First look at Rise of the Tomb Raider on Xbox One X vs PS4 Pro

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Since announcing the Xbox One X, Microsoft has managed to create a list of over 100 gaming titles that will receive an update to make them enhanced for the Xbox One X, delivering 4K graphics on its next gaming console.

One of those titles is Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Digital Foundry has been looking at the graphics difference for the game between the Xbox One X and Sony’s PS4 Pro.

Digital Foundry notes that, while both run in 4K, with the PS4 Pro version using checker boarding as opposed to native 4K, the game has “increased image quality and refinement” on the Xbox One X. While the differences can sometimes be difficult to notice during motion, there’s quite an amount of more detail in the Xbox One X version, too.

What do you think to the differences? Let us know in the comments below!

How to customize Microsoft Edge’s new tab page to your preference

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

By default, opening a new tab on Microsoft’s web browser Edge, will display a list of your top websites plus news, weather, sports, finances, and even some advertisements. While some users enjoy the wealth of information provide by Edge’s new tab, others prefer a minimalist new tab. If you are the type of person who likes clean pages, then you will find the information below on how to customize Edge new tab page to be insightful.

While the two other most popular web browsers, Firefox and Chrome, have a wide variety of different customization options, Edge’s options are fairly limited. For instance, for Chrome and Firefox, users have the option to customize the background picture of a new tab. However, Microsoft Edge only allows user to change the type of content that is displayed on your new tab. However, Edge is still fairly new and will most likely see changes in the near future.

Customize Edge’s new tab page

Lets get started

In order to open the options for Edge’s new tab, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Access Microsoft Edge from the Start menu.

Step 2: Open a new tab on Edge by either clicking on the plus icon on the top of your browser window or by pressing Ctrl + T together on your keyboard.

Step 3: The first thing you see after creating a new tab is the option to choose the country and language you wish your news feed to be in.

Step 4: After you have selected the desired language you will need to click on the small gear icon on the far right, top side of the browser. This gear icon will allow you to customize Edge new tab page.

Step 5: Now you can customize the information cards, language, and other display settings for Microsoft’s Edge new tab. Below, you will find more information about each of these options.

Page Display Settings

You have three options in this section: Top sites and my feed, Top sites, and A blank page. The ‘Top sites and my feed’ option is the default option, which is quite cluttered with tiles and links. On the other hand, choosing the ‘Top sites’ option will take away both the Information Cards and the news on the new tab page.

Commonly visited and top websites will be the only thing you see on your new tab page if you select this option. The final option ‘A blank page’, as the name suggests, gives you a completely blank page. You will of course still have the option to return to the default configurations.

Information Cards

In short, the large tiles located on the right side of your new tab page are Information Cards. Currently, you only have the option of turning on or off three of these tiles: Sports, Money, and Weather. Turn all of these options off if your desire a cleaner page. However, if you decide to leave them on, they can be quite useful and convenient.

Select language and content

This option not only allows you to select the language of your browser, but it also changes the news you get. In other words, you can get local news from any country around the world simply by changing the country. Individuals interested in local news from different countries will find this feature to be neat.

Furthermore, once you select a country, you will have the option to choose your favorite topics. Doing this will affect what you see on your feed.

All in all, while Microsoft Edge is not as flexible as other browser titans such as Firefox and Chrome, it certainly earns its place as one of the top browsers on the market. Hopefully the information on how to customize Edge new tab page will make your browsing experience more pleasurable.

What do you think should be added to the option page of Microsoft Edge?

RELATED STORIES YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT:

Skype.com gains a code editor built for technical and coding interviews

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft is testing a new business-oriented feature on the web interface of Skype at Skype.com. Now in preview, users are able to start interview calls, whereby those in the call can have make use of a real-time code editor with syntax highlighting for multiple languages.

To start an interview call, one simply heads to the Interviews on Skype page and click “Start interview”, then invite someone to the call and begin the interview – all with a real-time code editor.

As it’s a feature in Skype.com, there’s no need to sign up or download an app or additional software. It currently supports Microsoft Edge and Chrome version 32 or higher.

In a post on the Skype blog announcing the new feature, the Skype team said:

This new preview feature allows you to have a video call on top of a code editor that runs in your Microsoft Edge or Chrome browser (version 32 or above). It only works for browsers set to English. You just need Skype.com—no other apps to download. The built-in code editor supports 7 popular programming languages: C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Python, and Ruby. We have also included built-in syntax highlighting to help prevent syntactic mistakes during an interview.

What do you think to this new feature that’s in preview?

Xbox Insiders can now purchase peripherals from the Store on the Xbox One console

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Those of us who are part of the Xbox Preview Program can now purchase additional Xbox One peripherals from the comfort of their console, adding to the convenience of not having to open up a webpage or go to an alternative store to purchase accessories.

Those in the Alpha and Beta rings now have access to this new functionality via the Xbox Insider Hub, as tweeted by Brad Rossetti:

This new functionality for the Xbox Store is working towards bringing all Xbox-related content into the console, so that when purchasing accessories, it can be done via the console, much like with how digital games work, and renewing Xbox Live memberships.

Do You Want to Save Changes to The Document Template [Fix]

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Lots of MS Word users set up documents with templates. However, many reported Do you also want to save changes to the document template while using this feature.

Speaking of issues, many reported that Word document won’t edit, so you might want to check that one as well.

Today we will focus on fixing the template issues, so let’s get started.

Why does Do you also want to save changes to the document template appear?

  • Prompt before saving Normal template is enabled in settings.
  • Add-in or macro is changing the global template on your PC.
  • In some rare cases, your PC might be infected with a micro virus.

How do I stop Word from asking to save changes to template?

1. Switch off MS Word’s Add-ins

  1. To disable add-ins, open MS Word, click the File tab, and select Options to open the software’s settings window.
  2. Click Add-ins on the left of the Word Options window. That will open a list of your active and inactive application add-ins.
  3. Each add-in has a type category, such as COM, Template and Action. Click the Manage drop-down menu and select a type from there.
  4. Press the Go button to open a window displaying all the add-ins that fit within the type selected from the drop-down menu.
  5. Now you can deselect the checkboxes for the active add-ins to disable them.
  6. Press the OK button to close the window.

2. Switch the Send to Bluetooth Add-in off

  1. In Word, go to Options and select Add-ins.
  2. Select COM Add-ins from the Manage drop-down menu.
  3. Then deselect the Send to Bluetooth check box. Press the OK button to close the COM window.

As you can see, Do you also want to save changes to the document template can be easily fixed by disabling certain add-ins.

If you have further problems, check our guide on how to repair Word documents, since it might come in handy.

What method did you use to fix this issue? Let us know in the comments below.

The new Xbox One X is coming, but it’s hurting current sales, says GameStop in new earnings report

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Gamestop, one of the largest video games retailers worldwide, shared some interesting details about Xbox sales in its latest earnings reports. As Microsoft now longer reports Xbox One sales, preferring to highlight Xbox Live engagement in its quarterly earnings reports, it’s now really difficult to estimate the console’s performance. But as GameStop recently suggested, the upcoming release of the Xbox One X may well be hurting current Xbox sales.

Gamestop didn’t really go into details in its second quarter results, but this bit spotted by Ars Technica sums it all up: “New software sales and pre-owned sales declined 3.4% and 7.5%, respectively, impacted by lagging Xbox One sales.” In an earning calls yesterday, GameStop CFO Robert Lloyd was a bit more specific. “In both new and preowned, we’re seeing underperformance in Xbox One versus PS4, which we believe is due to the coming Xbox One X launch,” he explained.

Of course, this is just data from a single retailer (though a very big one), and it doesn’t necessarily reflects the state of Xbox One sales worldwide. Still, we wouldn’t be surprised if Xbox One S sales took a hit a couple of months ahead of the release of the much more powerful Xbox One X. As it turns out, the much-anticipated new console apparently beat Microsoft’s expectations by a wide margin: Microsoft confirmed earlier today that Xbox One X was the fastest selling Xbox pre-order ever, though Microsoft didn’t say how many units have been pre-ordered so far (and pre-orders are not actual sales, to be fair).

We don’t expect Microsoft to share any hard data anytime soon, but the company seems confident to have an hit on its hands with the Xbox One X. “All the signs are that it’s gonna be the number one hit product of this Holiday, so we’re gonna keep up with demand the best that we can,” shared Xbox Marketing Chief Aaron Greenberg earlier this week.

Microsoft promotes 2017-18 Showcase Schools, Innovative Educators

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

It’s the beginning of a new school year and Microsoft has announced the 2017-2018 Microsoft Innovative Educators Experts as well as the year’s Microsoft Showcase Schools.

The Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) program is a collective of educators across the globe. This year they are welcoming over 6,000 new additions. On top of that, Microsoft added 550 new Showcase Schools to extend their reach into education.

This makes a whopping total of 2,200 Microsoft Schools that explore the digital transformation of Microsoft technology into the classroom. Whether it’s by adding the availability of devices or deeper internal structure of OneDrive Class Notebooks, Microsoft’s goals in the development of interactive education continue to thrive exponentially.

Read more about what becoming a Microsoft Innovative Educator or Microsoft School means in the recent Education blog.

 

 

Turtle Beach’s Stealth 600 wireless headphones for Xbox One and Windows 10 is now available

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

If you’re not a big fan of playing games with a wired headset, Turtle Beach’s new Stealth 600 wireless headset seems like a good companion for your Xbox One console or Windows 10 PC. The new $99.95 headset supports Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol, which means that it works without any adapter on your console (you’ll need Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Adapter on a Windows 10 PC). Best of all, it comes with a 15-hour rechargeable battery, which is perfect for long gaming sessions.

The new wireless headset will be available worldwide on September 4, but Gamespot noted that it has already started shipping to everyone who  pre-ordered it. Here are some other cool features you can expect from the Stealth 600 Wireless Headset:

  • 50mm over-ear speakers
  • High-sensivity flip-up Mic
  • Support for Windows Sonic surround sound,
  • Audio Presets, including Bass Boost
  • ProSpecs Glasses Relief System

Turtle Beach is also selling the more expensive Stealth 700 wireless headset ($149.95), which adds support for DTS virtual 7.1 surround sound and active noise-cancellation. You can learn more about the company’s latest wireless headsets on its website.

Watch all of the Xbox consoles’ start screens in one video

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Video game consoles have a habit of growing on you. For Xbox fans, the splash screen when starting up the console is one of the most recognizable sounds. Starting from Xbox all the way to Xbox One S, we’ve grown accustomed to our favorite green (most of the time) X.

Native Gamer on YouTube has shared a video with all of the Xbox Startup Screens for the last 16 years.

This leaves to the imagination what the upcoming Xbox One X startup might look like when it releases later this year. Will it be the same as Xbox One S or will it be unique? Would you prefer for it to be something a little different? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Microsoft To-Do can now be used with Office 365 Education accounts

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft To-Do, the company’s new task manager app, set to replace Wunderlist, now supports Office 365 Education accounts. The app is still in preview, so admins must still enable To-Do in the”Services & Add-ins” page of the Office 365 admin settings. The app also works with personal and work Microsoft accounts, though it’s still not possible to log in the app with different types of accounts.

On Windows 10 PCs and phones, To-Do can be a nice complement to Cortana reminders. As spotted by All About Windows Phone, the Outlook calendar app now displays a shortcut to Microsoft To-Do when you click the “…” menu, which redirects you to the task manager app or the Windows Store listing if it’s not already installed. To-Dos are not yet fully integrated into Outlook Calendar (unlike Cortana reminders), but they do appear in your Outlook Tasks in the Outlook desktop app or the Outlook web app.

Microsoft To-Do is not yet fully integrated with the Windows 10 Outlook Calendar app.

Microsoft is regularly updating To-Do with new features, but the app doesn’t seem completely ready to replace Wunderlist yet. If you have yet to check it out, you can download Microsoft To-Do from the download link below.

Microsoft To Do: Lists, Tasks & Reminders
Microsoft To Do: Lists, Tasks & Reminders
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Microsoft To Do: Lists, Tasks & Reminders
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Rent Ghost in the Shell and other movies for just $0.99 in the Windows Store tonight

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft is throwing a special TGIF campaign in the (newly updated) Windows Store tonight with a variety of new and classic movies getting their rental fee taken all the way down to $0.99.

Among the discounted rental movies are the newly released Ghost in the Shell, The LEGO Batman Movie, Assassin’s Creed, La La Land, and the classic IT, The Shining, and Superman The Movie. You can see the full listing here.

It’s unclear how long these discounts will remain online though given that they’re being promoted under the TGIF phrase, they’ll likely expire within the next 24 to 48 hours. Like all movies in the Windows Store though, these are viewable on all Windows 10 PCs, Windows 10 Mobile phones, and Xbox One consoles.

Are you going to rent any of these discounted films? What would you recommend to others? Sign-off in the comments below.

Paint Cannot Save this File: How to Fix this Error for Good

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Paint is an accessory included in almost every Windows platform, but it doesn’t always save files.

For some Paint users saving changes to images, the desktop app has returned an error message stating: Paint cannot save this file. Save was interrupted, so your file has not been saved.

Then you can’t edit or save the picture open in the image editor when that error message pops up. These are a few ways you can fix the Save was interrupted error.

How can I fix the Paint cannot save this file error?

1. Use Windows Picture and Fax Viewer (Photos)

  1. First, back up the picture with an image editor that you can save it in. Then you can save a second copy.
  2. Right-click the picture in Explorer, select Open with from the context menu, and then Windows Picture and Fax Viewer (or Photos).
    open with
  3. Now, rotate the image by selecting either the Rotate Clockwise or Rotate Counterclockwise options.
  4. Press Yes if there are any prompts to continue.
  5. Rotate the image 360 degrees with either the Rotate Clockwise or Counterclockwise option.
  6. Save changes to your picture by selecting Copy To.

This issue is more frequent for pictures with the Exchangeable Image File Format (EXIF) that have file sizes between 63 KB and 66 KB.

Microsoft has an official Picture and Fax Viewer fix, or workaround, that’s more specifically for fixing the issue for EXIF images in Windows XP.

Note that Picture and Fax Viewer in XP  is essentially Photos in more recent platforms.

2. Unblock the Image File

  1. First, open File Explorer.
  2. Next, right-click the image you can’t save in Paint. Select Properties from the context menu to open the window below.
    unblock
  3. When data streams block the image, you’ll find an Unblock button on the General tab that isn’t usually there. A notice beside that button states the file might be blocked.
  4. Press the Unblock button in the General tab. That will unblock the file, and now you can edit and save the image in Paint again.

The official fix is primarily for Paint in Windows XP, but it might still work with Photo Viewer. However, the Save was interrupted error is certainly not limited to XP. Paint users have also had the same issue in more recent Windows platforms with various image file formats.

Unblocking the image is an alternative potential fix. That’s especially the case if you’ve imported or downloaded the file.

Then the file-saving error could be due to Alternative Data Streams blocking the picture file if you have an NTFS (New Technology File System) hard drive. This is how you can fix blocked image files.

Those are two fixes for Paint cannot save this file error. It’s worth noting that Microsoft is replaced Paint with Paint 3D in Windows 10, but the app is back in Windows 11.

Similarly, if Paint 3D is not saving pictures because something went wrong, check our detailed guide to fix it.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you fix this issue in the comments below.

The Surface phone could feature a 3D camera, patent suggests

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

The anticipated launch of Microsoft’s Surface phone has left many guessing exactly what the device may look like or how it will function. One new patent may give clues to how the new camera included in the smart device will function.

Microsoft has filed a patent for a 3D Camera function for  smartphone or tablet. This has lead many to speculate that the new phone, and possibly the company’s upcoming 2-in-1 device will include 3D capable camera features.

Specifically the patent relates to 3D depth and the ability to interpret in-air hand gestures for operating the device or using the onscreen menu options. In addition there will be the ability to use one’s finger or other object to draw on a surface laid out in front of the camera.

Microsoft has been filing patents as it prepares its new mystery phone and the industry is watching. This recent filing for 3D camera capabilities is a smart move in the race to innovate. Competition will be stiff as Apple works on its newer iPhone 8 which is rumored to also include some 3D technology of its own, so staying ahead of the curve is going to be vital for Microsoft’s survival.

A recent concept mock-up from Amir Estefad and Mohammad Reza Alidoost UI/ UX designers, predicts the Surface phone will have many of the features that the Microsoft community of users have been requesting from a larger wrap-around screen to more efficient use of space on the home screen.

Only time will tell how innovative the Surface phone will be. If any of the predictions are true, it’s sure to bring a much needed new thrill to the market once it’s released. Will you be buying? What features are you hoping get included? Tell us in the comments below.

Read Also:

Windows Server version 1709 will launch during Microsoft Ignite in September

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

There’s a treat on the way for developers who make use of Windows Server, and it’ll be happening during the Microsoft Ignite event early in this coming September. The new update will bring a suite of new changes to Windows Server, and comes in the wake of a new Insider build that launched just a short while ago.

In a new blog post on the Windows Server blog, Microsoft confirmed that the next release of the server operating system will be labeled Windows Server version 1709, and it will officially launch at Ignite 2017. The major release “builds on the innovation in Windows Server 2016,” with a better focus on application innovation and security. Additionally, Windows Server will adopt the same release cycle as Windows 10 with the same two channels:

  • Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) – this is business as usual with 5 years of mainstream support and 5 years of extended support. You’ll have the option to upgrade to the next LTSC release every 2-3 years the same way folks have for the last 20 years
  • For those of you who want to innovate faster and take advantage of new features sooner, we are adding the Semi-annual Channel. The Semi-Annual Channel is a Software Assurance benefit and is fully supported in production. The difference is that it is supported for 18 months and there will be a new version every six months.

Microsoft is planning a series of blog posts to prepare developers for these changes ahead of the release of Windows Server version 1709 in September. We invite you to add the Windows Server blog to your bookmarks if you want to learn more details about security, Software-defined datacenter and management.

Xbox app updated on iOS and Android with Mixer integration and more

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft has released an update for its Xbox app on iOS and Android that delivers a small changelog, but with 2 new features.

In today’s update, users of the Xbox app can now take a look at popular Mixer streams in the Trending area of the app, as well as see Club members who are currently broadcasting their game. Here is the full changelog:

  • View popular Mixer streams in Trending
  • Support for discovering Club members who are broadcasting

This update is available now in the App Store for iOS and Google Play Store for Android.

‎Xbox
‎Xbox
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‎Xbox
Developer:
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Xbox
Xbox
Download
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Xbox
Developer:
Microsoft Corporation
Price:
Free

New video offers peek at several Xbox One X enhanced games

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

DigitalFoundry is one of best websites out there for gamers who are snobs about graphics, and they have a video out talking about each of the games that are enhanced by Xbox One X. It’s a great watch for people who are looking to be sold on the new console, or people who just want to hear some jargon about nice looking games.

Rich and John from DigitalFoundry both had some interesting things to say about the Xbox One X, and several of the games that are getting improved by it. They talk a bit about native 4K games like Gears of War 4 and Killer Instinct, as well as Quantum Break, which is the only game not being moved up to native 4K. If you don’t think much about the details behind a good looking game but would like to learn more, hearing these two go on can really be enlightening.

The big thing to take away here is that the Xbox One X is actually living up to its marketing – namely about its ability to play these games at native 4K. We knew that these games would be running on 4K, but this video tells us a bit more about pure performance while that resolution is held. It seems like there are seriously stable framerates to look forward to as well as some nice eye candy.

Following “overwhelming” response from fans, Microsoft expects Xbox One X to be this Holiday’s number one hit product

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

With Microsoft’s Xbox One X Project Scorpio Edition quickly selling out at most retailers this week, it seems that the limited edition console exceeded the company’s expectation for the new console. Of course, Microsoft didn’t share how many Project Scorpio Edition consoles were available for pre-orders, but Xbox Marketing Chief Aaron Greenberg recently told DualShockers that response to the new console has been “overwhelming.”

Microsoft still expects the cheaper Xbox One S to remain the most popular option in the long run, but Greenberg forecasts Xbox One X to be this holiday’s hit product. “We’re gonna make as many Xbox One Xs as we can make,” he explained. “All the signs are that it’s gonna be the number one hit product of this Holiday, so we’re gonna keep up with demand the best that we can.”

Last year, the freshly released Xbox One S was the best-selling console in the US for a couple of months before being overtaken by Sony’s Playstation 4 in the crucial holiday season. It will be interesting to see if Microsoft can beat Sony this year with the most powerful console on the market, with the help of over 100 Xbox One X enhanced games at launch.

Change your old Synaptic laptop mouse into a Surface-like Precision trackpad

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

For those of us who are still stuck in 2014 or using a manufacturer PC which refuses to use Microsoft’s Precision Trackpad spec, there is still a way to change your cursor experience for the better.

With just a handful of steps and roughly 10 minutes of time, you can turn your aging Synaptic mouse into a full gesture complimented Precision Trackpad.

Thanks to some footwork by the Redditor 961955197 in a Windows 10 forum, we now have the simple 9 step process laid out for us.

  1. Precision drivers for Synaptics https://download.lenovo.com/pccbbs/mobiles/n1mgx14w.zip Precision drivers for Elan https://drivers.softpedia.com/get/Other-DRIVERS-TOOLS/Others/ELAN-Input-Device-for-WDF-Driver-161132-for-Windows-10-64-bit.shtml
  2. Go to devices manager, right click on the touchpad devices
  3. Click “Browse my computer for driver software
  4. Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer
  5. Click “Have Disk”
  6. Then browse the autorun.inf in your driver folder
  7. Choose the Synaptics Pointing Device and click Next
  8. Finished the driver installation
  9. Reboot and enjoy the Precision touchpad.

 

You may be asking yourself, why would you want to go through this process?

Well, to be honest, it’s not for everyone and it also carries its own set of risks. The converting process is by no means a faulty free endeavor (especially for Insiders who upgrade constantly), but if and when you come out on the other side, you’ll have a trackpad that makes better use of Microsoft’s vision for Windows 10.

How to Check Your System Uptime on Windows 10, 7

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Sometimes, you want to know how long your computer has been running and to do that, you need to find your PC’s uptime. Checking the uptime of your PC is relatively simple, and today, we will show you how to do it on Windows 10.

How to check system uptime in Windows 10?

1. Use Task Manager

Task Manager is a useful tool that lets you see all currently running and startup applications. Even though Task Manager is perfect for monitoring active processes, it allows you to monitor system performance. This feature lets you monitor your CPU, memory, and disk usage in real time.

In addition, you can also see other relevant information, including your system uptime. To check your uptime with Task Manager, do the following:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to start Task Manager.
  2. Once Task Manager starts, go to the Performance section. In the Performance tab, you’ll find all sorts of useful information about your CPU, but you’ll also find system uptime.

Using the Task Manager is one of the simplest and fastest ways to check your uptime, so be sure to try it out. Keep in mind that sometimes uptime in Task Manager isn’t always correct. This issue appears due to Fast Startup feature, so if you want to be certain that your uptime is correct, you might want to disable it.

2. Use Command Prompt or PowerShell

If you’re a more advanced user and prefer using the command line, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can check your PC’s uptime from your command line tool. To check the uptime in Command Prompt, do the following:

  1. Press Windows Key + X to open the Win + X menu and choose Command Prompt from it.
  2. When Command Prompt starts, enter the following command:
    • powershell (get-date) – (gcim Win32_OperatingSystem).LastBootUpTime
  3. After a few moments the results will appear in a list and you’ll be able to see your uptime.
  4. Optional: If you want to see less detailed information about your uptime, you need to use the following command:
    • powershell ((get-date) – (gcim Win32_OperatingSystem).LastBootUptime).ToString(‘g’)

If you’re not a fan of Command Prompt, you can run the same commands in PowerShell. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + X and choose PowerShell from the menu. If PowerShell isn’t available on the list, press Windows Key + S and enter powershell. Choose Windows PowerShell from the list of results.
  2. Once the PowerShell opens, enter (get-date) – (gcim Win32_OperatingSystem).LastBootUpTime or ((get-date) – (gcim Win32_OperatingSystem).LastBootUptime).ToString(‘g’) commands to see system uptime.

Both Command Prompt and PowerShell will give you the same results, and you can use any of these tools to see your system uptime.

3. Use systeminfo command

If you want to find information about your system uptime, use the systeminfo command in Command Prompt. To do that, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt.
  2. Once the Command Prompt opens, enter systeminfo and press Enter. Wait for a few moments for your PC to gather the required information.
  3. A list of information will appear. Look for System Boot Time value.

In addition to boot time, this command will provide you with a wide array of information regarding your system. If you’re overwhelmed with information and you want to see your system uptime, you can use systeminfo | find /i “Boot Time” command instead.

3. Use net statistic command

Another way to view your system uptime is to use a net statistic command. This command will show you information about your network as well as your PC’s uptime. To use this command, follow these steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt.
  2. When Command Prompt opens, enter net statistics workstation and press Enter.
  3. List of information will now appear. Now you have to find Statistics since value and see your system’s start time from there.

We have to mention that this command isn’t designed for checking system uptime, but it can be used for that purpose as well.

4. Use wmic os command

If you want to check your system’s startup time, you can do it with wmic os command. To use this command you have to follow these steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt.
  2. Once Command Prompt opens, enter wmic os get lastbootuptime and press Enter.
  3. Now you’ll see an array of numbers that represents your startup time.

The information isn’t most readable, but after a closer look you’ll notice that the array represents the exact date and time your system was started. As you can see, this is an easy way to check your system’s start time. The only downside is that the information isn’t represented in most user-friendly format, so you might have a bit of trouble reading it.

If you’re on Windows 11, we have a great guide on how to check Windows 11 uptime, so don’t miss it.

As you can see, checking your system uptime isn’t as hard as you think, and you can do it easily from Task Manager. If you’re an advanced user, you can check your system uptime using any of our other methods.

You Just Unplugged a Device From Audio Jack: 3 Ways to Fix

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Did you receive the notification you just unplugged a device from the audio jack? This notification issue pertains primarily to laptops or desktops with Realtek HD sound devices, and it pops up sporadically.

it may continue even when you haven’t plugged or unplugged a device. In this guide, we go through possible causes and some important fixes.

Why do You just unplugged a device from the audio jack message keeps popping up?

There are specific elements that users have observed to trigger this audio jack error. The following are at the top of the list.

  • Connection issues – A primary cause could be accidental disconnection of your audio device. So you must ensure this is ruled out before starting any other kind of troubleshooting. You may also have loose connections that need to be fixed.
  • Driver issues – For some users, it is a problem of outdated or corrupted audio drivers. This is an easy trigger for the audio jack problem.
  • Issues with configurations – In rare cases, you get the problem because of audio notifications enabled in Windows settings.
  • Software issue – Additionally, malfunctioning software will trigger the problem. Often these are third-party apps that may be corrupt or outdated.
  • Malfunctioning hardware – Also, you may simply be dealing with a few bad hardware parts. they could be your primary device or peripherals.

You should be able to use the solutions mentioned above to restore your device to proper working order.

How can I fix You just unplugged a device from the audio jack repeatedly on Windows 10?

1. Configure the Realtek HD Audio Manager Settings

  1. Open the Realtek HD Audio Manager.
  2. Click the I button at the bottom right.
    you just unplugged a device from the audio jack
  3. Select the Display icon notification area option, and press the OK button.
    you just unplugged a device from the audio jack
  4. Next, click the yellow folder icon almost at the top right corner, select Disable front panel jack detection, and if it’s selected, deselect the Enable auto popup dialog option; and press the OK button.
    you just unplugged a device from the audio jack
  5. Click the Device Advanced Settings window link at the top right of the audio manager.
  6. Select the Make front and rear output devices playback two different audio streams simultaneously playback option.
  7. Also, select the Tie up same type of input jacks, i.e., line-in or microphone, as an input device recording device option and press the OK button on the Device advanced settings window.
    you just unplugged a device from the audio jack
  8. Click the green active back panel speaker icon on the right of the Speakers tab.
  9. Select Set Default Device from the drop-down menu on the right of the tab.
  10. Next, click the Microphone tab, and select the red back panel to activate the microphone icon.
  11. Click Set Default Device on the Microphone tab’s drop-down menu.
  12. Finally, press OK to apply the new settings.

Your Windows search box is missing? Get it back in just a couple of simple steps.

You can fix the unplugged pop-up notification issue by adjusting some Realtek HD Audio Manager options. You must adjust the display icon, front panel jack detection, playback device, and audio device options.

2. Run the Playing Audio Troubleshooter

  1. Type audio troubleshooter in the search box and select Find and fix audio playback problems.
    you just unplugged a device from the audio jack
  2. Click Advanced and select the Apply repairs automatically option.
  3. Then press Next to launch the troubleshooter’s scan.
  4. The troubleshooter might request to turn off sound effects and enhancements. You can press Next to skip that.
  5. The troubleshooter lists anything it fixes. If it does fix something, restart your laptop or desktop.

3. Update the Audio Drivers

  1. Press Windows + X, and select Device Manager.
  2. Double left-click Sound, video and game controllers to expand its list of devices, right-click Realtek High Definition Audio, and select Update driver from the context menu.
  3. Windows might find a new driver for your sound card when you select Search automatically for drivers. 

Windows can’t automatically find and download new drivers? Don’t worry; we’ve got the right solution for you.

Namely, we advise you to employ a specialized driver manager that can entirely scan your PC for outdated drivers or various issues and fix them in a few clicks.

That’s how you can fix the constant notifications of you just unplugging a device from the audio jack on Windows. For the which device did you plug in error message, see our fix guide.

If you have any more suggestions or questions, leave them in the comments section below, and we’ll check them out.

Protect your PC: Ransomware attack increases by two fold in 2017

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Ransomware is undoubtedly getting a lot of attention these days especially after wide spread WannaCry episode. For the uninitiated, the ransomware is a piece of code that encrypts the files on your computer and demands a ransom to give away the decryption code. Yes, we have seen a variety of Ransomware plaguing the machines and invariably organisations and enterprises figure out on the top of the list.

ransomware attacks

As per a mid-year cyber attack, trends report from security analyst company CheckPoint the percentage of ransomware has doubled in the first half of this year as opposed to 2016. Furthermore, the report finds that 23.5 percent of the organisations were affected by the RoughTed malvertising campaign while 19.7 percent of the organisations were affected by the Fireball malware during the same time frame.

The report further sheds light on how the attackers are devising new methods to exploit Microsoft Office, in fact, we recently reported on how attackers were using PowerPoint files to gain access to the machine. The attackers are also introducing new methods to offload the malware and this will not require the user to open a backdoor for the attackers. The ransomware is also being disguised such that the anti virus/malware protection suite find it difficult to detect.

The report also mentions the cascading effects of “nation-state level malware” which is usually aimed for the masses and it can virtually hunt anyone instead of specified targets. Such attacks can be prevented by using the available solutions like network micro-segmentation, threat emulation and endpoint security. In fact, it is for this very reason that security solutions from company’s like BitDefender include ransomware protection.

The worst part, however, is that the Mobile malware developers are also actively developing malware. They usually use these malicious codes to control any activity on the device and also create a one-stop attack in order to fraud, steal information and also disrupt apps. The graph above represents the percentage of enterprises/organisations that were affected by the malware.

RELATED STORIES YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT:

Select Xbox Insiders can now join the Dragon Ball FighterZ closed beta on Xbox One

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

For fighting game fans with a love for Dragon Ball, there’s another game on the way. Dragon Ball FighterZ is coming to the Xbox One, and there’s even a closed beta available starting today. The beta is available to select Xbox Insiders, who will be notified through the Announcement feed in the Xbox Insider Hub app.

The game seems to fill a different niche from Dragon Ball Xenoverse, a recent series of fighting games from the same franchise. It’s more similar to a 2D fighting game, although it uses 3D models – very similar to the most recent Street Fighters.

The Xbox One X vertical stand will indeed be sold separately

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Unsurprisingly, the Xbox One X vertical stand will be available for purchase on its own for those who don’t get the Project Scorpio edition. Many Xbox fans were concerned by the mention of the stand coming free with the special edition of the console and assumed that it was going to be exclusive to that version. In an interview with Mike Ybarra, Eurogamer cleared up that this wasn’t the case.

No price point was announced during the interview, but it shouldn’t be too expensive. A similar peripheral is currently sold for the Xbox One S and retails for $19.99. You can probably expect the Xbox One X vertical stand to run for a similar price tag.

Microsoft has acknowledged that Windows 10 S is Insider-ready

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

In the blog post today for Windows 10 Insider Preview build 16273, Microsoft acknowledged that Windows 10 S is Insider-Ready. While it’s a bit exciting for those who are just installing Windows 10 S, this is not exactly a new feature. Ever since Windows 10 S was made available for download on August 1st, the Insider Program feature was always been accessible in the same menu in Windows 10 S as it is in other versions of Windows 10.

Anyway, Microsoft is now highlighting how Windows Insiders to install Windows 10 S on their PCs. In today’s Insider blog post, the company offered up the following advice to prospective Windows 10 S users:

Windows 10 S brings the experiences Windows users know and love, streamlined for security and performance…. Windows Insiders can try Windows 10 S on their PCs and join the Windows Insider Program via Settings > Update & security > Windows Insider Program to receive Insider Preview builds for Windows 10 S just as they would on other editions of Windows 10.

To try Windows 10 S on your PC, you must first be running Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Enterprise. If you meet these requirements, you can download the Windows 10 S installer to proceed. We previously compiled a guide on how you can install Windows 10 S, so feel free to check it out.

Keep in mind that Windows 10 S will only work with Windows Store apps, and it only is supported on certain devices.

Microsoft agrees to cease forcing downloads in German “Get Windows 10” case

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

According to a report from Computer World, Microsoft has agreed to cease forcing Windows 10 downloads in Germany as the result of a German “Get Windows 10” court case. This comes many months after Windows 7 and 8.1 users across the world complained about (the unwanted) Windows 10 Update automatically being downloaded to their hard drives during the free update period.

The court battle over this issue in Munich, Germany was initially filed by the Baden-Würtenberg consumer rights center and lasted roughly 18 months. A roughly translated version of a German press release puts the decision into perspective for consumers.

“With the declaration of discontinuance, the Group [Microsoft] is obliged not to install additional installation files for new operating systems without approval on the hard disk of Windows users… “

Cornelia Tausch, CEO of the Consumer Center in Baden-Württember, also issues strong words in the same press release. The statement suggests that this is a win for consumer rights.

“We would have wished for an earlier introduction, but the levy is a success for more consumer rights in the digital world.”

Now that Microsoft is obliged not to install new operating systems without the consent from Windows users in Germany, it remains questionable how this will impact the automatic download of featured Windows 10 updates. It also remains questionable as to how the decision in Germany will impact similar “Get Windows 10” court cases in the United States. Safe to say, there will be much more to come in this saga.

Microsoft may use “intelligent delivery” to keep parts of your Xbox One X games in the cloud

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox One X console will ship with a 1TB hard drive, which may seem a little low to download 4K assets for all Xbox One X enhanced games. Considering that old games like Halo 5: Guardians and Gears of War 4 are already close to 100GB without their 4K upgrades, it sounds like having an external hard drive may be mandatory for an hassle-free experience (unless Microsoft decides to release a 2TB Xbox One X console at some point).

But as it turns out, Microsoft may have a good reason to think 1TB of storage is enough for the Xbox One X. Speaking with GamesRadar at Gamescom, Head of Platform Engineering for Xbox Mike Ybarra hinted that Microsoft is currently thinking about a solution to reduce the footprint of Xbox One games on your console. “On the platform side [we’re] looking at things like what we call internally ‘Intelligent Delivery’,” explained Ybarra.

Without giving many details, the exec suggested that the intelligent feature would be able move to the cloud the bits of a game you no longer need to continue your playthrough. “People are more comfortable saying ‘I’ve done playing that, let me push that back to the cloud so I’ve got more room there.’ So we’re looking at technology like that,” added the exec.

Actually, the Xbox One already works a bit like that: when you download or install a game on your console, you can usually launch it and start playing without having to wait for the full installation to be completed. What Ybarra teased is very interesting, but maybe the Xbox team should go even further than that. Do you really need to fully download games that have a multiplayer modes if you’re only interested in the solo campaign, and vice versa? Instead of an “intelligent delivery” system, maybe it could it be possible to let gamers decide what parts of a game they want to download, but this may be just wishful thinking on our part.

Ybarra did not say if Microsoft has already started to work on this intelligent delivery solution, so it could be years before we see it materialize. Anyway, it’s great to see that the Xbox team has a forward-thinking approach for managing precious storage space on our consoles.

Microsoft Surface Studio and Xbox One S win gold, bronze IDSA awards for design

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Two of Microsoft’s consumer products have won awards from the Industrial Designers Society of America (otherwise known as the IDSA) for design. The Surface Studio picks up a gold award, and the Xbox One S picks up a bronze award from the membership-based not-for-profit organization.

In their decision, the IDSA cites the way in which the Surface Studio transforms the way people create. The organization also mentions how the Surface Studio redesigns the vision of an all-in-one computer.

Surface Studio is an all-in-one computer that transforms the way people create and produce. Built with creatives in mind, it redefines the ideology of an all-in-one computer that adjusts to the tasks at hand. Surface Studio is equipped with the thinnest in-class display mounted on a zero-gravity hinge, making it seem like a floating sheet of pixels. This simple gesture allows continuous workflow, switching from work mode to drafting to upright orientations with just one finger.

Next up, with the Xbox One S, the IDSA cites the smaller size of the home console in their reasoning for a bronze award. Also mentioned is support for 4K HD Blu-ray video and streaming and high-dynamic-range imaging.

The Xbox One S is the latest version of the Xbox game console. It’s capable of 4K HD Blu-ray video and streaming and high-dynamic-range imaging. It’s 40 percent smaller than its predecessor, the Xbox One. Additional features include an integrated IR blaster, an internal power supply and up to 2 terabytes of internal storage.

Microsoft also won a gold award in the Consumer Technology category for HoloLens, “This mixed reality is enabling new ways to create, communicate, work and play,” wrote the IDSA. Lastly, in the Digital Interaction category, the company received another gold award for the Surface Dial, with the IDSA remarking, “it offers a new way to interact with technology and create in a natural, immersive way.”

Microsoft may be exploring new AR gestures controls with wand-like patent

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

With HoloLens 2.0 not scheduled until sometime in 2019, Microsoft has carved out a nice chunk of time for its developers to fully explore the limits of its initial augmented reality platform and it looks like that exploration could include additional gesture controls.

Thanks to some digging by @h0x0d, aka, the WalkingCat we now know that Microsoft has filed a patent for a wand-like input device to accompany its augmented reality platform.

https://twitter.com/h0x0d/status/900174091264471040

The WalkingCat goes on to reference a stylus-like pen as a comparison for Microsoft’s latest patent functionality. The stylus-like pen was used by Google Draw which was another accompaniment to Google’s initial AR attempt with Google Glass.

While Apple and Google continue to work on more mainstream handheld applications for augmented reality, it appears that Microsoft is positioning its AR approach to be a full-scale computing replacement environment, equipped with re-envisioned input methods.

It’ll probably be a few more months before we start to really see some demos of what HoloLens 2.0 will bring to the AR game, but with onboard AI, new gesture controls and perhaps a sleeker design, it should be worth the wait.

Digital pre-orders for The Crew 2 open up on the Xbox One

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The Crew 2 is now available to pre-order digitally on Microsoft’s Xbox One family of consoles. The game is a direct sequel to the first The Crew game which came out back in late-2014 but features a variety of new gameplay mechanics such as bikes, boats, and plans to help differentiate it from its predecessor. Here’s the official description, pre-order link, and trailer.

In The Crew 2, take on the American motorsports scene as you explore and dominate the land, air, and sea of the United States in one of the most exhilarating open worlds ever created. With a wide variety of exotic cars, bikes, boats, and planes to choose from, experience the unbridled thrill and adrenaline-pumping excitement of competing across the entire USA as you test your skills in a wide range of driving disciplines. Record every heart-pounding, white-knuckle, moment and share them with the simple push of a button – fame is yours to take! Play with up to 7 friends online.

Pre-order The Crew 2 on Xbox One

The Crew 2 is due for release on March 18th 2018 and all digital pre-orders made before that date will get the HARLEY-DAVIDSON IRON 883TM 2017 and Mercedes-AMG C 63 Touring Car 2016 unlocked in-game.

Are you excited for The Crew 2 and will you pre-order? Let us know in the comments below.

Pre-order the new Xbox One Minecraft wireless controllers here while stocks last

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The two new Minecraft-themed Xbox controllers are now available to pre-order online. Each controller is a specially decorated version of the latest model of the Xbox One controller which works wirelessly with Xbox One consoles and Windows 10 PCs.

The green controller (Pre-order on Amazon here or Microsoft Store here) is inspired by the Creeper enemies from the Minecraft video games and features a nice little pack of TNT on the rear while the pink controller (Pre-order on Amazon here or Microsoft Store here) is based on one of the many pigs that litter the Minecraft in-game landscape.

Both of these controllers are due for release on September 12th 2017, just a few weeks away.

Are you going to grab one of these limited edition Xbox controllers? Let us know in the comments below.

4 best Feng Shui software for PC

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

If you’re looking for a reliable Feng Shui software, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re going to list the best Feng Shui tools that you can use to harness the power of this ancient Chinese philosophical system.

Feng Shui can help you reshape your fortune, relationships, and your whole life. It is a combination of Art and Science that has been used in China and the Far East for thousands of years.

We’ll get right to the core of the matter, and we’ll offer you the best Feng Shui tools that you can use to reach inner balance and build harmony with the surrounding environment.

Feng Shui software for PC

Mark Shackelford’s Feng Shui Software

This Feng Shui Software originally came in three versions, but two of them are now obsolete. The only one available is the pro version. This is a full system with all the Feng Shui features you need as a professional consultant or if you are following an in-depth course for a pro.

This Feng Shui Pro software can calculate all the necessary values that you need to know. Just enter the birth date of your clients and the tools will offer you detailed information about them.

Key features include:

  • Garden Layout: use Feng Shui element s for an auspicious garden
  • Feng Shui Form School: you have the opportunity of learning about the 4 Celestial Animals and all the ways in which they’ll protect your home
  • Gardener’s Almanac: it’s a daily guide to all you need to know about your garden (what to do and what not to do)
  • Daily Elements: you can check the elements related to any selected day
  • I Ching Lottery: allows you to choose your lucky lottery numbers
  • Essential Oils: this teaches you how to use them as Feng Shui cures and health improvements
  • Astrological Relationships: you can check your compatibility with your friends and family by comparison various Element relationships
  • Feng Shui Tips and Information: offers you all kinds of information and tips

Other helpful features include Chinese Games, a Monthly Chinese Calendar, I Ching Divination, Numerology and more.

It’s effortless to get started with the program because it is a standard Windows system with Point and Click. After you install it, you just have to move the mouse around and click on the buttons.

Find out more and get the program from the FengShui magazine.

Feng Shui Store

The software is perfect for your home and office, and it offers you the opportunity to carry out your very own professional Feng Shui Consultation and to print more than 70 pages of personalized charts and reports.

The program promises to improve more of your life’s aspects including the following:

  • Wealth, business, and career.
  • Relationship and romance.
  • Health and well-being.
  • Family & business relationships.
  • Fame and reputation.
  • Self-confidence.
  • State of mind.
  • Personal ambitions.
  • Prevention of unseen obstacles.
  • Children’s development, academic performance, and confidence.
  • Relations with your neighbors.
  • Pet’s welfare.
  • Motivation, etc.

You don’t need to have experience in Feng Shui to use the program, but if you are already familiar with these concepts, you will find out that the software can provide valuable and little-known information. The software is perfect for every Feng Shui enthusiast but also for Masters, teachers, practitioners, interior designers, builders, architects and more.

You have three versions of this software available according to your needs: the professional version, the Master version, and the Business version.

For detailed information visit the software’s official page.

QiPlus Feng Shui

This is a professional Feng Shui and Chinese Astrology software for Feng Shui practitioners. You can register for free, login and download the demo version from your account. The software is compatible with  all Windows versions.

You can buy additional packages such as the following:

  • QIPLUS Feng Shui ($250): it includes a Feng Shui report, data selection, and Qi calendar
  • Feng Shui Report ($150): it includes modules such as the Floor Plan Editor, Feng Shui Chart, and the Feng Shui Report
  • Date Selection ($50): it includes modules such as the Annual Sha, Date Selection – Great Sun Formula, and Date Selection – Moon Formula
  • Qi Calendar ($100): it includes the modules BaZi-Four Pillars of Destiny, Nine Stars, Melodic Elements, 12 Officers on Duty

 

FengShuiPC

 

 

FengshuiPC is an impressive Feng Shui software perfect for professional consultants. The tool is developed on the Microsoft Excel platform, features a very user-friendly interface and integrates seamlessly into the Microsoft Office family.

The benefits of this Feng Shui software include the following:

  • It saves time: the software does the groundwork, and it invests your time and skills to find the most auspicious solution for your clients
  • It provides reliable results only a few seconds after you have introduced the necessary data
  • It offers a professional presentation: you can present your customers a polished presentation of your solutions
  • It provides deeper analysis via a fast review of alternatives as well as through a simultaneous view of all influencing factors in one-floor plan.

You can buy FengshuiPC from its official page.

These are our top choices for Feng Shui software for Windows. Visit the official website of each tool to read more about them and then select the one that suits your needs and interests best.

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Sound won’t work on PC

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

If there is no sound on your Windows 7, 8, 10 PC/laptop, follow the troubleshooting steps listed in this article. Sound issues on PC/laptop are very common, yet the solution is not always that obvious or easy to find.

Sound won’t come out of computer

There are many possible explanations as to why there is no audio on PC/ laptop. Generally speaking, sound is missing due to hardware of software issues. As a result, in order to fix sound problems on PC/ laptop, you need to first make sure that your hardware is working properly. If you haven’t identified any hardware problems, focus on finding and fixing the software-related issues.

Without further ado, here are the steps to follow to fix sound problems on PC.

Fix sound issues on PC/ laptop

Solution 1 — Check your cables and speakers

First things first, make sure that you plugged your cables the right way and turned on the speakers. Maybe you tripped over the cables and you unplugged them by mistakes or you forgot that you turned off the speakers five minutes ago.

Also, if there is no sound when you launch a particular program, test the sound in other apps and programs to make sure that is not a program-specific issue.

Solution 2 — Use Microsoft’s audio troubleshooter

Before you dive into troubleshooting, use Microsoft audio troubleshooter to fix the sound problems you’re experiencing on PC.

You can download it from Microsoft’s support page. You can also use the Windows built-in audio troubleshooter:

  1. Go to Start button > type Troubleshoot, and then select Troubleshoot from the list of results.
  2. Select Playing Audio > Run the troubleshooter.

Sound won't work PC

Solution 3 — Make sure that your audio device is enabled

  1. Go to Start > type ‘Device Manager’ > hit the first result.
  2. If a device appears with a down arrow, this means that the respective device is disabled. Right-click it > select Enable to re-enable it.

Solution 4 — Update your audio input/ output driver

Make sure that your audio driver is up to date. Oftentimes, if your driver is obsolete, you may experience various sound bugs.

  1. Go to Start > type ‘Device Manager’ > hit the first result.
  2. Locate your audio device > right-click on it > select Update driverno audio pc
  3. If prompted, choose to update the audio driver automatically. Windows will then search and install the latest audio driver.

audio issues PC

Solution 5 — Roll back audio drivers

Sometimes, various drivers and especially GPU drivers may override audio drivers. Try rolling back audio drivers and check if sound is available when using a previous driver version. Additionally, disable any audio enhancements and use only standard settings.

Here are the steps to follow to roll back audio drivers:

  1. Go to Start > Device Manager.
  2. Navigate to Sound, video and game controllers.
  3. Right-click your audio driver > go to Properties.audio unavailable PC
  4. In the Driver tab, click Roll Back Driver.
  5. That should bring back the previous version and possibly fix your sound issues.

If the problem persists, move down to the next solution.

Solution 6 — Update your sound card driver

If there is no sound coming out of your PC after installing the latest audio drivers, check your sound card. Here’s how you can do that:

  1. Launch Device Manager again > select Sound, video and game controllers
  2. Right-click your sound card > select Update driversound card driver no audio
  3. Wait until Windows installs the latest driver and then test sound again.

Solution 7 — Change the audio output device

Sometimes, GPU drivers change the default audio output device. Here’s who you can enable the default settings:

  1. Right-click Sound icon in the Notification area > open Playback devices.
  2. Highlight the preferred device > select Set as Default.no audio
  3. Click OK and check for changes.

Solution 8 — Change the default sound format

This is actually a very common issue that causes sound problems on speakers or headphones. If your default sound format is wrong, you can’t play any sound on your computer.

Here’s how to change the default sound format:

  1. Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar > select Playback Devices
  2. Your default playback device is already selected > go to Propertiesfix no audio PC
  3. Go to Advanced tab > change the default sound format from the dropdown menu.

fix no audio PC

It is worth mentioning that these settings aren’t the same for all users. Enable various sound formats, test them and select the one appropriate for your device.

Solution 9 — Download the SigmaTel Audio Driver

If you have no sound on your Dell computer, try downloading the SigmaTel Audio Driver. Many users reported that after installing this driver, sound came back.

The only problem is that there are many SigmaTel Audio Driver versions available depending on your Windows version. Second, this fix works only for older Windows versions.

For example, the Sigmatel STAC 975X AC97 Audio Driver provides the necessary audio support for the Inspiron Notebook, Latitude, Precision and XPS Notebook models running Windows XP and Windows Vista.

Search for the appropriate Sigmatel audio driver, install it and check if the issue persists.

Solution 10 — Another program is controlling your sound

If there is no sound on your PC, another program may be controlling your sound. Some apps and programs tend to seize exclusive control over your computer, turning off sound on speakers.

To fix this, you need to block apps from taking exclusive control over your audio device:

  1. Right click the speaker icon on the taskbar system tray > select Playback devices.
  2. Right click the current playback device > go to Properties.
  3. Go to the Advanced tab > uncheck the option “Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device”.
  4. Click Apply > OK > restart you PC.

If you’re running Windows 8, uninstall KB2962407. Many users reported that this old cumulative update breaks audio. Go to Windows Updates, check the Update history and simply remove this update from the list.

Solution 11 — Check  Windows Audio and Audiosrv

Make sure that the Windows Audio and Audiosrv services are running:

  1. Go to Start > type “Services” > hit Enter
  2. Locate Windows Audio > check if the service’s status is set to running. If the service is disabled, right click it and select Start.fix windows audio
  3. Now, set Windows Audio to run automatically on startup > right-click Windows Audio > select Properties.
  4. Go to the General tab > go to the startup type section and select “Automatic”no audio computer fix
  5. Click Apply > OK
  6. Repeat the steps listed above for Audiosrv.
  7. Close the services window and check to see if the issue persists.

Solution 12 — Run SFC

This action allows you to repair corrupt system files that may be causing audio issues.

  1.  Go to the Start menu > type cmd > right-click Command Prompt > run as an Admin.
  2. Type the sfc /scannow command > hit Enter.SFC no audio
  3. Wait until the scan process is complete > restart your computer.

Solution 13 — Install the latest Windows updates

Make sure that you’re running the latest Windows OS updates on your machine. As a quick reminder, Microsoft constantly rolls out Windows updates in order to improve the system’s stability and fix various issues.

To access the Windows Update section, you can simply type “update” in the search box. This method works on all Windows versions. Then go to Windows Update, check for updates and install the available updates.

no audio fix PC

Solution 14 — Configure on-board sound in BIOS

Before you proceed, keep in mind that this solution is a complex one and the steps to follow require advanced technical skills. If you’re not comfortable with tweaking your PC’s BIOS, skip this solution.

  1. Enter BIOS > turn on your PC > hit F10 until the Setup screen appears.
  2. In the BIOS Setup screen, locate the on-board sound section. It should be located under Advanced.
  3. Select either Enabled or Disabled, depending on the current configuration > hit Enter > save and exit.
  4. After Windows starts > check if sound is available
  5. If there is no sound, shut the PC down > unplug the power cable > press the power button for 30 seconds to remove all the power from the PC.
  6. Plug the power cable in > turn on the computer.
  7. Enter BIOS > go to BIOS Setup screen > save the default BIOS settings.

You’ve reached the end of your troubleshooting guide. We hope that one of the workarounds listed above helped you fix the audio issues affecting your PC.

For more information on how to fix specific audio problems, check out the articles below:

Microsoft Company Store drops support for older browsers in September

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

If you access the Microsoft Company Store’s website right now, you’ll see a note saying that after a planned security update older browsers including Internet Explorer 10, won’t be able to access the store.

Microsoft Company Store ends support for older browsers

Starting with September 1 at 11 PM EST, to still be able to access the company store from a modern browser that will support the upcoming security upgrade. If you won’t update your browser, or if you don’t use a newer version, you won’t be able to access the online store anymore.

The announcement doesn’t come from the Redmond giant but Microsoft Company Store’s hosting provider eCompanyStore.

The browsers that will be supported include:

  • Microsoft Edge
  • Internet Explorer 11, released in 2013
  • Google Chrome 22, released in 2012
  • Mozilla Firefox 27, released in 2013
  • Safari 7, released in 2013
  • iOS 5, released in 2011

Protecting online shoppers and their data

The announcement also notes that the purpose of this security update is to increase the protection for online shoppers and their personal information. Upgrading to the latest browser version will result in making sure that your personal data will receive protection by the most recent standards wherever the TLS 1.2 protocol is enabled. The high security standard remains even if shoppers browse and shop other websites.

In case you weren’t familiar with it, the Microsoft Company Store is a dedicated online outlet which tends to all the needs of the company’s alumni and employees by offering them the opportunity to get merch at cut prices. In the Store, you can get various products including accessories, apparel, stationery and so on. The Store is not limited to Microsoft’s staff only, as anyone can purchase products from there.

Hulu Live TV comes to Xbox 360

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Want to hear something weird? Here goes: There are still developers creating things for Xbox 360. It’s something that many of us who are in-the-know about Xbox may forget, considering how long the Xbox One has been current gen, but it’s still true. The most recent update coming to Xbox 360 is an overhaul for the Hulu app, including live TV.

The update brings a whole new look to Hulu, as well as the new functionality. For people who are still using an Xbox 360 as their main way to consume media, this is a huge win. While I wouldn’t expect anybody to count on more updates in the near future, this is a great treat for people who haven’t upgraded to Xbox One.

Microsoft will shutter Surface Support Twitter account, urges users to follow Microsoft Helps instead

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft is shutting down the Surface Support Twitter account, giving followers a quick notice before they stopped supporting the page. This decision seems to primarily be part of Microsoft’s overall branding effort with their support pages, which they’re trying to consolidate into the MicrosoftHelps Twitter.

https://twitter.com/SurfaceSupport/status/900018118239682561

The Surface Support Twitter will continue to run for another 6 days, although it’s unclear if any real activity will occur during that time. At the end of the 6 days, it’s likely that the page will close altogether, although it may just stop posting.

Microsoft retires its GigJam collaboration app after public preview

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Preview programs for software can be extraordinarily useful for working out the kinks – it’s the best way to get feedback early on that can shape work in a meaningful way. Such was the case with GigJam, an experimental service that offered a great way to redact information from a document quickly and collaborate on documents without worrying about showing people things they don’t need to see.

GigJam, unfortunately, didn’t get to become a big success story for preview programs. It was announced today that GigJam will no longer be developed, and all existing Gigs will expire on September 22nd, when the app is officially shuttered.

It’s unclear why the decision was made, or if the team plans to integrate GigJam’s functionality into something else. For now, all we know is that users who relied on GigJam have a month to move on to another service for their projects.