Minecraft Won’t Allow to Play Multiplayer? Here’s What to Do

If you have encountered the Multiplayer is disabled, Please check your Microsoft Account settings error message while trying to play Minecraft multiplayer; this guide can help!

We will talk about some of the expert-recommended solutions to fix Minecraft not allowing multiplayer right after discussing the causes.

Why is Minecraft not letting me play multiplayer?

There could be various reasons why you can’t access the Minecraft Multiplayer version; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

  • Minecraft server issue – If the Minecraft servers face downtime or are offline, you might experience this issue. Check the server status; if down, wait for a while.
  • Incompatible mods – The mods installed on your game will not let you join the server, thus causing this error. Turn off the mods and try again.
  • Misconfigured privacy settings – If the privacy settings for your Microsoft account are not configured correctly, you can’t access the multiplayer server.
  • Online subscription expired – You won’t be able to play Minecraft multiplayer if the online subscription has expired. You need to renew the subscription to access the online features.
  • DNS server error – The default DNS server settings of Windows could prevent you from using the Minecraft server. Try changing the DNS to Google DNS.

Now you know the causes of the issue, let us check out the detailed solutions to fix the issue.

How can I fix Minecraft not allowing multiplayer?

Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:

  • Ensure your internet connection is stable.
  • Verify if your Windows OS and Minecraft are up to date
  • Check the Minecraft server status.
  • Make sure your age is set to 18+ on your Microsoft account.
  • Turn off the antivirus software temporarily.
  • Verify the online subscription is active.
  • Try using a VPN.

Once done, move to detailed solutions to get rid of the problem.

1. Modify the Xbox profile settings

  1. Sign in to your Microsoft account.
  2. Click Xbox from the top menu.Xbox  option  Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  3. Go to your profile picture and, click it, select Xbox profile.Xbox profile
  4. Next, click Privacy Settings.Click Privacy Settings
  5. It will prompt you to Verify your identity, choose any options, and proceed.Sign in verify your identity
  6. Next, enter the code sent and click Verify.Enter the code
  7. Under Privacy, select Everyone or Allow for all the options displayed and click Submit.Modify Privacy Settings  Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  8. Next, go to the Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 devices Online Safety tab, select Allow for all the options and click Submit.Modify Privacy Settings  Minecraft not allowing multiplayer

Once done, close the window and relaunch Minecraft to check if the issue persists.

2. Launch the game without mods

  1. Press the Windows key, type minecraft and click Open to open Minecraft launcher.Minecraft launcher  Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  2. Go to the Installations tab from the top menu.
  3. Click the New Installation option.
  4. Type in a name for the installation and, go to Version, select the latest release from the drop-down. If you are confused about which one to choose, like the one that starts with the word release.
  5. Click Create.Create a new installation
  6. Next, go to the Play tab and choose the installation you created to play.

This method only resolves the issue for Minecraft Java Edition.

3. Allow Minecraft through Windows Microsoft

  1. Press the Windows key, type windows security and click Open.
  2. Go to Firewall & network protection from the left pane, and click Allow an app through firewall.Firewall & network protection -  Allow an app through firewall.
  3. On the Allowed apps window, click Change settings.Change app
  4. Next, click Allow another app.
  5. Click Browse.Browse
  6. Navigate to program files, select Minecraft and click Add.
  7. Click Add again.
  8. The game will be added to the list; ensure you have placed a checkmark next to Public and Private and click OK.

4. Flush DNS

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd and select Run as administrator to launch Command Prompt with admin privileges.CMD elevated Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  2. Type the following command to clear the IP address and other DNS records and hit Enter: ipconfig /flushdnsipconfig /flushdns
  3. Once the command is executed successfully and you see a Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache message, close the Command Prompt window.

5. Use Google DNS

  1. Press the Windows key, type control panel and click Open.Control Panel start menu Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  2. Select Category from View by options and click Network and Internet. Category - Network and Internet
  3. Click Network and Sharing Center.Network and Sharing Center
  4. Click the Change adapter settings link.Change adapter settings
  5. Right-click the active connection and select Properties.Properties Network
  6. On the next window, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  7. Select the Use the following DNS server addresses option.IPV4 Properties
  8. And for type 8.8.8.8 for the Preferred DNS server and 8.8.4.4 for the Alternate DNS server.Google DNS Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  9. Click OK to confirm the changes.
  10. Click OK.

6. Reinstall the app

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.appwiz.cpl  - Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and click OK to open the Programs and Features window.
  3. Select Minecraft from the installed apps list and click Uninstall.Minecraft  Uninstall
  4. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the process.
  5. Next, go to Minecraft’s official website and click Get Minecraft.Get Minecraft  - Minecraft not allowing multiplayer
  6. Follow the instructions to install a fresh copy of the game.

So, these are methods you can use to resolve Minecraft not allowing multiplayer issues on your computer and play the game online with your friends without interruption.

If Minecraft is not opening for you on Windows 11, we suggest you read this informative guide to regain access to the game. And if you’re having trouble accessing the marketplace, we also have a guide for that.

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

0x8019019a Error Code: How to Fix Your Mail App in 4 Steps

Since its last update, it is common to encounter an error code 0x8019019a while using the Mail app on Windows PCs. This problem makes it impossible to set up or sync Yahoo Mail using the Mail app.

Hence, the bothersome question remains for several users: how can I fix the Mail app error on my Windows PC? Thus, this article will discuss some fixes to resolve the 0x8019019a error.

What does code 0x8019019a mean?

Error code 0x8019019a usually occurs when setting up or syncing Yahoo Mail on a Windows device using the Mail app.

This error is associated with connectivity issues, often related to problems in establishing a secure connection between the Mail app and Yahoo’s servers.

What causes error code 0x8019019a?

  • Network congestion, and poor or unstable internet connection cause the error.
  • Security software or firewalls on your computer can block the Mail app’s connection to the internet or servers, resulting in the error.
  • An outdated Mail app or operating system can cause compatibility issues with Yahoo Mail’s servers.
  • Temporary server problems on the Mail client can prevent it from establishing a connection during setup.
  • Third-party apps or add-ons that interact with the Mail app might cause Yahoo Mail not to receive emails along with this error.
  • Corrupted data related to the Mail app might prompt the 0x8019019a error.
  • Incorrect or misconfigured proxy settings can hinder the Mail app’s connection to Yahoo’s servers.

Regardless of the causes, you can troubleshoot the error by trying the solutions in the next section.

How do I fix code 0x8019019a?

Before anything else, observe the following preliminary checks:

  • Restart the Mail app and the PC to refresh its processes and check if it works.
  • Power cycle your router/modem or connect to a stable internet network to fix network problems.
  • Double-check your Yahoo Mail account settings in the Mail app.
  • Temporarily disable any security software or firewall and attempt to set up your Yahoo Mail account again.
  • Update the Windows operating system to troubleshoot compatibility problems.
  • If you’re using a VPN, try temporarily disabling it and then attempt to set up your Yahoo Mail account.

1. Remove and re-add the Yahoo account

  1. Launch the Mail app and click on Accounts in the left pane of the window.
  2. Click on your Yahoo account and tap on the Delete Account option.
  3. Click the Delete button on the new prompt.
  4. Restart your PC and relaunch the Mail app.
  5. Add the Yahoo account to the Mail app and check if the 0x8019019a error is resolved.

Re-adding your account resolves account-related issues preventing the Mail app from running smoothly. Also, it helps refresh your account history.

2. Update the Mail app

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Mail, and select Share from the context menu.
  2. Microsoft Store will launch the Mail app page.
  3. Check if an update is available for the app. If there are updates available, click on the Update button.
  4. After the update, restart your computer, try adding your Yahoo account with the Mail app, and see if the issue is resolved.

Updating the Mail app will fix bugs from the outdated version causing the error and install patches for improving the app performance.

3. Generate a password and use Other Account POP, IMAP

  1. Open your web browser and enter Yahoo mail with your ID and password.
  2. In the top-right corner, click on your Profile and choose Account information.
  3. Select the Account Security option. Towards the bottom of the page, click on Manage app passwords.
  4. Select the Other app from the new drop-down menu.
  5. Click the Generate app password button to prompt Yahoo Mail to produce a 16-character password for your account. Copy the password to your clipboard.
  6. Open the Mail app on your computer, go to Settings, and then Manage accounts.
  7. Click the +Add account button and select Other accounts (POP, IMAP).
  8. Input your Yahoo email address and paste the 16 characters password you copied from Yahoo.
  9. Type your name and click Save.

Generating the 16 characters’ password allows you to resolve security problems causing the 0×8019019a error code. Check what to do if Yahoo Mail is not working in Chrome.

4. Reset the Mail app

  1. Press Windows + I key to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on Apps and select Installed apps.
  3. Then, locate the Mail and Calendar app. Click on the options, then click Advanced options.
  4. Click on the Reset button.
  5. Open the Mail app and check if the error persists.

Resetting the Mail client will troubleshoot settings and configurations interfering with its functionality.

Lastly, you may be interested in our comprehensive guide about how to fix the Mail app not working on Windows 11.

If you have further questions or suggestions, feel free to use the comments section.

Can Viber be Hacked? [Prevention Guide]

Viber is a popular instant messaging and VoIP platform which falls under the same category as WhatsApp. Though the former never really became a significant market player, its user base has steadily increased. But can Viber be hacked?

This question has troubled Viber users for a long time. And given the overreliance on a platform with over a billion registered users, questions will be raised on the safety and security aspects of Viber. Keep reading to find out all about it!

Is Viber safe?

We have had a few instances where users claimed that their Viber accounts were hacked or news portals publishing stories along the same lines. But, Viber denied these news reports through a tweet back in 2022.

Yet, we all know how companies initially take an aggressive stand regarding hacking reports, only to set up inquiries later on to verify the facts.

Coming to Viber, it, like any other platform, can be hacked. Experts have managed to identify loopholes in the Viber framework, and the reports of these tests have been published online.

In 2013, the Viber Support website was also defaced by hackers after an employee fell prey to a phishing email that exposed two systems. Viber, again, claimed that the user data wasn’t compromised in the breach and was in safe hands.

Besides, as per a report published in Forbes, installing Viber renders the device vulnerable and increases the likelihood of hacking. The report lists a wide array of apps, including some of the prominent names in the market.

How do I hack Viber?

We won’t give you any ideas on hacking Viber! However, some apps claim to bypass the security framework and access Viber messages when installed on the user’s mobile phone.

This is a long shot! You will have to purchase a paid subscription; there’s no guarantee it will work. You might lose a few bucks or, even worse, get in trouble with law enforcement, given that hacking is a legal offense.

How can I keep my Viber account safe?

1. Don’t sign into multiple devices

A simple tip to prevent your Viber account from being hacked is not to sign into every device. Limit Viber access to a single device and check all messages and multimedia on it.

The likelihood of your account being hacked, be it on any platform, is higher when the login credentials are stored on several devices. If one of these gets compromised, your data will be available to hackers!

2. Avoid using Viber on public networks

Public networks pose a major threat! Surprisingly, most users are unaware that their data and activity on a public network can be easily monitored. Besides, hackers can access their devices and steal login credentials.

Public networks, particularly those in cafes and restaurants, don’t have any advanced security protocols. Manipulating these is relatively easier; once that happens, every insecure device on the network is compromised.

If you have to access the Internet on a public network, ensure you are connected to a reliable VPN to mask critical details and activity, though it won’t help in every case.

3. Never open suspicious links

Phishing emails and links are a common trend that has emerged of late when it comes to hacking devices and accounts. Users receive a message from someone in the contact list (whose account is already hacked) with a link. These links work in two ways!

Either user will be redirected to a website that looks similar to the sign-in page, and when they enter the login credentials, it’s automatically registered in the hacker’s database.

In other cases, malware is downloaded on the device used to access the link, which can then read all the Viber messages and find the login credentials.

So, never open any links you are unsure of! If someone sends you one, contact them on another platform and verify whether they sent it or their Viber account is hacked.

4. Set up 2-FA

Viber offers 2-factor authentication to users, and it’s critical that you set it up. This way, even if the login credentials are compromised, hackers won’t be able to access your Viber account.

Every major platform now offers 2-FA, and experts call it a must in the war against cybercrime and hacking.

5. Regularly scan the device

We all have an antivirus on our PC, be it the built-in Windows Security on the Windows OS or another effective third-party solution. And these are just as critical on mobile devices!

With mobile phones becoming the primary device for many, their security becomes just as important. So, install effective security software on your phone and regularly scan the device.

If any threats are found, change the Viber login credentials and those for the other apps immediately!

With these tips and tricks, you can prevent your Viber account from being hacked. Also, you must download all Viber updates as soon as they are released because many contain patches for known bugs and vulnerabilities.

As such, you can avoid other system temporary failure errors that may creep up due to an outdated app.

Before you leave, find out all about QR codes and whether it’s possible to hack into a device using QR codes.

For any queries or to share more tips with us, comment below.

Download Did Not Complete in Excel: How to Fix This Error

Microsoft Excel is a powerful tool, but the thing is, you never stop learning when it comes to all the ins and outs. You’ll encounter new errors every now and then, such as download did not complete.

Most users claim this error appeared when they were refreshing their Power Query. Something may be wrong with your workbook, but let’s get down to the fixing part.

Why am I getting the download did not complete error in Excel?

Power Query is a data manipulation tool that comes with Excel and is especially important when dealing with a large data set. It has a lot of potential, but it can also create problems and errors.

The download did not complete is one of them, so below, we explore some of its possible causes:

  • Protected sheet – If you are trying to open a protected workbook created in an older version of Power Query for Excel, you may encounter this error.
  • Importing too much data – If you try importing too much data from one sheet to another, you may experience this error or the initialization of the data source failed. It could be due to memory or disk space issues.
  • Incorrect source location – If you have moved or copied the file to another location on your computer and then tried to open it in Power Query, you will get this error message.
  • Change in data structure – Power Query requires that your dataset must be in the exact same structure as when you created it. If there are any changes, you will need to update your query or get the download did not complete error.

How do I fix Power Query errors in Excel?

Check off the following basics before moving to the technical solutions: 

  • Ensure your Excel app is up-to-date.
  • Check that your PC is not low on memory.
  • Verify that there have been no changes in query and structure.
  • Try duplicating the query and see if the error persists.
  • Unprotect the sheet, then reprotect.

1. Disable background refresh

  1. Click on a cell in the workbook, then click on Data on the top taskbar menu.
  2. Under Queries and Connections, select Refresh All, then in the fly-out menu, select Connection Properties.
  3. A Query Properties window will pop up. Navigate to the Refresh control section and uncheck Enable background refresh.

Background refresh is a feature of Microsoft Power Query for Excel that allows you to keep your queries up to date even when you are working on other files. The only drawback is that this constant refreshing can sometimes revert data to its original form.

If you had made any changes, they will be lost. Disabling it will allow you to complete your query.

2. Repair MS Office

  1. Click on the Start Menu icon, 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.

This step could help resolve any issues with corruption on the Excel app. If it doesn’t work, you may have to reinstall the application.

While you’re still here, check out our other article on sharing violation error in Excel and find out how to bypass it.

And that sum’s up this article. However, this doesn’t have to end here, as you can get interactive in the comment section by sharing more ideas on this matter. Drop us a comment below for any additional thoughts.

Chrome Tab Casting is Not Working? 5 Ways to Fix it

Casting a Chrome tab to your TV or any other device is so easy to do. You can stream YouTube videos or anything else straight to your device without moving. That’s not all. You can also cast straight from your Windows 11 device to a TV. 

But what happens when casting doesn’t work? We get down to the bottom of this below and offer worthy solutions. 

Why is my Google Chrome browser casting not working? 

You may be facing issues with Chrome tab casting not working. Either the cast icon is not showing, or you can’t cast. It may be due to the following reasons:

  • Network issues – The connection between your computer and the device you are trying to cast from must be similar and fast enough to stream over Wi-Fi. Otherwise, your casting will keep getting interrupted if your connection keeps dropping.
  • Outdated browser – If your Google Chrome browser is not the latest version, casting may not work because of a compatibility issue between the two devices.
  • Faulty update – A browser update can sometimes be problematic and interfere with how features work.
  • Virus infection – You may be out of luck with getting the cast feature to work if a virus finds its way into your system. Such infections take control of your settings and alter how things work.
  • Unsupported device – If the device you want to connect to via cast does not have the feature or doesn’t support it, this might be the reason why the Chrome tab you’re trying to cast is not working.
  • Outdated firmware – If you’re trying to cast on your TV but can’t remember the last time you checked for any firmware updates, this could be the reason why you can’t cast a Chrome tab.
  • Conflicting software – If you’ve installed a third-party casting software or extension on your Chrome browser, it may override any other attempts to cast.

How do I force a tab to cast in Chrome?

Start with the following basic workarounds before moving on to the rest of the solutions:

  • Check whether your device meets the minimum system requirements for casting. 
  • Verify that both devices are connected to the same network.
  • Check whether someone else is casting and ask them to end their session before you try casting.
  • Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is working correctly and that it isn’t overloaded with other devices using it at the same time.
  • Check whether any bandwidth limits have been set as they may be the cause of the casting issue.
  • Ensure you have the latest version of Google Chrome installed on your computer.
  • Uninstall any conflicting software and disable similar extensions.
  • Update your Windows OS and TV firmware.
  • Try casting on another device to establish whether one of your devices is faulty.
  • Restart both devices.

1. Run the Internet connection troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Select System and click on Troubleshoot.Open system troubleshooter
  3. Click on Other troubleshooters.other troubleshooters
  4. Locate the Run button next to Internet Connections and wait for the results.

If you are casting to Chromecast with Google TV and the receiver does not respond or keeps disconnecting, rule out a remote issue. Use our Google TV remote not working guide to re pair or reset the remote, then try casting again.

2. Scan for viruses

2.0 Chrome

  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 Cleanup computer on the right.
  4. Hit the Find button next to Find harmful software.
  5. Wait for the scan to finish and remove any recommended software.

2.1 System

  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.

If your system has been infected by a virus, a simple scan in Chrome won’t do it. You need to perform an in-depth scan using Windows built-in Windows Defender. Still, we recommend another overall scan with a more comprehensive third-party tool, such as TotalAV.

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 network

  1. Click on the Start Menu icon and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Select the Network & internet tab from the ones listed in the navigation pane on the left.
  3. Click on Advanced network settings from the options listed on the right.going advanced network settings win11
  4. Next, click on Network reset under More settings.Network Reset 1
  5. Click on the Reset now button next to Network reset.Network Reset now

5. 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.

At this point, if none of these methods have enabled you to cast your Chrome tab to another device, it is time to reinstall the browser.

Another worthy troubleshooting step to try is to rollback a few browser versions, especially if the Chrome tab casting not working issue started after you updated your browser.

That’s it for this article, but if you have any other solution that worked for you, we’re more than happy to hear it. Start us off in the comment section below.

Services Startup Type is Grayed Out? 3 Ways to Fix it

The service startup configuration determines how to initiate specific services on your Windows computer when booting up. Also, the startup type setting allows you to control how a service is either disabled, startup automatically, or manually.

However, startup service type grayed-out errors can be frustrating as it restricts your control over the startup service on your computer. Therefore, we will discuss what causes the error and walk you through three proven ways to fix it.

Why is my service Startup type greyed out?

  • System Policy settings the administrator imposes can hinder you from accessing specific configurations as the service startup type.
  • Windows Registry errors like incorrect or restricted permission can impede you from reconfiguring the service startup.
  • Already running service startups are usually locked on the Windows operating system to prevent changes while it remains active.
  • Third-party software interference or antivirus apps can restrict access to service settings to increase system security.
  • Specific Windows operating system services are protected to prevent unauthorized changes and maintain system stability and security.
  • Corrupt Windows operating system files cause a restriction to modifying specific settings like service startup.

Identifying the specific factors causing the error will aid with troubleshooting. Note that these factors vary on different PCs and circumstances. However, we will walk you through explicit steps to troubleshoot it.

How do I fix the service startup type grayed out?

Try the following before proceeding with the following advanced troubleshooting:

  • Switch to account user with administrator privilege.
  • Verify if the service is already running on your computer.
  • Run an SFC scan to check and fix Windows file integrity.
  • Restart your computer to close background apps, and refresh your System.
  • Check if there is a Group policy that can restrict modification if you are in a network environment.

Proceed with the following advanced troubleshooting if the error persists on your PC.

1. Run services as administrator

  1. Left-click the Windows icon and type Services.
  2. Then, click on Run as Administrator to open Windows services with administrator privilege.

Running the Windows Services.msc as administrator will give services administrator permission allowing you to modify the service startup.

2. Disable services temporarily

  1. Press the Windows key button, type Services, and select Run as administrator to open it.
  2. Then, navigate to the service you want to modify, right-click, and select Stop from the context menu.
  3. Further, go to the service you want to modify and check if the error is no more.

Disable service startup temporarily will stop locked running services that impede you from making changes.

Further, you can read our complete guide on what service.msc is how to open and use it on your computer.

3. Modify the service startup via Registry Editor

  1. Left-click the Windows icon, type Regedit, and press Enter to open the Windows Registry Editor.
  2. Copy and paste the following directory into the address bar and press Enter: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\ 
  3. On the left pane, navigate to the startup service you want to modify that grayed out and click on it.
  4. Then, right-click anywhere on the right side pane, click on New from the context menu, and select DWORD Value.
  5. Rename the DWORD Value to DelayedAutostart, double click on Start, and DelayedAutostart created.
  6. Further, set the following values to modify the service startup:
    • To Disable the service, set Start to 4 and DelayedAutostart to 0.
    • Manual startup, set Start to 3 and DelayedAutostart to 0.
    • Automatic startup, set Start to 2 and DelayedAutostart to 0.
    • For Automatic (Delayed Start), set Start to 2 and DelayedAutostart to 1.
  7. Close the Registry Editor, restart your device, and check if the error persists.

Note that the service startup will Display the right will display the modified option from the Registry Editor if grayed out in the startup type setting.

Further, check out our guide about how to fix disabled Registry editing by Administrator on Windows.

In conclusion, check our detailed guide about how to fix Windows can not start service on a local computer with easy steps.

Also, we have a complete guide on fixing Explorer.exe not starting on Windows startup on your PC. Before you go, you can check our guide on how to use services.msc to connect to another computer, so don’t miss it.

Rate Exceeded on Character Ai: How to Solve this Error

We have received several complaints regarding the Character AI rate exceeded error. This error prevents the platform from loading requests, rendering it unusable.

However, the rate exceeded error is not fatal but can be challenging to navigate and fix as it doesn’t have a specific cause. Fortunately, this article will outline some steps for resolving the error as you read through.

What causes the Character AI rate exceeded error?

Character AI may have certain restrictions on the number of requests or the speed at which requests can be made. It can vary per unit of time to ensure fair usage among all users and maintain the system’s stability.

Furthermore, a few factors may be responsible for the rate exceeded error while using Character AI. Some notable ones are below:

  • If you request an API at a rate higher than the specified limit, you can receive the rate exceeded error message as a response.
  • During peak usage, the API servers might experience heavy traffic from multiple users, leading to errors while processing requests.
  • Running multiple instances or threads making API calls can result in rate limits being reached faster.
  • A free trial or a limited plan with restricted API access can be responsible for reaching the rate limits sooner.
  • Server issues regarding the Character AI platform can cause the web app to malfunction and prompt the rate exceeded error.
  • The Character AI web app may not function as expected if its activities are impeded by extensions and plug-ins installed on your browser.

You should note that these factors are liable to vary depending on the circumstances of occurrence. Fortunately, you can resolve the problem by following the troubleshooting steps discussed in the next section of this article.

How do I resolve the rate exceeded error on Character AI?

Observe the following preliminary checks before advancing with any troubleshooting steps:

  • Close the Character AI web app, restart your browser, and relaunch it to see if the error persists.
  • Reboot your computer to resolve temporary glitches and processes interfering with the Character AI client’s performance.
  • Power cycle your modem or router to troubleshoot network-related issues or connect to a stable internet connection.
  • Limit the concurrent requests to stay within the rate limits if you run multiple threads making API calls simultaneously.
  • If you are on a free or a limited plan, consider upgrading to a plan that offers higher rate limits if your API usage demands it.
  • Try removing your browser extensions and see which is interfering with the AI web app.
  • Switch to another browser and check if it fixes the rate exceeded error that appears.
  • We recommend you check the server status to know if there are maintenance or server problems.

If the above steps can’t resolve the rate exceeded error while using Character AI, go ahead with the solutions below:

1. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies

  1. Launch Google Chrome, then click three dots to open the Menu. Click on More Tools and click on Clear browsing data.
  2. Choose a time range for the data to be cleared, then select All time to delete everything.
  3. Check the boxes for Cookies, other site data, and Cached images and files, then click Clear data.
  4. Restart the Chrome browser and check if Character AI starts working without running into the rate exceeded error.

Clearing browser caches and cookies will delete the corrupt files interfering with Character AI.

2. Logout and login your account

  1. Select your avatar or profile on the home page.
  2. Click on the Pencil icon to edit the profile in the new window.
  3. Navigate lower till you locate Logout, and click on it.
  4. Then, attempt to log in again.

Some users have claimed this solution worked for them. Hence, try this to gain faster access to the chatbot.

In addition, the simplest solution for the rate exceeded error is to wait until it is addressed officially. However, exceeding your rate on Character AI might be challenging to fix. So, you can contact Support for assistance.

Alternatively, you can review our detailed guide to discuss what to do if Character AI is not working. Besides, many users reported frequently encountering the Character AI network error, but our solutions will help!

We also have a guide on Internal server error 500 in Character AI, so don’t miss it for more information.

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

How to Show & Manage Tasks in Outlook Calendar

If you’re on a busy schedule, it’s important not to miss any important tasks or events. This is why many wonder how to show tasks on the Outlook calendar.

Missing an important event can be detrimental, so it’s essential to know how to manage your tasks in Outlook, and this guide will show you how to do it.

Why can’t I see tasks on the Outlook calendar?

  • Your default mail account isn’t the same account you’ve added tasks to.
  • Your tasks aren’t under the main tasks folder in Microsoft To Do or in Outlook in the web task pane.

Set the default calendar in Outlook

  1. Navigate to File and select Info.
  2. Now choose Account Settings and select Account Settings again.

  3. Next, navigate to the Data Files.
  4. Select the account you use for tasks and choose Set as default.

Did you know you can download Outlook calendar? Yes, and you can use this feature to export and transfer your data quickly.

How do I show tasks on the Outlook calendar?

Move them to the Calendar manually

  1. Open Outlook, or Outlook for Web.
  2. Select the Calendar icon from the left pane.
  3. From the top menu, select My Day and then To Do. Your task list will now appear.
  4. Locate the task that you want and drag and drop it to the desired slot on the calendar. This will create cards for calendars in Outlook that you can move around.
  5. Repeat this for all tasks that you want to show on Outlook Calendar.

This is all possible thanks to the Calendar Board feature in Outlook. If you want to learn more, we have a great guide on making Outlook calendar private, so be sure to check it out.

In case you prefer public calendars, check our guide on how to add a public folder calendar to Outlook.

Keep in mind that sometimes Outlook crashes when opening calendar, but we have a dedicated guide that can help you with that.

Integration with Microsoft To Do

Although Outlook and Microsoft To Do are integrated, this isn’t perfect, and there is a place for improvement.

Microsoft To Do is available in Outlook and can be accessed on both desktop and web versions. You can also create a task from an email and check it under To Do tab on Outlook.

For desktop:

  1. Open Outlook.
  2. Next, choose Tasks from the reading pane.
  3. You should see all your To Do tasks.

If needed, you can sort tasks by clicking on Tasks and selecting the Home drop-down menu.

For Web:

  1. Open Outlook for Web.
  2. Click on My Day.
  3. From there, you’ll be able to see and access all your tasks.

This can be quite useful since it allows you to create tasks, delete them and add them easily to your calendar. However, To Do doesn’t automatically add your tasks to the calendar, as many would think.

Instead, you have to manually do that for every task you want to add to your task list. This can be a good or a bad thing, depending on how you use it.

Keep in mind that you might encounter issues with the service because few have reported that Microsoft To Do is not syncing properly.

We love this method, but we hope there will be an option for a complete calendar and To Do synchronization.

As you can see, it’s easy to show tasks on the Outlook calendar, but unfortunately, you can’t automatically show all of your tasks. Instead, you will have to add them to your to-do list manually.

For those with multiple accounts, you can enable the view multiple calendars in Outlook feature to display all your tasks at once.

In case you want to learn more, we have a great guide on how to assign tasks in Microsoft To Do, so be sure to read it.

And if you ever change your mind and want to keep completed tasks tucked away, check out our guide on hiding completed tasks in Outlook.

Have you ever used Outlook with Microsoft To Do? Tell us more about your experience in the comments below.

How to Enable or Disable Data Execution Prevention

The Windows OS is user-friendly, though it comprises various features for advanced and professional users. The Data Execution Prevention (DEP) feature in Windows versions from XP Service Pack 2 to Windows 11 is one of them.

However, different people have been concerned about knowing what the data execution prevention feature is and whether to turn it on or off. Therefore, we will discuss DEP and how to enable or disable Data Execution Prevention on Windows PCs.

What is data execution prevention?

Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a built-in security feature in Windows designed to protect your PC against malicious code execution. It divides your computer memory into two categories: executable and non-executable. Therefore, restricting specific memory areas from being executed as code.

The key features of DEP are:

  • Preventing malicious code execution
  • Restricts specific memory parts from being executed as code
  • Safeguard against buffer overflow and likely attacks
  • Protects against various types of malware and exploits
  • Enhances system security
  • It allows you to configure individual applications or the entire system.

Having discussed DEP and its key features, we will walk you through explicit steps to turn it on or off.

You can get a deeper explanation of how Data Execution Prevention works by reading this detailed DEP guide.

How do I enable data execution prevention?

1. Use Command Prompt

  1. Left-click the Windows icon, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Then, select the Yes button if the UAC permission prompts.
  3. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter to enable DEP: bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx AlwaysOn 
  4. Also, to disable Data Execution Prevention, type this and press Enter: bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx AlwaysOff
  5. To check if DEP is enabled

Check our detailed guide on how CMD is not working in Windows 11.

2. Via Windows Settings

  1. Left-click the Windows icon and select Settings.
  2. Select the Privacy & Security category and click on Windows Security.
  3. Select the App & Browser control category. Navigate to the Exploit Protection section and click the Exploit Protection Settings link.
  4. Then, go to Data Execution Prevention (DEP) and click the drop-down arrow.
  5. Further, select the appropriate option to enable or disable DEP.

Note that the Data Execution Prevention will to DEP Default (ON) on your PC. You can read our complete guide about ways to fix Windows Settings not opening on your computer.

3. Use the Control Panel

  1. Press the Windows button, type Control Panel, and press Enter.
  2. Select the System and Security category, and click on System.
  3. Select the Advanced System Settings link from the right pane of the new window.
  4. Navigate to the Performance section and click the Settings button.
  5. Select the Data Execution Prevention tab from the top and click the Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only radio button.
  6. Then, click the OK button and restart your PC.

The above steps allow you to turn on and off the Data Execution Prevention feature.

We have a detailed guide on what Control Panel is and how to use it on your computer. You may also check out our article on resolving Standard Hardware Security not supported on Windows 11.

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

How to Properly Fix a PC That’s Not Turning on [12 ways]

If your PC is not turning on even if you tried plugging it into another outlet and there isn’t any power outage in your area, that is usually caused by the power supply of your device.

Well, there can be multiple reasons why your computer is not turning on, which we will be discussing in this guide. Also, we will share with you the solutions that will help you fix your PC.

Why is my computer not turning on?

One of the common issues that could prevent your computer from turning on is the power supply. Chances are that the cable that you are using to power your computer is faulty.

For desktops, the internal power supply might be faulty or the battery is damaged in the case of laptops. Other times, there are issues with the display, where even though the computer is running, the display doesn’t show anything making us believe that the computer is dead.

You might be stuck in a boot loop or some sort of a BSoD (Blue Screen of Death) error that is preventing you to boot into your system.

Often it is also some issues because of the presence of malware or virus, or some important system files might be corrupt on your PC.

Your computer may also have loose components inside which are preventing it to turn on, or you have attached a faulty piece of hardware that is causing a premature shutdown.

Let us check out the different common reasons why your computer is not turning on and the solutions that can help you resolve that issue.

How can I troubleshoot my PC when it is not turning on?

1. Use a different power source

If you turn on your computer and nothing displays or absolutely nothing happens, then this could be a power failure issue.

In such cases, we would suggest you connect the computer’s outlet to a different source and then turn on your PC. Do not use the UPS and check if the different power outlet resolves your problem.

2. Replace the power cable

You can also try replacing the power cable that you are using to connect to the power source. Chances are it is faulty or worn out and isn’t delivering the required power to the PC, which is why your computer is not turning on.

We would also suggest you check the power sockets in your PC as some issues on it can also prevent perfect power delivery for the system to boot up.

3. Charge the laptop

If your computer is not turning on, then it could also mean that the battery is completely drained out. You can connect your PC to a power source and let it charge for a good 15-20 minutes.

After that, press the power button and check if this boots up the laptop or not. If that helps you resolve the problem, then you should ensure that your laptop has sufficient charge to avoid such issues.

4. Restart the PC multiple times

  1. Hold the power button to turn off the PC.
  2. Wait for about 10-20 seconds.
  3. Press the power button to turn on the PC.
  4. Repeat the process 3-4 times to fix the startup issue.

Perform the above steps and check if this helps you turn on your computer or not.

5. Connect your PC to a different display

Often the issue is not within the system but within the hardware that is connected to it. If your computer is having issues turning on, but you see that the light turns on when you press the power button, but nothing is displaying on your display, it could be a display issue.

Simply plug in your computer to a different display monitor and check if turning on shows any result on the display or not. If yes, then you should replace the display monitor and get yourself a new one.

For your convenience, we have a guide that compiles a list of some of the best monitors that you can buy. We have listed monitors from all top brands such as Asus, Acer, Dell, etc.

Moreover, if you are looking for a performance monitor for tasks such as gaming, or heavy editing, then we would suggest you take a look at our dedicated guide that lists some of the best performance monitors.

6. Unplug all connected devices

If you have connected an external hard disk, USB drive, USB keyboard/mouse, etc. devices to your computer, then we would suggest you unplug all of them from your computer and then try turning the PC without them.

When you unplug all these devices you eliminate all possibilities of malfunction caused by external devices. Also, if your computer detects an unsupported or faulty device, it will misbehave and cause such issues.

7. Check the motherboard light (Desktop only)

Unscrew the CPU cabinet and then turn on your PC. Check if the motherboard light blinks when you turn on your computer or not. If the motherboard light blinks, then the problem could be something else.

While it is pretty hard to detect what the problem is, at least you know that the motherboard isn’t at fault here.

8. Listen to the beep sound

Some motherboards generate beeping noise when they come across any issues or failures. If your computer produces multiple beep noises, then you should listen to them.

In case, the beep sound is in a particular sequence, register that sequence as they could sound like Morse code.

Check the user manual or search the internet about what that beep sequence means, and apply the solutions related to that beep noise. Do note that not all motherboards will generate a beeping noise.

9. Reset BIOS manually

  1. Turn off your PC and unplug it from the power outlet.
  2. Open the CPU case (if that action doesn’t void any warranty).
  3. Find the CMOS jumper. It will be located on your motherboard and is usually labeled with CLEAR, CLR, CLEAR CMOS, PSSWRD, or a variety of other labels.
  4. There will be three pins, and the jumper covers only two. Move the jumper to the other two pins. For example, if the jumper is attached to the first and second pins, move it to the second and third.
  5. Press the power button. Do note that your PC won’t start because the power is turned off. However, it will discharge any remaining power stored in the capacitors. Doing this resets your BIOS.
  6. Return the jumper back to its original state.
  7. Close the case, turn the power on, and start your computer.

When you reset the BIOS, your data will stay intact. If you have OS installed, it will stay there, however, some of the features may not work after you reset the BIOS.

Else, you can try updating the BIOS on your computer, which you can do by following the steps mentioned in our dedicated guide on how to update BIOS.

10. Replace the graphics card

Your computer not turning on could also be the result of graphics card failure. If you have a spare graphics card available, then you can try replacing it.

Do note that perform this process only when you know what you are doing as unplugging any other components could permanently damage your computer.

11. Check your hard drive

Multiple laptop or computer users have reported that they were not able to turn on their computers because their PCs were not able to read the operating system.

This is because they had a problematic hard disk drive or it was improperly connected to the motherboard.

In such cases, we would suggest checking the connections of your hard disk drive or using a new one (SSD would be great), and then try booting your computer.

For users experiencing slow speed with their SSD, we have a guide that explains how you can troubleshoot the situation and fix the SSD issue.

12. Reinstall the RAM

  1. Turn off the computer by pressing the power key.
  2. Disconnect the AC power source (for desktops).
  3. Open the cabinet and remove the RAM.
  4. Clean the RAM connection points and connect them back to the motherboard.
  5. Turn on your PC and check if this fixes the issue or not.

Sometimes loose RAM connection can also cause such issues where your PC won’t turn on. Follow the simple steps and check if this helps resolve the problem.

If nothing works, then as a last resort, we suggest bringing your computer to a verified service center and getting it repaired. The issue could be much worse than you might be thinking.

That is it from us in this guide. We have listed some effective solutions that will help you fix the 10 most common computer problems.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions fixed the problem of the computer not turning on.

3 Ways to Download all Attachments from Outlook

As a professional user, downloading tons of attachments from the emails received in Outlook can be monotonous and time-consuming. 

Fortunately, you can easily download multiple attachments from one email in Outlook at once without having to hit the Save button for each of them. Furthermore, it is also possible to download multiple attachments present in multiple emails through a simple workaround. 

If you are curious to know the step-by-step procedure, stay with us as we guide you through the procedure.  

How do I download all attachments from an email?

1. Using the desktop app

  1. Launch the Microsoft Outlook app on your Windows PC.
  2. Look for and open that email in the reading pane from which you download the attachments.
  3. Switch to the Attachments section from the top menu bar, right-click one of the file attachments in the right section, and select Save all attachments in the drop-down menu. 
  4. Press the Ctrl key and select all the attachments you wish to download in the small dialog box that opens. 
  5. Press the OK button after selecting the required attachments. 
  6. A new Save as pop-up to save your attachments will open. Browse to the folder where you want to save the attachment files and press the OK button on the bottom right to initiate the attachment download. outlook download all attachments

You can easily download all the files attached to an email at once instead of downloading each file individually. 

2. Using the web app

  1. Access the Microsoft Outlook web app using your preferred web browser and provide your login credentials when prompted to sign in. 
  2. Select the Inbox folder from the left menu bar in the Home section of the web app. outlook download all attachments
  3. Double-click the email in question to view the email contents in a new window. 
  4. Click the Download all button to download the attachments in the form of a ZIP file. outlook download all attachments
  5. Choose the download location and press the OK button if the Save as the dialog box opens up. 

This is a straightforward method to download all the email attachments from one email if you prefer the web app instead of the Outlook app. 

How do I download all attachments from multiple emails?

Note icon NOTE
You can try this method only if you are using Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, or 2003.

1. Create a new folder

  1. Use the Windows + E shortcut to launch File Explorer. 
  2. Navigate to the Documents folder from the left sidebar.
  3. Right-click anywhere on the right section and choose New followed by Folder from the context menu. outlook download all attachments
  4. Double-click the folder name and rename it as Attachments.

2. Create a VBA script

  1. Now launch the Outlook app on your Windows PC. 
  2. Choose the File option and then select Options from the left sidebar. 
  3. Select Customize Ribbon from the left panel of the Word Options window. outlook download all attachments
  4. Select the Developer option in the Main Tabs and press the Plus icon to add Developer mode to the Outlook ribbon menu. 
  5. Close the Word Options popup and then select Developer Mode followed by Visual Basic from the main menu. 
  6. Select Project1 displayed as default and then select Insert followed by Module to access the Module window. 
  7. Now copy and paste the following code into Module1 and close the window. 
Dim GCount As Integer
Dim GFilepath As String
Public Sub SaveAttachments()
'Update 20200821
Dim xMailItem As Outlook.MailItem
Dim xAttachments As Outlook.Attachments
Dim xSelection As Outlook.Selection
Dim i As Long
Dim xAttCount As Long
Dim xFilePath As String, xFolderPath As String, xSaveFiles As String
On Error Resume Next
xFolderPath = CreateObject("WScript.Shell").SpecialFolders(16)
Set xSelection = Outlook.Application.ActiveExplorer.Selection
xFolderPath = xFolderPath & "\Attachments\"
If VBA.Dir(xFolderPath, vbDirectory) = vbNullString Then
    VBA.MkDir xFolderPath
End If
GFilepath = ""
For Each xMailItem In xSelection
    Set xAttachments = xMailItem.Attachments
    xAttCount = xAttachments.Count
    xSaveFiles = ""
    If xAttCount > 0 Then
        For i = xAttCount To 1 Step -1
            GCount = 0
            xFilePath = xFolderPath & xAttachments.Item(i).FileName
            GFilepath = xFilePath
            xFilePath = FileRename(xFilePath)
            If IsEmbeddedAttachment(xAttachments.Item(i)) = False Then
                xAttachments.Item(i).SaveAsFile xFilePath
                If xMailItem.BodyFormat <> olFormatHTML Then
                    xSaveFiles = xSaveFiles & vbCrLf & "<Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.>"
                Else
                    xSaveFiles = xSaveFiles & "<br>" & "<a href='file://" & xFilePath & "'>" & xFilePath & "</a>"
                End If
            End If
        Next i
    End If
Next
Set xAttachments = Nothing
Set xMailItem = Nothing
Set xSelection = Nothing
End Sub

Function FileRename(FilePath As String) As String
Dim xPath As String
Dim xFso As FileSystemObject
On Error Resume Next
Set xFso = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject")
xPath = FilePath
FileRename = xPath
If xFso.FileExists(xPath) Then
    GCount = GCount + 1
    xPath = xFso.GetParentFolderName(GFilepath) & "\" & xFso.GetBaseName(GFilepath) & " " & GCount & "." + xFso.GetExtensionName(GFilepath)
    FileRename = FileRename(xPath)
End If
xFso = Nothing
End Function

Function IsEmbeddedAttachment(Attach As Attachment)
Dim xItem As MailItem
Dim xCid As String
Dim xID As String
Dim xHtml As String
On Error Resume Next
IsEmbeddedAttachment = False
Set xItem = Attach.Parent
If xItem.BodyFormat <> olFormatHTML Then Exit Function
xCid = ""
xCid = Attach.PropertyAccessor.GetProperty("https://schemas.microsoft.com/mapi/proptag/0x3712001F")
If xCid <> "" Then
    xHtml = xItem.HTMLBody
    xID = "cid:" & xCid
    If InStr(xHtml, xID) > 0 Then
        IsEmbeddedAttachment = True
    End If
End If
End Function

3. Run the VBS script

  1. Switch to the Developer Mode and then select Visual Basic from the Outlook ribbon. outlook download all attachments
  2. Select Module1 and hit the F5 key to run the code. 
  3. Click the Save Attachment button after selecting the attachments to confirm the action. 

VBA scripts enable you to automate the attachment download process in Microsoft Outlook. However, you should proceed carefully with the VBA scripts to avoid damaging your computer.  

That’s all in this guide! Hope you are aware of the different ways you can easily download all email attachments from the Microsoft Outlook app. 

If you run into the Something went wrong error in the Outlook app, try the solutions suggested in this guide. 

If you have any queries, or you know about other methods, let us know in the comments section. 

Fix: You’re Offline Check Your Connection Error on YouTube

Have you recently encountered You’re offline. check your connection error on your device while using YouTube? The error is becoming a menace preventing most users from accessing YouTube’s content.

Hence, there’s a need to look into some ways to fix the problem and get YouTube working on your device again. Thus, explore this guide to find some steps for resolving the connection error.

Why does YouTube keep saying you’re offline check your connection?

  • Weak internet connection or network congestion can affect connection to the YouTube servers.
  • Network restrictions or firewall settings might impede access to YouTube, causing the error message to appear.
  • Domain Name System (DNS) problems can cause the device to be unable to resolve YouTube’s server addresses.
  • If YouTube servers are experiencing downtime or issues, it can result in a connection error message.
  • Caches and cookies in the browser or app can affect YouTube when corrupted and hinder proper access.
  • Using an outdated version of the YouTube app can sometimes cause connectivity issues.

However, the above causes are general and can sometimes vary on several devices. This variability makes determining which factors are responsible for the error tedious. Fortunately, we have put together some general fixes for resolving the problem.

How do I fix You’re offline, check your connection error?

Before anything, we recommend you observe the preliminary checks below:

  • Power cycle your network devices and connect to a fast internet network to help YouTube connect to its servers.
  • Restart your device to help resolve temporary connectivity issues and try accessing YouTube again.
  • If you are connected to any VPN service, disconnect, and relaunch YouTube.
  • Disable background apps or others on your computer and disable any firewall service impeding YouTube connections.

If the steps above can’t fix the You’re offline; check your connection error when using YouTube, go ahead with the advanced fixes below:

1. Change your DNS server address

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter to open the Network Connection page.
  2. Right-click your network adapter and select Properties from the drop-down.
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  4. Tick the box for the Use the following DNS server addresses option, type 8.8.8.8 in the Preferred DNS server, and 8.8.4.4 for the Alternate DNS server, then click OK to save settings.
  5. Restart your PC, then check if the YouTube connection error persists.

Changing your DNS server address can help fix network issues, and the You’re Offline. Check Your Connection problem.

Read our article about checking and changing the DNS server on Windows if you’re having trouble with the steps above.

2. Check your date and time settings

  1. Right-click the date and time on the Taskbar, and click Adjust date and time settings.
  2. Toggle off the set time automatically, and click the change button beside set the date and time manually.
  3. Adjust the settings manually and click on the change button to save.
  4. Further, click on the Sync now button.
  5. Restart your PC and check if YouTube works.

Adjusting the date and time is one of the tested and most effective ways to fix YouTube connection problems.

3. Clear browser cache and cookies

  1. Open the browser and click the Menu option. Select More Tools and click on Clear browsing data.
  2. Select All Time from the Time range at the top, check the boxes next to Cookies and other site data, and the Cached images and files option. Then, click on Clear data.
  3. Relaunch the browser and check if the error persists.

Clearing the browser cache and cookies will remove all corrupt or malicious pre-store data and refresh the website. Further, you can also clear your computer cache in Windows 11.

4. Remove third-party extensions

  1. Open the browser and click the Menu option. Select More Tools and click on Extensions.
  2. Toggle off each Extension and check if the error persists.
  3. Repeat this process for all Extensions to find the one causing the error.
  4. Click Remove on the problematic extensions once figured out.

Removing the browser extensions will fix issues with ad-blocker and other extensions, causing You’re Offline. Check Your Connection error. You can read step-by-step details to view browser extensions on your device.

Alternatively, you can go through our guide on fixing an error that occurred on YouTube on your PC.

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

Fix: Clock_Watchdog_Timeout BSOD in Valorant

Though Windows has emerged as a preferred gaming platform, issues continue to plague the operating system. Game crashes and FPS drops are the simpler ones. But the Clock Watchdog Timeout BSOD while playing Valorant is a rather tricky problem.

There’s not much users can do when faced with the error, given the lack of troubleshooting measures suggested by Windows or the game. And the worst part, it leads to a loss of in-game progress. Keep reading to find out how to fix Clock Watchdog Timeout when playing games!

What causes Clock Watchdog Timeout?

The error indicates a problem in the communication between the system and the CPU. When the relay of information takes too long or the process is abruptly terminated, you see the Clock Watchdog Timeout. Here are a few reasons you are seeing the BSOD error:

  • Misconfigured settings: The primary reason users face the error is misconfigured settings, both in-game and on Windows.
  • Outdated drivers: Some users reported that the problem was linked to outdated drivers. It was different for them all, could be the drivers for GPU, controller, or another device.
  • Corrupt system files: For a few, it was the corrupt system files that affected the relay of information and, subsequently, triggered the BSOD.
  • Overclocking in play: Even a trivial issue or misconfiguration can cause an error when the PC is overclocked.
  • Third-party apps: There’s also the likelihood that another program is the problem. Some reported it to be Vanguard’s anti-cheat, while others found security software responsible for the error.

How do I fix Clock Watchdog Timeout BSOD when playing Valorant?

Before we move to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to try:

  • Remove any overclocking. In case you are using an overclocking program, uninstall it.
  • Make sure your CPU gets the required power.
  • Update the BIOS.
  • Reset the BIOS. A quick way to do that is to remove the CMOS battery. If unsure of the process, check the manufacturer’s website.
  • Update Windows in case there are any newer versions available. Also, when the Valorant BSOD Clock Watchdog Timeout appears after updating the OS, uninstall recent Windows versions.

If none work, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Update the driver

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.update driver to fix Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD
  3. Now, choose Search automatically for drivers and wait for the process to complete.search automatically
  4. Once done, restart the computer.

Driver issues, particularly corrupt or outdated graphics drivers, trigger a range of errors and also affect the system’s performance. Updating the graphics driver should fix Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD in no time!

If Windows can’t find a newer version, you can always go to the manufacturer’s website and manually install the driver. Here are the links to the download pages:

If the problem reappears after updating the drivers, Windows is likely to install the problematic version. So, we recommend that you disable automatic driver updates.

2. Repair the corrupt system files

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Paste the following three commands one at a time, and hit Enter after each:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Now, execute this command to run the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc scan to fix Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD

If it’s the corrupt system files to blame for Clock Watchdog Timeout in Windows 10 while playing games, running the DISM tool and SFC scan should get things up and running!

On the other hand, it’s more beneficial to rely on a tailored PC repair solution that offers BSoD crashes support and solves damaged system files automatically on your Windows device.

3. Check for disk issues

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Command Prompt in the text field, and click on Run as administrator.
  2. Click Yes in the prompt.
  3. Run the following command to identify and repair disk issues:chkdsk /rcheck disk
  4. If asked to run the scan on the next reboot, hit Y, press Enter and then restart the computer.

The Check Disk utility helps repair hard drive issues, including bad sectors. This ensures that all available game files are accessible and readable, and that the disk doesn’t trigger the Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD.

4. Uninstall conflicting programs

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, go to Installed apps from the navigation pane, and click on Apps.
  2. Now, click the ellipsis next to the problematic apps, and select Uninstall.uninstall
  3. Again, click Uninstall in the confirmation prompt.

When the Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant blue screen of death appears due to a conflicting program, it’s best that you uninstall the app. Here are a few apps reported to trigger the error:

  • MSI Afterburner
  • Valorant Anti-cheat
  • Third-party antivirus

5. Reinstall Valorant

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click OK.
  2. Select Valorant from the list of programs, and click Uninstall.uninstall Valorant to fix Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process, and then restart the PC.
  4. Finally, reinstall Valorant.

When faced with the error, we can’t rule out the possibility of an improper Valorant installation causing the Clock Watchdog Timeout BSOD error. And reinstalling the game should fix things in no time!

6. Perform an in-place upgrade

Tip icon Tip
The steps listed here are for Windows 11. Though, using similar steps, you can perform an in-place upgrade on Windows 10.
  1. Go to Microsoft’s official website, choose the product language and edition, then download the Windows 11 ISO.
  2. Open the ISO, and then run the setup.exe file.setup.exe
  3. Click Yes in the prompt.
  4. Click Next to proceed.next
  5. Now, click on Accept to agree to the license terms.
  6. Verify that the setup reads, Keep personal files and apps, and click on Install to start the process.in-place upgrade to fix Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD
  7. Wait for the in-place upgrade to complete. It may take a few hours.

When everything else fails, the last option is to perform an in-place or repair upgrade. It will replace all Windows files, which could be leading to the Clock Watchdog Timeout Valorant BSOD error.

Tip icon Tip
If none of the above solutions worked, a hardware issue is likely triggering the BSOD. It could be both the RAM and the CPU. And we advise that you contact a repair shop to get the hardware inspected and, if required, repaired.

Before you leave, discover some quick tips to optimize the PC for gaming and get it to perform faster. We also have a new guide on Cluster Csv Clussvc Disconnect Watchdog error, so don’t miss it.

For any queries or to share the solution that worked for you, drop a comment below.

DirectX 12 Games Are Not Using the GPU? How to Force Them

So you just got yourself the best graphics card money can buy. But wait. There’s a problem. Your DirectX 12 games register low GPU usage. If you’re a gamer, you know there’s nothing as bad as your graphics card not running at full potential.

According to user reports, the GPU usage is missing or extremely low. If you’re in a similar situation, here’s how to ensure your GPU utilizes all its resources.

Why are my DirectX 12 games not using my GPU?

If you’re trying to play a game that uses DirectX 12 and your graphics card isn’t being used, below are the most common reasons why:

  • Multiple graphic cards – If you have both a dedicated and integrated GPU, your games may be opting to use your other GPU.
  • System requirements – It is possible that your GPU isn’t being used because it doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for running the specific DirectX 12 game you’re trying to play.
  • Outdated graphic drivers – If you are running a game built on DirectX 12, and your GPU drivers are outdated, then this may be why your game isn’t utilizing the GPU to its full potential.
  • GPU can’t be detected – At times, your PC cannot detect your GPU either because of faulty drivers or because it has been damaged.
  • Games don’t use the GPU – You must know that not all games require the GPU to run. If a game is not using the GPU, this should not be a cause for alarm.
  • Insufficient power – It is also possible that the game you’re trying to play needs more power than your current GPU can provide hence shifts the burden on other system resources like your CPU.
  • Older hardware – Most older hardware does not work with DirectX 12. There’s no magic around it, and in most cases, it requires a new graphics card or updated drivers.
  • Outdated OS – If your PC has not been updated or you’re one of those people who’ve disabled updates permanently, this is one of the consequences of your choices.

How do I know if my GPU supports DirectX 12?

If you have a relatively recent graphics card, your GPU should support DirectX 12. However, this is not the benchmark for DirectX 12 support. A more sure way of determining this is using the built-in Windows DirectX Diagnostic Tool:

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type diaxg in the search box and hit Enter. 
  3. In the DirectX Diagnostic Tool window that opens, navigate to the System tab.
  4. Here, you can see what version of DirectX is supported by your PC under System Information.

How do I get my graphics card to support DirectX 12?

Ensure you fulfill the following prerequisites before anything else:

  • Check the system requirements for the game against those of your PC and ensure it is up to par or exceeds them.
  • Ensure your Windows version is up-to-date.
  • Check that the game you’re playing is the latest version available.

1. Reinstall your drivers offline

  1. Use our article on how to download drivers offline, preferably the one where you download and copy the drivers to a USB hard drive.
  2. Disconnect your PC from the Internet.
  3. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  4. Navigate to the Display driver section, locate your graphics card driver, right click and select Uninstall device.Uninstall graphics driver dcom error 1084
  5. Repeat this step for Processors and Chipset drivers too. Remember not to restart your PC when prompted.
  6. Now restart in BIOS mode.
  7. Proceed to update your PC’s BIOS.
  8. Next, install the corresponding drivers as saved in your USB drive as uninstalled in step 4.

2. Enable hardware acceleration

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System on the left pane, then Display on the right pane.Settings - System - Display High CPU usage New World
  3. Scroll down and select Graphics.
  4. Select the Change default graphics settings option.
  5. Now, toggle on the Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling option.disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling

3. Disable your integrated GPU

  1. Click on the Start Menu icon, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your graphics card, and select Disable device.
  3. Next, launch your dedicated graphics card control panel (In this case, Nvidia Control Panel).
  4. Select Manage 3D settings from the navigation pane on the left.manage 3d settings in nvidia.
  5. Choose a High-performance NVIDIA processor from the Preferred graphics processor dropdown menu.

Users were quick to tell us that the low GPU usage with DirectX 12 games registered in Task Manager was inaccurate. Task Manager is not considered an accurate performance monitoring tool.

All this could be true, but you can always verify these claims by seeking a second opinion. We have an excellent library of other performance monitoring tools to inform you of your GPU usage.

If the GPU is showing 0 in the Task Manager and a different figure in another platform, you can relax. However, if the results concur, the above methods are sufficient to help you ensure your GPU is not underutilized.

And that’s pretty much it. Don’t hesitate to reach out using the comment box for any additional suggestions or clarifications.

How to Mail Merge from Microsoft Outlook

Sometimes you need to send bulk emails, which is why many want to know how to mail merge from Microsoft Outlook.

This is a rather useful technique since it allows you to send personalized mass emails to multiple recipients.  So today, we’re going to show you how to use this feature properly.

What is a mail merge?

  • Mail merge in Outlook is a process of sending bulk emails, but each email is personalized according to its recipient.
  • This is achieved through placeholders, and each placeholder can utilize the data from the Excel table to customize emails.
  • By doing so, you can send personalized emails to multiple email addresses and perform email campaigns.
  • Each recipient will get a somewhat unique email message specially tailored to him.
  • Using this feature, you can send bulk emails and save time while having each email personalized according to its recipient.

What are the benefits of personalized emails?

  • By writing personalized emails, you will appear more trustworthy to your clients.
  • Personalized emails will also boost the engagement rate.
  • Your recipients might also feel more valued since they won’t get the same generic emails.

What are the fundamental steps of mail merge?

  • Creating an email template with placeholders.
  • Creating a spreadsheet or database with the necessary information.
  • Linking the email template with the database.
  • Sending bulk emails to multiple email addresses.

How do I do a mail merge in Outlook?

1. Prepare the email template in Microsoft Word

  1. Open Word and create a new document.
  2. Navigate to the Mailings tab and choose Start Mail Merge. Lastly, select E-mail Messages.
  3. Now enter your message and place the placeholders at the desired locations. Placeholders are represented by curly brackets.

Speaking of templates, many reported Do you want to save changes to the document template in Word, but if you encounter this issue, we have a special guide for it.

2. Set up placeholder data in Microsoft Excel

  1. Open Excel and create a new sheet.
  2. You’ll need to create several columns. For practical reasons, use the names you used as placeholders for column headers.
  3. Make sure to create an Email column that contains all the addresses of your recipients.
  4. Fill in your data.
  5. After doing that, save your file.

Before saving, you might want to check our XLS vs XLSX guide to learn more about different Excel formats.

  1. Go back to Word.
  2. Next, go to the Mailings tab. Choose Select Recipients and then select Use an Existing List.
     
  3. Now select the xls file that you created in the previous section.
  4. Check the First row of data contains column headers and click OK.
  5. Now select your placeholder and choose Insert Merge Field. Select the appropriate field that matches the placeholder name.
  6. Repeat this for all placeholders.

After doing that, let’s preview our emails.

4. Preview your mail merge

  1. In the Mailings tab, click on Preview Results.
     
  2. You should now see how your email message will look using the data from the Excel file.
  3. You can use the arrow keys to check different messages and their data.

5. Send the messages

  1. In Word, click on Finish & Merge and select Send Email Messages.
     
  2. In the To field, select your Email column. Next, enter the desired Subject line. Lastly, set Send records to All.
  3. Click OK to save the merge.
  4. Go to Outlook and open the Outbox folder.
  5. Lastly, click on Send/Receive All Folders and wait for your emails to send.

 As you can see, it’s pretty simple to perform a mail merge process using the Office software.

By using this feature, you can circumvent the too many recipients error message in Outlook, so be sure to try it.

Where is mail merge located in Outlook?

The mail merge feature isn’t available in Outlook. Instead, it’s performed using Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Firstly, you need to create your email template in Word and add your data to an Excel sheet. After you link the two, you link the email template with Outlook.

This will cause all emails generated from the template to appear in the Outbox folder in Outlook, and you can send them from there.

If you ever wanted to know how to mail merge from Microsoft Outlook, this is the best and the simplest way to do it.

Keep in mind that this feature might not work if the Outlook data file cannot be accessed or if This file is in use message appears.

In case you’re looking for something more advanced, why not use CRM email marketing software instead?

Lastly, don’t miss our latest guide on how to mail merge from Excel to Word for more information about this process.

Did you ever use mail merging? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

5 Best Server Hosting for Pixelmon [Quick Guide]

If you like Minecraft and Pokémon, then the Pixelmon mod for Minecraft is the ultimate mod to have. It adds all the Pokemon-related items and mobs to your Minecraft game.

So, whether you want to catch your favorite Pokémon or fight against the one you dislike the most, you can do it all with Pixelmon mod. So, which is the best server hosting for Pixelmon?

The good thing about Minecraft is that it allows you to choose between different servers whenever you want. And if you want to play Pixelmon, you will need a fast server to host the game.

In this guide, we have listed the best server hosting for Pixelmon Minecraft mod. So let’s get started.

What is the best server hosting for Pixelmon?

Apex Hosting – Great plug-ins

best server hosting for Pixelmon

Apex Hosting offers a simple way to create Minecraft servers. It hosts over 300,000 Minecraft servers with high-clock speed CPUs and SSD storage powering the lag-free server.

With Apex Hosting, you can install and play the best mod packs with a single click. It also offers DDoS protection, low latency due to the data center worldwide, and instant setup. There are some premade game types like Factions, McMMO, Capture the Flag, and more.

You can combine your own mods or try other popular mod packs from Feed the Beast, ATL, Voice, Wrath, Technic. Included plugins such as Essentials, World Edit, and more to use.

Other features offered by Apex Hosting include the ability to generate a new map with any seed you want or use premade worlds, a control panel to manage your server, and resources to customize your game.

Key features of Apex Hosting:

  • Support for Essentials, World Edit, and more plugins 
  • 100+ available modes
  • Premade mini-games
  • Free subdomain, automated backups, and control panel 
Apex Hosting

Apex Hosting

Easily create, manage and edit your Pixelmon servers with this amazing software today.
Check priceVisit website

Shockbyte – Very affordable

Shockbyte is another popular Minecraft hosting with affordable plans and easy upgrading options. Similar to Apex Hosting, it also comes with DDoS protection, 100% uptime, free subdomains, MCPS, MCPE cross-compatibility, etc.

All the Minecraft hosting from the company support Java Edition and Bedrock Edition with one-click install, with an automatic update system. Some of the Minecraft server versions supported include Spigot, CraftBukkit, Forge, Sponge, BungeeCord, Vanilla, and Snapshots.

Additionally, all the Minecraft servers are hosted with Shockbyte support mod packs such as Feed the Beast, Technic, ATLauncher, and more. If you want to install a custom mod pack, you can access the server via the control panel to upload Minecraft server types.

Key features of Shockbyte:

  • Support almost all the mod packs and custom mods
  • Custom JAR support 
  • Full FTP access and control panel 
  • Java version switcher 
Shockbyte

Shockbyte

Take advatange of the features of Shockbyte while easily managing your Pixelmon servers today!
Check priceVisit website

Host Havoc – DDoS protection

If you are looking for a host that offers a vast range of servers, Host Havoc is an excellent choice. It offers all the features of major Minecraft servers, including 99% uptime, instant setup, fast SSD storage, DDoS protection, and high-speed CPU processors. 

Host Havoc offers offsite backup that contains all your configuration, content, and databases. It also supports 400+ different apps, including WordPress, Joomla, Magneto, Drupal, X Mod, MyBB with a single click. 

The control panel offers access to File Transfer Protocol, Multiple PHP versions, configure modules, and view statistics and errors.

Key features of Host Havoc:

  • Automatic mod pack installer 
  • Scheduled backups 
  • DDoS protection and FTP access 
  • Works with all modpacks
Host Havoc

Host Havoc

Explore the wonderful world of Pixelmon on a stable server with this great software.
Check priceVisit website

ScalaCube – Easy to start a server

ScalaCube specializes in game server hosting, including Minecraft. Some of the servers offered by the host include BedRock, PocketMine, and Nukkit. Using the control panel, you can easily make your own Minecraft server. 

Apart from multiple pocket edition servers, you also get a pre-installed and configured website and forum to monitor active players on the server. The servers support over 13 mini-games, such as SkyWars, TnTRun, and others.

Additionally, features by ScalaCube include Free MySQL, Plugin/Mod support, modpack support, custom PHAR and JAR, a custom launcher, and a backup system.

Key features of ScalaCube:

  • Unlimited slots and multiple servers
  • Free DDoS protection 
  • Full File Access and Control Panel
  • Plugin, modpack, BungeeCord support 

⇒ Get ScalaCube

Aternos – Free server

If you are just getting started with the Minecraft server, Aternos offers free Minecraft servers. It offers a personal Minecraft server that you can set up to play with friends without any unnecessary limits.

Aternos servers include a fully customizable server, mods and plugins support, DDoS protection, automatic backups, the ability to add adventure maps, parkour or the latest mini-games and customer support. 

Aternos supports Java Edition games that include Vanilla, Snapshots, Paper/Bukkit, Spigot/Bukkit, GlowStone, etc. There are also Bedrock Edition games, such as BedRock and Pocketmine.

Key features of Aternos:

  • You can create your free SMP
  • Custom domain and share access
  • Unlimited slots 
  • Add-ons and data packs with real-time console

⇒ Get Aternos

So, these are some of the best server hosting for Pixelmon Minecraft mod. While the free servers are good for absolute beginners, paid solutions have no-nonsense unlimited access and better support, speed, and lag-free experience.

What is your favorite server hosting for Pixelmon mod or Minecraft? Let us know in the comments.

What is Error Code 53 in Steam & How to Quickly Fix it?

Some of our readers get the message The Steam servers are too busy to handle your request for [game title]. Error code (53) when trying to launch a game on the Steam app. 

This error code usually occurs for newly released games and restricts the user from accessing the game he intends to play and may even disrupt the online multiplayer sessions abruptly. 

If you are struggling with the same problem in Steam, try the solutions listed in this guide. 

Why do I get the error code 53 in Steam?

Below are the possible causes why you encounter the error code 53 when launching games on the Steam app: 

  • Server overload – Steam servers may not be able to handle requests when there is heavy traffic during game release. 
  • Misconfigured network settings – Incorrect network settings often lead to connectivity issues which cause problems in connecting to the game server. 
  • Server outage – Temporary server outage for maintenance purposes may also throw the error code 53 when you try launching or updating a game. 
  • Conflicting third-party apps – Third-party antiviruses and firewalls often restrict your system requests citing security purposes.

Now that you are aware of the possible reasons for the Steam error code 53, let’s proceed to check out the solutions.

How do I fix the error code 53 in Steam? 

You are recommended to try these simple workarounds which have worked for several users before proceeding to move complex solutions. 

  • Restart your computer to fix the trivial bugs in the system. 
  • You can visit the official Steam status page to check whether there is a Steam server outage.
  • Switch to a more reliable internet connection, such as a mobile hotspot, and try again. 
  • Enable a VPN service, such as Private Internet Access (PIA), to access the geographically restricted games in your location. And if you’re using a VPN while receiving this error message, try turning it off temporarily.

If you still run into the Steam error code 53 when launching or updating a game, try the solutions listed below. 

1. Temporarily disable real-time protection

  1. Launch the Settings app using the Windows + I key combination.
  2. Switch to the Privacy & security settings from the left sidebar and then choose the Windows security option from the right side. Steam error code 53
  3. Next, choose the Virus and threat protection option. Steam error code 53
  4. Click the Manage settings option located under the Virus and threat protection settings section.
  5. Toggle Off the switch for the Real-time protection feature. Steam error code 53

Windows Defender often blocks the game executable files considering them to be suspicious, thus the error code 53 in Steam. Disabling the real-time protection settings will ensure that Windows Security does not restrict the game from contacting the server. 

In case you have a third-party antivirus installed, you can disable it as well during the game sessions.

2. Allow games through Windows Firewall 

  1. Press the Windows key to launch the Start menu, type control panel in the search bar, and press Enter to quickly access the Contol Panel. Steam error code 53
  2. Select Category in the View by drop-down on the top right corner and select System and Security option. Steam error code 53
  3. Select the Windows Defender Firewall option. 
  4. Select the Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall option located on the left sidebar. Steam error code 53
  5. Press the Change settings button. Steam error code 53
  6. Scroll down the list of apps and look for the game EXE file. If the file missing, click the Allow another app button. 
  7. Browse to the location of its installation folder on the next popup, select the .EXE file, and press the Add button. 
  8. Select the checkboxes listed under the Private and Public options and hit OK to save the changes. Steam error code 53

You may get the error code 53 when launching the games if the Windows firewall is preventing the executable file of the game from launching successfully on the Steam app. So allowing the EXE game files should fix the problem.

If you’re using a third-party firewall, use its settings to include this exception as well, or disable it temporarily.

3. Reset the network settings 

  1. Bring up the Settings app using the Windows + I shortcut keys. 
  2. Choose Network and internet option from the left sidebar and then select the Advanced Network settings option from the right. Steam error code 53
  3. Scroll down to the More settings section and click the Network reset option. 
  4. Finally, press the Reset Now button located on the new page. Steam error code 53

As described on different forums, misconfigured networking settings often interfere with the launch of the games on the Steam app. Resetting the network settings will restore the networking components to their default values so that you do not get the error code 53 in Steam. 

4. Change the download region 

  1. Launch the Steam app on your Windows PC. 
  2. Select the Steam option on the top menu bar and then the Settings option from the drop-down menu. Steam error code 53
  3. Select the Downloads option from the left sidebar. 
  4. Expand the Download Region drop-down and select a different region. Steam error code 53
  5. Save your changes and then restart Steam to see whether or not error 53 shows up during the game launch. 

There may be some server issue in the current download region for which your request is not being processed by it. Changing the download region should improve the download speed and resolve the latency issues.

There you go! The Steam error 53 error should now be resolved so that you can enjoy your favorite games. 

In case you encounter an error in initializing and updating the transaction, refer to this guide for possible solutions.

If you have any queries, feedback, or comments for us, do let us know in the comments section. 

Driver Update keeps Popping up? Stop it in 5 Simple Steps

Usually, Windows downloads and installs the latest drivers for your PC. However, if you keep a Driver Update prompt keeps popping up, especially from Slimware Utilities, that might be adware causing troubles.

Sometimes, this message comes from an app called Driver Update. Irrespective of the format it takes, you can stop it for good with the solutions in this guide.

Why do I keep getting Driver Update popups?

The reasons you keep getting popups to update your driver are within a close circle. Below are the notable ones:

  • Presence of adware on your PC – The most prominent cause of this issue is the presence of adware on your PC. You might have unknowingly installed the software while downloading an app from a third-party website. You need to perform a malware scan on your PC to remove any unwanted apps.
  • Driver Update redirect on your browser – In some cases, this solicitation can keep showing up on your browser because you once visited the site. This is because the malicious website has already added a redirect link to your browser. You might need to reset your browser to fix this.

How do I stop the driver update prompt from popping up?

1. Uninstall Driver Update and other software

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
    appwiz driver update keeps popping up
  2. Right-click the Driver Update or any other Slimware Utilities apps.
  3. Finally, select Uninstall and follow the onscreen instructions to remove it.
    uninstall

The first thing to do if the Driver Update message keeps popping on your PC is to remove the app causing it. According to users, the pop-ups come from either the Driver Update or any other Slimware Utilities app.

So, you need to remove these apps and other unwanted software.

2. Perform a malware scan

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type virus, and select Virus & threat protection.
    virus
  2. Click the Scan options link.
    scan options driver update keeps popping up
  3. Finally, choose the Full scan or Microsoft Defender Offline scan option and click Scan now.
    scan now

If you can’t remove the problematic app or the Driver Update request keeps popping up, it means the effect has gotten to your registry and other parts of your PC.

You need to perform a deep malware scan to remove even the most adware file. Thus, you may need to clear the risks with antivirus third-party software that can detect new emerging threats and malware.

Simply remove driver update pop-ups by running a comprehensive system scan and diagnosing it. In this way, you can terminate any phishing or malware issues on your PC.

➡️ Get TotalAV

3. Remove unwanted tasks in Task Scheduler

  1. Press the Windows key, type task, and select Task Scheduler.
    task scheduler
  2. Select Task Scheduler Library in the left pane.
    library driver update keeps popping up
  3. Now, select any rare tasks in the middle and click the Actions tab.
  4. Check the Details in the section below.
    details
  5. If you find any https://site.address redirect next to your browser name, right-click the task and select Delete.

If the Driver Update request keeps showing up when you restart your PC, it might be because there is a task scheduled for it in the Task Scheduler.

You need to delete the task and restart your PC to fix this.

4. Remove the Driver Update redirect

  1. Right-click the browser shortcut you are getting the update message from and select Properties.
    properties
  2. Click the Shortcut tab at the top.
  3. Now, remove any https://site.address at the end of the browser path in the Target field.
  4. Finally, click the Apply button, followed by OK.
    shortcut driver update keeps popping up

If the Driver Update prompt keeps popping up when you launch your browser or visit a website, it is likely that the website causing the annoyance has a redirect in your browser shortcut.

You need to remove this redirect to restore normalcy on your browser.

5. Reset your browser

  1. Launch your browser and click the Menu button.
  2. Select the Settings option.
    menu settings
  3. Now, click the Reset settings option in the left pane.
  4. Select Reset settings to their original defaults.
    reset settings
  5. Finally, click the Reset settings button.
    reset button driver update keeps popping up

If removing the redirect from your browser shortcut does not stop the Driver Update prompt from popping up, you need to reset your browser.

This will help you remove all the settings, shortcuts, and temporary site data.

If the solutions above fail to stop the Driver Update pop-up, you need to perform a clean install of your OS.

This is because the adware might have made too many changes to your PC, making it difficult to remove it.

We have reached the end of this detailed guide. You should now be able to stop the Driver Update message to keep popping up on your PC, provided you follow the instructions above.

Similarly, if you actually need to update your drivers, check our list of dedicated driver updaters for the best software to use.

Were you able to get rid of this issue? Let us know the solution that helped you in the comments below.

How to Easily Manage Bookmarks on Opera Browser

If you want your bookmarks to be all organized and lined up in the browser, be sure you can fully personalize and manage bookmarks on Opera without any effort.

Bookmarks help you save your favorite web pages and quickly access them whenever you want. There are numerous ways to organize your bookmarks in Opera. You can bookmark a web page, create folders, give your bookmark a new name, and organize them so you can view them later without being a lost wanderer.

Opera focuses on browser customization, UX elements, and AI features. The browser lets you manage the bookmarks easily from the settings.

You can save your bookmarks and access them from other browsers or devices, when you’re commuting, for example. There are bookmark exporting features to keep your favorites in one place.

Opera One

Opera One

Take control of the digital bookmarks and organize them seamlessly with this revamped browser.

Can you make bookmark folders in Opera?

It is certainly possible. You can simply make bookmark folders in Opera by pressing the folder icon in the bookmarks settings. Once you created the folder, it will show up inside the Bookmarks Manager panel.

So, next time you want to bookmark any web page, you just have to press the heart icon provided in the URL section.

To create a bookmark folder. Press the heart icon in the URL of that webpage and Bookmark Manager will open up. While you’re still inside the Bookmark Bar, click on the Folder menu beside the Bookmark bar option to create a folder. Give your folder a name so that you could easily find it the next time you’re bookmarking a page.

How do I organize bookmarks in the Opera browser?

In the next part, we’re going to show some ways using which you can manage bookmarks in the Opera browser and organize your favorite web pages for quick access. Let’s get to it!

1. Access your bookmarks on Opera

1.1 From the browser sidebar

  1. Open a new tab in the browser.
  2. Now, hover the mouse cursor on the left side to see the sidebar.
    open Opera bookmarks
  3. Go to the heart icon and click on it.
  4. In the manager panel, click on the Bookmarks bar to expand all of them.
    sidebar bookmarks Opera

2.2 From the navigation bar

  1. Click on the heart icon next to the URL bar.
    bookmark heart Opera
  2. After you bookmarked the website, the dialog box will appear.
    dialog box opera
  3. Select the View in Bookmarks button to open the tab.
  4. In this tab, select the Bookmarks option and to all your saved webpages
    bookmarks manager panel
  5. See the Speed Dial bookmarks or Other bookmarks folder below.

2. Rename bookmarks in Opera

  1. Access the bookmarks from the sidebar panel.
  2. Go to the bookmarked website you want to rename and click the three dots.
    rename bookmarks
  3. Now, select the full text and rename it according to your needs.
    renamed bookmark
  4. Click wherever on the screen to save the changes.

3. Import or export bookmarks

  1. Open the full bookmarks view from the sidebar option.
    Open the full bookmarks view
  2. In the full view, click on the Import/Export button below.
    Import Export button
  3. Choose Import or Export to start the process in the settings.
  4. Tick the boxes for bookmarks and press the Import button.
    import bookmark option
  5. Wait until all the information is transferred from another browser.
  6. Repeat the steps for the other process.

4. Show and hide bookmarks in Opera

  1. Click on the equalizer button to open Easy Setup.
  2. Scroll down to find the Layout section and Show bookmark bar option.
  3. Toggle on/off depending on what you need to do.
  4. The bookmark bar will show on the top bar with all your websites.
    Show bookmark bar
  5. You can hide it by right-clicking on the top bar and Hide bookmarks bar.
    Hide bookmarks

Now you know that the Opera browser gives you plenty of methods to easily organize and streamline your bookmarks. Not only that, it now offers some AI functionalities like AI prompts using which you can transform your search queries for better results.

In case you have problems with bookmarks, we also have a guide on what to do if Opera GX bookmarks aren’t showing, so don’t miss it.

Also, don’t miss our guide on Opera favorites if you want to know how to feature works.

In the end, we wish that our guide proved helpful for your browsing needs on Opera and now you can bookmark and save your sites effortlessly. For other curiosities, you can always reach us in the comments section.

Microsoft HoloLens 3 might finally be released in 2026

The HoloLens devices are some of Microsoft’s most underestimate products. The VR/AR headset runs on Windows 10 and Windows 11, and it’s very much of use to many professionals, including medical professionals.

Recently, Microsoft announced that HoloLens 2 will support Windows 11, and the update also brought a lot of new features to the device. The update to Windows 11 sparked a conversation around HoloLens 3, the next VR/AR headset that the Redmond-based tech giant should put out in the market.

However, there was a time when HoloLens 3 was officially out of business, and Microsoft announced that it will be shutting down the team behind the product. But, of course, some things have changed meanwhile, and the Redmond-based tech giant is supposedly working on a new patent for HoloLens 3.

Wipo’s Patentscope department has recently released a patent that seems very close to the HoloLens’ design. The patent, which is available online, has been ordered by Microsoft, and a team of specialists worked on it. Although it does not have a specific name, its codename is WO2023075953 – Modular Head Mounted Device. Could this be HoloLens 3?

Will Microsoft release HoloLens 3?

The patent envisioned a VR/AR headset that includes a standard interface from where you can connect it to different other devices.microsoft hololens 3

The modular sensor and display module may include a standard interface for attachment to various fit systems, including, for example, headband, VR headset, glasses temples, helmet, and the like

If the patent is indeed intended for HoloLens 3, then it seems the device is far more user-friendly than HoloLens, or HoloLens 2. Plus, it is also patented to connect it and use it together with other system configurations.

According to the patent, you’ll be able to use it with your smartphones, smart watches, tablet computing devices, special-purpose hardware devices, network appliances, and so on.

Microsoft might release a more user-friendly HoloLens in light of Apple’s new Vision Pro VR/AR headset. If you don’t know, Apple will release its Vision Pro device next year, and it promises to revolutionize VR/AR headsets. However, some agree that they’re far too expensive for what they’re actually offering.

But the device did reignite the flame and the excitement around such devices, and if this patent offers any clue, then Microsoft will step into the game with a new improved HoloLens.

Considering the Redmond-based tech giant’s involvement and investments in AI research, the new Microsoft HoloLens 3 will most surely benefit from an enhanced Copilot or a similar AI tool.

Should we be excited about Microsoft HoloLens 3? Well, we should be, and rightfully so.

But what do you think about it? Let us know in the comments section below.

What Happens If You Don’t Activate Windws: Disatvantages and Restrictions

If you don’t activate your Windows copy, expect restrictions. Your OS will still work, but without an activation key you’ll have fewer customization options, limited updates, inability to upgrade for free, and a few other hiccups.

Below we’ll discuss all the disadvantages of not activating your Windows license, how long Windows will work without activation, and more info you need to know about this topic.

Disantvantages of not activating Windows

1. Limited personalization options

personalize windows license not activated

One of the biggest things you lose when your Windows license is not activated is the ability to customize your PC. There is no way to add that unique touch to your PC to make it truly feel like yours.

Below are some of the personalization features that will be unavailable to you:

  • Changing desktop wallpaper – If you have changed your desktop during the trial period, it will automatically change to the default one. You will not be able to change it again till you activate your PC.
  • Using Dark Mode – If you have not activated your OS, you cannot use Windows Dark Mode. You will only have access to the default light mode.
  • Changing themes – While you can download a series of themes from the Microsoft Store and other official sources, you won’t be able to apply them.
  • Taskbar Customization – Another personalization feature you lose is the ability to customize your Taskbar. This means you can’t hide it and change the icon sizes, among other features.
  • Lock screen customization – Many users like to change their lock screen background to something personal. This is absent on unactivated Windows versions.

Here’s our guide on how many times you can use a Windows 11 key if you need more information about that.

2. Limited updates

update

While you will keep getting regular updates even when your Windows license is not activated, they will be limited. Sometimes, you might miss out on some important security updates.

Also, you might be late to get the latest patches for bug fixes. You might also not get updates with new features early enough or at all.

This can be problematic, especially if you encounter issues with some Microsoft apps.

3. The annoying Activate Windows watermark

watermark

After the trial period to activate your Windows license, you will automatically have a fixed Activate Windows prompt in the bottom right corner of your screen.

This will always be present on your screen, irrespective of the app or page you open. This is to always serve as a reminder that you need to activate your OS.

However, this can be frustrating, especially if you take screenshots or do other activities that require you to use the full screen.

4. Frequent activation reminder

When you are nearing your trial period, you start getting your Windows license will expire soon prompts. After this, you start getting notifications in the Settings app about the need to activate your Windows license.

You can also get this notification while using other apps, which can cause distractions.

5. Inability to upgrade to another Windows version for free

Usually, you can upgrade from one version of Windows to another once it is available for free. An example is upgrading from Windows 10 to 11, provided you meet Windows 11 requirements and specifications.

However, this is only available for users that have activated their Windows license. Users with unactivated copies of the OS will need to perform a full restore even if they meet the requirements.

Let’s get right to it.

What does Windows Activation do?

Windows Activation basically confirms that your Windows copy is genuine. Also, it ensures that you are not using a single Windows copy on more than the permitted number of devices by Microsoft Software License Terms.

Aside from this, it gives you unrestricted access to everything the OS has to offer, from customization to regular updates. Finally, in most cases, if you activate your Windows license on a version of Windows, your will be able to use it on later upgrades.

Is it okay to use Windows without activation?

It is legally permitted to use Windows without activating the license. Microsoft stopped the experiment of rendering Windows useless after the trial period with Windows XP and Vista.

This is because users were constantly cracking the OS and creating pirated copies, leading to a loss of revenue for the company. Ever since users can use Windows without activation after the trial period ends, but with limitations.

How long will Windows work without activation?

You can use Windows for as long as you like without activating the license after the trial period. You will still have access to most of the features.

Also, you will be able to use your device for the most important functions. However, this will remain so provided that you never try to activate Windows with a cracked or pirated key.

These are some of the major disadvantages of not activating your Windows license. While it might be tempting to keep using the unactivated copy, it is undoubtedly better to purchase the one-time license to have access to the unlimited features the OS offers.

If you have activated Windows, but it keeps asking for activation, you can restore the key by following the solutions in our guide.

Also, if Windows keeps asking for activation after a hardware change, check our comprehensive guide to restore activation. Do you have any other activation-related issues? Feel free to let us know in the comments below.

Windows 11 Freezes When Alt-Tabing? 5 Ways to Fix It

If your Windows 11 PC freezes when you press Alt + Tab while playing a game, or working on multiple apps, this guide can help! We will explore expert-recommended methods to fix the problem right after discussing the causes.

What causes the Alt Tab freezing on Windows 11?

There could be various reasons for the computer freezing while playing issue; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

  • Corrupted system files – If the system files on your PC are damaged or affected by viruses, it could cause all kinds of issues. Try running the SFC & DISM scans to restore the files.
  • Incompatible software – The outdated software on your computer could cause the freezing issue. To avoid that, uninstall the incompatible ones.
  • New Alt-Tab system – The new Alt-Tab system was introduced with Windows 11 and could be buggy. To fix it, you can use Registry Editor to revert to the old one.
  • GPU feature – Sometimes, GPU features like Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling can cause the issue. Try turning off the feature to get rid of the problem.
  • Virus infection – If your computer is infected with malware, it may interfere with the normal functioning of your device. Try running a deep scan using a reliable antivirus tool.

Now that you know the causes of the issue, let us check out the methods to resolve the problem.

How do I fix the Alt-Tab freezing in Windows 11?

Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:

  • Restart your computer.
  • Ensure you have no pending Windows updates.
  • Run a malware scan to remove the viruses.
  • Quit Discord or other game streaming services.
  • Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
  • Check if you are logged in with a user with admin rights.

Once you have done these, move to the detailed steps mentioned below.

1. Disable the Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling feature

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Display.System, then click Display windows 11 freeze when alt tab
  3. Scroll down to Related settings and click Graphics.Graphics - related settings
  4. Under Default settings, click the Change default graphics settings link.Change default graphics settings
  5. Next, toggle the switch to turn off Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling.hardware-accelerated-GPU-scheduling-off
  6. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.

2. Run SFC & DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and select Run as administrator to open Command Prompt with admin privileges.CMD elevated
  2. Click Yes on the UAC prompt.
  3. Type the following command to scan & replace the corrupted system files and hit Enter: sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD
  4. Copy & paste the following commands one by one to restore Windows OS image files and press Enter after every command:
    • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
      Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
      Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
      DISM windows 11 freeze when alt tab
  5. Reboot your PC to save the changes.

As a more effective alternative, you can try an automatic repair tool to scan your PC for corrupt or missing files and replace them with fully functional elements.

3. Revert to the old Alt-Tab system

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Regedit windows 11 freeze when alt tab
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
  4. Right-click Explorer, select New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.New DWORD
  5. Once created, name it AltTabSettings.
  6. To modify the Value data, double-click AltTabSettings, locate the Value data, and change the value from 0 to 1.regedit_Alttab windows 11 freeze when alt tab
  7. Click OK and restart your computer.
  8. Once the computer is back online, launch the game and check if the issue persists.

4. Uninstall the recent Windows update

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Windows Update, then click Update history.Windows Update 2
  3. Under Related settings, click Uninstall updates.Windows Update - Update history windows 11 freeze when alt tab
  4. Locate the recent update installed, and click Uninstall.Uninstall update
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

5. Perform a repair install

Note icon NOTE
Before moving to the steps, ensure you have backed up all your essential files.

5.1 Download the ISO file

  1. Go to Windows 11 website, locate Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO), select the edition from the drop-down menu, and click Download Now.chrome_Download ISO windows 11 freeze when alt tab
  2. Next, choose the language and click Confirm.chrome_Confirm
  3. Click Download again to initiate the process.

5.2 Install the repair upgrade

  1. Press Windows + E to open the Windows File Explorer.
  2. Locate the downloaded file and click Mount. You will see a Virtual DVD drive as soon as it is complete.Mount drive and double-click the file
  3. Go to the DVD drive, double-click the file to start the process.
  4. If you see a security warning, click Open.
  5. On the following prompt, click Yes.
  6. You will get a series of instructions on the Windows 11 Setup window; follow all of them until you reach the Ready to Install page.
  7. Once there, click Install.

Now Windows will copy the files and reboot your computer, and once it is up, the repair upgrade will start. The process may take around half an hour, and your computer may restart multiple times, so please be patient. Once done, you will get the sign-in screen, log in and use your computer as you like.

So, these are the methods to fix the Windows 11 freeze when you press Alt–Tab and resume playing your favorite games.

If you are facing a similar issue, like Windows 11 freezing randomly, we recommend you check out this guide to find quick solutions.

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

What is PaceKeyChain File & Why is it in the User Folder?

Multiple users have found the PaceKeyChain file inside their User folder and are confused about what this file means and what should be done with this file.

In this guide, we will explain to you what the PaceKeyChain file is and whether you can remove it from your computer or not. Let us dive into it.

What is the PaceKeyChain file?

We did a lot of research and found out that the PaceKeyChain is a type of encrypted file created by a software called iLok.

iLok is a software that helps you manage authorizations. You can use this license manager which will help you activate/deactivate your licenses to manage your workflow. All iLok-enabled licenses can be easily activated using iLok USB Smart Key

Why is the PaceKeyChain file inside the User folder?

There is no exact reason why the PaceKeyChain file is inside the User folder. Chances are that someone else was using your computer and the user forgot about this software.

Also, chances are that malware has infected your computer and causing such issues on your computer. If you have recently installed new software on your PC, then you can also try to uninstall that program which will help you find out if this file was created because of a software conflict or not.

How can I remove the PaceKeyChain file from my PC?

1. Perform a virus scan

  1. To open the Start menu press the Win key.
  2. Type Windows Security and open the appropriate result.
  3. Select Virus & threat protection.
  4. Click on Quick Scan.
  5. Let the process complete and apply the fixes.
  6. You can also choose Scan options and choose Full scan for in-depth scanning, and after that, restart your PC.

You should scan your PC frequently to ensure that it isn’t affected by any virus or malware. Because malware or virus can corrupt or delete important files and also introduce unwanted files on your computer.

Do note that the Windows Security tool isn’t that effective in tackling viruses or malware, especially modern ones.

To fix this, we would suggest you check out the TotalAV tool because it offers one of the highest detection rates and comprehensive protection and prevention.

⇒ Get TotalAV

2. Uninstall the software

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Launch Control Panel.Control Panel start menu quickfontcache.dll
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Select iLok and hit the Uninstall button at the top.uninstall program roblox configuring stuck
  5. Follow the on-screen steps to remove the program from your PC.
  6. Restart your computer and check if the PaceKeyChain file is still there in the User folder or not.

You can also try removing the iLok program from your computer as this is the culprit for the PaceKeyChain file in your computer. Simply remove the program and check if this fixes the issue or not.

However, if someone else is using your computer and installed this tool, you will need a master password to uninstall it.

We also have a guide that lists down some of the best uninstaller programs that you can opt for on your computer.

3. Perform a system restore

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Create a restore point and open the appropriate result.
  3. Click on the drive where you have installed the OS and choose System Restore.system restore
  4. Select the restore point and select Next.restore to fix websites opening automatically in Chrome
  5. Click Finish to begin the restore process.

Well, you can also use the system restore process to take back your system to a time when the iLok program wasn’t installed on your computer.

Do note that the process will work only if you have a system restore point already created on your PC. To learn that, you can read the guide on how to create a system restore point.

If nothing works, then you would need to reinstall Windows OS on your computer. For your convenience, we have a guide that explains how you can reinstall Windows 11 in 2 easy steps.

That is it from us in this guide. We would like you to check out our detailed guide on what is view.exe file and whether or not it should be removed from your computer.

Let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions resolved your issue of the PaceKeyChain file.

Why is Toshiba External Hard Drive not Showing up? [Solved]

Toshiba produces some of the best external hard drives available today. However, like most drives, it is prone to inaccessibility and operational problems. One such problem is the drive not showing up in File Explorer, preventing users from using the storage device.

If your Toshiba external drive is not showing, this article will briefly overview some of the common causes of the issue and provide steps to help you resolve it.

What causes Toshiba’s external hard drive not to show up?

Some of the significant causes preventing the drive from showing up are:

  • USB port malfunction or improper connection – USB ports can get faulty due to age, dust, or hardware failure; if this happens, devices connected to those ports will not show up on your PC.
  • Unsupported drivers – If the drive drivers running on your PC are not supported by the OS, it can prevent connected devices from functioning correctly.
  • Outdated system drivers – USB ports work in sync with drivers to identify the type of the external device connected; if the drivers are outdated, the connected drive might not appear.
  • Corrupt external drive – If your Toshiba external drive is corrupt or faulty, it’ll likely not appear on your PC when connected.
  • Absence of drive letter – External drives are assigned to be recognized in File Explorer; if the drive letter is missing or incorrect, it can prevent Windows 11 from recognizing the drive.

Having identified the causes, let’s explore the solutions below.

How do I backup/recover data from a Toshiba external hard drive?

Before you can troubleshoot your external drives, you should focus on backing up the existing data on the drive. This is because once you start troubleshooting the external drive, it becomes vulnerable to disk failure, leading to complete data loss.

Therefore, before you attempt to fix the Toshiba external drive not showing up issue, you must back up the files on the drive. Our guide on how to use the backup settings in Windows 11 will help you through the process.

So, you can use any of our recommended third-party recovery software tools here to recover data from your hard drive.

How do I fix Toshiba external hard drive not showing up?

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

  • Reconnect the Toshiba drive USB cable to other ports.
  • If you’re using a USB hub, try connecting the Toshiba drive directly to one of the USB ports of your PC.
  • Connect the Toshiba drive to a different PC using the original cable to see if the problem originates from the drive or the machine.

If the error persists after applying the above fixes, try the following tweaks.

1. Reassign the letter for the Toshiba drive

  1. Right-click on the Start menu and click on Disk Management.
  2. Right-click the partition on your Toshiba external drive in the next window and click Change Drive Letter and Paths.
  3. Select the existing drive letter and click Change. If there is no drive letter, click on Add.
  4. Select a new drive letter and click OK.
  5. Click OK to confirm your changes and restart your PC to see if the Toshiba external drive will appear.

If your Toshiba external drive appears in Disk Management but not File Explorer, reassigning the drive letter can help fix the bad sector issue.

Changing the drive letter allows Windows to re-read the unallocated space. You can also check out our guide on how to fix Disk management not loading.

2. Update your PC drivers & OS

  1. Press the Windows key, type in Device Manager in the search box, and hit Enter.
  2. Locate Disk drives, right-click on the drivers, and select Update driver.
  3. Click Search automatically for updated driver software, and follow the prompts to complete the update.
  4. Close the device manager, and press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  5. Then, click Windows Update and select Check for Updates. (If there are, Windows will install them automatically)
  6. Close the Settings app, and restart your PC to see if the error is fixed.

If your portable drive is not recognized by Windows, you’re running outdated drivers. Running a Windows and driver update can help you fix the Toshiba external drive not showing.

You can also choose a good driver updater tool, for example, Outbyte Driver updater, to update your drivers automatically with the latest versions.

3. Initialize the Toshiba hard drive manually

  1. Right-click on Start, and click on Disk Management.
  2. Right-click on the Toshiba external drive in the next window and click Initialize Disk.
  3. Select a partition style and click OK.
  4. Close the Disk management app and restart your PC to see if the issue is resolved.

Toshiba hard drives that have not been initialized won’t appear in File Explorer; initializing the disk can help you fix the problem. However, initializing a disk can format the drive; ensure you back up your drive before attempting this step.

4. Format the Toshiba external hard drive

  1. Right-click on Start and click on Disk Management.
  2. Select the volume of your Toshiba external drive and click Format.
  3. Check the Perform a quick format option and click OK.
  4. Click OK again to confirm your actions and wait for the drive to be formatted.

If the Toshiba external drive wasn’t appropriately formatted before being inserted into your PC, it could prevent it from showing up.

In this case, you’ll need to format the drive to make it functional with your PC. Check out what to do if you get an HDD format error.

5. Turn on the USB hub & show all hidden devices

  1. Press the Windows key, type Power Plan in the search bar, and hit Enter.
  2. Select the Choose the Power Plan option, and click Change the Plan settings.
  3. Navigate to change the advanced power settings, click on USB settings and expand the USB suspend settings option.
  4. If the option is enabled, click on Disabled and Apply.
  5. Click OK to confirm your changes, and check if the Toshiba external drive is now showing.

In some cases, the external drive might display as a hidden device preventing it from showing up in File Explorer. You can fix this by turning on a USB hub displaying all hidden devices.

Working with external hard drives is very beneficial because their portability allows you to carry so much data in a tiny piece of hardware. However, external drives can become inaccessible due to several reasons. When that happens, ensure you follow the steps in this guide to help you fix the problem.

If you’ve got any questions about your Toshiba drive or suggestions on how to fix this issue, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

How to Allow or Stop Eero From Blocking Websites

We’ve all been there. You’re trying to access a site but keep getting that dreaded message that the site can’t be reached. At first glance, it may look like a network connection issue, but after an in-depth examination, it seems Eero is blocking these sites.

If you have a large family, you know how convenient it is to use Eero instead of Wi-Fi extenders. However, blocking sites is an unwelcome side effect, but do not fret, as there is a workaround to stop it from blocking sites, as you shall see below.

Does Eero block websites?

Yes. But it’s not what you think. It’s not uncommon for your Wi-Fi to block sites, but you can easily unblock them.

The Eero network is designed to give you the best possible Wi-Fi experience. It expands your network capabilities, and you may find that some sites are blocked if suspected to be harmful.

Sites that contain malware or phishing can compromise your security and put your private information at risk. 

Eero will block them by default. This acts as an extra layer of protection because we all know how the Internet can be. Even more, enhancing your Eero router’s security can be further achieved by integrating a VPN. Learn more about the top VPNs for Eero routers and how to install them in our detailed article.

If you don’t have a good antivirus in place, you have Eero to thank for keeping its eye on you to protect your system.

Furthermore, if you have young children with devices connected to the internet, you can use this feature and enable it. This way, you can limit your children’s exposure to inappropriate content, such as pornography or violent images.

Still, you can disable this setting if you want to access a website known for its poor security practices, or Eero is just blocking even harmless sites.

How do I stop Eero from blocking websites?

  1. Launch the Eero app, preferably on your phone. The below images are from an iPhone, so on Android, the options may slightly differ.
  2. Navigate to the Discover tab.
  3. Tap on the Block and Allow sites option.
  4. Since it is blocked by default, this is the first option that you will come across. 
  5. Now, to allow a site, tap on Allowed and select Allow site.
  6. Here, you can proceed to enter the URL of the site you wish to unblock in the Domain entry.
  7. Toggle on the Network option under Allow for.
  8. Under Profiles, check the boxes of the users in your household you want to access the site, and the site will be unblocked.
  9. Also, ensure to select a reason for allowing the site so Eero can collect data and avoid such mistakes, especially if it is an inaccurate block.

Depending on factors such as the speed of your Internet connection, browser cache, and PC speed, these settings may vary in the time they take to apply.

To hasten the process, you can clear the cache and cookies on your browser or restart your PC. And that’s how to allow or stop Eero from blocking your websites. 

If you’d like to add another layer of protection, we recommend adding a VPN, and we have a list of the best VPNs for Eero routers.

We hope that Eero does not block any legitimate sites and that this guide has helped demystify the blocking issue.

Beyond managing blocked sites, enhancing your Eero router’s security can be crucial. Explore our guide and enhance Eero router security with these VPNs for advanced protection options.

Have you experienced this issue before? What steps did you take to bypass it? Let us know in the comment section below.

Output Device Does Not Support HDCP: How to Fix it

You have your snacks and cozy blanket ready to catch up on the latest trending movie, but there’s a problem. A message dubbed output device does not support HDCP appears on your screen instead of the movie.

What a bummer. Could it be an incorrect connection or a virus? And what does HDCP mean? We get to the bottom of all these questions and give you several ways to solve this error in this article.

What does it mean when my TV says it does not support HDCP?

HDCP stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection. It’s a set of encryption rules that prevent digital video and audio from being copied and converted to other formats.

When you play protected content on your computer or TV, it checks if your monitor supports HDCP before allowing you to watch or listen to anything. If your monitor does not support HDCP, then the content will not play.

That’s when you’ll get a message such as Samsung tv saying this screen does not support HDCP or this display does not support HDCP.

HDCP rules can be a hassle for any device that connects to your TV via an HDMI cable, including gaming consoles and streaming devices. If your device doesn’t support HDCP, it might not work with your TV or cause screen flickering or other issues.

It’s no surprise that most streaming sites have enforced such rules because, let’s face it, it does cost money to produce these films. You have to meet halfway by covering the costs and the streaming service to bring the content to you.

Still, streaming on the wrong hardware is not the only cause of this output device does not support HDCP error. Others include:

  • Outdated firmware – Most people never really check for firmware updates on their TVs as long as they’re working. However, this can sometimes be detrimental when you’re trying to connect to regularly updated software.
  • Faulty HDMI cable – Sometimes, it’s not that serious. It may just be a bad HDMI cable that has been through wear and tear and needs a replacement.
  • Driver conflict – Your display drivers may be outdated, causing a conflict when you try connecting.
  • You are using an unsupported device – Your TV or PC may be connected to an HDMI port that does not support HDCP or needs to be upgraded to a higher version. This is common in most older TVs. 

How do I fix HDCP not supported?

Perform the following preliminary checks first before attempting the solutions below:

  • Check your devices for HDMI ports and ensure they’re HDCP-compliant. Most will be labeled behind the TV or on the manufacturer’s booklet. It should support HDCP 2.2 or higher if you’re using an older device.
  • Check whether there are issues with your HDMI ports.
  • Unplug all cables, then plug them back in one by one, ensuring they’re securely connected at both ends.
  • Try with another HDMI cable if available. 
  • Ensure your Windows is up-to-date if you’re using your PC.

1. Update your TV firmware

  1. For this solution, we shall be using the TCL model.
  2. On your TV, find your Settings.
  3. Go to System.
  4. Click on About then select Software update.
  5. Select Network update and click on System update.
  6. Now click on Check Update. Your system will scan for any available updates.
  7. You’ll either start downloading updates or get a message that your TV is already up to date.

2. Use a DisplayPort to HDMI adapter

If your device has an HDMI port, but it’s not HDCP compliant, you may get a this TV does not support HDCP via HDMI message. You’ll need a DisplayPort to HDMI adapter. So, if you’ve been asking yourself how to make your monitor or TV HDCP compliant, this is how.

This will allow you to connect your device directly to the TV without worrying about any issues with HDCP protection or when your monitor won’t detect your HDMI. To that effect, we have the best DisplayPort to HDMI adapters recommendations that are not only pocket-friendly but also reliable.

3. Update your display drivers 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.Graphic Driver Update
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers.

This step is for those using PCs as monitors. For TVs, your display drivers are automatically updated when you update your firmware.

If the display drivers were the issue, it is better to use a third-party driver updater tool because you’re assured that you’ll get the right drivers for your PC.

We recommend the Outbyte Driver Updater for such updates because it is comprehensive. It will scan and detect incompatible, missing, outdated, or damaged drivers. Then, from its wide database, it shall match you with the right drivers.

That’s how to resolve the output device that does not support HDCP error on your TV and computer. Elsewhere, you may experience a related error where Netflix HDCP unauthorized content is disabled. No need to worry, as we have already covered ways to bypass this issue.

We’d love to hear from you for any additional thoughts or suggestions. Drop us a comment below.

Omegle Language Error: 3 Ways to Quickly Fix It

All work and no play can get monotonous at times. When you get a few minutes off work, you can take this time to connect with other like-minded people on various chat websites. Omegle is one of these, allowing you to connect to people speaking a similar language.

This is great because you can find people with similar interests with hundreds of languages available. However, a few users have complained that the language selection is a bit buggy, and they cannot connect with who they wish to be connected.

Let’s examine why this happens and how we can resolve it.

Why is the Omegle language selection not working?

If you have tried connecting to Omegle but cannot connect with people speaking a similar language as yourself, there may be a language error or an issue with the site. 

A user on one of the community forums had this to say:

So a few days ago, I logged in to omegle.com and by default Omegle was connecting with the language of the country I live in and I could connect with people speaking that language or living in that country. However, since yesterday night the functionality seems to have changed somehow and it seems that on choosing a language I am not getting connected to language speakers or people from the country where the language is spoken but rather it is translating both the messages of mine and the other participant into the chosen language.

Whereas there’s no harm in connecting with people who speak a different language, this option should be a choice for you and not forced.

Furthermore, translating messages for non-native speakers can sometimes distort the intended message and be a huge barrier to effective communication.

So why does this happen? Possible reasons include:

  • Browser settings – Apparently, if your browser language is set to a different language than the one you speak, Omegle detects that and prevents you from changing.
  • Temporary glitch – In some cases, it may just be a temporary glitch that may disappear in a few minutes.
  • You’ve been blocked – Omegle is actually monitored, so if you’re found doing any fishy business or going against the terms and conditions, your access to certain services may be limited.

How do I change the language on Omegle?

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

  • Check the server status and ensure it is running.
  • Refresh your browser.
  • Ensure you’re running the latest version of your browser.
  • Try another browser. Check out the best browsers recommended for Omegle.
  • Switch to your phone. For some users, the setting only works on phones and not on PC.

1. Change your browser settings

  1. For this step, we’ll be using the Chrome browser.
  2. Launch your Chrome browser, click on the three ellipses at the top right corner, and select Settings.Settings CHrome
  3. Click on Languages then under Preferred languages, you’ll find your default language. If you’d like to change and add another to connect to Omegle, click on Add languages.
  4. Scroll through the list or search for it then click on Add.
  5. Once added, click on the three ellipses next to your added language and select Display Google Chrome in this language.
  6. This will make it the default language. Now go back to Omegle and refresh your browser and see if the language error persists.

2. Change language over the console

  1. On the Omegle page, right-click on an empty space and select Inspect.
  2. Navigate to the Console tab.
  3. Paste the following command and hit Enter: navigator.__defineGetter__('language',function(){return 'fr';});
  4. Remember to replace ‘fr’ with your chosen language code.

A user reported that it worked for them:

Alright, so this works, BUT: You have to do this for every tab you use (so open a tab of omegle, hit F12, enter the code

This solution appears to work, but you have to repeat this step for every Omegle tab you have open. It can become a bit tedious if you have many of these open.

3. 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.

If nothing seems to work and you’re all out of options, it may be time to try Omegle alternatives. You may find that you like these even more. Plus, there’s no harm in getting acquainted with other sites and seeing what they offer.

That’s all we had for this article, but if you’ve encountered the Omegle language error and fixed it using a method not mentioned here, we’d love to hear about it.

How to Increase Bluetooth Range on Windows

Bluetooth eliminates the need for cables and makes connecting with computers, speakers, mobile phones, and other audio devices hassle-free. Wireless communication between the devices works best with better range and less interference.

In this comprehensive guide, we will understand more about Bluetooth range and explore various methods to extend the range along with other tips to boost the capacity & mitigate interference.

What determines the range of Bluetooth?

The Bluetooth range between connected devices is 10 m or 30 feet. This technology is designed to support a broad limit of feasible ranges between two devices.

The Bluetooth range mainly depends on its class, and there are three main classes of Bluetooth:

The higher the class, the lower the range; Class 2 is considered the ideal among the three.

The range is also affected by factors like Radio Spectrum, PHY (The physical layer), Receiver sensitivity, Transmit Power, Path loss, and Antenna gain.

The radio spectrum lies between 30 Hz to 300 GHz; the lower the frequency, the longer the range, but it will support a lower data rate.

Bluetooth technology uses the 2.4 GHz ISM spectrum band, which balances throughput and range nicely. It supports transmit powers from -20 dBm to +20 dBm.

As it doesn’t use the same frequency all the time and runs limited power supply & resources, as it hops between frequencies to pick channels that are not in active use, the range could be shorter than expected.

Can Bluetooth interfere with other devices?

Bluetooth works on the 2.4 GHz ISM spectrum band, and if there are other devices nearby using the same radio frequency range, it could cause interference. Here are some of the tips to mitigate the connectivity issues:

  • Move away from other Bluetooth devices to improve the radio signals or turn off Bluetooth for nearby devices not in use.
  • If you have a Wi-Fi router, it could be the biggest interference; you need to change the channel on it manually.
  • Don’t stand near microwaves and fluorescent lighting as they emit 2.4 GHz frequencies.
  • Keep the Bluetooth driver up to date.
  • Reconnect the devices and remove the ones you don’t use.
  • Ensure you are using the latest version of OS on both devices in question.
  • Verify Airplane mode is turned off.

If the Bluetooth settings disappeared from your device, then we suggest you go through this informative guide to get solutions.

How do I update my Bluetooth drivers on Windows 11?

If your Bluetooth is not working correctly, chances are the driver for the Bluetooth adapter is outdated or corrupt.

An outdated driver prevents you from connecting your device to another and impacts your computer’s overall functionality and performance.

Therefore, downloading the latest Bluetooth drivers to ensure seamless integration and communication is always stressed. Here we are discussing ways to update Bluetooth drivers; let us check out!

1. Use Device Manager

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Device Manager Run command Increase Bluetooth Range on Windows
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open the Device Manager app.
  3. Go to Bluetooth and click it to expand.
  4. Locate the Bluetooth adapter, right-click it, and select Update driver.Update driver Bluetooth
  5. On the next window, click Search automatically for drivers.Update driver 2
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation of driver software.
  7. Restart your PC to let the changes take effect.

2. Use a third-party tool

If you can’t update the drivers manually, or the process doesn’t work for you, we recommend you use a third-party driver updater instead.

These tools scan and update the old and corrupted drivers within a few clicks, making the task easier. One such reliable tool is Outbyte Driver Updater. Here are the steps to use it:

  1. Download & Install the Outbyte Driver Updater app.
  2. Launch the app; it will scan your computer for obsolete and incompatible drivers.OutByte-Driver-Updater-scanOutByte-Driver-Updater-scanIncrease Bluetooth Range on Windows
  3. You will get a list of drivers; choose the ones you want to update, and click Update & Apply to download & install the latest versions. Once done, restart your PC to save the changes.

How can I extend the Bluetooth range on my computer?

To get a good range, you must ensure you have a suitable device with the latest Bluetooth technology, i.e., Bluetooth 5.0

However, if that is not possible, you can get the second-best thing, a device that can enhance Bluetooth connectivity, i.e, Bluetooth booster, extender, or repeater.

These external Bluetooth adapters are supposed to boost the signal of a Bluetooth device. Here are some of the ways it can help extend the Bluetooth signal range to ensure better connectivity:

  • Makes the signal on your device stronger, thereby reducing transmission issues.
  • Connect to multiple Bluetooth devices at the same time.
  • Offers low latency codec
  • Prevents sync delay.

How can I increase the Bluetooth range on my Windows 10 computer?

You can follow the same steps and tips mentioned above for Windows 11 to extend the Bluetooth range on Windows 10 PC.

So, these are ways to increase the Bluetooth range of connectivity on your Windows 10/11 computer. To establish a stable connection, you must turn off the Bluetooth devices that are not in use, move away from other devices which could interfere, and keep in mind the limited power consumption capability of the technology.

If you face issues like Bluetooth not working on Windows 11, we recommend you check out this guide to find easy solutions.

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

How to Share Files Over Bluetooth on Windows 10/11

Bluetooth is one of the popular ways to transfer files in two paired devices, including Windows 10/11 computers, in both personal and professional environments.

All mobile phones, laptops, and some desktops come with preinstalled Bluetooth. You can share different file types, including PNG, Doc, JPEG, PDF, and more.

In this guide, we will discuss how we can share files over Bluetooth on Windows 10/11 computers using your mobile device.

How can I set up a Bluetooth connection?

1. On your Android smartphone

  1. Locate and tap Settings.Settings - Share Files Over Bluetooth windows
  2. Navigate to Bluetooth, and tap the toggle to turn it on.Bluetooth enabled
  3. Next, click Pair New Device or look for a new device under Other Devices.

2. On a Windows computer

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Bluetooth & devices settings, and click the Add device icon.Bluetooth Settings Share Files Over Bluetooth windows
  3. On Add a device window, click Bluetooth.Add a device Bluetooth
  4. Next, on the same window, you will get a device list, locate the Android smartphone and click on it.Select the device Share Files Over Bluetooth windows
  5. A six-digit code will appear on both devices; if they match, click Pair or Connect on both devices.Click Connect
  6. You will be notified once the connection is established; click Done to complete.Share Files Click DOne Share Over Bluetooth windows

If you cannot establish a connection and get an unknown Bluetooth device error on your Windows 11 computer, we advise you to read this guide to fix the issue.

How can I share files over Bluetooth from Windows 11?

  1. Go to the system tray, click the upward arrow, locate Bluetooth, right-click it, and select Send a File.Send a file Share Files Over Bluetooth windows
  2. On the Bluetooth File Transfer window, select the device and click Next.Select the device and click Next
  3. Click Browse.Share files over Bluetooth  Windows
  4. Locate the file and click Open.Select the file and click Open
  5. Click Next.Click Next
  6. On your Android smartphone, you will get a File Transfer notification; click Accept.Click Accept
  7. Once complete, click Finish. transfer file  Share Files Over Bluetooth windows

In case you are wondering where the file is saved, it depends on the kinds of files you transferred. For example, if you send an image file to your Android smartphone, you need to check your gallery or Photos app for the same.

If you cannot connect via Bluetooth, chances are your computer has outdated drivers; to fix you need first to download the Bluetooth driver for your device.

How can I receive files on Windows 11?

  1. Go to the system tray, click the upward arrow, locate Bluetooth, right-click it, and select Receive a File.Receive a file Share Files Over Bluetooth windows
  2. On the Bluetooth File Transfer window, you will see Waiting for a connection.Waiting for the connection
  3. On your Android device, check if Bluetooth is enabled.
  4. Choose the file or image you want to share and click the Share option.share option
  5. Select Bluetooth from the options.Click Bluetooth
  6. Choose your Windows computer as the recipient device; soon, the file transfer process will start.Transfer the file
  7. On Windows, choose the location where you want to save the file, then click Finish.Receive a file

So, this is how you can share files quickly over Bluetooth on your Windows 10/11 computers using your Android devices.

How can I send files from Windows 10 to other devices?

You can follow the steps mentioned for Windows 11 to connect your Windows PC to an Android device and share files between devices over Bluetooth.

Using Bluetooth’s file transfer feature to connect and share files is a simple & convenient way to send files over devices without needing an internet connection or USB cables.

Additionally, you can send or receive large files between paired devices, and the connection is secured for the transfer to complete; you need to either Accept the request or enter a PIN.

If you face issues like Bluetooth won’t turn on your Windows computer, we recommend you check out this guide to find simple solutions. In case you’re looking for more ways to send files, we have a great guide on how to connect two Windows 11 PCs.

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

NETwlv64.sys Blue Screen: 4 Ways to Fix This Error

Blue Screen of Death or BSoD errors are pretty frustrating as they can appear randomly and prevent you from continuing your task. Sometimes the BSoD errors do not let you boot to the system, which makes troubleshooting a difficult task.

In this guide, we will share with you multiple solutions that will help you resolve the NETwlv64.sys BSoD error on your PC. Let us check out the problem.

What is the NETwlv64.sys file?

The NETwlv64.sys file is associated with Intel Wireless Wi-Fi Link Driver and belongs to Intel Corporation. Because of this error, you will have an error message DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL.

While users have reported that after viewing this file, they were able to boot to their systems, this error again appeared after regular intervals.

Some of the other error messages related to NETwlv64.sys are:

  • NETwLv64.sys could not be found
  • NETwLv64.sys failed to load
  • The file NETwLv64.sys is missing or corrupt
  • Windows failed to start – NETwLv64.sys

If you come across any of the above NETwLv64.sys errors, then you can apply the solutions mentioned in this guide to resolve the problem.

What causes the NETwLv64.sys error?

There are multiple reasons why you can come across a NETwLv64.sys error, some of which are listed below:

  • Corrupt system files – Some system files might be corrupt or missing related to the Wi-Fi drivers which is causing the NETwLv64.sys error.
  • Software conflict – Chances are that you haven’t updated your Wi-Fi driver and it conflicts with the system files.
  • Outdated driver – You might have installed a wrong or unsupported version of the Intel Wi-Fi software and thus got the BSoD error.
  • Your PC isn’t up to date – The version of Windows update that you are running might be old and contains a bug that is causing the error.

Let us now take a look at the different solutions that will help you resolve the NETwLv64.sys error.

How can I resolve the NETwLv64.sys BSoD error?

1. Run the SFC Scan and DISM commands

  1. Turn off and on your PC three times using the Power button to boot into the Advanced Startup environment.
  2. Click on Next, and select the Repair your computer option.
  3. Select the Troubleshoot option.
  4. Choose Advanced options.
  5. Select Command Prompt.
  6. Type the below command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  7. Wait for the process to complete.
  8. Type the below commands and press Enter after each one: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Scanhealth DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth DISM.exe /online /cleanup-image /startcomponentcleanup
  9. Restart your PC.

If your PC fails to boot into the system, then you can follow the above steps to run the command prompt in the Advanced Startup environment and fix the corrupt system files using the SFC Scan and DISM commands.

In case the SFC Scan is not working normally on your PC, then you can check out the solutions mentioned in our guide that will help you resolve the problem.

2. Update the Intel Wi-Fi driver

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Device Manager and open it.
  3. Expand the Network adapters section and open your Wi-Fi driver.
  4. Switch to the Driver tab.
  5. Hit the Update driver button.
  6. Select Search automatically for drivers option.
  7. After the new update installs, reboot your computer.

Chances are that the Wi-Fi version that you have currently installed on your PC is buggy, which is why you are coming across the BSoD error.

You should try updating the Wi-Fi driver and check if this fixes the issue or not. You can also try reinstalling the driver. All you need to do is in place of Update driver, you need to click on the Uninstall device option in step 5.

Besides all this, we also encourage you to level up the driver update process using automatic support from trustworthy driver updater software.

3. Scan your PC for viruses

  1. To open the Start menu, press the Win key.
  2. Open Windows Security.Windows Security open Windows key 0xa00f4289
  3. Choose Virus & threat protection.
  4. Click Quick Scan.
  5. You can also click on Scan options and select Full scan for a deep scan.
  6. Restart your PC.

Often viruses or malware can remove important files from your system causing it to malfunction. In such cases, you can run an antivirus scan and remove the files.

For our case, we have used Windows Defender, but you can use any of the dedicated antivirus software. We have created separate guides that will help you with the list of the best antivirus software and best anti-malware that you can use on your PC.

4. Perform a system restore

  1. Turn off and on your PC three times using the Power button to boot into the Advanced Startup environment.
  2. Click on Next, and select the Repair your computer option.
  3. Select the Troubleshoot option.
  4. Choose Advanced options.
  5. Choose the System Restore option and click Next.
  6. Choose the restore point and hit the Next button.
  7. Hit the Finish button.

You can also opt for system restore as this will help you take your PC back to the state when everything was working normally.

However, for that to happen, you should have a previously created restore point on your PC. For that, we have a guide that will help you create a restore point on your PC.

That is it from us in this guide. You can download the Intel Driver Updater software that will help keep all the Intel drivers up to date on your computer. You can also learn how to deal with similar problems, like LOADER_BLOCK_MISMATCH and IMPERSONATING_WORKER_THREAD.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions resolved the NETwlv64.sys BSoD error.

How to use voice access on your Windows 11 lock screen

Another wave of Windows updates is upon us, and this week, the operating system is seeing some important features and improvements coming to it. Windows 11 Copilot has arrived at the Beta Channel, and now the AI tool is one step closer to being released to the general public.

On the other hand, the Dev Channel is also seeing some important features. According to Microsoft, you’ll soon be able to dim your screen’s lights with your eyes, due to the new Adaptive Dimming feature that was released to Windows 11.

Plus, Microsoft is making it possible for you to enjoy the HDR features on your device’s display. Thanks to a new feature, you’ll be able to set JXR files as desktop backgrounds in Windows 11.

But the good news doesn’t stop here: the voice access feature is now available to use on more areas in Windows, including your lock screen. So now, you can actually spell your Windows 11’s PIN and it will be enough.

How to use voice access on your Windows 11 lock screen

First things first, you have to know that this feature is only available to the Dev Channel for now. So, you won’t see the feature in your Settings if you’re not in the Windows Insider Program.

  1. Go the Windows 11’s Settings.
  2. Once you’re there, select the Accessibility panel, and go to the Speech panel.
  3. Make sure the Voice Access feature is enabled, and then go below and enable the Start voice access before sign-in option as well.voice access windows 11 lock screen

Now, every time you restart your computer, before signing in, you’ll be able to use the voice access on the Windows 11 lock screen now. This is very useful because you can do it remotely, and away from your keyboard.

You’ll be able to dictate your PIN and sign in. Even more, if you say show keyboard, the voice access will then show a keyword with labels on it.

You can say the numbers on the keys to enter the letters associated with them. According to Microsoft, this will mask the actual password you are entering from being heard by anyone in your vicinity

What do you think about this new feature? Let us know in the comments section below.

How to set JXR files as desktop background in Windows 11

Microsoft released the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23516 to the Dev Channel this week and it comes with a lot of new features. For example, you will be able to dim your screen’s lights with your eyes, thanks to some new improvements to the new Presence Sensing feature.

Windows 11 will allow you to enable the feature very easily but your device has to support it for your to access it. On the other hand, Copilot arrived on the Dev Channel, and that can only mean one thing. Windows 11 Copilot will most probably arrive on the live Windows servers in the next Patch Tuesday updates.

Microsoft is also improving the screen casting experience in this Build, and it increased the discoverability of the PC to other devices, via the “Projecting to this PC” Settings page.

But one of the most exciting features to come with this new Build is that now you are able to set JXR files as desktop backgrounds in Windows 11. And if you have an HDR display, they will render in full HDR. Microsoft has released a package that contains JXR files to download and test your device.

Here’s how you can set JXR files on Windows 11 as desktop backgrounds

First, you’ll need to make sure your device has an HDR display or, at least, is connected to an HDR display that supports HDR.

  1. Go to Windows 11’s Settings.
  2. Head over to the System panel, and then select Display.
  3. Once you’re there, go to the HDR panel and see if your device supports it.jxr files on windows 11

If it does, then all you have to do is to download an HDR .JXR file to your device.

  1. Then right-click on your desktop, choose Personalize, and then Background.
  2. Select the .JXR file you downloaded to your device.
  3. The background should load on your display.

If you don’t know where to download a JXR file, Microsoft has prepared a package for you to test your display.

Are you excited about this feature? Let us know in the comments section below.

10 Best Quillbot Alternatives for Paraphrasing: Rephrase Tools

Quillbot is a popular writing assistant tool that has gained popularity recently thanks to its ability to rephrase sentences and paragraphs. While Quillbot is effective, it can sometimes produce awkward or unclear sentences when rephrasing text. 

By exploring other writing assistant tools available today, you may discover features and functionalities that better align with your specific needs as a writer or content creator. Many alternatives offer unique benefits, such as customizable settings and integration with other applications, that could help streamline your workflow significantly.

What are the best Quillbot Alternatives?

HIX.AI – Best Quillbot Alternative

HIX.AI paraphraser tool is one of the best alternatives to Quillbot. It is designed to rephrase or reword text like a pro.

You could use this tool to paraphrase paragraphs or rewrite articles without the risk of plagiarism. This paraphrasing tool can be beneficial in various scenarios, such as content creation, academic writing, and improving the uniqueness of text for SEO purposes. 

The paraphrasing tool is just one of the features of HIX AI Writer which offers more than 120 writing tools that allow you to create any content in seconds. Whether you want to check grammar, rewrite an article, or generate slogans, you’ll find the right tool for you. 

For fact-based article writing needs, HIX.AI has developed Long-Form AI Article Writer. If you are looking for an efficient way to streamline the content creation process and increase your online presence, HIX.AI is definitely worth considering.

HIX.AI is an all-in-one AI writing copilot. Apart from these writing tools, it also offers a range of products that make it easy to create engaging content quickly.

They include an all-in-one Chrome extension, HIX Editor, HIX Chat, and AI Email Writer. With its intelligent algorithms and wide range of features, this platform provides a powerful solution for businesses looking to get ahead in today’s competitive digital landscape. 

Here are some of its key features:

  • AI-powered paraphrasing tool that delivers high-quality rephrasing text
  • Helps improve the quality, clarity, and coherence of your writing
  • User-friendly interface with intuitive features and options
  • Offers tone of voice and target audience selections to better customize the output
  • Easy to access via web APP, browser extension, and HIX Editor
  • Provides multiple language options, caters to non-English speakers

HIX.AI

Try the best AI paraphrasing tool to create new and exciting content for all your projects.
Free trial Visit website

Paraphrasing.io – Side-by-side comparison

Paraphrasing.io is a tool that offers a side-by-side view to allow you to compare the original content with the paraphrased version.

This web app helps you reword complex sentences and make them more straightforward and clear and become more accessible to readers.

As a paraphrasing tool, it provides multiple outputs for a given text. This way, you may choose the most suitable alternative that matches your requirements.

If you want to rewrite articles or create original and unique content, Paraphrasing.io is definitely worth a try.

Here are some of its top features:

  • Can paraphrase lengthy passages into shorter and more concise summaries
  • Improves content’s readability
  • Easy-to-navigate interface 
  • Supports different languages for multilingual needs

Paraphrasing.io

With this tool, you can make side-by-side comparisons of your text versions.

Paraphrase-Online – No account needed

Paraphrase Online is an alternative to Quillbot that you may surely want to try. It uses various algorithms and techniques to analyze the input text and generate alternative versions with basically the same message. 

Like Quillbot, it helps rephrase sentences or text to avoid plagiarism and improve writing clarity.

The process involves breaking down the sentence and understanding the context and providing more concise, readable, and unique versions of the given text.

Sometimes it will be successful, and sometimes you will need to boost the result with a bit of human creativity.

Here are some of its best features:

  • Maintains consistency in style and tone while paraphrasing a document
  • Paraphrases large volumes of texts efficiently and effectively
  • Seamlessly integrates with other writing platforms

Paraphrase-Online

Paraphrasing Tool AI – Simple and easy to use

Paraphrasing Tool AI is another great alternative to Quillbot for paraphrasing. It leverages a language model that learns patterns, grammar, and vocabulary from large amounts of text data to reword text and produce more accurate and coherent results.

You can customize the output text of the content to your needs by changing the tone and writing style.

Apart from paraphrasing, it can also help correct grammatical errors, improve sentence fluency, and enhance the overall readability of the text. 

Paraphrasing Tool AI is helpful for marketers and bloggers to create content and improve their working efficiency

Let’s review some of its key features:

  • No plagiarism detected in the paraphrased content
  • Saves time by quickly generating paraphrased content
  • Enhances the language and clarity of the text

Paraphrasing Tool AI

Change the tone and writing style of your paraphrased text without worrying about plagiarism.

Grammarly – Best for spellchecking

Grammarly is a leading writing assistant that offers a wide range of features, including a paraphrasing tool as an alternative to Quillbot.

Its advanced AI algorithms can assist you in rephrasing sentences effectively. It provides 4 paraphrasing options for each input sentence, so you can choose the right version for your needs.

However, Grammarly’s main feature, for which is renowned, is to improve the grammar, spelling, and punctuation of your text.

Of course, it also provides suggestions for enhancing the overall clarity and style of your writing. With its user-friendly interface and compatibility across various platforms, Grammarly is a versatile tool for anyone who wants to improve their writing.

Let’s see some of its key advantages:

  • Comprehensive writing assistance for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style
  • Provides alternative suggestions for rephrasing sentences and expressions
  • User-friendly interface and compatibility across multiple platforms
  • Offers real-time suggestions and feedback to improve your writing on the go
  • Can be integrated with various applications, including web browsers, word processors, and email clients

Grammarly

This tool not only provides paraphrasing ideas but it also improves the grammar of your texts.

Jasper – Fast and efficient paraphrasing

Jasper paraphraser is an advanced natural language processing tool that can be a viable alternative to Quillbot for paraphrasing needs.

It was designed to rephrase or rewrite sentences, paragraphs, or entire articles while retaining the original meaning. 

This paraphrasing tool uses the newest algorithms to analyze and understand the context of the text, providing accurate and contextually appropriate paraphrases.

Jasper for paraphrasing can be very helpful for content creation, academic writing, and SEO optimization. 

Here are some of its most important features:

  • Advanced natural language processing tool for accurate and contextually appropriate paraphrasing
  • Enhances the readability and coherence of the text
  • Provides alternative suggestions for rephrasing sentences and expressions.
  • User-friendly interface with customizable options
  • Offers additional features like grammar checking to improve your writing

⇒ Get Jasper

Wordtune – Great English-speaking coach

Wordtune has a rewriting tool similar to QuillBot. It uses high-level programming to rewrite sentences clearly and smoothly while still keeping the meaning and even style of the text.

It’s perfect for paraphrasing all types of writing. For official writing, it focuses on being clear, and for informal writing, it adds a bit of flair but doesn’t stray from what you’re trying to say.

Whether you’re writing a crucial business report or creating a creative blog, this alternative to Quillbot makes it easier to rewrite text and create plagiarism-free content.

Let’s see some of its key features:

  • Generates grammatical-error-free texts
  • Provides different alternatives that users can choose from
  • Paraphrases a text in a simpler and easy-to-understand language

⇒ Get Wordtune

Copy.ai – Generates plagiarism-free content

Copy.ai is a great alternative to Quillbot which uses AI to rephrase sentences and paragraphs while retaining the original meaning of the original source.

It is efficient in generating responses without plagiarism. This Quillbot alternative allows you to customize and personalize the output by adjusting several parameters.

These include the level of rewriting, desired simplicity, or keeping specific keywords or phrases.

Here are some of its best features:

  • Leverages AI to repurpose existing content by presenting it in a different format or style
  • Offers translation feature
  • User-friendly interface

⇒ Get Copy.ai

Hypotenuse AI – Turns a few keywords into full articles

The Hypotenuse paraphrasing tool can also rival Quillbot because it harnesses the power of AI to rephrase and restate text in various styles while keeping the original meaning.

The web app employs synonym databases to find suitable alternatives for words and phrases in the original text, thereby avoiding word duplication.

This paraphrasing tool is commonly used by writers, students, and researchers to improve the clarity of their writing and simplify complex sentences.

Take a look at some of its key features:

  • Provides customizable settings which allow users to adjust the level of paraphrasing or choose specific writing styles
  • Makes content more readable and accessible by simplifying complex language or jargon+
  • Clarifies ambiguous sentences to make them easier to understand

⇒ Get Hypotenuse AI

Anyword – Ideal for marketing

Like all the other paraphrasing tools from our list, Anyword has different methods and algorithms to develop alternative versions of a given text.

This tool gives you control over the level of paraphrasing needed, ranging from minimal rewording to significant content revision.

Anyword understands the context of each word or phrase to provide relevant replacements and word suggestions to help you choose the right ones.

Let’s review a few of its best features:

  • Provides suggestions for sentence structures and vocabulary choices that align with the tone of the original source
  • Has different paraphrasing modes, allowing users to tailor the output to taste
  • User-friendly interface

⇒ Get Anyword

The world of AI chatbots is extremely dynamic, offering a huge number of options. Each of the 10 AI chatbots has unique capabilities and features for different sets of needs.

However, HIX.AI is the best alternative to Quillbot. Check out this table that compares them in terms of features, pricing, and more.

HIX.AIQuillbot
Pricing$19.99-$129.99/mo$8.33-$19.95/mo
Language ModelGPT-3.5/4Unspecified
AI Writing Tools120+6
Supported Languages50+23
Article Rewriter√√
Video to Article√×
Paraphrasing Tool√√
Brand Voice√×
Bulk Processing√×
Long-Form Article Writer√×
Supported Article Types8×
Content Backed by Credible Resources√ (Top Google Search Results, Google News, Amazon Product Pages, …)×
SEO-friendly Content Creation√×
Up-to-date Content Creation√ (Backed by up-to-date information online)×
ChatGPT-Like Chatbot√×
Web Access√×
Image Generation√×
AccessibilityAccessible through web app & Chrome browser extension×
Chat with PDF√×
YouTube Summarizer√×
Webpage Summarizer√×
AI Document Editor√√
Writing Modes3 (AI Mode, Chat Mode, Power Mode)×
1-Click Google Docs Export√×
1-Click WordPress Export√×
Chatbot Assistance√×
AI Writing Templates1206
Integrated AI Availability√√
Plagiarism Check√× (Not integrated in the editor)
Grammarly Integration√×
All-in-One Browser Extension√√
Work in Chrome and Edge√√
Work in Social Media√ (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Quora, Reddit, YouTube)√ (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Discord)
Work in Email√ (Gmail)√ (Gmail)
Work in Google Docs√√
Search Engine Enhancement√ (Google, Yahoo Search, DuckDuckGo, Naver, Baidu)×
Quick Lookup Toolbar√ (Translate, grammar check, longer, shorter, explain and more)×
Browser Sidebar√ (HIX.AI ChatGPT sidebar, a a more versatile Bing Sidebar alternative)√
Chatbot Integrated√×
AI Email Writer√×
Email Templates20+×
Summarize Emails√×
Suggest & Write Replies√×
AccessibilityAccessible through web app & browser extension×
Tones of Voices13×
Supported Languages50+×

However, take everything an AI paraphrasing tool has to offer with a grain of salt. These services are still in their infancy and cannot replace the talent or imagination that a human can express.

We hope that these Quillbot alternatives will help you create unique and interesting content. You may test them all and choose the one that suits you best.

If you have tested any of the AI paraphrasing tools, tell us all about your experience in the comments section below.

Can You Use a Webcam Without any Drivers?

Webcams are important devices in today’s fast-paced world, with more importance placed on online video meetings. Usually, most webcams come with a disk that contains their drivers but most of the time, the system finds one automatically after you connect it to your device.

However, it is quite easy to lose this disk which is why you might be wondering if you use a webcam without drivers. In this guide, we will show you how to get your webcam working without the disk.

What is a driver for a webcam?

A webcam driver is an important program that helps your PC communicate with the webcam. They are present in the built-in camera on your PC, and most external cameras have them too.

In most cases, if your webcam driver is not properly installed, is outdated, or is missing, the device will not work. So, they are pretty crucial to the smooth running of your webcam, even if you have third-party webcam software installed.

Do I need a driver for a webcam?

There are plug-and-play webcams that work immediately after you connect them to your PC. There is a special driver installation needed for these types of webcams. They just use the existing ones on your PC instead.

However, if most webcams need a driver to work on your PC, in fact, a vast majority of them do. Fortunately, unlike the days when driver discs are included in the device package, most modern products install their driver when you connect them to your PC.

But if you are wondering if you can use a webcam without a driver because you lost the disk included in the package, there are ways to use the device still.

How do I install a driver for my webcam without the disc?

  1. Check your webcam packaging for its make and model.
  2. Launch your browser and visit the official website of the manufacturer and click the Support tab.
  3. Now, type the webcam’s name or model in the Search box. On some sites, you will be provided a list of devices, and you only need to choose your camera.
    product
  4. Choose your operating system.
    os webcam no driver needed
  5. Click the Downloads option.
  6. Next, click Download button before the latest software available for your webcam.
    download
  7. Double-click the downloaded file to run it and follow the onscreen instructions to install it.
  8. Finally, plug your webcam into your PC and launch the software to start using your device.

With this, you should be able to install the needed driver for your webcam even when you don’t have the disc. We have used a Dell webcam in this case, but the process is pretty similar on other devices too.

We have reached the end of this guide. You now know that there are webcams you can use without a driver, while many more require them to function properly.

If you need a list of the best webcams with microphone for your PC, we have prepared the top ones available for you in this guide.

Finally, if your Windows 11 webcam is not working, it might not just be a driver issue. Check our detailed guide to fix it.

Some webcams can experience Webcam JS error, but we covered this issue in another guide, so don’t miss it.

How to access presence sensing feature on Windows 11

Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23516 to the Dev Channel, and it comes with some important features. Besides the Windows Copilot getting some well-deserved improvements on the channel, this build also brings a lot of improvements to the Presence Sensing feature on Windows 11.

If you don’t know, the Presence Sensing feature on Windows 11 will allow the system to detect users’ behavior near the machine. Your device needs to support Presence Sensing in order for you to use it.

And now, with the new improvements on this feature in the Dev Channel, you’ll be able to use Adaptive Dimming. This feature is on a level of its own, as it will allow you to intelligently dim your screen when you look away and un-dim when you look back. So basically, you will be able to control your screen’s lights with your eyes.

For now, the feature is in the Dev Channel, but this means it will come to the live Windows 11 servers very soon. For those of you who are in the Dev Channel, you can easily enable this feature with a few clicks. Here’s how.

How to enable presence sensing in Windows 11?

  1. You need to go to Windows 11’s Settings via the Search taskbar.
  2. Once you’re there, go to the Privacy & Security panel and select Presence Sensing. (Note: your device needs to support the feature, for it to appear.)
  3. Here just make sure the Automatically dim my screen when I look away option is enabled.windows 11 presence sensing
  4. And this is it. Your screen should dim its lights when you look away.

Don’t forget: for now, this feature is only in the Dev Channel, and your device needs to support the feature, for you to enable it.

According to Microsoft, Wake on Approach, Lock on Leave, Adaptive Dimming are all powered by Presence Sensing in Windows and now can be enabled via the OOBE (“out of box experience”) setup process when choosing your privacy settings for your device.

Are you excited about this feature? Let us know in the comments!

Output Device not Working: How to Fix this Voicemeeter Error

Voicemeeter is one of the most-used audio mixer applications, thanks to its ability to manage just about any audio source. However, some users are reporting an output device not working on Voicemeeter when they try to play or transmit audio.

This error is reported to show up after users update their PCs. Fortunately, you can easily get rid of the output device not working error, and we will show you how to go about it in this guide.

Why is my Voicemeeter audio output not working?

There are various factors that can cause the Voicemeeter audio output to stop working. Below are some of them:

  • Faulty drivers – In most cases, this issue is caused by broken drivers installed by Windows updates. This is especially true if the error started showing after updating your PC.
  • Wrong output settings – At times, this issue might be due to wrong settings from your end. For example, if you choose WDM instead of MME as your output type when you are indeed using an MME device, you are likely to get this error.

Now that we know the reasons behind this error, let’s fix it using the solutions below.

How can I fix the Voicemeeter output device is not working error?

Try the following troubleshooting steps before proceeding to the more sophisticated solutions below:

  • Restart your PC.
  • Remove unnecessary audio software like Sonic Studio.
  • If you are on Windows Insider build, switch to the stable version.

If this does not work, explore the fixes below.

1. Reinstall the audio driver

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Device Manager option.
    device manager output device not working voicemeeter
  2. Double-click the Sound, video, and game controllers section to expand it.
  3. Now, right-click your audio device and select Uninstall device.
    uninstall
  4. Next, tick the box for Attempt to remove the driver for this device if it is available and click the Uninstall button.
    attempt
  5. Close Device Manager and restart your PC.
  6. From here, go to your audio device manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver for your device.
  7. Extract the download file if it is zipped.
    extract all
  8. Now, go back to the Device Manager window and right-click your audio device and select Update driver.
    update driver  output device not working voicemeeter
  9. Choose Browse my computer for drivers.
    browse my
  10. Click the Browse button, navigate to the downloaded driver, and select it.
    browse  output device not working voicemeeter
  11. Finally, click the OK button, wait for the process to complete, and restart your PC.

Most users started getting the output device not working error on Voicemeeter after updating their computer. This is because the Windows update installed a faulty driver that is messing with their audio output.

This is especially prominent with Realtek audio drivers. In this case, reinstalling your driver from the manufacturer’s website should restore normalcy. Some users also got rid of the error by reinstalling their NVIDIA GPU driver. So, you can do that too.

2. Use MME as output

  1. Launch the Voicemeeter software and click A1 at the top.
  2. Now, select the MME option for your output device.
    mme
  3. Finally, make sure your input device is set as MME too.

Some users have reported that they got the output device not working error on Voicemeeter when they choose WDM as their output. This is despite their output device using a WDM driver.

However, they were able to fix the issue by changing the output to MME instead.

3. Reinstall Voicemeeter and VB-Cable

  1. Press the Windows key, type control, and click the Control Panel option.
    control panel
  2. Choose Uninstall a program under the Programs option.
    uninstall a
  3. Now, right-click the Voicemeeter option, select Uninstall, and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the removal process.
    uninstall output device not working error on Voicemeeter
  4. Next, go to the official website to download the latest version of Voicemeeter.
  5. Finally, if you have VB-Cable, repeat the steps above to uninstall and reinstall it too.

If you keep getting the output device not working error on Voicemeeter after trying the solutions above, you might need to uninstall and reinstall the latest version of the software.

This has worked for users, especially in cases where the error message sprung up after a Windows update.

With this solution, we can conclude this article on how to fix the output device not working error on Voicemeeter. You should now be able to fix the error effortlessly, provided you follow the solutions in this guide.

In the same vein, if Kast audio is not working on your PC, check our detailed guide to fix it effortlessly.

Were you able to get rid of this error? Let us know how in the comments below.