This year marks the 30th anniversary of Windows NT 4.0, a pivotal release that bridged the gap between the stability of the NT architecture and the user-friendly interface of Windows 95. Released in 1996, Windows NT 4.0 introduced a true 32-bit kernel, NTFS file system, and preemptive multitasking, setting new standards for professional computing. It successfully challenged Unix workstations and Novell NetWare servers, paving the way for the unification of Microsoft's operating systems into Windows 2000 and XP.

Microsoft has acknowledged that the .NET Framework updates released in August have caused printing and PDF export issues in applications using the Windows Presentation Foundation. The issue, which affects both Windows client and server releases, stems from a System.IO.FileFormatException when certain fonts are used. Microsoft has provided a temporary workaround but warns that it disables security protections.

It's deja vu as companies grapple with the high costs of GPU infrastructure for AI, somewhat reminiscent of the early days of cloud spending. Roan Weigert of GPU cloud provider GMI Cloud notes that while cloud cost discipline took years to develop, the stakes are now higher with GPUs costing more per hour. Weigert advises companies to focus on cost per request rather than hourly rates, and to adopt hybrid models combining reserved and usage-based capacity.

Windows 11's Smart App Control, a security feature introduced in version 22H2, no longer requires a clean installation to be enabled. This change allows users to toggle the feature on existing installations, making it easier to access its performance benefits. Smart App Control uses cloud-powered intelligence to block untrusted applications before they run, reducing the need for constant file scanning and thus lessening system strain. Users need to reset their PC or reinstall Windows and enable optional diagnostic data during setup.

AI agents are requiring enterprises to rethink IT roles and skills. The AI Workforce Consortium reports that 78% of cybersecurity jobs now demand AI skills, with a critical need for those with expertise in generative AI, large language models and AI ethics. The consortium's report notes a rise in G7 cybersecurity postings requiring AI skills, with an "agentic skill stack" emerging as a baseline for roles such as security engineering. New roles such as AI forensics expert are emerging, necessitating skills in digital forensics, data science and regulatory compliance.

Comprehensive training and development for supply chain managers is crucial amid geopolitical instability and rising customer expectations, writes Thomas Cook, the managing director of Blue Tiger International. Most professionals lack formal education in global trade, so companies should collaborate with industry associations, educational institutions and governmental agencies to create practical training programs, Cook writes.

A study by Rutgers and Cornell universities finds that frequent job hoppers adapt more quickly to new roles, reaching full productivity in two months compared with five months for other hires. The study of 8,700 hedge fund managers finds that job hoppers experience smaller initial performance dips. "They possess this hidden skill that we're overlooking from this bias against them," says Scott Bentley, an assistant professor of human-resource management at Rutgers.

As AI reshapes the threat landscape, CompTIA Chief Technology Evangelist Dr. James Stanger joins other cybersecurity leaders at Infosec Institute’s AI Cyber Readiness Summit on Aug. 26. Dr. Stanger and Right-Hand Cybersecurity CEO Theo Nasser will share new insights on emerging AI-driven threats, governance challenges and how security teams are preparing for an AI-powered future. The free virtual event will also spotlight the skills and workforce strategies needed to build AI-ready cybersecurity teams. Register at AI Cyber Readiness Summit.

The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh Technology Academy is helping residents build in-demand tech skills and create new pathways to economic opportunity. Sponsored by Google and Comcast, the 16-week hybrid program offers free instruction, course materials, certification exam vouchers and job placement assistance. Participants can prepare for CompTIA A+ certification, gaining practical skills in areas such as IT support, networking, operating systems, mobile devices and cybersecurity.