What is Softthinks and how do I disable it?

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

If you are noticing high disk usage in your Task Manager and the process behind it is Softthinks, you might be wondering what Softthinks is and whether it is a critical process before trying to end the process.

In this article, we answer what is Softthinks and how you can fix the high disk usage caused by Softhinks Service Agent on your Windows system.

What is Softthinks and why its Service Agent causes high disk usage?

  1. What is Softthinks?
  2. Can you Safely Disable Softhinks Service Agent and how to do it?
  3. Disable Softhinks Agent Service
  4. Uninstall Softhinks Agent Service

What is Softthinks?

To put it simply, Softhinks is a backup utility that runs in the background and does not have an interface hence easy to miss for the users. This process when in use creates a backup of your system and helps you to recover your system in case of fatal error or crash.

Sometimes, the process can cause issues with the system and slows down the system by using all the disk resources. The resource can reach up to 100% for the hard drive as well as 80% of the CPU usage.

This usually happens in case the utility is not compatible with the version of Windows you are running. When a process starts to use 100% of disk resources, the system does not have enough resources to perform other operations hence starts to feel slow and buggy.

Some users have reported that due to Softthinks service agent the computer freezes for more than a few hours with 100% disk usage.

Can you Safely Disable Softhinks Service Agent and how to do it?

Yes, you can disable Softhinks safely without affecting any of the critical functionality of your Windows system. It is not an essential service for Windows and most of the time creates high resource usage issues resulting in freezing and battery draining issues.

This issue mostly affects only Dell made laptops as the service is exclusive to the laptop maker. Dell includes this little backup utility with its devices; however, due to the issues, Dell has released several updates to the fix the issue.

If you don’t need the backup utility and never used it before, we recommend you to disable it.  Here is how you can disable Sofththinks agent service on your Windows 10 system.

Method 1: Disable Softhinks Agent Service

If you don’t want to delete the Dell backup utility just yet, you can choose to disable the service from starting automatically. Stopping the service will fix the high disk usage issue caused Softhinks service agents. Here is how to do it.

  1. Press “Windows Key + R” to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and hit enter.
  3. In the Services window, locate “Softhinks agent service”. You can search for the service by pressing S key on your keyboard.
  4. Right-click on “Softhinks agent services” and select Properties.
    Softthink Service Agent
  5. In the Properties window, click on the drop-down Menu for Startup type and select Disabled. If you want to be able to launch the Dell Backup utility manually, select Manual instead.
    Servicse - Startup Type
  6. Click on the Stop button for “Service status”. This will kill the Softhinks service agent process.
  7. Click on Apply > OK to save the changes.

Reboot your system. After the system restarts, open the task manager and check the disk usage. It should be normal as you have successfully disabled the Softhinks agent service.

Method 2: Uninstall Softhinks Agent Service

The Softhinks Agent Service is a software component of the DellBackuputility. If you don’t need the Dell Backup utility, you can uninstall it from your system.

  1. Press “Windows Key + R” to open Run.
  2. Type Control and hit enter to open the Control Panel.
    Programs and Features
  3. Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
  4. Find “Dell Backup and Recovery” and select it.
  5. Click on Uninstall option to remove the tool completely from your computer.
  6. Restart your computer.

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The Computer Unable to Establish Two-Way Communication With Device [FIX]

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Sometimes the HP printers, be it Wireless or wired printers, may stop printing and show unable to establish error while printing a document. This is a common error attributed to the HP Printers.

How do I fix the Computer is unable to establish two-way communication with the device error? Firstly, try running the HP Print and Scan Doctor. This dedicated tool by HP should fix the error upon scanning. If that doesn’t help, try updating and reinstalling the HP printer driver. Finally, if that fails as well and you’re still stuck with the error, try restoring network settings to default. Find out about these steps in detail below.

Fix the Computer is unable to establish two-way communication with the device error

  1. Run HP Print and Scan Doctor
  2. Uninstall and Reinstall HP Printer Driver
  3. Restore Network Settings to Default

1. Run HP Print and Scan Doctor

HP Print and Scan Doctor

Before applying any of the fixes listed in this article, it is always recommended that you perform a quick restart of your computer. At times, rebooting your system can fix the temporary error with the computer as well as the printer.

HP offers an HP Print and Scan Doctor troubleshooting software utility to diagnose your HP devices on Windows computer. The tool can automatically find and resolve the issues related to wireless printers and other printing machines.

  1. Go to the HP Support page.
  2. Under “HP Print and Scan Doctor for Windows PC” click on the Download button.
  3. Run the diagnostic tool after the download is complete. Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and repair the printer.

2. Uninstall and Reinstall HP Printer Driver

Most of the time this error is caused by a faulty driver installation or corrupted driver software. In any case, you can uninstall the HP Printer driver from your system and then reinstall it to fix the error. Here is how to do it.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
  2. Type control and hit enter.
  3. In the Control Panel, go to Programs > Programs and Features.
  4. Select your HP Printer and click on Uninstall.

Remove the Printer from the Setting

After uninstalling the HP Printer, you need to remove the device from the Settings. Here is how to do it.

  1. Click on Start and select Settings.
  2. Click on Devices.
  3. From the left pane, click on Printers and Scanners.
    HP Printer - Remvoe Devices - Settings
  4. Under Printer and Scanner, look for your HP printer.
  5. Select your HP printer and click on Remove Device.

Uninstall Printer Drivers

After removing the Printer from the Device tab in settings, you need to uninstall the driver for the printer from the Printer Server Properties. Here is how to do it.

  1. Press Windows Key + R, to open the Run dialogue box.
  2. Type printui.exe /s and hit enter. It will open the Print Server Properties.
  3. Go to the Driver tab.
  4. Under “Installed Printer drivers” look for HP Printer.
  5. Select the HP Printer driver and click on Remove button.
    Printer Properties Server - Remvoe
  6. Click OK to confirm the choice.
  7. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
  8. Close the Print Server Properties window.

Install New Printer Drivers

  1. Restart your system. After the restart, you need to install HP printer drivers from the official website.
  2. Go to HP website drivers section.
  3. Find the drivers compatible with your Printer as well the Windows version.
  4. Download the drivers and install the driver for the first printer.  If successful try to install the driver for the second printer as well.

3. Restore Network Settings to Default

On your Wireless printer, you can try to restore the network setting to default to fix the error. By resetting the settings, you force the printer to use fresh configuration thus removing any old broken configuration.

  1. On your Printer, press the Wireless button and the Cancel button simultaneously.
  2. Keep the buttons pressed for three seconds and then release them.

Once the Settings are restored to factory default, connect the printer to the network.

  1. Press and hold the Wireless button on your printer for 3 seconds. It will start the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) push mode. The Wireless lights should start blinking once the WPS mode is activated.
  2. Press the WPS button your network router to begin the connection.

Use the Pin Method

You can also connect your printer to the network using the PIN method.

  1. Press the Wireless button and information button at the same time on your printer. This will print the Network configuration page. Locate the WPS PIN in the page (top of the page).
  2. Press and hold the Wireless button on your printer until the Wireless lights start blinking.
  3. Open the Router software on your computer and enter the WPS PIN generated from the printer to connect it to the network.

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Steam Failed to Update Borrower (Rate Limit Exceeded) [FIX]

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Steam allows the users to share their library with their friend allows you to share the games and more. However, at times you may experience Failed to update borrower error.

The full error reads Failed to update borrower (rate limit exceeded). The error can occur either on your front or your friend end while he is sharing the game with you. If you are facing similar error, here is how to troubleshoot this steam related error in your Windows 10 device.

Steam won’t update borrower? Learn how to fix it below

  1. Check if you have Reached the Sharing Limit
  2. Re-Authorize a Shared Library
  3. Check for Steam Updates
  4. Contact Support and Wait

1. Check if you have Reached the Sharing Limit

A Steam account may authorize Family Library Sharing on up to 5 accounts only. So, if you have already authorized 5 accounts to borrow the games, this error is obvious.

To fix this you need to revoke access from one of the friends or family members who is not using the access. Here is how to do it.

  1. Launch the Steam Client on your PC.
  2. Click on Steam and select Settings.
  3. Under Settings, click on the Family.
  4. Under the Family Tab, click on Manage other computers.Steam - Setting - Family - Manager Other computer
  5. You will be asked to enter the 4 digit security code. Enter the code click OK.
  6. In the next window, you will see all the account that you have authorized to gain access.Steam Library Revoke Family Sharing Access
  7. Select the friend or family member account you want to revoke access and click on the Revoke button.

That’s it. The access is now revoked. However, you may have to wait for 90 days to end the cooling period before adding another family member and giving them Steam Library access.

2. Re-Authorize a Shared Library

If you haven’t reached your sharing limit or if you were not trying to add a new user, try to re-authorize a shared library. It is always a good idea to ensure that Family Sharing is working correctly. Here is how to do it.

  1. Launch Steam and sing in with your Steam account.
  2. Click on Steam and select Settings.
  3. Click on Family and click on Manager other computers.
    Steam - Setting - Family - Manager Other computer
  4. You need to enter your security code again.
  5. From “Manage Family Library Sharing” deauthorize the device is giving you issues.
  6. Now, ask your friend (the borrower) to attempt the launch one of the games in the shared library.  This should send a new request to the owner.
    Steam- Family Sharing - Request Game Access from Owner
  7. An Authorization email will be sent to the game owner.
  8. Open your email account associated with the Steam account and click on the link in the email from Steam to authorize that computer and grant access to the library.

3. Check for Steam Updates

If it is a known bug, Valve might have released an update for Steam. If your Steam client did not update automatically, you may have to update your Steam client manually. Here is how to do it.

  1. Launch Steam.
  2. Click on Steam from the top menu and select Check for Steam Client Updates option.
    Steam - Check for updates
  3. Steam will check for any pending update and start downloading it. Wait for the installation to complete.
  4. Once done, try to add your friend using Family Library Sharing menu and check for any improvements.

4. Contact Support and Wait

Steam is not known for its great support when it comes to Family Library Sharing feature. There is no way to know if you have reached you sharing limit and how many days are remaining in the cooling down period to end.

What you can do is contact the Steam support and raise a ticket with your concern. If no response or adequate response is provided you may have to wait for several weeks before you can add another account for Family Library Sharing in Steam.

Rate limit problems affect other services as well, and we have a new guide that show you what to do if Resource is being rate limited in Discord, so don’t miss it.

Posted in Fix

5 woman calendar software to track your fertility

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Ladies, if you and bae are trying to conceive, and you’re tired of marking off dates on a physical calendar, your cries have been heard.

Woman calendar software is the right tool to help you calculate fertility. Check and track your regular period and ovulation, on a digital (mobile) platform.

This software simply uses your menstrual cycle information to calculate your fertility.

All you do is enter your menstrual cycle dates from the first to the last, including luteal phase length.

Then create a calendar to start viewing, checking and tracking your fertility.

With woman calendar software, you no longer need a physical calendar to add check off marks.

You can bookmark your calendar for present and future reference, as long as you don’t forget the start date of your last menstrual period.

This software may then assist you to conceive, avoid unwanted pregnancy by indicating the days you need to be abstinent, or if you like, conceive a girl or boy.

Here are the top 5 woman calendar software tools you can use by yourself or with your partner.

  1. LadyTimer
  2. Fertility Friend
  3. Eovulation
  4. JX Lab
  5. Fertility Calendar (EOS Consulting)

Best woman calendar software to get today

Ladytimer

woman calendar software

This is a woman calendar software that tracks and predicts menstrual cycle days, and helps women get pregnant, or avoid unwanted pregnancy.

It is easy to use, is best used for irregular periods, and accessible on any device or computer.

Features include accurate ovulation forecast with its advanced prediction algorithms, ovulation calendar options such as symptoms, moods, weight, and temperature, reminders for period.

Also, they include ovulation and medical exams, fertility calendar with temperature charts, menstrual period history, pregnancy mode, and automatic backup and sync.

You can actually forecast the baby’s sex – girl or boy – plus engage chat and direct messaging with other Ladytimer users, track intimacy, get reminders to take your birth control pills.

You can share your data with your doc or partner, and use the ovulation calculator that has a cervical mucus tracker so you know exactly where you’re at.

All you do is track your start period date monthly, then it calculates the cycle for you. You can also key in your morning body temperature or ovulation tests and mucus for precise fertility tracking.

Get Ladytimer

Get the browser version of the app

Fertility Friend

woman calendar software

This woman calendar software helps moms to be observe and jot down signs of fertility, thus predicting the best days for conceiving or taking a pregnancy test altogether.

You can get it for free, though it comes with a $45 annual premium membership with access to message boards, and quality features such as intercourse timing analyzer.

Also, it offers updated and detailed analyses of your fertility signs that may lead to pregnancy.

Since its inception in 1998, Fertility Friend boasts over 15 years of experience and more than 650000 pregnancies and counting, making it the pioneer in fertility charting.

It is super accurate, empowers you to know your body better, and provides privacy and clarity with web access.

Features include a Fertility Chart (or Basal Body Temperature chart) that observes and records your fertility signs which you can see in your daily status and know your most fertile times.

What makes it work better is your body’s cues that show your status throughout your cycle.

You also get simple educational videos and in-depth resources so you can understand your body signals and fertility better.

It assesses the data you enter for signs of ovulation, pregnancy, and your most fertile days.

It also suggests the best test date to minimize your wait, and help avoid the disappointment of early testing.

The calendar is color coded and has a custom chart based on your own fertility, plus you can see your timing and how all the signs come together in an ultra-precise and reliable platform.

Get Fertility Friend

Eovulation

woman calendar software

This is a woman calendar software that promises to help you get pregnant faster, using natural birth control method to calculate safe days, with an unconditional, no questions asked money-back policy within 60 days of getting the software.

Features include ovulation day prediction, safe days calculation, color-coded ovulation chart that displays most fertile and safe days, password protection for user profiles.

They also include calculation of the most probable conception days for either sex of the baby, basal body temperature charting, and tracking of premenstrual syndrome.

You can also get optional daily notes with alerts and reminders, and make your personal ovulation into a live desktop wallpaper with this woman calendar software.

Get Eovulation

JX Lab

woman calendar software

The JX woman calendar software is designed for any woman who is trying to conceive, avoid unwanted pregnancy or define the future child’s gender.

It calculates ovulation time so as to generate your personal menstrual cycle and fertility calendar.

Features include managing notes and personal profiles, menstrual cycle history, hand and easy adjustable interface, multilingual interface, support for XP themes, automatic startup on Windows, printing and ability to create print templates, and easy, quick installation.

You can use this woman calendar software to control your cycle on your mobile phone using the free JX ovulation calendar version for mobile phones.

Get JX Ovulation Calendar

Fertility Calendar (EOS Consulting)

woman software calendar 2019

This woman calendar software is available for download from Microsoft.

It helps you track and predict your ovulation cycle including your most fertile days of the month.

You can use it if you’re trying to conceive or avoid unwanted pregnancy.

Features include an easy to read calendar that displays your cycle and fertile days, prediction of your next cycle, adjustable period start date, cycle and period length, as well as your luteal phase duration.

It is also small in size so it won’t take up much space for just 1.2MB.

Get Fertility Calendar

Have you settled on which woman calendar you’d like to use to track your cycle and fertility? Share with us which one you’re ready to download and try by leaving a comment in the section below.

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3 Best Windows Restart Scheduler Tools to Use in 2026

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Need to restart your PC regularly without the hassle? In this guide, we’ll show you the 3 best Windows restart scheduler tools.

Whether you’re dealing with Windows Update issues or running maintenance tasks overnight, these tools let you control when your system restarts, no surprises.

What are the best tools to schedule Windows 10 restarts?

Wise Auto Shutdown – Silent running mode

This free tool allows you to schedule the PC to shut down, restart, power off, log off, sleep or hibernate on a regular basis or only once, at a specific time.

Thanks to Wise Auto Shutdown, power management becomes easier and less time-consuming.

Also, you can enable reminders so you will be notified 5 minutes before the tool executes the task.

In this manner, if you still need to use your computer, you can delay the task by 10 minutes or up to 4 hours.

The user interface is very simple, as the tool is divided into two panels. On the left panel, you can select which task you want to perform, and on the right panel, you can specify when you want the task to be executed.

Also, Wise Auto Shutdown has a silent running mode. Therefore, when a task starts, the program will minimize in the system tray to run without disturbing the user.

Wise Auto Shutdown requires only 1.6 MB to install, and you can download it for free from WiseCleaner.

Wise Auto Shutdown

Finish various tasks automatically and appoint a concrete execution time with this great tool.
Free Download Get it now

Shutter – User manual

shutter-schedule-windows-10-restart


This tool is a complex scheduling utility that supports many different events and actions.

Apart from restarting your computer, Shutter also allows you to shut down, log off, lock, sleep, hibernate, and turn off your computer.

This utility also comes with a user manual that offers full, step-by-step guides for all the events and actions this tool supports.

To schedule your computer to restart, you first need to add the restart action to the list.

Select the Reboot option from the left-hand panel, then click on Add and schedule the date and time of the restart.

⇒ Get Shutter

Chameleon Shutdown – Simple app

chameleon-shutdown-schedule-windows-10-restart

This tool allows you to switch off, restart, hibernate the computer, and perform other operations.

You can perform these actions immediately or schedule them and add as many actions as possible without limitation.

Chameleon Shutdown’s interface is very easy to use.

To schedule Windows 10 to restart, click the Restart tab and select “With Parameters”. Then, set the specified restart time and click on Start.

You can download Chameleon Shutdown for free from Chameleon-Managers.

⇒ Get Chameleon Shutdown

How to schedule tasks with Windows built-in tools

As a quick reminder, if you prefer to schedule restarts using the Settings menu, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Update & security > Advanced options.

2. From the drop-down menu, select the option Notify to schedule restart.

schedule-windows-10-restart

3. Go back to Windows Update > Select a restart time > schedule the restart.

Aside from scheduling restarts, you can restart your PC with your keyboard.

You can also schedule a shutdown on Windows 10 and on Windows 11.

Have you already tried out one of these three tools to schedule Windows 10 restarts? Tell us more about your experience in the comment section below.

AOL will not accept delivery of this message Office 365 error [Fix]

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

AOL will not accept delivery of this message error is usually seen when there is a problem with the AOL’S DNS reverse system, or when trying to send an email.

The cause of this error cannot be clearly stated by AOL. In some instances, the error appeared when the email was containing suspicious links. However, there’s a way to deal with this error message once and for all.

What causes AOL message delivery errors?

AOL will not accept delivery of this message error might come to play when the user‘s email account has been hacked by spammers. If that’s the case, your email will be blocked by AOL in order to prevent the spread of spam messages.

To fix this issue, it’s advised that you contact AOL personnel and make sure that your account isn’t hacked.

How can I fix AOL will not accept delivery of this message error? This error usually occurs if your AOL account is hacked. To fix it, make sure that your email account is in good reputation. If case your account is hacked, contact AOL support.

How can I fix AOL will not accept delivery of this message errors?

Anytime you experience the AOL will not accept delivery of this message error, you can take the first step by checking the AOL’s Master Tool in order to check your email‘s reputation. This tool will check your email for any spam reports.

To verify your email, you just need to enter your email IP address. If your IP address says Whitelisted it simply means the error is not on your end and will be rectified by AOL.

If the message says Undisclosed it means your email reputation is still being checked by AOL. However, if your IP address has a Poor status it means that your email account has been blacklisted.

To fix this issue, it’s advised to temporarily disable your account. Once this is done, you can contact AOL and ask them to enable your account. Bear in mind that this process can take over a month, so you’ll have to be extra patient.

If you do not know the IP address of your mail, you can find out by doing the following:

  1. Press Windows key + R.
    ping run window AOL will not accept delivery of this message
  2.  Type ping mail.yourdomainname.com and press Enter.
  3.  You should be able to get your IP address from the new window.ping results

AOL will not accept delivery of this message error can be quite problematic, but hopefully you managed to fix it after using our guide.

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Microsoft Photos gains internet powered “Similar Search” feature thanks to Bing

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft is adding another nifty new feature to its Photos app for Windows 10 devices. The company is adding a “Search for similar images in Bing” option in the right-click context menu that can be accessed from the selected image screen.

According to MSPoweruser, the update should be live to all users of the Photos app on Windows 10. However, only some of our machines have picked up the update so far, one of which is running the Photos Preview program.

To begin a similar search and share the image with Bing, you’ll have to agree to allow the company to process the file online, as well as potentially use it to improve its search engine image processing services. The company has been big on privacy settings lately, so rest assured you won’t have to worry about prying eyes looking at your private photos without your consent.

From our brief experience, the feature seems to still be broken, as sharing an image brings a blank white browser screen with no results. If this is the case for all users, it’s doubtful that Microsoft has pushed it to anyone except potentially a small handful of people to see what they think before they release it to everyone.

In addition to the new search powered by Bing, Microsoft has also improved the video editor with new animated text styles—Simple, Quiet, Cinema, and Bold— as well as a Duplicate Project option if you’d like to keep an extra copy.

If you’re interested, you can go ahead and download the latest update of the Photos app and let us know in the comments if you’re able to see the new menu option. Please keep in mind that right-clicking an image after you selected from your gallery will bring up the context menu with Similar Search with Bing as the last selection.

In addition, Microsoft is also working to bring automatic People tags and other quick editing tools to the Microsoft photos app to help put it closer to par with Google Photos and iCloud.

Microsoft Photos
Microsoft Photos
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Microsoft Photos
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Microsoft Corporation
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Microsoft to offer two custom Game of Thrones Xbox One consoles to lucky fans

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft’s Xbox One S All Digital edition has only been available for purchase for a couple of days now. However, that hasn’t stopped HBO from partnering with Microsoft to produce the two different special Game of Thrones edition disk-less consoles in celebration of the series’ final season. Of course, as always, these special edition consoles are not available for sale, instead they are available as a prize to those who win it in one of the contests.

As described on the Xbox Wire blog post, the House Targaryen console features the Targaryen crest, which sits on top of the casing which resemble leather dragon scales. Those who would like to take a shot at potentially winning one of these must follow the official Xbox Twitter account, and retreat the reveal post using the #GamerThrones and #Sweepstakes hashtags.

The Night King console features a “weathered tin metal” which is intended to resemble his armor as seen in the series. Similarly to the House Targaryen console, the system can be won by liking the reveal post on Facebook.

The contests will begin starting today, and the last chance to participate will land on May 22nd. Only one of each consoles are available, so if you’re a big Game of Thrones fan, you hate disks, and you love ultra-rare items, then it’s definitely something for you to check out.

Of course, even if you don’t win one of these, Microsoft still has other Game of Thrones giveaways. If you pre-order the season 8 on Xbox through the Microsoft Movies and TV app, you can receive a free exclusive Iron Throne avatar for your Xbox Live account. Additionally, you can also choose to bundle the entire eight-season collection altogether and get two additional free avatars.

Lenovo unveils three new Windows 10 Thinkpads

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

Despite there being little to no Build news on the Windows 10 operating system front, Windows OEM partners are still pumping out devices that leverage the OS in combination with ever-evolving user request features that make using Windows that much more desired.

One of Microsoft’s premier partners in Lenovo just announced the launch of upgrades to a handful of devices from its ThinkPad line of laptops.

The Lenovo ThinkPad T495, T495s, and X395 represent the company’s medium-range flagship productivity offerings for businesses.

The retooled T and X lineup will include 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen 7 Pro Mobile processors with integrated AMD Vega graphics for better battery management when flying through macro-enabled Excel workbooks and multi-media heavy PowerPoint presentations.

Lenovo has previously offered AMD SKU’s for its more entry-level ThinkPad lines in the A and E series but as of today, its more mid-range devices are getting the switch which could represent an acknowledgment in software evolution or a loosening of the stranglehold Intel has had on its hardware.

Now, these are different SKU’s with different processors which mean different hardware support for the motherboards are in order and owners of the AMD versions of the T495, T495s and X395 will have to forego Thunderbolt 3 support, QHD panel options, and slightly less battery output. In exchange of missing Thunderbolt support, the new laptops will come with support for the newer HDMI v2.0 port protocol and users will be able to use existing T490 and X390 docking stations with the new laptops.

Lenovo expects to ship the ThinkPad T495 for $939.00 in late May, the T495s for $1089 in May as well and the X395 for $1089.00 sometime in June.

Tacoma, Surviving Mars, and Black Desert join the Xbox Game Pass video game library today

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Tacoma, Black Desert, and Surviving Mars are the latest Xbox One video games to come to the Xbox Game Pass subscription service. As of today, all three titles are available to play in full for subscribers.

Tacoma launched on the Xbox One in 2017 and is a futuristic story-based video game with a variety of puzzles to solve and plotlines to uncover. Here’s its official description and trailer:

The Venturis Corporation wants their AI back. That’s where you come in. Tacoma is a narrative adventure set aboard a high-tech space station in the year 2088. As you go about your mission, you’ll explore every detail of how the station’s crew lived and worked, finding the clues that add up to a gripping story of trust, fear, and resolve in the face of disaster.

At the heart of Tacoma is the facility’s digital surveillance system, which has captured 3D recordings of pivotal moments in the crew’s life on the station. As you explore, echoes of these captured moments surround you. You’ll use your ability to rewind, fast-forward, and move through the physical space of these complex, interwoven scenes to examine events from every angle, reconstructing the multi-layered narrative as you explore. Tacoma is the next game from the creators of Gone Home, and carries on that tradition of detailed, immersive, and powerful storytelling, while pulling players deeper into the narrative than ever before.

Black Desert is an online roleplaying game that supports worlds with up to 100,000 players. It launched on Xbox One back in March of this year and supports 4K Ultra HD when played on an Xbox One X console.

Black Desert is a living-world MMORPG. Experience fast-paced, action-packed combat, hunt monsters and huge bosses, fight with friends in a guild to siege nodes and region castles, train your life skills such as fishing, trading, crafting, cooking, and much more!
Players will enjoy jaw-dropping graphics, intuitive skill-based combat, and an immersive story encased in our expansive world that’s just waiting to be explored.

Accompanied by a Black Spirit, a companion whose destiny is intertwined with their own, players will discover the secret of the Black Stones and the history of their corrupting effects. In a medieval fantasy setting, the game chronicles a conflict between two rival nations, the Republic of Calpheon and the Kingdom of Valencia. With a battle based on achievements and personal qualifications, Black Desert gives full control to players that can directly aim, escape and make numerous different skill combinations.

Surviving Mars debuted on the Xbox One in 2018 and is a Sci-Fi city building game set on, as its title suggests, the planet Mars. It also features 4K Ultra HD when played on an Xbox One X. Here’s its official game description:

Colonize Mars and discover her secrets, with minimal casualties. Welcome Home! The time has come to stake your claim on the Red Planet and build the first functioning human colonies on Mars! All you need are supplies, oxygen, decades of training, experience with sandstorms, and a can-do attitude to discover the purpose of those weird black cubes that appeared out of nowhere. With a bit of sprucing up, this place is going to be awesome!

Surviving Mars is a sci-fi city builder all about colonizing Mars and surviving the process. Choose a space agency for resources and financial support before determining a location for your colony. Build domes and infrastructure, research new possibilities and utilize drones to unlock more elaborate ways to shape and expand your settlement. Cultivate your own food, mine minerals or just relax by the bar after a hard day’s work. Most important of all, though, is keeping your colonists alive. Not an easy task on a strange new planet. There will be challenges to overcome. Execute your strategy and improve your colony’s chances of survival while unlocking the mysteries of this alien world. Are you ready? Mars is waiting for you.

May has been a pretty good month for new Xbox Game Pass titles. Other titles added to the library this month include Descenders, Wolfenstein II, and Wargroove.

Do you use Xbox Game Pass? Let us know which titles you’ll be playing this month in the comments below and then follow us on Twitter for more Xbox gaming news.

Tacoma
Tacoma
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QR-Code

Tacoma
Developer:
Fullbright
Price:
$19.99


Black Desert
Black Desert
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Black Desert
Developer:
Pearl Abyss
Price:
Free


Surviving Mars
Surviving Mars
Download
QR-Code

Surviving Mars
Developer:
Paradox Interactive
Price:
$29.99

Insiders can now test dark mode on OneNote app

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Dark theme is trending right now as many Windows 10 design elements got it.

Microsoft’s Mike Tholfsen announced on Twitter that Windows 10 user would soon see a dialogue box when they create a new notebook. Based on their specific conditions, this dialogue box will help them to easily set up default sections. Additionally, the OneNote application also got Fluent design features.

Windows Insiders are currently testing OneNote in dark mode. Redditor Grindiot shared a glimpse of the test feature. Microsoft kept the same color scheme as it used for File Explorer and the Microsoft Office Suite.

OneNote users can easily switch between dark and light modes using a built-in toggle button. Moreover, the same feature is also available in the settings app. Many Reddit users also noticed that the color of their pens turned darker.

The feature is not yet available to all users

As mentioned above, Microsoft rolled out the update to a small group of Windows Insiders. You can check for updates through Microsoft Store.

Unfortunately, the update may fail to install for some users.

Opted into Insider last night. Woke up, still nothing. Checked for windows update. Just a windows defender update, nothing more. Restarted my computer. Still nothing. Toggling “dark theme” and “high contrast mode” does nothing. Checked version number: “Version 16001.11601.20066.0”. Uninstalled and reinstalled OneNote. Version now says “Version 16001.11629.20028.0”, but the the “insider” checkbox is now unchecked. I hope that doesn’t put me in the bottom of the queue. Checked the box and will continue to restart, check for updates.

The criteria by which Microsoft decides to distribute Insider updates to selective people remain unknown. If you’re not an Insider, all you can do is wait until Microsoft releases the update to all users in the coming weeks.

 

An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache [FIX]

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Microsoft Office uses the Office Document cache to make sure the changes made to the Office files are saved in the cloud. Sometime, the files may get corrupted or damaged due to abrupt closing of the application and show office document cache error.

The full error reads An error occurred while accessing the Office Document Cache. Close and reopen the Upload Center to try again. If the problem persists, move or delete the cache in the Upload Center settings dialog box. If you are facing this error, here is how to troubleshoot this problem on your Windows system.

Can’t access the Office Document Cache? Here’s what you need to do

  1. Delete Microsoft Office Document Cache
  2. Kill Microsoft Upload Center Task / Delete Registry Keys
  3. Uninstall Skydrive
  4. Use third-party software for Office errors

1. Delete Microsoft Office Document Cache

The first method to fix this error is to delete your Microsoft Office Document Cache manually. Deleting the cache does not affect your saved documents but helps you to fix the syncing issue.  Here is a two-step guide to doing the same.

Perform a Clean Boot

Performing a Clean Boot is not necessary but recommended. This is to ensure that cache files don’t get loaded during startup and stop the user from deleting them. Here is how to do it.

  1. Press Windows Key + R, to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type msconfig and hit enter to open System Configuration.
  3. In the System Configuration window, click on Services tab.System Configuration - Services - Hide microsoft services
  4. Now, click on “Hide all the Microsoft Services” option. This will hide all the essential Microsoft Services.
  5. Now you need to disable all the remaining services. Click on the “Disable All” button.
  6. Go to the Startup tab and click on the Open Task Manager.
    startup tab An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  7. In the Task Manager window, under the Startup tab, select all the startup apps and click on Disable. Disable all the apps one by one.
    Disable All Startup apps An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  8. Close the Task manager and go back to the System Configuration window.
  9. Click Apply and then click OK to save the changes.
  10. Close the System Configuration window and restart your system.

Delete Microsoft Office Document Cache

After the system restarts in Clean Boot state, do the following.

  1.  Type Microsoft Upload Center in the Cortana/Search bar.
  2. Click on Microsoft Upload Center to open it.
    Microsoft Upload Center - Settings An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  3. Now, click on Settings.
    Microsoft Upload Center - Delete Cache An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  4. Click on the Delete cached files button to delete the cache. Click OK.
  5. Close Microsoft Upload Center.

Open System Configuration and enable all the services that you disabled. After the restart, you should have resolved the Microsoft Office Document cache error.

2. Kill Microsoft Upload Center Task / Delete Registry Keys

If the issue persists, you can try to kill the Upload Center services and then delete the Cache files manually. We will also delete a few keys from the Registry editor. Here is a three-step guide to doing the same.

Kill the Upload Center Task

  1. Right-click on the Taskbar and select “Task Manager”.
  2. In the Process tab, click on the Name tab to sort using the name.
  3. Look for a process named “Microsoft Office Upload Center”.Microsoft Upload Center - Process - Task Manager An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  4. Right-click on Microsoft Office Upload Center and click on “Go to details”.
  5. Here you can see all the service that “Microsoft Upload Center” is using.
    Microsoft Upload - Taks Manager - MSOUC-EXE - End task An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  6. Right-click on “NSOUC.EXE” and select End Task.
  7. See if any other Microsoft Upload Center related services are running. Select all the related services and click on End Task. If no more services found, close the Task Manager.

Delete FileIO Registry Keys

  1. Press Windows Key + R.
  2. Type regedit and hit Enter.
    Upload Center - delete Registry Keys FileIO An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
    • ComputerHKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftOffice16.0CommonFileIO
  4. Delete all the keys inside the FileIO folder.
  5. Close the Registry Editor.

Want to block access to registry editing tools? Here’s how to do that properly!

Rename and Delete OfficeFileCache Folder

Note: First make sure to enable Hidden Items in the File Explorer to unhide any hidden items in the Office folder.

  1. Open “File Explorer”.
  2. Click on the View tab.
  3. Under the Show/Hide section “Hidden items” box is checked.
    show hidden items file explorer An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  4. In the File Explorer navigate to the following location.
  5. %userprofile%AppDataLocalMicrosoftOffice
  6. Open your Office version folder. In this case, it is office 2016/2019 so click on 16.0. If you are running Office 2013, click on 15.0 folder.
    Upload Center - FileCache folder An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  7. Here you should see a folder named OfficeFileCache.
    Office Upload Center - OLDfileCache An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  8. Select the OfficeFileCahche folder and rename it as Old_OfficeFileCache.
  9. After the file is renamed, reboot/restart the system.
    Upload Center - OldFileCache Delete An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache
  10. After the Restart check if the Microsoft Upload Center is recreating the folder named OfficeFileCache inside %userprofile%AppDataLocalMicrosoftOffice16.0
  11. If the new OfficeFileCache Folder is created, delete the Old_OfficeFileCache folder.

3. Uninstall Skydrive

skydrive An error occurred when accessing the Office Document Cache

If you have SkyDrive installed, you can fix the issue by uninstalling Skydrive and then reinstalling it. Here is how to do it.

  1. Launch Skydrive and remove your computer from the drive.
  2. Go to Control > Program > Programs and Features. Select Skydrive and click on Uninstall.
  3. Download and Install Skydrive.
  4. Reboot your system and check for any improvements

4. Use third-party software for Office errors

Another solution is to use a reliable third-party tool that is compatible with every version of Microsoft Office and aims to repair, as well as recover damaged or corrupted files.

This is an easy and safe way to retrieve important data you lost in its original form and fix .doc, .docx, XLS/.XLSX, and .ppt/.pptx/.pptm files.

⇒ Get Stellar Repair for Office

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Can’t Extend the Drive in Windows 10/11? Here’s What to Do

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Most users install their programs (games and applications) on the system (C:) drive by default. If you use too many applications, the drive will run out of free space. You can use the Disk Management tool to extend the volume to increase the C: drive size.

However, when users sometimes try to extend the volume using the Disk Management tool, some notice that the Extend Volume option is greyed out, and they cannot extend the drive. Here is how to fix the greyed-out Extend Volume option in Windows 10.

What to do if you’re unable to extend a drive in Windows 10?

1. Use AOMEI Partition Assistant to Merge Partition

AOMEI is a free partition assistant tool that allows you to extend and shrink the disk partition without deleting any other partition. This option is better than the second method, where you would have to delete the D: drive to extend the C: drive volume. Here is how to do it.

  1. Download and install the AOMEI Partition Assistant.
  2. After the installation is overrun AOMEI Partition Assistant
    AOMEI Partition - Merge Partition
  3. Right-click on the C: Drive and select Merge Partitions.
  4. In the Merger Partitions window, select the Unallocated space.
    add-unallocated-space-to-c-drive
  5. Click OK to proceed.
  6. Next, preview the action. Click Apply and Proceed to save the changes.

What to do if you don’t have unallocated space to extend the volume?

AOMEI Partition Assistant allows you to allocate free space from the D: drive to C: drive without deleting the partition. Here is how to do it.

  1. Launch AOMEI Partition Assistant.
  2. Right-click on the D: > drive and select the “Allocate Free Space” option.
    AOMEI Partition - Allocate Free Space
  3. In the Allocate Free Space interface, select amount of space you want to allocate to the C: drive.
    AOMEI Partition - Allocate Free Space- D to C
  4. Make sure you select the C: drive as the target drive for allocating the space.
  5. Click OK to proceed.
  6. Preview the space allocation and click on Apply and Proceed to save the changes.

AOMEI Partition Assistant

Manage your partitions and make sure your system is in top shape with this professional software.
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2. Create Qualified Unallocated Space

The reason why the Extend Volume option is greyed out in the disk management tool is because of the unallocated space is not right contiguous to the C drive. To make it work, you need to put the unallocated space right next to the C drive and then extend the volume. Here is how to do it.

To do this, you need to delete the partition next to the C: drive that is D: drive in most of the cases. So, begin with taking the backup of your data in the D: > drive. Once the backup is ready, proceed with the following steps.

  1. In the Cortana/search bar, type Create and format and open Create and Format hard disk partitions.
    Disk Management tool - Delete E Drive
  2. Right-click on the D:> drive (E: in this case) and select Delete volume.  (The D drive here is representational. If you have any other letter drive between the C drive and unallocated space, you need to delete that volume).
  3. A pop-up window will appear, asking you to confirm the Delete Volume action. Click on Yes.

Now, you will see the partition next to the C: drive is unallocated. You can easily extend the C: volume without any problem.

  1. Right-click on the C: > drive and select Extend Volume.
  2. Proceed with the on-screen instruction to increase the C: drive size.

You see how simple it is to merge unallocated space in Windows.

These are the two ways to extend the volume for C: drive and fix the Extend Volume greyed out in the disk management tool.

I prefer the first method as it is easier, offers more options, and it does not require deleting any partitions to extend the C: drive. However, if you don’t want to install third-party software to extend the drive, you can go with the second method to the same effect.

Windows 10 20H1 build 18894 is out with File Explorer and Accessibility improvements

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft has just announced the release of Windows 10 20H1 build 18894 for Windows Insiders in the Fast Ring. After lots of 20H1 builds with no significant new features, the new bits finally bring something new to test with a new File Explorer search experience.

Select Insiders will see after installing this new build that the File explorer search box can now show content from OneDrive, and the search results will also be actionable. This new search experience is powered by Windows Search, and Microsoft says that only a small percentage of Insiders will see it at first.

If the File Explorer improvements are the main highlight in this build, Microsoft is also bringing some Narrator and Windows Mangnifier improvements. You can learn more details in the full release notes below:

File Explorer improvements

We’ve heard your feedback asking for increased consistency, and to make it easier to find your files. Over the next few days we’ll be starting to roll out a new File Explorer search experience – now powered by Windows Search. This change will help integrate your OneDrive content online with the traditional indexed results. This rollout will start with a small percent, and then we’ll increase the rollout to more Insiders as we validate the quality of the experience.

What does that mean for you? Once you have the new experience, as you type in File Explorer’s search box, you’ll now see a dropdown populated with suggested files at your fingertips that you can pick from.

These improved results can be launched directly by clicking the entry in the new suggestions box, or if you want to open the file location, just right-click the entry and there’ll be an option to do so. If you need to use commands or dig deeper into non-indexed locations, you can still press enter and populate the view with the traditional search results.

Showing the new dropdown that appears when you type in File Explorer’s search box.

We’ve also updated the design, so now as soon as you click the search box in File Explorer (or press CTRL+E to set focus to it), you’ll see the dropdown list with your search history.

If you encounter any issues, or have any feedback, file them under “Files, Folders, and Online Storage” > “File Explorer” in the Feedback Hub.

NOTES: You may notice in the screenshot, we’ve made the File Explorer search box wider so the suggestions dropdown has a bit more room to show results – that’s not a new option, but we figured you might want to know how to do it: just move your mouse to the starting border of the search box, and your mouse should turn into a resizing double arrow cursor. Just click down and drag the search box to be a bit wider.

Accessibility improvements

  • Narrator table reading improvements: Narrator is now more efficient when reading tables. Only the deltas are read when navigating. Entering and exiting tables is also less verbose.
  • Narrator web page summary: There’s a new command in Narrator to give a webpage summary! (Narrator + S). Currently this command will give information about hyperlinks, landmarks and headings.
  • Magnifier text cursor setting: Windows Magnifier has a new ability to keep the text cursor in the center of the screen making it easier and smoother to type. Centered on the screen is on by default and can be changed in the Magnifier settings.

As usual, this new 20H1 build also brings several bug fixes and general improvements, and you can learn more in our separate post. Don’t forget to tune it to the Windows Insider webcast at 11:30AM PST as the Windows Insider team may well have more interesting news for us today.

Tune in to the Windows Insider webcast live from Build 2019 at 11:30AM PDT

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft’s Build 2019 developer conference is still ongoing in Seattle and there will be a new Windows Insider webcast will be recorded live from the event. As usual, the show will be streamed live on Mixer and it will kick off at 11:30AM PDT this morning.

Hopefully, we got some new information about Microsoft’s new Chromium-based Edge browser this week, the event has been pretty light on Windows 10 news so far. We didn’t hear any details about the upcoming 19H2 update for Windows 10, and Microsoft has also yet to announce when the May 2019 update will start rolling out to Windows 10 users.

We’re not sure what to expect from today’s webcast, but the Windows Insider team did mention a new PWA version of the Windows Insider website (not to be confused with the Feedback Hub).

There could be more surprises for Insiders during the webcast, including a new 20H1 build, so make sure to tune in this morning at 11:30AM PDT.

Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed [BEST FIXES]

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Today, we bring you a comprehensive guide on how to fix the Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed error in Windows 10.

When this error occurs, it often results in various forms of system malfunctions, ranging from abrupt reboot to search service malfunction. Basically, this is caused by irregularities in the DCOM security setup, issues with Windows search registry entry and/or incomplete/inappropriate initialization of the search service.

In any case, we have come up with certain Windows 10-applicable solutions, so be sure to try them all.

What can I do if enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed? This error usually occurs if Windows Search service isn’t properly configured. To fix it, set the Startup Type of Windows Search service to Automatic. If that doesn’t work, change the value of SetupCompletedSuccessfully DWORD in your registry.

Steps to fix user sessions enumeration issues

  1. Reset Windows Search startup
  2. Reconfigure Windows Search service in Registry Editor
  3. Add SYSTEM in the DCOM setup

1. Reset Windows Search startup

If Windows Search service isn’t properly configured, you might get Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed error. To resolve this issue, all you have to do is to change the startup type of your PC’s Windows search service, by following these steps:

  1. Open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows Key + R.
  2. In the pop up dialog box, type services.msc and press OK or the Enter button.servcies Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed
  3. In the Services window, locate the Windows Search option and then right-click on it.
  4. Select Properties from the list of options.windows search properties Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed
  5. In the Properties window, navigate to the Startup type drop-down and select Automatic in the drop-down menu.startup type automatic enumerating user sessions failed
  6. Press Apply > OK to finish the process.
  7. Close the window and reboot the computer.

Once this is done, check if the error is fixed. If the error remains unfixed, you can try the next solution.

Windows Search Indexer causing high CPU usage on your PC? Fix it now with this simple fix!

2. Reconfigure Windows Search service in Registry Editor

The Registry Editor allows you to change various settings on your computer. Hence, if you encounter the Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed error, you can reconfigure the Windows Search service in Registry Editor to resolve the issue. To do this, follow the step-by-step guidelines below:

  1. Open the Run box and enter regedit and click on OK.regedit enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed windows 10
  2. In the next window, navigate to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Search path.windows search registry editor enumerating user sessions
  3. Go to the right-hand pane right-click on SetupCompletedSuccessfully.
  4. Select Modify from the context menu.modify registry enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed
  5. Set the Value data to ‘0‘ (from ‘1‘).
  6. Click OK to apply changes.
  7. Restart the computer to finish up the process.

Once your PC’s restarted, check to see if the error persists.

Can’t access Registry Editor? Here’s how to fix that once and for all!

3. Add SYSTEM in the DCOM setup

If SYSTEM is not included in the DCOM security setup, you are bound to encounter Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed error at one point or another.

To fix this issue, do the following:

  1. Open Run dialog box and enter dcomcnfg and press the Enter.dcomcnfg enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed
  2. On the list of results, select Component Services.component services Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed
  3. In the next window, locate and double-click on Computers.computers enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed
  4. Right-click on My Computer and select Properties.component services properties enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed windows 10
  5. Under the My Computer Properties window, navigate to the COM Security tab.
  6. Select Edit limits under the Access Permission section.COM security enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed windows 10
  7. In the Access Permission window, click on Add > Advanced.advanced button enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed windows 10
  8. Click on the Find Now option to display search results.find now enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed windows 10
  9. On the displayed results, select SYSTEM.
  10. Check Allow the Local Access and Remote Access permissionsaccess permission enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed windows 10
  11. Click OK to apply changes.
  12. Exit program and restart the computer.

Check if this solution has fixed the error.

Note: Before running any of the solutions outlined in this tutorial, ensure you are logged into your PC as an administrator. This is to provide you unrestrained access to relevant programs like Registry Editor and Component Services among others.

There you go, these are a couple of solutions that might help you fix Enumerating user sessions to generate filter pools failed error. Be sure to try them all and let us know in the comments section if you found our solutions helpful.

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Windows Hello will soon be a FIDO2 Certified authenticator

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft’s Windows Hello will officially become a FIDO2-certified authenticator service in the next release of Windows 10. This means that going forward, all Windows 10 devices with Windows Hello biometics will be FIDO2-certified out of the box as long as long as they are running the Windows 10 May 2019 update or later.

For those unfamiliar, FIDO2 project is an effort between the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium with the purpose of creating a simpler yet strong authentication service for web applications. FIDO2-compliant services use cryptographic security that is “far superior to passwords” according to the organization, which it promises will further protect users from phishing and password theft.

Microsoft has been pushing Windows Hello and passwordless login of MSA accounts to greatly boost security and convenience for its consumers. Back in November, the company added support for FIDO2 security keys as a way to authenticate one’s Microsoft account. With Windows Hello now following the same standards, customers should be able to feel more at rest about the security of their private data.

Microsoft is also bringing passwordless login via Windows Hello to the Mozilla Firefox web browser starting in the Windows 10 May 2019 update. The company expects the same functionality to eventually make its way to Chromium-based web browsers, including the new Microsoft Edge that is still under development.

The tech giant also recommends those to use the Microsoft Authenticator app, which it says is “built on secure technology similar to Windows Hello.” While it’s expected to take time for Windows Hello and Microsoft Authenticator to totally replace passwords altogether, the company recommends developers to look into supporting FIDO2 authentication in their web applications as soon as today.

Microsoft Edge Insider Beta channel for Windows 10 leaks online

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Now that download links for the macOS version of Microsoft Edge have been shared by Microsoft watcher WalkingCat yesterday, it turns out that the Microsoft Edge Beta channel for Windows 10 is now available to download thanks to another leak. Twitter user ADeltaX shared the download links earlier today ahead of an official announcement for Microsoft, and we’ve been able to try it on one of our PCs.

Compared to the Dev and Canary channels, the Beta channel will be updated much less frequently, with new builds coming every six weeks. Microsoft says on the Microsoft Edge Insider website that it should be “the most stable Microsoft Edge preview experience,” though we did experience one crash after installing the beta version on a Surface Pro 4 today.

Microsoft had several sessions dedicated to its new Chromium-based Edge this week, and the web browser will soon get a new Collections feature, a Privacy dashboard, an Internet Explorer mode, as well as a Fluent Design update. It remains to be seen if the new Beta channel will officially launch before the end of Build 2019, but a public announcement is likely imminent.

6 best cloud encryption software for Windows PC users

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Are you looking for the best cloud encryption tool for your cloud storage? Look no further. Read this guide to learn what are the best cloud encryption solutions to use in 2019.

Cloud storage service is another form of cloud computing that has made it easier to keep files safe in the cloud accessible via the web.

Unlike redundant file storage techniques, files stored in the cloud can be accessed anywhere and at any time.

However, as the internet has evolved, cloud storage services have experienced security breaches over the years.

There are several news of individual or business cloud storage accounts hijacked or accessed by third-party such as hackers, government, media, etc.

Therefore, there is a need to encrypt your files and prevent unauthorized access to your files on the cloud.

This keeps your personal information and identity safe and secure.

The Windows Report team has compiled this list of the best cloud encryption for Windows PC users. This will help you choose the best solution for your needs.

Best cloud encryption tools

Boxcryptor

cloud encryption toolsBoxcryptor is a German-based cloud encryption software known for its freemium model and user-friendly interface. This cloud encryption tool takes control of your cloud storage account thereby reducing security breaches.

With Boxcryptor cloud encryption tool, users can make use of its end-to-end encryption protocol which encrypts their online activity from desktop to the cloud and vice versa.

Boxcryptor uses a combined encryption algorithm involving asymmetric RSA and symmetric AES encryption; this ensures that every file retains its unique random encrypting key which is generated during the formation process of the file.

The file key is then used to encrypt and decrypt the file contents leading to secured storage.

You can choose to test the free plan which allows access to a single cloud storage provider and gives encryption options. The major advantage of upgrading to paid options is simply more control over a larger number of accounts.

Also, the premium plans enables you to configure your cloud security and provides protection to sensitive personal and company data.

Meanwhile, Boxcryptor is compatible with over 30 different cloud storage services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, ownCloud, GMX, Egynyte, Cubby, Amazon S3, CloudMe, Nextcloud, and many more.

Download Boxcryptor

Cryptomator

cloud encryption toolsIf you want a free cloud encryption tool with advanced features that gives you without subscription or registration, Cryptomator is the best cloud encryption tool for you.

This cloud encryption tool is an open source technology which can be configured to your personal desire.

One of the major advantages of Cryptomator is its use of transparent encryption which means that users won’t notice any difference when working with files.

In addition, Cryptomator uses military-grade encryption protocol i.e. AES encryption to encrypt your cloud information.

Your cloud account is protected from brute force and other hacking attempts with its advanced security and regular security updates by Cryptomator.

You also get a virtual hard drive to access your files on your cloud storage as well as a vault where your encrypted files are kept.

In addition, this cloud encryption tool is lightweight and comes with responsive user interface unlike other cloud encryption tools.

The setup is easy as you only need to put username and password removing the need to create accounts, key management, or cypher configuration.

On the other hand, files are encrypted individually even when placed in groups or batches.

This is particularly useful due to the fact that when changes are made to a specific file, only the specific file is modified while still retaining its encryption state.

Download Cryptomator

Tresorit

cloud encryption toolsTresorit helps protect your files with end-end cloud encryption thereby preventing hackers, government and snoops from accessing your cloud storage.

With this cloud encryption tool, you can easily secure your files using the AES 256 end to end encryption protocol which uses randomly generated encryption keys to ensure file safety.

The keys generated by the software are available only to individual users as no copy is sent to Tresorit servers.

Therefore, your files stored on the cloud can only be accessed by you with your unique private decryption key.

In addition, this cloud encryption tool also comes with a password protected link feature whereby you can send files through an encrypted link which cannot be traced or decrypted by unauthorized users.

Passwords can also be placed on the encrypted file link to add an extra layer of security.

Moreover, Tresorit also offers cloud storage facilities giving users access for up to 1000GB free encrypted storage to keep files on their secure servers.

Tresorit is also cross-compatible among several platforms such as Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, and Linux; therefore, you can encrypt and decrypt your files across other Operating Systems as well.

Download Tresorit

pCloud Crypto

cloud encryption toolpCloud Crypto uses state-of-the-art TLS/SSL encryption to keep your information safe on your cloud storage.

This cloud encryption tool utilizes three different server locations to ensure that your information is kept secure at all time.

With pCloud Crypto, users get access to the secure 256-bit AES encryption for files alongside with the 4096-bit RSA encryption for private keys.

The cloud encryption tool also offers cloud storage services which let you store your files on its cloud platform.

Since the software uses highly encrypted protocols, your files on their cloud servers are encrypted using its end-to-end encryption and password protection.

pCloud Crypto may seem like a laid-back option unlike Tresorit or Boxcryptor.

It delivers where desired due to its dual cloud computing services i.e. cloud storage and cloud encryption.

pCloud offers a multi-layer protection, meaning that the encryption algorithms have more protection layers and keys.

Moreover, the user has the option to lock the personal data with a password, making it inaccessible to other users.

Download pCloud Crypto

SpiderOak

cloud encryption toolSpiderOak is a popular cloud encryption tool which offers consolidated secure cloud storage and cloud encryption services.

This cloud encryption tool encrypts files using its centralized account system in enabling Windows users to easily synchronize their cloud storage account across different platforms.

Also, the strict adoption of zero-logs policy prevents your personal information from being leaked as well as your files which are well-encrypted on the SpiderOak’s servers.

Still, in spite of restrictive compliance regulations, SpiderOak software allows the user to efficiently communicate and organize data.

This cloud encryption tool also provides additional protection against ransomware and data loss which is quite effective.

Users can access the cloud based storage without the need for VPN when accessing their cloud storage account.

Moreover, SpiderOak comes with data recovery toolset which help users recover deleted or lost data on the cloud storage.

Download SpiderOak

IDrive

idrive cloud encryption tools

If you’re looking for cloud storage that will keep your files encrypted and protected at all times, perhaps you might want to consider IDrive.

This service can work with almost any platform and you can sync your data using Windows, iOS, Mac or Android.

The service supports real-time synchronization, so you can rest assured that all your files will be regularly updated on the cloud.

This service also supports snapshots and versioning, so you can easily view and restore up to 30 previous versions of all your files.

IDrive also has a web-based console available, and you can use it to manage your backups and restores remotely with ease.

The service also has continuous data protection, so it can recognize modified segments of your files and back them up.

What separates this cloud storage service from the rest is its 256-bit AES encryption.

The encryption uses a user-defined key, and this key isn’t stored on the server, so only you will be able to decrypt your files.

Overall, IDrive offers solid features in terms of cloud storage, it’s fast and it works perfectly with almost any platform, and thanks to the 256-bit encryption, you can rest assured that only you can access your files.

The most basic plan is available for free and it offers 5GB of storage, but if you want more storage space and certain advanced features, you might want to consider getting a yearly plan.

Overview:

  • Free (with up to 5GB of storage)
  • Available on all major platforms
  • File backup and versioning up to 30 versions
  • 256-bit AES encryption

Have you used any of the cloud encryption tools we mentioned above? Feel free to share your experience with us.

RELATED GUIDES TO CHECK OUT:

Mojang releases Minecraft Classic on the web to celebrate the game’s 10th anniversary

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Minecraft Classic is now available to play for free on the web browser. The release comes just ten days before the iconic game’s tenth anniversary, so anyone wanting to get their hands on the very first version of the game can now do so, no purchased copy necessary.

The Classic game comes with the same set of just 32 blocks that were first introduced, and “all the original bugs” that came with one of the very the first releases. Of course, if you own the full Java version of the game, you can always still play it straight from the Minecraft Launcher.

The classic version of Minecraft was first made available for free on PC, Mac, and Linux platforms with Java installed. Since its release, the game has received hundreds of new blocks, items, and other features. The game also saw its way to smartphones and tablets in the form of Pocket Edition, and eventually consoles as well.

Microsoft later purchased the game’s development company, Mojang, for $2.5 billion, making it the first multi-billion dollar acquisition under Microsoft’s current CEO Satya Nadella’s lead. Since then, we’ve seen Minecraft released on the Windows 10 Microsoft Store, and cross-compatibility added to the Pocket, Console, and Windows 10 editions of the game, all of which have become what is now known as Bedrock Edition.

The Minecraft team also has more surprises for the game’s tenth anniversary, which officially lands on May 17th. In addition, we’re also expecting an AR release of the game, which was teased in a video towards the end of yesterday’s Build 2019 event.

Xbox 360’s From Dust and Costume Quest video games are now playable on Xbox One

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The Xbox 360 video games, From Dust and Costume Quest, are now playable on Xbox One consoles after gaining backwards compatibility functionality.

From Dust is classified as a god video game, a type of game that places the player in a god-type role and tasks them with manipulating the in-game environment and elements to achieve tasks such as helping a primitive tribe survive.

The game originally launched on the Xbox 360 in 2011 and received a fair bit of praise for its art direction and graphics.

Here’s the official game description for From Dust:

Discover a unique Modern God game where nature is the star: From Dust, the latest original concept by Eric Chahi, visionary creator of Another World.Behold the beauty of a primitive world pulsing with life and face the might of nature. Beware the danger of a world that is constantly changing under your command. Control the destiny of a tribe struggling to survive and help it recover its ancestors’ lost powers.Immerse yourself in a world as exotically beautiful as it is dangerous. A universe where Nature reclaims what is Hers; and you are your people’s only chance of survival.

Costume Quest launched on the Xbox 360 in 2010 is a family-friendly roleplaying game set around Halloween. Players are tasked with collecting items for their costume as they explore their neighbourhood and battle monsters.

Here’s the official game description for Costume Quest:

Rediscover Halloween in this imaginative RPG from Tim Schafer’s Double Fine Productions. Explore the monster-filled neighborhood of Auburn Pines, Autumn Haven Mall and Fall Valley Carnival. Collect magical costumes with super powers, unique weapons and special items as you hunt down quests. Level-up your heroic warrior and battle the evil overlords in this epic adventure to save Halloween!

Have you been waiting for From Dust or Costume Quest to come to the Xbox One? Let us know which one you’ll play first in the comments below and then follow us on Pinterest for more Xbox gaming content.

The app was not found in the store. ?
Go to store
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The app was not found in the store. ?
Go to store
br74rlmh966k+windowsstore”>Google websearch

Here’s how to boot Windows XP on your Nintendo Switch

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

A lot of people tried running Linux and Android on their Nintendo Switch in the past few years. It has been a year now that a YouTube user demonstrated Windows XP booting on Nintendo Switch. As a result, Windows XP fans tried to run the OS on their devices as well.

Redditor Alfonso Dingo Torres Jauregui, made a recent attempt that came under the highlights. He explained how his attempt turned out to be a successful one.

He basically installed L4T Linux and used QEMU to run Windows XP on Nintendo Switch. The user also says that the total installation and setup process took around 6 hours.Handheld Mode

Enjoy Pinball 3D at a full speed

Jauregui used QEMU to run Windows XP on a virtual machine. Virtualization is a process where an OS runs on top of another one.

You may be thinking about the performance of the system. The user claims that anyone can enjoy Pinball 3D “at a full speed”.

Play Pinball 3D

When talking about the specifications he says,

I have the Cinnamon DE running and have a 2GB Swap dime in order to keep things nice and smooth.

He clearly said that if you want to replicate the procedure on your Nintendo Switch you should first install QEMU and allocate a 10 GB hard disk space.

This recent experiment proves that Nintendo Switch is a lot more than a simple gaming console. Jauregui says that his modified version of the Switch is working perfectly well until now.

Some Reddit users are excited to play Pinball 3D on their console devices. Furthermore, they also demanded Jauregui to try some more games. 

It looks like users are interested in running more such experiments. They wonder if joycons works as inputs within Windows XP. 

Yeah but can the XP system run Android in a VM with another nested VM inside it running Ubuntu that run Yuzu emulator on top of it?

Comment down below if you are one of those who tried out Windows XP on their Nintendo Switch.

RELATED ARTICLES YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT:

Unable to automatically step into the server: Get the best fixes here

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

When trying to debug WCF (Windows Communication Foundation) service, you may encounter different types of error. One such error is Unable to automatically step into the server.

The full error reads Unable to automatically step into the server.  The remote procedure could not be debugged. This usually indicates that debugging has not been enabled on the server.

If you are trying to troubleshoot this error on your server, here are some valuable suggestions.

How do I fix ‘Unable to automatically step into the server’ errors?

  1. Add a Web.Config file to the Web Service
  2. Check for .NET Framework Compatibility
  3. Repair Visual Studio Installation
  4. Run Visual Studio with Administrative Privilege
  5. Troubleshoot Compatibility for Devenv.exe

1. Add a Web.Config file to the Web Service

While using Microsoft Visual Studio, this issue may occur due to a missing Web.Config file. Visual Studio does not create a Web.Config file automatically while creating a Web Application or Web Service. And when you try to debug the Web service, you may end up with this error.

Web-config file add visual studio

To fix the issue, you need to add a Web.Config file to the Web service. Here is how to do it.

You need to create a Web.Config file and add <compilation debug=”true”> line between the <system.web> section.

If you already have a Web.Config file, you need to add the <compilation debug=”true”> line and save the file.

2. Check for .NET Framework Compatibility

microsoft dotnet framework

If you have built the service project using a different version of .NET Framework than your client, it causes compatibility issues resulting in a server error.

To fix this make sure that you and your client projects are on the same .NET Framework. That is if you have built your project using Framework 4.5 and your client’s project was on .NET Framework 4.0 then you may need to change the project properties of service project to have .NET Framework 4.0.

3. Repair Visual Studio Installation

To enable debugging it is important that you install a version of ASP.NET framework before installing Visual Studio on your system. If you have installed Visual Studio first and then decided to install ASP.NET, you may see the “Unable to automatically step into the server” error.

You can fix this issue by repairing the Visual Studio installation from the Control Panel. Here is how to do it.

Steps for Visual Studio 2010 and Earlier

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type “control” and hit enter.
  3. In the Control Panel, click on Programs > Programs and Features.
  4. Located and select the Visual Studio program.
  5. On the top, click on the Repair/Change option and follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. After the repair is complete, reboot the system and check for any improvements.

Visual Studio 2019

If you have the latest version of Visual Studio installed, follow these steps instead.

  1. Find Visual Studio Installer by clicking on Start > Visual Studio Installer (search in the letter V).
    visual-studio-installer
  2. Alternatively, you can also find the installer by visiting the following path:
  3. C:Program Files (x86)Microsoft Visual StudioInstallervs_installer.exe
  4. Run the Visual Studio Installer, and it will open the launcher.
  5. Under the installed tab, click on the More button and select the Repair option.
    Visual Studio Installer 2019 - Repair
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions (if any) and wait for the installer to Repair the Visual Studio framework.

Alternatively, if repairing the Visual Studio client doesn’t work, you can try to reinstall the Visual Studio application as well.

4. Run Visual Studio with Administrative Privilege

visual studio

If the issue persists, you can try to run the Visual Studio launcher with the administrative privileges. Running the Visual Studio with the administrative access fixes any issues that occur due to inadequate permission.

  1. Click on Start, type Visual Studio.
  2. Right-click on your version of Visual Studio and select Run as Administrator.

5. Troubleshoot Compatibility for Devenv.exe

visual studio icon

While we have discussed the compatibility issues earlier, you can try to fix any compatibility issue by using the built-in compatibility troubleshooter in Windows. Devenv.exe is a software component of Microsoft Visual Studio. Try to run the compatibility troubleshooter for it and see if that resolves the error.

  1. Open “File Explorer” and navigate to the following location:
  2. C:Program Files Microsoft Visual Studio version Common IDE
  3. Right-click on devenv.exe and select “Troubleshoot Compatibility”.

What to do if USB device blocks Windows 10 v1903 install

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Microsoft made it clear it would block upgrades to the Windows 10 May 2019 Update if external media such as a USB device or SD card is attached to the computer.

This happens because the OS may  assign the wrong letters to your SD cards or USB devices.

Microsoft says that Windows 10 users who try to install the update may experience the following error:

This PC can’t be upgraded to Windows 10. Your PC has hardware that isn’t ready for this version of Windows 10. No action is needed. Windows Update will offer this version of Windows 10 automatically once the issue has been resolved.

How to fix Windows 10 May 2019 Update install errors

Here is a quick solution that you can use to unblock the Windows 10 May Update. You should unplug all external media attached to your device such as SD cards or USB devices.

The solution is pretty simple but you should have physical access to the computer.

However, you may also experience the same issue on a remote computer but there is a workaround to resolve it as well.

Make sure that the USB device is not detectable on the system. Only then can you begin the installation process of the Windows 10 May 2019 Update.

You need to follow the complete procedure mentioned below.

  1. Click the Start menu and navigate to the search bar and type Device Manager. Alternatively, you can also press Windows key + X, and click Device Manager from the list of options.
  2. At this step, you need to look for the devices that will be disabled. You can find it under Universal Serial Bus controllers section.
  3. Now when you have found your desired device, Right-click on the device and click Disable device.disable USB devices windows 10
  4. It will display a warning: Disabling this device will cause it to stop functioning. Do you really want to disable it?
  5. Confirm your choice.

Now you can install Windows 10 May 2019 Update again and this time the process should complete without any issues.

Additionally, you can enable your devices through the Device Manager. Right-click your device and click Enable Device.

RELATED ARTICLES YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT:

Microsoft Photos is getting quicker access to image cropping, automatic tags, and custom file info

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft Photos is receiving some changes to improve the image editing experience in Windows 10. Most notably, the app will feature quicker access to image cropping by including the icon on the top navigation bar immediately upon opening an image (via MSPoweruser).

For those who are particular about their image details, Microsoft Photos will also allow users to edit information such as such as the capture date and file name straight from the menu accessible by right clicking an image. Additionally, anyone can also choose to have People tags automatically applied to photos though the use of facial recognition technology, with the option being initially available from the privacy screen when the updated app is first launched.

Microsoft is releasing the app to Insiders first to test and help sort out potential bugs, but it shouldn’t be long before everyone gets it. If you want to see these changes now, you can join the Preview program straight from the settings within the Photos app.

Microsoft’s Xbox One All-Digital Edition available now, includes three games for $249

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft has released the Xbox One S All-Digital edition today, so anyone that has had their mind set on it can go ahead and order it right now. It’s available for $249 on the Microsoft Store and online, as well Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart, and other retailers worldwide.

https://twitter.com/Xbox/status/1125792531797557248

Microsoft is pitching this as a cheaper alternative to the Xbox One S that comes with the disk drive, with a starting price of $249 and three games included—Minecraft, Forza Horizon 3, and Sea of Thieves. Although Microsoft promises to keep its $50 price difference on its systems online and at its physical stores, it’s worth mentioning that the console with the disk reader can still be purchased for slightly over $200 from third-party sellers on Amazon.

Still, the Xbox One S All-Digital console could serve as an inexpensive way to get into gaming for those who aren’t already invested in physical games and movies. If you’re new, we recommend getting a Game Pass membership which will give you access to over a hundred games right off the bat for just $9.99 per month. New subscribers get three months for just $1, which is an ample amount of time to decide whether to keep it.

Windows 10 to get a custom-built Linux kernel later this year

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft is bringing the full Linux kernel to the Windows 10 operating system, which will replace the emulation architecture that was a part of the initial release of the Windows Subsystem for Linux, or WSL for short. Taking advantage of the full kernel, WSL2 will bring “up to 20x faster” performance for Linux apps, and full system call compatibility to allow many apps that were previously incompatible to run without issues.

Docker is an example of an app that can take advantage of the full Linux kernel.

Microsoft is initially starting out with version 4.19 of the Linux kernel, which is the most recent long-term release of the system. The company is also promising to keep the kernel updated to the latest long-term release so that any developer “always has the latest Linux goodness,” according to Microsoft’s program manager Jack Hammons.

Of course, while the full kernel is available, none of the userspace binaries are included by default. Instead, a user must select one through the installation of their preferred Linux distro on the Microsoft Store, or by creating their own custom package. In addition, thanks to its open source nature, developers will also be able to create their own WSL kernels, with instructions being made available soon on GitHub.

The company hasn’t verified when full kernel will be readily available in Windows 10, but we could see it as soon as the next major release of the opening system codenamed 19H2, which is due for later this year. To make the overall experience even smoother, Microsoft is also introducing a new tab-based Windows Terminal that will allow developers to access Windows Subsystem for Linux, PowerShell, and Cmd from a single command line interface.

Descenders joins Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass video game library

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The downhill freeriding video game, Descenders, is now available to play in full for all Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

The game is streamlined yet feature-packed concept tasks the player with navigating downhill courses, avoiding obstacles, and outlasting the opponents to rank higher in the leaderboards. All courses are procedurally generated before each playthrough so there’s no way to learn a track. The emphasis is on reaction times and speed.

Here’s the official feature list:

  • Procedurally generated worlds: Take on different jumps, slopes and hillbombs every time you play
  • Freestyle bike controls: Control every subtle movement of your rider, with an in-depth physics system made for slick whips and scrubs
  • Risk vs reward: Push your rider for massive scores and combos — but bail too many times and you might lose it all
  • Build your Rep: A fully-featured online Rep system lets you show off your worth, and earn new bikes and threads
  • Become the next Descender: Can you survive the game in a single run, and reach the ranks of the legendary Descenders?
  • Wear your team’s colors and apparel with pride, and receive exclusive team gear
  • Your Rep points go towards your team’s total Rep, and exclusive prizes are awarded to the top team
  • Gain access to your team’s exclusive channel on the Descenders Discord server

Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft’s monthly subscription service that gives members full access to around 100 video games on Xbox One consoles.

Other games coming to Xbox Game Pass this month include Surviving Mars, Tacoma, Black Desert, For The King, The Surge, and Lego Batman 3.

Are you an Xbox Game Pass subscriber and will you play Descenders? Let us know why or why not in the comments below and then follow us on Pinterest for more Xbox gaming content.

Descenders
Descenders
Download
QR-Code

Descenders
Developer:
No More Robots
Price:
Free

Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PS4 Fortnite players can no longer merge their accounts

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Back in February, Epic Games launched an official method for merging Fortnite accounts so that players with game saves on multiple platforms could bring all of the items and in-game currency under one username.

As of yesterday, this functionality has been completely discontinued, though, so those that were unable to merge their accounts before the deadline, or had completely forgotten to do so, will now have to choose which of their accounts to abandon and which to play under.

The account merging feature was created in response to PlayStation 4 players who were forced to create new Fortnite accounts when playing the popular game on other platforms due to Sony’s hard stance against crossplay and cross saves with rival consoles. When cross-platform functionality was eventually enabled on the PS4, Fortnite players could then use the one Fortnite account and a need for bringing all of their purchases and unlocked items under one system was needed.

Fortnite is currently one of the most-popular video games in the world and is playable on Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PS4 consoles in addition to Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Did you manage to merge your Fortnite accounts in time or were you caught out? Share your experience with the community in the comments below and then follow us on Pinterest for more Xbox gaming content.

Fortnite
Fortnite
Download
QR-Code

Fortnite
Developer:
Epic Games Inc.
Price:
Free

How to fix NSIS error when installing AMD driver

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

NSIS (Nullsoft Scriptable Install System) Error usually occurs when the user tries to install a driver on their Windows system. The error is caused when the user tries to install a corrupt or incomplete application that fails to initiate the installer.

The Error reads NSIS error; installer integrity check has failed. Common causes include incomplete download and damaged media and clicking on OK closes the launcher. If you are facing this error as well, here are a couple of troubleshooting tips you can try to fix the error.

How do I fix Nullsoft Scriptable Install System error on AMD driver

  1. Move the Installer to a Different Folder
  2. Rename the Installer
  3. Run the Installer from the Command Prompt
  4. Download the Installer from Another Source
  5. Scan your Computer for Malware
  6. Install Pending Windows Updates
  7. Run System File Checker

1. Move the Installer to a Different Folder

As strange it may sound, moving the installer to a different folder has worked for many users. Folder-related errors are not uncommon, so it should not be surprising.

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the location where the installer is located.
  2. Right-click on the Installer and select Copy.
    Rename Folder Windows 10
  3. Create a new folder containing only English letter and move the installer to the new folder.
  4. Run the Installer from the new folder and check if that resolves the error.

2. Rename the Installer

The simplest working fix for the NSIS error is to rename the installer. Users have reported that renaming the installer has allowed the installation to complete successfully.

  1. Open, File Explorer and navigate the directory where the NSIS installer is located.
  2. Right-click on the Installer and select the Rename option.
    Rename AMD Installer
  3. Enter a single word name for the installer.
  4. Try to rerun the installer and check for any improvements.

3. Run the Installer from the Command Prompt

You can install the NSIS installer using the Command Prompt. Windows requires all the executable files to pass the corruption test. However, using the NCRC command, you can skip this test and proceed with the installation without any error. Here is how to do it.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type “cmd” and hit enter. It will open the Command Prompt.
  3. Open File Explorer and navigate to the directory where the NSIS installer is located.
  4. Drag and drop the installer onto the Command Prompt. Doing so will add the installer path in the Command Prompt.
    NCRC - AMD NSIS Installer
  5. Press the Space key and type /NCRC. Hit enter to execute the file.
  6. This should open the NSIS installer installation window. Proceed with the installation.

4. Download the Installer from Another Source

If the installer is corrupted at the source end then no matter how many times you download the file, it will show NSIS error. In this case, you need to download the installer from other sources or find an updated version of the driver.

The best way to download any installer is by the official source. In this case, visit AMD’s website and download the latest driver. If not, wait for developers to release a new version with the bug fix.

5. Scan your Computer for Malware

If your computer is infected with malware or virus, it may also affect other programs and installers resulting in corruption or malfunction. Some adware is known to cause such errors where the user is prevented from installing any new driver or software on their system. We recommend scanning your PC for malware with dedicated anti-malware software for a threat-free PC.

6. Install Pending Windows Updates

If you have downloaded the latest version of the NSIS driver and your Windows OS does not have the latest build installed, it may cause compatibility issues.

To fix this, check if any updates are pending to be installed for Windows.

  1. Click on Start and select Settings.
  2. Open Update and Security.
  3. Click on Windows Update and click on Check for Updates.
    Windows Update Download - Pending - Ready to Download
  4. Windows will check for updates and notify if updates are ready to download. Click on the Download button to download and install the updates.

7. Run System File Checker

Windows OS comes with a built-in System File Checker. It is a command line-based tool that allows you to scan the system for corrupt or missing system files and replace it with new files.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type cmd and hit enter.
    Sfc scannow
  3. In the Command Prompt, type the following command and hit enter.
    Sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the System File Checker to complete the scan and fix any problems.

Reboot the system and check for any improvements.

How to fix frequent Mortal Kombat 11 issues on Xbox

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Choose your destiny! The newest installment of the Mortal Kombat series is out. Brought to us by NetherRealm Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive.

Test your skills out on the platform of your choice, warrior, the game is available on Microsoft Windows, Xbox One and other platforms.

As we all know, no game launch is truly without some hiccups. And the newest installment from the Mortal Kombat series makes no exception, with certain issues related to connectivity, game progression and save games. But there are instances of graphical and audio bugs occurring.

But fear not, we’ve got a list of fixes that will help you to fix some of the most frequent Mortal Kombat 11 game bugs on the Xbox One.

How can I fix Mortal Kombat 11 issues?

  1. Game freezes
  2. Connectivity issues
  3. Update won’t install
  4. Controller won’t work
  5. Reset your Xbox
  6. Reinstall your game

1. Fix game freezes

This nifty solution helps out in the event the game the game freezes up, or it fails to launch too. In order to do this, follow these steps:

  1. Firstly, Press your Xbox button on the controller to open up the guide.
  2. Now press the Menu button on the controller and quit the game.
  3. You can now restart your game.

2. Connectivity fix

You should check if either your console or network adapter is running into issues or not. In order to fix your connection, follow these steps:

To test your network connection:

  1. Press your Xbox button to open up the guide.
  2. Now you’re going to select System, and then Settings.
  3. Next, select Network, and Network settings.
  4. Select Test network connection.test network connection xbox one

Check data usage:

  1. Open the Settings menu on your Xbox One.
  2. Go to the Network
  3. Open Network settings.
  4. Now select Bandwidth usage on right side of the screen.

To fix your connection:

  1. Firstly, unplug your Ethernet cable, if one is connected at the moment.
  2. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One console.
  3. Go to the Network
  4. Now select Network settings.
  5. Then select Set up wireless network.
  6. Choose your wireless network from the list of available networks.
  7. Don’t forget to enter your network password.
  8. Click Continue to finish the setup process.

3. Fix update issues

Sometimes you might facing issues with outdated patches on your console or game. In order to solve this issue, follow these steps:

  1. Firstly, press the Xbox button to open up the guide.
  2. Now select System and go to Settings.
  3. Select System and now press Updates & downloads.
  4. Select Keep my console up to date for console and Keep my games and apps up to date for Mortal Kombat 11.

4. Controller fix

If you’re running across controller problems, this solution can help you out. Just follow these steps:

  1. Turn on your Xbox One.
  2. Next, turn on your controller by pressing the Xbox button.
  3. Press and release the Connect button on your console.
  4. Press and hold the Connect button on your controller.
  5. The Xbox button should flash a couple of times, but your connection should be stable afterwards.

5. Reset your Xbox

In order to perform this action, simply press and hold the power button for more than 10 seconds, until your Xbox One is on. Next, you’re gonna unplug everything from the console, wait for 10 seconds or more till you plug everything back in. Or alternatively, you can follow these steps:

  1. From your Menu, go to System.
  2. Now select Settings, and select Console Info.
  3. Next, you’re going to select Reset Your Console.Console info & updates xbox one
  4. Select one of the three options and proceed.
  5. This should restore your default settings.

6. Reinstall Mortal Kombat 11

If everything else failed, and you’re still running into problems, the best solution is to uninstall and reinstall your game. In order to do this, follow these steps:

  1. From the Home menu and select My Games and Apps.
  2. Select the Games
  3. Select Mortal Kombat 11 and press the Menu button on your controller.
  4. Choose Manage Game, and select
  5. Once this is completed, reinsert your game disk into your Xbox, and reinstall your game.

QUICK TIP FOR SMOOTH MORTAL KOMBAT GAMING SESSIONS ON XBOX

Always remember to check whether or not the Xbox Live service is working, then proceed with the steps at hand.

We hope that these solutions were of help to you, and you’re able to complete your journey in Mortal Kombat 11.

In the meantime, let us know in the comment section down below on what other issues have you faced while playing the game on your Xbox One.

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Download Tencent Gaming Buddy for Windows

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

PUBG is still one of the most popular games on the planet. Millions of players compete daily in this tough environment. They all have the same purpose in mind: to be the last man standing.

The mobile version of the game is very addictive but it also brings some disadvantages due to hardware and software limitations.

If you want to enjoy a smooth PUBG Mobile gaming experience, we suggest you download Tencent Gaming Buddy emulator on your Windows PC. 

In this manner, you can emulate PUBG Mobile on the screen of your computer.

Tencent developed this emulator specially for PUBG Mobile. 

The controls are fully optimized and properly mapped on your keypad and mouse. Various layout are available to choose from.

How do I install Tencent Gaming Buddy PUBG Mobile emulator on PC?

The steps to follow are very simple and intuitive:

  1. Follow the download link above.
  2. Hit the install button to download and install the emulator.Tencent Gaming Buddy PUBG Mobile emulator
  3. Now, hit the Start button .
  4. The download process continues with the game engine.
  5. After a couple of minutes, the emulator will download PUBG Mobile on your PC.
  6. Once the process is finished, you can hit the Play button.

Enjoy the game!

Over to you now: How has your Tencent Gaming Buddy PUBG Mobile been so far? Let us know in the comments below.

Office 365 lets you better control what data you share with Microsoft

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

After the GDPR was officially adopted, Microsoft promised to make the necessary changes to the way it collects data from users. The company is now introducing two new categories (Required and Optional) to the data collected from Office 365 Enterprise users.

Microsoft faced criticism for GDPR violations on multiple occasions. These violations were mostly related to how Office apps collected user data and shared with their parent company.

Microsoft didn’t bother about users’ privacy concerns during the process. Neither had they the option to disable the data collection process itself.

Office 365 becomes GDPR compliant

Microsoft says that these changes are made to address the concerns of European clients. The company is of the view that the “Required data” will be the one that is required to ensure your account’s security or to make your products work.

The big M plans to roll out both these features in the next few months for Office 365 Pro Plus and Windows 10 users. Moreover, products like Dynamics 365 and Xbox will get additional changes and features in the next few months.

The company is planning to list down details regarding these changes into a report. The published report will include details when the company steps back from collecting specific user data.

Microsoft claims it does not collect details of your personal files, your email or other personal data. IT administrators will now have the option to enable or disable privacy controls for other users on the same Office 365 account.

In case you want to be secure while surfing the internet, you will need to get a full-dedicated tool to secure your network.  Install now Cyberghost VPN and secure yourself. It protects your PC from attacks while browsing, masks your IP address and blocks all unwanted access.

Data breach scandals on the rise

Users were not concerned about data privacy a few years ago. The ever growing number of data breach scandals affecting major tech companies pushed users to focus more on their privacy and how companies user their data.

Microsoft is now addressing some of users’ concerns. The recent changes to Microsoft’s data collection policy are really impressive. Now it’s up to Microsoft to put in the efforts necessary to keep its promises.

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What is RtHDVCpl.exe And Should You Remove it?

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Many users encountered unknown RtHDVCpl.exe file in the list of running processes, and they are rightfully concerned.

Unknown exe files should make every user suspicious, and many users reported that exe files aren’t opening on their PC.

So join us while we take a closer look at this file and see what it does and whether should you remove it from your PC.

What is process RtHDVCpl?

RtHDVCp means Realtek High Definition Volume Control Panel. The real RtHDVCpl.exe file is associated with Realtek High Definition Audio Driver, and it does the following:

  • Works as an interface between your OS and Realtek sound card.
  • Allows you to configure volume settings.

Is RtHDVCpl.exe malware?

No, this process isn’t malware, but if you want to make sure, do the following:

Is RtHDVCpl.exe needed?

This software isn’t needed, but you might want to keep it for the following reasons:

  • You configure your sound settings using Realtek software.
  • There might be some potential issues with Realtek software if you delete it.

If, by some chance, this file is affected by malware, you should consider removing it.

How can I remove RtHDVCpl from startup?

Use Task Manager

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Navigate to the Startup tab.
     
  3. Locate this file, right-click it, and choose Disable.

After doing that, the software will be disabled, and it won’t start with your PC anymore. Disabling is usually a better option since you won’t get any messages regarding missing files.

As you can see, the Realtek audio HDA rthdvcpl.exe file is harmless, so you shouldn’t remove it. If it’s causing you any problems, you might want to consider disabling it instead.

To learn more about this software and whether you need it on your PC, read our guide on Realtek HD Audio Manager.

Have you ever encountered this file before? Let us know in the comments below.

Imperator: Rome may trigger all these bugs on your PC

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

The grand strategy wargame formula is back in the mix, this time with Imperator: Rome. Brought to us by Paradox Interactive, the game serves as a sequel to the well-known Europa Universalis: Rome game.

In terms of timeline, the action is set between the foundation of the Roman Empire, till onset of the Diadochi Wars. The map is set in the Iberian peninsula, featuring more than 7000 cities, with this many terrain to go by, all nations present in the game are playable.

As we’re more and more familiar, no game launch can be deemed flawless. And Imperator:Rome is no exception to this. With unrest amonst the gaming legionaries on Steam threads, pointing out to game crashes, black screens, save issues, map problems and the game not synch-ing properly with Steam.

With all this being said and done, we’ve compiled a list of common bugs reported by users.

Common Imperator: Rome issues:

  1. Black screen
  2. Savegame problems
  3. Connection issues
  4. Game crashes
  5. Game freezing up
  6. Multiplayer problems
  7. No sound
  8. Endless validation

1. Black screen

Sometimes when you’re launching the game, the only thing you’ll see is a black screen.

I’m having an issue that whenever i launch this game, i get a black screen, cursor show that it’s loading, but if you click on it, it goes white, then pop up the not responding with the option to close or wait for it to respond.

2. Savegame problems

Numerous players have reported having troubled with saving their progress, requiring that they start a new game. With problems carrying over when they load a previously saved game.

So I have a problem, my savegame got somehow corrupted. When I want to load and continue playing (unpause) the game freezes. It doesn’t work with other savegasmes also

3. Connection issues

There have been reports of legionaries facing connectivity problems with their accounts. Mostly being related to their Steam accounts not synch-ing with their game.

I can login inside the game…but when I try to bind the account to Steam, I get a POP_error

4. Game crashing

Some people have experienced the game crashing at various points in the game, with no particular pattern.

The game keeps crashing at random intervals and I get a CrashReporter.exe – Application Error that says: The Application was unableto start correctly (0x000007b). The game usually crashes after a few minutes. Any known fixes for this?

5. Game freezing up

There are instances of players who weren’t able to play due to it freezing up, the occurrence taking place when they start playing the actual game.

My computers specs are perfectly fine and the game loads great all the way until I start to actually play. Within a couple of minutes of gameplay the entire thing just freezes. The audio is still in tact and makes noises when I hover the cursor over objects in the game, however visually everything just freezes

6. Multiplayer problems

Forming an alliance with a friend is part of the great aspects of the game. But when this isn’t possible, we’re bound to exile.

Almost every time when I want to load a MP game that i play with a friend, i get the message that the alliance is broken with him (When i’m in the server lobby!!!!). When i start the game i get the message a second time and the alliance is gone. I can form the alliance directly after that.

7. No sound

We all love to immerse ourselves in the world pictured in Imperator, but some users have reported the game having no sound whatsoever.

There is no sound at all. That can’t be right. Is it? Even in Settings, you can select ‘Audio’, but there is nothing in that selection. Any ideas??

8. Endless validation

It’s all fun and games when you get the game in your Steam library, but when the game is stuck in an andless validation loop, there’s no laughing matter here.

Downloaded the game late last night, opened it up and set all the settings to max graphics. Opened it this morning and said exe was invalid. I then validated the game, it said 1 file had issues and after validating would stop and then begin to validate again. It has been doing this for over 5 minutes; each loop is about 30 seconds.

How do you like the game so far? Do you rule your empire with iron fist or do you run vouch for peace? Let us know in the comment section down below.

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FIX: Windows 10 is not giving focus to gamebar

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Windows 10 users encounter Game bar focus issues quite frequently. More specifically, they can’t select the menu options using both an Xbox controller and mouse.

Here’s a guide on how to fix this Game bar issue in Windows 10.

What to do if Windows 10 is not giving focus to gamebar

  1. Make sure Game bar is granted permission to work
  2. Have your Xbox app up to date
  3. Terminate Game Bar
  4. Try turning Game Bar off and on
  5. Reinstall the Xbox app
  6. Disable Gamebar Presence Writer

1. Make sure Game bar is granted permission to work

Verifying Game Bar’s activity permission status should be the first thing you should check. To do so, follow these steps:

  • Press the Start button > open Settings
  • Click Gaming > make sure to have Record game clips, screenshots, and broadcast using Game Bar set to On.Record game clips using Game Bar

2. Have your Xbox app up to date

Having the latest version of the Xbox app minimizes the potential of errors occurring.

To find the latest updates you, follow the next steps:

  • Press the Start button > type microsoft store in the search box and open Microsoft Store
  • Press the three dots on the right side of the store > click Downloads and updates > Get updatesupdate microsoft store app
  • Restart the app and try to see if Game Bar works

3. Terminate Game Bar

Another solution that reportedly worked for some users involves terminating the Game Bar process and rebooting the PC. To complete this task, you need to:

  • Press the Start button > open Settings 
  • Click on Apps > Apps & Featuresapps & features windows 10
  • Find Game Bar > click Advanced Options > press Terminate
  • Restart your computer and see if it works

4. Try turning Game Bar off and on

Disabling and enabling Game Barback is another solution worth trying. To enable/disable it follow these steps:

  • Press Start button > open Settings
  • Click Game Bar > turn off
  • Restart your PC
  • Go back to the PC settings > Game Bar > turn on

5. Reinstall the Xbox app

Game Bar is integrated into the Xbox app, so try uninstalling the Xbox app first.

Reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store, then check to see if the issue has been solved.

6. Disable Gamebar Presence Writer

The Gamebar Presence Writer is a process that enables in-game video recording. Stopping this process proved to fix the issue from some users.

To disable Gamebar Presence Writer you need to follow these steps:

  • Open the Xbox app > click the Settings icon
  • Click Game DVR > select to turn off Record game clips and screenshots using Game DVR

These were the best solutions we could find for fixing the Game Bar lack of focus issue. If you have any other fixes for this issue, feel free to list them in the comment section below.