Operating Systems
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New non-security Win10 patches fix numerous bugs, but where’s version 1809?
On Tuesday, Microsoft released cumulative updates for Win10 versions 1803, 1709, 1703 and 1607 that address all of the acknowledged bugs (there were many) in those versions of Windoews 10. Usual Seeker of Queensbury rules apply: You...
Microsoft delays Windows 7's update-signing deadline to July
The company's plans to move away from SHA-1 to SHA-2 for digital signatures for OS updates has been pushed back to mid-year.
Knowledge Pack
Windows 10 data collection: What you need to know
The operating system has been collecting telemetry on users and apps since 2015; despite recent changes, it’s still gathering information.
Microsoft shoves some Windows 10 testers into next year with early look at 2020 feature upgrade
The company pointed to a 'longer lead time' for some of the features in the far-off upgrade, which isn't expected to arrive until the spring of 2020.
Microsoft dismantles its update naming scheme again, leaves unanswered questions
With the announcement Thursday that Microsoft will no longer use the “Semi-Annual Channel Targeted” mumbo-jumbo, we’re left with dozens of key questions, terminology be damned. Just when are we supposed to believe a new version of...
video
Updating Spectre, Meltdown and Foreshadow mitigations
Use these Windows registry key changes and fixes to protect your systems from known side channel vulnerabilities.
How to use your Mac safely in public places
If you use your Mac in public places, it makes sense to take precautions against theft, loss, and hacks.
Knowledge Pack
Introduction to Windows PowerShell
We take you from the very basics up to using objects and beyond, with plenty of resources along the way.
Android Pie and Project Treble: Did Google's upgrade fix work?
It's finally time for the first real test of Google's effort to improve Android upgrades — and the results reveal some sobering truths.
Microsoft cheat sheets: Dive into Windows and Office apps
These guides will help you find your way around several generations of Microsoft’s Office apps for Windows — and Windows itself.
Windows 10: A guide to the updates
Here's what you need to know about each update to Windows 10 as they roll out from Microsoft. Now updated for KB4487044 (OS Build 17763.316), released Feb. 12, 2019.
Why Android upgrades absolutely matter
If you think Android OS updates are relevant only for what you see on the surface, you aren't thinking deeply enough.
Windows 7 add-on support to cost up to $350 per PC for 3 more years of patches
A Microsoft document offers details on how much it could cost companies to maintain Windows 7 PCs if they don't migrate to Windows 10 by early next year.
It's time to block Windows Automatic Updating
Patch Tuesday’s tomorrow, which means today offers an excellent opportunity to make sure your machine is braced for impact. Here’s your step-by-step guide to blocking patches as they come out the chute, so you can install them...
Microsoft: Watch out for zero days; deferred patches, not so much
Yesterday’s Blue Hat IL presentation from MSRC shows that, in 2017-18, the threat from zero days far exceeds the threat of delaying patches by 30 days. Moreover, the vast majority of zero days are used in targeted attacks, not in...
video
Linux tip: How to use the hostnamectl command
In this Linux tip, we look at the hostnamectl command. It’s a command that provides information on a particular system – including but not limited to its hostname – and even allows you to make some changes.
Android Upgrade Report Card: Grading the manufacturers on Pie
Six months after Pie's release, how have Android device-makers done at getting the upgrade into users' hands? The grades are in — and they aren't exactly exceptional.
video
How to harden Windows workstations and servers from attack
Use these basic settings to make it harder for attackers to Windows hardware.
Is Chrome OS right for you? A 3-question quiz to find out
Chromebooks aren't like regular computers — so are they right for your needs? These three questions will help you find the answer.
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