I’m thrilled to sit down with Dominic Jainy, an IT professional whose deep knowledge of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain also extends to a keen understanding of operating systems like Microsoft Windows. With years of experience analyzing tech trends and their real-world applications, Dominic is the perfect person to guide us through the latest developments and challenges surrounding Windows 11 and Windows 10. Today, we’ll dive into recent update issues, the push to upgrade, security concerns, and what these changes mean for everyday users and gamers alike.
Can you walk us through what happened with the recent Windows 11 update KB5066835 and its impact on users?
Absolutely. The KB5066835 update for Windows 11, which was meant to be a routine mandatory patch, ended up causing a significant glitch. Specifically, it disrupted the functionality of peripherals like mice and keyboards when users accessed the Windows Recovery Environment, or WinRE. This is a critical space for troubleshooting when a PC fails to boot properly, so losing the ability to navigate menus or input commands made it incredibly difficult for users to diagnose and fix issues on their devices. It turned a safety net into a frustrating roadblock for many.
Why is the Windows Recovery Environment so vital for users dealing with PC problems?
The Windows Recovery Environment is essentially a lifeline for anyone whose computer won’t start up normally. It’s a stripped-down mode where you can run diagnostics, restore system backups, or reset your device to factory settings. Think of it as the emergency room for your PC—without it working properly, you’re stuck with a machine that won’t cooperate, and you can’t even begin to figure out what’s wrong. When peripherals don’t function in this mode, as we saw with KB5066835, it’s like being in that emergency room without any tools or staff to help.
How has Microsoft responded to this peripheral glitch in Windows 11?
Microsoft acted pretty quickly by rolling out an emergency fix through update KB5070773. This patch specifically targets the issue in WinRE, restoring functionality to mice, keyboards, and other input devices so users can navigate troubleshooting menus again. It’s a direct response to the outcry from affected users, and it shows Microsoft’s awareness that a broken recovery environment is a serious problem that needed an urgent solution.
Can you explain how Windows 11 users can apply this emergency fix to their systems?
Sure, it’s a straightforward process. Users need to open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key plus I, then head to the Windows Update section. From there, click on ‘Check for updates,’ and if KB5070773 is available, it’ll show up in the list. Just hit ‘Download and install,’ follow any on-screen prompts, and restart your computer afterward to ensure the changes take effect. It’s a simple enough fix, but users need to be proactive in checking for it since the original issue could prevent normal troubleshooting.
Microsoft has claimed that switching to Windows 11 can make a PC twice as fast. What’s your perspective on this bold statement?
I think it’s an intriguing claim, but it needs context. Windows 11 does bring optimizations like better memory management, faster boot times, and improved handling of background processes, which can make a noticeable difference, especially on newer hardware. Features like DirectStorage for faster game loading and a more efficient task scheduler can contribute to that ‘twice as fast’ feeling under the right conditions. However, the actual speed boost depends heavily on your hardware and usage patterns. For older systems or basic tasks, the difference might not be as dramatic as Microsoft suggests.
What are some reasons why so many people, including millions in the UK, are still holding onto Windows 10 despite known risks?
There are a few factors at play here. First, familiarity—Windows 10 has been around for years, and many users, especially those not super tech-savvy, are comfortable with it and don’t see a need to change. Second, compatibility concerns; some older software or hardware might not work as smoothly on Windows 11, which is a big deterrent. Then there’s the cost or hassle of upgrading, especially if your device doesn’t meet Windows 11’s stricter hardware requirements. Lastly, with about 5 million in the UK alone still on Windows 10, there’s a sense of safety in numbers—people think if so many are sticking with it, it can’t be that bad, even though the risks are real.
What are the biggest security threats facing Windows 10 users now that critical updates are limited?
The main issue is that without regular security patches, Windows 10 systems are increasingly vulnerable to new malware, exploits, and cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are always looking for unpatched loopholes, and an outdated OS is a goldmine for them. If you’re using your PC for sensitive stuff like online banking or storing personal data, the risk of data theft or ransomware skyrockets. Microsoft’s decision to stop critical updates for many devices means these systems are essentially sitting ducks unless users take extra steps like signing up for OneDrive or paying a one-time fee for extended security.
How do you think Microsoft’s strategy of tying free security updates to OneDrive or charging a fee affects public trust?
It’s a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, offering a way to keep Windows 10 secure through OneDrive or a modest fee of around £22 shows Microsoft is trying to provide options rather than forcing an upgrade. On the other hand, it can feel like a paywall for basic security, which rubs a lot of people the wrong way. Users might see it as Microsoft prioritizing profit over protection, especially for those who can’t afford or don’t want cloud storage. It risks eroding trust, particularly among long-time Windows users who expect security to be a given, not a subscription perk.
What are some key features Windows 10 users miss out on by not upgrading to Windows 11, and how much do they matter?
Windows 11 introduces a slew of features that Windows 10 lacks, like a revamped user interface with a centered taskbar and snap layouts for better multitasking. There’s also deeper integration with Microsoft Teams, enhanced virtual desktops, and gaming perks like Auto HDR and DirectStorage for faster load times. For the average user doing basic tasks—browsing, word processing, or storing photos—these might not feel essential; they’re nice-to-haves rather than must-haves. But for power users, gamers, or anyone craving a modern, polished experience, missing out on these can start to feel like a real limitation over time.
There’s talk that Windows 10 might still edge out Windows 11 in gaming performance. What’s your take on this debate?
Yes, I’ve seen reports and user feedback suggesting that in certain scenarios, Windows 10 can outperform Windows 11 for gaming, especially with older titles or specific hardware setups. This could be due to Windows 11’s newer overheads, like stricter security features or background processes, which might impact frame rates or latency in some games. However, Windows 11’s gaming optimizations, like DirectStorage, should theoretically give it an edge with newer games. It really depends on the game, the system, and how much a user prioritizes raw performance over new features. For hardcore gamers, this discrepancy might be enough to delay upgrading.
What is your forecast for the future of Windows upgrades and user adoption over the next few years?
I think we’re at a pivotal moment for Windows adoption. With Windows 10’s end-of-support looming and Microsoft pushing hard for Windows 11, I expect a gradual but steady shift over the next few years, especially as security risks become more apparent and new PCs ship exclusively with Windows 11. However, resistance will persist among users with older hardware or niche needs like gaming or specific software compatibility. Microsoft will likely ramp up incentives—maybe more freebies or better transition tools—to ease the switch, but they’ll need to address trust issues around security and forced upgrades. I foresee a hybrid landscape where Windows 11 dominates new systems, but a stubborn pocket of Windows 10 users holds out until they’re absolutely forced to move on.