0xc184c00f Error Code: How to Fix This GeForce Issue

Posted on by Claire Moraa

The GeForce Now app by Nvidia is a one-stop hub for most gamers who want to be connected to game stores and stream them. What’s not so good is getting the error 0xc184c00f when you want to play a game.

Reports from community forums indicate that you cannot launch a game, and the message There was a problem starting the session is displayed on your screen. We’ve compiled some solutions which should help you address this error below.

Why does my GeForce say there was a problem starting your session?

Sometimes, GeForce Experience fails to detect games hence bringing up error codes. Error code 0xc184c00f on GeForce can be caused by several reasons, including:

  • Excessive background programs – The problem might be caused by other applications using your computer’s resources simultaneously while you’re playing games.
  • Date and time settings – Some games and apps are sensitive to changes in the date and time. You won’t be able to launch if your Windows date and time settings are not in sync.
  • Unsupported hardware/software – If you use an unsupported operating system, graphics card or monitor, GeForce Now will not work correctly. 
  • Insufficient RAM – Some games require more RAM than others, so you must ensure your computer has enough RAM to run the game.
  • Outdated GeForce app – If your GeForce Now app is not the latest version, there may be software conflicts with the game you’re trying to launch, as it may not be optimized for older versions.
  • Pirated game – If you have a pirated version of the game, then you may face this error. 
  • Outdated drivers – If your graphics card is not up-to-date, you may encounter the error 0xc184c00f because games consider your GPU unsupported.

How do I fix GeForce error 0xc184c00f?

Some of the basic workarounds that users tried to fix this error include:

1. Check GeForce Now server status

  1. Go to the GeForce Now Server Status website.Under Status Geforce 0xc0f1103f
  2. Check the current status of the servers.
  3. If down, wait for a while and try again.

2. Restart NVIDIA services

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and click OK to open Services.Services Run Command
  3. Locate all the services related to NVIDIA. Right-click on each service and click Restart.Restart NVIDIA service 0xc0f1103f
  4. Now close the Services app.

The GeForce Now app may be unresponsive because the NVIDIA services has either stopped or crashed. Restarting it could fix the 0xc184c00f error.

3. Update GeForce drivers

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open Device Manager. Device Manager RUN COMMAND
  3. Click Display adapters to expand it.
  4. Right-click GeForce Now and click Update driver.Graphics Driver update 0xc0f1103f
  5. Click Search automatically for drivers.Update driver 2
  6. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

To ensure you’re getting the right drivers, using an advanced driver updater utility is safer. Outbyte Driver Updater will scan for malfunctioned or outdated drivers and replace them with the correct ones.

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4. Reinstall all drivers and GeForce Now

  1. Navigate to your browser and download and extract DDU and start it.start
  2. Use the Safe mode from the launch options and recommended settings to remove the current Nvidia driver and GeForce Now.
  3. Now, click the Clean and restart button and wait for the process to complete.clean nvidia geforce experience something went wrong
  4. Finally, download and install the latest driver and stable version of GeForce Now.

5. Reinstall the GeForce app 

As a last resort, you can uninstall and reinstall the GeForce Now application. Sometimes, it may have become corrupt and needs a refresh.

Don’t forget to remove any software leftovers to ensure the app doesn’t use the same corrupt files during installation.

Other users who were unsatisfied with the resolutions opted to contact NVIDIA support. Sometimes, such errors are isolated; only the support team can address them once you provide the details.

If it takes too long, you can stay engaged by trying one of our offline PC games.

If you feel we may have missed a worthy solution for this error, let us know in the comment section below.

Trying to install KB5027215 may cause problems on your PC

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

By now, you surely know that Microsoft has released the monthly batch of security updates, also known as Patch Tuesday.

The Redmond-based tech giant has managed to address 69 vulnerabilities (CVE) during this month’s security update release.

However, as always, updates that are meant to fix certain problems sometimes end up breaking more than they actually fix.

It seems that the software launched for Windows 10 users is doing just that, so we’re going to take a closer look at the situation.

Be careful before installing this update to your device

Earlier this week, Microsoft released June 2023 Patch Tuesday update for Windows 10 and 11 users, as well as for obsolete versions of the OS.

Distributed as KB5027215, the update addressed security issues with no specific details about the changes or improvements.

That being said, it seems the update may have brought over a bug causing systems to install the patch slower than usual.

According to user reports on Reddit, KB5027215 is taking more than half an hour to install for some users, with clean-up process post-update taking most of the time.

This same issue has been reported by multiple users and is happening when trying to install the cumulative update along with Microsoft .NET updates.

Users affected by this issue are saying:

Only unusual thing that I noticed which others might have experienced is the long “cleaning up” process post-update/pre-login on the reboot. That happens if you reboot for the cumulative update and the NET update at the same time.

Know that the tech giant is yet to acknowledge the issue or share any information about the existence of this bug or any solutions.

For the time being, there is no workaround to fix the problem and you should be prepared for a long wait time if you plan to go ahead and install the update.

Keep in mind that turning off your system during the update is not a wise option and can harm your device. You should let the update install completely, even if it takes much longer than usual.

Besides longer installation times, users have also reported issues installing the update, with some saying that the update did not install after the PC rebooted.

Furthermore, on Feedback Hub, users have reported getting 0x80073701 error when trying to install the latest cumulative update.

If you haven’t upgraded and are still using Windows 10, but don’t want to install the new update then it might be a good idea to pause updates on the system.

Have you also noticed such issues after installing KB5027215? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.

Text interview scams: how to verify if a job is real

Posted on by Flavius Floare

In our age, scammers are everywhere, especially on the Internet, particularly when it comes to job-hunting. As tech giants are laying off more and more people, this kind of scam that targets the newly unemployed individual is on the rise.

Even more, according to the Los Angeles Times, fake job scams are skyrocketing online, and they’re getting even better to detect. So, if you’re currently looking for a job, especially in IT, but in other fields as well, be aware of it.

You can always use these tools when it comes to cybersecurity. But you should also be aware of any suspicious texts that you come across. This Reddit user, for example, received a scam text from a so-called ‘interviewer’ asking them to download Microsoft Teams for a text chat-based interview.

I love scammers first thing in the morning
byu/Impressive-Ad-7217 inscambait

A lot of users said that they receive these texts on a monthly basis, sometimes even 2 or 3 times a month. The variations might be different, but they all end up with the interviewer asking you to download Microsoft Teams.

So what can you do if it happens?

Text interviews scam: how can you verify if a job is real

There isn’t a proper direct way to find out if a job is real or not, because if you try to ask the interviewer if the job is real, the scammer will always say it’s real.

But you should consider the following points.

  1. Are you currently looking for a job? If yes, to how many have you applied recently, in the last 2 weeks, and which industries do you prefer?
  2. What’s your method of applying? Have you applied to jobs on LinkedIn?
  3. Is your phone number listed on your CV?
  4. Do you keep track of your applications?
  5. Do you verify the information before applying?

These are some questions that you must answer, especially when you’re receiving suspicious texts from interviewers.

To verify if a job is real, usually, the interviewer will call you. They will almost never text you, and if they do, then it’s through e-mail.text interview scams

Secondly, an interviewer will usually schedule a video call with you, or a physical meeting, depending on the job. That’s required because it’s an essential part of the HR recruiting process.

Thirdly, some companies conduct interviews on Microsoft Teams, Skype, or any other similar app, but up until that moment, usually you need to exchange an oral conversation with an HR recruiter, at least.

Depending on the position, you’ll be required to give a test, but usually, you’ll get the details on your e-mail, not your phone.

And finally, do your due diligence. If there is a name and a company mentioned in the text, look them up online, on LinkedIn, then look up for the company.

If you’re not sure, call the company’s HR department, and tell them all about the text and offer that you received. And ask them to confirm the texts, or not. Usually, this is the moment where you’ll realize something doesn’t add up.

The last thing that you can do, is to propose them a video call. This will usually confirm if they are scammers or not.

If you have experienced it, let us know in the comments section below.

HP Laptop Won’t Turn On? 3 Quick Ways to Fix It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

When your HP laptop won’t turn on, it is not only annoying but also a sign that there is a problem with the hardware. Sometimes, it won’t turn on unless a charger is plugged in. Some PC models have specific workarounds, but still, there are universal solutions that apply to all. In this article, we shall focus on the HP model and how to power up your laptop if it won’t start.

What can I do if my HP laptop won’t turn on?

A few basic checks that could help you out of this power situation include:

  • Ensure the power cable is plugged into an electrical outlet that works properly.
  • Remove all external devices, such as USB peripherals and external hard drives. 
  • Examine your laptop for any physical damage in its hardware parts, like the motherboard or RAM.
  • Check if there is any loose connection between the charger and charging port and if there is any dust in these ports which might be preventing the charging process from going smoothly.
  • Make sure that no software applications are running in the background on your computer.
  • Try uninstalling any recently installed software.
  • Switch out your laptop battery if you have another one available.
  • Try powering your laptop without the battery.
  • Remove all RAM sticks from their slots and place them back in again, ensuring they’re properly seated.
  • Check your laptop’s temperature.
  • Attempt to charge your laptop without a charger if possible.

1. Perform a hardware component test

  1. Press the power button for five seconds.
  2. Try to start up the laptop while pressing the Esc button repeatedly until the menu shows up.
  3. Press F2 when the UEFI menu shows up.
  4. Click on System Tests, and then click Extensive Test.
  5. Now wait for the results to find out if there’s anything wrong with your laptop.

2. Try booting into Safe Mode

  1. Plug in or insert a bootable drive (USB flash stick or DVD) and restart your PC in Safe Mode.
  2. Access the boot menu by pressing the F8 key during Restart (this may differ depending on the make).
  3. Using the arrow keys, navigate to the Boot section and change the boot order to start with the bootable drive.
    pc won't boot after bios update
  4. The loading process of the installation file should commence.
  5. Select your preferences and hit the Next button.
  6. Select Repair your computer from the bottom left corner in the following dialog box.
    pc won't boot after bios update
  7. Open Troubleshoot and choose Advanced Options.
    pc won't boot after bios update
  8. Choose Startup Settings and select Restart.
    pc won't boot after bios update
  9. Once your laptop restarts, press F4, F5, or F6 to boot in various Safe Mode options.
  10. When/if the system boots, you can restart your laptop and start the system in a standard manner.

3. Perform a hard reset

  1. Start by removing all connected peripherals from your HP laptop.
  2. Disconnect the battery and remove the charger.
  3. Press and hold the power button for at least 15 to 20 seconds.
  4. Replace the battery and connect the charger without the peripherals.
  5. Now, press the Power button and hold it again for up to 20 seconds or until it boots up.
  6. If it powers up, follow the on-screen prompts to start your HP laptop normally.

Why is my laptop not starting after pressing the power button?

Here are some of the possible reasons why your HP laptop won’t start after pressing the power button:

  • Power supply – If your laptop won’t turn on after a power outage, it could be a dead battery, power supply, or charger issue.
  • Hardware failure – If you are using an old laptop, then chances are that it has reached its end of life and will need replacing with something newer. However, if you are using a relatively new laptop, there might be something wrong with one of the hardware components.
  • Software issues – When you install some programs, they can cause conflicts with your laptop which is another reason your laptop’s power button may not respond properly.
  • Corrupted BIOS – If you have updated your BIOS and your PC won’t turn on, then there is a chance that you have corrupted it. 
  • Virus infection – One of the most common causes for a laptop to stop booting up is a virus attack especially if you don’t have antivirus software. 
  • Your charger is broken – If your laptop won’t turn on even when plugged in, it’s likely that something is wrong with your charger or its connection point on your PC.
  • Overheating – Sometimes, laptops stop working properly due to overheating and start showing weird symptoms like this one, where they do not start after pressing the power button.

If all of these steps have been completed and your HP laptop still won’t turn on, it is safe to say that the worst may have come to pass. Your laptop may be dead. It may have caught you unaware, but if you need a budget laptop, we have a commendable list you can choose from.

However, before you give up on your old laptop or can’t figure out how to repair it yourself, you should take it to a professional.

Aside from booting issues, you may also encounter a power button lockout message or an HP black screen, but we’ve already answered how to get rid of it in our detailed article.

For any additional thoughts and suggestions, leave us a comment down below.

5 Ways to Fix ROG Gaming Center if There’s no Fan Control

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The ROG Gaming Center app has many features that allow users to customize and monitor gaming activities. The ROG Gaming Center’s no-fan control is an issue that our readers complain about.

Many factors may affect the fan control in the app, resulting in issues like ROG Gaming Center fan not working or ROG Gaming Center fan control missing.

Nonetheless, fixing the missing fan control issue isn’t difficult and can be done by tweaking some settings in your system.

Does the Asus ROG have a fan?

Asus ROG has a fan that helps optimize system performance by cooling down the CPU. However, it offers optimized performance with a quieter operation for static pressure and airflow cooling applications. Also, it has a longer life span.

What causes fan control issues on ROG?

  • Outdated drivers on your PC – When your drivers are not up-to-date, they can affect how the ROG Gaming Center app works. Likewise, ROG manages devices such as graphics cards and peripherals (mouse, keyboard, etc.) on your computer, so it can malfunction if they are not working correctly.
  • Interference with other apps – Apps like antivirus and the built-in Windows Defender Firewall can interfere with the abilities of the ROG Gaming Center app, causing the fan control not to work.
  • An outdated operating system – Running an outdated operating system on your computer can cause the fan control on ROG to stop working or miss. Also, the outdated operating system may not be compatible with the version of ROG Gaming Center on your PC.

Now that we know the reasons for this issue, let’s fix it quickly.

How do I fix the ROG Gaming Center with no fan control?

1. Update your operating system

  1. Click on the Start button.
  2. Select the Settings option.
  3. Click on Windows Update and select Check for updates.

Windows will automatically search and download updates if there are any available. Keeping your PC updated will help fix bugs that may affect its functionality and improve its performance.

2. Update your drivers

  1. Press Windows + R keys on your keyboard to open the Run dialogue box.
  2. Type devmgmt.msc in the text space, then click the OK button to open the Device Manager.
  3. Then click the Display adapter and expand it.
  4. Right-click on the entries and select the Uninstall devices option.
  5. Click the Action tab and select the Scan for hardware changes option. (Your PC will scan for uninstalled drivers and automatically install the latest versions)

Uninstalling the device will delete the faulty drivers and files responsible for issues with the ROG Gaming Center fan control.

3. Uninstall Antivirus apps on the PC

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on Apps and select the Apps & Features option from the left menu pane to prompt the list of installed apps on your computer.
  3. Scroll through the apps and select the antivirus app, right-click on it and select the Uninstall option.

4. Run ROG Gaming Center as an Administrator

  1. Open the File location of the ROG Gaming Center with this path: C:\Program Files (x86)\ROG Gaming Center
  2. Right-click on the executable file and choose Properties.
  3. Click the Compatibility tab and check the box next to Run this program as an administrator.
  4. Then click OK and relaunch the ROG Gaming Center to test whether it runs smoothly.

5. Uninstall and reinstall ROG Gaming Center

  1. Press the Window + I keys to open the Settings app.
  2. Select Apps and click on Apps & Features.
  3. Locate ROG Gaming Center in the list of installed applications on your PC and right-click on it.
  4. Select Uninstall and click OK to confirm the action.
  5. Download the ROG Gaming Center on your PC and double-click on the .exe file. (Follow the prompts to complete the installation)

Restart your computer and check if the Asus ROG Gaming Center fan control is working.

Most gaming PCs are also efficient for other purposes such as work and schooling. So, ROG is not only for gaming.

Users may be interested in the best fans available in the market to replace the ones installed on their devices. Also, you can check our guide on how to fix GPU when the fan spins and then stop repeatedly on your PC.

Check out KB5027292 and all it brings to the Release Preview Channel

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

After looking at KB5027301 and the changes it brings to the Windows 11 Insider Beta Channel, it’s time to check out what’s happening on the Release Preview Channel.

In fact, if you were unaware, Microsoft has just released Build 22000.2121 (KB5027292), so you definitely have to check out the changelog.

However, before we go into these changes and improvements, we will remind you that the June 2023 Patch Tuesday rollout was just days ago.

You might like to know that, out of the new fixes released for the 69 CVEs released, six are rated Critical, 62 are rated Important, and one is rated Moderate in severity.

What should I look for when I install KB5027292?

Just as we mentioned above, Microsoft has dropped a new Release Preview build for the original version of Windows 11 for members of the Insider program.

Know that the new build number is 22000.2121 (KB5027292), and it includes some features and improvements to Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

Furthermore, this update also has improvements for several simplified Chinese fonts and quite a few bug fixes.

Let’s also mention the fact that the update addresses an issue that affects Microsoft Intune push notifications. The issue stops devices that have less than 3.5 GB of RAM from getting them.

There was also an issue that affects certain applications that use IDBObjectStore, but you can say goodbye to that as well. As an FYI, they do not work in Microsoft Edge and IE mode.

Changes and improvements

  • This update adds many new features and improvements to Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. For more information, see Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
  • This update improves several simplified Chinese fonts and the Microsoft Pinyin Input Method Editor (IME) to support GB18030-2022. You can enter and display characters from conformance level 1 or 2 using the additions to Microsoft Yahei, Simsun, and Dengxian. This update now supports Unicode Extensions E and F in the Simsun Ext-B font. This meets the requirements for level 3.
  • This update affects the Default Terminal settings. It adds Let Windows Decide as a default option.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects Narrator. The issue stops Narrator from retaining your scan mode when you switch between browsers.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects Microsoft Intune push notifications. The issue stops devices that have less than 3.5 GB of RAM from getting them.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects the on-screen keyboard. The issue stops it from opening after you lock the machine.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects Narrator. It reads the wrong state when you cancel the selection of an option button you have selected.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects a scheduled monthly task. It might not run on time if the next occurrence happens when daylight savings time occurs.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects certain applications that use IDBObjectStore. They do not work in Microsoft Edge and IE mode.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects all the registry settings under the Policies paths. They might be deleted. This occurs when you do not rename the local temporary user policy file during Group Policy processing.
  • This update affects the Desktop Window Manager (DWM). It improves its reliability.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects .msi files. A minor update is not installed. This occurs when you use the EnterpriseDesktopAppManagement configuration service provider (CSP) to distribute the .msi file.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects msftconnecttext.net. It gets excessive HTTP traffic.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects the Spooler service. It stops working. This issue occurs when you print using a certain workspace.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects the Network Protector for BitLocker. It will not resume after it has been suspended.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects a tib.sys driver. It does not load. This occurs when HyperVisor-protected Code Integrity (HVCI) is enabled.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects TextInputHost.exe. It stops working.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365 users. You might not see the right location for a Remote Desktop session in your virtual machine or Cloud PC.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders. You can now set and maintain the correct default permissions for this directory path. When the permissions are wrong, Start menu, search, and Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) authentication fails.
  • This update addresses an issue that affects those who enable the Smart Card is Required for Interactive Logon account option. When RC4 is disabled, you cannot authenticate to Remote Desktop Services farms. The error message is, “An authentication e

What can I do if I can’t install Windows 11 KB5027292?

  1. Press Win+ I to access Settings.
  2. Select the System category and click on Troubleshoot.w11 troubleshoot
  3. Press the Other troubleshooters button.other troubleshooters windows 11
  4. Press the Run button next to Windows Update.windows update troubleshooter

Be sure to report any other issues you might come across, in order for Microsoft to address and improve the overall OS experience for us all.

This is everything you can expect if you are a Windows 11 Release Preview Channel Insider. Leave a comment below if you found any issues since installing this build.

KB5027301 simplifies Notification controls to the Beta Channel

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

It’s time to talk about Windows 11 again, so if you are an enthusiast, you definitely came to the right place for some news.

Why? Well, because Microsoft has just released builds 22621.1900 and Build 22631.1900 (KB5027301) to the Beta Channel for Windows 11 Insiders.

Before we dive into it though, we would like to remind you that the Redmond tech giant recently released security updates for all operating systems through Patch Tuesday.

A total of 69 vulnerabilities were found and dealt with, so you might want to check it out and stay on top of things.

Check out what’s new on the Windows 11 Beta Channel

If you are a Windows 11 Beta Channel insider, that means that today you received Preview Builds 22621.1900 and 22631.1900 to play with.

There isn’t a lot to see here, but there are a couple of changes that Microsoft mentioned as a part of this recent release.

Please remember that Insiders who were previously on Build 22624 will automatically get moved to Build 22631 via an enablement package.

This package artificially increments the build number for the update with new features getting rolled out and turned on to make it easier to differentiate from devices with the update with features off by default.

Changes and improvements

[General]
  • To minimize distractions from notification toasts, we now detect if the user is interacting with toasts or not and provide a suggestion to turn the toast banners off for such apps. This will only stop the banners from appearing, and you can still find the toasts in the notification center. This feature is beginning to roll out, so not all Insiders in the Beta Channel will see it right away.
Suggestions to turn the toast banners.
[Networking]
  • Passpoint Wi-Fi networks will now support enhanced connection performance and will display a URL in Quick Settings to provide information to users about the venue or event.

That’s pretty much everything we’re looking at. As we’ve said, this is one of the smallest Beta Channel updates we received in a while.

What can I do if I can’t install Windows 11 KB5027301?

  1. Press Win+ I to access Settings.
  2. Select the System category and click on Troubleshoot.w11 troubleshoot
  3. Press the Other troubleshooters button.other troubleshooters windows 11
  4. Press the Run button next to Windows Update.windows update troubleshooter

Make sure to report any other issues you might come across, in order for Microsoft to address and improve the overall OS experience for us all.

This is everything you can expect if you are a Windows 11 Beta Channel Insider. Leave a comment below if you found any issues since installing this build.

5 Ways to Fix ROG Gaming Center when It Closes Automatically

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The Republic of Gamers (ROG) Gaming Center is a software that enables gamers to customize and personalize their games. Many gamers download software to create an enjoyable gaming experience. However, our readers complain about issues like the ROG Gaming Center closing automatically.

Moreover, users can experience difficulties like the ROG Gaming Center not working, or ROG Gaming Center keeps crashing due to many factors.

This article will take you through the cause of the issue and how you can get it fixed in a few minutes.

Why does the ROG Gaming Center closes automatically?

Here are some of the main reasons for this problem:

  • Outdated drivers on the PC – ROG Gaming Center manages devices related to gaming on the computer and outdated drivers, especially the one for the graphics card can cause issues.
  • Windows Defender Firewall interference – The ROG Gaming Center may not work correctly if the Firewall blocks it.
  • Issues with the ROG Gaming Center app – The app may crash or close automatically if it is corrupt or not working correctly.

Now that we know why this happens, let’s fix the problem using the solutions below.

What can I do if the ROG Gaming Center crashes or closes automatically?

1. Set Administrator permission

  1. Open the File location of the ROG Gaming Center with this path: C:\Program Files (x86)\ROG Gaming Center
  2. Right-click on the executable file and choose Properties.
  3. Click the Compatibility tab and check the box next to Run this program as an administrator.
  4. Then click OK and relaunch the ROG Gaming Center to test whether it runs smoothly.

Running the app as an administrator allows it to access system resources and prevent crashing or closing abruptly.

2. Update your drivers

  1. Press Windows + R keys on your keyboard to prompt the Run dialogue box.
  2. Type devmgmt.msc in the text space and click the OK button to open the Device Manager.
  3. In the Device Manager, select Display adapters.
  4. Right-click on the entries and select the Update drivers option.
  5. In the pop-up window, select Search automatically for drivers.

If this didn’t bring any improvement, you should use a third-party tool that will automatically search for outdated drivers and update them.

3. Restart your computer

  1. Click on Start.
  2. Select Power from the options.
  3. Select Restart and click on OK to restart the computer.

Restarting the computer will fix startup errors causing ROG Gaming Center not to show anything.

4. Disable Windows Defender Firewall

  1. Click on Start and type Windows Security in the search space.
  2. Select and launch Windows Security from the search results.
  3. Click Virus & threat protection on the Windows Security tab.
  4. Then select Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
  5. Toggle off Real-time protection.

Restart the computer and check if the ROG Gaming Center keeps closing automatically.

5. Uninstall and reinstall ROG Gaming Center

  1. Press the Window + I keys to open the Settings app.
  2. Select Apps and click on Apps & Features.
  3. Locate ROG Gaming Center in the list of installed applications on your PC and right-click on it.
  4. Then select Uninstall and click OK to confirm the action.
  5. Download the ROG Gaming Center on your PC and double-click on the .exe file. (Follow the prompts to complete the installation)

The ROG (Republic of Gamers) Gaming Center offers players easy access and a management environment for their games. It helps keep your games updated and also helps you monitor system components.

Likewise, it includes many features such as game streaming, voice chat, and screenshot capture.

Nonetheless, you may be interested in how to fix Smite if it’s not launching or responding on Steam. Also, we have a detailed guide on how to install Asus monitor drivers on your PC.

What is WUSA.exe & What is It Used For?

Posted on by Afam Onyimadu

The Windows operating system is robust and contains thousands of files and processes. It is impossible to know every one of them and their use. Readers have asked us about some of these files, especially WUSA.exe.

In this guide, we take an in-depth dive into understanding the executable, its function, and its use case.

What is WUSA.exe?

Updates for Windows operating systems are installed via the Windows executable file wusa.exe. Because it is a standalone installation, the Windows Update service is not necessary for it to operate.

As a result, it becomes a valuable tool for IT experts and power users who need to install updates on machines that lack internet connectivity or are operating in a disconnected environment.

You can install updates with the .msu file extension using WUSA.exe. Microsoft often releases these updates to Windows to address security flaws or introduce new features. Additionally, updates not accessible through Windows Update can be installed using wusa.exe.

IT specialists that need to install updates that are either not yet broadly accessible or are only available for particular Windows versions may also find this helpful.

WUSA.exe supports both interactive and non-interactive modes of use. It will present a user interface in interactive mode that lets the user choose whatever updates they wish to apply.

Wusa.exe may automatically install updates in non-interactive mode. Hence, IT experts who need to upgrade many PCs may find this handy.

What functions does WUSA perform?

Between the user and the Windows Update service, WUSA.exe acts as a gateway. Users may manually manage their installations and install updates, thanks to it. The utility performs several vital tasks, including:

  • Manual Installation – Instead of depending on the automated update option, users can use WUSA.exe to install Windows updates manually. This gives users more control over the update process, especially when installing specific updates or addressing update-related problems.
  • Silent Installation – System administrators who need to deliver updates across several workstations without user participation can use WUSA.exe’s capabilities for quiet or unattended deployments. They may do this by employing command-line options and save time and labor.
  • Update Removal – Installed Windows Updates may also be uninstalled more efficiently, thanks to WUSA.exe. WUSA.exe enables users to remove updates and return the system to a prior state when they clash or cause compatibility difficulties with certain applications.
  • Scripting and Automation – System administrators and experienced users can use WUSA.exe in scripting and automation scenarios. They may accelerate the update management procedure and incorporate it with other system maintenance chores by including it in batch files or scripts.

How do I run the WUSA command?

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type cmd and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt.
    wusa.exe
  3. Input wusa followed by your desired command-line parameters as indicated with the example below (Substitute C:\Path\to\WindowsUpdate.msu for the exact path and filename of the Windows Update package you wish to install).
    wusa C:\Path\to\WindowsUpdate.msu
    wusa.exe
  4. Lastly, you may include additional command-line parameters and hit Enter.

For cases where updates fail to install properly, you can learn how to fix WUSA install errors from a network share.

What command line parameters can I use with WUSA.exe?

There are several command-line parameters that WUSA.exe provides to manage the installation process. The updates that should be installed, the mode in which wusa.exe should be launched, and the log file that should be written may all be specified using these parameters.

  • /install – Provides the installation location for the Windows Update package (.msu) file.
  • /uninstall – Uninstalls a specific Windows Update package.
  • /quiet – Important for performing silent installations without displaying any user interface.
  • /norestart – Useful for preventing an automatic system restart after the update installation.
  • /promptrestart – Necessary for prompting the user to reboot the system after an update installation.

There you have it; all the important elements to know about WUSA.exe. While it offers great functionality, it may feel a bit complex for some users. Also, it is not a replacement for Windows Update.

Lastly, let us know if you have any further questions regarding this utility, and we will happily provide answers.

WD SES Device USB: Device Driver not Found [Fix]

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The WD SES Device USB driver is usually installed automatically by the OS when connecting a Western Digital external drive. However, the driver may not be installed correctly or missing, resulting in the WD SES Device USB: Device Driver not found error.

This guide will discuss how to resolve it. Alternatively, you can read our review of the best Western Digital external hard drives for your PC.

What causes WD SES Device USB driver not found?

Here are a few possible causes and solutions for this error:

  • Missing or outdated driver – A common cause is the missing or outdated driver for the WD SES device. The SES aids the communication between the computer and the drive’s enclosure. If the driver is missing or outdated, the system won’t recognize the device correctly.
  • Incompatible operating system – It can occur when the WD SES driver is incompatible with your operating system. Operating systems undergo updates that might introduce changes incompatible with the older driver version, causing the drive not mounting or malfunction.
  • Connection or hardware issues – The connection between the WD external drive and your computer can cause problems. Also, faulty USB cables, ports, or power supply problems can prevent the computer from recognizing the WD device and result in driver-related errors.

These causes may vary on different devices depending on the circumstances. Regardless, we’ll take you through some steps for resolving the error and getting the drive to work.

How can I fix WD SES device USB: device driver not found error?

Before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting steps, try the following preliminary checks:

  • Check USB connections – Ensure the USB cable is connected securely to the WD device and the computer. Try using a different USB port or cable to mitigate any potential issues.
  • Disconnect other USB devices – Disconnect any unnecessary USB devices from your computer to avoid conflicts and ensure sufficient power supply to the WD device.
  • Install WD Drive Utilities – Using the drive utility will help update and fix all issues with the problematic drive.
  • Try a different computer – Connect the WD device to a different computer to determine if the issue is specific to your computer or the device itself.

If the above steps can’t resolve the error, go ahead with the fixes outlined below:

1. Update the WD SES Device driver via WD Smartware VCD

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter to open Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Other devices entry and find WD SES USB Device. Right-click the WD SES USB Device and select Update driver from the drop-down menu.
  3. On the next screen, click on Browse my computer for driver software to allow you to select the update in File Explorer.
  4. Click Browse to choose the driver, then Next to start installing the driver.
  5. Locate and open the WD Smartware virtual CD drive in your File Explorer (WD Unlocker or WD Smartware), then double-click the Extras folder.
  6. Double-click the WD SES Device Driver installer file in the Extras folder to launch the installer.
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  8. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes.

The above steps will manually update the WD SES Device driver and resolve the driver not found error. You can read our article about ways to manually install drivers on Windows 11.

2. Copy the WD SES driver folder to Windows

  1. Press the Windows + E key to open File Explorer.
  2. Open the WD Smartware VCD virtual CD drive. (Labeled as WD Unlocker or WD Smartware)
  3. Find the Extras or WD SES Device Driver folder, right-click on it, and select Copy from the drop-down.
  4. Navigate to the following, right-click, and select Paste from the context menu: Windows\system32\drivers
  5. Restart your computer abs check if the error persists.

These steps will paste a copy of the WD SES device driver folder into the Windows and make it accessible.

3. Update via Optional Updates settings

  1. Left-click the Start button and click on Settings.
  2. Click on Windows Update and select Advanced options from the right pane.
  3. Then, select Optional Updates.
  4. In the new window, select other updates. Select the Western Digital drivers, then click on Download & install.

Some users have claimed this process is an alternative that worked for them.

You may be interested in our article about Windows 11 PC not recognizing the external hard drive and how to fix it.

Also, do not hesitate to read about what to do if the internal hard drive is not showing up on Windows 11.

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

Spoolsv.exe: What is it & What Does it do?

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Sometimes, malware can get into the system without notice by disguising it as a legitimate system file like spoolsv.exe. So, it is important to know whether the executable is genuine when you notice any issues. This guide will discuss this file and explore what it does

Also, you may be interested in our article about exe files deleting themselves on Windows 11 and some steps for fixing the problem.

What is spoolsv.exe?

Spoolsv.exe is a legitimate Windows system file responsible for managing the printing and spooling services on the Windows OS computer. The spoolsv part of the file name stands for spooler service, and the .exe extension indicates that it is an executable file.

Furthermore, the spooler service is an essential component of the Windows printing system. It handles print jobs by managing the print queue, sending print jobs to the printer or print server, and handling communication between the computer and the printing devices.

Is it safe to disable spoolsv.exe?

Generally, disabling this process is not recommended, as it is an integral part of the Windows printing system. Disabling it could result in issues with printing functionality on your computer.

However, like any other system file, malware can target and use this file as a disguise for malicious activities.

Furthermore, some malware may attempt to replace or modify the legitimate file to gain unauthorized access to a computer.

To determine if the spoolsv.exe file on your computer should be disabled, you can perform the following checks:

  • Location check – The legitimate file resides in the C:\Windows\System32 If you find it in any other directory, especially in temporary or user folders, it could be a sign of malware.
  • File properties – Following the above steps, right-click on the spoolsv.exe file and select Properties. In the Properties window, check the details such as the file description, company name, and digital signature. Microsoft digitally signs the genuine file.
  • File size – The legitimate file has a specific file size that can vary depending on the Windows version. You can compare your file size with the known sizes for your particular Windows version. If the file size significantly differs, it may indicate a potential issue.
  • System behavior – If you notice any unusual or suspicious activity, such as frequent crashes, high CPU or memory usage, or unexpected network traffic associated with the spoolsv.exe process, it could be malware.

Disabling the executable in any of the scenarios outlined above may be advisable and considered safe.

How can I disable or remove the spoolsv.exe?

1. Via the Services Manager

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box and type services.msc in the text bar, then press Enter to open Services.
  2. Scroll down and double-click the Print Spooler service on the list.
  3. Go to the Startup type tab and select Disabled from the drop-down menu.
  4. Click the Stop button, Apply, and then tap OK.

Stopping the Print Spooler prevents this file from running on your computer.

2. End task for spoolsv.exe

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager from the menu.
  2. Go to the Details tab. Select the spoolsv.exe from the list, right-click on it, then click End Task from the drop-down menu.
  3. Restart your PC.

Ending this process will disable its activities on your computer.

Check our article for more shortcuts to open Task Manager on your PC.

In conclusion, read our guide on ways to fix the Print Spooler service not running on Windows 11. Also, you can check what is Splwow64.exe and how to easily disable it.

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

Error Communicating With Plugin Service on ChatGPT [Fix]

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Plugins on ChatGPT extend its functionality, allowing it to interact with external services and provide extra features. However, users report an error message Error communicating with plugin service, indicating a problem with a software plugin on the app. Hence, this guide will discuss how to fix the issue.

Also, you can check our article about what to do if ChatGPT is stuck in verification on your device.

What causes the error communicating with the plugin service?

The error message occurs when the ChatGPT model and the underlying plugin service responsible for executing some tasks don’t communicate properly. However, some common causes include:

  • Network connectivity issues – If there are problems with the network connection between the ChatGPT model and the plugin service, it can result in communication errors. It could be due to network congestion, firewall restrictions, or other network configuration problems.
  • Plugin service unavailability – The plugin service might be experiencing issues or is temporarily down. In such cases, ChatGPT and the service cannot establish communication, resulting in the error.
  • Plugin service compatibility – If the plugin service is not compatible with the version of ChatGPT you are using, it can lead to communication errors.
  • Plugin service configuration – Incorrect configuration settings or misalignment between the plugin service and ChatGPT can cause communication errors.

The exact cause of this error can vary depending on the specific circumstances and setup. Regardless, we’ll take you through the basic steps for resolving the error.

How can I fix the error communicating with plugin service?

Before trying any advanced fixes, we recommend you observe the following preliminary checks:

  • Check your network connection – Power cycle your router or modem to ensure a stable and working network connection. Test other network-dependent services to verify if the error is specific to the plugin service, or a ChatGPT network error.
  • Refresh the page – Refreshing the page can resolve temporary communication issues. Refresh the page or restart your application that is running ChatGPT and attempt to use the plugin service again.
  • Verify plugin service availability – Check if the plugin service is operational and accessible. You can visit the service provider’s website or contact their support for any information regarding service status or known issues.
  • Contact support – If the issue persists, contact the support channels provided by the plugin service or the platform hosting ChatGPT. They can provide specific guidance and further assistance to help resolve the issue.

If you still can’t get around the ChatGPT plugin service error, proceed with the solutions below:

1. Uninstall and reinstall the ChatGPT plugin

  1. Go to OpenAI official site from your browser and log in to your account using your email and password.
  2. Click on the plugin button beneath the GPT mode toggle.
  3. Click on Plugin store.
  4. In the store, go to the Installed tab. Find the plugin you want to activate, and click the Uninstall button.
  5. Reload ChatGPT and install the plugin to see if it works correctly.

Reinstalling the plugin will resolve configuration issues and conflict with other plugins on the platform. Read our guide on what to do if ChatGPT is not working on your device.

2. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies

  1. Launch the Google Chrome browser on your PC, then click three dots to open the Menu. Navigate to More tools and select Clear browsing data.
  2. Choose a time range for the data to be cleared, then select All time to delete everything.
  3. Check the boxes for Cookies and other site data, Cached images & files, then click Clear data.
  4. Restart your browser and reload the ChatGPT interface to check if the error persists in ChatGPT.

Clearing your browser caches and cookies resolves conflicts or outdated information affecting the communication between ChatGPT and the plugin service.

Check our article about quick ways to clear the computer cache on your Windows PC.

In addition, you may be interested in our article about the steps for downloading the ChatGPT mobile app on your PC.

Also, read about what to do if you encounter The email you provided is not supported error message on ChatGPT.

RFCOMM Protocol TDI: What is it?

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

When it comes to Bluetooth, we turn on the feature, connect to the device, and have things up and running.

But, most remain unaware of what happens in the background and the required components. RFCOMM Protocol TDI is one we should know about.

You will find the protocol listed under Bluetooth in the Device Manager as an individual device. Many also ask whether disabling RFCOMM Protocol TDI poses any harm. Keep reading to find out the answers to all these questions and fixes for related errors.

What is RFCOMM Protocol TDI?

RFCOMM Protocol TDI, where TDI stands for Transport Driver Interface, ensures the deployment of the RFCOMM protocol. The protocol allows connections with up to 60 devices simultaneously. The device, in itself, provides the TDI transport driver.

And there are no services associated with or relying on the component, as per the information available on Microsoft’s official website. Quite frankly, regular users don’t need to figure out the intricacies of the component, and just a basic understanding should do.

Disabling RFCOMM Protocol TDI shouldn’t act as an impediment when connecting to devices or affect the core functioning of the adapter.

Though, for enhanced capabilities, we recommend keeping it enabled as long as the device or the associated driver doesn’t throw any errors. And even if it does, you can always rectify the problem rather than disabling the device or uninstalling the RFCOMM Protocol TDI driver.

How do I fix RFCOMM Protocol TDI driver issues?

Before we proceed to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick tricks to try:

  • Make sure the adapter is plugged in properly if you are using an external one.
  • Check for pending Windows updates and install any available ones.
  • Uninstall recent Windows updates, in case the RFCOMM Protocol TDI issue started appearing after updating the OS.

If none work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Reinstall the driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager
  2. Expand the Bluetooth entry.
  3. Now, right-click on Bluetooth Device (RFCOMM Protocol TDI), and select Uninstall device.uninstall device to fix RFCOMM Protocol TDI
  4. Click on Uninstall in the confirmation prompt.
  5. Once done, restart the computer, and Windows will automatically install the best driver.

Often when you are facing issues, particularly the Bluetooth Device RFCOMM Protocol TDI code 10 error, a quick fix is to reinstall the driver. It removes the corrupt driver and installs a fresh copy available on the PC.

2. Update the driver

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager from the list.
  2. Double-click the Bluetooth entry, right-click on Bluetooth Device (RFCOMM Protocol TDI), and select Update driver.update driver to fix RFCOMM Protocol TDI
  3. Choose Search automatically for drivers and let Windows identify and install the best one available locally.driver
  4. Finally, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

Running an outdated version of the RFCOMM Protocol TDI driver often leads to trouble, and it’s best that you update the driver.

Also, if Windows is unable to find a newer version, you could always head to the manufacturer’s website to install the driver manually.

All in all, the best alternative to update problematic drivers is to use a standalone PC driver manager. This software will scan and detect any driver, updating them accordingly in minutes.

3. Roll back driver update

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Device Manager in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.
  2. Locate the Bluetooth Device (RFCOMM Protocol TDI) entry, right-click on it, and select Properties.properties
  3. Go to the Drivers tab, and click on Roll Back Driver.roll back driver to fix RFCOMM Protocol TDI
  4. Choose a reason for the roll back and click on Yes to confirm.roll back
  5. Finally, restart the computer.

In case the problem appeared after you updated the RFCOMM Protocol TDI driver, uninstalling the latest version could fix things. And even if you didn’t manually do it, there’s a likelihood that a newer version was pushed through Windows Update.

4. Run the Bluetooth service

  1. Press Windows + S to open Run, type services.msc in the text field, and click OK.services.msc
  2. Locate the Bluetooth Support Service, right-click on it, and select Properties.properties
  3. Now, select Automatic from the Startup type dropdown menu, and click on Start if the service is not running.run service to fix RFCOMM Protocol TDI
  4. Next, click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

When having problems with Bluetooth connectivity, it’s imperative to verify that the Bluetooth Support Service is running and is configured to start automatically when you turn on the PC.

5. Perform a system restore

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Create a restore point, and click on the relevant search result.create a different restore pioint
  2. Click on System Restore.system restore to fix RFCOMM Protocol TDI
  3. Select the Choose a different restore point option, and click Next.different point
  4. Now, pick another restore point from the list, one created before the error first appeared, and click Next.pick restore point
  5. Finally, verify the details, and click Finish to start the restore process.

If you found that Bluetooth Device (RFCOMM Protocol TDI) has a driver problem and none of the presented solutions helped, a system restore is often a quick way to get things up and running. It will revert recent changes on the PC, though you could find some apps missing after the restore.

And before you leave, do check some quick tips to make Windows faster than ever.

For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.

VS code looks blurry on Windows 11? Fix it in 4 steps

Posted on by Flavius Floare

If you’re a software developer using Visual Studio on Windows 11 you might have noticed this issue: your code looks blurry on this operating system, and you have no idea why.

Rest assured, you’re not the only one. A lot of users have been dealing with this issue, and this Reddit thread proves it.

Why is VS Code so blurry? It’s almost impossible to use it. Running Windows 11 .
byu/thexdroid invscode

It seems that this issue on PCs with NVIDIA video cards, and it happens when a special feature in the NVIDIA Control Center is on. So the only way to fix is to disable the feature, and the blurry code should not be blurry anymore.

You should know that sometimes, NVIDIA video cards run into all sorts of problems, especially on Windows 11, but that’s because Windows 11 might not be stable due to a lack of updates.

If that’s the case, then you should always keep your Windows 11 updated with the latest features. It’s also very important to keep your video card updated with the latest features as well. Make sure your video drivers are up to date and don’t skip any updates.

You can easily fix this issue in 4 steps, and if you’re dealing with VS blurry code on your screen, you should be able to code all good, if you follow the steps.

Here’s how to fix the VS blurry code on Windows 11

  1. Right-click on your Desktop, and click NVIDIA Control Panel.vs code blurry windows 11
  2. Once you’re there, go to the Manage 3D settings pane.
  3. Click on the Restore button.
  4. Select Antialiasing FXAA and turn it off.

You should then restart your computer, and open your Visual Studio. By now, the code should not be blurry anymore and you can resume your work on your coding projects.

This is how you fix the VS blurry code issue on Windows 11.

Have you experienced this bug? Be sure to let us know your experience in the comments section below.

Why is the Call of Duty update so big? [Download bug]

Posted on by Flavius Floare

A lot of users have been complaining that the Call of Duty updates are too big for their systems. In a Reddit thread, a lot of users said that tried to download the latest Call of Duty updates only to find themselves with a much larger file on their shoulders. And computers.

Is anyone else’s update on Xbox this monstrously big?
byu/YourCreepyGramps inModernWarfareII

Call of Duty updates are known for being big files, but this time, even veteran players were taken by surprise. It seems that instead of the regular 32GB, which is a lot, the download ended up being around 136 GB, which is way too much for their storage drives.

Needless to say, a lot of users were and still are confused about it. Some of them even got a 140 GB download, so it is definitely a bug. But why does it happen?

Why is the Call of Duty update so big?

Many users tried to find an answer and some of them even know why, It’s a download bug, after all. But it ends up affecting the systems, and their capacity to store any more files.

It’s a bug that happens. I’ve had it do that before something messes up, and it decides it needs to redownload the entire game. It’s happened to me on multiple games, I think something gets corrupt and that’s how it fixes it.

So it seems, every time one of the game’s files gets corrupted, the app decides that the only way it can repair the game is by downloading it again, in its entirety. According to some users, the bug doesn’t happen only once, but every time it encounters a corrupt file.call of duty updates too big

So players end up having to wait for a whole download, which is, as you can see, very big. Some users even tried to uninstall the game, properly, and install it again. But it was in vain, as the bug happened all over again.

While there is not a definitive answer on why that happens, it seems that installing it in another hard drive did the trick of fixing it.

So far, neither Xbox nor Microsoft released anything related to the bug, as it might be considered an official bug. The game does a full download all over again if encounters a corrupted file. So that it repairs itself. You just have to wait in between.

Have you experienced this bug? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

Xbox Studios roadmap: what games to expect in 2023 & 2026

Posted on by Flavius Floare

Good news for gamers everywhere: a lot of new games are coming to Xbox in 2023 and 2024, according to a roadmap shared on Twitter.

The roadmap focuses on games that will be released in 2023, including Starfield, which is probably one of the most expected titles of the year. And if you didn’t know, the game will eat a lot of your storage, even if the system requirements are not that high.

The roadmap for Xbox definitely looks exciting. And to make it even better, Microsoft announced that over 5000 new games are in development for Xbox. Not to mention the fact that the Game Pass will come to NVIDIA GeForce Now. It will let you play all the games that GeForce Now streams.

This means you’ll be able to play the games on low-spec PCs, laptops, Macs, Chromebooks, TVs, or even mobile devices. Including these games that are in the roadmap for Xbox. Exciting news.

Xbox Studios roadmap: what games to expect in a couple of years

According to the roadmap, there are some important titles coming to Xbox in 2023:

They are:

  • Age of Empires 2, Xbox console version
  • Ghostwire, Xbox version
  • Minecraft Legends
  • RedFall
  • Starfield
  • Forza Horizon
  • ARA: History Untold
  • Age of Empires 4, Xbox console version

Starfield is of course one of the most anticipated titles, on this list. But Forza Horizon is another beloved video game that will arrive this year. And let’s not forget about the classic Age of Empires 4, which will find a new audience on Xbox.

The roadmap for 2023 definitely seems exciting, at least.

Let’s take a look at the roadmap for 2024. The titles are:

  • Avowed
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
  • TowerBorne
  • Flight Simulator 2024

These are the confirmed titles for 2024, and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 might be the most awaited from them all. But let’s not forget that titles such as TowerBorne and Avowed are also coming to Xbox.

Upcoming video games in the roadmap

A lot of new exciting games are coming to Xbox in the future, according to the Xbox studios roadmap including Everwild, a Kojima Productions project, and the much beloved Age of Mythology: Retold, which for many of us, it is the video game of our childhoods. xbox studios roadmap

Here is a complete list:

  • Everwild
  • The Outer Worlds 2
  • Project Mara
  • Fable
  • Age of Mythology: Retold
  • Perfect Dark
  • State of Decay
  • South Midnight
  • Clockwork Revolution
  • Contraband
  • Indiana Jones
  • Gears
  • The Elder Scrolls

Plus it seems that they will be focusing on ongoing projects too, such as Halo Multiplayers. We do wonder if a new Halo is in sight at Microsoft, but who knows? Microsoft said there’s a big roadmap for the franchise so we’re eager for news.

Even more, CES 2024 took place last week on January 9-12, and Microsoft had quite a few surprises for us as well.

What do you think about this roadmap? Are you excited about the new titles coming to Xbox? Let us know in the comments section below.

WordPad Not Opening? 4 Ways to Fix it

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

Even though most journeyman users won’t mind missing WordPad, it’s still a valuable asset for small text processing needs. There are various documents and formats WordPad can’t open (partly because Microsoft wants you to download Office), but it still does fairly well and can come in handy.

Since it’s been a built-in part of the Windows platform for a long time, it barely has any issues. Nonetheless, some users experienced some, as they were seemingly unable to open WordPad in Windows 10.

We made sure to find a few solutions to the problem at hand. If you can’t open text files with WordPad, you can try out our suggestions and, hopefully, resolve this.

What can I do if WordPad is not opening?

1. Scan for malware

  1. Close all applications you were working on.
  2. Open Windows Defender from the notification area.
  3. Choose Virus & threat protection.wordpad won't open windows 10
  4. Click Scan options.
  5. Choose Windows Defender Offline Scan and click on Scan now.wordpad won't open windows 10

As we already said, the WordPad text processor is a built-in desktop application. A reminiscence of the past Windows iterations. It’s stored with other installed programs in the WindowsNT folder.

That means that it’s, to some extent and in comparison to system files, vulnerable to malware infections or misuse. Even some applications for cleaning the system can delete one of its files, and that’s rarely the case. A virus, on the other hand, can affect it.

That’s why we need you to perform a deep scan and look for possible malware presence. This can be done with the built-in Windows Defender or any reliable third-party antivirus.

2. Repair corrupt system files

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Command Prompt, and click on Run as administrator.
  2. In the command line, paste this and press Enter:sfc /scannowwordpad won't open windows 10

Also, we recommend running the System File Checker utility in Command Prompt. This tool replaces the corrupt system files with the cached copy stored on the PC.
Even better, you can try specialized third-party repair software to handle corrupt files with just a few clicks.

3. Try starting WordPad from the installation folder

If the WordPad won’t start or open files when chosen from the contextual menu, you can try running it directly from where default installation path. If you open WordPad, it might get repaired (in case some registry inputs got misconfigured).

The executable we’re looking for is found by following this path:C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows NT\Accessories\

Simply double-click on the WordPad.exe and run it, or you could launch it as an administrator. Then, locate the files you want to open with WordPad and start with the editing.

4. Use an alternative

Now, we know this isn’t a solution but a mere workaround. But, if you’re in dire need of a text processor but are not willing to reset your system to factory values, we recommend looking up alternatives.

Check our curated list of the best writing apps and pick one that meets your requirements. You can also try an open-source free text editor like Open Office or even use Microsoft Office online.

If you have any alternative solution or recommendation, feel free to tell us in the comments section below.

How to Create & Set up a Group Email in Gmail

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Gmail remains one of the most used email services worldwide, with over 1.8 billion active users. And most users often send emails to several users, particularly in organizations and even social groups. As a result, they create a group email in Gmail.

Even for other apps, for instance, Windows Mail, users can create a group. But is it all that relevant? Does creating email groups in Gmail help? Let’s find out and learn how to create an email group in Gmail.

What is the purpose of creating a group email?

Creating a group list of email addresses presents several benefits. Here are the most significant ones:

  • Saves time: The primary benefit of creating email groups is that users don’t have to individually add a large number of addresses, which helps save significant time.
  • Simplifies the process: When adding individual addresses, there is a chance of missing out on a few. But creating an email group eliminates the possibility and ensures a seamless process. And when coupled with an effective email client, you get an even better experience.
  • Ensures better management: With email groups, you can have the required members of the organization in a loop for vital information, which results in better management.

How do I create a group email list in Gmail?

  1. Open Gmail, click on the Google apps icon near the top right, and then select Contacts.contacts
  2. Now, tick the checkboxes before the contacts you want to add to the group, click on the Manage labels icon, and select Create label.new label to create group email in gmail
  3. Enter a name for the label in the text field, and click Save.label
  4. Once you have created a label, head back to Gmail, start composing an email, then in the To field, enter the label name, and select it from the menu.send email
  5. The present email will now be sent to all the email addresses added to the group/label.

That’s all! This is how users can create a group in Gmail and simultaneously send emails to multiple addresses. Once you start employing the feature, it will certainly enhance productivity and minimize mistakes.

If you’re using groups in Outlook, you should check our guide on how to delete Outlook group, in case you don’t want to use it anymore. You can stop syncing emails across different devices as well.

Before you leave, check some quick tips to speed up Gmail if it’s running slow or is stuck. Moreover, if you want to know how to highlight text in your emails, we can help out! You can also send multiple pictures at once.

For any queries or to share your feedback on Gmail, drop a comment below.

How to Create a Group Email in Outlook [Desktop, Windows & Mac]

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Whether you’re organizing a team at work, setting up a family mailing list, or creating a study group, learning how to create a group email in Outlook is important.

In fact, Outlook makes it surprisingly easy. The process does vary depending on whether you’re using Outlook on the web, Windows, or Mac. But once you’ve set it up, you can send emails to everyone in your group with just one click. Without further ado, let’s jump into the methods.

How do I create a group email in my Outlook?

  1. Launch Outlook on your Windows PC, and navigate to the People tab from the left pane.people
  2. Click on New Contact Group.new contact group to create group email in outlook
  3. Add a name for the group in the text field, click on Add Members, and select an option to add these from the dropdown menu.add members
  4. We choose New E-mail Contact, entered the email address, and clicked on OK to add the user. You can similarly add others as well.
  5. Once done, click on Save & Close to create the contact group.create group email in outlook

That’s all! It’s this simple to create a contact group email in Outlook, and you can add as many as you would like in no time. Besides, you can similarly create a group in the Outlook web app and its Mac version.

How Do I Create an Email Group in Outlook on the Web

If you’re using Outlook.com, here’s the easiest way to create a group:

  1. First, sign in to Outlook.com.
  2. Next, click the People icon in the left sidebar.
  3. Then, select the dropdown arrow next to New Contact and choose New Group.
  4. After that, enter your group’s name and, if you’d like, add a description so people know what the group is for.
  5. Now, hit Create, then start typing names or email addresses to add members.
  6. Finally, click Add to confirm.

That’s it, your group is ready. Outlook even sends members a welcome email so they kno

How to Set Up an Email Group in Outlook for Mac

On Mac, creating an email group is as easy as creating it on Windows and the desktop app for Outlook. Here’s how it’s done:

  1. First, open Outlook for Mac.
  2. Then, go to File > New > Group.
  3. Now, enter your group’s name (and add a description if you want).
  4. Finally, click Create to finish.

NOTE: If you don’t see the option for “Group,” it may be disabled by your IT department.

How do I send an email to a group on Outlook?

  1. Open the Outlook application, and click on New Email.new email
  2. In the To text field, enter the group name, and select it from the list of options in the menu that appears.send email to created group email in outlook
  3. Draft the email, be it the subject or the content, and finally, click Send.
How do I create a distribution group mailbox in Outlook

A distribution group mailbox is created by making a contact group in Outlook. On Windows, click New Contact Group in the Home tab, add members, and save. On Outlook.com, use New Group under contacts. If you’re using Outlook through your workplace, your IT admin may need to enable distribution groups in Exchange.

How do I remove someone from an Outlook group

Open Outlook and go to People. Select the group you want to edit, then click Edit (pencil icon). From the member list, select the person you want to remove and click Remove. Save your changes, and that contact will no longer be part of the group.

How do I edit an email group name in Outlook

To change the name of a group, go to People, then find your group under Groups you own. Click the Edit (pencil) icon, update the group name (and description if needed), then click Save. The new name will appear for all members.

How do I create a group email list in Outlook

You can create a group email list in Outlook by going to the People section. On the web, click New Group under the contacts menu. On Windows, use New Contact Group in the Home tab. On Mac, go to File > New > Group. Add members, give your group a name, and save it, your email list is ready.

How do I send an email to a new group in Outlook

Open Outlook and click New Email. In the “To” field, type the name of your contact group, and Outlook will auto-fill the group address. Write your email as usual, then click Send. Your message will be delivered to all group members automatically.

And that completes all the information you need on the subject! By now, you already know how to create an email group on Outlook and should have one or multiple groups set up. You can also send multiple pictures at once.

If you don’t want to use the group anymore, we have a great guide on how to delete an Outlook group, so be sure not to miss it.

Before you leave, check some quick tips to speed up Outlook’s indexing and improve Outlook’s performance on the PC. You may also check our article on how to recall & resend an email in Outlook. And lastly, find out how to import vCards in Outlook.

All users will be able to uninstall Microsoft Teams Chat

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

There’s no denying the fact that, despite its huge popularity, not everyone is a Microsoft Teams fan and many don’t want anything to do with the software.

On that note, Microsoft may let you uninstall Chat, which is a Microsoft Teams for consumer feature, and remove it from Windows Settings.

Speaking of teams, we can show you how to create easy visuals, or maybe how to use the AI-based intelligent recap, if that is something you need.

We will be able to remove Teams Chat

In truth, this strategic move could be done in order to avoid the threat of antitrust investigation by European Union regulators.

Even though it’s already possible to unpin Teams Chat from the taskbar, you cannot remove it from the operating system entirely.

It is also pretty important to understand that unpinning Chat from the taskbar does not remove the feature, as it still lives inside the taskbar and settings but is hidden.

The Redmond-based tech giant is letting you remove the feature entirely, including from the Settings app.

In fact, Microsoft is removing the integrated Teams Chat menu, in Windows 11, and replaces it with a pinned app shortcut.

Microsoft has released the Build 23481 for Windows Insiders and it features the new option to unpin it, and remove it.

  • Starting with his build, Chat is now Microsoft Teams – Free. Microsoft Teams – Free is pinned by default to the taskbar and can be unpinned like other apps on the taskbar. Stay tuned for more enhancements as we continue to enhance Microsoft Teams – Free with more features and improvements.

In case you weren’t aware, Teams Chat was announced with much hype at Windows 11’s October 2021 event.

The feature was integrated into Windows 11 Shell/taskbar and offers a user-friendly experience, allowing anyone to connect with friends and family outside of work for free.

You should know that Teams isn’t popular in the consumer space as people prefer Meta products such as WhatsApp and Facebook to communicate with friends or families.

Teams Chat, which failed to gain traction in the consumer market, was part of a broader effort by Microsoft to remain relevant with consumers.

So, instead of rebranding Teams, Microsoft changed the Teams app and added features for people looking to chat.

We’ll keep a close eye on the matter and report back once new details are available. Be sure to leave a comment below with your thoughts and opinions.

0xc03F300D Microsoft Store Error: How to Fix It

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Microsoft Store is a valuable resource for downloading and updating applications for Windows. However, one common issue that users encounter is the 0xc03F300D Microsoft Store error, which can prevent you from installing or updating apps.

In this guide, we will delve into the causes of the error and provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to fix it.

What causes the 0xc03f300d Microsoft Store error?

The 0xc03F300D Microsoft Store error can occur due to various reasons. Here are a few:

  • Connectivity issues – If your internet connection is unstable, you may see this error. Try to troubleshoot your internet or contact your ISP to fix it.
  • Cache corruption – The cache files used by the Microsoft Store can become corrupted or outdated, triggering the issue. Try to clear the app cache to fix the problem.
  • Windows Store issues – If the Microsoft Store is facing the issue locally, you may not be able to access it, hence the error. You can repair the app to resolve this.
  • System files corruption – The system files related to the app can get damaged and cause this problem. Try repairing the system files to get rid of the problem.
  • Account-related issues – If there are problems with your Microsoft account or if it is not properly linked or authenticated within the Microsoft Store, it can lead to the 0xc03F300D error.

These are some of the common causes of the error; let us check out the solutions to eliminate the problem.

How can I fix the 0xc03f300d Microsoft Store error?

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

Once you have conducted these checks, let us move on to the solutions to fix this problem.

1. Run the Windows Apps troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, then click Troubleshoot.System troubleshoot
  3. Click Other troubleshooters.Other Troubleshooters 0xc03F300D
  4. Locate Windows Store Apps and click Run.Windows store app
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

This troubleshooter tool may help you identify the issues, yet it doesn’t ensure the fix for the specific errors.

Hence, you can make great use of a professional system repair tool that will diagnose Windows issues and find reliable ways to properly fix this.

2. Change Startup type for related services

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Run services.msc command 0xc03F300D
  2. Type services.msc and click OK to open the Services app.
  3. Locate and double-click Windows Update to open Properties.Windows Update service
  4. On the Properties window, for Startup, select Automatic.Startup type Automatic
  5. Click Apply, then OK.

3. Clear the Microsoft Store cache

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.CMD elevated
  2. Type the following command to reset the app along with all dependencies: and hit Enter: wsreset.exeWSreset clear cache 0xc03F300D
  3. Microsoft Store will reopen.
  4. To save the changes, reboot your computer.

Clearing the store cache can help you fix other Windows Store app issues like Microsoft Store error 0x00000005; read this guide to learn more.

4. Run SFC & DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.CMD elevated
  2. Type the following command to repair system files and press Enter: sfc /scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD 0xc03F300D
  3. Wait for the command to complete, then copy & paste the following command one by one to repair Windows OS image files and hit Enter after every command:
    • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
      Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
      Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer.

5. Repair/reset the Microsoft Store app

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Apps, then click Installed apps.Apps, installed apps 0xc03F300D
  3. Locate Microsoft Store, click three dots, and then Advanced options.Advanced options
  4. Click Repair.Repair
  5. If the issue persists, open Advanced options again and click Reset.Reset

6. Reinstall the Microsoft Store app

  1. Press the Windows key, type powershell, and click Run as administrator.Powershell 2 0xc03F300D
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: get-appxpackage –alluserspowershell_Ja1sDcLIKP
  3. You will get the list of apps; locate Microsoft.WindowsStore and copy the entry for PackageFullName.powershell_mZvxATPm8x
  4. Once done, copy & paste the following command to remove Microsoft Store app after replacing PackageFullName with the name displayed in the PowerShell window and hit Enter: remove-appxpackage PackageFullName
  5. Restart your computer. Open PowerShell again with admin rights.
  6. To reinstall Microsoft Store, type the following command and press Enter: Add-AppxPackage -register "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsStore_11804.1001.8.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe\AppxManifest.xml" –DisableDevelopmentMode

So, these are methods to fix the 0xc03F300D Microsoft Store error and regain full access. If nothing has worked for you, we suggest you contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.

If you are not able to find Microsoft Store in Apps and features, then we suggest you check out this detailed guide to fix the problem

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

Bad Request: Header Field Too Long [Error Fix]

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Have you ever encountered the frustrating Bad request header field too long error message while browsing a website on Google Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge? If so, fret not!

The matter at hand bears resemblance to the HTTP error 400 that we previously addressed in our guide.

Before addressing the issue at hand, we must examine its underlying cause.

Why does my PC keep saying Bad request: header field too long?

This is mostly a cookie issue, and the following might be the reasons:

  • This issue typically arises when using the Nginx web server.
  • In some cases, websites utilizing this software may restrict browser cookies of a specific size.
  • It might experience corruption in the cookie stored in the browser.

Fortunately, there are ways to rectify this cookie problem. Let’s explore some solutions.

How can I fix Bad request: header field too long?

1. For Google Chrome

  1. Open Google Chrome, click the three dots at the top far right, and click the History section.
  2. Next, click Clear browsing data

  3. Now set the time range to All Time. Select Cookies and other site data & Cached images and files and lastly choose Clear Data.

2. For Mozilla Firefox

  1. Open Mozilla Firefox, click on the Tools bar at the top right corner and choose History.

  2. Next, choose Clear Recent History.

  3. In the Clear recent history menu, choose the time range to Everything.

  4. Check the options, Cookies, Active Logins, Cache, Site settings, and Offline website data, lastly click Clear now.
  5. Restart Firefox to check if the bad request: header field is too long has been fixed.

After doing that, the problem should be gone in Firefox.

3. Microsoft Edge

  1. Click the three horizontal dots in the upper right-hand corner and click Settings.

  2. Now, click the Privacy, search, and Services tab. Go to the Choose what to clear part and click Choose what to clear option. 

  3. Now check the Cookies and saved website data option and click Clear. Then, restart the browser and check to see if the issue has been fixed.

We hope this guide has provided you with the necessary assistance in resolving your concern. As you have witnessed, rectifying this problem is not as daunting as it may seem at first glance.

If you encounter any more obstacles, we suggest looking into our guide on Website is not accessible error. This resource may offer comparable solutions to your issue.

Your feedback would be greatly appreciated, so please leave a comment below and inform us of the most effective solution you found.

ReviOS: is it really faster than Windows 11?

Posted on by Flavius Floare

While Windows 11 becomes more stable with each update, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s not consuming a lot of CPU power.

In fact, Windows 11 can only be installed in systems that meet its requirements, so you might want to stick around on Windows 10 if you haven’t upgraded your PC yet.

Either way, if you’re still on Windows 10, there is still time to think about it. And if not, then Microsoft can automatically label your system as eligible for Windows 11. So that way, you’ll know for sure that you can install it.

But if you’re already on Windows 11, and you find it laggy sometimes, you still have a very unconventional method to experience a smooth Windows 11. How? Well, you can try ReviOS Windows 11.

Some users actually agree that ReviOS Windows 11 is faster than Windows 11, and you can install it on your PC as well.

So I installed Windows 11 ReviOS for a debloated experience.
byu/MessiahMozgus inROGAlly

Is ReviOS Windows 11 faster than Windows 11?

Let’s start with the basics. What is ReviOS? Well, ReviOS, or Revision, is a custom ISO made with gamers and power users in mind.

It removes a lot of the deemed unnecessary apps and software from Windows 11 and throws them to the wayside. In short, your Windows 11 will keep the must-have apps, considerably reducing CPU power usage.revios windows 11

You’ll no longer have features like Notifications, Account Control, or updates to Edge. But you’ll still have the Xbox app and Windows Security, so you’re not going to be completely unprotected from malware.

However, Defender is not ReviOS, so you should know that. If you plan to install it, then consider installing an Anti-Virus right after, so you can be protected.

On the other hand, ReviOS Windows 11 is pretty light: the ISO file has around 3.56GB. The system requirements are also very convenient. ReviOS Windows 11 requires you to have 4GB of RAM, instead of the 8GB of RAM that Windows 11 is asking.

The users on the Reddit thread said that they feel a huge difference in computer behavior, before and after installing ReviOS.

You’ll have the liberty to choose which apps you can install. Plus, after installation, you can visit Revision’s Workspace. It will let you customize your Windows 11 the way you want it to be.

So will it make Windows 11 faster? Definitely. Is it faster than the standard Windows 11? Also, yes. It gets rid of unnecessary apps to make room for more performance.

And if you’re a gamer, or content creator, who daily pushes its system to the limit, then ReviOS Windows 11 might just be for you.

Check out the Reddit thread, to see the other users’ input on it. Make an idea about it, and try it for yourself if you want.

And be sure to let us know your experience with it in the comments section below.

Runtime Error 32809: How to Quickly Fix it

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

When it comes to Microsoft Excel, runtime errors or bugs are not uncommon, and Error 32809 is one such example. To ensure a smooth user experience, software developers like Microsoft Corporation put the application through rigorous debugging processes before releasing it to the public.

In our previous article, we explored the Runtime error 13: type mismatch, but now we face a comparable predicament.

However, it is imperative to determine the root cause before tackling the matter.

What is Runtime error 32809?

Encountering Excel Error 32809 is a common issue during Microsoft Excel startup or runtime. The origin of these runtime errors can be identified by analyzing the error code.

The Excel VBA error 32809 can be a headache as it seems to occur without any clear explanation. It’s interesting to note that the error may only happen on one computer in an office setting, while another computer running the same macro may not encounter the problem.

How can I fix Runtime error 32809?

  • Missing files – If your system is missing files like mscomctl.ocx and comctl32.ocx, you might encounter this error.
  • Alter the Trust Settings – Deactivating certain security measures in the Trust Settings, will resolve the issue, and the system will begin to function properly.
  • Change the controls –  It is recommended that you replace all ActiveX Controls with Form controls. 

1. Delete recently installed updates

  1. Select Start, click on Settings now choose Windows Update, and tap Update History.
  2. Now click on Uninstall updates. 
  3. On the list that pops up, find the update you want to remove, and then choose Uninstall next to it.

2. Alter the file format

  1. You can save the file as .xlsx (macro-free).
  2. Now open the source file with macros and copy modules to the .xlsx file.
  3. Lastly, save the file as .xlsm.

Our comprehensive manual aims to ease your worries and provide useful information. We genuinely hope that our guide has given you some valuable insight.

If you encounter any further problems, we recommend referring to our extensive guide on Runtime error 429. This guide offers comparable solutions to help you overcome your issue.

We truly appreciate your input on this matter and would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave a comment below and share your perspective with us.

How to use the Focus Sessions widget on Windows 11

Posted on by Flavius Floare

Good news for Windows 11 users this week: it seems that you can use the Focus Sessions widget on the operating system sooner than expected.

Microsoft released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23481 to the Dev Channel and you can download the ISO file as well if you find it more convenient this way.

The release brings some important improvements to Windows Ink, which is a very useful tool for organizations. But among the new features, the Focus Sessions widget steals the show.

The Focus Session feature is already on Windows 11, but not as a widget, though. You can find it in the taskbar, below your calendar, and it’s very useful for when you have to focus at work. However, you can easily forget about it, because it’s simply not in your glance.

Here’s how you can use the Focus Sessions widget on Windows 11

Because it’s not in your glance, you can easily forget about using the Focus Sessions option, however, Microsoft is putting it in a widget, so that way, you can use it when you check for the weather. Or when you’re using the other widgets.

The new Focus Sessions Widget will be part of the Clock app update, and currently, it’s available in Microsoft Store in Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels.

You’ll be able to access it by clicking on the Widgets button > Focus Sessions Widget. focus sessions windows 11

As you can see, accessing it will be very easy, but if you find it annoying, you can also disable focus sessions to revert to the old clock style.

What other features and improvements are coming to Windows 11, you may ask?

Here’s the complete list:

Changes and Improvements

[Taskbar & System Tray]

  • Never combined mode, which enables you to see each window of your applications on the taskbar individually, and which began rolling out with Build 23466, is now available to all Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.
Taskbar in never combined mode.
Taskbar in never combined mode.
  • Starting with his build, Chat is now Microsoft Teams – Free. Microsoft Teams – Free is pinned by default to the taskbar and can be unpinned like other apps on the taskbar. Stay tuned for more enhancements as we continue to enhance Microsoft Teams – Free with more features and improvements.

[File Explorer]

  • The ability to tear out and merge tabs in File Explorer, which began rolling out with Build 23471, is now available to all Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.

[Voice access]

  • The new text authoring experiences in voice access that began rolling out with Build 23466 is now available to all Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.

Fixes

[Dev Drive]

  • Fixed an issue where filters beyond AV might be attached to your Dev Drive on reboot.
  • Fixed an issue which could cause a bugcheck when using Dev Drive.

[File Explorer]

  • Fixed an issue where the icons in the File Explorer context menu could be blurry.
  • Fixed an issue where sync status icons for files backing up to a storage provider were not reliably displayed.
  • Fixed an issue for authentication errors on File Explorer Home where the ‘Please Sign-in’ button appeared but clicking on it did not pop-up the authentication dialog.
  • Updated “Show files from Office.com” text in folder options to “Include account-based insights, recent, favorite, and recommended files”.
  • Using CTRL + V to paste an image in Gallery will now paste the image into your default pictures folder (the default folder can be configured under Collection > Manage Collection in Gallery).
  • If you hover your mouse over the details button in File Explorer, the tooltip should no longer block the close button for the window.

We fixed the following issues for Insiders with the modernized address bar in File Explorer:

  • Fixed the direction of the search icon within the tab when doing a search in File Explorer.
  • Fixed an issue where tabbing or Shift + tabbing from the command bar wouldn’t land focus inside the current folder.
  • Fixed an issue where if you set focus into the address bar (to edit the path), you wouldn’t be able to use the tab to move focus out of it.
  • If the current path is longer than the available space in the address bar, a bit of room now has been added so you can still click and go into edit mode.

We fixed the following issues for Insiders who have the modernized File Explorer Home:

  • Fixed an issue where hovering over folders in the Quick Access section of Home was causing the name to disappear and the icon to slide to the side if you had checkboxes enabled.
  • Dragging and dropping into the Favorites or Quick Access sections should work again now.

[Search on the Taskbar]

  • Fixed an issue where navigating the search flyout on the taskbar with the keyboard arrow keys did not work as expected.

NOTE: Some fixes noted here in Insider Preview builds from the Dev Channel may make their way into the servicing updates for the released version of Windows 11.

Known issues

[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]

  • Text scaling may not work in the search flyout.

[File Explorer]

  • 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.
  • [NEW] 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 the ‘Recommended’ section (applicable to Enterprise users).
  • Insiders signed in with an AAD account and tried 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.
  • [NEW] 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]

  • On the first boot after installing this build and connecting a device, the “Use Dynamic Lighting on my devices” toggle is off in Settings. Device LEDs may not turn on automatically. Turning this toggle on in the all-device Settings page and in the per-device page(s) should turn on your device’s LEDs. If this doesn’t work, try restarting your Windows PC again.
  • 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]

  • [NEW] Users can’t use handwriting to erase text in Microsoft Edge.
  • [NEW] The address box in Microsoft Edge might not work correctly.
  • [NEW] Windows Ink does not convert handwriting to text into the main content (e.g., Word documents and Excel spreadsheets) in Microsoft 365 applications.
  • [NEW] Search boxes in Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., Microsoft Word) might not work correctly.
  • [NEW] Comment fields in Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., Microsoft Word) might not work correctly.

What are your thoughts and opinions about the new Focus Sessions Widgets? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.

Wuauclt.exe Not Working? Fix It in 4 Simple Steps

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If wuauclt.exe is not working, the Windows Update Automatic Updates client will fail as well, so you won’t be able to install any OS updates.

In this guide, we will explore the causes behind the issue and provide simple steps to fix it, ensuring smooth Windows updates and system maintenance.

What causes the wuauclt.exe not working issue?

There could be various reasons for this error; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

  • Incorrect configurations or settings – Improper configurations or settings within the Windows Update service can cause wuauclt.exe to encounter issues or fail to function correctly.
  • Corrupted or missing system files – The wuauclt.exe or related system files may become corrupted or go missing, leading to malfunctions and errors.
  • Software conflicts – Conflicts with other software, such as security programs or third-party utilities, can interfere with the file’s functionality.
  • Malware infection – If your computer is infected with viruses, it can corrupt the wuauclt.exe file, leading to malfunctions or disabling its proper operation. Run a malware scan to fix it.

Now that you know the causes of the error, let us move to the troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem.

How can I fix the wuauclt.exe not working issue?

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

Once you are through these, move to the troubleshooting solutions.

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System, then click Troubleshoot.troubleshoot Wuauclt.exe Not Working
  3. Click Other troubleshooters.Other Troubleshooters
  4. Go to Windows Update and click Run. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.Windows Update Troubleshopoer

2. Run SFC & DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.CMD elevated Wuauclt.exe Not Working
  2.  Copy & paste the following command to restore Windows OS image files and press Enter: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthRestore health Wuauclt.exe Not Working
  3. Once the command is run, the DISM uses Windows Update to provide the files needed to fix corruption; once done, type the following command to replace corrupted files with a cached copy  and hit Enter: sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD
  4. It may take several minutes for the command operation to complete; once done, restart your computer.

You can also automate this process by using a reliable tool with advanced scanning and repairing capabilities.

3. Run your PC in a clean boot environment

  1. Press Windows +R to open the Run dialog box.msconfig Wuauclt.exe Not Working
  2. Type msconfig and click OK to open the System Configuration box.
  3. Go to the Services tab, place a checkmark next to Hide all Microsoft services, and then click Disable all.Clean boot Disable all
  4. Next, switch to the Startup tab, and click Open Task Manager.CLEAN BOOT 5
  5. Select the Enabled items individually and click Disable, then close Task Manager and go back to the System Configuration window.Disable Startup
  6. Click Apply, then OK to complete the process.CLEAN BOOT 5
  7. Click Restart now to save the changes.Restart clean boot

Now your computer will restart in the clean boot with minimal services; try to install the update and check if you get the error. If yes, you can isolate the error causing the issue and resolve it accordingly. To restart your computer in normal mode, follow the above steps and undo all the changes made.

4. Reset the Windows Update components

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.CMD elevated Wuauclt.exe Not Working
  2. Copy & paste the following commands to stop Windows Update, BITS & cryptographic services, and hit Enter after every command:Stop the services Wuauclt.exe Not Working
    • net stop bits
      net stop wuauserv
      net stop appidsvc
      net stop cryptsvc
  3. To delete the qmgr*.dat files, type the following command and press Enter:Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\qmgr*.dat"
  4. To clear the Windows Update cache to allow Windows 10 to re-download the updates, copy & paste the following commands one by one and hit Enter after every command:
    • rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q
      rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q
  5. Type the following commands to reset the BITS and Windows Update service to the default security descriptor and press Enter:
    • sc.exe sdset bits D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU)
      sc.exe sdset wuauserv D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU)
  6. Copy & paste the following command and hit Enter:cd /d %windir%\system32
  7. To re-register the BITS files & the Windows Update-related dll files, type the following commands one after the other and press Enter after every command:
    • regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s shdocvw.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s browseui.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s jscript.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s vbscript.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s scrrun.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s msxml.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s msxml3.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s msxml6.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s actxprxy.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s softpub.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wintrust.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s dssenh.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s rsaenh.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s gpkcsp.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s sccbase.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s slbcsp.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s cryptdlg.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s oleaut32.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s ole32.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s shell32.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s initpki.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wuapi.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wuaueng.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wuaueng1.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wucltui.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wups.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wups2.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wuweb.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s qmgr.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s qmgrprxy.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wucltux.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s muweb.dll
      regsvr32.exe /s wuwebv.dll
  8. Copy & paste the following command to reset Winsock and hit Enter:
    • netsh winsock reset
      netsh winsock reset proxy
  9. Type the following commands to start Windows Update, BITS & cryptographic services, and press Enter after every command:Start the services Wuauclt.exe Not Working
    • net start bits
      net start wuauserv
      net start appidsvc
      net start cryptsvc
  10. Reboot your PC to confirm the changes.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively fix issues with wuauclt.exe and ensure the smooth functioning of Windows updates. If nothing worked for you, we suggest you perform a system restore to revert to the last known good configuration of Windows.

To avoid these errors and issues, you must focus on regular system maintenance, such as performing scheduled antivirus scans and keeping software up to date.

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

Event ID 5137: A Directory Service Object Was Created [Fix]

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If you have encountered Event ID 5137 on your computer and wondering what it is, this guide can help! In this guide, we will explore the causes of the event and provide solutions to address any potential issues or misconfiguration.

What is Event ID 5137?

Event ID 5137 is a specific event log entry in the Windows Event Viewer related to the Active Directory service in a Windows environment.

When an object is created in Active Directory, such as a user account, group, or organizational unit, the event is logged with this event.

It provides information about the object that was created, including its name, unique identifier (GUID), and location within the directory structure.

The Event ID helps administrators monitor and track object creations, ensuring accountability and compliance with administrative policies.

You must remember that this event alone does not indicate an error or problem, as it is a normal event that occurs during routine administrative tasks.

However, in some cases, it may indicate unauthorized object creations that require further investigation to ensure the security and integrity of the Active Directory environment.

Why do I get the Event ID 5137?

There could be several reasons for this event to occur; some of the common ones are:

  • Legitimate object creation – It may occur due to routine administrative activities, such as creating a new user account, group, or organizational units.
  • Misconfigurations or errors – This event may occur due to improper configurations or errors in Active Directory settings, including issues with permissions and synchronization processes.
  • Unauthorized object creation – Event ID 5137 may indicate unauthorized or suspicious object creation, which could be a sign of a security breach or malicious activity.

Now that you know the reasons, let us move to the next section to understand what needs to do

How can I fix the Event ID 5137 issues?

1. Review the event details & verify the legitimacy

  1. Press the Windows key, type event viewer, and click Open.Event Viewer event id 5137
  2. Go to Windows Logs, then Security.
  3. On the right pane, you will get the list of events logged.event id 5137 evetn viwer
  4. Locate Event ID 5137, select, and go to General. Check the security change and other modifications made for the file or folder.

If you think the change was legit, you don’t have to take an action. However, if you feel otherwise, then you must move to the next step.

2. Audit Active Directory changes

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.Device Manager Run command Event IS 5137
  2. Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer Configuration\Policies\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\Audit PolicyAudit policy
  4. Click Audit Policy and check all the policies listed in the right pane to ensure the settings are appropriate.

To keep an eye on changes made to the Active Directory, you can enable auditing of Active Directory. It must be configured to log relevant events, including object creations.

You must implement a centralized log management solution to consolidate and analyze the audit logs for prompt detection of suspicious activities.

If you already have the audit policy in place, review and update the permissions and access controls within Active Directory to ensure they are aligned with your organization’s security policies.

3. Use security assessment tools

To perform periodic security assessments and audits of your Active Directory infrastructure, we suggest using security assessment tools to scan for vulnerabilities in the environment in real time.

This will help you address any identified security gaps to reduce the likelihood of unauthorized object creation.

So, these are solutions that you can use to address Event ID 5137 effectively and ensure the integrity and security of your Active Directory environment.

To maintain a healthy and secure directory service, regular monitoring, proper configurations, and proactive security measures are critical.

If you are looking for the best practices for Active Directory, we suggest you check out this guide for solutions.

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

Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 Gen 8 Review: More screen for less

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

Starting at $799.99

Despite Apple hijacking the narrative this year with their bump in screen size for the MacBook Air, Windows OEMs have known for some time that bigger screens sell, and the Lenovo Yoga 7i 16-inch Gen 8 is among the best deals around.

Starting with a price tag several hundred bucks fewer than a new premium smartphone, the Lenovo Yoga 7i Gen 8 offers a new 13th generation Intel Core processor, 16GB of memory, up to 512GB of solid-state storage, and a vibrant 1920 x 1200 16-inch IPS touchscreen in a convenient foldable form factor.

Specs
Lenovo Yoga 7i 16-inch
Processor Up to Intel 12thGen Corei7-1260P
Operating System Up to Windows 11Pro
Display 16″ 2.5K LCD (2560 x 1600) IPS, 400 nits, 100% sRGB, 60 Hz, 16:10, Low Blue Light
Storage Up to 1TB PCIe NVMe
Graphics Intel Iris XeGraphics
Camera 720p HD f2.0 camera (front-facing)
Memory Up to 16GB LPDDR5
Dimensions 12.47″ x 8.67″ x 0.68″(361.51mm x 249.65mm x 19.20mm)1.9kg / 4.19lbs
Audio 2 x 2W user-facing tweeters and 2 x 3W woofers Dolby Atmos Speaker System
Weight 2.44 lbs (1,110 g)
Color Colors: ArcticGrey or StormGreyDisplay cover: AluminumBottom: Aluminum
Ports/Slots 1 x USB-A (USB 3.2 Gen 14)2 x USB-C (Thunderbolt™ 4.0 / PD /DisplayPort™ / USB 4.0)1 x HDMI™ 2.01 x Full-size SD Card Reader (UHS-1(104) PCIe Gen 1)1 x USB-A (USB 3.2 Gen 1)1 x Audio Combo Jack1 x Power Button
Battery 71Whwith Rapid Charge Express (3 hours battery life in 15 min)
What’s in the box 6-row, multimedia Fn keys, LED backlight
Precision Touchpad

Look and Feel

Aside from the sheer footprint of the Yoga 7i 16, the first thing customers are greeted with is Lenovo’s new consumer facing hardware redesign its labeled Comfort Edge, which rounds all the adorns all the corners and sides of the laptop with a polished rounded profile. Lenovo’s Comfort Edge design is now in its third year of being rolled out to the company’s consumer-facing laptops and still feels very modern and somewhat aspirational in a sea of harder-edge laptops such as the XPS line up or the HP Spectre devices.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 Gen - Yoga Tent Mode

The intent of the design is presumably to make Lenovo’s laptops easier to hold in hand, and while the Yoga 7i 16 is technically a folding 2-in-1 meant to be held as tablet in some instances, the 4.5lbs or 2.04kg brick won’t get much extended use in the Yoga’s coveted Tablet-Mode.

Never the less, the design of the aluminum alloy chassis is just as sturdy as its predecessor and cousin devices that utilize the same Comfort Edge design, however, the 2023 model does tweak the area around the bottom of the screen connected keyboard to reduce thickness ever so slightly as well as Lenovo omitting the speaker grilles that were present on the 2022 models.

In both the Artic and Storm Grey color options, fingerprint-smudge management is relatively easy. Fingerprints are rarely shown in most lighting conditions and can be easily wiped away with a napkin or microfiber cloth.

As for the port selection, the 7i 16 offers the same great selection as its 2022 model minus a full-sized SD reader. In 2023, 7i 16 owners get a 1.4b full HDMI port, 2 Thunderbolt 4 USB-C slots, a MicroSD reader and 2 USB-A 3.2 ports, along with a 3.5mm headset/mic combo.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 Gen 8 - Ports

Despite only offering a microSD solution, the 7i 16 still provides similar reads and writes with 60 to 90MB/s.

Unfortunately, Lenovo continues to put vents directly under the keyboard which tends to heat up knees and thighs when using the 7i 16 out and about as well as pushes hot air on to the top of the laptop in tablet mode. I would love for the Comfort Edge design 2.0 to try circulating the air through the back and sides of the device which could prevent the vents from being blocked in position the Yoga adopts, but that’s a gripe for another time.

When the lid is open, customers are greeted with a large 16-inch, 1200p, 10-point touch screen which offers a slightly lower resolution than last year’s at 1600p. Lenovo also skimped on the sRGB calibration as well as brightness, perhaps to reach its new budget-friendly pricing. While notebook reviewers alike will keenly point out the slightly perceptible changes to the monitor, most laptop buyers will notice little difference between models while lauding the price difference between it and competing products such as the Galaxy Book 3 Pro 360, Dell Inspirion 16 of Dell XPS 15.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 Gen - Yoga Screen

Another nitpick about the display some privileged customers may complain about is the standard 60hz refresh rate in a growing sea of adaptive 90, 120, 165, and 225Hz panels.

The webcam is still a non-starter for seasoned video conferencing individuals as its capabilities remained capped at 2M. The webcam does capture 1080p resolution which is up from its previous 720p ceiling, but there is notable noise in most lighting conditions. Lenovo offers software dubbed Lenovo Smart Appearance which offers a limited selection of tweaks and filters to help enhance the captures but most customers are better off buying a $20 webcam from Amazon for future video conferencing efforts.

Lastly, the backlit keyboard on the 7i 16 is just soft as its 2022 model as it lifts the same design and key travel as the U-shaped chiclet-style keyboard from most Yoga and IdeaPads in the company lineup. The feel of typing on a Level ThinkPad is different than on its consumer Yoga and IdeaPad, minus the full-sized number pad (which I hate).

Performance

Screenshot 2023 06 15 110534 2

Putting these benchmarks into context, the Lenovo 7i 16, performs as well as the previous 2022 model with a few exceptions in regards to battery life and sustained performance.

In day-to-day use for most customers who live in data processing workflows that include email triaging, Excel (or Sheets) reviews, or presentation creation, web browsing, organizing meeting data and marketing material, data analysis or visualization, and more, the 7i performs without a hitch.

Fan noise is relatively low but can kick up when doing a resource intensive task for more than 40 minutes straight such as data cleansing, any type of SQL projects or using multi-tabbed Chrome windows.

For the budget-friendly creatives, while Intel’s integrated 3rd generation Iris Xe graphics aren’t going to turn heads when rendering video edited projects, they tend to hold up on basic to medium level Adobe projects such as single-image multi layered editing in Photoshop with limited filtering, 4 minutes to 45-minute-long video edits with a handful or tracks and Essential graphics applied. Again, the export times will crawl on this device but as for real-time scrubbing and editing, the system holds up well. Anyone looking to get into some After Effects fun will need to look elsewhere.

During most workflows, the heat pushed out from the 7i 16 is noticed to the left side of the device which is where the cooling system is housed. The Yoga 7i 16 remained a few degrees cooler than competitors under sustained loads.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 Gen - Yoga Heat

Speaking of sustained loads, Lenovo manages power and performance well when the Yoga 7i is on battery power where performance dips were only perceptible in benchmarks by a handful of points. The Yoga 7i 16 typically shoots to about 4.1GHz and 58W outputs on the start of large tasks and proceeds to stabilize downwards after the laptops core temperature hits about 95 C, which triggers Lenovo’s power management software and ramps down to around 2.6 GHz and 25 W boosts.

While much of the initial software included on the Yoga 7i 16 is bloat and taxed the CPU at startup (uninstall most of it), Lenovo’s power management software has gotten a bit better in 2023 and helps to extend the life of the batter on charge for this device. Battery consumption on the 7i 16 this year has been reduced by about 8 percent and the device runs about an hour and ten minutes longer under similar stress than its 2022 model and even longer than competitors such as the HP Spectre x360 2-in-1 or the Dell XPS 15 which use more resource intensive displays.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 Gen - Yoga Keyboard

Charging speeds varied on the Yoga 7i 16 due to Lenovo’s Vantage software which presumably utilizes some sort of dynamic charging depending on current battery levels and tasks being performed during the charging cycle. Customers should expect normal slow charging to be triggered which can take up to two hours while rapid charge, when triggered, can shorten that cycle by about 30 to 45 minutes.

As for gaming, customers should look to the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i, as this device can handle only a few titles with major resolution tweaks. For the streamers from cloud platforms such as xCloud, the bigger screen will be much appreciated.

Summary

At the end of the day, the 7i is barely considered a spec bump upgrade with performance remaining relatively similar to its previous model and only in certain situations, slightly better than some of its competitors. Lenovo skimped on screen specs to reach a price point many customers will appreciate in the midst of an inflationary economy.

When compared to other devices in the same category, the 7i 16 tends to come in $200 to 300 dollars cheaper in most configurations and offer up a decently calibrated, and wide 16:10 aspect ratio screen that can double as consumption device on the go. If weight, and bleeding edge screen tech aren’t on your shopping bingo card, the Lenovo 7i 16 could serve as your next big screen workstation.

Fix: This Action Won’t Work on Multiple Selections Excel Error

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

The This action won’t work on multiple selections error typically appears when you try to execute an action that is not supported or incompatible with multiple selections in Excel.

In this guide, we will explore the causes behind this error and provide solutions to help you overcome this issue. Let’s get started.

What can I do if this action won’t work on multiple selections?

Before we go to the advanced fixes, here are a few preliminary checks you should do:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Save and exit the Workbook and open it again to perform the action.

Once done, follow the methods mentioned below to fix and avoid the issue.

1. Make the selections properly

  1. Select the data you want to copy on the other sheet.Copy the fields this action won't work on multiple selections
  2. Go to the destination sheet, right-click, and select Paste Special.Paste special
  3. Now choose All to paste the values with formulas.this action won't work on multiple selections paste special
  4. Click OK to confirm the choice.

To avoid this multiple selections error, you need to ensure the selections should be from the same columns or rows.

Check all the sheets on the Workbook to ensure that the data on all the sheets apart from the one you want is unselected.

Also, while pasting the values from multiple regions, and want to copy & paste the formulas as well.

2. Use the Clipboard to paste the data

  1. Click Clipboard.Open Clipboard
  2. Select the data from the desired columns and rows. If the rows and columns are not intersecting, we suggest you repeat the action to add all of them to the Clipboard.
  3. Once all the values are on the Clipboard, go to the sheet where you want to paste the values. You can either click Paste all to them or click on them one by one and paste them on the sheet.paste them all

3. Ungroup the sheets

  1. Right-click a sheet tab and click Select All Sheets on the Excel workbook.Select all this action won't work on multiple selections
  2. Now right-click any sheet tab, and choose Ungroup Sheets.Select all sheets

3. Create a new copy

  1. Right-click a sheet tab and click Select All Sheets on the Excel workbook.Select all this action won't work on multiple selections
  2. Now right-click any sheet tab, and choose the Move or Copy action.Move or Copy this action won't work on multiple selections
  3. You will receive a prompt; select (new book), then place a checkmark next to Create a copy box and click OK.New book

In Excel, an action might fail on multiple selections because some operations only work on single cells or ranges.

If the selected cells have different data types, like numbers and text, it can confuse Excel. Certain features also have limits that prevent them from applying to multiple selections, and mixed formula references can cause conflicts.

So, these are the causes and the solutions that can help you address This action won’t work on multiple selections error message in Excel, allowing you to work efficiently with numerous cells or ranges and accomplish your tasks effectively.

If you are facing issues like Excel not opening on Windows 11, we suggest you check out this informative guide to fix it.

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

Play EA Sports PGA Tour and 3 more games with Xbox Free Play Days

Posted on by Robert Collins

Xbox Free Play Days has a stacked lineup once again this week with four games for subscribers of Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to try out. These games will be available as part of Xbox Free Play Days from Thursday, June 15 through Sunday, June 18. Check out the lineup for this week below.

EA SPORTS™ PGA TOUR™

Take on the greatest challenge in golf, the U.S. Open, at The Los Angeles Country Club, only in EA SPORTS™ PGA TOUR™.
– Play unique challenges and complete quests inspired by the U.S Open.
– Access exciting new content, golf gear drops to customize your golfer, and online tournaments to test your skills on the course.

The exclusive home of the Majors, EA SPORTS™ PGA TOUR™ features Pure Strike for superior golf gameplay powered by ShotLink®, and unrivaled access to the world’s most exclusive golf courses.

Bomber Crew Deluxe Edition

Bomber Crew is a World-war 2 strategic bombing sim, where completing the objective is just as important as keeping your crew alive, as death is permanent!

Take to the skies in this immersive flight simulation where each mission is a high-risk expedition. Manage everything from fuel, ammo, hydraulics and more in your very own physics based Bomber, which can be customized with an array of liveries and paint jobs!

Danger comes from every angle when the wheels are up Enemy fighters, flak guns, poor weather and an array of other perilous dangers await, so ensure your Crew are prepared for each mission correctly, and come back victorious!

OddBallers™

Use brutally unfair tactics to mess with your opponents in this wacky multiplayer party game!

• Play a new type of hard-hitting dodgeball
Dodge, block, and grab whatever you can to throw at the faces of your frenemies. And use the environment to crush opponents with electrical fences, explosive gas tanks, or tennis ball launchers.

• Embrace the absurd
Every arena comes with its own rules and features various frantic mini-games where anything can happen! From last-one-standing games to team-based battles to running for your life wearing a rooster costume, or knocking opponents out with fresh fish.

• Challenge your friends
Test your skills (and friendships) online or locally! Play with up to four players in your living room, or take the matches online and compete against five other contenders.

• Switch up your playing field
From rustic farms to waterfront towns to paradise islands, each environment features more than 20 different arenas and unique mini-games for even more fun.

• Customize your character
Customize your character from head to toe with hundreds of hilarious outfits, haircuts, and more to be the best-looking in the arena. You can even pick your favorite dance move to taunt your fallen foes, and tailor each mini-game to your taste!

Greak: Memories of Azur

Greak: Memories of Azur is a side scrolling single-player game with hand-drawn animations. You will take the role of three siblings: Greak, Adara and Raydel to guide them through the lands of Azur. Alternate control between them and use their unique abilities to escape from the Urlag invasion.

Greak is the name of the main character, and the smallest brother of three. He belongs to a magical race called the Courines, which are currently under the attack of an enemy invasion from a faction called the Urlags.

This battle has been going on for a long time, and the Courines are starting to flee their own lands. Greak’s goal is to reunite with his brother (Raydel) and his sister (Adara) and then escape the lands of Azur by Building an Airship piece by piece.

Throughout the game, you will find each sibling in different scenarios, and once you do, they will join the adventure and help you progress through the game.

Don’t miss this week’s Xbox Free Play Days event

With four eclectic games on the roster there is bound to be something for everyone here. To learn more head over to the Xbox Free Play Days FAQ page.

Featured image via Xbox.com. 

Starfield gets a negative review on Metacritic…months before its release

Posted on by Robert Collins

Bethesda’s upcoming sci-fi RPG Starfield has been in the news quite a lot this week following Sunday’s Starfield Direct. Expectations for the game have soared to stratospheric heights after the 45-minute deep dive showcase, and Xbox has a lot riding on the game’s success when it releases on September 6.

Unfortunately the game’s first review is a negative one. As reported by @PeterOvo5 over on Twitter, a user review has appeared on Metacritic giving Starfield a negative score.

The review comes just shy of three months before the game’s actual release. The user review begins,

Bethesda – because making games that work out of the box is less important than figuring out all the ways to extract as much money form your bank account as possible.”

The user is likely referencing Bethesda Game Studios’ most recent release, Redfall, which launched to a spectacularly poor reception after months of anticipation. Also, the second part of the review’s opening alludes to the possibility of microtransactions in the game. While this has not been confirmed (or ruled out), some have pointed to Starfield’s ESRB rating, which notes “In-game Purchases,” as proof.

Starfield Screen Shot 2

The user goes on to disparage Bethesda Game Studios director Todd Howard. The review seems to be no longer viewable on Metacritic at the time of this writing, although the negative review is still noted on the user review page in the user score distribution field. The info box displays a message saying,

There are no user reviews yet – It is not possible to submit a review prior to this game’s official release.”

Starfield
Starfield
Download
QR-Code

Starfield
Developer:
Bethesda Softworks
Price:
Free

Via Gamerficial. 

How to Disable Check Boxes in File Explorer

Posted on by Taiba Hasan

Many of our readers have been annoyed by check boxes that appear on each file or folder icon in File Explorer. Check boxes help you select multiple files and folders, especially on touchscreen devices. 

However, this feature is running the user experience of most Windows users who prefer using the Shift and Ctrl shortcut to select multiple files/folders at a time.  

If you are one of those users who want to remove the checkboxes in File Explorer, walk through this guide to find out the proven solutions. 

How to disable folder check boxes in File Explorer? 

1. Disable item checkboxes

  1. Launch the File Explorer using the Windows + E shortcut key. 
  2. Click the View option located on the top menu bar to reveal the related settings drop-down. remove check box in file explorer
  3. Select Show from the dropdown menu and then click the Item check boxes option from the sub-menu if it was checked previously. remove check box in file explorer

Now exit the File Explorer window and upon re-launch, the check boxes next to folders will not appear anymore. 

2. Modify the Folder Options settings

  1. Launch the File Explorer using the Windows + E shortcut. 
  2. Click on the More icon (three horizontal dots) located at the top menu bar and select Options from the drop-down menu. Launch the File Explorer using the Windows + E shortcut key. Click the View option located on the top menu bar to reveal the related settings drop-down. remove check box in file explorer Select Show from the dropdown menu and then click the Item check boxes option from the sub-menu if it was checked previously. remove check box in file explorer
  3. Switch to the View tab of the Folder Options windows and scroll down the Advanced settings section. 
  4. Uncheck the box preceding the Use check boxes to select items and click Apply to save the changes and OK to exit the window. Launch the File Explorer using the Windows + E shortcut key. Click the View option located on the top menu bar to reveal the related settings drop-down. remove check box in file explorer Select Show from the dropdown menu and then click the Item check boxes option from the sub-menu if it was checked previously. remove check box in file explorer

3. Modify the registry 

Note icon NOTE
Editing the registry is a risky task which is not done carefully can render your PC broken. As a precautionary step, it is recommended to back up your registry before you perform the following steps.
  1. Use the Windows + R shortcut to launch the Run dialog box, type the following command in the text box and hit the Enter key. regedit remove check box in File Explorer
  2. Expand the keys in the registry editor window to navigate to the following path. Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
  3. Find AutoCheckSelect in the right section and if not found, right-click anywhere, and choose New followed by DWORD (32-bit) from the context menu. 
  4. Rename the DWORD as AutoCheckSelect. 
  5. Now right-click AutoCheckSelect and choose Modify from the context menu. remove check box in file explorer
  6. Assign 0 to the Value data field and press OK to save the changes. remove check box in file explorer

If the previous two methods did not sort out the issue, you can explicitly edit the registry to remove the check box from File Explorer.

4. Create a new administrator account

  1. Log into your administrator account and use the Windows + I shortcut to launch the Settings app. 
  2. Switch to Accounts from the left sidebar and then select Other users (Family & other users in some versions) from the right section.
  3. Next, press the Add account button located next to Add other user option. 
  4. Click I don’t have this person’s sign-in information on the new pop-up window. 
  5. Next, select the Add a user without a Microsoft account option. 
  6. Finally, on the next page, provide the username and confirm the password by entering it twice.
  7. After the new user account is created, access the Other Users section once again and click the newly created account name. 
  8. Click the Change account type button located under the revealed settings and select the Administrator option on the popup that appears. 
  9. Now log out of the current account you’re logged into and sign in to your newly created administrative account. Hopefully, the problem would be resolved.

Creating a new user account with administrative rights will remove the check box in File Explorer if it persisted because of a corrupt user account. 

How to disable checkboxes in File Explorer on a convertible laptop? 

  1. Switch to the laptop mode on the 2 in 1 laptop. 
  2. Use the Windows + R shortcut to launch the Run dialog box, type the following in the text box and press OK to access the Registry Editor. regedit remove check box in file explorer
  3. Navigate to the ImmersiveShell key in the registry editor window by pasting the following path. Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ImmersiveShell
  4. Here, right-click DeviceConvertible in the right section and choose Modify from the context menu. 
  5. Assign 0 in the Value data field and press OK to save the changes. 
  6. Now exit the registry editor window and sign out of your account. Wait for some time and sign back into Windows. You will see that the check boxes no longer appear near files and folders in File Explorer. 

Disabling the tablet mode or touchscreen feature on your dual laptop will successfully remove the check box from File Explorer.

That’s all in this quick guide to disable the check boxes in File Explorer on Windows PC.

Before you leave, you may want to fix the file explorer search feature if it runs into issues from time to time. 

In case of any comments or feedback, do reach out to us in the comments section. 

The European launch of Google’s AI chatbot, Bard, has been postponed due to privacy concerns

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

According to a recent report from Politico, the launch of Google’s generative AI chatbot, Bard, in the European Union has been delayed due to privacy concerns. The chatbot was previously expanded to over 180 countries worldwide but did not include the EU.

Irish Data Protection Commission Deputy Commissioner Graham Doyle noted that Google had been preparing to introduce Bard in the region, but this plan has been postponed for the time being.

We said in May that we wanted to make Bard more widely available, including in the European Union, and that we would do so responsibly, after engagement with experts, regulators, and policymakers., a Google spokesperson said, as reported by Politico.

The Commission has stated that Google did not furnish sufficient information concerning the measures it would undertake to safeguard the privacy of EU citizens. This lack of transparency has reportedly caused a delay in the launch of Google’s Bard in the region. The Irish regulator is conducting an ongoing examination of Bard and has announced that the launch will no longer happen this week.

The regulatory body in Ireland has sought clarification from the company on its adherence to the EU’s data protection regulations and is currently awaiting a comprehensive assessment and response.

In a similar vein, OpenAI’s ChatGPT also faced challenges in the EU, causing the CEO to consider withdrawing the product. Additionally, Microsoft’s Bing AI, powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4, is accessible in Europe, but the EU is examining ChatGPT and other AI products through a dedicated task force.

In March, Google Bard attracted criticism due to claims that it was trained using users’ data from Gmail, posing potential privacy risks. The chatbot was developed to compete with the rising popularity of ChatGPT and Bing Chat and offers similar features. However, since Artificial Intelligence relies on data sets, there are some major privacy concerns surrounding its use.

Via Verge

GTA 5 gets a huge update with visual improvements for Xbox Series X|S

Posted on by Robert Collins

Grand Theft Auto V is now nearly a decade old, but that hasn’t stopped Rockstar Games from giving the open-world action adventure a massive update which is now live.

Update 1.67, also known as the San Andreas Mercenaries Update, brings a whole gamut of improvements in addition to some new content. As per the patch notes page on Rockstar’s website,

The San Andreas Mercenaries update adds new Story Missions, Freemode content, updates to the Smuggler Hangar business, a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S exclusive Career Progress feature, as well as a range of experience improvements and creator updates. 

 

Gta 5 Screenshot1

Many of the new features pertain specifically to the online aspect of the game. As stated in the patch notes, a current-gen Career Progress feature has been added for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Career Progress has 4 challenge tiers that “gives access to a range of challenges across GTA Online and provides exclusive rewards for players to earn.”

There are also new vehicles (7 of them all-new the game), new cosmetics and more. There are also some visual upgrades for the current-gen consoles, including raytracing performance improvements. Specific to the Xbox Series X|S version is a fix that “Improved the lighting fidelity seen through the windows during the Story Mode Mission Dead Man Walking on Xbox Series X|S.”

Rumors of the next installment of the franchise—Grand Theft Auto 6—have been hot lately. It has been reported that it will be the most expensive video game ever made.

Grand Theft Auto V (Xbox Series X|S)
Grand Theft Auto V (Xbox Series X|S)
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Grand Theft Auto V (Xbox Series X|S)
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Via Gaming Bible.

Featured image via Xbox.com. 

What is Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime?

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Several Windows 11 users have asked us that when they head over to Programs and Features inside Control Panel, they see the Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime listed.

They are confused as to what this does on their PC and whether they should keep it or remove it. In this guide, we will give you all the details you need to know about Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime. Let us get right into it.

What does Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime do?

Chances are that you might have heard about Microsoft .NET Framework and use it on your computer. .Net library contains shared codes for developers.

Using these codes, developers can infuse functions without the need to write codes from scratch. Moreover, any program written in .Net needs to have .Net Runtime installed.

You should also make sure to keep the Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime up to date to ensure all associated apps run smoothly. The Desktop Runtime basically helps you to run the existing Windows desktop applications.

Using the Desktop Runtime, a program interacts with the computing resources it needs to work. They aren’t required to be installed separately on your PC.

Runtime also works when you start a program on your PC. This means, when a program is running on your PC, it is a runtime for that program. The .NET Core is utilized to build command-line modern websites, applications, and other services.

It was also known as a redistributable package or end-user runtime, however, with version 5.0 it is listed as Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime within the Programs and Features section on Control Panel.

Which version should you download?

Another confusing aspect of the .Net is which version should you download. End users need to only download the Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime.

So, to clarify this doubt, if you need .Net 3.5 or older, you should go for .Net 3.5. And in case, you want .Net 3.5 or higher, you should go for .Net 5.0.

How to check which Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime version is installed?

1. Use Command Prompt

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Command Prompt and open it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter: reg query "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Net Framework Setup\NDP" /s
  4. Check the version.

This is the easiest way to know which version of the Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime you have currently installed on your computer.

2. Use Windows PowerShell

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Windows PowerShell and open it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter.reg query "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Net Framework Setup\NDP" /s
  4. Check the version.

Apart from using Command Prompt, you can also use Windows PowerShell to check the version of the Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime on your computer.

3. Check the version in Registry

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the below path and press Enter. Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft.NETFramework
  4. Expand the NET Framework Setup folder.
  5. Expand the NDP folder.
  6. Click on any of the versions and then click on the Client folder.
  7. Click on the Version registry entry to know the installed version.

Using the Registry editor to know about the currently installed version of the Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime could be a lengthy task, but it gets the job done.

How can I uninstall Windows Desktop Runtime?

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Select Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime version that you wish to uninstall and click the Uninstall button at the top.
  5. Follow the on-screen process to remove the program from your computer.
  6. Reboot your PC.

Our guide explains how you can fix the corrupt registry on your PC. You should also check out our guide that gives you 4 methods to restore a registry without a backup.

That is it from us in this guide. You should check out our dedicated guide that explains how you can easily resolve the Runtime error 217 on your Windows computer.

We also have a guide that lists some solutions that will help you resolve the Runtime error 3709 on your Windows PC.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below if this guide helped you in understanding what Windows Desktop Runtime is and how to check the version installed on your PC.

Unable to Load Library dbdata.dll: 5 Ways to Fix It

Posted on by Taiba Hasan

Dbdata.dll is a Dynamic link library (DLL) file, which is generally a part of Ubisoft games such as Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, Watch Dogs, and others.

This DLL ensures that is used to ensure that the game works properly and the system resources are shared concurrently. Lately, Many PC gamers have been encountering the Unable to load library dbdata.dll error when trying to launch any Ubisoft game on their PC. 

Why do I encounter unable to load library dbdata.dll error? 

The dbdata.dll error can show up for several reasons. Let’s check out the most probable ones:

  • Corrupt system files – Essential system field can become corrupt for several reasons, like incomplete Windows updation.  
  • Malware infection – Viruses and malware infections mess up the system and modify the files, which can no longer be retrieved by Windows. 
  • Incomplete installation – If the game installation was interrupted somehow, the dbdata.dll file might have become corrupt, so it cannot be loaded. 
  • App interference – Third-party antivirus software or Windows Defender Firewall may flag the DLL as malicious and block it for security reasons.  

Now that we know what is causing this problem, let’s apply the solutions below to fix it.

How do I fix the Unable to load library dbdata.dll error? 

Trying the following workarounds is recommended before you proceed with the complex methods listed after that.  

If the Unable to load library dbdata.dll still shows up during the game launch, try the solutions listed below in the given order.

1. Use a DLL fixer tool

The dbdata.dll library could not be loaded error primarily arises due to incompatibility between the Ubisoft game and Windows operating system. 

DLL-related errors are hard to get around in general, especially if you are a novice user and don’t have an idea about system-level errors. In this situation, it’s advisable to seek help from a robust DLL fixer tool, available in the market.

2. Repair the system files

  1. Press the Windows key to bring up the Start menu, type cmd on top, and select the Run as administrator option from the result section. Unable to Load Library dbdata.dll
  2. Now type or paste the following command and press the Enter key to initiate the SFC scan. sfc /scannow Unable to Load Library dbdata.dll
  3. Wait patiently until the SFC scan repairs the affected system files. After this, type or paste the following command and press the Enter key to run the DISM scan: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth Unable to Load Library dbdata.dll
  4. When the scanning process is complete, reboot your PC and see if the unable to load library dbdata.dll error persists. 

The SFC and DISM utilities diagnose and repair the protected system files, which might fix the missing DLL error on Windows. 

3. Verify the integrity of the game 

Note icon NOTE
Before proceeding with the given steps, exit the game and disable the real-time protection feature of antivirus software to avoid it from restricting the verification process. 
  1. Launch the Ubisoft Connect app on your Windows PC and log into your gaming account. 
  2. Navigate to the Games tab from the top to view the gaming library. Unable to Load Library dbdata.dll
  3. Locate the game affected by the issue and click the downward arrow icon. 
  4. Click the View game details option present in the listed options. 
  5. Click the Properties section present under the game’s title and click Verify files button on the right of the window. Unable to Load Library dbdata.dll
  6. Once the verification process is completed, you will receive a notification about it. Then launch the affected game and see if the unable to load library dbdata.dll still restricts the game launch. 

4. Allow the game through the firewall 

  1. Launch the Start menu by pressing the Windows key, type control panel in the search bar, and press Enter to quickly access the Contol Panel. Unable to load library dbdata.dll
  2. Change View by drop-down to Category and select System and Security option. Unable to load library dbdata.dll
  3. Click the Windows Defender Firewall option. 
  4. Click the Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall located on the left pane. Unable to load library dbdata.dll
  5. Press the Change settings button. Unable to load library dbdata.dll
  6. Scroll down the list of apps to locate your game. If the game is missing, click the Allow another app button. 
  7. On the next window that pops up, browse to the location of its installation folder, select its .EXE file, and press the Add button. 
  8. Enable the checkbox listed under the Private and Public section and press the OK button to save the changes. Unable to load library dbdata.dll

Firewalls often block certain games and apps from launching on the PC, so explicitly allowing the game should help. 

5. Manually install the DLL

If none of these methods help, you should consider downloading the dbdata.dll file from online sources as your last resort. Avoid downloading the DLLs from shady sources and go for trusted websites like DLL Files, which offer verified downloads. 

After the download is complete, you need to paste the DLL into the installation directory of the affected game. You can also place it in the following folder to make the DLL file universally accessible. C:\Windows\System32

Now restart your PC to make the new DLL file detectable by your system. Then, launch the game and see if the dbdata.dll file is successfully loaded by the game you intend to play. 

That’s all in this guide! Hope the issue you were facing while playing the game is resolved completely. 

If you run into several DLL missing errors on your computer, refer to this guide to check out the possible solutions. As for a specific issue encountered by several users lately, our guide on the DevIl.dll library error: Effective solutions to resolve it is what you are looking for.

Which of the following methods did the trick? Do let us know in the comments section.