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If you've noticed Outlook crashing lately, especially when opening it or starting in Safe Mode, you're not alone.

Microsoft has identified an issue affecting some people. It’s to do with corrupted email rules within Microsoft 365 accounts, and it can't be fixed by simply going back to an earlier version or creating a new profile.

To check if this issue affects you, you can look for certain error codes in the Windows Event Viewer. But if that sounds complicated, don’t worry, Microsoft has provided a temporary solution.

The key step is to remove all email rules associated with your account. You can do this by running a specific command or manually deleting the rules via Outlook Web Access. If necessary, you might also need to create a new Outlook profile.

This workaround should help keep Outlook running smoothly while Microsoft works on a permanent fix. If you’ve been affected by this, my team can help get things running smoothly again - get in touch.



https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-shares-workaround-for-outlook-crashing-after-opening/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Microsoft has recently shut down a popular trick that allowed people to install Windows 11 on older, incompatible PCs. I don’t mean to sound like a killjoy, but while it might have seemed like a clever workaround, there are good reasons why system requirements exist for operating systems.

Windows 11 is designed to run on newer hardware to ensure stability, security, and performance. By bypassing checks, you could end up with a system that’s prone to crashes, won’t receive crucial updates, and ultimately puts your data at risk.

Microsoft’s move is a reminder that sticking to official upgrade paths is always safer.

If your PC doesn’t meet the requirements for Windows 11, don’t worry. Windows 10 is still supported until October next year, giving you time to plan your next steps. Whether that means upgrading your hardware or considering other options like refurbished equipment, it’s important to make informed decisions.

Need help navigating your upgrade options? My team and I can guide you through the process safely and efficiently.

Be honest with me though… did you try this little upgrade trick?



https://www.pcworld.com/article/2430483/microsoft-blocks-popular-trick-for-bypassing-the-hardware-check-for-windows-11.html?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

OK, this is not great news. A new type of malware has been discovered that can bypass antivirus software to install ransomware on devices.

This malware, known as EDRKillShifter, is used by cyber criminals to disable Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools, which are crucial for keeping your systems safe. Once these protections are down, your devices are left vulnerable to ransomware attacks, which can lock you out of your data and demand a hefty ransom to regain access.

And the really scary bit? This malware could be available on the dark web, meaning it might be used by multiple attackers. If your business isn’t protected, the consequences could be severe, including data loss, financial damage, and a big hit to your reputation. Ouch.

So, how can you keep your business safe?

First, make sure your security software has tamper protection enabled, which can prevent attackers from disabling it.

Next, keep your systems and software up to date. This includes ensuring that older, vulnerable drivers are no longer in use.

Lastly, practice strong security hygiene by limiting admin rights and securing Windows security roles to make it harder for attackers to gain control of your systems.

Staying vigilant and keeping your defences strong is the best way to protect your business from these evolving threats. If you need a hand with any of that, we can help - get in touch.



https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/cybercriminals-launch-new-malware-that-can-completely-wipe-out-your-antivirus?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Have you upgraded your business to Windows 11 yet? If not, now might be the perfect time to consider it - especially with the exciting new changes coming to the Start menu. Microsoft has been experimenting with different layouts, and the latest updates make navigating your apps even easier.

Windows 11 is introducing a new "Category" view in the Start menu's All apps section. This design organises your apps into neat categories, making it simpler to find what you need without endless scrolling. Imagine quickly locating your tools with just a glance, saving you time and boosting productivity.

Plus, the new Grid layout is smart - it groups apps by their first letter making it easier to find them.

Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just about a fresh look; it’s about enhancing your workflow. With these new Start menu features on the way, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. Ready to take the leap? Let my team help - get in touch.



https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/08/11/windows-11s-new-start-menu-design-is-a-lot-like-grouped-live-tiles/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

"In truth, I wouldn't be without him. There are lots of IT issues I probably could solve with much googling, angst, tearing my hair out and lots of time - the relief of having John on hand to help when things go wrong or I think I should be able to do something, but don't know how - or just need advice is enormous."

Remember the July CrowdStrike outage that caused chaos for businesses around the world? If you were affected, you’re not alone - millions felt the impact as travel, banking, and healthcare networks were disrupted by one of the largest IT outages in history.

The culprit? A small software update that left 8.5 million Windows devices facing the dreaded blue screen of death (BSOD).

In a lighthearted twist, CrowdStrike’s president Michael Sentonas took the stage at DEF CON in Las Vegas to accept the “Epic Fail” award, known as the Pwnie, at the world’s biggest hacking and security conference.

The award, given for the most spectacular blunders in cyber security, was a bit larger than usual this year, a nod to the scale of the mishap. Sentonas joked about the surprise of his team when he decided to accept the award in person. But he also took the opportunity to apologise to everyone affected, emphasising that owning up to mistakes is key to CrowdStrike’s philosophy.

The towering Pwnie trophy will head back to CrowdStrike’s HQ, serving as a reminder that even the best can stumble.



https://www.tomshardware.com/software/security-software/crowdstrike-president-graciously-accepts-pwnie-epic-fail-award-at-def-con-hacking-conference?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Today marks a significant milestone in the history of technology: On this day in 1969, the first Interface Message Processor (IMP) was delivered to UCLA.

You won’t have heard of it, but this device was the very first building block of the Internet as we know it today. The IMP was a revolutionary piece of technology that allowed different research networks to connect, and it became the first generation of what we now call network routers.

Just a month later, the second IMP was installed at the Stanford Research Institute. These two devices made history on 29th of October 1969, when the first message was sent between them. UCLA student Charley Kline attempted to send the word "login," but the system crashed after just the first two letters, making "lo" the first message ever transmitted over what would become the Internet.

While simple, this first communication was the spark that ignited our digital revolution.

For business owners, this anniversary is a reminder of the incredible impact that technology has had on the way we work and communicate. The Internet has grown from those first two letters - lo - into a tool that powers everything.

Where would we be without it today? It’s a hard thought to comprehend isn’t it?



https://thisdayintechhistory.com/08/30/first-building-block-of-the-internet/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Here’s some nightmare fodder for you: A global company recently fell victim to a sophisticated scam that cost them a massive $60 million (£46 million).

This wasn’t due to a high-tech hack or a complex breach, but something much simpler - social engineering. An employee was tricked into transferring funds to scammers, thinking they were making legitimate payments.

This kind of scam is known as a Business Email Compromise (BEC) attack. Cyber criminals either impersonate a company executive or gain access to their email and then convince an unsuspecting employee to make a payment. They might claim it’s for a business deal that needs to be done quickly and quietly, adding pressure to act fast.

For businesses, this is a sobering reminder that the biggest risks aren't always technical, they’re often human. Employees are prime targets for these kinds of attacks - especially if they have access to company funds.

The best defence? Education.

Training your team to recognise the signs of a scam could save your business millions. Encourage a culture where employees verify requests, especially when money is involved, and always double-check unusual demands, no matter how urgent they seem.

Investing in security training isn’t just a smart move, it’s essential. If you need help getting your employees up to speed on cyber security, my team can help.



https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/security/business/security-101/what-is-business-email-compromise-bec -oc5d63?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Microsoft’s announced a new change coming in January that could impact your OneDrive for Business accounts.

If a OneDrive account has been inactive for more than 90 days and doesn’t have a license, Microsoft will automatically archive it. That could be an account of an ex-employee or one where the license has been removed.

It’s part of their plan to enhance security and streamline cloud storage management. But once an account is archived, you’ll lose access to it, and getting it back won’t be simple or cheap.

If you want to recover an archived account, your admin will need to enable billing, which will cost $0.05 (4p) per gigabyte each month in the Microsoft 365 Archive. Fully reactivating the account will be even more expensive, at $0.60 (46p) per gigabyte, and the process could take up to 24 hours.

Unlicensed accounts can lead to security risks, file duplication, and confusion within your business. That’s why Microsoft is doing this. To avoid unexpected costs or data loss, it’s a good idea to have your admin check now for any unlicensed accounts. They can generate reports on these accounts using the SharePoint admin centre under OneDrive usage. If any unlicensed accounts are found, it’s best to either reassign licenses to keep them active or delete them entirely.

Doing this now can help keep your data secure and prevent surprise charges down the road. If you need help with that, my team is on standby - get in touch.



https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/SharePoint/unlicensed-onedrive-accounts?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

DDoS attacks made headlines recently when X (formerly Twitter) was hit during a high-profile interview. And this wasn’t an isolated incident - new research shows that these attacks have been on the rise throughout 2024.

What is a DDoS attack? It stands for Distributed Denial of Service.

And it's when cyber criminals overwhelm a website or online service with so much traffic that it crashes, making it inaccessible. For businesses, this can mean lost sales, disrupted services, and frustrated customers. It essentially brings your operations to a standstill.

The numbers are alarming: DDoS attacks surged by nearly 50% in the first half of 2024 compared to last year. It’s not just the frequency either; the power of these attacks is also increasing. The most powerful attack in early 2024 reached a staggering 1.7 Tbps, enough to cripple most online services.

So, how can you protect your business?

Use a reputable DDoS protection service to filter out malicious traffic before it reaches your site.

Regularly update your security software to defend against the latest threats.

And create a response plan so your team knows exactly what to do if an attack occurs.

While gaming and gambling industries are often hit the hardest, technology companies, financial services, and even ecommerce businesses are also at risk.

Have you heard of DDoS attacks before?



https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/it-s-not-just-x-ddos-attacks-really-are-hitting-more-victims?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

How’s this for a time saver? Microsoft’s making it easier to share files between your Windows PC and Android devices with a new feature that’s rolling out soon. Think of it like Apple’s AirDrop, but for people using Microsoft and Android.

You can quickly send files back and forth between your computer and phone (or tablet).

It really is a game-changer for your business: No more emailing files to yourself or looking for USB cables. With just a few clicks, you can share important documents and photos between your devices.

To use it, all you need is a PC running Windows 10 (May 2019 update or later) or Windows 11, and an Android device with version 9.0 or later.

Once set up, it’s so easy to use. Select what you want to send and choose the right device to send it to. Your files will be transferred instantly.

Keep an eye out for this feature, as it’s expected to be available to everyone soon. How often do you think you will use this?



https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/this-new-feature-is-basically-airdrop-but-for-windows-pcs-and-android?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

File Explorer is a trusted tool you use to navigate your files and folders in Windows. Here are some cool tips to get the most out of it…

Open File Explorer with a keyboard shortcut:
Just hit the Windows key + E on your keyboard. File Explorer opens right up to "This PC."

Use multiple tabs:
Did you know File Explorer has tabs now, just like your web browser? Click the plus icon at the top or press Ctrl + T to open a new tab. Need a separate window? Just drag the tab outside of File Explorer.

Preview files on the fly:
Sneak a peek at a file without opening it. Click on the View menu and select Preview pane, or simply press Alt + P. Now, when you click on a file, you’ll see a thumbnail preview on the right.

More right-click menu options:
Notice the right-click menu looks a bit short? Click "Show more options" to see the full list.

Bonus Tip: Nearby sharing
Need to transfer files quickly to another device? Turn on Nearby Sharing. Go to Settings > System > Nearby sharing and choose Off, My devices only, or Everyone nearby. It’s helpful for quick file transfers.

How many of these do you already use?



https://www.pcworld.com/article/2402864/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-windows-11-explorer.html?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

"Excellent service from Westway IT, always there when you need them, helpful, friendly advice and endless patience with queries. They help keep us one step ahead, advising on the latest changes and technologies and have excellent communications. Highly recommended."

Start Me Up… On this day in 1995, Microsoft launched one of the most iconic operating systems ever - Windows 95.

With more than a million copies sold in just the first four days, this was one of the biggest product launches in tech history.

Windows 95 introduced us to the Start menu and taskbar, features we still use today. It merged MS-DOS and Windows into one, making it easier to use.

For businesses, Windows 95 was a game-changer. It simplified operations with plug-and-play features, making it easier to connect new devices. The user-friendly interface and improved performance boosted productivity and set the stage for future innovations in the workplace.

Remember the extensive marketing campaign? It was everywhere, showing the importance of a strong launch strategy - perhaps something to consider for your next big product or service release?

Even after Windows 98 came out, Windows 95 remained the most popular operating system until 1998. Its impact is still felt today as many of its features are integrated into modern Windows versions.

Do you still look back at Windows 95 fondly? Or are you too young to remember it?



https://thisdayintechhistory.com/08/24/windows-95-released/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Remember the Nintendo Wii? You might have had one, but not one like this… it's just been miniaturised into a tiny, keychain-sized console called the Nintendo Kawaii, thanks to some ingenious modders.

This isn't just for show either. It can actually run games from the Wii era. It’s crafted from sleek aluminium and features magnetic pogo pin connectors for power and AV support. It even has a custom dock that supports four Gamecube controllers.

Why should you care?

Well, this little gadget shows us how thinking outside the box can be really useful. Just as these modders transformed an iconic gaming console into a portable novelty, your business could benefit from reimagining products or services in new, exciting ways. It’s about embracing creativity and seizing opportunities to stand out.

The initial run of 30 units at $55 (£42) sold out instantly, proving there's a demand for unique, nostalgic tech. Could this inspire you to tap into niche markets or revive classic products with a modern twist?



https://www.engadget.com/modders-made-a-tiny-nintendo-wii-that-doubles-as-a-keychain-185347707.html?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

The latest Windows 11 build introduces a new flyout in the Microsoft Store that suggests apps you might be interested in when you search for content.

While the Store already offers suggestions based on your searches, this new feature adds another layer of recommendations.

But here’s the thing: Microsoft hasn't clarified whether these suggestions are organic or paid advertisements.

Are these suggestions helpful, or just another form of advertising? Microsoft has been increasing its "suggestions" within Windows 11, from recommended apps in the Start menu to prompts for signing up for services like Game Pass and OneDrive. Even built-in apps like the Weather app have started showing more ads.

For business owners, this can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, these suggestions might help you discover useful apps that can boost productivity and streamline operations. On the other hand, they might feel intrusive and distract you from your main tasks.

As Windows 11 evolves, it's important for Microsoft to find a balance that enhances our experience without overwhelming us with ads.

What do you think? Are these suggestions beneficial or just another form of advertising?



https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/is-this-a-handy-new-feature-or-another-windows-11-ad?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Extending the life of your computer is important. But so is knowing when to repair or replace.

When to repair:

If your computer is slowing down, the first step is diagnosing the issue. It might be a software problem, so run a virus or malware scan. Check resource usage using Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) on a PC or Activity Monitor (Command+Space) on a Mac. If one application is hogging the memory, uninstalling it might speed things up. Sometimes, reinstalling your operating system can fix issues.

If it’s a hardware issue, identify which component is failing. High CPU or memory usage suggests you might need more RAM or a new hard drive. There are tools that can test your hard drive’s health, and check your RAM. Upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) or adding more RAM can boost performance.

When to replace:

Consider the age and repair cost. If your computer is seven years old or more, and repairs cost more than 25% of a new computer, it’s time for a replacement.

For newer computers (three to four years old), repairs costing up to 50% of a new machine can be worth it, giving you an extra one to three years of use.

Running diagnostics helps pinpoint the problem. If a single component is the issue, an upgrade can extend your computer’s life. But if multiple parts are struggling, it’s probably time for a new machine. Balancing repair costs with the age and performance of your computer ensures you get the most out of your investment.

If this is not your idea of fun, my team can assess your business’s machines and present you with simple options. Get in touch.



https://www.popsci.com/repair-or-replace-computer/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Windows 11 is becoming more popular, with almost 30% of all Windows PCs now running Microsoft's latest operating system. Even though Windows 10 still dominates at 66.1%, the shift to 11 is noticeable as more businesses upgrade.

Why is Windows 11 becoming so popular? Here are three big reasons…

Enhanced productivity: Windows 11 offers improved multitasking with features like Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Desktops.

Time-saving tools: The new Start menu and streamlined taskbar make it easier to access your most-used apps and files.

Better security: Windows 11 comes with built-in security features such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

With the end of Windows 10 support next year, now is the perfect time to consider upgrading your business. My team can help make it seamless - get in touch.



https://windowsreport.com/windows-11-is-getting-more-popular-by-the-month-with-almost-30-market-share/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Here’s a scary stat: A fifth of employees say they've never received any cyber security training from their employers. That’s a big deal. A recent report revealed more than half haven't yet learned how to avoid phishing scams - the most widespread cyber threat out there, where a criminal pretends to be someone else. And almost half (48%) don't know how to create strong passwords either.

The report also highlighted that many employees lack training in crucial areas. 60% of employees don't know remote working best practices, 66% are unsure what to do if their login details are breached, and 82% haven’t been taught about social engineering.

Why does this matter? Because most cyber attacks start with human error. It could be as simple as clicking a malicious link, downloading malware, or using weak passwords that criminals can easily crack.

But here’s the good news: When businesses provide advice, almost three-quarters of workers follow it. 29% admit they forget the advice, 22% find it too complicated, and 14% don’t see it as their responsibility.

So as a business owner or manager, what can you do?

Make cyber security training a regular part of your business routine. Keep it simple, clear, and engaging. Your employees are your best defence against cyber threats, but only if they’re equipped with the right knowledge.

Need help with cyber security training? Get in touch.



https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/a-shocking-number-of-workers-still-havent-received-any-security-training?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

If you've been using Copilot in Word for editing or writing, there's an exciting update you should know about. Copilot can now create summaries for much longer Word documents than before – up to about 80,000 words. That’s 4x more than the previous limit.

This new feature could be a time-saver for businesses dealing with lengthy documents like legal files or financial records. Imagine how much time your team can save by getting a quick summary instead of sifting through pages of text.

Here’s how it works: Open your long Word file, click on the Copilot button in the Home tab, and type “Summarise this doc” in the Copilot chat box. Like magic, you get a summary right away. Don’t like it? Just type the prompt again for a new one.

This feature is rolling out on all platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and the web edition of Word.

Want to learn about other productivity-boosting tools from Microsoft? Get in touch.



https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-copilot-can-now-summarize-much-longer-word-documents/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

"Professional company with a personal service. Would highly recommend."

Did you know ransomware attacks shot up by 67% last year? Scary.

Ransomware is where criminals remove your access to your own data, and you must pay a large fee to get it back.

It's clear that sticking to the old ways of data protection isn't enough anymore. So how do you keep your business safe?

I believe you need to build cyber resiliency. It's about more than just stopping attacks; it's about bouncing back quickly if something happens. New frameworks and regulations focus on this resilience – preventing, detecting, and quickly recovering from attacks.

Focus on making sure you have the right security tools, educate your team, and stay updated on the latest threats.

Is it time you had a security audit on your business? I can help - get in touch.



https://www.techradar.com/pro/stop-following-the-herd-to-start-fighting-ransomware?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

More exciting news from Microsoft. The AI-powered Designer app, which is like Canva, is now available to everyone on iOS and Android. This app is fantastic for easily creating visuals, even if you’re not a design pro.

Designer lets you generate images and designs with simple text prompts. Just type in what you need, and the app does the rest. It’s available in more than 80 languages on the web and as a free mobile app and Windows app.

As a business you can share templates with your team. It also offers powerful editing tools. Upload a photo and transform it with different styles, or use the upcoming “replace background” feature.

Integration with Microsoft tools is another big plus. The Designer app is coming to Word and PowerPoint through Copilot, allowing you to create visuals directly within your documents. Soon, you’ll even be able to create banners for your documents based on their content.

Plus, Microsoft Photos on Windows 11 is getting a deeper integration with Designer. You can edit photos, erase objects, remove backgrounds, and auto-crop images right within the Photos app.

Have you tried it yet?



https://techcrunch.com/2024/07/17/microsofts-ai-powered-canva-like-designer-app-lands-on-ios-and-android/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Can you believe it’s been 26 years since the original iMac G3 hit the market, on this day in 1998? This game-changing computer, with its vibrant "Bondi Blue" design, broke away from the boring beige boxes that dominated the tech world.

Apple's $100 million ad campaign featuring Jeff Goldblum highlighted the iMac's ease of use and internet connectivity. Goldblum asked if other computer companies had been in "thinking jail" making only beige products. The iMac was all about simplicity and innovation.

But it wasn't just about looks. The iMac was the first successful computer to drop old-school tech like legacy ports and floppy drives, embracing USB ports and setting a new standard for connectivity.

Do you remember the fun promotions? There were midnight launches, radio giveaways, and even "golden tickets" hidden in some iMacs for a tour of an Apple factory.

Happy anniversary iMac. You not only made tech fun and accessible but also paved the way for the modern, sleek designs we love today.

Did you own one of these?



https://thisdayintechhistory.com/08/15/the-original-imac-goes-on-sale/?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Without your data, your business wouldn't exist.

Your data encompasses everything from customer and employee files to project details and financial records.

However, data loss is alarmingly common and can happen more easily than you might think.

Here are some startling data loss statistics and the simplest solution to keep your data safe...

Do you follow our LinkedIn newsletter? https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/tech-informer-6902206339817250816?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer

Last month’s Windows 10 update (KB5040427) brought essential security fixes, but some people are experiencing serious issues like blue screens and reboot loops. This problem seems to happen when BitLocker encryption is enabled.

If you’re affected, entering your BitLocker recovery key should get your system back on track. You can find this key by logging into the BitLocker recovery screen portal with your Microsoft account.

Additionally, another update (KB5040525) is causing memory issues and application crashes. Since this update is optional, I’d recommend not installing it manually for now.

While these issues are being investigated by Microsoft, it might be a good time to consider upgrading to Windows 11. Windows 11 offers enhanced security features, better performance, and a more modern interface.

Have you experienced this issue with your business’s Windows 10 machines?



https://www.pcworld.com/article/2407587/july-windows-10-update-causes-blue-screen-reboot-loops-heres-the-fix.html?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Westway+it&utm_campaign=publer