Susan Bradley
Contributing Writer
Susan Bradley has been patching since before the Code Red/Nimda days and remembers exactly where she was when SQL slammer hit (trying to buy something on eBay and wondering why the Internet was so slow). She writes the Patch Watch column for Askwoody.com, is a moderator on the PatchManagement.org listserve, and writes a column of Windows security tips for CSOonline.com. In real life, she’s the IT wrangler at her firm, Tamiyasu, Smith, Horn and Braun, where she manages a fleet of Windows servers, Microsoft 365 deployments, Azure instances, desktops, a few Macs, several iPads, a few Surface devices, several iPhones and tries to keep patches up to date on all of them. In addition, she provides forensic computer investigations for the litigation consulting arm of the firm. She blogs at https://www.askwoody.com/tag/patch-lady-posts/ and is on twitter at @sbsdiva. She lurks on Twitter and Facebook, so if you are on Facebook with her, she really did read what you posted. She has a SANS/GSEC certification in security and prefers Heavy Duty Reynolds wrap for her tinfoil hat.
Software bugs that bug me – and how to swat them down
Sometimes when things go awry in Windows, the easiest fix is to undo the last thing you did. Here’s how to do some sleuthing to (hopefully) find and fix the problem.
How do you want Microsoft updates — in ‘dribbles’ or all at once?
Change is coming to the way Microsoft updates Windows and various apps. Are you ready?
Desktop tweaks in Windows can be fun, but watch out for risks
There have been various ways of customizing the Windows desktop over the years — remember Windows Vista gadgets? But make sure you keep security in mind.
Good-bye, Windows 7
Microsoft's popular operating system aged out of support this month. And while it still has many fans, it's time to move on.
It’s 2023 — time for new Windows hardware?
If the new year means a new Windows laptop, you’ll want to choose smartly. Here’s what to keep in mind if it’s time to upgrade.
The trials and tribulations of Microsoft’s KB5012170 patch
Earlier this year, Microsoft rolled out an update to Secure Boot in Windows systems. It's at best a mixed blessing that can do more harm than good for many users.
Instead of tech gifts, give updates and support
If you're thinking about what tech gifts you can hand out this year, take a step back and think about what's really important: hardware upgrades and tech support.
Making sense of out-of-band Windows updates and KIRs
Microsoft’s monthly security patches often have unintended side effects on Windows 10 and 11 systems. Out-of-band Windows updates and Known Issue Rollbacks can help. Here’s what you need to know.
For Windows 8, the end is near
For Windows 8 users still running the aging OS, the impending end-of-life deadline is getting close. Time to think about what to do next.
Beware going down the Windows beta-testing rabbit hole
Many tech geeks like to try out new Windows (and Office) features before they officially arrive. But beta testing can get confusing if you don't know what you're doing.
What does Windows 10 22H2 bring to the table? Not much.
Windows 11 isn't the only version to get a fall "22H2" update. Windows 10 has one, too. Here's what you need to know about it.