Category: Computing

ComputingSoftware

FreeBSD 15.0 Beta 2 Advances With Enhanced Build System and Security Features

The FreeBSD Project has released its second beta of version 15.0, featuring substantial improvements to build reproducibility and security. Sources indicate the update includes a new blocklist capability alongside enhanced release engineering processes. These developments reportedly strengthen FreeBSD’s position in the server and embedded systems markets.

FreeBSD 15.0 Beta 2 Release Highlights

The FreeBSD Project has announced the availability of FreeBSD 15.0 Beta 2, marking a significant milestone in the development cycle of the upcoming operating system release. According to reports, this beta introduces crucial improvements to build reproducibility and adds a new security feature described as a “blocklist” capability.

by Jessica Moore P.E.
ComputingSoftware Guides

Microsoft Deploying Critical Windows 11 Recovery Environment Updates Across All Supported Versions

Microsoft has launched specialized recovery updates for all supported Windows 11 versions, addressing critical functionality within the Windows Recovery Environment. The updates reportedly enhance user experience during system recovery scenarios by replacing technical command prompts with more accessible message boxes. These improvements come as part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to refine the Windows 11 ecosystem.

Windows Recovery Environment Enhanced Through Latest Updates

Microsoft has deployed specialized recovery updates for all supported versions of Windows 11, according to recent reports from the company. The updates, identified as KB5067039 and KB5067019, focus specifically on improving the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) across multiple operating system versions. Sources indicate these improvements are part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance system recovery capabilities for both consumer and enterprise users.

by Jessica Moore P.E.
Assistive TechnologyComputing

AMD Zen 5 Processors Face RDSEED Instruction Disablement Due to Silent Failure Bug

A critical hardware vulnerability has been identified in AMD’s next-generation Zen 5 processors, forcing Linux kernel developers to propose disabling the RDSEED instruction across all affected CPUs. The bug causes the random number generator to produce invalid outputs while reporting success, potentially compromising security applications relying on cryptographic randomness.

Critical Hardware Bug Discovered in AMD Zen 5 Architecture

A significant hardware vulnerability has been identified in AMD’s recently launched Zen 5 processor architecture, according to reports from Linux kernel developers. Sources indicate the bug affects the RDSEED instruction, which is critical for generating cryptographically secure random numbers used in various security applications.

by Michael Turner
Assistive TechnologyComputing

NASA Earth Observation Data Now Accessible Through Microsoft’s Azure Cloud Platform

Microsoft has integrated NASA’s comprehensive Earth observation archives into its Azure cloud platform. The move provides researchers with petabytes of environmental data alongside AI tools for advanced analysis of climate patterns and land use changes.

Major Environmental Data Migration to Cloud Platform

Microsoft has reportedly made NASA’s extensive Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel-2 (HLS) dataset available through its Azure cloud services, according to recent reports. The data is accessible via the technology giant’s Planetary Computer platform, marking a significant expansion of cloud-based environmental research capabilities.

by Jessica Moore P.E.
ComputingGaming Hardware

Microsoft’s Latest Surface Laptop Hits Record $950 Price Point in Limited-Time Offer

Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 7 has dropped to a new all-time low of $950, according to recent retail reports. The latest model features Snapdragon X processors and reportedly delivers nearly 20 hours of battery life in testing. These discounts represent some of the most significant savings seen on Surface devices this year.

Surface Laptop 7 Reaches New Price Milestone

Microsoft’s flagship Surface Laptop 7 has hit a unprecedented price point of $950 at Best Buy, according to recent retail reports. The discount represents a $250 reduction from the device’s standard $1,200 retail price, marking one of the most aggressive promotions on the latest Surface model since its release.

by Michael Turner
Assistive TechnologyComputing

Quantum Computing Sector Faces Market Pressure as Leading Stocks Decline

Quantum computing stocks are facing substantial downward pressure this week, with multiple companies reporting double-digit percentage declines. Industry analysts point to broader market concerns affecting the emerging technology sector as Rigetti Computing leads the downturn with the most significant losses.

Quantum Computing Stocks Experience Widespread Declines

The quantum computing sector is facing significant market pressure this week as shares of major publicly traded companies in the space declined substantially, according to recent market analysis. The so-called “Quantum Four” – Rigetti Computing, IonQ, Quantum Computing Inc., and D-Wave Quantum – all saw their stock prices tumble during Thursday’s trading session, with the downward trend reportedly continuing into Friday’s premarket activity.

by Michael Turner