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Windows 11 still runs on code from the 1990s, Microsoft admits

PCWorld

PCWorld reports that Windows 11 still relies on code from the 1990s, particularly the Win32 API from Windows 95, for basic functions like right-clicking. Microsoft CTO Mark Russinovich acknowledges the unexpected longevity of this legacy code, which remains fundamental to many applications and core Windows operations. Previous attempts to modernize the Windows API, including WinRT, failed to fully replace the enduring Win32 system that continues powering today's operating system. Windows 11 is the most modern, secure, and updated Windows ever--at least that's what Microsoft keeps saying. But a senior Microsoft executive recently revealed just how much of the underlying technology in Windows 11 is still legacy, all the way from decades ago. One such relic in Windows 11 comes into play whenever you right-click a file or launch a desktop app. When you perform such tasks, you're executing code that was written in the 1990s. We're talking about the Win32 API, for which Microsoft still maintains a programming reference support document . Although the Win32 API became widespread with Windows 95, it had already been implemented in Windows NT prior to that.


Chrome 148 patches 100 vulnerabilities, including 3 critical flaws

PCWorld

This update matters significantly as it patches over double the vulnerabilities from the previous version, covering high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk security issues. Chrome automatically updates across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms, though users can manually check via Help menu for immediate protection.


This giant LG OLED gaming monitor is over 50% off

PCWorld

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Today you can get a 39-inch OLED with 240Hz speed for under $800, an absolutely unbeatable deal if you want to go big. Since nobody can upgrade their actual gaming PC at the moment, it's a very popular time to upgrade your gaming monitor. And, if you're looking to go big, Amazon has a fantastic deal for you today. This 39-inch LG OLED ultrawide, and I mean because it's 39 inches, is just $768 .


MasterClass is 50% off today. It's worth it just for the entertainment

PCWorld

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. MasterClass is 50% off today. Until May 10th, MasterClass annual plans start at $60/year. It's great for casual learners who want high-quality, entertaining courses from big names. With the job market being what it is, there's never been a better time to learn new skills (or brush up on old ones).


Samsung's 27-inch 1440p/180Hz gaming monitor hits new low: 170

PCWorld

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Samsung's Odyssey G51F gaming monitor is 32% off at Amazon, its biggest price drop since launching in August 2025. Samsung's 27-inch Odyssey G51F gaming monitor is on sale for $170 at Amazon, its best price yet. That's a 32% discount off its $250 MSRP, and this is the first time it's gotten such a big price drop since it launched back in August 2025. The G51F is an updated version of the G51C, with a lot of the same specs that made the older model great: 2560 1440 resolution on a fast VA panel, 1ms response time for a competitive gaming edge, and excellent 3000:1 contrast ratio for vibrant gaming (especially on a VA panel).


Best VPN for Utah residents in 2026

PCWorld

NordVPN leads with fastest speeds and advanced features, while Mullvad offers exceptional privacy at $5 monthly and ExpressVPN provides extensive US coverage. Utah's new law creates uncertainty for VPN users, potentially leading to traffic blocking or invasive identity checks by websites. Utah residents are facing a major shift in online privacy. A new state law, Senate Bill 73, has made Utah the first state to specifically target VPN use as part of its online age-verification rules, holding websites responsible even when users attempt to mask their location with a VPN. Privacy advocates warn the law could pressure websites into blocking VPN traffic entirely or expanding invasive identity checks for everyone.


This piano app listens and corrects you--and gives you 5 years to master it

PCWorld

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. A 5-year flowkey Classic Plan is $99.99 (MSRP $899). Trying to teach yourself piano usually breaks down at the same point: you can follow along with sheet music or a video, but you can't verify if you're doing it right. And, honestly, who wants to take formal lessons every week? Instead, there's an app for that: flowkey, and it turns your keyboard or piano into something closer to an interactive lesson setup.


Anker's 240W USB-C cables are 5 each now. Unlock ultra-fast charging

PCWorld

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Anker's 240W USB-C cables are $5 each now. Anker's 240W USB-C cable 2-pack is just $10 at Amazon--a huge speed upgrade over basic cables for phones and power-hungry laptops. If your phone still takes more than an hour to charge from zero to full, you deserve a cable upgrade. Anker is selling a 2-pack of ultra-fast USB-C charging cables for just $10 right now at Amazon, and once you experience ultra-fast charging for your phone, you'll never go back. These cables are rated for 240 watts of power, which is significantly faster than the 10 to 18 watts of older, basic charging cables--the kind you're probably using if you're still hanging onto USB cables from years ago.


Why is my Wi-Fi still slow after upgrading my internet plan?

PCWorld

Compare MSI Roamii BE Pro vs BE Lite mesh systems and Wi-Fi 7 adapters to choose the right upgrade solution for your home computing setup. Why is my Wi-Fi still slow after upgrading my internet plan? Your router is likely the bottleneck, not your internet plan. If your wired speeds are faster than your Wi-Fi, or performance drops in certain rooms, the issue is almost certainly your router hardware - and upgrading it will make a bigger difference than paying for a faster plan. A faster internet plan doesn't always translate to faster real-world Wi-Fi - your router may be limiting the speeds your devices receive.


For 26, you can get lifetime licenses to Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro

PCWorld

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Older PCs need two things to still be useful: an updated operating system and software they can actually run. Between Windows 10 and Microsoft 365, you have an outdated OS and apps you're paying for every month that aren't even optimized for your machine. If you want a simple alternative, you can now get Windows 11 Pro and a lifetime license for Microsoft Office 2019 together for only $25.99 (reg. This bundle gives you both pieces at once.