If you have ever installed, updated, or uninstalled an application on your computer, you have likely used msiexec.exe, even if you didn’t intentionally run the file or know about it.
When you come across the msiexec.exe process running in the background for the first time, and you’re curious about what it is and what it does, this guide is for you.
What is a msiexec EXE file?
Msiexec.exe is an executable file core component of the Microsoft Windows system. It stands for Microsoft Installer Execution and is responsible for initiating, installing, modifying, and removing software packages that use the Windows Installer technology.
It uses MSI (Microsoft Installer Package) files, which are special database files that hold important information about software packages.
These files hold details about what files to install, registry entries, and instructions for installing and removing the software. When you run an MSI file or start an installation using a setup program, the msiexec.exe program executes the installation process.
It reads the instructions from the MSI file and performs the necessary actions to install or configure the software on your system. It also supports various command-line options that customize the installation process.
In addition to installations, msiexec.exe performs the tasks of repairing, modifying, or uninstalling software on your computer.
Is msiexec.exe a malware file?
The msiexec.exe file is not malware, and it is considered safe. It is highly unlikely that msiexec.exe would cause any harm to your system. However, malware can target the file to carry out malicious actions, just like any other executable file.
If you want to verify whether the msiexec.exe file is malware, you can check its file location on your computer.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to the Details tab and locate msiexec.exe.
Right-click on msiexec.exe and choose the Open file location.
If it’s a legitimate process, the msiexec.exe file should be found in the following folder:C:\Windows\System32
If the file is located elsewhere, it is a trojan masquerading as a system file.
If you try to delete the msiexec.exe file, you won’t be able to do so because you don’t have special permission from TrustedInstaller. However, you can gain permission from TrustedInstaller to delete the file.
In case you kill or delete the file, you won’t be able to install or uninstall apps because this file is necessary for the Windows Installer Package tasks.
Remember, while removing programs, reliable uninstaller software is often the best approach since it deletes any leftover files and Registry entries.
Let us know if you have any further questions regarding this file in the comment section below.
And Microsoft doesn’t stop here. There is a dedicated program, Microsoft Edge Canary, where the Redmond-based tech giant is implementing experimental and new features on it every week.
Take this week, for example. A new feature allows you to turn Edge into Edge Photo, and you can effectively use it as you would use the Photo Viewer app. This Reddit user spotted it, and it looks like another way for Edge to show its versatility.
Most likely, the feature will be available to the general public in the next Edge updates, in the following months. For now, it has quite a simple design.
What is Edge Photo & how can you use it
Edge Photo is basically Edge transformed in the Photo Viewer app. The design, for now, is quite simple, but it seems that the feature is in its initial phases. So it will get a revamp in the following weeks, before arriving to live servers.
As you can see, its design is minimal. There is a preview pane on the right side of it, and going through the pictures is similar to using the Photo Viewer app. You can also notice an Edge Photo logo on the bottom-left side of the app.
You can use it by dragging and dropping photos into your Edge. Then the browser automatically transforms into Edge Photo. There is no apparent limit to how many photos you can drag there.
At the bottom-right of the screen, there is an icon. You can actually pop out Edge Photo and use it independently of Edge if you want.
With this being said, keep in mind that the feature is still in its initial phases. So it is prone to changes and improvements in the future, but it does look very exciting.
What do you think about it? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.
Usually, this is a normal operation we don’t expect to go wrong, but when it does, you must address it immediately. We show you how to fix this problem below.
What does insufficient system resources exist to complete the requested service mean?
This message usually means that your computer’s hardware has run out of resources or space to process a task.
A system resource is any computing resource that a computer program can use. Examples of system resources include CPU time, memory, disk space, and network bandwidth.
When a program needs a system resource to complete an operation, it requests that resource through an operating system call. If your system resource is low or the requested resource is unavailable, your application will not work correctly or at all.
For most users, it happened when they tried to open a folder, but in other rare cases, it was after a Windows update. Memory seems to be the system resource in question from these incidents.
According to this thread, a small section encountered this error when trying to install a program and could not access the installation folder.
I get Insufficient system resources exist to complete in Windows 10 when trying to open an installation folder
However, insufficient RAM is not the only cause of the insufficient system resources exist error. It could also be caused by one of several common problems, including:
Virus or malware infection – If a virus infection has plagued your device, it has the capability of changing how your PC works, and that includes preventing you from accessing folders.
Damaged file – The folder you’re trying to access may contain a damaged file, and that’s why you can’t open it.
Hardware failure – You may have a bad hard drive or RAM module that is causing this memory error.
How do you fix insufficient system resources exist to complete the requested service?
Before you move to the slightly technical solutions, try the following:
Open the Task Manager and see which programs are using up all your memory and CPU. Close them down if they’re not essential.
Check out your disk space and use the Disk Cleanup tool to remove unnecessary files from your hard drive.
Click on Apps on the left pane, then select Apps & features on the right pane.
Search for the problematic app, click on the three ellipses, and select Uninstall.
Launch the Microsoft Store, search for the app, and click Install.
Try opening the installation folder and see if the error persists.
Before reinstalling the program, clear any software remnants from the previous installation. This will ensure you don’t replicate the insufficient system resources exist issue that was causing your PC to malfunction.
4. Enable folder inheritance
Hit the Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
Find the folder, right-click on it, and select Properties.
Navigate to the Security tab and click on Advanced.
Check the Replace all child object permissions with inheritable permissions from this object box then click Apply and OK.
Restart your PC and check if the problem persists.
The insufficient system resources are a relatively common problem you may encounter on your computer.
We hope that this article has been helpful. We gave it our best shot to share the knowledge in a friendly and accessible manner, as this particular topic can be quite intimidating to those without experience.
Please let us know what solution has been a success for you, or if you have any others, drop them in the comment section.
Sometimes, when you try to map a network drive, Windows won’t let you do it. You may get an error message that says The mapped network drive could not be created.
If you are trying to map a network drive on your Windows machine but cannot, there might be a few reasons behind this problem. In this article, we will discuss some of these reasons and how you can fix them.
Why is my network drive not getting mapped?
A network drive is a folder on your computer that you can access, edit and save files to as if it were a local hard drive. The way this works is by using the SMB protocol. These are the same protocols Windows uses to share resources across a network.
If your computer can see another computer on the network, you should be able to use a network drive to access its files.
However, if you’re not having any luck getting things going, here are some reasons behind this issue:
The network drive isn’t available – If the map network drive is missing, it won’t appear in the list of network locations.
You have not enabled the SMB2 protocol on your PC – SMB2 is the protocol used by modern versions of Windows to connect to network drives over ethernet or Wi-Fi networks. If you are using an older version of Windows, then it may not support SMB2.
The folder path is incorrect or doesn’t exist on the server – If the path is incorrect or has been deleted, you cannot map a drive.
You are running an older version of Windows – This can happen if you have upgraded your computer’s operating system or reinstalled Windows and have not installed any new updates.
Network drive is already mapped – If you had previously mapped the network drive, you will not be able to create a new one.
Connection issues – It is possible that your network is experiencing issues such as connection drops, slow response times, etc. This can cause problems with mapping drives.
How do you fix the mapped network drive could not be created?
This is a common issue with many users, and there are several workarounds, such as:
Make sure that your computer is connected to the Internet.
Check with your administrator or IT department to ensure you have sufficient permissions to map this folder or file.
Make sure that your computer and server are connected to the same network.
Microsoft is investing a lot of funds into AI research. There is Orca 13B a soon-to-be open source AI model, that has shown incredible results. There is LongMeM, which is Microsoft’s answer to the struggles of getting an unlimited context length. There is phi-1, which is Microsoft’s incredibly powerful AI language for coding.
And there is DeepRapper, which is Microsoft’s AI rap-generator music software. Yes, you heard that right. An AI rapper.
Developed by the Chinese Muzic, which falls under The Deep and Reinforcement Learning Group at Microsoft Research Asia, DeepRapper is an AI model that generates rap verses according to suitable rhythms.
In this paper, we develop DeepRapper, a novel Transformer-based rap generation system, which leverages rhyme modeling, rhythm modeling and pre-training for rap generation.
According to the paper, the researchers first built a data mining pipeline. This pipeline, which consisted of a dataset with rap songs with aligned lyrics and rhythmic beats, was used to train DeepRapper. After the pipeline was completed, they built a language model that would select rhymes and rhythm models.
The pipeline contained a vast quantity of rap songs, different in structure and composition. After DeepRapper was trained on it, the AI rapper was capable of coming out with complex and high-quality verses.
Even more, the AI rapper has currently generated over 5000 samples, and you can actually see how they look. But so that you know, the verses are currently in Mandarin. However they are translated, and you can actually the complexity.
How can you ignore the reality of your character and never lack arrogance and arrogance? Forge a new ideal, open every farewell on the wings.
Some of DeepRapper’s raps
As in any other creative AI, DeepRapper was trained on a music catalog from the Internet, so the actual raps can contain copyrighted material. However, it’s very interesting to see just exciting the research on AI gets.
With Muzic, Microsoft joins Meta in forging AI models for music creation. Meta also has recently announced MusicGen, a similar AI model that composes music. So it will be interesting to see where this leads.
Will future music be AI-generated? Well, maybe not all of it, but some of it already is. What do you think?
Let us know your opinions in the comments section below.
Most exe files on your computer are simply executable files to install apps. However, some are malicious, and 1.exe is one of these files.
According to reports from users, this is a file that somehow found its way to your PC, and from there, everything went downhill. Their PCs started crashing and randomly freezing. If you’re in the same predicament, we share how to remove this file.
What does the exe virus do?
We have all interacted with exe files in our PC whenever we download certain programs and know they are generally not harmful.
However, an executable virus can be self-replicating. It uses a host application to spread copies of itself. These viruses infect executable files, including boot sector and system files, so they can be executed by the operating system each time the file is run.
Exe viruses are often used for malicious purposes, such as stealing information from your computer or taking over your system process to steal your private data.
They can also be used to take advantage of other security vulnerabilities in Windows or other programs on your computer to gain access to sensitive information like usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and more.
Other things it can do include:
Disable your firewall and antivirus
Delete files on your computer without your knowledge
One of the main reasons you may find yourself with an exe virus is if you don’t have a reliable antivirus, do not update it regularly, or download files from untrusted sources.
Hit the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands and press Enter after each one: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealthsfc /scannow
Alongside the SFC scan on your Windows PC, you can also rely on tailored system repair tools in order to diagnose the system and detect corrupted system files.
Moreover, the PC repair software will detect any kind of issues on your Windows OS, including virus files or broken registry files.
2. Scan for viruses
Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
Select Virus & threat protection.
Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
If you don’t find any threats, proceed to perform a full scan by clicking on Scan options just below Quick scan.
Click on Full scan, then Scan now to perform a deep scan of your PC.
Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.
If your antivirus program detects anything, it will likely quarantine or remove it immediately. However, if there’s no luck with the first scan, try running another one with a comprehensive antivirus program.
3. Clean the Registry
Press Windows + R, type regedit in the dialog box, and press Enter or click OK to open the Registry Editor.
In the app, go to File, then Export.
Now select All as Export range.
Enter the desired file name, choose a safe location, and clickSave. This will create a backup. If any issues occur after you modify your registry, you can run the file you created to restore it to its original state.
Now you can start cleaning the files. In the Registry Editor, go to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE
Right-click on the file you want to remove and select Delete.
Although manually cleaning the registry is an excellent option, sometimes it does not pick up all errors, so a registry cleaner should suffice.
If the above methods are unsuccessful, you may have to reinstall your copy of Windows. This comes in handy for files like Zbrain.desktop that may be difficult to get rid off. And that brings us to the close of this article.
For any additional thoughts or queries, leave a comment down below.
Uninst.exe is a process file that belongs to the software NCH Software. This process monitors system changes and helps you install, update, and uninstall software on your computer.
It’s a small file that doesn’t require special permissions or privileges to be executed on your computer so you can run it anytime. The big question is whether you should keep it on your PC, so let’s find out.
Should I remove uninst.exe from my PC?
If you are having problems with your computer, and you think that this program may be causing them, then it is recommended that you remove it from your computer.
Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
Select Virus & threat protection.
Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
If you don’t find any threats, proceed to perform a full scan by clicking on Scan options just below Quick scan.
Click on Full scan, then Scan now to perform a deep scan of your PC.
Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.
As removing unwanted programs is essential to the health of your computer we recommend using specialized software to ensure its security. A tool such as TotalAV is able to perform more in-depth scans of your system and it also provides long-term protection against future threats.
Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui, and hit Enter.
The System Restore window will open. Click on Next.
Select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
Now click on Finish.
What is uninst.exe?
Keep in mind that uninst.exe is a non-system process used by the DAEMON Tools Lite program to remove files and uninstall programs. It is part of the NCH Software that provides audio, video, photo, and document processing tools.
Some of the roles it plays include:
Uninstall an application from your system – Uninstalling an application using this utility will delete all files associated with it, as well as delete registry entries and other settings.
Install an application – When installing a new program on your system, you can use this utility to ensure that all necessary files are copied over correctly and ready for use by the end user.
Is the uninst.exe file necessary?
There are a lot of non-system processes on your Windows PC, and you may never get to interact with them. However, some may occasionally appear as errors when you start up your PC or as runtime errors.
In such cases, you may have to remove them. Exe files don’t generally cause problems, but there are some signs to look out for that could help you decipher whether they are causing issues. These signs include:
The program was downloaded from a website other than the official website of the software developer
The name of the file contains strange characters or numbers
The size of the file is significantly larger than expected for its purpose
You receive an error message when trying to open the file
The program attempts to install other programs without your permission
Some of the errors you may come across related to the uninst.exe file include the following:
uninst.exe failed
Cannot find uninst.exe
uninst.exe Application Error
uninst.exe not found
uninst.exe is not running
uninst.exe is not a valid Win32 application
If you find yourself with a slower-than-usual machine, these files should be the first place you look for the source of the problem.
With exe files, the problems are varied, and sometimes you may be unable to open these files. If so, look no further than our detailed guide on how to fix such errors.
Hopefully, this article has helped unpack the uninst.exe file, and you’re now in a better position to decide whether to keep it or remove it.
In case you encounter a similar unknown file, we have a great guide that explains if you should remove distnoted.exe, so don’t miss it.
Good news for Windows enthusiasts this week. Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23486to the Dev Channel. And it’s packed with a lot of good features, important fixes, and improvements.
It’s almost as big as the last week’s Patch Tuesday updates, and some of these updates will make much easier for you to browse. Take for example this Windows 11 feature: passkeys. According to Microsoft, the future is passwordless, and passkeys are the first step to that.
Basically, passkeys will allow you to replace passwords when you sign into a website or application that supports them. This way, bad actors won’t be able to steal your credentials when signing into a web site or application.
Even more, Microsoft says that passkeys are phish-resistant, recoverable, and faster for users.
Here’s how you can use passkey on Windows 11
In order for you to use passkeys, you need to go to any app or website that supports passkeys. You’ll be signing in by creating a passkey, and then you can use Windows Hello (face, fingerprint, PIN) to sign in.
Create and Sign in using passkeys can be done on Windows 11 devices, as well as your mobile devices.
For a Windows 11 device, you need to:
Go to a website that has enabled passkeys on Windows (Example: bestbuy.com, ebay.com, google.com).
Create a passkey from your account settings.
Sign out of your account and sign-in using your passkey.
And for mobile device, you’ll need to:
Go to a website that has enabled passkeys from your mobile device (Example: bestbuy.com, ebay.com, google.com).
Create a passkey from your account settings.
Go to the website on Windows and sign in using your passkey saved on your mobile device.
You can also manage your passkeys that are saved into your Windows devices. You can view, search, and delete them as you see fit.
Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Passkeys.
Here you’ll find a list of all passkeys saved to your Windows device.
Besides the passkeys, there are a lot of changes and improvements coming with this build. Check them below.
[File Explorer]
Thank you to all the Windows Insiders who gave us feedback on the Folder Options changes in File Explorer that removed a handful of old settings in Build 23481. We’ve rolled back this change. As is normal for the Dev Channel, we will often try things out and get feedback and adjust based on the feedback we receive.
[Dev Home]
[ADDED] Starting with this build, Dev Home is now an inbox app. In a future flight, Dev Home will be found via Start > All apps > Windows Tools. To learn more about Dev Home, check out this blog post here and also read about the latest Dev Home update here.
[Dynamic Lighting]
New Effects are now available for Dynamic Lighting via Settings > Personalization > Dynamic Lighting. Check out Wave, Wheel, and Gradient.
[Emoji]
Unicode Emoji 15, which began rolling out with Build 23475, is now available to all Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.
[Settings]
We are improving the user experience when changing time zones, including cases of low confidence in location data. It displays a non-dismissible notification for accepting or rejecting the change and prompts the user for confirmation before adjusting the time zone.
We are also improving the user experience while changing the time zone via Settings > Time & language > Date & time. If location settings are disabled, a warning is now shown to the user, urging them to enable location settings to ensure accurate time zone adjustments. This warning provides helpful information to the user, helping them understand why their time zone may not be correct and guiding them towards resolving the issue.
[Dynamic Lighting]
We fixed the issue where on first boot after installing recent builds and connecting a device, the “Use Dynamic Lighting on my devices” toggle is off in Settings and device LEDs may not turn on automatically.
[Input]
We’re rolling a fix for an issue where a blank window whose title is “Windows Input Experience” appears after resuming the device from the sleep.
[Network]
Fixed an issue where the login screen was crashing in the last couple flights when trying to connect to certain types of networks.
[Task Manager]
Fixed an issue causing Task Manager crashes for some people.
Fixed an issue where focus wasn’t getting set correctly to search if the Task Manager window was small enough that search was collapsed to an icon.
Fixed alignment of Task Manager icon and name in the title bar.
Right clicking the empty space in the Details page (aka so no process is actually selected) will no longer show the option to create live kernel memory dumps.
Fixed an issue where the live kernel memory dumps weren’t being cleaned up by Storage Sense.
[Dev Drive]
There might be variable performance on different hardware. If you notice slower performance on your machine, please file feedback!
[Search on the Taskbar]
[NEW] After changing your Windows display language, the search box on the taskbar may continue to display in the previous language for a short time before changing to the new language you selected.
Text scaling may not work in the search flyout.
[File Explorer]
[NEW] In some cases, the context menu background in File Explorer may appear transparent.
Insiders may experience a File Explorer crash when dragging the scroll bar or attempting to close the window during an extended file-loading process.
Thumbnail loading performance in Gallery for dehydrated cloud files and memory usage in large collections are known issues we are focused on improving. Please capture Performance traces in Feedback Hub for any performance-related issues. Rebuilding your Indexer can help if thumbnails are missing for cloud files; Search for “Indexing Options” and look in Advanced settings to find the rebuild tool.
The count shown for selected files in the details pane may be extremely large.
Insiders who have the modernized File Explorer Home that began rolling out with Build 23475:
File Type icons are displayed in place of file thumbnails for ‘Recommended’ section (applicable to Enterprise users).
Insiders signed in with an AAD account and try to navigate the Recommended section on File Explorer Home with the tab key on the keyboard may experience an explorer.exe crash.
When navigating from another group to the Recommended section using a keyboard, focus does not appear on the group header or files appropriately.
Files display file extensions with the Show file extensions setting disabled.
Insiders who have the modernized File Explorer address bar that began rolling out with Build 23475:
Windows Insiders may notice missing craftmanship polish with the modernized address bar and search box. The team greatly appreciates the use of Feedback Hub to help call out important details to address.
Users might experience lost keyboard focus and missing keyboard shortcuts. The team implemented improved tabbing with keyboard shortcuts that will be available soon.
If “…” shows in the address bar path, selecting it will crash explorer.exe.
Insiders will have issues with the following commands on recommended files in File Explorer that began rolling out with Build 23403:
Clicking on the Share command will currently bring up the Windows share sheet (non-OneDrive).
[Notifications]
The copy button for quickly copying two-factor authentication (2FA) codes in notification toasts (first introduced in Build 23403) is currently not working in this build. A fix is coming in a future flight.
[Dynamic Lighting]
[NEW] Using Wave and Wheel effects can result in typing not working in certain apps.
All-device settings changes are not propagating to per-device Settings.
Device icons are missing from the device cards in Settings.
Switching user accounts can turn off device LEDs.
[Windows Ink]
Users can’t use handwriting to erase text in Microsoft Edge.
The address box in Microsoft Edge might not work correctly.
Windows Ink does not convert handwriting to text into the main content (e.g., Word documents and Excel spreadsheets) in Microsoft 365 applications.
Search boxes in Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., Microsoft Word) might not work correctly.
Comment fields in Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., Microsoft Word) might not work correctly.
What do you think about this Build? What about passkeys? Could they really be better than passwords? Let us know in the comments section below.
Vdsldr.exe is a software component that runs in the background and enables users to access their virtual disks. Virtual disks are created by virtualization programs such as VMware.
You’ll probably not need this file on your PC if you don’t have any virtualization software, so if you spot it in your PC and it is throwing errors, we show you how to remove it.
What is the vdsldr.exe file?
The vdsldr.exe process is a component of the Virtual Disk Service Loader. This service allows users to create virtual disks for use with virtualization software.
It’s a Microsoft Windows component that can be used by other programs or services to interact with the Virtual Disk Service Loader.
The file is created when you install your virtualization software and any other services it needs to run properly.
For example, if you’ve installed a virtualization program like VMware Workstation, you’ll have already installed this service and its associated process on your computer.
It is used by the application to connect to the virtual disk service to access and modify virtual hard disks stored on physical disks.
We recommend checking its digital signature if you’re unsure if you should be worried about it. This can be done by following the steps below:
Press Windows + E to open File Explorer and navigate to the path where you have the file.
Right-click on it and select Properties.
Click on the Digital Signatures tab to see a list of signatures in the Signature list section. The genuine publisher is Microsoft Windows Operating System. Any other name or unverified entry should be cause for alarm.
Consequently, you can also check its location. You must remove the file to prevent damage if it is found somewhere other than the following path: C:\Windows\System32
What are some of the vdsldr.exe errors?
There are many vdsldr.exe errors, and not all of them are easy to understand. If you are experiencing a problem with your computer, you may want to check the list below to see if it matches up with your problem.
vdsldr.exe – Bad Image
Cannot find vdsldr.exe
vdsldr.exe Application Error
Error starting program: vdsldr.exe
vdsldr.exe could not be found
Faulting Application Path: vdsldr.exe
vdsldr.exe could not be installed
The file vdsldr.exe is missing or corrupt
vdsldr.exe could not be launched. Class not registered
Windows failed to start – vdsldr.exe
vdsldr.exe could not be started
vdsldr.exe failed to initialize properly
vdsldr.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience
On the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot.
Now on the Troubleshoot page, click Advanced options.
On the Advanced options screen, select Startup settings.
Click Restart. Once your computer restarts, you will be given options to boot. Choose the one which takes you to Safe Mode.
Now locate the file and delete it.
5. Perform a System Restore
Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui, and hit Enter.
The System Restore window will open. Click on Next.
Select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
Now click on Finish.
And with that, we wind up our article. If, at this point, you’re yet to resolve the vdsldr.exe errors, we suggest uninstalling your virtualization software or performing a clean install.
We also have a rich list of exe files in our library, so if you spot any you’re unfamiliar with, such as the Poqexec.exe file, we explain what they are and how to remove them.
Let us know in the comment section below if you have any concerns.
The build KB5027311 has been released in the Windows 11 Insider Program, and it brings some important changes and improvements with it.
It comes as a nice surprise, considering last week Microsoft released the Patch Tuesday updates, which took care of some of the most important security vulnerabilities.
The Build 22631.1906 (KB5027311) updates for Windows 11 focus mainly on updating several graphic icons and designs so they can fit more with the Windows 11 theme.
However, there is an important and rather overlooked feature that made its way into the build. You will be able finally uninstall programs for good, just by right-clicking their shortcuts. This is particularly useful, considering that sometimes we only delete the shortcuts, and forget to actually uninstall the program.
Here’s how you can finally uninstall programs from app shortcuts
As we mentioned earlier, you uninstall programs by right-clicking on them and selecting Uninstall. Selecting this option will take you to Settings, where you can uninstall Windows 11 applications for good.
As with every Windows Insiders features, this one will be available in the next Patch Tuesday, most probably, the one from July.
But that’s not all. Here are all the features that are previewed in KB5027311:
[Taskbar & System Tray]
You can now hide the time and date in the system tray. You can turn this on by right-clicking on the system tray clock and choosing “Adjust date and time”.
When right-clicking on the network icon in the system tray, we’ve added the option to diagnose network problems.
[Lock screen]
We have updated the network flyout on the Lock screen to align with Windows 11 design principles.
[Windows Security]
We have updated the Windows Security (firewall) notification dialogs that match the Windows 11 visuals.
[Networking]
Added support for bridging adapters via command line via netsh.
[Settings]
We have added links to advanced properties for network adapters and internet properties under Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
We have added a way to view Wi-Fi passwords for your known networks via Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi and “Manage known networks”.
Based on your feedback, we have added additional options to the Data Usage page that allows for daily and weekly data limits. The page will also now show how far a data limit has been exceeded.
We added the ability to join Bluetooth Personal Area networks under the Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices. This option will appear for paired devices like Phones that are sharing internet over Bluetooth.
The settings page for wheel devices such as the Surface Dial has been updated to better match the Windows 11 design principles.
[Taskbar & System Tray]
[ADDED] Currently toggling the option to “Hide date and time in the System tray” on will show the System Tray clock while toggling it off will hide it (it’s backwards).
What are your thoughts on these new changes and improvements coming in KB5027311? What about the new feature? Let us know your opinions in the comments section below.
While trying to download a game or update an old game, you may encounter a corrupt disk error on your Steam client. This is a common error and can occur due to several reasons.
The full error reads as follows:
An error occurred while updating [your game] (disk read error) (disk corruption error), see the Steam support site for more information.
For those affected by this error, here is how to fix the corrupt disk Steam error on your Windows machine.
What does corrupt disk mean on Steam?
The data included within a file or storage device can become corrupted if that data is changed from the condition in which it was initially stored, which can cause the data to behave unexpectedly or make it altogether unreachable.
When this happens in Steam, you will have to check the app’s or game’s file integrity as we have shown below.
Why does Steam say corrupt disk?
Keep in mind that in case a BSOD or power outage interrupted the Steam game downloading process, it might have corrupted your download files.
Hence, you’ll probably get the corrupt update files error. If there are problems on your hard disk drive where you have installed Steam, it might result in this error.
In case you’re wondering what exactly is a corrupt disk, do not forget that hard drive data corruption appears when a system cannot finish writing data to a file or when segments of the file become inaccessible.
Moreover, you may encounter one of the following error variations, that are still solvable with the solutions below:
Steam corrupt disk while downloading – Delete the active download folder or rename it in order to start anew.
Steam corrupt update files – Uninstalling an update in Steam is not as easy as simply uninstalling the app altogether and reinstalling it.
Steam disk write error – Verify the integrity of the game you are trying to play as we have shown below or by going to our dedicated guide on this issue.
Steam download corrupt image Mac – Mac users can also apply some of the solutions below in order to fix this issue.
Steam corrupt disk download error – Repair the Steam folder library in order to get rid of any corrupt files.
Steam keeps saying corrupt disk – If nothing works, you may want to rely on a third-party specialized tool that will fix this error for you.
Steam download stopped corrupt disk – Reinstalling Steam is one of the best solutions that you can try if nothing else works.
How do I fix a corrupt disk on Steam?
1. Delete the active download folder or rename it
1.1 Delete the folder
Use the following keyboard shortcut to open File Explorer: Windows + E.
and navigate to the following location: C:\Program Files\Steam\Steamapps\Downloading
Steam stores every game with a unique number. Open the first folder you see inside the downloading folder with a number. Check if it belongs to the problematic game.
Delete the folder.
Exit Steam if still running. Relaunch Steam and try to install the game again.
Before moving to advanced troubleshooting, consider temporarily disabling the Firewall and antivirus. Try again, and if that doesn’t help, move to additional troubleshooting steps.
Another reason for the corrupt disk error can be the corrupt game’s files. You can try to delete the game’s files that are downloading and then restart the download from the Steam client.
1.2 Rename the folder
Locate the Downloading folder in Steamapps by navigating to the following path: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\Steamapps
Right-click on Downloading folder and select Rename. Rename the folder as Downloading12.
Next, create a new folder in the Steamapps folder and name it as Downloading.
Launch Steam and try to install the game that was giving the issue. You should be able to download and install the game now.
Rename the download folder to something else and create a new folder named downloading as shown in the steps above.
2. Verify the integrity of the game files
The corrupt disk error can also occur if the game files are corrupted or missing. Steam offers a built-in tool that checks and verifies the integrity of Game files within the client.
Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the desktop client.
2. Click on Library.
3. Right-click on the problematic game and select Properties.
4. Under Properties, click on the Local Filestab.
5. Here, click on Verify integrity of game files.
6. Steam will scan the game file for any corruption. If the verification is successful proceed with the next step.
3. Repair the Steam Library folder
Press on the Windows key, type Steam, then open the app.
From the top-left corner of the window, click on Steam.
Go to Settings.
Click on the Downloads tab, then select Steam Library Folders.
Right-click on the Steam Library Folder (or custom library folder) and select Repair Library Folder.
Steam will scan the folder and try to repair it if any problem is detected.
Try to download the games and see if the error is resolved.
If the problem is due to the default Steam Library folder, try fixing it using the Repair Steam Library Folder option. Here is how to do it.
4. Use a specialized tool to repair Steam corrupted files
Another great option you should try is a specialized repair program that will help you protect your system, by removing malware and repairing corrupted files from your PC.
These tools can easily restore and replace DLL files, with impressive databases of genuine and up-to-date files.
5. Change the download folder / Steam Library folder
Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then click on the app to open it.
From the upper-left corner of the window, click on Steam.
Now, navigate to Settings.
Click on the Downloads tab, then choose the Steam Library Folders option.
Next, click on Add Library Folder button on the pop-up dialog box.
Select a different drive on your system and click Select.
Close the Setting window and try to download and install the game with a corruption disk error.
The Steam client allows you to change the Steam Library and set a custom location to download and install games.
If the default Steam Library or the hard disk partition is corrupt, you can switch the drive to fix the error.
From the upper-right corner of the window, click on the Install Steam button.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Launch Steam and you should have all the game data intact.
If not, move the Steamapps folder from the backup drive to the following path: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam folder
As a last resort, you can try to reinstall the Steam client. Uninstalling your Steam client does not delete the game data and installed games but only the client.
Once you reinstall the Steam client, it will pick up the game data and files from the folder.
However, just to be on the safer side, take a backup of the Steamapps folder by navigating to the following folder: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam
Once the backup of the Steamapps folder is ready, proceed with uninstalling the Steam client.
Well, if you really must know, the corrupt update files error is only one of the many errors faced by Steam users in general.
It usually happens when you attempt to download a new game that you just bought or update an existing game on Steam.
That being said, know that it may also occur as a result of a power cut or a corrupted download. So there really isn’t just one cause that can trigger this.
Can I recover a corrupted hard drive?
Because many users are wondering whether or not they can recover a corrupted hard drive, we consider properly delivering some useful answers.
Well, if you’re in the same situation, keep in mind that files can be recovered from a failed hard drive by using a skilled data recovery service.
Failed hard drives cannot be salvaged with recovery software since the operating system cannot access the device to allow the application to recover the data.
We hope that our solutions helped you fix the Steam corrupt disk while downloading error and you are able to play now.
After reading this article you will be a lot more prepared to deal with Steam corrupt disk downloads. Remember that Steam corrupt downloads can be fixed with this guide.
Every time you or your friends have to put up with Steam corrupt update files, make sure you do the right thing and refer to this article.
Even if you get the Lost Ark corrupt disk error, the same troubleshooting steps will help you get out of the situation.
Stuck in Safe Mode on your Windows 10 computer and looking for a way out? Don’t worry; this guide can help!
We’ll walk you through the various methods with step-by-step instructions to safely exit Safe Mode and restore your Windows 10 computer to its regular functioning.
How can I safely exit Safe Mode on Windows 10?
Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:
Try restarting your computer; sometimes, this could load your PC in normal mode
Type msconfig and click OK to open the System Configuration window.
Navigate to the Boot tab, locate Boot options, and remove the checkmark next to Safe Boot.
Click Apply, then OK.
Select Restart to start your computer normally.
2. Use a key combination
Press the Windows key to open the Start menu and click on the Power button.
While holding the Shift key on your keyboard, click on Restart. This will initiate a restart of your computer into the Advanced Startup Options menu.
Your computer will boot into the Choose an Option screen and select Troubleshoot.
In the Troubleshoot menu, choose Advanced options.
Select Startup Settings from the Advanced options menu.
Click on the Restart button to reboot your PC.
Upon restart, you will see a list of startup options. Press the number key corresponding to Start Windows Normally orExit Safe Mode to boot into normal mode.
If you can’t find this option, press F10 to get more options.
3. Use the Command Prompt
Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Copy & paste the following command to safely exit Safe Mode and hit Enter: bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot
Once the command executes successfully, close the Command Prompt window.
Now restart your PC, and it should boot into normal mode instead of Safe Mode.
Under the Advanced startup section, click on the Restart now button. This will restart your computer in the Advanced Startup Options menu.
Your computer will boot into the Choose an Option screen and select Troubleshoot.
In the Troubleshoot menu, choose Advanced options.
Select Startup Settings from the Advanced options menu.
Click on the Restart button to restart your computer.
Once your computer is up, you will see a list of startup options. Press the number key corresponding to Exit Safe Mode, and your computer will now restart in normal mode.
5. Use the designated key during boot
If your system still supports it, you can try pressing the F8 key repeatedly during startup until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears.
Your computer will boot into the Choose an Option screen and select Troubleshoot.
In the Troubleshoot menu, choose Advanced options.
Select Startup Settings from the Advanced options menu.
Click on the Restart button to restart your computer.
Once your computer is up, you will see a list of startup options. Press the number key corresponding to Exit Safe Mode, and your computer will now restart in normal mode.
6. Use the Windows Recovery Environment
Restart your computer. As it restarts, press and hold the Power button until the computer turns off.
Press the Power button again to turn on your computer.
As soon as the manufacturer logo appears, press and hold the power button again to force the computer to turn off. Repeat steps 2 and 3 two more times.
On the third restart, Windows will enter the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
In WinRE, choose Troubleshoot.
On the next page, select Advanced options.
Select Startup Settings from the Advanced options menu.
Click Restart.
Upon restart, you will see a list of startup options. Press the number key corresponding to Disable safe mode to boot into normal mode.
So, these are the methods to exit Safe Mode safely on Windows 10 and turn your computer back on in normal mode.
If you have encountered an error message mentioning the igfxCUIService.exe file and wondering what it does and how it can crash, this guide can help!
We’ll explore what the file does, its significance, and the steps you can take to fix it if it’s crashing on your computer.
What is igfxCUIService.exe?
The igfxCUIService.exe file stands for Intel Graphics Common User Interface Service. It is a software component of Intel Common User Interface developed by Intel Corporation.
It is associated with Intel graphics drivers and is responsible for providing user interface services related to the Intel Graphics Control Panel.
The Intel Common User Interface allows users to access and configure various graphics settings, display options, and performance optimizations for Intel-integrated graphics.
If you are using an external graphics card along with this one, you may see error messages saying this executable file is missing or has crashed.
The file is located in C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository\igdlh64.inf_amd64_88119f5187d09975\. If it is found elsewhere, chances are the file is malicious. Try running an antivirus scan to be sure.
How can I fix errors related to igfxCUIService.exe?
Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:
Restart your computer.
Ensure your Windows is up to date.
If you are using an external graphics card along with this, check its Properties.
Once done, move to the detailed methods mentioned below.
1. Run Hardware and devices troubleshooter
Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command to invoke Hardware and Devices troubleshooter and hit Enter: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
On the Hardware and Devices window, click Advanced.
Select Apply repairs automatically and click Next.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.
2. Disable startup for Intel(R) HD Graphics Control Panel Service
Press Windows + R to open the Run box.
Type services.msc and click OK to open the Services app.
Locate and right-click Intel(R) HD Graphics Control Panel Service, then select Properties.
Under Services status, click Stop, and for Startup type, choose Disabled from the drop-down.
Click Apply, then OK to save the changes.
Restart your computer and check if the issue persists.
Double-click on the downloaded file, agree to the terms and click Install. To completer the installation, you might have to restart your computer.
Once your computer is up, press the Windows key, type intel driver & support assistant, and click Open.
You will get a list of driver updates available; click Download or Download all.
Click Install to install the drivers. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.
4. Run SFC & DISM scans
Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command to repair system files and hit Enter: sfc/scannow
Wait for the scan to complete, copy & paste the following command to restore Windows OS image files, and press Enter: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Once the command is successfully completed, restart your computer to save the changes.
5. Run your computer in a clean boot environment
Press Windows + R to open the Run window.
Type msconfig and click OK to open the System Configuration window.
Go to the Services tab, place a checkmark next to Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
Switch to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
Now go to each Enabled item, and click Disable. Close Task Manager.
On the System Configuration window, click Apply, then OK.
Click Restart.
Now check if the issue persists. If the issue is still there, check all the recently installed apps and services to single out the app or service causing the issue.
Once done, follow the same methods to revert the system to normal mode.
So, these are the methods you have to follow to fix the errors related to igfxCUIService.exe and restore system health.
If you are facing other issues with Intel graphics drivers, we suggest you check out this guide to find the relevant fixes. We also have a guide on Jhi_Service.exe, so feel free to check it out for more information.
Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.
If you have come across the CompPkgSrv.exe file and wondering about its role on your Windows computer, this guide can help!
We will delve into the details of CompPkgSrv.exe, explaining what it is and what it does to gain insights into its purpose and ensure smooth system operation.
What is CompPkgSrv.exe?
CompPkgSrv.exe is an executable file associated with the Component Package Server service on your Windows computer.
It manages and installs component packages and the collections of software components used by various system functions and apps.
CompPkgSrv.exe facilitates installing, removing, and updating component packages on a Windows device. This ensures the necessary software components are correctly installed and configured for apps and system processes to function properly.
The process typically runs in the background as a Windows service and is essential for properly functioning the operating system.
This executable file is a legitimate system file, and its presence in the Windows system folder is normal.
However, as with any system file, verifying its authenticity is crucial to avoid potential malware or virus infections. So, if it is not found in the System32 folder, run a malware scan for your PC’s security.
What does CompPkgSrv.exe do?
CompPkgSrv.exe performs several functions related to managing and installing component packages. Here are some of the tasks performed by the process:
1. Package management
CompPkgSrv.exe handles the installation, removal, and updating of the component packages to ensure that the necessary software components are correctly installed and configured.
2. Dependency resolution
Component packages often have dependencies on other packages or system resources. CompPkgSrv.exe identifies and resolves these dependencies, ensuring all required components are installed and available for applications and system processes.
3. Package versioning
Component packages may have different versions, and CompPkgSrv.exe helps handle version management.
It keeps track of installed package versions, checks for updates, and performs necessary upgrades to maintain system compatibility and security.
CompPkgSrv.exe handles the installation and removal of component packages.
When a new package needs to be installed, this executable file ensures the installation process is carried out correctly.
Similarly, when a package needs to be removed, it ensures a clean and complete removal.
5. Package integrity & verification
CompPkgSrv.exe performs integrity checks and verification of component packages. This ensures that the packages are not tampered with, corrupted, or modified, maintaining overall system stability and security.
6. Configuration & registration
CompPkgSrv.exe manages the configuration and registration of component packages in the Windows registry and other system databases.
This makes sure that the installed packages are correctly registered and available for use by applications and system processes.
7. Service management
CompPkgSrv.exe runs as a Windows service and handles service-related functions. It manages the startup, running, and termination of the Component Package Server service itself.
Overall, CompPkgSrv.exe is vital in managing, installing, and maintaining component packages in Windows systems. It ensures software components’ availability and proper functioning, enhancing system stability, compatibility, and performance.
Please feel free to give us any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.
Windows operating systems have many processes that run in the background, and it is important to learn about them. Among these processes, one that might look suspicious is smss.exe, which could be mistaken for suspicious activity.
Some users have noticed that smss.exe consumes a significant amount of their GPU and CPU resources, prompting them to question whether the smss.exe process is legitimate or potentially malicious.
In this article, we will discuss the purpose and functionality of the smss.exe process and whether it can be safely disabled to free up memory.
What is smss.exe used for?
Smss.exe, which stands for Session Manager Subsystem is an executable file that runs the Windows Session Manager, and it is part of the Windows NT operating system since Windows NT 3.1.
Smss.exe, one of the essential processes to run when a Windows system starts up, is responsible for initiating and managing user sessions on the computer. Smss.exe prepares the system environment variables and resources needed for user sessions.
The Session Manager is responsible for loading essential components and drivers, creating virtual memory, and so on. It also helps shutting down or restarting the computer properly by closing all the programs and user sessions.
Should you remove smss.exe?
Smss.exe is a critical component of the Windows operating system, and making any changes to it can cause serious issues with the stability and functionality of your system.
If you remove or tamper with smss.exe, your system may experience crashes, display errors, or even fail to start up altogether.
Is smss.exe Safe?
Yes, smss.exe is a legitimate Windows process, posing no threats to your computer. However, some malware may disguise itself as smss.exe, which can be dangerous for your computer’s security. To ensure the file is genuine, you can verify its location and digital signature.
Check the smss.exe location and verify its Digital Signature:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open your Task Manager.
Go to the Details tab, find and right-click on smss.exe, then select Properties.
In the General tab, check the file’s location and ensure it corresponds to one of the following: C:\Windows\System32C:\WindowsC:\Windows\System32\Event Agent\Bin
Then, switch to the Digital Signatures tab and confirm if the signer’s name is Microsoft Windows Publisher under the Signature list.
If the smss.exe is located in another folder, it is probably malware. In that case, you should immediately use an antivirus or malware removal tool to remove it from your computer. If you see that Microsoft Windows Publisher does not sign the file, it’s a good idea to do the same.
How do I fix missing or corrupt smss.exe?
1. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM scan
Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command to repair system files and press Enter:sfc /scannow
Once the scan is complete, run the DISM scan:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer.
2. Run the Check Disk utility
Press Windows + R, type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift, and click OK to run the elevated Command Prompt.
Type the following command and press Enter to repair the disk. chkdsk C: /f /r
If prompted to schedule the scan on the next restart, type Y and press Enter.
Many users have reported that they are experiencing the Blue Screen of Death errors that mentions NETwsw02.sys in the error message.
The issue is not exclusive to a specific Windows version; it has been known to occur on various Windows versions, including Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11.
However, it’s not an issue without a solution. In this guide, we have compiled a list of steps that you can follow to resolve this blue screen error on your computer.
What is the NETwsw02.sys file?
NETwsw02.sys is an SYS file associated with Intel Wireless WiFi Link Driver and Intel Wireless Network adapters. If you are experiencing a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error related to the NETwsw02.sys file, it means there’s a problem with the Intel Wi-Fi driver on your computer.
A variety of factors can cause the error; here are some common causes:
Corrupted or missing file: The NETwsw02.sys file itself may become corrupted or go missing due to various reasons, such as hardware failures, software conflicts, or malware infections.
Outdated or incompatible driver: Using an outdated or incompatible version of the Intel Wi-Fi driver can lead to conflicts and issues with the NETwsw02.sys file.
Hardware problems: Sometimes, hardware issues like a faulty wireless network adapter or incompatible components can cause the NETwsw02.sys BSoD error.
System or software conflicts: Conflicts with other system files, software, or third-party applications can also trigger this BSoD error.
How can I resolve the NETwsw02.sys BSoD error?
Before diving into more advanced solutions, let’s explore a few quick fixes you can try:
Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues with the driver.
Run a virus scan: Run a deep malware and virus scan to remove the virus infection that causes the BSoD error.
1. Run SFC and DISM scans
Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter to repair system files:sfc /scannow
Once the scan is complete, run the following commands one after the other:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Wait for the command to repair the Windows OS image.
Alongside this troubleshooting process, you can also run the ideal solution to repair and optimize your Windows PC performance. Such dedicated software will start with a full system scan to direct any single issue and then offer you the summary scan. After that, you only have to press Repair.
2. Update the Wi-Fi driver
Press the Windows + X and select the Device Manager option.
Expand the Network adapters section, right-click the Intel Wireless device under it, and select the Update driver option.
Then, choose Search automatically for drivers and install any available updates.
The main reason for the NETwsw02.sys BSOD error is having an old network driver. So, updating your driver to the latest version should fix the problem.
3. Update your PC
Press the Windows + I and select Windows Update on the left sidebar.
Click the Check for updates button on the right-side pane.
Finally, download and install the available updates and restart your PC.
4. Uninstall and reinstall the Intel Wireless Wi-Fi driver
Press the Windows+ R, type devmgmt.msc in the command box, and click OK.
Expand the Network adapters option, right-click the Intel Wireless adapter, and select the Uninstall device option.
Check the Attempt to remove the driver for this device box and click the Uninstall button.
Then, restart your PC.
Go to the official website of your computer manufacturer or the Intel website to download and install the latest version of the Intel Wi-Fi driver compatible with your specific model.
5. Perform a Clean Install of Windows
If the previous steps didn’t fix the random crashes related to the NETwsw02.sys file, there may be a problem with your system files that can’t be easily fixed.
Microsoft and the US Federal Trade Commission sparred today in an explosive first day of court proceedings over the fate of the $68.2 billion Activision Blizzard deal, and the public is now privy to confidential emails, details on secret revenue share deals, and upcoming exclusive games.
As the two opened for the day, the FTC filed 120-pages of proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law that were heavily redacted while the Microsoft and Activision filed roughly 80 combined with the onus on the plaintiffs to also defend the preliminary injunction filed earlier this week.
Microsoft began with an exhibit list for the FTC that included head of Microsoft Studios Matt Booty’s communications to executives on the Nintendo Switch team discussing Xbox games for the console, emails between head of Xbox Phils Spencer and PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan, emails between Spencer and the business strategy teams to bring multiple stores on Xbox, and discussions of “pettiness from Sony and Gamespots fanboy reviews.”
As part of public discovery early in the proceedings, a deposition from Jim Ryan included the reveal that the CEO planned not to share details about its next console with Activision if the deal closes. During the same deposition, Ryan is asked about Microsoft stewardship of Minecraft on PlayStation, which would require the company to have access to console details to provide future services, although redacted, available sentences still have the CEO concerned about a competitor having access to console development information.
Microsoft opened its case with a filing issued today that offered the admission that Xbox has lost the console wars, and its rivals are positioned to continue to dominate.” Further attempting to diminish its role in the gaming market, Microsoft revealed it made up a 16 percent share of console sales in 2021 while only 21 percent of the overall console install base.
During its 20-minute opening argument the FTC’s counsel James Weingarten set the parameters of its case by leaning on the business practice of securing exclusives for console sales and defining the market without Nintendo Switch and PCs because of pricing.
Meanwhile Microsoft spent its 20-minutes painting Sony as a continued market leader over several console generations and wants to secure its current dominance and revenue position which is fueling its opposition to the Activision deal.
Another revelation that surfaced early in the proceedings is an email from Ryan to internal staff that explained that Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard was “not an exclusivity play at all,” and that he believed PlayStation “would be fine.” Ryan’s internal email fly’s in contrast to what the CEO proceeded to do months later sharing concerns of exclusivity with regulators.
During witness examinations, Booty answered several questions pertaining to the previous state of relations between Microsoft and Sony, noting that Sony never complained about Xbox taking games away from the PlayStation platform or exclusivities being bad for the industry. Booty also clarified to the preceding judge that Xbox players and Nintendo Switch players can make use of cross-play technologies while Sony has made the effort unnecessarily difficult for gamers.
Another witnessed called today was head of publishing for Bethesda Pete Hines where he revealed during a redirect of questioning that the company had already signed an agreement with Disney to provide a previously undisclosed Indiana Jones game as cross platform before Microsoft acquired the studio and cancelled its multi-platform release.
FTC lawyers then seized on the opportunity to continue its narrative of Microsoft’s recent history with acquisitions and exclusivity releases with Bethesda’s Redfall and Starfield games becoming Xbox exclusives after initially being planned to be multiplatform.
While Hines did offer some validity to the FTCs concerns about Microsoft’s potential to hoard games for exclusivity privileges, he did end his time being question by drilling home the profile difference between unreleased games and a industry staple like Call of Duty.
Last to be questioned today was cvp of Xbox Sara Bond who shifted the conversation to the duopoly in mobile gaming between Google and Apple with Microsoft’s only presence being Minecraft, as well as the 80/20 revenue split the company pays to certain developers to get games to the platform, which is slightly higher than its documented 70/30 split for most others.
Bond also walked FTC lawyers and the judge through the details of Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate, how xCloud servers differ from Azure ones, stipulations on Xbox marketing of CoD due to Sony and Activision agreements, launching games on NVIDIA GFN, the difference between first- and third-party games, and a clause in the 10-year deals Microsoft has been offering that includes “unanticipated or unforeseeable circumstances.”
The day wrapped up with the biggest revelations revealed by Bond in regard to how cloud gaming works and that Microsoft planned to offer xCloud as a standalone service before it began becoming a user-success, and that xCloud loses Microsoft money the more people use it due to infrastructure and server costs.
Tomorrow offers to be another big day for both Microsoft and the FTC as the witness list includes Phil Spencer, Jim Ryan via video deposition, Microsoft finance director Jamie Lawver, and former Stadia head Dov Zimring.
Recently, a study has shown that over 80% of Microsoft Teams accounts were hacked at least one time, in 2022. What’s even more worrying is the fact that the same study reported that 60% of Microsoft Teams accounts were successfully hacked. That is a worrying number, but just how easily can Microsoft Teams be hacked, in this case?
Well, it turns out Teams can be very easily hacked. New research conducted by JUMPSEC’s Red Team discovered that Team is actually prone to modern malware. And external tenants can easily bring malware into Microsoft Teams as well.
How can this happen? There is a vulnerability in the latest version of Microsoft Teams. This vulnerability allows the malware to infiltrate any organization using Microsoft Teams in its default configuration.
The hacker can bypass the client-side security controls. These security controls prevent external tenants from sending files (malware in this case) to staff in your organization.
IDOR in Microsoft Teams allows for the introduction of malware
The exploitation is possible through a vulnerability in the client-side security controls. In Microsoft Teams, certain security controls can be implemented client-side.
So that means one hacker can impersonate an individual from your organization, and by bypassing these controls, they will be able to send you malicious files. This coupled with another vulnerability, allows the hacker to send malicious files directly into your inbox.
The research states that this method can bypass nearly all modern anti-phishing security controls. However, it requires the hacker to buy a domain similar to your target organizations and register it with M365.
But it impacts every organization using Teams in the default configuration, so this vulnerability has a huge potential for being exploited by threat actors.
The vulnerability was acknowledged by Microsoft, and the Redmond-based tech giant even validated its legitimacy. However, the tech giant said it did not meet the bar for immediate servicing.
There are still things your organization can do to protect themselves. According to the research, you can do the following:
Review if there is a business requirement for external tenants to have permission to message your staff.
Educate staff on the possibility of productivity apps such as Teams, Slack, Sharepoint, etc, for launching social engineering campaigns.
As you can see, while Teams is a very popular app for organizations to use, it’s also extremely vulnerable to attacks. However, since vulnerabilities like these are often patched in updates, you should also keep your Teams updated to the latest version, all the time. You can read the research in full here.
What do you think about this vulnerability? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.
0x80244002 error code usually means there’s a problem with a Windows update service (WSUS), which can make it difficult for you to install updates on your computer.
Unfortunately, sometimes you might encounter errors like the 0x80244002 when trying to update Windows, which can prevent you from installing the latest updates. In this article, we have gathered why this error happens and provided several steps to fix it.
What is error code 0x80244002 in Windows Update?
Error code 0x80244002 usually occurs when there are problems with the Windows Update service or difficulties connecting to the Windows Update servers. There are several reasons why this error may happen:
Internet connection issues: If your computer is having trouble connecting to the Internet or the Internet connection is unstable, it can result in this error.
Firewall or antivirus interference: Third-party antivirus programs or firewalls can sometimes interfere with the Windows Update process.
Corrupt Windows Update cache: If the Windows Update cache becomes corrupted, it can cause issues with downloading or installing updates, resulting in the error.
Misconfigured Windows Update settings: Incorrect or misconfigured settings related to Windows Update can also trigger error 0x80244002.
Server-side issues: Sometimes, the Windows Update servers themselves may experience technical difficulties or undergo maintenance, which can temporarily prevent your computer from downloading updates.
How do I fix the Windows Update error code 0x80244002?
Check your Internet connection: Make sure you have a stable Internet connection and can access websites without any issues. If your Internet connection is not working properly, fix the connectivity problem first.
Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary errors or connection issues. Restart your device and try updating again.
Disable the antivirus/firewall: Temporarily disable the antivirus or firewall software you have installed and try updating again.
1. Clear Windows Update cache
Press Windows + R, type the following path, and press Enter: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download
Select all the files in the folder and delete them by clicking the Delete button on the Ribbon.
2. Run SFC and DISM scans
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type cmd, hold the Ctrl + Shift key, and click OK to open the elevated command prompt.
Click Yes on the User Account Control prompt window.
Type the following command and press Enter:sfc /scannow
After completing the system file checker (SFC) scan, proceed to run the DISM scan. Type in the following commands and press Enter after each:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
After performing the SFC and DISM scans, restart your computer and check if the 0x80244002 error has been resolved.
Given that such Windows commands may not solve the issue completely, we suggest you try a PC repair solution, that will diagnose the Windows and replace damaged system files automatically.
3. Run Windows troubleshooter
Press Windows + I to open Windows Settings app.
In the left pane, choose System, then scroll down and click on the Troubleshoot tile.
Click on Other troubleshooters on the Troubleshoot settings page.
Now, click the Run button next to Windows Update.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
Then, close the troubleshooter and restart the computer.
4. Restart Windows Update-related services
Press Windows + R, type services.msc in the command box, and click OK.
Locate the Windows Update service, right-click on it, then choose Restart.
Similarly, find and restart the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic Services using the same method.
Once you have restarted these services, reboot your Windows system.
5. Reset Windows update components
Press the Windows key to open the Start menu, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
Click Yes in the User Account Control prompt.
Type the following commands and Enter after each line:net stop bitsnet stop wuauservnet stop appidsvcnet stop cryptsvcDel "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*"rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Qrmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Qcd /d %windir%\system32regsvr32.exe /s atl.dllregsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dllregsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dllregsvr32.exe /s jscript.dllregsvr32.exe /s wuapi.dllregsvr32.exe /s wuaueng.dllregsvr32.exe /s wups.dllnetsh winsock resetnetsh winsock reset proxynet start bitsnet start wuauservnet start appidsvcnet start cryptsvc
After that, restart your computer, and check if the Windows Update throws the 0x80244002 error again.
Azure Quantum Elements uses AI, quantum computing and high-performance computing to accelerate scientific discoveries. It will be a very useful tool for scientists and product developers working with chemical matter and material science.
Microsoft promises scientists will be able to make advances in chemistry with unprecedented speed, scale, and accuracy. Moreover, industry innovators, including BASF, AkzoNobel, AspenTech, Johnson Matthey, SCGC, and 1910 Genetics have already adopted Azure Quantum Elements to transform their research and development.
According to Microsoft, Azure Quantum Elements will be available in a private preview in a few weeks, and you can sign up today to learn more.
Compressing a year into one minute with Azure Quantum Elements
Apparently, Azure Quantum Elements is a very powerful tool. As a scientist, or product developer, you’ll be able to:
Reduce time to impact and costs and bring innovative products to market more quickly.
Dramatically increase the search space for new materials, to tens of millions of potential new candidates.
Speed up certain chemistry simulations by 500,000 times, which is like compressing a year into one minute.
Address quantum chemistry problems today with AI and HPC, while experimenting with existing quantum hardware and getting priority access to Microsoft’s quantum supercomputer in the future.
And speaking of the quantum supercomputer, Microsoft plans to build one in the future.
A quantum supercomputer will be able to solve problems that are intractable on a classical computer and scale to solve the most complex problems facing our world. To do this, it must be both performant and reliable. Customers need to understand how capable a quantum system is of solving real problems, from the machine to the network overhead. That’s why measuring a supercomputer can’t be about counting physical or logical qubits.
Microsoft
You can check the roadmap for it here.
And of course, Copilot is coming to Azure Quantum as well.
With Copilot in Azure Quantum, a scientist can accomplish complex tasks on top of a fabric of cloud supercomputing, advanced AI and quantum all integrated with the tools they use today. It can generate the underlying calculations and simulations, query and visualize data and help get guided answers to complicated concepts. Just as Copilot in other Microsoft products is transforming software development, productivity and search, our ambition is for Copilot in Azure Quantum to transform and accelerate scientific discovery — whether it’s creating safer and more sustainable products, accelerating drug discovery or solving the most pressing challenges on the planet.
Microsoft
What do you think about it? Are you excited about the new scientific discoveries ahead? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.
What causes STATUS_ACCESS_DENIED in Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge might encounter Access Denied error if the UAC settings are high.
Not having the necessary permissions, such as administrative privileges or file/folder access, could prompt the errors.
Antivirus or firewall software can mistakenly block Microsoft Edge’s access to resources or websites.
Misconfigured settings within Microsoft Edge or corrupted browser data can cause this error.
Windows or Microsoft Edge updates can install new features or changes that affect access permissions.
Network restrictions set by network administrators can also cause access-denied errors in Microsoft Edge.
How can I fix STATUS_ACCESS_DENIED Microsoft Edge?
Before attempting any advanced troubleshooting steps, we recommend you go through the following preliminary checks:
Run Microsoft Edge as an administrator to give the browser elevated permissions.
Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall software to fix the error.
Update Microsoft Edge and Windows OS to resolve this issue.
1. Clear Microsoft Edge cache and cookies
Launch the Microsoft Edge app on your computer. Further, click on the three dots on the top right side and select Settings.
Now, select the Privacy, search, and services option on the left side panel menu,
Further, navigate to the Clear browsing data section, and select the Choose what to clear option.
Then, 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 filesoption. Then click on Clear now.
Clearing the browser cache and cookies will delete all corrupt data and files and fix the STATUS_ACCESS_DENIED error in Microsoft Edge.
In addition, do not hesitate to check our guide about how to clear the computer cache in Windows 11.
2. Reset Microsoft Edge
Launch the Microsoft Edge app on your computer. Click on the three dots on the top right side and select Settings.
Scroll down, click on the Reset settings option, and click Restore settings to their default values.
Click on the Reset button.
After the reset is complete, Microsoft Edge will open with its default settings restored.
Resetting the browser will resolve issues related to misconfigured settings and other underlying problems. Hence, it fixes the STATUS_ACCESS_DENIED error in Microsoft Edge.
During the pandemic, small businesses were especially affected by lockdowns and a lack of social presence. Now, after a post-COVID period, inflation remains high, putting additional pressure on this kind of business.
However, this is where AI comes to the rescue. By adopting AI and AI-based tools, small companies were able to overcome a lot of challenges, including financial and management ones. According to Microsoft, small businesses everywhere are intrigued by AI. Especially because it brings a lot opportunities in areas where it doesn’t seem it would bring any.
Here’s why Microsoft thinks AI can grow your small business
Microsoft conducted a survey of 1,000 small business owners with 0-24 employees and they found some very interesting facts about AI in the business world.
According to the Small Business State of Mind report, it turns out there are four main points to consider when talking about AI in a small business.
Balancing act
Inflation as well as data security are the biggest pain points of any small business.
65% of small business owners are blaming inflation as the main factor for their financial struggles. And with financial struggles, there are also many other struggles, including a tight budget for security.
49% of small business owners agree that data security is essential, but many don’t have the money for it. So it all falls on the hope that they won’t get affected by security breaches.
Automating a lot of a small company’s processes with AI would free up the budget to invest in other areas, such as data security.
Entrepreneur to admin
Small business owners focus too much on daily tasks, to think about innovation, though they want to innovate.
47% of small business owners are too focused on daily tasks, to even think about innovation in their company.
59% of small business owners want to innovate, though, And they would spend more time on new ideas if only they could find the time.
Tools such as Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Edge, that incorporate AI in their features could also greatly improve the workflow. If time is required to think about new ideas, then AI could very easily make that time.
AI Optimism in your small business
47% of small business owners say AI is a game changer and a valuable asset to their company.
88% of small business owners who consider themselves experts on it, think the same.
This means AI is already seen as a game changer for small businesses. Potentially, it could even be a tool to make their companies grow.
However, according to the study, only:
10% of small business owners know how to use AI for their work-related tasks.
67% of small business owners know nothing about AI in general.
But overall, 79% of small business owners want to learn more about using AI in their companies. Another study conducted by Microsoft says that early adopters are four times more likely to be confident in their business as they progress against business objectives. So it’s a good thing many small business owners want to learn more about AI.
Overall, AI can greatly improve the infrastructure of your small company, if you know how to use it. You could easily automatize tasks with AI. You can easily create content for your marketing strategy using AI. Ai would not only mean more time, but more money as well.
Are you a small business owner? What do you thin about using AI in your company? Let us know your opinions in the comments section below.
The file:///tmp/error.html error message in Google Chrome indicates t an issue loading a web page from the local file system. The file path suggests the browser was trying to access a file named error.html within the /tmp directory.
ATI display drivers are crucial software components that facilitate the operations of ATI graphics cards. Many Windows users have difficulty getting the driver running on their computers. Hence, this guide will discuss the steps for downloading and installing the ATI display driver for Windows 10 & 11.
What does ATI display drivers do? The ATI (now known as AMD Radeon) display drivers are software components that enable your computer’s OS to communicate with, control, and optimize ATI graphics cards or GPUs.
Here are some functions and responsibilities of ATI display drivers:
Hardware communication between OS and the graphics card.
Managing screen resolution, refresh rate, color depth, and other settings.
2D and 3D rendering.
Video playback and acceleration.
Adjusting display via the dedicated control panel.
How do I download my ATI graphics driver?
1.1 Identify your graphics card
Right-click on the desktop, and select Display settings or Screen resolution.
Then, click on Advanced display settings.
Look for the Display adapter properties or Advanced settings option to find the graphics card model.
The graphics card model will help you determine the specific model of your ATI/AMD Radeon graphics card.
1. 2 Download and install the ATI driver
Open a web browser and visit the official AMD Support website to see the latest drivers and support for AMD Radeon graphics cards.
Then, choose the appropriate options based on your graphics card model and the version of your Windows.
Look for the latest version and click on the Download button next to it.
Now, locate the downloaded driver file on your computer (usually in your Downloads folder) and double-click on it to start the installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the installer.
Finally, after the installation is complete, restart your computer.
The above steps will download and install the appropriate ATI display driver for your Windows PC. Further, check our guide on what to do if AMD drivers are not installing on Windows 11.
Most of you surely remember the 2023 May Build conference, an annual event hosted by the Redmond-based tech company.
During this event, Microsoft launched the first preview version of the Dev Home app, and that’s what we’re going to talk about today.
This app is designed for developers to get several features, including the new Dev Drive, WinGet configuration, and GitHub codespaces together in one place.
We’re about to take a much closer look at it, the bug fixes, and all of the new features that are coming with the new version.
Check out the new and improved Dev Home Preview app
Indeed, today Microsoft announced the release of the 0.2 preview version of the Dev Home app, and it includes quite a few improvements, along with some bug fixes.
Just as a reminder, this app features a streamlined setup tool that enables you to install apps and packages in a centralized location.
It also allows extensions that make it easier for you to connect to your developer accounts and a customizable dashboard with a variety of developer-focused widgets.
As far as this release is concerned, let’s take a more in-depth look at the changelog and see what’s new:
Miscellaneous improvements
A WinGet YAML configuration file for NodeJS has been added to the repository.
The dashboard now displays a loading progress ring while loading widgets.
System widget graphs now use antialiasing for a smoother appearance.
Core widgets now work on Arm64 devices.
The repository cloning tool now shows you repositories you’ve previously cloned.
Bug fixes
Switching the theme doesn’t get into a broken state anymore (we’re pretty sure).
Installing apps through the end-to-end setup tool shouldn’t crash anymore.
Background contrast should be much better now.
The add widget dialogs now dynamically size with the window, ensuring all buttons are clickable.
Note that if you are a developer, you can get more info on the Dev Home app on Microsoft’s documents site.
Microsoft is really taking a big step into AI development. Last month, AI was at the forefront of the Microsoft Build conference, and the Redmond-based tech even announced that Copilot is coming to Windows 11. As a native built-in app, for everything you need,
AI is coming to Microsoft Teams as well, in its Recap Ai tool. And a lot of other tools from Microsoft will use AI, including Microsoft Fabric.
And now there is time for another big breakthrough in AI research, coming from Microsoft, of course. The new 1.3B-parameter model coding LLM, called phi-1, is reportedly outperforming GPT 3.5, in only 4 days of training.
What is phi-1 and how does it outperform GPT already?
Phi-1 is a new 1.3B-parameter language model for code, with a significantly smaller size than competing models. The language model was trained for 4 days, over 7B tokens (slightly over 50B total tokens seen) followed by finetuning on less than 200M tokens.
Despite being a lot smaller than the competing models, phi-1 attained 50.6% pass@1 accuracy on HumanEval and 55.5% pass@1 accuracy on MBPP (Mostly Basic Python Programs), which are one of the best self-reported numbers using only one LLM generation.
Moreover, despite being trained on much fewer tokens compared to existing models, phi-1 still has a lot of potentials.
The improvements on HumanEval are the phi-1 greatest achievements, as a language model. After tuning, phi-1 managed to execute tasks that were not featured in the finetuning dataset. This means the model adapted and improved the fine-tuning process.
And the most remarkable thing is that phi-1 reorganized and consolidated the knowledge acquired during pretraining, even though the knowledge was not explicitly present there in the first place.
In shorter words, phi-1 not only learns during training but also expands the knowledge on its own. It managed to outperform GPT 3.5 on every level, and it’s just a matter of time until the small model takes on the big ones, like GPT 4.
What do you think about this new AI model? Where do you think AI research is heading? Be sure to let us know your opinions in the comments section below.
Many Windows users have reported an error message No audio output device installed appearing randomly on their computers. The error occurs when the operating system can’t detect or communicate with an audio device. However, this guide will discuss how to fix the issue.
Check hardware connections and ensure that everything is properly connected.
Run the Windows audio troubleshooter to fix the common errors.
Check for Windows updates to prevent any audio bugs.
1. Update your audio Output driver with the Generic device
Right-click the Start button and select the Device Manager from the drop-down.
Now, expand the Audio inputs and outputs category. Right-click on your audio output driver and select Update driver from the drop-down menu.
Click the Browse my computer for drivers option.
Then, click on Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
Check the box for the Show compatible hardware option. Further, select Generic software device and click Next.
Wait for Windows to finish installing the drivers for the device.
Close the Device Manager and check if the error persists.
The above steps will help reinstall the audio output driver with a generic device driver and resolve the error.
At the same time, you can update any drivers from your PC using one of the greatest open-source driver updaters and get the latest sound drivers 100% automatically.
2. Enable the audio device
Right-click on the volume icon on the taskbar and select Playback devices from the context menu.
In the Sound window, check if the audio device is disabled.
If your audio device is not listed, right-click and check the box for the Show Disabled devices option.
Then, right-click on the disabled device and select Enable.
Set the enabled device as the default playback device. Click Apply and then OK.
Enabling the disabled audio device will make it recognizable to the computer and allow the device to use it when needed.
We all know what the Dark Mode feature is for most of the browsers or other apps we use, so there’s no need of going further into that.
And, if your favorite browser is Microsoft’s Edge, then you will be pleased to know that Dark Mode will be greatly improved.
By the way, if you need any help activating Dark Mode on Edge, we got you covered. Now, let’s see what all the fuss is about today.
Are we getting an improved Dark Mode for Edge?
The Redmond tech giant began working on dark mode or dark theme for Edge somewhere around 2018, maybe even 2019.
In fact, Microsoft started testing some of the elements in June 2019 in the Canary Preview Channel, and about four months later, it rolled out a feature that would allow users to enable dark mode on websites they would visit.
Now, fast forward a few years to 2022, an Edge Dev channel update made the transition from darker themes to lighter themes and vice versa much smoother when toggled between the two.
Not to mention that, later on in that same year, Microsoft added a dark theme to window mode context menus.
It’s time to move on, however, and the company will soon be adding more darker Dark theme option to the Edge browser.
As a matter of fact, a recent Twitter post has revealed that the Redmond giant is now testing a new Dark theme on the Canary channel.
Apparently, in Edge Canary Microsoft is testing a full black background for the tab strip, toolbar, favorites bar, vertical tabs, and sidebar.
This leak also comes with screenshots of the new theme. The Dev and the Beta channels still possess the current Dark theme. The Canary screenshots are below while the Dev and Beta are on top.
One might think that Microsoft will offer both options simultaneously so users who prefer the darker tone can choose it, though this is entirely speculation for now.
Most likely, the Edge development team could completely replace the current Dark theme with the upcoming darker one.
What are your thoughts on this new Microsoft initiative involving Edge? Share your opinions with us in the comments section below.
At the Xbox Games Showcase 2023 and Starfield Direct event, a lot of important Xbox news was unveiled. A lot of new games are coming, and a new 1 TB Series S console is also making its way into your home, but the most important news is exciting. You’ll be able to stream select PC games from the library through NVIDIA GeForce Now.
What does that mean? It means you’ll be pretty much able to play any games from the PC game pass catalog on any device that GeForce Now streams to. This includes low-spec PCs, Macs, Chromebooks, mobile devices, TVs, and more.
This is not all, though. This feature is coming very soon, with Microsoft rolling it out in a few months. And, to make things even better, the PC game pass catalog will add new games more frequently. So you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite games everywhere you go.
What else is coming for Xbox besides the Game Pass on NVIDIA GeForce Now?
There are a lot of exciting new things coming for Xbox in the following months. Besides the Game Pass, Microsoft announced that there are currently over 5000 games in development for the platform. A record in the Xbox’s history. The 5000 games are being created by developers across 100 countries, in a roadmap that focuses on inclusivity and diversity.
And speaking of diversity, Microsoft promises that there’s a video game for each one of us. The tiles will be focusing on multiple genres, with stories that will be inclusive and memorable. You’ll never know when you’re going to stumble upon your next favorite game, Microsoft says.
With this wellspring of games to come, our vision is to enable Xbox to offer the most diverse, easy-to-access line-up in the industry – you’re never far from finding your next favorite game.
Microsoft
At the event, Starfield was the main character, with a release on Xbox, PC, and Steam. Hoping to become Besheda’s most-played title, Starfield will be added to Game Pass right from the start. You’ll be able to play it on Xbox, PC, and Cloud.
However, there are many other interesting titles coming to Xbox as well. Dungeons of Hinterberg, Forza Motorsport, and South of Midnight are just a few games that will benefit from the power of the Xbox Series X.
While other games, such as Fable, Clockwork Revolution, and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, hotly awaited by fans, will make their way to the Xbox as well.
Here, the acquisition would benefit consumers by making Call of Duty available on Microsoft’s Game Pass on the day it is released on console (with no price increase for the service based on the acquisition), on Nintendo, and on other services that allow cloud streaming.
This is some good news, considering games like Call of Duty and Diablo 4 are making their way to the service. It would help boost the GamePass signups. You can read the court filing document here, the statement is on page 25.
Update: it seems Microsoft will rise the prices of subscriptions for Game Pass and Xbox Series X, according to The Verge. In the US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia, the price of Xbox Series X will remain the same, while in the rest of the countries, the prices will spike in the following months.
The Xbox Game Pass price also increases everywhere, except Norway, Chile, Denmark, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia. The new prices are expected to be implemented from August 13th onwards.
Here are all the details:
New Xbox Game Pass pricing
Country
Currency
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate current
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate new
Game Pass for Console current
Game Pass for Console new
Argentina
ARS
899
1449
599
1199
Australia
AUD
15.95
18.95
10.95
11.95
Austria
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Belgium
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Brazil
BRL
44.99
49.99
29.99
32.99
Canada
CAD
16.99
18.99
11.99
12.99
Chile
CLP
7990
8990
5990
5990
Colombia
COP
29900
33900
19900
21900
Czech Republic
CZK
339
389
259
269
Denmark
DKK
99
109
79
79
Finland
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
France
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Germany
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Greece
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Hong Kong SAR
HKD
79
85
59
65
Hungary
HUF
4190
4790
3000
3190
India
INR
499
549
349
379
Ireland
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Israel
ILS
39.99
44.99
27.99
30.99
Italy
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Japan
JPY
1100
1210
850
935
Korea
KRW
11900
13500
7900
8500
Mexico
MXN
229
249
149
159
The Netherlands
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
New Zealand
NZD
19.95
21.95
12.95
13.95
Norway
NOK
125
139
99
99
Poland
PLN
54.99
62.99
40
42.99
Portugal
EEUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Saudi Arabia
SAR
39.99
44.99
29.99
29.99
Singapore
SGD
13.99
15.9
9.99
10.9
Slovakia
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
South Africa
ZAR
119
129
79
85
Spain
EUR
12.99
14.99
9.99
10.99
Sweden
SEK
135
155
99
105
Switzerland
CHF
14.99
16.99
12
12
Taiwan
TWD
299
338
199
219
Turkey
TRY
44.99
120.99
29.99
79.99
UAE
USD
9.99
11.99
6.99
7.99
UK
GBP
10.99
12.99
7.99
8.99
US
USD
14.99
16.99
9.99
10.99
What do you think about the new prices? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.
Zoom is one of the most popular video conferencing software available today. Some of its users have reported that they cannot access the service due to connection errors.
If you’re unable to access Zoom due to the unable to establish a secure connection to Zoom error, this article will cover the necessary steps needed to fix it.
What causes unable to establish a secure connection to Zoom?
The following are some of the most common causes of the unable to establish a secure connection to Zoom error:
Poor Internet Connection – If your PC’s internet connection is weak or unstable, Zoom will have difficulties connecting to the server which can trigger the unable to establish a secure connection to Zoom.
Outdated Software – If you’re running an outdated version of the Zoom app, you’ll run into occasional errors which can prevent you from accessing the service.
Corrupt app data – If the existing calendar or contact data of the Zoom client is corrupt, it can lead to errors like the unable to establish a secure connection to Zoom.
Incorrect System date & time – Apps like Zoom work in sync with international dates & time zones; if your PC’s date or time is incorrect, it can trigger errors on the Zoom client.
What can I do if I get unable to establish a secure connection to Zoom?
Before we proceed with more advanced solutions, here are a couple of quick fixes you can try:
If the error remains unfixed, the following are advanced troubleshooting solutions to help you resolve the error:
1. Delete the Existing Data and Contact Integration Settings
Press the Windows key, enter your browser’s name in the search bar, and hit Enter.
Navigate to the Zoom website and sign in to your Zoom account using your credentials.
Click on the Navigation menu at the top right corner, and click Profile.
Then, click Others in the Calendar and Contact Integration section, and locate the existing integration.
Click the Delete button next to the Existing Calendar and contact integration.
If a verification prompt pops up, click Delete again to confirm.
Once the configuration and contact data are deleted, you can reconfigure the Zoom app’s calendar and Contacts settings.
While using the Zoom Client, files can get corrupted due to storage patterns, disk failure, viruses, etc. If the app data is corrupt, it can lead to errors; deleting it is one way to fix the error.
2. Update the Zoom app
Press the Windows key, type Zoom in the search bar, and hit Enter to launch the app.
Once you’re signed in, click on the profile icon at the window’s top right corner to open a drop-down menu. Click Check for Updates in the drop-down menu to update the app.
You’ll receive the You are up-to-date prompt if there are no available updates.
However, click on Install to initiate the process, and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update.
Once the update is complete, restart your PC and check if the error is fixed.
Developers release occasional updates to fix bugs and errors; if the Zoom connection error is triggered by a bug, updating the app can fix it.
3. Reinstall Zoom
Press the Windows key, type Zoom in the Windows search bar, and select Uninstall from the drop-down menu.
Restart your PC, and navigate to the Zoom download page to download and install the app
Reinstalling the Zoom Client reverts the app to its default settings; this can help fix the connection error.
Right-click the time and date on your taskbar and select Adjust Date/Time.
If the date or time is incorrect, toggle the switch to set them automatically.
Alternatively, click Change to set it manually.
Then, adjust the date and time and click the Change button.
Now, launch the Zoom app to see if the error is fixed.
Applications like Zoom require your PC’s date and time to set calendars, meetings, etc. accurately; if your PC’s date and time are incorrect, it can lead to connection errors. Here is a detailed guide on how to set your PC date and time.
Zoom error messages are usually triggered due to poor internet connection. However, it can also be triggered by secondary causes.
With the steps in this article, you should be able to fix the unable to establish connection error.
Excel is one of Office 365 most popular applications. However, the apps are prone to occasional errors. Users sometimes experience automatic file closure while using the app.
This can be very frustrating if you’re unable to resolve the error. Luckily, this article has assembled a list of the most effective ways to fix the automatic file closing in Excel.
Why are Excel files closing automatically? The following are the major reasons why Excel files close automatically:
Outdated MS App – If you’re running an outdated version of Office 365, you’re bound to run into a series of errors, including automatic file closure in Excel.
Poor Network Connection – If your PC has an unstable internet connection, it’ll be unable to connect to the Microsoft server, causing files to close automatically.
Incompatible Add-Ins – MS Excel utilizes Add-Ins to improve the app’s functionality. However, such Add-Ins can interfere with the app’s operations and cause automatic closing of files.
Insufficient Memory – MS Office apps require sufficient memory to operate; if your PC is overloaded with running background apps, it causes a memory shortage, leading to crashes during app launch.
Corrupt Software or App Data – If the MS Excel app is corrupt or has corrupt files in the application folder, it can lead to occasional crashes and errors.
How can I fix Excel files if it’s closing automatically?
Apply the following checks before anything else:
Start Excel in Safe Mode – Running Excel in Safe Mode launches the app without loading Excel Add-Ins; this will help you determine if any Add-Ins trigger the error.
Update Excel – Errors and bugs are fixed in each update released by Developers; if the error is triggered by a bug, updating the Excel app can help fix it.
If the issue persists, kindly follow our recommendations below:
1. Disable Excel Add-Ins
Close the Excel app, and relaunch it by double-clicking the app icon on your desktop.
In the Excel window, click File and select Options.
Click on Add-ins in the next window, select COM Add-ins, and click on Go.
Ensure all the checkboxes are unchecked, and click OK.
Close Microsoft Excel and restart the application to see if the error persists.
Excel Add-Ins help improve the UI and functionality of the app. However, they can conflict with the app’s functionality, leading to errors and crashes. Disabling them can help you fix the file closure error on Excel.
2. Repair MS Office
Press the Windows key + R, type appwiz.cpl in the dialogue box, and hit Enter.
In the Programs and Features window, right-click on Microsoft 365, and select Change.
Now, select Quick Repair and click the Repair button.
Launch the Excel app to see if the error is fixed.
While using the Excel app, it can get corrupted by viruses or malware; performing a repair can fix the automatic file closure.
3. Disable hardware graphics acceleration
Press the Windows key, type Microsoft Excel in the search bar, and hit Enter.
In the Excel window, click on File and select Options.
Then, click Advanced, check the box next to Disable hardware graphics acceleration, and click OK.
Close the Excel app and restart it to see if the error is fixed.
MS Animation is an excellent feature of Office 365 but usually takes up a lot of resources; if low memory is triggering the error, disabling the feature can help resolve it.
If your files are closing automatically while using Excel, it can get pretty annoying, especially when you have no clue how to fix it. Luckily, this article has provided a comprehensive guide on the best ways to fix the Excel file closing error. You can also learn how to turn off AutoSave.
If you’ve successfully resolved the error, feel free to let us know which solution did the trick by dropping a comment below.
The error message Telnet could not open a connection to the host occurs when users attempt to use Telnet. When using the Telnet protocol, it indicates a problem establishing a network connection between the local machine and the target host. Hence, we’ll discuss how to fix the problem.
If a Telnet service is not running it can result in a connection error.
DNS resolution failure can prevent you from connecting to a host.
What can I do if Telnet could not open connection to the host?
Before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting steps, we recommend you try the following preliminary checks:
Restart your computer and check if that fixes the temporary glitch.
Perform a clean boot and ensure that nothing interferes with the connection.
Verify network connectivity and make sure your connection is stable.
Troubleshoot DNS and make sure that everything is working properly.
1. Configure Firewall to allow Telnet connections
Left-click the Start button, type Windows Firewall in the search box, then select it from the results.
Select Advanced Settings.
Click on Inbound Rules from the left-hand pane, then select the New Rule option.
Under the Rule Type, select Port, then click Next.
Select TCP and Specific Local Ports. Enter 23 in the port number bar and click the Next button.
Click the Allow Connection option and Next.
Specify when the new rule can be applied. (Domain, Private, and Public)
Rename the Inbound Rule to Telnet, then click the Finish button.
Restart your PC and test Telnet functionality again to see if the error persists.
Creating the new rule prevents Windows Firewall from blocking the Telnet inbound connection and resolves the access to the host error. Adding an inbound rule also fixes the 443 error code.
2. Enable the Telnet client feature
Press the Windows + I key to open the Windows Settings app.
Click on Apps and then choose Optional Features from the left sidebar.
Click on View features button beside Add a feature and search for Telnet Client.
Select Telnet Client from the list and click the Install button to enable it.
The Telnet Client feature might not be running or enabled on the host device because Windows 11 does not activate it by default.
MS Office plays host to a couple of errors that prevent users from accessing the service, one of which is the Microsoft Access Error 7731.
If you’re experiencing Microsoft Access Error 7731, this article briefly discusses some of the most common causes of the error and provides you with steps to fix it.
What causes Microsoft Access Error 7731?
Here are the common causes of Microsoft Access Error 7731:
Virus and Malware – A PC infected with a virus tends to function abnormally; if your PC is infected, it can trigger the Microsoft Access Error 7731.
Poor Internet Connection – Microsoft Access requires a stable internet connection to function properly; if your internet connection is unstable, it can lead to Error 7731.
Outdated MS Office – If you’re running an outdated version of MS Office, you’ll experience errors while using the MS apps.
Incompatible Drivers – Windows utilizes drivers to function correctly; installing incompatible Drivers can lead to errors like the Microsoft Access Error 7731.
Insufficient Memory – Running too many applications simultaneously drains your PC’s memory; once your PC runs out of memory, you’ll experience frequent crashes, which can cause Error 7731.
How can I fix Microsoft Access Error 7731?
Before we proceed with more advanced solutions, here are a few quick fixes you can attempt:
If the error persists after attempting the above fixes, here are more advanced solutions you can try:
1. Close high-end background programs
Press the Ctrl + Alt + Del keys simultaneously to open the Task Manager.
Navigate to the Processes tab, and scroll through the list of applications to locate the Programs using up memory.
Click on each of the Programs, and click the End task button to end each task.
Once you end a process, launch Microsoft Access to see if it fixes the error.
Repeat the steps till you find the process triggering the error, and close the Task Manager.
If you’ve got too many running background apps, it leads to memory shortage, crashes, and application errors. Closing such programs frees space and can help fix the Microsoft Access Error 7731.
2. Update MS Access
Press the Windows key, type Microsoft Access in the search bar, and hit Enter.
In the Access app, click on File and click Account. In the next window, click on Update Options next to Office Updates.
Click on Update Now from the list of options to initiate the update process.
Microsoft will immediately start searching for updates; if updates are found, they’re downloaded and installed automatically.
Once the updates are installed, close the MS Access app and restart it to see if the error is fixed.
3. Scan for viruses
Press the Windows key, type in Windows Security, and hit Enter.
In the next window, click on Virus & Threat Protection, and click Scan Options under the Current Threats option.
Select Full Scan and click the Scan Now button to initiate the virus scan.
Wait for the scan to complete, restart your PC and check if the error is fixed.
Windows errors can usually be traced to the presence of viruses or malware; running a full scan with a dedicated antivirus tool can help fix errors with Microsoft Access.
Press the Windows key, type in CMD, right-click on the displayed result, and select Run as Administrator.
Click Yes to grant the app administrative access in the User Account Control window.
Once the command prompt opens, typethe following, and hit Enter: sfc /scannow
Wait till the scan is complete, and restart your PC to check if the error persists.
An SFC scan helps to identify and repair corrupt system files; if the Microsoft Access Error 7731 is a result of corrupt files, an SFC scan will fix it.
The Microsoft Access Error 7731 prevents you from accessing the MS Access app, so resolving it is compulsory; if you’ve successfully resolved the error, please comment below which solutions fixed the error.
The 0xc0000102 error had been reported by Windows users as it is often encountered while booting your PC or launching an application.
If you’re experiencing the 0xc0000102 error while booting up your PC or launching an application, this article will provide the best ways to fix the error on Windows.
What causes the 0xc0000102 error?
Here are some of the most common causes of the 0xc0000102 error:
Insufficient Memory – Too many opened background apps can lead to insufficient memory; the 0xc0000102 can pop up if you attempt to launch applications with limited memory or RAM.
Corrupt System Files – Some specific system files affect the startup process; if these files are corrupted, you’ll run into bootup errors like the 0xc0000102.
Corrupt BCD Data – If you encounter the 0xc0000102 error while booting up Windows, your PC’s BCD data may be corrupt.
Admin Restrictions on MMC Apps – If you triggered the 0xc0000102 error while attempting to launch an MMC app, your local administrator likely prohibits this type of action, thus leading to the error.
How can I fix error 0xc0000102 on Windows?
Before we proceed with more advanced solutions, here are a couple of quick fixes you can attempt:
Restart your PC.
Close background applications.
Update Windows.
Contact your admin to check if a restriction policy causes the error.
If the error persists after applying the above fixes, here are advanced solutions you can attempt:
1. Run the System File Checker
Press the Windows key, type in CMD, right-click on the displayed result, and select Run as Administrator.
Click Yes to grant the app administrative access in the User Account Control window.
Once the command prompt opens, type the following, and hit Enter: sfc /scannow
Wait till the scan is complete, and restart your PC to check if the error persists.
Corrupt system files are one of the common causes of the 0xc0000102 error; running an SFC scan identifies and repairs corrupt files; this can help fix the error.
On the other hand, you can actually utilize a proficient system repair tool that will fully diagnose your Windows PC and repair damaged system files.
2. Reinstall the newly installed apps or programs
Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
Click Apps in the Settings window, and select Installed Apps.
In the next window, scroll through the list of applications to locate the app, click on it and select Uninstall.
Click Uninstall again in the popup to confirm the uninstallation, and close the Settings app.
Visit the Microsoft Store or the official developer’s website to download the Program, and run the installer to complete the installation.
Launch the program and check if the error is fixed.
If the 0xc0000102 error is triggered when you launch an app, reinstalling the app would restore it to its default state, this can help resolve the error.
3. Perform a System Restore
Left-click the Start menu, type restore and click Create a restore point.
Select System Properties and choose System Restore button.
In the Restore Files and Settings box, click Next.
In the next window, select the Restore Point to which you wish to restore your PC, and click Next.
Then, click Finish to complete the system restore.
This can trigger the Windows errors after a change in the PC’s configuration; if you’ve made recent changes that triggered the error, you can fix it by running a system restore.
It’s also advisable to back up your PC before running a system restore because you’ll lose files and applications during a restore.
Press the Windows key, type cmd, right-click the displayed option, and select Run as Administrator.
Click Yes in the User Account Control window to grant administrative privileges.
Type the following in the command prompt, and hit Enter: chkdsk /r or chkdsk /f /r
Wait till the repair is complete and close the command prompt.
If your hard drive is corrupted, it can lead to bootup errors in Windows; running the chkdsk command scans and repairs irregularities on your hard drive to help fix the 0xc0000102 error.
The 0xc0000102 error is often triggered while booting up your PC or attempting to launch an app; whatever the case, applying the steps in this article should fix the error.
While attempting to view content on specific sites, you might encounter a DRM error on Google Chrome. This technology restricts actions you can take on the Site and is usually common among streaming platforms.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the 7 steps needed to enable DRM on Google Chrome to allow you to play DRM-protected content on all sites.
What does it mean to enable DRM?
Enable DRM (Digital Rights Management) means that digital content providers can control how users access their content. With the feature enabled, content providers can limit how users can copy, share, or distribute their content.
With this in place, their intellectual property remains protected, preventing it from being shared without authorization.
How can I enable DRM on Google Chrome?
The following are the steps to enable DRM on Google Chrome:
Press the Windows key, type Google Chrome in the search bar, and hit Enter to open the browser.
In the Chrome window, type the following and hit Enter to navigate to the settings window: Chrome://settings
Then, click Security and Privacy on the left pane in the Settings window, and select Site Settings.
Now, scroll down to locate the Additional Content Settings button, and click on it to expand the selection.
Further, click on Protected Content IDs and locate the Default Behavior section.
Under the Default Behavior section, click the checkbox next to Site can play protected content to enable DRM on Chrome.
Revisit the page triggering the protected site’s error and reload it to check if the error is fixed.
Once the feature is enabled, you should be able to access the content that was previously protected.
Are you wondering what Duet Display is on Windows 11? While using your PC, you might notice the feature. It’s been reported by a couple of users, and it’s got them worried because the feature didn’t come preloaded with Windows but just appeared suddenly.
In this article, we’ll briefly discuss what Duet Display is, why it was installed on your PC, and steps to help you remove the feature from your PC.
What is Duet Display?
Duet Display is an app that allows Windows users to mirror their desktop screen onto their iPads or iPhones. It allows you to utilize your mobile devices as a second monitor.
Why did Duet Display auto-install on my PC?
There are a couple of reasons why Duet Display was installed automatically on your PC; here are some of the most common causes:
Third-party App – Some third-party applications include Duet Display as an optional feature while installing the app; if you install such software, Duet Display will be installed automatically.
Virus or Malware – Sometimes, the Duet Display feature can be used by hackers to mirror your screen to a remote desktop to spy on things like your password, credit card details, and more.
Application Update – If you noticed the Duet Display auto-install on your PC after updating an app or software, the developer likely included the feature to increase the app’s functionality.
How do I remove the Duet Display from my PC?
1. Delete the Duet app from Windows Settings
Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
In the Settings window, click on Apps and select Installed Apps.
Then, locate the Duet app, click the options icon, and click Uninstall button.
Then, select Uninstall again to confirm the uninstallation.
Wait till the uninstallation process is complete, and close the Settings app.
Check your PC to see if the Duet Display feature is still functional.
This is one of the safest ways to delete and remove the app folders of the Duet app. Simply follow the steps outlined above.
2. Remove it from the Control Panel
Press the Windows key, type Control Panel and hit Enter.
In the Control Panel window, click on Programs, and select Programs and Features.
Scroll through the list of installed applications to locate the Duet Display app, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the uninstallation process, and close the Control Panel once it’s complete.
So if you have wondered what Duet Diplay is on Windows 11, on the surface, it sounds like a pretty neat feature, but if you didn’t consent to install the app, it’s advisable to delete it instantly to avoid losing your privacy to hackers.
With the steps listed in this guide, you should be able to remove the Duet Display from your PC
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