it easier for you to navigate with clearer channel definitions, easier access to new features, higher quality builds, better visibility into how your feedback shapes Windows, and more opportunities to engage directly with us.

Improved Feedback Hub, available starting today: Your feedback is essential to improving Windows, and it should be easy to share and see what others are saying. Today, we’re rolling out the largest update to Feedback Hub yet to our Insiders, with a redesigned experience that makes it faster and easier to submit feedback and engage with the community.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft details Windows 11 performance and update changes in a new quality roadmap

[Image: WINDOWS-MOVABLE-TASKBAR-1200x681.jpg]

Source: Microsoft

Quote:Changes coming to Windows 11 in April
More taskbar customization, including vertical and top positions: Repositioning the taskbar is one of the top asks we’ve heard from you. We are introducing the ability to reposition it to the top or sides of your screen, making it easier to personalize your workspace.

Integrating AI where it’s most meaningful, with craft and focus: You will see us be more intentional about how and where Copilot integrates across Windows, focusing on experiences that are genuinely useful and well‑crafted. As part of this, we are reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points, starting with apps like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets and Notepad.

Reducing disruption from Windows Updates: Receiving updates should be predictable and easy to plan around, so we’re giving you more control. This includes the ability to skip updates during device setup to get to the desktop faster, restart or shut down without installing updates and pause updates for longer when needed, all while reducing update noise with fewer automatic restarts and notifications.

Faster and more dependable File Explorer: File Explorer is one of the most used surfaces in Windows. Our first round of improvements will focus on a quicker launch experience, reduced flicker, smoother navigation and more reliable performance for everyday file tasks.

More control over widgets and feed experiences: Widgets should feel helpful and relevant, not distracting or overwhelming. We’re introducing quieter defaults, more control over when and how widgets appear, and improved personalization for the Discover feed.

A simpler, more transparent Windows Insider Program: The Windows Insider Program is how you help shape the future of Windows, and it should be easy to understand what to expect and how to participate. We are implementing changes to make it easier for you to navigate with clearer channel definitions, easier access to new features, higher quality builds, better visibility into how your feedback shapes Windows, and more opportunities to engage directly with us.

Improved Feedback Hub, available starting today: Your feedback is essential to improving Windows, and it should be easy to share and see what others are saying. Today, we’re rolling out the largest update to Feedback Hub yet to our Insiders, with a redesigned experience that makes it faster and easier to submit feedback and engage with the community.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Fixes Bluetooth Visibility Bug on Windows 11 Enterprise Devices]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21667 Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:53:53 +0000 harlan4096]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21667 Quote:Microsoft released an out-of-band hotpatch, KB5084897, to address a Bluetooth visibility issue on Windows 11 Enterprise devices enrolled in the hotpatch update program. The update, launched on Monday, installs automatically and does not require a restart.

The problem prevents connected Bluetooth devices from appearing in Windows Settings under Bluetooth & Devices or in Quick Settings, even if they are working properly. Users affected by the bug are also unable to add new Bluetooth devices because they do not show up in the connection list.

Affected Windows 11 Enterprise Versions for KB5084897

KB5084897 is applicable to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 on Enterprise editions with hotpatch enabled. The update won't install on Enterprise devices that are receiving standard cumulative updates. It includes all enhancements and security patches from the March 2026 Windows hotpatch release.

Continue Reading... ]]> Quote:Microsoft released an out-of-band hotpatch, KB5084897, to address a Bluetooth visibility issue on Windows 11 Enterprise devices enrolled in the hotpatch update program. The update, launched on Monday, installs automatically and does not require a restart.

The problem prevents connected Bluetooth devices from appearing in Windows Settings under Bluetooth & Devices or in Quick Settings, even if they are working properly. Users affected by the bug are also unable to add new Bluetooth devices because they do not show up in the connection list.

Affected Windows 11 Enterprise Versions for KB5084897

KB5084897 is applicable to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 on Enterprise editions with hotpatch enabled. The update won't install on Enterprise devices that are receiving standard cumulative updates. It includes all enhancements and security patches from the March 2026 Windows hotpatch release.

Continue Reading... ]]> <![CDATA[Microsoft Confirms Windows 11 24H2/25H2 Bug Blocks Access to the System Drive C]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21661 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:52:45 +0000 schreckdeividas]]> https://www.geeks.fyi/showthread.php?tid=21661 Quote:Microsoft has officially acknowledged a critical bug affecting Windows 11 users on certain Samsung devices, in which the system drive C

becomes completely inaccessible after installing the February 2026 security update. The company is now actively investigating the issue in coordination with Samsung.

After installing the February 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5077181, OS Build 26100.7840), affected Samsung devices display the error message: “C:\ is not accessible – Access denied.”

The error effectively locks users out of their own system drive, blocking the launch of applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Office apps, web browsers, system utilities, and Quick Assist.

The failure is not triggered by any specialized operation. Routine tasks such as opening files, launching applications, or performing standard administrative actions are enough to surface the error.
Source----@cybersecuritynews]]> Quote:Microsoft has officially acknowledged a critical bug affecting Windows 11 users on certain Samsung devices, in which the system drive C

becomes completely inaccessible after installing the February 2026 security update. The company is now actively investigating the issue in coordination with Samsung.

After installing the February 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5077181, OS Build 26100.7840), affected Samsung devices display the error message: “C:\ is not accessible – Access denied.”

The error effectively locks users out of their own system drive, blocking the launch of applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Office apps, web browsers, system utilities, and Quick Assist.

The failure is not triggered by any specialized operation. Routine tasks such as opening files, launching applications, or performing standard administrative actions are enough to surface the error.
Source----@cybersecuritynews]]>