How to Copy Microsoft Outlook Custom Views to Back up or Share

If you are looking for a method to copy Microsoft Outlook custom views to back up or share them on your other Outlook profile, this guide can help!

Outlook has no straightforward method to back up or share custom views, so first, you must convert to the. PST file, then export the file to the new Outlook profile.

We will discuss the step-by-step instructions to create, change Outlook view, apply them to a folder, and back up or share them to a new profile.

Can you customize the way Outlook looks?

Yes, you can choose a view to customize the way your Outlook looks. You can choose from three types of views or create a new view for each folder per your needs and keep the settings for the current folder or apply them to all folders

  • Compact – Display little details about the email in the message list & displays the email message in the Reading pane
  • Single – Shows every email as one line within the message list & displays it in the Reading pane
  • Preview – Shows every email as one line within the message list but hides the Reading pane

To change the view for an Outlook folder, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Windows key, type outlook, and click Open.type outlook, and click Open Outlook custom views
  2. On the left side, go to the navigation bar on Outlook, select the folder where you want to change the view and select it.
  3. Go to the View tab, then click the Change View option.View, then click the Change View
  4. Now choose from the options available from the list to customize how the Outlook folder looks. As you select the view, the change will be reflected in the folder.

How do I create a custom view in Outlook?

1. Create a new view

  1. On Outlook, go to the folder for which you want to change the view and select it.
  2. Click View, then click the Change View optionManage Views - Outlook custom views
  3. From the drop-down menu, select Manage Views.
  4. On the Manage All Views dialog box, click the New button.Manage All Views dialog box, click the New custom view in Outlook
  5. On the Create a New View window, name the new view, and select the type of view from the Type of view list box. There are seven Outlook layouts available for Type of view;OUTLOOK_ Type of view
    • Table – Displays information in rows and columns, suitable for email messages
    • Timeline – Displays the content along a fixed timeline, suitable for tasks or folders with a limited number of items
    • Card – Used for contact folders; it allows you to see all the fields applied to an item, irrespective of the fact they are filled or not
    • Business Card – Used for contact folders; but only shows the fields with data.
    • People – Shows you the list of your contacts with their names & photos
    • Day/Week/Month – Usually used for Calendar folders but can be used for emails folders
    • Icon – Displays your items with an icon & their subject, suitable for notes folders
  6. Next, select a category for Can be usedon from the three options:
    • This folder, visible for everyone
    • This folder, visible only for me
    • All Mail and Post folders
  7. Choose All Mail and Post folders to apply the view to all the Outlook folders.OUTLOOK_1Click OK
  8. On the Advanced View Settings window, customize the settings, and Click OK
  9. Click OK or Apply View on the Manage All Views window.

This is how the custom view is created, and you can use it for any view on any folder type. You can also restore the settings to the default views by selecting the old view options listed.

2. Choose the view for a folder

  1. On Outlook, go to the Folder to change the view. Click View, then click Change View. View, then click Change View
  2. Choose the new view that you create. It will be applied to the folder instantly.
  3. If you want to apply the same on all the folders, go to Change View, and select Apply Current View to Other Mail Folders.Apply Current View to Other Mail Folders. Custom view Outlook

3. Modify the existing views

  1. On the Outlook window, click the View tab, then select Change View.
  2. From the drop-down window, select the Manage Views option.Manage Views - Outlook custom views
  3. On the Manage All Views dialog box, click the Modify button.OUTLOOK_Modify
  4. Next, on the Advanced View Settings window, you will find several options like
    • Columns – Enables to add columns to the view
    • Group By –  Group the contents in the view
    • Sort – Allows you to choose how items are sorted
    • Filter – Sets the criteria of what to include or exclude in the view
    • Other Settings – Customize fonts, size & style, and other table view settings
    • Conditional Formatting – Apply different formats on any email type, like Unread messages, Unread group headers, Submitted but not sent, Expired email, Overdue email Messages in other folders, & Site Mailbox document pending upload
    • Format Columns – Specify the display formats for every field
  5. Choose the options accordingly and click OK.OUTLOOK_select the settings, click OK

If you are wondering how Outlook view changed itself and want to fix it, we suggest you read this guide to find easy solutions.

How do I save a custom view in Outlook?

To save the custom view on Outlook you need to go to View tab, click Change View, then from the drop-down, choose any of the views listed.

Next, you can again go to the Change View option, and choose Save Current View as a new view option. This way, you can perform a Microsoft Outlook customization of each folder.

How do I copy the Outlook custom view to back up or share?

  1. On the Outlook window, go to the View tab.
  2. Click the Change View option from the drop-down menu, and click Manage Views.Manage Views  Outlook custom view
  3. On the Manage All Views window, click the Copy button.Copy the view
  4. Next, on the Copy View window, type the name of the new view; for the Can be used on option, choose This folder, visible to everyone, and click OK.OUTLOOK_ save the copy
  5. Next, go to the new Outlook profile and the File tab.OUTLOOK_Jgo the File tab
  6. Select Account Settings, then from the drop-down menu, select Account Settings.Account Settings Outlook custom view
  7. On the next window, switch to the Data Files tab, and click Add.OUTLOOK_Add data files
  8. Choose the .pst file in the Views folder and click OK.OUTLOOK_select the file custom view OUtlook
  9. Once complete, click Close.OUTLOOK_close
  10. Now you can check the Views are copied to the new Outlook Profile.

So, this is how you can create a new Outlook custom view, copy it and share it on a different profile to keep View settings as you like on all your profiles.

If you are looking for ways to move Outlook toolbar from side to bottom, we suggest you check out this guide for step-by-step instructions.

We also have a guide on what to do if the Outlook navigation bar is moved to left, so don’t miss it.

Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.

How to Allow or Block Sites on Xfinity

Xfinity routers are great. However, many reported that the blocked sites feature is not working on Xfinity routers. This can be a problem since you can’t use your router as parental control software anymore.

Luckily, this isn’t a big issue, and today we will show you how to block websites when using Xfinity devices properly.

Can Xfinity router block websites?

Yes, the Xfinity router can block websites rather easily. It can be configured to do that using the dedicated phone app.

More advanced users can use their browsers to access the router settings and block the desired websites in just a few clicks.

What can I do if the Blocked sites feature is not working on the Xfinity router?

1. Use the Xfinity app

  1. Download the Xfinity app from Play Store or App Store.
     
  2. Next, start the app and log in.
  3. Select the user that you want to restrict from accessing certain websites. If that user isn’t available, you’ll need to add it manually.
  4. Next, go to Parental Controls.
  5. From there, you should be able to block or allow websites for that user.

2. Use the web browser

  1. Access your Xfinity router by visiting the following address in your browser: https://10.0.0.1/
  2. Log in with your credentials.
  3. Navigate to Parental Control locate Managed Services and click on Enable.
     
  4. Click on Add button in the Blocked Sites section.
  5. Add the websites that you want to block.

If you want to unblock a certain website, you can do that by removing the website from the list.

As you can see, it’s incredibly simple to block on your router, and you can try our solutions if the blocked sites feature is not working on the Xfinity router.

Unfortunately, there are issues with Xfinity routers, and we covered some of them in our Xfinity blocking VPN guide, so you might want to check it out.

Do you use this feature on your Xfinity router? Let us know in the comments section below.

2 Quick Methods to Download Outlook Emails as PDF

We receive hundreds of emails every day, be it work related or for personal use. And many of these need to be archived or saved for easy access at a later point. Platforms offer an option for it since several users want to download Outlook emails as PDFs.  

You can easily access these emails, even offline, if the PDF files are stored locally. Besides, this becomes all the more important for crucial email messages. But can users download emails as PDF files in Outlook? Let’s find out! 

Can you download an email as a PDF?

Yes, most email services can save email files as PDFs quickly. And since the feature is not specific to the service but the browser, it makes things all the more seamless. Remember, the Outlook app offers a built-in print option to convert Outlook emails to PDF.

Also, you can download emails in PDF file format on Gmail, amongst other major platforms. For easy viewing of PDF files, we recommend you download Adobe Acrobat Reader or integrate it via Adobe Document Cloud.

Why can’t I save Outlook emails as PDFs?

Here are the primary reasons you can’t download emails in PDF format:

  • Issues with the browser: When saving emails in PDF format, even trivial issues with the browser can conflict with the process and terminate it. 
  • Misconfigured settings: Several settings are critical to saving emails, and if any of these are not configured correctly, the original email won’t download as a PDF.
  • Incorrect path: In a few cases, users reported that while they could convert emails to PDF files, these were saved in another directory, giving the impression that exporting an email as a PDF file failed. This also leads to Outlook not opening PDFs.

How do I save an email as a PDF in Outlook on Windows?

  1. Launch Outlook, and open the email you want to print.
  2. Click the File menu.file
  3. Now, click on Print.print to dowload outlook email as pdf
  4. Select Microsoft Print to PDF from the drop-down menu, and then click on Print. Also, you can click on Print Options to change the printer options and settings.print to PDF
  5. Navigate to the path where you want to download the email, add a name for the PDF file in the text field, and click on Save.save

That’s it! The downloaded Outlook email file is now accessible locally in the stored location in PDF format.

How do I save an email as a PDF in Outlook on Mac?

  1. Launch Outlook on your Mac device, open the email you want to save in the PDF format, click the File menu, and then select Print from the drop-down menu.
  2. Specify how many pages you want for print output or if you want to print the entire email.print to download outlook email as pdf
  3. Now, select Save as PDF from the dropdown menu at the bottom, and then click on Print.
  4. Enter a name for the PDF file, choose the download location, fill out the other fields, and set a password to access the document via Security Options if required. 
  5. Finally, click on Save.

You have successfully saved the email from Outlook on Mac. The downloaded email should now be available in the path you chose earlier. If an error occurs during the process, restart the device and try again.

That’s it! You now know how to download Outlook emails as a PDF on Windows and Mac, and this information will go a long way in ensuring a seamless Outlook experience. Besides, Outlook offers a preview of the PDF file, making things all the more simpler.

So, start storing all vital emails as PDFs locally and access them anytime you want. Before you leave, find out how to speed up Outlook if it’s running slow in Windows and a quick way to save Outlook emails to desktop.

For any queries or to share issues you faced with the process, drop a comment below.

Xbox Free Play Days: Elder Scrolls Online and 5 Assassin’s Creed titles

Xbox Free Play Days is back with one of the most stacked weekends in recent memory. Six games (and possibly a seventh) are on the slate for this week’s Xbox Free Play Days event, from today through August 13. Frankly, it will be a tall order to find time to try all these.

Five games in this week’s lineup are Assassin’s Creed games; we reported yesterday that Ubisoft was getting in on this week’s free to play action with a big AC franchise sale with games hugely discounted by as much as 85% in addition the the free to play weekend.

Assassins Creed Free Play Weekend August 2023 Custom 1

Anyways, let’s have a look at this week’s Xbox Free Play Days lineup. Keep in mind that you need either Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to take advantage of this.

The Elder Scrolls Online

It’s also been reported that Crash Team Rumble will make an appearance in this week’s roster starting Saturday, August 12.

Learn more about Xbox Free Play Days

Xbox Free Play Days is a perk of Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. (Nearly) each and every week a fresh lineup of games are made available for members to play unrestricted, and with no additional charge. It’s a great way to try something new and maybe even find a new favorite. Featured games are also typically discounted during the Free Play Days event. Learn more by visiting the Xbox Free Play Days FAQ page.

Featured image via Xbox Wire. 

70+ Outlook Command Line Switches you Should use Right Away

Outlook is a top-notch email client used by professionals and IT admins. Behind just the normal use of sending and receiving emails is the ability to customize and simplify tasks.

One of the tools you can use to ease your tasks is a command-line switch. These commands allow you to perform a series of tasks without accessing Outlook.

In this guide, we will detail everything you need to know about command-line switches and how to take advantage of them.

What are switches in command line?

Command-line switches are modifiers added to the end of the .exe file of an Office program for automation purposes. They can also be used for troubleshooting, like clearing error messages.

They are only used in the startup of Outlook and any other Office files where they are needed. A standard command-line switch format should be made up of a forward slash and a word showing what the switch does.

An example is the Outlook command-line switch below: outlook.exe /nopreview.

With the switch above, Outlook will open without the Reading pane. Also, there are times when the switch will have additional instructions called parameters to provide detailed information on how the Office program will be opened.

How do I use Outlook switches?

1. Using Run to use a switch once

  1. Press the Windows key + R to bring up the Run dialog box.
  2. Now, type a quotation mark (“), followed by the path of Outlook.exe on your PC. If you don’t know the path, click the Browse button and navigate to the location of Outlook.exe on your PC.
  3. Next, close the quotation mark, then type space, followed by the command-line switch, as shown in the example below: "c:\program files\microsoft office\office15\outlook.exe" /nopreview

With the Outlook command-line switch above, you can open Outlook without showing the Reading page. Note that this works just once, and Outlook will normally open the next time you open it.

To keep using the switch, you will have to repeat the steps above.

If you ever encounter an Outlook script error, follow the solutions in the highlighted guide to fix it.

2. Creating a custom switch

  1. Press the Windows key, type outlook, right-click on Outlook, and select Open file location.
  2. Right-click the Outlook.exe file and select Send to.
  3. Now, choose Desktop (Create shortcut) on the list. This will create an Outlook shortcut on your desktop.
  4. Next, right-click the newly created shortcut and select Properties.
  5. Click the Shortcut tab at the top.
  6. From here, go to the Target field and type space at the end of the path there, followed by the command-line switch, as shown below: "c:\program files\microsoft office\office16\outlook.exe" /nopreview
  7. Finally, click the Apply and OK buttons.

With this, you should be able to repeatedly use this custom command-line switch to open Outlook without the Reading page.

Here are some important things you need to know about command-line switches:

  • You cannot use multiple switches with Outlook at a time.
  • There is no need to worry about letter cases when typing switches, as they are not case-sensitive. The same goes for parameters.
  • It is important to always include a blank space before every switch and parameter.
  • If you are trying to use a parameter that is a file on your PC, always enclose it in double quotation marks.

Knowing all that, let’s see the complete list of command line switches you may apply to Outlook.

Comprehensive list of command line switches

SwitchDescriptionCompatible Outlook versions
/a “<filepath>”The switch creates a new item and attaches a file from a path. You can’t use the switch for message classes that are not based on Outlook. Also, if the item type is not specified, the default IPM.Note will be applied.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/altvba <otmfilename>Opens the VBA program in the otmfilename, instead of what is in %appdata%\Microsoft\Outlook\VbaProject.OTM.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/autorun macroRuns the macro specified upon launching Outlook.2003
/c <messageclass>Creates a new item of the message class you specify and other valid MAPI form). For example:
/c ipm.appointment – to create an appointment
/c ipm.contact – to create a contact
/c ipm.note – to create an email message
/c ipm.stickynote – to create a note
/c ipm.task – to create a task
2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/checkclientPrompts e-mail, news, and contacts default manager2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
CLEAN SWITCHES
/cleanautocompletecacheDeletes all the names and e-mail addresses on the AutoComplete list.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleancategoriesIt restores the categories to their default names and deletes any custom category names you created.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanclientrulesLaunches Outlook and removes client-based rules.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanconvongoingactionsConversations Actions Table (CAT) entries for all conversation threads, including the tagging, ignore, and moving rules immediately stopping any additional actions. The CAT entries expire in 30 days if there are no activities.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleandmrecordsCleans the logging records saved when a manager or a delegate declines a meeting.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanfindersClears the Search folders from the Microsoft Exchange server store.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanfreebusyCleans and regenerates the free/busy information. Only available when you can connect to your Microsoft Exchange server.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010
/cleanfromaddressDeletes all manually created From entries from the profile.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanipsHelps to restore the receival of new messages in Exchange Cached mode.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanmailtipcacheCleans all MailTips from the cache.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanprofileDeletes any invalid profile keys and recreates the default registry keys if necessary.2003, 2007
/cleanpstStarts Outlook with a clean .pst () file.2003
/cleanremindersDeletes and regenerates the reminders.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanroamedprefsThis switch deletes all previously roamed preferences and copies them again from the local settings on your computer. This contains the roaming settings for working hours, RSS rules, free/busy grid, and calendar publishing.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanrulesLaunches Outlook and removes client- and server-based rules.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanschedplusRemoves all Schedule+ data from the server and it activates the free/busy data on the Outlook Calendar, which is to be used and seen by Schedule+ 1.0 users.2000, 2002/XP, 2003
/cleanserverrulesLaunches Outlook and removes the server-based rules.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleansharingThis switch will delete all SharePoint subscriptions, Internet Calendar, and RSS, from your Account Settings. However, it will leave the downloaded content on your computer. This comes in handy if you cannot remove these subscriptions from Outlook 2013.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleansniffThis switch helps to override the programmatic lockout that selects the computer to process meeting items. The purpose of this lockout is to ensure that there are no duplicate reminder messages. However, it helps you clear the lockout on your computer and allow it to process meeting items.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleansubscriptionsRemoves subscription messages and properties for the subscription features.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/cleanweatherDeletes the city locations added to the Weather Bar.2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/designerIt overrides the default client check in the first run and opens Outlook.2003
/embedding <msgfilename>Opens the specified message file (.msg) as an OLE embedding. Also used without command-line parameters for standard OLE co-create.2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/explorerLaunches Outlook in Explorer mode.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007
/f msgfilenameLaunches the specified message file (.msg) or the Office saved search (.oss).2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/finderLaunches the Advanced Find dialog box in Outlook.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/firstrunOpens Outlook as it would be at the first run.2003, 2007
/folderThis switch starts a new window in folder mode without the navigation pane.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007
/hol holfilename.holLaunches the specified .hol file.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/ical <icsfilename>Launches the specified .ics file.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/importNK2This switch imports the contents of an .nk2 file. This file contains the nickname list used by both the automatic name-checking and Auto-Complete features.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/importprf filename.prfLaunches Outlook and imports the specified MAPI profile (*.prf). But if Outlook is already open, it will queue the profile you want to import for the next clean start.2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/l <olkfilename>Launches the specified .olk file.2003
/launchtraininghelp assetidLaunches a Help window and displays the topic you specify in assetid.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/m emailnameHelps you add an e-mail name to the item and will only work with the /c command-line parameter. For example, outlook.exe /c ipm.note /m emailname2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/manageprofilesHelps you manage your account settings and Mail Profile outside the Outlook app by opening the Mail Setup dialog.2016, 2019, 2021, 365 (Build 1806 and later)
/nocustomizeLaunches Outlook without customization features such as outcmd.dat and *.fav file.2003, 2007
/noextensionsIt disables the extensions on startup but still lists them in the Add-In Manager.2003, 2007
/nopreviewLaunches Outlook without the Reading Pane.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/p msgfilenameThis switch will print the specified message file (.msg).2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/pim profilenameHelps you create a new mail profile with the name written in profilename. The mail profile will not have an email account so you will have to create one.2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/profile profilenameLaunches the specified profile. You will need to include the profile name in quotation marks if it contains a space.2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/profilesThis switch will open the Choose Profile dialog box irrespective of the Options setting saved in the Tools menu.2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/promptimportprf filename.prfWorks similarly to /importprf. The only difference is that it shows a prompt with which you can cancel the import.2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/recycleIf you have an existing Outlook window, this switch will start with it. It is usually used with /explorer or /folder.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/remigratecategoriesLaunches Outlook and performs the following commands: – Updates colored For Follow Up flags to Office Outlook 2013 color categories
– Updates calendar labels to Office Outlook 2013 color categories
– Adds all categories used on non-mail items into the Master Category List.
This switch is very similar to Upgrade to Color Categories but for each Outlook mailbox.
2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/remigrateconversations2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
RESET SWITCHES
/resetfoldernamesThe switch is resetting the default folder names to default names in the current Office user interface language. For instance, if you first connect to your mailbox Outlook using a Frech user interface, the French default folder names cannot be renamed. This switch helps you change the default folder names to another language after changing the user interface language or if you install Outlook in a different language.2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resetfoldersRestore the missing folders for the default delivery location.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resetformregionsEmpties the cache for form regions and reloads the form region definitions from Windows Registry.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resetoutlookbarRebuilds the Outlook Bar.2000, 2002/XP
/resetnavpaneClears and regenerates the navigation pane for the profile you are using currently.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resetquickstepsRestores the default Quick Steps. All user-created Quick Steps are deleted.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resetsearchcriteriaResets all Instant Search criteria so that the default set of criteria is shown in each module.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resetsharedfoldersRemoves all shared folders from the Navigation Pane.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/resettodobarClears and regenerates the To-Do Bar task list for the current profile. The To-Do Bar search folder is deleted and re-created.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365

Other important command line switches

SwitchDescriptionCompatible Outlook versions
/restoreAttempts to open the same profile and folders that were open prior to an abnormal Outlook shutdown.2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/rpcdiagOpens Outlook and displays the remote procedure call (RPC) connection status dialog.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/rununittests 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/s <filename>Loads the specified shortcuts file (.fav).2002/XP, 2003
/safeStarts Outlook without extensions, Reading Pane, or toolbar customization.2000, 2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/safe:1Starts Outlook with the Reading Pane off.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 365
/safe:2Starts Outlook without checking mail at startup.2003
/safe:3Starts Outlook with extensions turned off, but listed in the Add-In Manager.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/safe:4Starts Outlook without loading Outcmd.dat (customized toolbars) and *.fav file.2003, 2007
/select foldernameStarts Outlook and opens the specified folder in a new window. For example, to open Outlook and display the default calendar use:
"C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office14\Outlook.exe" /select outlook:calendar
2002/XP, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/share feed://URL/filename
/share stssync://URL
/share web://URL/filename
Specifies a sharing URL to connect to Outlook. For example, use stssync://URL to connect a Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 list to Outlook.2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/sniffStarts Outlook and forces a detection of new meeting requests in the Inbox, and then adds them to the calendar.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/t <oftfilename>Opens the specified .oft file.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/unregserverDeletes all registry keys and file associations for Outlook. Its actions are based on the Outlook.srg file located in the same folder as the Outlook application. Use the /regserver switch to rewrite the registry keys and file associations after using this switch.2000, 2002/XP
/v <vcffilename>Opens the specified .vcf file.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/vcal <vcsfilename>Opens the specified .vcs file.2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, 365
/x <xnkfilename>Opens the specified .xnk file.2003, 2007

There you are! Now you have a complete list of Outlook command line switches you may use to configure the app to start exactly as you want to.

To take more control of your inbox, here are tips to organize your email to work for you.

You may also be interested in reading our guides on how to remove external tags in Outlook or how to remove RSS feeds from Outlook.

If Outlook is now showing the subject, the highlighted guide will help you fix the problem quickly.

For any other questions or suggestions, feel free to leave a message in the comments section below.

Microsoft Authenticator to trial WhatsApp code delivery for enhanced security

Microsoft is working on a new feature for its Microsoft Authenticator application. It will allow users in India, Indonesia, and New Zealand to receive confirmation codes via Meta’s WhatsApp application. This feature aims to provide an alternative to the traditional method of receiving authentication codes via SMS, which is considered less secure due to its vulnerabilities. This trial of confirmation code delivery via WhatsApp is scheduled to begin in October.

Using WhatsApp, which recently introduced a screen-sharing feature, as a delivery channel for authentication codes could enhance security by leveraging the encryption and security measures inherent to the messaging platform. While WhatsApp has privacy concerns, we assume this option is being explored to provide users with an additional choice for receiving authentication codes more securely.

The information regarding this planned feature was initially shared within the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.

via gHacks

Defence Ministry of India switches from Windows to ‘Maya’ OS and ‘Trap’ to boost cybersecurity

The Defence Ministry of India is taking measures to address the increasing cyber and malware attacks on critical infrastructure. Reportedly, they’re transitioning from Windows to an open-source operating system like Maya, based on Ubuntu. Open-source systems tend to provide greater transparency and allow for continuous security auditing, which can help identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities more effectively.

Last month Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued a warning of a critical vulnerability in Microsoft products.

The new Maya OS is designed to have a user-friendly interface and functionality similar to Windows, making the transition smoother for users. This similarity should reduce the learning curve for employees accustomed to Windows. The new OS is expected to enhance cybersecurity by preventing malware attacks and other cyber threats that have been on the rise.

The Indian Defence Ministry aims to install Maya OS on all computers connected to the internet in South Block before August 15. Besides the new Maya OS, the Defence Ministry also implements an ‘endpoint detection and protection system’ called Chakravyuh, which simply translates to ‘Trap’ in English.

Currently, Maya OS is installed only on Indian Defence Ministry systems. However, the three Services (Army, Navy, and Air Force) have been involved in the vetting process. They are likely to adopt it on their respective networks as well.

Government development agencies developed Maya OS within a six-month timeframe. It’s encouraging that the Navy has already cleared it, and the Army and Air Force are evaluating it before adopting it onto their networks.

via Gizbot

Formovie Theater UST 4K laser projector review: Feature-packed

Starting at $3,499.00

Formovie isn’t new to the projector sector, but its latest Theater UST 4K laser projector may be the company’s best offering to-date while also checking every feature box along the way.

While the Formovie Ultra Short Throw 4K projector is chalked full of value-adds with its list of features, the question for most people might be, why pay almost three times more for a projector over a standard TV screen, and I believe for projector enthusiasts this UST triple laser projector sells itself.

Specifications
Dimensions Recommended picture size
550 × 349.2 × 107.5 mm/21.7 × 13.7 × 4.2 in 80’’ to 150’’
Weight Keystone
9.8 kg/21.6 lb 8-Point
Color HDR
Cosmos grey Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ Decoding
Display Refresh rate
TI DLP® 60 Hz
Light engine Contrast ratio
Laser whit ALPD® by Appotronics 3,000: 1
Native Resolution Color space
4K UHD(3840×2160) 107% BT.2020
Brightness Audio codec
2800 ANSI lm Dolby Atmos, Dolby Audio, DTS:X, DTS-HD
Throw Ratio Speakers
0.23: 1 Full range×2 + Tweeter×2 (30W)
By Bowers & Wilkins

Look and Feel

Formovie’s ultra-show throw (UST) projector comes in a rather large box to accommodate its larger-than-average footprint at 55 x 34.92 x 10.75 cm (21.7 x 13.7 x 4.2 in) which equates to the size of an old school audio receiver.

In addition, the Formovie also weighs a hefty 9.8 kg’s or (21.6 lbs.), however, the projector isn’t meant to be moved after setup, so the weight is negligible and in-line with other dedicated home projector theaters of this caliber.

Formovie Living Room

The mostly plastic chassis of the Formovie is well constructed and dense feeling which houses the device in a “Cosmos Grey” exterior equipped with a large front facing speaker arrangement, two smaller speakers on either side, 3 HDMI 2.1 slots, 2 USB-A 2.0 ports, audio out, and Ethernet connection.

The connection ports all support the latest technology such as enhanced audio return (eARC) for HDMI 2.1 and 4K at 60 FPS as well as quick data transfers from the USB-A 2.0 ports for connected devices such as external hard drives, consoles, or streaming sticks.

Formovie Back Panel Ports

As is the case with most UST projectors, the Formovie also houses its triple-laser array nestled at the top of the device near the front and is equipped with a light disturbance sensor that powers down the projection when the light source is interrupted by objects.

There are vents that flank the device and were audible during some streaming sessions.

Unfortunately, the Formovie isn’t equipped with onboard controls, which forces users to operate the theater using the proprietary remote.

Formovie Top Remote

The remote is sleek and straight forward with large enough buttons and dials that can be operated in the dark or from muscle memory as well as a dedicated YouTube button for users who haven’t jumped aboard the streaming stick train just yet.

Performance

Of all the projectors I’ve tested over the past three years, the Formovie was among the best thanks in part to its color calibration, clarity, and its implementation of Android TV 11.0.

At 2800 ANSI lumens the 4K clarity offers parity with LED, Plasma, LCD OLED, MicroLED and QLED screen reproduction in darker environments, and in brighter lighting conditions the picture quality is still substantially impressive on the Formovie out of the box.

For fans of sharp contrast and vibrant colors the Formovie may produce more matte color tones but the HDR10+ support helps to punch up picture quality a notch when desired.

It takes a bit of exploring and fiddling with the several picture modes, calibrations, and settings to nail a screen equivalent reproduction, but not by much.

Content such as Into the Spiderverse, Amazon’s Invincible, and Max’s Harley Quinn animated show really pop with the Formovie’s wide color gamut. The Formovie also does very well when rendering video game images while also keeping FPS high.

Formovie Gaming

The downside of gaming on the Formovie is when boosting games with its motion-smoothing MEMC technology which presents an exceptionally smooth image but introduces noticeable input lag.

Acknowledging that using the Formovie paired with a dedicated projector screen plays a big part in image reproduction quality, a flat unobstructed wall should help maintain the projector’s quality as well.

With the Formovie coming in at $3K, adding another couple hundred may or may not be in the cards for an add-on sound system, but thankfully the onboard system holds up well.

Formovie Side Speaker

The two 15w speakers tuned by Bowers & Wilkins produced a robust bassy sound and particle sounds are distinguishable just above 70% sound for most content that doesn’t include Michael Bay-like action or explosions. Fortunately, for audiophiles, there is also support for external audio set ups.

The entire Formovie package offers a great viewing experience, except for the noticeable fan noise during quieter scenes. I live in a home that’s constantly running the AC, but when the climate settles and the house is quiet, the projector can be heard throughout the viewing experience depending on the scene.

Formovie Lasers

The fan noise seems to be independent of the settings, content, or position of the projector, and ramps up from near quiet to annoying rumba randomly.

Summary

At $3K+ the Formovie offers the high-end experience the price tag it accompanies with an intuitive interface powered with Android TV 11 alongside. As the company works out its out of the box Netflix situation, most customers will appreciate the bevy of other streaming content at their fingertips that includes Disney+, HBO, Hulu, and YouTube.

While there are other options in and around the same price as the Formovie, few offer the same sleek packaging or feature set. Getting past the fan noise, the lack of Netflix support, out of the box color calibration, the Formovie is worthy contender for purchase among the LG’s, Sony’s and Samsung’s of the industry.

Windows 11: New System Components settings page discovered in preview build 25926

On the 9th of August, 2023, Microsoft rolled out a new Windows 11 test build—25926, in the Canary Channel for enthusiasts. This build brought with it a clandestine feature, a new “System Components” settings page, which did not find a mention in the official release notes.

Interestingly, this elusive System Components page was discovered by Windows enthusiast PhantomOfEarth on Twitter. It is hidden by default but can be forced into visibility, thanks to the ViVeTool app, a third-party tool.

Getting Deeper into the Page

The hidden page is a platform where you can manage various system components such as drivers, services, and stock apps. Interestingly, it was noticed that each app installed through the System Components settings page would appear twice – both on the component’s page and on the “Apps > Installed apps” panel. This discovery was made during a test where Minecraft Launcher was installed.

As this new feature is still in development, it raises some intriguing questions. Will the apps still be visible under “Apps” in Settings once the setting is fully established? Furthermore, what is the purpose of these duplicate entries in the meantime?

Enabling the Hidden Settings

Although Microsoft has hidden the System Components setting and new Snipping Tool features, suggesting that they are currently being tested in an undisclosed environment, it is still possible for technology enthusiasts to enable them on their PCs. This can be accomplished by utilizing the ViVeTool app.

Execute the command vivetool /enable /id:44702824 in the command console, and voila! You are in.

Since the said features are under scrutiny, not all Canary insiders have direct access to them. However, thanks to the ViVeTool application, any eager user can start playing around with them for feedback or learn about upcoming features in Windows 11.

In conclusion, there’s significantly more to Windows 11 build 25926 than meets the eye. As the potentially powerful yet surreptitious System Components settings page continues to gather attention, it might just be the opening act of a series of exciting developments in the future builds of Windows 11.

Via MSPoweruser

Can’t Add Friends on Minecraft? Here’s What You Can do

Recently, we have received numerous complaints from our readers about Minecraft not adding friends and other issues relating to friend requests. The problem can affect the ability to enjoy multiplayer, so it’s important to fix it.

Due to the importance of this issue, it is essential to understand the potential causes and how to mitigate them, and that’s what we’ll do in this article.

Why can’t I add friends on Minecraft?

  • Not having the correct username of the friend you’re trying to add can cause problems because usernames are case-sensitive.
  • If you and your friend are playing different versions of Minecraft, it might prevent you from adding each other.
  • In case either of you has strict privacy settings, it could prevent friend requests from being sent or received on Minecraft.
  • Poor internet connection or server problems can cause the inability to add new friends or receive requests from other players.
  • If you or your friend have issues with your Mojang account, you won’t be able to add one another.
  • Server issues like downtime or routine maintenance can cause limitations regarding adding friends or receiving requests.
  • Interference from other games are apps on the device can cause issues with Minecraft’s functionality.

What can I do if I can’t add friends on Minecraft?

Before attempting any troubleshooting steps for fixing the problem, go through the checks highlighted below:

  • Restart Minecraft and your device to resolve temporary glitches affecting the friend-adding process.
  • Ensure you have the correct and case-sensitive username of the friend you want to add.
  • Verify that you and the friend you want to add are playing on compatible platforms to avoid platform restrictions on cross-platform limitations.
  • Power cycle your router or modem or connect to a stable internet network to resolve network-related problems.
  • Ensure both you and your friend have functioning Mojang accounts without any issues.
  • If you or the other user have blocked each other in the past, unblock each other to allow friend requests.
  • Check the status of the Minecraft server for any maintenance or downtime.

1. Update the Minecraft client on your PC

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Microsoft Store, and click to open it.
  2. Tap the Library.
  3. Select the Get updates option and select Update all to allow all your installed apps, including Minecraft, to update.

Updating Minecraft will fix compatibility issues and ensure both players are running the same versions.

Check our detailed guide on updating Minecraft on Windows 11 PCs if you encounter any issues with the steps above.

2. Invite friends via game tags

  1. Open the Minecraft client on your device.
  2. Select a world to play in.
  3. After loading your desired world, navigate to the game Settings.
  4. Click the Invite to game button, then tap on Add a Friend.
  5. Enter your friend’s gamer tag and click the Send the invite option.

This is a simple workaround, but it should help you if you’re having issues with adding new friends.

As you can see, although this can be a daunting error, it can be fixed by using our solutions in a matter of minutes, so be sure to try them all.

In conclusion, you can check our guide on ways to fix Minecraft Launcher not working on Windows 11. Likewise, you can read our detailed guide on what to do if Minecraft login isn’t working on your PC.

What solution worked for you? Let us know in the comments section below.

Troubleshooting Microsoft Account Verification Code Issues: A Comprehensive Guide

In today’s digital age, our reliance on online services has grown immensely. One such service that many of us use on a daily basis is Microsoft’s suite of products, across Windows 11, Microsoft 365, and Xbox. From email to cloud storage, Microsoft offers a plethora of services that require secure access through verification codes. However, there are times when these codes might cause issues, leading to frustration and confusion. In this guide, we’ll delve into the various troubleshooting methods to address verification code issues that include using Microsoft.com/link.

Understanding Microsoft Account Verification Codes

Verification codes play a crucial role in securing your Microsoft account. They act as a second layer of protection, ensuring that only authorized users can access your account. These codes are typically sent to your registered email or phone number and must be entered before you can successfully log in. While this extra security is essential, it can sometimes lead to issues that prevent you from accessing your account.

Common Verification Code Issues and Solutions

verification code issues

1. Not Receiving the Verification Code

If you’re not receiving the verification code, it could be due to various reasons such as incorrect contact information, network issues, or email filtering. To resolve this:

  • Double-check your registered email and phone number.
  • Verify your spam or junk folder for the code.
  • Ensure you have a stable internet connection.

2. Code Expired Too Quickly

Verification codes have an expiration period for security reasons. If the code expires too quickly:

  • Make sure your device’s time and date settings are accurate.
  • Request a new code if the previous one expires.

3. Entering Incorrect Code Repeatedly

Entering the wrong code multiple times can result in access denial. To rectify this:

  • Double-check the code before entering.
  • Request a new code if you’re unsure about the current one.

4. Code Already Used

If the code you’re entering has already been used, someone might have accessed your account. In such cases:

  • Change your password immediately.
  • Enable two-factor authentication for added security.

Troubleshooting Verification Code Issues

verification code issues
https://microsoft.com/link used to verify codes 

 

1. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Sometimes, cache and cookies can interfere with the verification process. To resolve this:

2. Update Email and Phone Settings

Outdated or incorrect contact details can lead to verification issues. Follow these steps to update your information:

3. Disable VPN or Proxy

Using a VPN or proxy can sometimes prevent the verification code from reaching your device. Try troubleshooting this by temporarily disabling these services and try again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use the same verification code multiple times? No, verification codes are typically one-time-use codes for security reasons. Once used, they expire and cannot be used again.

2. How often should I update my contact information? It’s advisable to review and update your contact information whenever there are changes to ensure that you receive verification codes without any disruptions.

3. Can I choose not to use verification codes for my Microsoft account? While it’s recommended for security reasons, you may be able to disable two-factor authentication, but it’s not advisable due to the increased risk to your account.

4. What should I do if I suspect unauthorized access to my account? If you suspect unauthorized access, change your password immediately, and review your recent account activities. Enable two-factor authentication for enhanced security.

5. Are there alternative methods for account verification? Yes, Microsoft may offer alternative methods such as sending verification codes to a backup email or using an authenticator app for added convenience and security.

So, while verification codes add an extra layer of security to your Microsoft account, they can occasionally lead to issues that hinder your access. By understanding the common problems and implementing the troubleshooting methods mentioned above, you can navigate through verification code issues effectively and regain access to your account without unnecessary hassle.

Update an Outlook Invite Without Notifying Everyone [How to]

Many users wonder how to update an Outlook invite without notifying everyone because they don’t want to send notifications after making small adjustments to the original meeting.

We’re pleased to say this is possible, and today, we will show you several ways to do that.

How do I update an Outlook meeting without notifying everyone?

1. Use the Save feature

  1. Locate your meeting in Outlook and open it.
  2. Make the desired changes.
  3. Now click the Save button and click Close.

After doing that, the meeting will be updated without alerting the attendees.

If you want to learn more about Outlook meetings, check our guide on how to add BCC to meeting invite.

Note icon NOTE
Remember that this method works only if you change the meeting note, and it won’t work if you change any other information.

2. Change Send Update to Attendees settings

  1. Locate your meeting and add a new attendee.
  2. Save the changes.
  3. Send Update to Attendees window will appear. Select Send updates only to added or deleted attendees.
  4. Click OK.
  5. If this option isn’t available, you might have to use Save changes and send update option, and then select the option to send updates only to deleted or added attendees.

After doing that, only the added attendee will be informed about the meeting.

In case you’re organizing or attending a meeting, we have a guide on how to check meeting attendees, so be sure to check it out.

Note icon NOTE
This feature isn’t available for Outlook for Web because it doesn’t send updates to all attendees by default.

3. Disable shared calendar improvements

  1. In Outlook, go to File.
  2. Next, select Account Settings and then choose Account Settings again.
  3. Double-click the account you use.
  4. Choose More Settings and then Advanced.
  5. Uncheck Turn on shared calendar improvements.
  6. Save changes.

Does forwarding an Outlook invite notify everyone?

No, only the meeting organizer will be informed if you choose to forward an invite.

As you can see, although it’s not as straightforward to update Outlook meetings without sending an update, these methods are still possible. Remember that these methods won’t work in Outlook for the Web or in some versions of Outlook.

In case you’re curious, we have a guide on how to cancel Outlook meetings without sending a notification, so you might want to check it out if you need more information.

While the meeting feature is incredibly useful, it does have problems. However, we already showed you how to fix Outlook Meetings issues in one of our previous guides, so be sure to check it out.

What method do you use to change meeting information without sending an update? Share it with us in the comments section below.

2 Ways to Search for Emails With an Empty Subject Line

Searching for emails with an empty subject line could be tricky and time-consuming, but this guide can help. We will explore two methods, the Instant search feature and the Advanced search option, to quickly search for emails with blank subject lines, making better email organization possible.

What does it mean when an email has no subject?

When you receive an email with no subject line, it means the sender either forgot or didn’t mention the description of the email’s content.

The Subject field in an email tells you the purpose or context of the email to the recipients before you read it, so it is an important part of email etiquette.

How do I search inbox by subject line?

  1. Press the Windows key, type outlook, and click Open.Outlook search for emails with empty subject line
  2. Go to the Outlook Search dialog box, click the drop-down menu & mention the subject line in the Subject field. OUTLOOK_Instant search
  3. You can add the email address of the sender or recipient, folder path, attachments, or date to refine the search.
  4. Once done, click Search to get instant results.

You can sift through the email messages listed in the result and find the ones you are looking for.

If you are facing issues like Inbox not showing recent emails, we recommend you read this informative guide to refresh and get the latest email messages in your mailbox.

How do I search for a blank subject line in Outlook?

1. Use the Instant Search feature

  1. Press the Windows key, type outlook, and click Open.Outlook search for emails with empty subject line
  2. Locate the Search bar from the top of the window, and click on the drop-down menu to refine your search.OUTLOOK_Instant search
  3. The drop-down menu has several options, including Search In, Attachments, From, Body, Received, Subject, and To.
    • Search In – Select any folder options, including Current Folder, Subfolders, Current Mailbox (Spam folder & Junk folder), All Mailboxes, & All Outlook Items to refine the search.
    • Attachments – Mention if the email has an attachment
    • From – Enter the email address of the sender
    • Body – Content in the email body
    • Received – Date on which you received the email
    • Subject – Mention the subject line
    • To – Enter the email address of the recipient
  4. Since you are looking for emails without a subject line, you can skip the email Subject field but enter other details like the sender’s or recipient’s email address & date, then click Search.

Once the search is completed, you can get emails without subject lines listed from all the email addresses in all the folders, including the Spam folder & Junk folder. However, this method doesn’t always work, so follow the next method for precise results.

2. Use the Advanced Search feature

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + F to open the Advanced Find dialog box.
  2. On the Advanced Find window, click the Browse button.OUTLOOK_Browse
  3. Now on the Select Folder(s) window, select the folder or folders you want to search for the email. You can also choose the Search subfolders option. Once done, click OK.Search folder window
  4. On the Messages tab, you can also mention the email address in the fields like From and Sent to narrow down the search.Messages tab  search for emails with empty subject line
  5. Switch to the More Choices tab, and click Categories.More Choices tab
  6. Now, select a category, and click OK.OUTLOOK_nCategory
  7. Next, in the More Choices tab, you can also mention details for options like Only items that are, Only items with, Whose importance is, Only items which, and Match case.
  8. You can mention the size of the email in the Size field
  9. Switch to the Advanced tab, go to Define more criteria, for the Field dropdown menu, select the field, and add a Condition and Value. Click Add to List.Advanced tab, go to Define more criteria search for emails with empty subject line
  10. Click Find Now.Find now
  11. Once complete, you will get the list of emails without subject lines from the selected email address.

With the Advanced Search option, you can also find folder location on Outlook to get its full path within the folder hierarchy.

So, these are methods you can follow to sift through a large volume of messages and search for emails with empty subject lines on Outlook.

If you think your Outlook emails are disappearing, we advise you to check out this guide to find the relevant solutions.

Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.

How to use Edge’s newest Web Content Filtering feature

While Edge is not the most popular browser in the world, Microsoft makes sure to keep it updated with some incredible features that only make it run faster. For example, a much darker mode is coming to Edge in future updates. This will make it the perfect browser for work and school projects.

Plus, Bing Chat is also on Edge, and the AI tool is probably one of the most performant ones out there. Its Windows counterpart, Copilot, will arrive on Windows 11 later this year. Although, you can already use it if you’re in the Windows Insider Program.

But coming back to Edge, Microsoft makes sure to integrate the browser with other Microsoft products. For example, you’ll soon be able to use the Teams chat while browsing on Edge, without having to go back and forth between apps.

And, starting in September, you’ll be able to use Edge’s newest Web Content Filtering feature, which will allow you to monitor and filter certain content on the Edge browser. This feature will make it perfect for IT admins and school managers to control the Edge browsers on their local network. And guess what? It’s not hard to enable it.

How to enable Edge’s Web Content Filtering feature

In Microsoft Intune, you’ll be able to set up different policies for different groups when it comes to browsing on Edge. You’ll also be able to name exceptions from these policies by using the allow-list and block-list policies.

  1. In Microsoft Intune Admin Center, go to Devices, and select the local network you want to enable the Web Content Filtering policies on Edge.
  2. Once you’re there, configure your Web Content Filtering policies under the Configuration Settings panel.
  3. When you’re done, you can review them and then save them by clicking the Review + save button.Web Content Filtering edge

Microsoft says this feature will be rolling out in September and it will be very important in schools settings.

To ensure schools can stay safe with internet content, we’re adding category-based Web Content Filtering solution built right into Edge. It ensures students are in a safe environment not only in the school network but also even when they are outside of a school network.

Microsoft

What do you think about it? Let us know your opinion.

Excel Keeps Crashing: 5 Simple Ways to Fix

Excel crashing is a problem that many individuals complain about and have struggled with due to its persistence. It renders the app useless and makes the files inaccessible.

Hence, the looming question remains what to do if Excel keeps crashing? Thus, we recommend you read this guide, which will provide steps for fixing the error message.

What causes Excel to keep crashing?

  • Working with large or complex spreadsheets that contain numerous formulas, charts, and data can cause Excel to crash.
  • Third-party add-ins or poorly coded macros installed on Excel can make it unstable, causing crashes when they conflict with the application.
  • If your Excel lacks memory, RAM, CPU power, or disk space, it may struggle to handle your tasks, resulting in crashes.
  • An outdated version of Excel or running the app on an outdated operating system can cause compatibility issues and crashes.
  • Incompatible or outdated graphics drivers can trigger Excel to crash when using features like charts, graphs, or other visual elements.
  • Problems with MS Office installation can affect its apps, including Excel, causing it to crash.
  • Working with complex conditional Excel formatting rules can cause Excel to work beyond its resource constraints, leading to a crash.
  • Sometimes printing issues can cause Excel crashes when printing.

Why does Excel crashes after opening a file?

  • If the file relies on external data connections that are no longer available or have changed, it can lead to Excel files not opening.
  • Corrupt file in Excel leads to unexpected shutdowns, file transfer errors, or software glitches.
  • The file might have been created or saved in a newer version of Excel that is incompatible with your version, causing instability.
  • Add-ins interference with the file you’re trying to use, or open can cause Excel to crash upon opening.
  • Opening a large Excel file with extensive formulas, data, or charts can overload Excel’s resources and lead to crashes.
  • File corruption can cause this issue as well, so be sure to fix corrupted Excel files.

How do I fix Excel if it keeps crashing randomly?

Go through the following checks before trying any advanced troubleshooting steps:

  • Restart your computer to troubleshoot any system process interfering with Microsoft Excel.
  • Disable background programs and third-party applications consuming system resources, which could cause Excel to crash.
  • Perform a clean boot to allow selective startup with minimal drivers and services, stopping them from impeding Excel.
  • Simplify or optimize your formulas because extremely complex or circular formulas can strain Excel’s resources.
  • Ensure your computer meets the recommended system requirements to eliminate any compatibility issues.
  • Install pending updates for your Windows operating system to fix bugs and download patches to improve performance.
  • Update the graphics drivers on your PC.
  • Perform a System File Checker scan to fix corrupt system files affecting the Excel client.

1. Start Excel in Safe Mode and disable Excel Add-Ins

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type following and click OK: excel.exe /safe
  2. Click on File in the top menu bar, then click on Options from the menu on the left.
  3. Tap on Add-in on the right, select Excel Add-ins, then tap Go.
  4. Uncheck the boxes next to the faulty Add-Ins and click OK to save the changes.
  5. Restart Excel and check if the problem persists.

Starting Excel in Safe Mode helps with interference from third-party apps and services running on the computer in normal mode.

Likewise, disabling the problematic Add-ins will fix any issues with corrupt add-ins causing MS Excel to crash.

2. Repair Microsoft Office

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type the control panel, and click OK.
  2. Click on Programs and Features.
  3. Right-click on Microsoft Office and click on Change from the drop-down.
  4. Select the Quick Repair option in the new window, then click Repair.
  5. If Quick Repair can’t fix it, select Online Repair.
  6. Restart your computer and check if the problem persists.

Repairing Microsoft Office will fix any missing or corrupt app files that can cause Excel to crash randomly or when opening a file. It may also fix access issues with Excel.

Check our guide on adding the Run command to the Start menu in Windows 11 in case you plan to use Run dialog more often in the future.

3. Disable the Hardware Graphics Acceleration

  1. Launch Excel, click on Files in the top menu bar, then select Options from the menu on the left.
  2. Click on Advanced.
  3. Select Display, check the box for Disable hardware graphics acceleration, and click OK to save the changes.
  4. Restart Excel to see if there are any changes in how fast it runs.

Disabling Hardware Graphics Acceleration improves the computer’s speed and influences its response time when using Excel. It will fix performance issues and graphics glitches that can cause Excel to crash.

4. Download the latest updates for Excel

  1. Launch Excel and click on Files in the top-right corner.
  2. Click on Account from the menu on the left, click Update Options, then tap on Update Now.
  3. If any update is available, it will automatically install it.
  4. Restart your PC and check if Excel works better.

Updating the Excel client will fix bugs that may be causing issues with its performance and install the latest patches that will resolve most issues.

5. Reinstall Excel

  1. Open the Settings app using Windows key + I shortcut.
  2. Select Apps and navigate to Installed apps.
  3. Locate Microsoft Office on the list, click the more button and select Uninstall.
  4. Follow the steps on the screen to complete the process.
  5. Once the Office is removed, install it again.

This is a drastic solution, but it can be used as a last resort if you’re having issues with Excel. Elsewhere, if you’re unable to launch your Excel sheets because of the personal.xlsb being locked for editing, we have a fix for that.

Lastly, you may be interested in our article about fixing Microsoft Excel if it can access files.

If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section.

Legacy Boot is Greyed Out? Fix it in Just 3 Simple Steps

Legacy Boot is the boot process is used by the BIOS firmware to initialize hardware devices on the system. However, if the Legacy boot is greyed out, selecting and using this option is impossible.

However, if you want to use dual-boot on your computer, it’s necessary to enable this feature properly. Thus, this article will discuss the causes of this problem and show you the ways to fix it.

Why is Legacy boot greyed out?

  • When secure boot is enabled, the Legacy boot option might be disabled, as it conflicts with the secure boot mechanism.
  • If your computer runs in UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) mode, the Legacy boot option may be unavailable in BIOS.
  • In case your system lacks Compatibility Support Module (CSM), or it’s not enabled, the Legacy boot option might be inaccessible.
  • The Legacy boot might be greyed out in the BIOS because it is incompatible with some newer hardware components.
  • An outdated BIOS or firmware might not support Legacy boot or could have bugs preventing the option from being accessible. If that’s the case, you might have to update BIOS on your PC.

What do I do if the Legacy boot is greyed out?

We recommend you go through the following preliminary checks to see if you can fix the problem:

  • Power cycle the PC to drain its power and check if that helps with the problem.
  • Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates. If available, check your BIOS version and download the latest update.
  • Ensure your hardware components are compatible with Legacy Boot.

1. Disable Secure Boot

  1. Right-click on the Start button and select the Power button from the menu.
  2. Press and hold the Shift key, then click Restart.
  3. After the PC boots into the Recovery menu. Go to Troubleshoot and click on Advanced options.
  4. Click on the UEFI Firmware Settings option, then select Restart to boot into the Startup Menu.
  5. In the Startup Menu, press F10 to open the BIOS Settings. It may prompt other options depending on your computer’s manufacturer.
  6. Use the right and left navigation keys to open the Boot options tab in the BIOS Utility.
  7. Use the up and down arrow keys to highlight the Secure boot option and press Enter to view more options.
  8. Select Disabled from the options.
  9. Press the F10 button to save the changes and disable Secure Boot.

Since Secure Boot can interfere with the functionality of the Legacy Boot, disabling it will help if the Legacy boot is greyed out.

2. Disable Platform Trusted Technology

  1. Repeat steps 1-3 to boot into the Windows Recovery Menu.
  2. Enter your BIOS utility.
  3. Use the right and left navigation keys to access the Security tab.
  4. Select the TPM State option and press Enter. If you don’t have the TPM option in the Security tab, find the PTT option.
  5. Select Disabled to turn off the TPM on your device, press F10 to save the change, and exit.

Disabling the Intel PTT feature will enable the Legacy Boot option and fix the greying-out issue in the system BIOS.

3. Disable Modern Standby

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type Notepad, and press Enter to open a new Notepad file.
  2. Copy and paste the following script into the Notepad file:
    Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
    [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power]
    "PlatformAoAcOverride"=dword:00000000
  3. Click on File in the top-left corner and select Save As.
  4. Enter the File name as Disable_Modern_Standby.reg, click the Save as type drop-down, select All files, and then click Save.
  5. Double-click on the Disable_Modern_Standby.reg file and click Yes when prompted by UAC.
  6. Restart your PC to apply the changes.

The steps above will disable the Modern Standby and fix any power mode interfering with the Legacy Boot option.

Read how to fix errors accessing the Registry if you run into issues with the steps above.

Alternatively, you can go through our guide on how to fix Legacy boot issues on Windows PCs. Likewise, read our detailed article on installing Windows 11 on Legacy BIOS in a few steps.

Should you have further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section.

RaiPlay Not Working with VPN? Do This! [Working]

A VPN can hide your real location and make it seem like you are in Italy, allowing you to access RaiPlay content from anywhere in the world.

But what happens when your VPN stops working with RaiPlay? 

You may encounter an error message that says The streaming of this content is available in Italy only. Or have a blank screen altogether.

gep location error message on RaiPlay
Geo-blocking error message on RaiPlay

Unfortunately, this prevents you from streaming your favorite shows. 

This means that RaiPlay has blocked the IP address of your VPN server and detected your use of a VPN.

Don’t worry, though. I’ve compiled a list of some easy fixes you can try to solve this problem and enjoy RaiPlay again with your VPN. 

Check them out below.

RaiPlay not working with VPN? Try This!

There are several reasons why your RaiPlay is not working with VPN. 

➡️ These include a wrong server connection, stored cookies, or a weak VPN.

But some quick steps can solve the issue and get you back to streaming on RaiPlay. 

Here they are.

1. Switch to a different Italian server

If you have issues watching RaiPlay with your VPN, it may be that the IP address you’re connected to has been blacklisted or blocked. 

Changing to a different server will give you a new IP address. If the new address isn’t blocked, you’ll get access to RaiPlay. For the best experience, we recommend getting a VPN with multiple Italian servers.

Here’s how to do that using CyberGhost

  1. Disconnect from the current VPN server.
disconnect from vpn
  1. Choose another Italian server from your VPN provider’s options.
cyberghost connected to rome italy
  1. Reconnect to the VPN using the new server.
  2. Launch RaiPlay and check if it is now functioning properly.
raiplay working with cyberghost connected

Note that you may need to try a few Italian servers in different locations to find the best one that works for you. 

2. Clear your browser cookies

Some streaming services use cookies to store information about your location. 

As a result, websites still identify your location as your home country, even with an active VPN.

However, clearing cookies and caches eliminates the stored information, browsing history, and location data.

 To clear your browser cookies on Chrome, simply follow these steps:

  1. Click on the three dots at the top right edge of your browser.
chrome options
  1. Go to More tools, and select Clear browsing data.
chrome settings>more tools
  1. Choose the time range from the drop-down list. Use All time to delete everything.
  1. Check the boxes for Cookies and Cached images and files.
chrome clear browsing data
  1. Click Clear data.
  2. Try opening Raiplay again. It should work by now. 
raiplay working

Apart from resolving issues with VPN, this fix can also enhance your browsing speed and secure your privacy on the internet.

Remember that I’ve used Chrome as an illustration, but you can follow similar steps on other popular browsers like Edge, Opera, or Firefox.

3. Change your DNS settings

Typically, your internet-connected device uses your ISP’s DNS servers to handle requests. 

But, if your ISP’s DNS servers are slow or not correctly configured for caching, it can result in slower connections. This can lead to interruptions with RaiPlay.

Some VPNs have their own private DNS servers. If you have a subscription to one of those, contact your provider to help locate them. Alternatively, you can use free DNS servers from reliable third parties.

Here’s how to change your DNS settings on your PC:

  1. Right-click the network icon (or the WiFi icon if you are connected to WiFi) in the taskbar notification area and select Network and Sharing Center.
  1. Select Change adapter options.
change adapter options
  1. Right-click on your TAP adapter and choose Properties.
network properties
  1. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
ipv4 properties
  1. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter the addresses you’ve obtained. In this case, we used Google’s DNS address.
use following DNS server addresses in Windows
  1. Repeat steps 3-5 for your physical network adapter, Ethernet or WiFi.
network properties
  1. Try reconnecting to RaiPlay again.
raiplay homepage

If you want free, safe DNS, I recommend Google or Cloudflare. Here are 2 reliable DNS addresses from them: 

➡️ Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4 

➡️ Cloudflare DNS:1 .1.1.1 or 1.0.0.1 

4. Reinstall your VPN

If your VPN app is corrupted or outdated, it may fail to hide your IP address or connect to your desired server.

A simple solution to try is doing a full reset of the VPN software. You can do this by uninstalling the VPN and then reinstalling it. 

Here is how to do it on Windows:

  1. Click the start button at the bottom left of your screen, search for the Control Panel, and open it.
control panel
  1. In the Control Panel, click on Uninstall a program under the Programs tab.
programs and features in windows
  1. You will then see a list of all the applications on your device. Find your VPN app alongside the TAP and TUN adapters.
  2. Right-click on the app and select Uninstall.
  3. In the new pop-up, select Yes.
  4. Complete the uninstallation process for the VPN app TAP and TUN drivers as well.
  5. Visit your provider’s website to download it again.
  6. Install the app by following the on-screen instructions of the install wizard.
  7. Log in with your credentials.
cyberghost login
  1. Connect to an Italian Server and try streaming on Raiplay again.
raiplay working with cyberghost vpn connected to italian server

This will also update your app to the latest version, ensuring you have the latest security features, bug fixes, and improvements for a smoother and safer VPN experience.

5. Change your VPN provider

If Raiplay is not working with VPN after trying the fixes above, the last resort is to switch to a different VPN provider. 

Some VPNs, especially free ones, may have IP leaks, DNS leaks, or fewer servers that are often overloaded. 

This can result in slower speeds and Railpay suspecting and blacklisting the server.

Essentially, I recommend CyberGhost for its market standard in speed and numerous Italian servers. 

 Here are the steps to use it on RaiPlay:

  1. Subscribe to a CyberGhost plan and download the software compatible with your device.
  2. Install the Cyberghost app. 
  3. Log in with your credentials.
  1. Select and connect to an Italian server.
  1. Once connected to the server, try streaming on RaiPlay again.

CyberGhost works fine with Raiplay, but before tying it out, remember to clear your browser cookies. 

Also, change your DNS settings to direct your DNS requests from your ISP’s DNS servers to the more secure ones I recommend above.

Does RaiPlay block VPNs?

Yes, RaiPlay blocks VPNs as part of its geo-restriction policy. 

So, if you try to access the platform from outside Italy with a blocked VPN, you will likely see an error message that says streaming is allowed only for connections from Italy.

This is because RaiPlay doesn’t have the necessary licenses to broadcast its content internationally.

How does RaiPlay detect my VPN?

RaiPlay detects your VPN using various techniques such as IP filtering, deep packet inspection, and browser fingerprinting.

These methods allow them to look at various factors, such as your IP address, your DNS requests, your browser settings, and your network traffic.

If any of these factors indicate that you’re using a VPN, RaiPlay will block your connection and show you an error message.

For example:

  •  If your IP address belongs to a known VPN server or a data center, it will blacklist and deny you access.
  • Also, when your DNS requests don’t match your IP location, it will suspect you’re using a VPN and block you. 
  • If your browser settings reveal that you’re using a proxy or a VPN extension, RaiPlay will fingerprint you and prevent you from streaming.
  • Lastly, if your network traffic shows signs of encryption or tunneling, RaiPlay will inspect it using the deep packet inspection and stop it.

Does RaiPlay work with a VPN?

Yes, RaiPlay works with a VPN if you use a reliable and reputable VPN service that can evade its blocks. 

A good RaiPlay VPN will have an extensive network of servers in Italy, a fast and consistent performance, strong encryption and security features, and a user-friendly interface.

However, not all VPNs work with RaiPlay. Some VPNs are too slow, weak, or outdated to bypass RaiPlay’s blocks. 

These VPNs will either fail to connect to RaiPlay or get detected and blocked by RaiPlay.

Therefore, choosing a VPN that works with RaiPlay is crucial.

To save you the hassle of searching for one, in the next section, I have compiled a list of the best RaiPlay VPNs that worked great for me.

Check them out!

Best VPNs for RaiPlay

So, I tested several top VPNs to access RaiPlay here from Nigeria. 

From these evaluations, I have compiled a list of the five best ones. 

My selection of these VPNs is based on the following set of criteria:

  • Works well with RaiPlay
  • Fast and reliable servers in Italy
  • High-quality streaming and no buffering
  • Unlimited bandwidth and data
  • Strong encryption and security
  • User-friendly apps and customer support
  • Money-back guarantee

Here’s my golden list.

CyberGhost – Overall best performance for RaiPlay

raiplay working with cyberghost vpn running

CyberGhost VPN is my top choice for streaming on RaiPlay. Connecting to one of its high-speed servers in Italy is just a few clicks away.

It has over 210 Italian servers in Milan and Rome, which gives you plenty of options to choose from. 

This means you’ll never have to worry about picking a crowded one! 

You’ll also enjoy unlimited bandwidth, fast VPN protocols like WireGuard®, and streaming-optimized servers that use 10 Gbps speeds in high-traffic locations.

That’s great for uninterrupted streaming on RaiPlay.

But there’s more. CyberGhost protects your online activity with its powerful 256-bit AES encryption, ensuring your sensitive data is safe from prying eyes and cybercriminals.

Also, its Kill Switch blocks all traffic if you get disconnected from the VPN until you can reconnect safely. 

This ensures your actual location is not revealed to RailPlay.

Additionally, with just one subscription, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously.

So, you can enjoy CyberGhost’s user-friendly VPN apps on all your devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick.

And if you ever need assistance, its friendly 24/7 Customer Support team is available via live chat or email to provide guided walkthroughs and help you.

✅ Pros:

  • Streaming servers that unblock RaiPlay 
  • Add-ons, including antivirus, data compression, and dedicated IPs
  • User-friendly interface 
  • Has a 45-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Issues with connecting after sleep mode or in China
  • Has customer support unavailable in some languages

CyberGhost

Fire up CyberGhost and never miss out on RaiPlay’s exclusive content!
Check price Visit website

ExpressVPN – Seamless 4K streaming without annoying delays

raiplay working with expressvpn running

ExpressVPN is another great choice for bypassing geo-restrictions on RaiPlay. It has several servers in Napoli, Cosenza, and Milan. So, you can always find an Italian server to rely on.

The attractive part is that it uses robust encryption like the 256-bit AES encryption and advanced leak protection to ensure your connection is secure while streaming.

Moreover, ExpressVPN offers a unique feature called MediaStreamer, which allows you to connect VPN protection to devices that do not support VPN connections natively. 

This includes smart TVs, gaming consoles, streaming media players, and other devices without VPN apps.

And it also works flawlessly on popular devices such as Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux.

Additionally, your streaming experience is further enhanced by its reliable and secure protocols, ensuring smooth playback without interruptions.

Taking your privacy seriously, ExpressVPN follows a strict no-logs policy and utilizes the TrustedServer feature, which wipes server data after each session.

To top it all off, it offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try it out and see if it suits your needs without any worries.

With ExpressVPN, streaming on RaiPlay becomes easy and worry-free, allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows without restrictions or privacy concerns.

✅ Pros:

  • Best leak protection on the market
  • Consistently fast and stable
  • Apps for all conceivable devices

❌ Cons:

  • Not the cheapest
  • Its servers occasionally get blacklisted due to its popularity
  • Only five device connections at a time

ExpressVPN

Keep up with everything on RaiPlay even outside Italy by spoofing location with ExpressVPN!
Check price Visit website

NordVPN – Best for privacy and security

With NordVPN, you can access over 60+ secure servers in Italy, making it easy to enjoy RaiPlay without any restrictions. 

But that’s just a tip, it offers a SmartPlay feature that helps bypass geographical blocks on streaming platforms.

Plus, you’ll get blazing-fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth for smooth HD or 4K streaming with no interruptions.

When it comes to security and privacy, NordVPN has you covered. It uses AES-256 encryption, a strong standard, to protect your data and identity. 

The kill switch automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing any accidental data leaks.

For added security, you can use the Double VPN feature, which routes your internet traffic through two separate servers, enhancing your privacy. 

NordVPN also offers user-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux, and it’s compatible with smart TVs, routers, and other devices.

The best part is that NordVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free. 

Give it a go and experience secure and uninterrupted streaming on RaiPlay with NordVPN.

✅ Pros:

  • Affordable monthly price
  • A high number of servers
  • Apps for Fire Stick and Android TV

❌ Cons:

  • Servers are fast, but apps are often sluggish
  • Complicated when using router setup

NordVPN

Upgrade to NordVPN for error-free, unlimited streaming on Raiplay!
Check price Visit website

PIA – Lightning-fast speed for streaming

With PIA, you’ll experience lightning-fast speeds with a wide selection of over 87 Italian servers to choose from. 

No more frustrating lags, buffering, and freezing, all thanks to its powerful 10 Gbps NextGen servers. This means you’ll enjoy seamless 4K streaming without annoying delays.

The best part is it offers unlimited bandwidth, so you can stream your favorite content on Railplay without worrying about data caps or restrictions.

Additionally, PIA employs strong encryption methods to keep your data secure to enhance your streaming sessions.

Plus, you can choose between 128-bit or 256-bit AES encryption ciphers, adding an extra layer of privacy and security.

With that, rest assured that your ISPs, third parties, or even RaiPlay cannot track your online activities.

For your convenience, PIA offers a Smart DNS feature, which allows you to change your virtual location directly from your Smart TV. 

Although it won’t encrypt or redirect your data, this feature ensures your connection speeds remain unaffected.

Alternatively, you can install the VPN directly on your router to secure your entire network and protect all your devices.

✅ Pros

  • Works with major streaming services
  • Excellent streaming speeds
  • Supports unlimited device connection

❌ Cons:

  • Live chat isn’t very responsive

PIA

Get PIA to catch all the Italian entertainment on RaiPlay in just a few clicks!
Check price Visit website

Surfshark – Excellent security at an affordable price

Surfshark offers excellent security at an affordable price, and it has two server locations in Italy – Milan and Rome. 

One of its standout features is the ability to have unlimited data and unrestricted bandwidth, allowing you to connect as many devices as you want simultaneously.

With Surfshark, you can stream on RaiPlay worry-free, with no data restrictions or caps. 

You’ll even enjoy your favorite shows and movies in high-definition or even 4K quality without any interruptions.

When it comes to ensuring your online security and privacy, Surfshark uses top-notch protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard, all equipped with the powerful AES-256-GCM algorithm. 

This advanced encryption keeps your data safe and hidden from prying eyes, and the best part is that it doesn’t slow down your connection – in fact, it’s even faster than using AES-256 alone!

Also, Surfshark provides a kill switch feature that automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. 

This ensures that your data remains private and your identity stays protected.

Additionally, you can enjoy features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware to give you a clean and uninterrupted streaming experience.

With user-friendly apps available for various platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and more, setting up and using Surfshark on your preferred devices is a breeze.

So, why wait? Enjoy secure and private streaming with Surfshark’s impressive features and affordable pricing.

✅ Pros:

  • Connect unlimited devices
  • Excellent streaming speeds
  • Extra features like virus protection

❌ Cons:

  • Inconsistent P2P performance

Surfshark

Get access to Rome & Milan servers to pass geo-restrictions and watch RaiPlay anywhere!
Check price Visit website

Summary

RaiPlay is a fantastic streaming service that offers a lot of Italian content for free. 

However, if you want to watch it outside of Italy, you need a VPN to bypass the geo-restrictions. 

Unfortunately, not all VPNs work with RaiPlay, as the service blocks VPNs it detects.

So when RaiPlay is not working with VPN, you can try deleting your cookies, changing your server, or upgrading to a better VPN. 

With the VPNs I mentioned above, you can enjoy RaiPlay from anywhere in the world without any hassle. 

How to Easily Downgrade Firefox to a Previous Version

It is certainly possible to downgrade Firefox to a previous version safely. Well, there can be many reasons why you want to do so. You might be facing some issues with the new build or you simply don’t like the new UI changes.

The guide to restoring the previous version of the browser is simple. Just download the older build, install it, and enjoy your browsing. But, you will also need to disable the automatic updates so that you could avoid upgrading to the newest build in the future. However, it’s not officially recommended.

Mozilla Firefox is one of the privacy-centric browsers which offers enhanced tracking protection, private browsing, anti-phishing protection, and more. But you wish to stay on the older build because Firefox is not loading pages after the update and is throwing issues like screen tearing, Tabs crashing, or simply cosmetic changes like border-radius not working issue.

Alternatively, you can also switch to a completely new browser like Opera if you think Firefox is throwing troubles or even downgrading isn’t helpful. It’s faster, reliable, and includes so many built-in features like VPN and adblocker.

 Opera

Opera

Ready for a Change? Opera is the smart choice for a more efficient browsing experience!
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Can we downgrade the Firefox version?

Yes, you can degrade the current version of the Firefox browser to an older one. There can be several reasons why one would want to roll back.

  • New UI changes aren’t really welcome.
  • Compatibility issues.
  • The older version works better with add-ons.
  • The new build is throwing troubles like any specific website slows down the browser or isn’t opening.
  • Unwanted new features.

It’s worth mentioning that you can revert to an older version of Firefox but it’s not recommended. Mozilla clearly states on its support page that downgrading to an older version can invite unknown vulnerabilities.

The developers do not support the older versions so you will be left with an insecure version.

How do I download an older version of Firefox?

Going back to a previous version of Firefox is easy. You just have to go to the directory of Firefox builds and download the version.

Below you can find detailed instructions on how you can download the older build and install it on your Windows system.

  1. Go to the Firefox repository of older builds and releases. You will find many builds, some even dating back to 5-6 years. But don’t choose the oldest ones as they can invite scams and risks.

    Downgrade Firefox to previous version
  2. Click on the version you wish to download. Here, we are taking the example of version 114.
  3. Next up, choose the right system architecture – 32-bit or 64-bit that matches your Windows system.

    Firefox previous version
  4. In case you don’t know how to check the system architecture, then tap on the Menu button, provided at the top-right corner of the Firefox toolbar. Click on Help and select About Firefox.

    A new window will open that will tell you the system architecture.
    Firefox browser version
  5. Choose the language and region.

    Firefox older version 32-bit
  6. Finally, download the .exe file of the build.
    Firefox older version 64-bit

This is how you successfully download the older Firefox version on your system.

How do I install the older Firefox version?

Now that you have downloaded the previous version of Firefox on your Windows device, it’s time to install the version.

Follow the below steps in order to roll back to the previous version of Mozilla Firefox. Before following the installation guide, make sure to uninstall the latest version of Firefox from your system.

  1. Double-click on the downloaded Firefox Installer .exe file and follow the wizard.
  2. Set up window will open with options Standard and Custom. By default, the Standard option is selected. Click Next.
    Firefox older version installation
  3. Select the location where you want to install the Firefox older version.
  4. Once you select the location, Firefox will ask for your confirmation.

You can check the update version by going into the Help section under Settings.

Firefox older version successfully installed

Once you have installed the older version, Firefox will show you this warning. Click on ‘Create New Profile’ in order to get started.

Firefox older version installation

Important – Here is one crucial step while installing an older version of the browser. You have to disable auto-updates first, otherwise, Firefox will download to the latest version automatically.

How to disable auto updates?

Go to the Menu provided on the top-right corner of the Firefox toolbar, select Settings, and under General Settings scroll down to find Firefox Updates option. Deselect Automatic installed updates and select “Check for updates but let you choose to install them.”

Disable automatic updates on Firefox

While this option will look for the newest updates, it will not install them without your confirmation.

Can I keep my bookmarks and settings when downgrading Firefox?

Downgrading to a previous version of Firefox doesn’t affect your bookmarks. You can revert to a previous version of Firefox by keeping your profile intact.

However, it’s still recommended to back up your bookmarks and settings before downgrading to avoid any kind of mishap.

Here’s how you can do it –

  1. Open Firefox and click on the “Bookmarks” menu.
  2. Click on Manage Bookmarks or press Ctrl+Shift+O
  3. In the Library window, click on “Import and backup” and select “Backup…”
  4. Choose a location to save the backup .json file and click “Save.”
  5. To restore your bookmarks and settings after downgrading, follow the same steps but select “Restore” instead of “Backup.”

So, this was a simple guide on how you can downgrade Firefox to your favorite version. If the problem still persists, you can uninstall this version and try any other recent version from the directory and follow the steps again.

Alternatively, Mozilla also suggests that some problems can be solved with the help of the Firefox Refresh feature. it restores the browser to the default state while saving the essential information. This also comes as an alert while uninstalling the browser.

Firefox Refresh feature


Let us know in the comments if you are able to roll back.

Windows License Only Allows One Language? How to Add More

Given how many computers are in the world and the Windows operating system’s market share, it would be wrong to assume it only comes in one language. Windows 11 is a multilanguage OS. However, some versions of Windows licenses only allow one language.

You need to be careful, especially if you don’t speak the default display language shipped with your Windows license. You could end up stuck with an OS you don’t understand. If you find yourself in this predicament, we’re here to help you.

What does license supports only one display language mean?

Your OS supports only one language, and it not changing the display language is different. You can add more languages for the latter, but if your Windows version only allows one language, it is locked to the license and cannot be changed. 

The main reason for this restriction is to prevent you from getting a cheaper license for a specific language version.

However, some little-known factors could provide a loophole and enable you to change your display language on your Windows device. These include:

  • Location – If the location on your device does not reflect your current status, changing it can allow you to update your Windows display language.
  • Trial version – If you were in the testing phase of Windows to get a feel of the OS before fully committing, when activating your copy, you can change the display language.

How do I enable multiple languages in Windows?

1. Add language packs

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Select Time & language on the left pane then click on the Language and region option.going language and region windows 11 settings
  3. Click the Add a language button.add-language cant change display language windows 11
  4. Select your preferred language and press Next.
  5. Check the box for Set as my Windows display language then press Install.
  6. Restart your PC to effect the changes.

2. Change your region settings

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Click on Time & language then select the Language and region page on the right side.going language and region windows 11 settings
  3. Under Country or region, update your location if applicable.
  4. Next, go back to the Administrative language settings.
  5. Select Change system locale button then press OK.
  6. Specify the new language, check the Beta: Use Unicode UTF-8 for worldwide language support box and then click the OK button.
  7. Restart your PC and try changing your display language again.

 3. Disable sync for language settings

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Click on Accounts then select the Windows backup page on the right side.
  3. Toggle the Remember my preferences option on.
  4. Clear the Language preferences option.
  5. You should now be able to change your display language.

4. Perform a clean install

  1. Create a bootable USB drive.
  2. Connect the bootable installation media USB flash drive to your PC.
  3. Restart your PC and enter BIOS by pressing Del or F2 during the boot.
  4. Set your flash drive as the default boot device and save changes.
  5. Press any key to enter setup when asked and click Next.windows-11-reinstall
  6. Click on Install now to proceed.windows-11-reinstall
  7. Enter your product key or choose I don’t have a product key.
  8. Select the version that you want to install and click Next.
  9. Accept the terms of service and click Next.windows-11-reinstall
  10. Select the Custom install option.
  11. Select the Primary drive and click Next. Double-check to make sure that you’ve selected the correct drive.
  12. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

If you’d like to restore your files, use Windows.old files, but don’t wait too long because they have an expiry date.

Hopefully, you’ve been able to add more display languages to your Windows device with the methods listed above.

Let us know of any additional comments you may have on this topic below.

Outlook Calendar is Not Color Coded? How to Enable It

Organization comes in many forms; for some, it involves color coding your events on your Outlook calendar. This is not only a playful way of setting schedules but also a way to help you remember important dates.

The only issue is that sometimes, your Outlook calendar may not be color-coded, or the colors are not working. If so, this is how to navigate through this issue.

Why is my Outlook calendar not showing color categories?

If color categories are enabled, you should see them by default when viewing your calendar. However, if it’s not working, below are some possible reasons behind it:

  • You’re using a third-party add-in – Some third-party add-ins that display calendars have their own settings and can often override the default settings from Microsoft.
  • Outdated app – If your Outlook application has not been updated in a while, this could be the issue causing your calendar not to be color coded.
  • Unsupported version – It is possible that even though you’re using a newer version of Outlook, your calendar may still not show color-coded categories because it’s an incompatible version.
  • Missing color categories – If you don’t see any color categories in your calendar view, then it’s likely because they’ve been disabled, missing, or deleted.
  • Virus infection – We all know the capabilities of viruses whenever they take control of your system, so this may be one of those times a virus is altering how things work.
  • Corrupt data file – The data file that stores your Outlook calendar settings may have been corrupted or is no longer available on your computer. It’s either because it was deleted or moved to another location.
  • Insufficient permissions – If your work or school manages your account, your Outlook calendar color sync is probably failing because you don’t have enough permissions.

How do I enable color categories in Outlook calendar?

Begin by checking off the following preliminary steps before any technical troubleshooting:

  • Ensure your Outlook application is the latest version.
  • If you have multiple accounts configured on your computer, ensure you have activated the correct account.
  • Check whether your Outlook version supports color categories. IMAP accounts do not have this feature.
  • Get in touch with your administrator to ensure you have all the requisite permissions to view and change the color in the calendar.
  • Try clearing the Outlook cache.

1. Start Outlook in Safe Mode 

  1. Press Windows+ R to open the Run dialog box. 
  2. Type Outlook.exe /safe and click OK to open Outlook in safe mode.OUTLOOK SAFE MODE

2. Disable problematic add-ins

  1. Launch Outlook.
  2. Click Get Addins from the top right corner of the menu.
  3. From the left pane, select My add-ins.
  4. Locate the add-in you suspect that may be causing this issue, click the three ellipses at the bottom, and select Remove.rEMOVE ADDIN Outlook Failed to Launch in Safe Mode

3. Scan for viruses

  1. Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
  4. If you don’t find any threats, perform a full scan by clicking on Scan options just below Quick scan.Scan options
  5. Click on Full scan, then Scan now to perform a deep scan of your PC.Full Scan Scan Now
  6. Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.

4. Clear Outlook cache

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box, type %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Outlook\, then click OK.
  2. Right-click the RoamCache folder, select Copy, then paste it into another folder.
  3. Double-click the actual RoamCache folder, select all the items in the folder, or press Ctrl + A, then press the Delete key.
  4. Restart your PC and launch Outlook to check if the error persists.

5. Turn on shared calendar improvements

  1. Launch Outlook.
  2. Click on File in the top left corner.
  3. Select the Account having problems, click on it, and select Account settings.
  4. Click on Change.
  5. Check Use Cached Exchange Mode to download email to an Outlook data file option.
  6. Navigate to the Advanced Tab, under the Microsoft 365 Features section, check the Turn on shared calendar improvements (preview) option, and click OK.
  7. Close Outlook and restart your PC to effect the changes.

This appears to be the most upvoted solution for the Outlook calendar not color coded error as per the comments on the Spiceworks forum. Hopefully, it will work for you too. If not, proceed to the next steps.

5. Repair MS Office

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar, and click Open. control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  2. Navigate to Uninstall a program under Programs.going uninstall program control panel
  3. Locate MS Office, click on it, and select Change.
  4. Select the Online Repair option and click on the Repair button.

If none of these solutions apply to your situation, then a fresh install of your Outlook app may do. Otherwise, contact Microsoft Support for assistance in resolving this issue.

While you’re still here, check out what to do when you can’t add an account in Outlook mail. And that sums up this article but do leave any other additional suggestions or thoughts regarding this topic in the comment section.

Chrome Tabs Not Showing Names? 5 Ways to Fix This

It would appear that after a certain Google Chrome update, tabs are not displaying names. This is not the first instance where Chrome is behaving a certain way.

We have already discussed what to do when your Chrome icon is missing, so check that out. In this guide, we get down to the bottom of this problem.

Why are my Chrome tabs not showing names? 

Chrome users have plenty to love about the browser. Its speed, simplicity, and security features make it a top choice for many. However, sometimes, you can easily forget about all these good things and focus on the problem. 

When working on a project in your Chrome browser, you’ll probably have several tabs open. This will allow you to switch between them easily and compile all the information you need promptly.

However, when tabs are not displaying names, it can be hectic playing guessing games to reach out for the tab you want to open. So why does this happen? Below are some possible reasons:

  • Corrupt extensions – We all love extensions for their added functionality, but not all bring good tidings. Some can alter how your browser works and cause such issues.
  • Faulty browser update – If your browser was working fine, but after a recent update, it stopped showing tab names, this could be the issue.
  • Browser crash – It’s no secret that Chrome is a memory hog. When you have too many tabs open on your Chrome browser and not enough memory, some tabs may start crashing, and their names will disappear.
  • Site issue – In some cases, the site you’re visiting has an issue of not displaying the title. If other tabs display title names, you can conclude it is a site-related problem.
  • Memory saver – Chrome has a memory save feature that kills any tabs in the background that are not in use. However, when you click on the tab again, the name is displayed. This could be the reason your tab names are not showing.

What can I do if Chrome tabs are not showing names?

A few simple workarounds to try before the main solutions include:

1. Disable problematic extensions

  1. Launch your Chrome browser, and in a new tab, enter the following address:chrome://extensions/
  2. Peruse through your extensions and toggle the Disable button for any suspicious-looking ones.
  3. Repeat this step until you find the culprit.

If you have too many extensions, this can be nerve-wracking, so you may want to move to the next steps.

2. Turn off memory saver

  1. Navigate to your Chrome browser and click the three ellipses in the top right corner.
  2. Select Settings.Settings CHrome
  3. Click on Performance and toggle off Memory Saver.
  4. Restart your browser.

3. Clear cache and cookies 

  1. Launch your Chrome browser and click the three vertical ellipses in the top right corner.
  2. Select Settings.Settings CHrome
  3. Click on Privacy and security, then select Clear browsing data.
  4. Check Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, then hit Clear data.Clear data

4. Reset your browser

  1. Open your Chrome browser and click on the three vertical ellipses at the top right corner.
  2. Select Settings.Settings CHrome
  3. Next, click on Reset and cleanup, then select Restore settings to their original defaults.
  4. Confirm Reset settings in the next dialog box.

5. Rollback previous Chrome version

If the latest update was the reason for Chrome tabs not showing names, you may have to downgrade to an earlier version until Google solves this issue. The steps for downgrading vary depending on whether you’re a single user or on Chrome Enterprise.

For single users, you can easily uninstall the current version and download a previous one from a trusted site. Those on Chrome Enterprise must downgrade following the steps outlined on the Google help page.

Both users must remember to temporarily disable auto-updates so that they’re not automatically upgraded to the problematic version again.

Also, remember to remove any software leftovers so that the new installation is not corrupted with old files.

In the future, to avoid such problems, we’d advise you to get a tab manager for Chrome if you find yourself with too many tabs open at any given time.

We also have an answer on what to do when your browser runs extremely slow. Check out our guide on how to speed up your Chrome browser.

That sums up this article, but we’d like to know which one of our solutions came through for you. Do leave a comment down below.

Minecraft is Missing in Volume Mixer? How to Get it Back

Whenever you click on the speaker icon on your taskbar in Windows, you expect a display of all the apps currently using sound. However, some users have reported that Minecraft does not appear in the volume mixer.

If it’s a name not available in volume mixer error, refer to our guide on how to address this issue, but for a detailed step-by-step on how to solve the Minecraft issue, here is how to go about it.

Why is Minecraft not appearing in Volume Mixer?

It’s not uncommon for the volume mixer not to show all programs. However, this can be strange when it’s a particular app that’s not showing. This is the case that Minecraft users are experiencing.

Minecraft is a game that largely depends on audio for an immersive experience, so no sound or the inability to control it from the volume mixer can be a letdown.

Below are some reasons why this may be happening:

  • Third-party interference – If you have installed additional software such as bass enhancers, these could cause conflicts with other programs as they tend to override any default settings when enabled.
  • Faulty Windows update – Some users pointed out that the issue of Minecraft not appearing in the volume mixer started shortly after updating their OSes. This could indicate a corrupt Windows update that is causing these issues.
  • Driver errors – If your sound card drivers have somehow become corrupted or incompatible, you may experience this issue.
  • Incorrect settings – If you’ve not set your PC to allow other apps to take control of your sound, they may not appear in the volume mixer. Other times, your volume mixer settings won’t save.
  • Virus attack – If your system has been compromised, some options may be wiped out, especially if it’s a conflicting app.

How do I fix Minecraft not showing up in Volume Mixer?

Start off with the following basic checks before any technical troubleshooting:

1. Run the audio troubleshooter 

  1. Press the Start Menu key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System on the left pane, then Troubleshoot on the right pane.Open system troubleshooter
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.other troubleshooters
  4. Locate the Playing audio troubleshooter, and click on the Run button next to it.

2. Update audio drivers 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to Sound, video, and game controllers to expand, right-click on your audio device, and select Update driver.update-driver-audio windows 11 audio driver download
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers.automatic-audio-driver windows 11 audio driver download
  4. Restart your PC and try reconnecting.

Since the Windows route doesn’t always go as planned, you may still end up with the wrong drivers. A more sure way is to use a driver updater utility.

Outbyte Driver Updater is the tool you need as it automatically scans for any missing, damaged, or incompatible drivers and then replaces them with the correct ones.

➡️ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Uninstall recent Windows update

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Windows Update and select Update history on the right pane.update-history restart to repair drive errors
  3. Scroll down and under Related settings, click on Uninstall updates.uninstall-updates-w11 computer-recognize-logitech-unifying-receiver
  4. This will take you to the most recent installed updates.
  5. Select the topmost update and click on Uninstall.uninstall-update-latest computer-recognize-logitech-unifying-receiver
  6. Restart your PC and check if the problem persists.

4. Enable exclusive mode for other apps

  1. Right-click on the sound icon at the bottom right corner and select Open volume mixer.
  2. Find Minecraft from the list and select Properties.
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab, check Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device option, and click OK.

5. Scan for viruses

  1. Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
  4. If you don’t find any threats, proceed to perform a full scan by clicking on Scan options just below Quick scan.Scan options
  5. Click on Full scan, then Scan now to perform a deep scan of your PC.Full Scan Scan Now
  6. Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.

6. Reset Windows

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Select System and click on Recovery.
  3. Click on Reset PC.clicking reset PC win11 settings
  4. Choose the type of factory reset you need. You can keep your personal files, or perform a complete deletion of all the files, apps, and settings on the PC.
  5. Select the option you want to reinstall Windows: Cloud download or Local reinstall.
  6. Click on Next.
  7. Finally, press the Reset button.

If the reset option does not work, you may have to perform a clean install. It may seem extreme, but it is one of the solutions upvoted as a success.

Alternatively, you can try other volume mixer alternatives and see if this fixes the issue of Minecraft not showing up.

And that’s how to fix the issue of Minecraft not showing in the volume mixer. If you have attempted any other solution not mentioned here that was a success, we’d love to hear about it. Drop us a comment below.

TLS Not Available Due to Local Problem: 3 Ways to Fix it

Sending emails should be as easy as clicking the send button on one of the many email clients available. Receiving the same email on the other end of the user should also be as easy, provided you have a strong connection.

However, some users have reported encountering the TLS is not available due to local problem error message. This is not the usual email problem as it involves the server, so here’s how to go about it.

What is TLS not available due to local problem?

Before understanding what this error means, we must understand the basic terms such as TLS. TLS stands for Transport Layer Security, a security protocol that exists on common email servers.

Its main role is to provide authentication and encrypt the exchange of messages between the sender and receiver so you might require it to enable SMTP server for Office 365.

You may have wondered whether the emails you send and receive are safe, so here is your answer. They are. Provided the security measures in place are working.

The TLS not available due to local problem may pose a threat to the security and privacy of your emails. This error means that a device cannot connect to a server because of an issue with the local network.

Some of the reasons why you may come across this error include:

  • Expired certificate – The certificate on the server may have expired, or been revoked by its issuer. In either event, you will need to obtain a new certificate from your administrator before you can connect to the server again.
  • Invalid certificate – Your computer uses certificates to verify that the website you are connecting with is who it says it is. If there is no certificate installed on your computer, then you will see this message when trying to connect with a website that has TLS enabled.
  • Unsupported hardware – It is possible that the installed version of TLS does not support your PC hardware configuration/operating system version.
  • Security breach – If a trusted and verified authority did not issue your TLS certificate, the security of your connection cannot be guaranteed. This can also happen if you have recently changed the server location.
  • Security settings – Some security software may be blocking TLS connection, which prevents your browser from connecting to the server securely.

What can I do to fix TLS not available due to local problem error?

We advise you to ensure the following basics are in check before attempting any complex solutions:

  • Make sure that your operating system and browser are up-to-date.
  • Ensure you have a strong Internet connection.
  • Switch to a browser that supports the latest TLS version.
  • Update your computer’s date and time settings so that they are correct.

1. Disable your antivirus temporarily 

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon, type Windows Security in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Click on Firewall & network protection, then select Public network.league of legends black screen after champion select
  3. Locate Microsoft Defender Firewall and toggle the off button.turning off Microsoft Defender Firewall Windows

2. Reset your TLS settings to default

  1. Press the Windows + S keys, type Internet options in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Navigate to the Advanced tab, and under Reset Internet Explorer settings, click on Reset.
  3. Click on Reset again to confirm.

3. Generate a new certificate

If your clock is in sync and you find out that the TLS not available due to local problem is still appearing, you may need to generate a new certificate.

It is possible that your computer will not be able to verify the authenticity of the server’s certificate and thus refuse to communicate with it. You can generate a fresh SSL certificate from several different providers.

You may also experience another issue where the Fatal error while creating a TLS client credential, so check out our guide on how to resolve it.

For additional thoughts on this error, leave your comments below.

Posted in Fix

Microsoft Edge Canary trials CSV export for browsing history

Currently undergoing testing in Canary, the experimental channel of the browser, is a fresh button that enables the export of browsing data in Edge, as seen on Twitter. Adding a dedicated button for exporting browsing data and the ability to filter and select specific items for export seems like a user-friendly improvement. This should simplify the process of exporting browsing data and make it more accessible to users.

Previously, exporting browsing data in Edge seemed a bit complicated, as users had to navigate through the Settings section and manually select the data they wanted to export. As described on Twitter, this new button in the History hub appears to address this issue and provide a more straightforward method for exporting data.

How to export Microsoft Edge browsing history to a CSV file

  1. Navigate to edge://settings/help update Microsoft Edge Canary to version 117.0.2026.0.
  2. Press Ctrl+H or click on the Menu button and select History.
  3. On the History flyout, click the three-dot menu to expand and select “Export Browsing Data.”
  4. Select the CSV format and choose a location to save the file.
  5. Click on the Export button.

There was recent confusion over an experimental toggle suggesting screenshot functionality. Microsoft quickly clarified that the toggle only displayed screenshots when hovering over history entries rather than capturing screenshots of every page visited. 

via WinBuzzer

 

5 Easy Steps to enable Undo Send on Outlook.com, a quick feature for convenient email delay

Email has become an indispensable part of our daily lives, facilitating communication across the globe. However, we’ve all been there – the dreaded moment when you accidentally send an email to the wrong person or with errors. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you enable a feature called Undo Send on Outlook.com, granting you complete dominance over your communications. Let’s get started!

Understanding the importance of recalling a message on Outlook.com

Sending an email that contains errors, sensitive information, or is simply meant for the wrong recipient can be a nerve-wracking experience. The ability to recall an email is a feature provided by Outlook that allows users to retrieve an email from the recipient’s inbox if certain conditions are met. This feature is invaluable for those moments when you realize a mistake immediately after hitting the “Send” button.

Unfortunately, email recall is not available on Outlook.com so unless you meet the requirements above, you won’t be able to recall an email on Outlook.com, so if you have an email address ending in @outlook.com, @hotmail.com, @live.com, or @msn.com, you can’t use this feature, but read on, you can still set up a delay to catch those pesky errors, even in Outlook.com.

Initiate an Email Recall

To initiate an email recall, the following conditions are required:

  1. The sender and recipient must both be using Outlook.com or Microsoft Exchange email accounts.
  2. The email must have been sent within the same organization or domain.
  3. The message must not have been read or opened by the recipient.
  4. Both the sender and recipient must have an active internet connection.

Email Recall Limitations

It is essential to be aware of the limitations of the email recall feature in Outlook.com:

  • Recall Unsuccessful: Despite initiating the recall process, the email might still reach the recipient’s inbox if it has been read or if the recipient’s server doesn’t support recall requests.
  • Recall within the Same Organization: Email recall works best within the same organization or domain. For external email addresses, recall success may vary.
  • Recall Timing: Once the recipient accesses the email, the recall feature becomes ineffective. Acting promptly after sending is crucial.

Set up Undo Send on Outlook.com instead

While email recall isn’t available on Outlook.com, the Undo Send feature can delay actual sending, here’s how to set it up:

  1. Go to Outlook.com and log in to your account.
  2. Click on the Settings gear icon to open the settings menu in the top-right corner.
  3. In the Settings menu, Click on Mail in the left sidebar, then choose Compose and reply.
  4. Look for the Undo send option and select the delay time (5 or 10 seconds) for sending emails.
  5. Click Save to apply the changes. undo send on outlook

Once enabled, a prompt appears after sending new emails. You can undo sending within the time you set in “Compose and reply” settings. Click the Undo button for a brief window to cancel sending the message. 

undo send

The Importance of Double-Checking

While Undo Send provides a buffer, always double-check before hitting “Send.” Review the recipient’s address, subject line, and email body for errors. This saves you from recalling emails later.

Accidents happen, and email blunders occur. While Outlook.com lacks full recall support, Undo Send offers some control. For comprehensive email recall, Outlook for Windows lets you retract and replace emails post-sending. Always double-check and use tools to ensure smooth communication.

How to Block no Sender Emails in Outlook [4 Ways]

Many users want to know how to block no-sender emails in Outlook because they can pose a security risk to their PCs and online accounts.

This is relatively simple to do, and in today’s guide, we will show you a couple of methods you can use to block these types of emails permanently.

What are no sender emails?

  • No sender emails are unwanted messages that have no specified sender.
  • Malicious users will sometimes remove their email addresses to protect their identity.
  • These types of emails are usually fraudulent, so you shouldn’t open them.

How do I block emails from no sender?

1. Create email rules to filter out no sender emails

  1. Open the Outlook webpage and log in with your account.
  2. Click on the gear icon to open Settings.
  3. Select the Rules option.
  4. Click on Add new rule.
  5. In Line 1, you need to add the name of the new rule that you want to set. We have named the new rule No sender.
  6. Line 2, requires you to select a condition. Select to in the first drop-down menu and then add your email address as the recipient.
  7. Line 3 requires you to select an action such as deleting unwanted emails or annoying emails or moving them to a specified folder. Select Move to in the first drop-down.
  8. Select the Junk folder in the next drop-down. If there is no Junk folder, then create a new folder and name it Junk. You can also create a Spam folder.
  9. Click on Add an exception.
  10. Select Sender’s address includes from the first drop-down.
  11. In the Enter all or part of an address field, type @.
  12. In case you wish to run the rule immediately and clean your mailbox of unwanted emails or annoying emails, you can click the Run rule now checkbox.
  13. Hit the Save button to save this new rule in your MS Outlook.
  14. It will return to the Rule and Alerts interface, and the website will slow down and ask you to leave the website for the changes to take effect.

2. Find the sender from the message source

  1. Right-click the email header and choose View message source.
     
  2. In the From section, you should be able to see the email of the sender.
  3. Add this address to the list of blocked contacts, and that’s it.

3. Use third-party software

Alternatively, you can use a dedicated email client software, usually, they come with extra features that make it more secure and easy to handle.

eM Client is an excellent choice for this task, it has been highly reviewed by both professionals and home users. This email client is super fast, has very powerful encryption, and comes with features that will help you block unwanted emails.

After installing, check if the problem is gone.

⇒ Get eM Client

4. Contact support

  1. Launch Outlook.
  2. Click on the Help tab on the top menu and select Help.
  3. In the search box, type Feedback.
  4. Scroll down and click on the Yes button under Still need help? question.
  5. Click on Chat with a support agent in your web browser option.
  6. Type your problem in the Description text field. Explain your issues clearly.
  7. Confirm your email address with which you are facing issues of unwanted messages with no sender.
  8. You can also attach any images that you have to give more credibility to your issue and make the support staff understand your situation better.
  9. Hit the Confirm button to send your query and start chatting with a support agent.
  10. The support team will come back with a response to your query. You need to then follow the advice that they give you to block no sender email on Outlook.

How do I block a no reply email?

  1. Locate the no reply email and right-click it.
  2. Choose Block and then Block sender.
  3. Click on OK to confirm.

Several of our readers have reported that they could block unwanted messages with no sender addresses by contacting Outlook support. You can also do that and protect yourself from such future messages.

That is it from us in this guide and we hope you managed to block the no-sender emails in Outlook successfully.

Many of our readers also reported that they get a The message cannot be sent right now error message in Outlook, but if you have the same issue, the highlighted guide will help you fix it. 

Another common problem that Outlook users come across is that the sender’s name does not show in the inbox. This can be fixed by applying the solutions mentioned in our dedicated guide.

Moreover, you can also apply the solutions that will help you resolve the Outlook not blocking junk mail problem in your PC.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above methods you followed to resolve your query on how to block no-sender emails in Outlook.

Microsoft partners with Aptos Labs to build AI-powered blockchain tools on Azure

A compelling new partnership has just been announced between Microsoft and Aptos Labs. The collaboration is set to create an AI-powered tool named Aptos Assistance, rumored to compete with OpenAI’s popular platform, ChatGPT.

The Integrative Efforts

Microsoft is no novice to the AI world; it has been consistently pushing the boundaries of ChatGPT and blockchain technology, investing billions into OpenAI, one of its principal supporters. Notably, earlier this year, the software giant integrated ChatGPT into several products, inclusive of its native browser Bing.

Now, this new strategic alliance with Aptos Labs seeks to further explore the confluence of AI, blockchain, and cloud services held by Microsoft’s Azure platform. This joint effort underscores a key shift in approach, emphasizing integrative technological solutions directed at aiding developers and users in accessing data on the Aptos ecosystem.

As part of the partnership, Aptos Labs has planned to migrate some of its validators to Azure. Moreover, Microsoft is inclined to include the cryptocurrency’s programming language, known as Move, into GitHub. The company is steadily advocating for its utilization with notable financial institutions.

Rashmi Misra, the General Manager of A.I. and emerging technologies at Microsoft shared her excitement about the pioneering initiative.

The intersection of AI and blockchain is one of the most interesting combinations of emerging technologies. By fusing Aptos Labs’ technology with the Microsoft Azure Open AI Service capabilities, we aim to democratize the use of blockchain, she said, as reported by Fortune.

The CEO and co-founder of Aptos Labs, Mo Shaikh, shares Misra’s enthusiasm. Shaikh asserts that AI and blockchain technologies can operate harmoniously and potentially limit the frequency of false statements. He discerns that blockchain, with its verified information, can provide an added layer of integrity that might sometimes be lacking in AI models.

If you look at a lot of the large models out there, they’re ingesting a lot of information that may or may not necessarily be true. What a blockchain provides is real information, verified information. We didn’t want to go off onto the side and just hack something together just for the hype of A.I., Shaikh told Fortune about their partnership with Microsoft.

The collaboration between Microsoft and Aptos Labs, and the impending launch of Aptos Assistance, indicates an exciting new frontier in the world of AI and blockchain technology.

Via Fortune

125+ Outlook Keyboard Shortcuts That Will Increase Your Productivity

Microsoft Outlook is a personal information manager software system from Microsoft, which comes with Microsoft Office & Microsoft 365 software suites.

If you use Outlook often to send or receive emails, schedule meetings, and check tasks, then you must know the popular keyboard shortcuts that can help you get by & increase your efficiency.

This guide will discuss some of the Outlook keyboard shortcuts that will help you streamline your workflow.

How do I enable keyboard shortcuts in Outlook?

  1. Go to the Outlook Web app.
  2. Locate Settings from the upper right corner.
    Outlook Keyboard Shortcuts
  3. Next, click General from the left pane and select Accessibility from the right.
    Enable shortcut
  4. Under Keyboard shortcuts, for the Select which options you’d like to use option, you will find five options:
    • Outlook.com – Enable shortcuts for Outlook
    • Yahoo mail – Yahoo! Mail keyboard shortcuts in Outlook.com
    • Gmail – Gmail keyboard shortcuts in Outlook.com
    • Outlook – Standard Outlook shortcuts
    • Turn off keyboard shortcuts – Disable shortcuts in Outlook.com
  5. Select any of the options you find suitable and click Save to confirm the changes.

Choosing these options will affect how the shortcuts work on your OWA app only. The Outlook desktop will work on Outlook shortcuts.

If you are encountering common issues, such as Outlook not opening, we advise you to check out this detailed guide to get rid of the problem.

Can you create keyboard shortcuts in Outlook?

Since Outlook 2016, you can’t create your custom keyboard shortcuts for Outlook but can undoubtedly use the already assigned ones.

However, you can move between categories using Ctrl + Function keys, and Outlook lets you define which function key works with what category. To know more, move to the last section.

Also, you can use keyboard shortcuts from Gmail and Yahoo! mail by enabling the feature on the Outlook Web app.

What are the best Outlook keyboard shortcuts you can use?

1. Frequently used shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Ctrl + Y –Open the Go to Folder window
Ctrl+NCmd + NCreates new calendar event or opens a new message window
Ctrl + EnterCmd + ReturnSends an email message
Shift+EnterCmd + OOpens chosen message in a new window
DeleteDeleteDelete a message
Ctrl + FCmd +JForwards a message
Ctrl+Shift+RCmd + Shift + RChooses the Reply All option
Ctrl + 2Cmd + 2Opens the calendar
Ctrl+RCmd + RReply to an email
Alt+DownDown arrowTakes you to the next mail on the list
Alt + Left–Takes you back to the previously selected folder
Alt + H–Takes you to the Home tab
Alt + SCmd + ReturnSends an email
Alt + NCmd+EInserts a file
Ctrl+Shift+KCmd + NOpens a new task request
Ctrl + ECmd + Option + FOpens search
EscEscClose
Alt+ J +AAlt + F + MOpens Attachment save as window
Ctrl+Shift+ACmd + NCreates an appointment

2. Edit & format text

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Ctrl+CCmd + CCopy the selected text to the clipboard
Ctrl+XCmd + XCut the selected text
Ctrl+KCmd + KAdd a hyperlink
Ctrl+VCmd + VPaste the text from the clipboard to the selected location
Ctrl+YCmd + YRepeat the recent action
Ctrl+ZCmd + ZUndo the recent change
Ctrl+BCmd + BApplies bold formatting
Ctrl+UCmd + UUnderlines selected text
Ctrl+ICmd + IApplies italics formatting
BackspaceDeleteDeletes the selected text appearing on the left of the cursor
Ctrl+BackspaceFn+DeleteDelete the word to the left of the cursor but not the space before the word
Alt + O –Shows the Format menu
Ctrl + Shift + P–Shows the font dialog box
Shift + F3–Switches case for the selected text
Ctrl + Shift + K–Formats the letters in small case
Ctrl + Shift + LCmd + Shift + LAdd bullets
Ctrl + TCmd + }Increases indent
Ctrl + Shift +TCmd + {Decreases indent
Ctrl +]Cmd + ]Increase font size
Ctrl +[Cmd + [Decrease font size
Ctrl + L–Aligns the selected text to the left
Ctrl + E–Aligns the selected text to the center
Ctrl + Shift +ZCmd+ Shift +ZClears all formatting
Ctrl + Shift +HCmd + Shift +HDeletes the next word
Ctrl + Shift +JCmd + Shift +JJustifies the text
Ctrl + Shift +SCmd + Shift +SApplies styles
Ctrl + LCmd + LAligns the paragraphs to the left
Ctrl + RCmd + RAligns the paragraphs to the right
Ctrl + TCmd + TCreates a hanging indent
Ctrl + QCmd + QRemoves formatting from a paragraph
Ctrl + Shift + TCmd + Shift + TReduces the hanging indent

3. Mail keyboard shortcuts for Outlook

3.1 Folder pane

Keyboard shortcutsAction
Right arrow keyExpands the selected section
Ctrl + Shift + ISwitch to Inbox
Ctrl + Shift + OSwitch to Outbox
Left arrow keyCloses or collapses the current folder

3.2 Message & reading list

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Ctrl+Shift+W–Displays blocked internet images
Ctrl+Shift+GCtrl + 1Flag or follow up
SpacebarPage upScroll down in the Reading pane
Shift + SpacebarPage downScroll up in the Reading pane
DeleteDeleteRemoves the selected message from the inbox
Shift+DeleteShift+DeletePermanently deletes the messages or items
EscEscAbort a search
InsertOption+Cmd+Apostrophe (')Flags a message or mark a flagged message as complete
Ctrl+<Ctrl+Left bracket ([)Go to the previous message
Ctrl+>Ctrl+Right bracket (])Takes you to the next message
Ctrl+UCmd + Shift + TMarks the selected email as unread
Ctrl+QCmd + TMarks the selected email as read
Ctrl + DeleteCmd + DeleteIgnore an email message or conversation
Ctrl + Alt + JCmd + Alt + J/Cmd + Alt + Option + JMoves the email from or to the Junk folder.
Ctrl + Alt + R–Replies to a conversation with a meeting request

3.3 Use the message list

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Action
Shift+DownSelects the current and next message & you can use this to select multiple emails in the list
Home/Ctrl+HomeSelects the first message in the current folder
Shift+UpSelects the current and previous messages & you can use this to select multiple emails in the list

3.4 Reading list

Keyboard shortcutsAction
EscCloses a new message
EndGo to the last message in the list
Ctrl+NCreates a new message
HomeGo to the top of the email list
Ctrl+FForward the selected email
Ctrl+RReply to the selected message
Page downMoves down one page in emails which has two or more pages
Ctrl+Shift+RReplies to all the recipients of the selected email
Page upMoves up one page in emails which has two or more pages
Ctrl+EnterSends the email

4. Calendar keyboard shortcuts for Outlook

4.1 Common shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Ctrl+NCmd + NOpens or creates a new calendar item on Windows, but with Command Key on Mac, it creates a new appointment
Ctrl+2Cmd + 2Opens the Calendar view
DeleteDeleteRemoves the selected event
TabShift+Control+Right bracket (])Move to the next event in the current view
EnterShift+Control+Left bracket ([)Opens the selected item in the calendar
Shift+Tab–Moves to the previous appointment
F6–Moves you to a different region in your calendar

4.2 Calendar broad view

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Alt + Up arrow key / Alt + Down Cmd + Option + Left arrow/ Right arrowTakes you to the previous week /next week (Week view)
Alt+Page up / Alt + Page DownCmd + Option + Left arrow/ Right arrowTakes you to the previous month/next month (Month view)
Alt+Home–Takes you to the start of the week.
Alt+End–Takes you to the end of the week.
Ctrl+0–Reset pan and zoom
Ctrl+Shift+Left, Right, Up, or Down arrow key–Move the selected item left, right, up, or down
Ctrl+Left, Right, Up, or Down arrow key–Pan left, right, up, or down
EscEscDeselect the selected items
Shift+Alt+6–Opens the Broad view

5. Contacts keyboard shortcuts on Outlook

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts
(Mac)
Action
Ctrl+1Cmd + 1Go to Mail
Ctrl+2Cmd + 2Go to Calendar
Ctrl+3Cmd + 3Go to People
Delete or Ctrl+DDeleteDeletes a contact or contact list
Ctrl+ECmd + 0Searches for a contact
Ctrl+NCmd + NCreates new contact
Ctrl+SCmd + SSaves a contact or contact list
Ctrl+ACmd + ASelects all contacts or contact lists
EscEscDiscard contact/Unselect all contacts or contact lists
Shift+E–Edit a contact or contact list
Down arrow–Move down in the contact list
Up arrow–Move Up in the contact list
Shift+Question mark (?)–Shows the list of People keyboard shortcuts
Ctrl+L–Create a new contact list
Alt+H–Shifts the focus to the Home tab
Alt+V–Shifts the focus to the View tab

6. Tasks keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Ctrl+CCmd + CAccept a task request
Ctrl+DDeleteDecline a task request
Ctrl + E–Opens a search box
Ctrl+Y–Opens Go to Folder dialog box
Ctrl +N–Creates a task in the Tasks view
Ctrl+OCmd + OOpens the selected item
Ctrl+PCmd + PPrints the selected item
Ctrl+Shift+Alt+UCmd + NCreate a task request
F6–Switch between the Tasks list, To-Do bar, and Folder pane
Insert–Flag an item or mark complete

7. Basic navigation shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts (Windows)Keyboard shortcuts (Mac)Action
Alt + F4Cmd + WCloses the active window
Ctrl + 4Cmd + 4Opens the Tasks view
Ctrl + 5Cmd + 5Takes you to Notes
Ctrl + 6Cmd + 6Switch to the Folders list in the folder pane
Ctrl + 7Cmd + 7Switches to shortcuts. For Mac, it opens the Sync status window
Ctrl + .–Takes you to the next open email
Ctrl + ,Cmd + ,Takes you to the previous message. For Mac, it opens the Outlook Preferences window
Ctrl + TabCmd + TabAllows you to move around message header lines in the Folder pane
ArrowsArrowsAllows you to move around in the Folder pane
Alt + Left –Takes you to the previous view in the main Outlook window
Alt + Right–Takes you to the next view in the main Outlook window
Ctrl + Shift + W–Chooses the Infobar and shows commands menu if applicable
Ctrl + Shift + Tab–Move between Folder, Outlook, To-Do Bar, and Reading pane
Alt + F –Switch to the File tab
Alt + JS–Switch to the Send/Recieve tab
Alt + V–Takes you to the View tab
Alt + E–Switches to the Help tab

Apart from knowing the best Outlook shortcuts, learning how to create a task from an email can help save time and enhance productivity.

How to create your own Outlook keyboard shortcut (Categories)?

  1. Press the Windows key, type outlook, and click Open.
    outlook open keyboard shortcuts
  2. Go to the Home tab, locate Categories.
  3. From the dropdown menu, select All Categories.
    Categories
  4. On the Color Categories window, you will see the list of categories.
  5. You can add new, rename, or delete the existing ones.
  6. .Once done, select the Category, locate the Shortcut key option from the dropdown menu, and choose Ctrl + any function key.
    Category, locate the Shortcut
  7. Click OK.

Now, you can switch between categories using keyboard shortcuts.

So, these are some of the keyboard shortcuts on Outlook that can help you enhance productivity and streamline your workflow. And if you’d like to take it a notch higher, you can manage your Outlook email efficiently with better organization tips.

To further improve your productivity, you may move the Outlook bar from side to bottom, as instructed in the highlighted guide, or read our guide on how to view the next unread message in Outlook.

Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.

Sony forecasts continued PlayStation success as company’s overall profits decline

Sony’s first quarter earnings call has yielded some pretty interesting numbers regarding its PlayStation brand, which continues to flourish even as the company’s overall profits dipped by 31% during the April-June quarter.

Much of that decline can be attributed to Sony’s life insurance and movie businesses, particularly the former. While Sony Pictures had a solid quarter with the release of Spider-Man: Across the Spider Verse, which took home over $600 million, it saw an overall slump in profits for its motion picture division compared to the previous quarter. Sony cited the ongoing WGA strike as a primary reason for the decline.

On the bright side for Sony is its PlayStation business, which continues to thrive with 3.3 million PlayStation 5 units sold throughout the quarter, a 38% boost year-over-year. No doubt this is because of better supply availability for the PS5, which was particularly harmed by hardware shortages throughout its first two years on the market.

In its investor’s report Sony raised its sales forecast for its gaming division by 7% for the year, spurred by optimism in its current-gen PS5 console. Sony said it expects to sell 25 million PS5 units this fiscal year (ending in March 2024).

Quickly Fix Chrome Tabs Not Loading [Step-by-Step]

Even though it is one of the best browsers available today, Chrome isn’t flawless, and a big problem many users face is the tabs not loading in the background.

This is most likely the memory-saving feature backfiring. The browser isn’t using too many resources, but performance is lacking. So what can you do?

You can disable tab discarding, and also check for corruption and other possible issues that interfere. Find all the answers you’re looking for below.

Why are the background tabs not loading in Chrome?

By default, the Chrome browser prioritizes active tabs to conserve memory and processing power; this can prevent background tabs from loading very slowly or not loading at all. 

Aside from Chrome’s default settings for background tabs, the following reasons can also prevent background tabs from loading in Chrome:

  • Limited system resources – If your PC is running low on memory or processing power, it tends to function very slowly; this can prevent background tabs from loading in Chrome.
  • Extensions – Some browser extensions might affect the loading of background tabs in Chrome; if so, you’ll need to disable the installed extensions to fix the issue.
  • Corrupt browser data – Corrupt browser data, i.e., cookies and cache, may cause problems for Chrome. Clearing your cookies and cache might help resolve the background tabs not loading.
  • Outdated Chrome app – If you’re running an outdated version of Chrome, you can experience performance issues due to bugs; updating the app can improve performance.

Now that we know what we’re dealing with, let’s apply the solutions below to fix the problem.

How do I keep Chrome tabs running in the background?

Before we proceed with more advanced solutions, here are a couple of quick fixes you can apply:

If the issue persists even after applying the above quick fixes, the following are advanced troubleshooting techniques that can fix the background tabs not loading error.

1. Disable the tab discarding

  1. Press the Windows key, type Chrome in the search bar, and hit Enter.
  2. Copy and paste the following into the Chrome app into the search bar, and hit Enter: chrome://flags
  3. In the next window, search for automatic tab-discarding, and set the flag to disabled.
  4. Copy and paste throttling in the search box and hit Enter.
  5. Locate the setting labeled Throttle expensive background timers and click Disable.
  6. Copy and paste parallel downloading in the search tab, hit Enter, then select Enable.
  7. Click the Relaunch Now button on the bottom right corner of the window to restart Chrome.

Tab discarding is a feature developed by Google that suspends random background tabs to reduce memory usage if the system memory is low; this prevents background tabs from loading. Disabling the feature can help fix the Chrome error.

You can check out our guide showing you how to fix the browser that keeps refreshing on Chrome.

2. Disable extensions 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Chrome, and hit Enter.
  2. In the Google Chrome app, click on the three dots at the top right corner of the window, select More tools, and click on Extensions from the drop-down menu.
  3. On the Extensions page, you’ll see a list of installed extensions, locate the one you wish to disable, and click the toggle switch next to it to disable it.
  4. Repeat this process till you’ve disabled all the extensions on Chrome, and check if the background tabs are loading correctly.

Extensions are installed on browsers to improve the browsing experience of users, but they can also trigger errors on the app if they conflict with the app’s functionality.

3. Adjust the Chrome settings

  1. Press the Windows key, type Chrome, and hit Enter.
  2. Click the three dots in the upper-right corner to open the menu and click on Settings.
  3. Then, click on Advanced. Under the System section, ensure that Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed is enabled.

Chrome usually conserves memory by eliminating a lot of its background usage; this can prevent background tabs from opening.

Though the browser isn’t short of issues, including opening new tabs every time you click, following tailored steps like the ones above should help you fix the problem in no time.

Here is a guide showing you the best ways to speed up Google Chrome when it’s running slow.

Chrome is one of the best browsers available, with few flaws. However, it throttles performance to increase the browser speed; this can prevent background tabs from loading. Luckily, this article has provided the steps to help you fix the Chrome error.

If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, please let us know in the comments below.

Microsoft Edge to automatically capture screenshots of visited webpages

Microsoft Edge is currently in the process of testing a new feature that allows users to save screenshots of visited web pages directly to their browsing history. This development is part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to enhance the functionality of its browser. The feature, referred to as “Save screenshots of the site for History,” is currently available for testing on the Canary and Dev channels of Microsoft Edge version 117.

The purpose of this feature is to provide users with the ability to revisit websites they have previously accessed by capturing screenshots of those sites and storing them in the browsing history. By enabling this feature, users could potentially access these screenshots even when they are offline, ensuring continued accessibility to web content.

Save Screenshots Of Site For History Microsoft Edge Feature

However, the naming and description of the feature have caused confusion among users. The name “Save screenshots of the site for History” has led some to believe that the browser will automatically take screenshots of every webpage they visit. This ambiguity in naming has raised questions about the intended functionality of the feature.

Additionally, concerns related to user privacy and security have surfaced with the introduction of this feature. As of now, Microsoft has not provided specific details about how the captured screenshots will be handled in terms of privacy and data security. Users are keen to understand the measures in place to protect their sensitive information.

The feature is currently in its testing phase and is not activated by default. Users who are using the Canary or Dev channel of Microsoft Edge version 117 can access the feature by navigating to Settings > Privacy and Services.

Via: GIZMOCHINA

Make Windows 11 Look Like Windows 10 [7 Tips]

The latest iteration from Microsoft, Windows 11, is touted to be one of the most advanced and user-friendly and comes with a range of new features, but several users wish to make it look more like Windows 10.

This is primarily because they got used to Windows 10, and the sudden transition seems a bit of a hassle. And to be honest, that’s completely normal. So, let’s find out how you can make a Windows 11 desktop look like Windows 10

1. Change the desktop background

While many suggest it as the last change, we recommend that you start with the background wallpaper since it’s the most critical aspect. The wallpaper is stored in the following location: C:\Windows\Web\Wallpaper\Windows

So, copy the wallpaper from there, and move it to a PC running Windows 11. In case you don’t have access to a Windows 10 computer, several websites offer the wallpaper for download. Go with one of these.

2. Move the Taskbar

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, go to Personalization, and click on Taskbar on the right.taskbar settings
  2. Now, click on Taskbar alignment, and choose Left from the Taskbar alignment dropdown menu.change alignment to make windows 11 look like windows 10

If you wanted to make the Windows 11 taskbar look like the one in Windows 10, switch the alignment to the left, and all the icons would be left-aligned. Though not exactly the same, it would give a good impression of Windows 10.

If you don’t like the new Taskbar at all, you can still change it as you please with a dedicated software recommended below.

With this tool you can change the appearance of the Taskbar completely. You can even modify its transparency, effect and color.

The most important feature of the app is however that it can combine states and instances as you use your PC. So, you can restore it to the Windows 10 looks or transform it as you wish.

⇒ Get TranslucentTB

3. Switch to the classic File Explorer

Note icon NOTE
Before editing the Registry, make sure to create a restore point. Also, these changes work on the previous versions of Windows 11 and not the latest ones. So, you will have to verify that.
  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type regedit in the text field, and hit Enter.registry
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Paste the following path in the address bar and then hit Enter:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Shell Extensionspath
  4. Now, right-click on Shell extensions, hover the cursor over New, select Key, and then name it Blocked. create key to make windows 11 look like windows 10
  5. Once done, right-click on the right pane, hover the cursor over New, and choose String Value. Name it {e2bf9676-5f8f-435c-97eb-11607a5bedf7}.create string value to fix make windows 11 look like windows 10
  6. Now, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

If you were wondering how to make Windows 11 File Explorer look like Windows 10, there’s a simple registry tweak for that. If you ever wish to revert the change, simply delete the Blocked key.

4. Get the old context menu back

  1. 1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Registry Editor, and click on the relevant search result.

    registry editor
  2. 2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt that appears.

  3. 3. Navigate the following path or paste it in the address bar and hit Enter: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID

    navigate
  4. 4. Right-click on CLSID, hover the cursor over New, choose Key and name it {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}.

    create key to make windows 11 look like windows 10
  5. 5. Next, right-click on key you just created, choose New, click Key, and name it InprocServer32.

    key
  6. 6. Once done, double-click on Default on the right under the InprocServer32 key to modify it.

    modify
  7. 7. Now, make sure the field under Value data is empty and click OK to save the changes.

    delete value data to make windows 11 look like windows 10
  8. 8. Restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

  9. That’s it! You would now have the classic context menu, the way it used to be in the previous iteration and you would be a step closer to making Windows 11 look like Windows 10.

5. Switch to the previous Start Menu UI

Note icon NOTE
This tweak doesn’t work on all versions of Windows 11, so there’s no certainty as to whether the changes would reflect. But, you can give it a try, and delete the entries created if things don’t work out.
  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, typ regedit, and click OK.registry
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt that pops up.
  3. Type/paste the following path in the address bar and hit Enter:HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\navigate
  4. Right-click on the right pane, hover the cursor over New, choose DWORD (32-bit) Value, and then name it Start_ShowClassicMode.create
  5. Double-click on the entry you just created.dword
  6. Now, enter 1 under Value data and click on OK to save the changes.modify to make windows 11 look like windows 10
  7. Restart the computer for the changes to become visible.

If you want to make Windows 11 Start Menu look like Windows 10, this Registry hack would come in handy.

6. Remove additional Taskbar icons

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, choose Personalization from the left, and click on Taskbar.taskbar
  2. Now, turn off the toggle for all the entries under Taskbar items.disable items

If you want an uncluttered Taskbar, the way it was in Windows 10, disable every item in the list, and it will now somewhat resemble the previous iteration.

7. Use a third-party app

While the methods listed here do a fine job, you can use a third-party app, StartAllBack, to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10.

StartAllBack app

StartAllBack is a useful tool which will help get the old Start menu, the classic Taskbar, the conventional Windows Explorer ribbon, and the previous context menu, amongst a range of other changes.

By now, you would be able to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10. And the inverse also holds true. Using the same idea, you will know how to make Windows 10 look like Windows 11 without software.

Also, you may find a Windows 10 theme for Windows 11, but we recommend against it, since the changes it makes will be unknown. And do not forget to read our comparison of Windows 11 and Windows 10 to better understand the differences between the iterations.

If you have any other queries, drop a comment below, and we will get back at the earliest.

How You Can Rotate Your Screen in Windows 11

Microsoft users wonder how to rotate the screen in Windows 11, and today’s guide will bring up a few simple options you should definitely try.

The OS offers you some handy methods to customize your display orientation. Fortunately, they are extremely similar to what we know from Windows 10’s screen rotation.

You can perform this action in the same main modes: landscape, portrait, and flipped mode. We’ll explain each of them at the end of this article. Thus, make sure you read it thoroughly.

How can I rotate the screen in Windows 11?

1. Rotate your screen via Display Settings

  1. 1. On your Windows 11 desktop, right-click on any empty space, then select Display Settings from the list of options.

    go to display settings windows 11
  2. 2. Go to the Display orientation section.

    click on display orientation
  3. 3. Click on the button next to Display orientation to open a drop-down menu with multiple options.

    click on the button next to display orientation
  4. 4. Choose the desired option from the list: Landscape, Portrait, Landscape (flipped), and Portrait (flipped). Once you pick one of the options, your screen will rotate in the orientation you chose.

  5. 5. Click on Keep changes on the pop-up menu that asks you to confirm the changes.

  6. Modifying Display Settings is the easiest way to change your Windows 11 screen orientation. With the OS’s desktop, you’ll automatically jump into the Display page, without going through the main Settings menu.

    From the Display orientation section, you can choose your desired orientation and apply it to your screen within seconds.

2. Use the Windows Taskbar to flip your Windows 11 screen

  1. Click on the Windows icon from your desktop taskbar and open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on System, then navigate to Display.
  3. Look again for the Display orientation section, then open the drop-down menu, and choose any model you need.
  4. To save the adjustments, click on the Keep changes button.

This option has the same effect as the previous one. However, as you can see, it requires additional steps to get on the Display page.

3. Use the device manufacturer’s Control Panel to rotate your Windows 11 screen

  1. Open any web browser.
  2. Search for your graphics driver manufacturer’s Control Panel/Center (Usually Nvidia Control Panel or AMD Catalyst Control Center).
  3. Download the Windows 11 graphics driver version.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
  5. In the Context menu, select Graphics Properties.
  6. Most of the time, the screen rotation option should be displayed as a drop-down menu or a slide bar.

4. Use a shortcut to rotate the screen on Windows 11

We left this option here because these shortcuts don’t work on all computers. However, if you have an Intel graphics card, here are the keyboard shortcuts:

  • Press Ctrl + Alt + Up arrow to rotate the screen to normal landscape mode
  • Press Ctrl + Alt + Left arrow to rotate the screen 90 degrees to the left
  • Press Ctrl + Alt + Right arrow to rotate the screen 90 degrees to the right
  • Press Ctrl + Alt + Down arrow to rotate the screen upside down (180 degrees)

4.1 Activate system hotkeys

We also need to mention that even if you have an Intel graphics card, the shortcuts might not work because you don’t have the System hotkeys activated.

Here’s how you can activate them:

  1. Click on the Windows Search tab, type graphics command center, and click on the app from the results.
  2. Now click on the System icon from the left and toggle the Enable System Hotkeys to On.

To set these shortcuts, you need to go to Intel Graphics Command Center. Then turn on System hotkeys or set the above shortcuts.

What should I know about screen modes?

  • Landscape – As you observed in our recommended steps, the default option is the Landscape one. It refers to the horizontal orientation of your screen but also can be also used for specific documents or images. This is the most used option because it creates a full perspective, ideal for PCs or laptops.
  • Portrait – This feature is also known as the upside-down landscape. Take a look at the picture below to see what it would look like.
  • Flipped mode – It is available for both mentioned designs. If you choose the flipped landscape mode, your screen will get upside-down or switch to 180 degrees. The flipped portrait option will rotate your screen 90 degrees, making it vertical and upside-down.

What are other Windows 11 screen features?

Besides the screen rotation, Windows 11 also allows you to adjust some other options that will definitely create a more personalized workplace:

  • Size – The screen size represents nothing but the physical measurement of the screen in inches. Keep in mind that screens with the same sizes may have different resolutions.
  • Rotation – This feature refers to the clarity of the text and to the images displayed on your screen. With a higher resolution, your items would appear sharper. At lower resolutions, fewer items will fit on the screen, but they will look larger.
  • Display background – The background displayed on your screen is one of the most important Windows 11 design features. It creates a unique environment; your experience is considerably improved.

For those who were wondering how to rotate the screen in Windows 11, make sure at least one of the listed options will support you.

You can choose any time to customize this feature. And whenever you change your mind, you’re allowed to make adjustments. If you’re a Mac user, learn how to rotate your screen on MacBook.

Besides, if you find portrait photos in landscape mode, uninstall the recent OS updates.

Any additional questions or curiosities? Do not forget to leave a comment in the section below.

Edit Response After Submission in MS Forms [How to]

MS Forms lets you edit responses after submission, but this feature needs to be enabled to use it.

In today’s guide, we’re going to show you the proper way to do this, so keep on reading.

How do I change the answer on Microsoft Forms after submission?

1. Allow respondents to edit their responses in Microsoft Forms

  1. Click the three dots in Microsoft Forms, and select Settings.edit a response in microsoft forms
  2. Once you open Settings, check on the Allow respondents to save their responses and Allow respondents to edit their responses boxes.Allow respondents to save their responses

When these settings are enabled, they will allow your respondents to edit their responses simply.

Note icon NOTE
Many reported that Allow respondents to edit their responses isn’t available for forms that are in groups or for previously created forms.

2. Use Edit responses in Forms

  1. Let’s say you completed your Form and submitted it. Click on Save my response to edit. edit a response in microsoft forms
  2. In your Microsoft Forms account, go to Filled Forms, and go to the latest completed form.edit a response in microsoft forms
  3. On this new window, click on the View response option.edit a response in microsoft forms
  4. This will take you to the form, and at the top of it, you’ll see the Edit response option.
  5. Edit your responses, and then click on Submit.
  6. And that’s it. You’ve just submitted your newly edited responses.

This is how you will be able to edit your responses in case you ever have second thoughts about them.

Issues with Forms can appear, and we have a guide for Your account is not enabled for Microsoft Forms errors. If Microsoft Forms is not showing all questions, we have a dedicated article for that as well.

If you found this guide useful, don’t forget to let us know in the comments section below.

Outlook Calendar not Allowing Edits: 3 Ways to Fix it

The Microsoft Outlook calendar lets users schedule and modify events, appointments, or meetings.

Several readers complained about the Outlook calendar not allowing edits. This can occur due to synchronization issues or server problems. In this article, we will take you through simplified steps in resolving the Outlook calendar not allowing edits issue.

Why is Outlook Calendar not allowing editing?

There are some prominent reasons reported by IT professionals why the Outlook calendar is not allowing edits. Below are some of them:

  • Permission issues – If you don’t have/grant others the necessary permissions to edit events on a calendar, you may encounter restrictions or Outlook errors on a shared calendar.
  • Outdated software – Outdated versions of the Outlook application could cause compatibility issues and restrict edit capabilities.
  • Syncing problems – Synchronization issues in Outlook calendar could make the calendar to be in read-only mode, which in turn can cause edit restrictions.
  • Corrupt app data – If the calendar application data is corrupted it may prevent editing events.

Now that you know some of the potential reasons why Outlook Calendar is not allowing edits as outlined above, let’s proceed to the fixes.

How do I allow Outlook Calendar to edit?

Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks, it may be worth the while to try the following preliminary checks:

  • Check the Outlook calendar sharing settings to ensure you have the appropriate editing rights.
  • Try to edit your calendar using the Outlook Web App (OWA) to troubleshoot the problem.
  • Ensure you are using the latest version of Outlook and that it’s up to date.
  • Clear the cache and cookies of your browser, as this can help fix various issues.

If the issue persists after attempting the above checks, try the following advanced tweaks.

1. Update the Outlook app to the latest version

  1. Open the Microsoft Outlook app.
  2. Select File and click on Office account.
  3. Select Update Options and click on Update now.
  4. Wait for the updates to finish, and restart your Outlook app.

Updating your Outlook app to the latest version helps address the Outlook calendar without allowing editing issues and bugs. You can alternatively uninstall the Outlook app and visit the Outlook download page to reinstall the latest version.

2. Change the Outlook calendar permissions

  1. Launch the Outlook app and click on the Calendar icon at the bottom-left corner.
  2. Right-click on the calendar you want to share and click on Properties from the context menu.
  3. Navigate to the Permissions tab.
  4. Select the username which you will allow to edit your shared calendar under the Name section or click on Add to add permissions for a new user.
  5. Next, select Can edit from the Permission Level drop-down list.
  6. Click the OK button to exit the dialog box.

Users you’ve given the Outlook calendar editing permission should now be able to edit your shared calendar. Try the next fix if you still can’t edit the Outlook calendar.

3. Enable shared calendar improvements

  1. Firstly, open Outlook and navigate to File and click Account Settings.
  2. Double-click on the Microsoft Exchange account used to manage someone else’s calendar and click Change.
  3. Click on More Settings, and then go to the Advanced tab.
  4. Tick the checkbox beside Turn on shared calendar improvements.
  5. Then, press the OK button and restart your Outlook app.

Note, however, that the shared calendar improvements option is available only to Office 365 subscribers using the latest version of the Outlook app or those using the Outlook Web App.

The folder or item should now be removed from read-only mode, allowing you to edit and make necessary changes. If prompted, confirm your action. Additionally, you can disable your workbook from read-only mode using our guide.

Hopefully, you can now resolve the Outlook calendar not allowing edits issue, having followed these instructions.

Alternatively, if you’re unable to delete calendar events, you may explore our detailed guide on how to fix it.

Also, if your Outlook meeting updates are not updating in the calendar, here are simplified methods to resolve the issue.

If this guide has helped you, share it with anyone who might benefit. Also, don’t hesitate to use the comments section below if you have any questions or suggestions.