How to Update Graphics Driver in Windows 11: 5 Simple Ways

Posted on by Cesar Cadenas

Today, we’ll show you how to update your graphics driver in Windows 11 and get the best out of it.

You must update your graphics frequently to have the most optimal performance possible. Not only for gaming and graphic design, but also for day-to-day simple PC tasks.

Check out the 5 methods explained below.

How do I update my graphics drivers?

Here’s a quick video summary. Much more details and step by step instructions, below.

1. Using a third-party driver updater

To update your display driver in Windows 11, you can always rely on specialized driver updating software. These tools allow you to run a scan and quickly identify the driver you need.

Hence, this solution is safe and can guarantee increased system performance and up-to-date drivers without causing system malfunctions.

2. Using built-in tools

2.1 Check what graphics drivers you already have

  1. Click on the magnifying glass icon to bring up the search bar.
  2. Type in System Information and click on the first entry you see to open the System Information app.system-info update graphics driver windows 11
  3. Under System Summary, click on Components.components update graphics driver windows 11
  4. Then click on Display.
  5. Locate the Adapter Type and Adapter Description to see your graphics card model. In this example, the graphics card comes from the virtual machine used, whereas you typically see an Intel card.adapter update graphics driver windows 11

2.2 Update the graphics drivers via Settings

    Updating the graphics drivers though Settings it’s easier with the following step-by-step guide:

    1. Bring up the Start menu and click on the Settings icon.

  2. 2. Click on the Windows Update tab on the left side of the Settings menu.

  3. 3. Select Advanced options.

  4. 4. Click Optional updates.

  5. 5. Click on the top drop-down menu to see if any driver updates are available.

  6. 6. If there are any updates, click the update to highlight them.

  7. 7. Then click the Download & install button.

  8. 8. The driver will begin downloading and will finish after a few minutes.

  9. 9. Press the Restart now button to finish the installation.

3. Update the graphics driver using Device Manager

You can easily update the graphics driver Windows 11 using the built-in Device Manager. This tool can automatically search for drivers for your GPU, to ensure you are always up to date with the newest updates.

1. Open up the search bar in the lower left side of your screen and type device manager.

update graphics driver device manager

2. In the Device Manager, click on Display adapters.

update graphics driver display adapters

3. Here you will find your Windows 11 computer’s graphics card or cards.

device manager update graphics driver 11

4. To update a graphic card from the list, right-click on it and select Update driver.

gpu update graphics driver windows 11

5. A window will appear asking how you want to search for available drivers.

6. Select Search automatically for driver to make it easy.

7. At that point, the Device Manager will automatically download and install the drivers.

8. The window may tell you that the best drivers are already installed. In that case, just close the window.

update graphics driver windows 11 step

The built-in Device Manager can easily update the graphics driver Windows 11. This tool can automatically search for drivers for your GPU to ensure you are always up to date with the newest updates.

4. Update the graphics driver with external official tools

4.1 Updating NVIDIA graphics driver

  1. Go to Nvidia GeForce Experience’s website to download drivers for Windows 11.
  2. On the GeForce Experience page, click the Download Now button.
  3. Click on Save File in the small window.
  4. Go to where the file was downloaded and double-click it to install.
  5. In the wizard, select Agree and Install.
  6. Create an account for GeForce Experience.
  7. In GeForce Experience, click on Drivers at the top.
  8. Click on Check For Updates in the corner to see if there’s anything available.
  9. For other drivers, click on Download.
  10. After a short time, the drivers will download.
  11. You can click either Express Installation or Custom Installation.
  12. The installation will take a few minutes.

4.2 Updating Intel graphics driver

  1. Go to Intel Graphics Driver.
  2. On the next page, click Get started.
  3. Click Download now to download the Intel Driver & Support Assistant.
  4. Click Save File in the small window that appears.
  5. Go to the location of the downloaded app and double-click it.
  6. Click Install and run through the installation wizard.
  7. After installation, click Restart to finish.
  8. Open the Intel Driver and Support Assistant app.
  9. In the app, select Support on the left-hand side.
  10. Select Download Graphics Driver to download the latest drivers.
  11. You will go back to the Drivers and Software page. Select Get started again.
  12. Here you will now see all the drivers available for download. You can choose which ones you want or select Download all, which is what this guide will select.
  13. Give it a few minutes to download.
  14. Click Install on a driver.
  15. A small window will appear, asking you if you want to upgrade. Click Yes.
  16. Run through the installation wizard.
  17. It may ask you to choose a setup type. Select Typically, or you can customize the installation.
  18. Select Finish to complete the installation.

For AMD drivers, you can check out our post on how to update the AMD graphics drivers on Windows 11.

You can learn more about the full Intel GPU update process by reading the detailed guide on updating Intel graphics drivers.

5. Reinstalling the graphics driver

  1. Return to the Device Manager and click on Display adapters. In this example, the guide will reinstall Intel UHD Graphics 630, but the instructions are the same for all drivers.
  2. Right-click on the graphics card and select Uninstall device.
  3. A small window will appear. Click the box next to Attempt to remove the driver for this device.
  4. If you want to manage the driver separately, click Device by the driver in the small window.
  5. Click the Uninstall button.
  6. Now head over to the official download page of the driver’s respective manufacturer. This guide will go to Intel’s page, but there’s also AMD and NVIDIA.
  7. Locate the drivers you uninstalled. In this case, it’s Intel UHD Graphics 630.
  8. Locate the drivers and click Download.
  9. Click Save File when the small window appears.
  10. After downloading, go to where the file is located and double-click it.
  11. In the small window that appears, click Run.
  12. A graphic driver installer will appear. Begin the installation.
  13. Run through the installation wizard and the instructions of your respective driver.
  14. After installing, restart your computer.
  15. You can check if the installation was successful by going back to the Device Manager and seeing if the Windows 11 graphics driver problem is solved.

That’s about it. Now your graphics card show work seamlessly with your up to date drivers. If you want your audio hardware to work well too, consider updating your audio drivers too.

Windows 10 may be out of style, but Windows 11 computers are expensive so you may be holding onto that old laptop. Until the day arrives when you buy a Windows 11 machine, we recommend learning how to update drivers on a Windows 10 computer.

Before you go, check our GetMyDrivers review to learn how to update all your drivers quickly and automatically.

These methods should help you if the GeForce Experience driver downloads but doesn’t install, so don’t hesitate to try them.

Feel free to comment below if you have any questions about other Windows 11 apps. Also, leave comments about what reviews you’d like to see or information on other Windows 11 features.

Event ID 4724: An Attempt was Made to Reset an Account [Fix]

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Understanding Event ID 4724 and its implications are crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of user accounts within a Windows environment.

In this guide, we will explore the Event ID in detail, shedding light on its meaning and significance. We will investigate the reasons behind its occurrence and recommend actions to address the problem.

What is Event ID 4724?

Event ID 4724 is an information event that indicates a user’s attempt to reset an account password for another account.

This entry provides detailed information about the account reset, including the account name, the user performing the reset, and the date and time of the reset attempt.

It can help administrators identify who initiated the account reset, which can be useful for compliance, security auditing, and troubleshooting.

Why the Event ID 4724 occurs?

There could be several factors causing the event ID 4724; some of the common ones are:

  • Routine password maintenance – The Event ID may appear due to system administrators or IT personnel conducting standard password maintenance activities.
  • User account compromise – It indicates an attempt to reset an account that has been compromised or is suspected of being compromised.
  • User account lockout – An administrator may initiate a password reset to restore account access when a user’s account becomes locked due to multiple failed login attempts.
  • Privileged user actions – When a privileged user, such as a system administrator, resets the password for another user account as part of their role and responsibilities, it can trigger the error.

Now that you know the causes of the Event ID, let’s dive into the solutions to fix it.

What can I do if Event ID 4724 appears?

1. Verify the legitimacy

  1. Press the Windows key, type event viewer, and click Open.Event Viewer open event id 4724
  2. Go to Windows Logs, then Security.
  3. On the right pane, you will get the list of events logged.
  4. Locate Event ID 4724, select, and go to General. Check the account name and the user performing the reset with your organization’s records or policies.Check the details of the Event ID
  5. If the account reset looks suspicious, you can conduct a thorough investigation to determine if any security breaches or compromises have occurred.

With the solution above, you may check if the account reset attempt was authorized and performed by an administrator or privileged user. It’s the first step in dealing with Event ID 4724.

2. Assess the account activity & take immediate action

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Accounts, and click Sign-in options.Settings - Sign in options event id 4724
  3. Click Password and then Change.Change password
  4. Now enter the current password and click Next.Enter current password event id 4724
  5. Enter the new password and confirm the password, then click Next.Change password event id 4724
  6. Click Finish to complete.Finish event id 4724

To understand more about the account, check the recent login history and activity logs to identify any unusual or suspicious behavior. If you see signs of unauthorized access, changes to account settings, or unusual login patterns, the account has been compromised.

If the account belongs to a user, you must promptly inform them about it. You need to ask them to change the password of their user account; follow the steps above to change the password of the account.

So, these are the things you can do if you see Event ID 4724 in the Event Viewer. If the account reset attempt indicates a potential security breach or compromise, report the incident to the appropriate IT or security teams and escalate it for further investigation and remediation.

To monitor all events happening on the computer, you must know all about Event Viewer and how to use it.

Feel free to provide any information, tips, and your experience with the subject in the comments section below.

How to draw on a PowerPoint slide

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Want to draw on a PowerPoint slide? We’ve got some good news: Microsoft has responded to extensive user feedback by enhancing the drawing functionality within the app. Now, users of the web version can enjoy an improved drawing experience, offering features such as the ability to undo and redo actions, access to a digital ruler, and the availability of temporary ink for temporary markings on slides.

As we’ve noted from Microsoft’s official release note, Redmond officials are also working to bring the ability to partially erase strokes using the Point Eraser tool, which will be available in the second half of 2023 to everyone, and many more. 

Drawing on PowerPoint slides allows you to enhance your presentations with visually engaging elements. Whether you want to highlight important points, create diagrams, or add a few artistic flairs here and there, drawing on PowerPoint makes your presentation a lot easier. 

So, would you like to take this feature for a spin? Not all users have this feature opted by default, so you’d need to manually activate it from the settings. Here’s how.

How to enable the feature to draw on a PowerPoint slide

1. Open a PowerPoint file (.pptx)

2. Double-click on Home, then click Customize the ribbon.

3. Select All Tabs.

4. Scroll down until you find Ink. Click on it, then Add, then OK. 

5. Click on Pen to start drawing with your mouse or your stylus pen.

In the meantime, we’ve also reported that the web version of the app just welcomed a new feature that lets users insert a video in their presentation, so it’s worth checking out. 

To learn more about Office, don’t miss our guide on how to insert an Excel file into PowerPoint as an icon.

Have you tried the draw feature on PowerPoint slides? Let us know in the comments!

Microsoft really doesn’t want you to use Chrome at all

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

We all know about the competition between Microsoft and Google, so there’s no need in going into that any further.

Even though Googe’s Chrome browser is a lot more popular than Edge, the tech giant is constantly looking for new ways to make users jump ship.

Even though, in February, Microsoft pushed out full-sized ads for its Edge web browser when people used Edge to download Google’s Chrome browser, it was apparently not enough.

And, since we’re on the topic of Chrome, remember that we can show you how to add thumbnails in Chrome, or maybe how to use Chrome Reader mode.

Using Edge to search for Chrome will not yield any results

We don’t know if you heard yet, but there are online reports that indicate a new Microsoft campaign to get users to stop using Chrom and switch to Edge.

Apparently, when you now type Chrome in the Edge search bar, the browser will generate what looks like a Bing Chat AI answer. 

Yes, instead of being taken to the Chrome download page, you will now be given a lecture on why Edge is actually better at its job.

These reports indicate that this answer was received by both people in different parts of the US, as well as outside the US.

So, now the question isn’t about the scale of the operation, but about the audacity and the lengths Microsoft is willing to go sabotage the competition.

Thus, the search didn’t provide an answer about Chrome, as it was an ad about Bing search, with the headline Bing: The Search Engine That Does More Than Just Search.

Clearly, Microsoft decided to put in an ad for Bing as an AI search answer instead of giving an honest search result when using Edge to find info about Chrome.

As you would have imagined, the Redmond company was asked about this blatant ad masquerading as an AI chat search result.

And, Microsoft’s product marketing director Jason Fischel offered a response that really didn’t please a lot of people, to say the least.

We often experiment with new features, UX, and behaviors to test, learn, and improve experiences for our customers. These tests are often brief and do not necessarily represent what is ultimately or broadly provided to customers.

The issue has been solved, apparently, and you will no longer receive that embarrassing ad when searching for Chrome from your Edge browser.

It seems that the tech giant continues to try to push out ads for Bing in ways that look and feel like the company is desperate to promote Bing search in any way possible.

What are your thoughts on the matter? You can leave your opinions in the comments section located right below.

Runtime Error 62: Input Past End of File [Fix]

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Multiple users have reported getting the Runtime error 62 with an error message that reads Input past end of file. This issue basically happens when Windows fails to load or crashes while running.

In this guide, we will share with you all the details about what the Runtime error 62 is and what causes this problem along with the solutions. Let us check out the fixes.

What is Runtime error 62?

The Runtime error 62 Input past end of file error can appear almost randomly. The main two reasons for this issue are because of a virus infection or the deletion of important system files. This will pop up when the Windows OS is running.

Do note that there are various common reasons that could trigger this error, some of which are listed below:

  • Corrupt or missing system files – The Runtime error 62 can pop up when an important Windows system file is corrupt or missing from your PC.
  • Your PC is infected with a virus – Virus or malware infection can duplicate or delete many of the important files on your PC.
  • Program glitches – The issue could also arise from a bug or glitch in the recently installed application or updated program.
  • Bad graphics driver – Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers are also responsible for the Runtime error 62 on a Windows PC.

Let us now check out the solutions that will help you resolve the Runtime error 62 Input past end of file error.

How can I fix the Runtime error 62?

1. Re-install the program

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Click on the program and hit the Uninstall button.
  5. Click OK to confirm your actions.
  6. Restart your PC.
  7. Visit the official website of the program you just uninstalled.
  8. Download the file and install it on your PC.

Re-installing the problematic software brings two benefits. First, you are getting rid of the program that might be missing some important files, thus, giving you Runtime error 62.

And second, when you install the program from the official website, you will be installing the latest version of the program, which might have fixed the underlying bug causing the issue.

2. Scan your PC for viruses

  1. To open the Start menu press the Win key.
  2. Type security and open Windows Security.
  3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  4. Click on Quick Scan.
  5. You can also select Scan options and click on Full scan for a deep scan.
  6. Apply the prompted fixes and restart your PC.

You should make sure that the Windows Security tool is enabled on your PC to protect your PC from viruses. Also, run a scan using the tool and remove any found viruses.

Often it is proven to be not as effective as dedicated antivirus software. You can take a look at our guide which lists a compilation of the best antivirus software to safeguard your PC.

3. Run SFC and DISM scans

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Command Prompt and run it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter: sfc /scannowsfc scan
  4. Let the process fix the corrupt system files.
  5. Type the below commands and press Enter after each one: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  6. Reboot your PC.

Fixing the corrupt system files will help you resolve the Runtime error 62. Also, this will make sure that you do not come across any such problem in the future.

In any case, this command requires some technical knowledge and it doesn’t guarantee the results. Thus, we suggest you utilize a leading PC repair tool to detect and fix corrupted files on Windows PCs.

4. Reinstall the graphics driver

  1. To open the Start menu, press the Win key.
  2. Type Device Manager and open it.
  3. Expand the Display adapters section.
  4. Double-click on your GPU.
  5. Select the Driver tab.
  6. Click on the Update driver option.
  7. Select Search automatically for drivers option.

Many users have reported that they were able to resolve the Runtime error 62 on their Windows 11 PCs by simply updating the graphics driver on their PCs. You should also try out this solution and check if this helps or not.

5. Reinstall Runtime Libraries

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Click on the Microsoft Redistributable Package and hit the Uninstall button.
  5. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the latest Redistributable Package and install it.

You should also make sure to install the latest Windows update as in Windows 11, the redistributable packages are bundled as a part of the Windows update.

That is it from us in this guide. Let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions fixed the Runtime error 62 on your Windows 11 computer.

How to Disable OneNote on Startup?

Posted on by Taiba Hasan

OneNote is a powerful and flexible resource that allows you to quickly gather information and create notes.

However, the OneNote app greatly annoys Windows users as it automatically starts upon system reboot and consumes valuable system resources required for essential programs. 

If you do not want OneNote to interfere with other programs and load automatically, you can disable the startup process of the OneNote program in different ways discussed in this guide. 

How do I disable OneNote on Startup? 

1. Disable OneNote from Task Manager 

  1. Right-click the Windows icon on the taskbar and select Task Manager from the Quick Links menu. disable onenote startup
  2. Switch to the Startup tab in the Task Manager window. 
  3. Select the Send to OneNote Tool process and click the Disable button located on the bottom right. disable onenote startup
  4. Exit the Task Manager and reboot your Windows PC to apply the changes. 

You can disable OneNote from the Task Manager window to prevent it from automatically launching upon startup. 

2. Delete the OneNote shortcut from the startup folder

  1. Launch the Run dialog box using the Windows + R shortcut.
  2. Type the following command in the startup and press the OK key to directly access the Startup folder of your user account. Shell:startup disable onenote startup
  3. Locate and right-click the Send to OneNote shortcut in the list of shortcuts and click the Trash icon in the context menu. disable onenote startup
  4. Now reboot your Windows PC to apply the changes and upon startup, OneNote will not launch automatically anymore. 

Deleting the OneNote shortcut from the startup folder of the user account you’re currently logged into will disable OneNote on Startup. 

3. Remove OneNote from the notification area

  1. Click the Up arrow icon on your Windows PC’s bottom right to reveal the system tray. 
  2. Right-click the OneNote icon in your System Tray and choose the Open OneNote option. disable onenote startup
  3. Click the File option located on the top ribbon of the OneNote app. disable onenote startup
  4. Select Options located at the bottom of the left sidebar. 
  5. Next, switch to the Display option from the left menu bar of the OneNote Options window and uncheck the box for the Place OneNote icon in the notification area of the taskbar option located in the right section. disable onenote startup
  6. Press OK to save the changes.

Removing the OneNote icon from the notification area ensures that the tool does not make an appearance every time you reboot your Windows computer. 

4. Repair Microsoft Office 

  1. Make sure your PC has access to a stable internet connection. 
  2. Launch the Settings app using the Windows + I shortcut key combination. 
  3. Switch to the Apps settings from the left sidebar and then select Installed apps from the right section. disable onenote startup
  4. Scroll down the installed apps and look for Microsoft 365 app.
  5. Click the Menu icon (three dots) located next to it, and select Modify option from the sub-menu. disable onenote startup
  6. Press Yes on the User Action Control panel that appears. 
  7. On the next window that pops up, select the Online Repair option and press the Repair button on the button right. disable onenote startup
  8. Wait patiently for the online repair process to get completed. Once done, restart your Windows PC and you will no longer see OneNote on startup. 

If OneNote still appears despite having disabled the automatic startup of the OneNote app, there could be some issues with the Microsoft Office suite. Performing online repair of Microsoft Office should resolve the underlying problem.  

That’s all in this guide! You can implement these methods in the given order to disable OneNote from starting up automatically upon restart. 

Before you leave, you may want to fix OneNote app if it does not respond and crashes repeatedly out of nowhere. 

In case you need further help to disable OneNote on Startup, feel free to drop us a message below. 

2 Ways to Recover Uninstalled Programs on Windows 10

Posted on by Afam Onyimadu

Apps are the most essential part of a computer. They make it possible to carry out numerous functions. However, a few things may cause you to uninstall specific applications. If done incorrectly, you may wonder how to recover uninstalled programs on your Windows 10 devices.

So, we break it down in this article and show you all the practical ways to get back applications after a delete.

What happens when I uninstall a program on Windows 10?

  • Removal of program files – The program’s files are deleted from your computer’s hard disk by the uninstaller. This comprises all program-related files, such as libraries, configuration, executables, and other related files.
  • Deletion of shortcuts – The program’s taskbar icons, desktop shortcuts, and Start menu entries are usually eliminated. As a result of the uninstalled program’s references being removed, this keeps your system orderly.
  • Registry modifications – The Windows Registry, a centralized database that the uninstaller may alter houses settings and configuration data for the operating system and installed apps.
  • Removal of additional components – Some applications could set up extras like system services, plugins, or device drivers. The uninstaller could eliminate these components if they are no longer needed.
  • Reversal of settings and configurations – The uninstaller can sometimes reverse any modifications made to the system during the installation of the software. By doing this, you may be confident that your system will reset to how it was before the software was installed.

How do I recover uninstalled programs on Windows 10?

1. Use a Specialized data recovery tool

  1. Download and install the MiniTools (there are many alternative solutions to MiniTool, and the steps are similar).
  2. Launch the app, select This PC, click Devices, and select the uninstalled application’s drive.
    how to recover uninstalled programs on windows 10
  3. Wait while it scans the drive for deleted data.
  4. Go through the list of files of programs and select what you need to restore.
    how to recover uninstalled programs on windows 10
  5. Finally, click on Save.

Using specialized recovery tools is our recommended way of recovering your deleted programs on Windows 10.

Most of these tools are not free, and after downloading and installing them, you can recover programs in just a few clicks.

2. Use System Restore

  1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
    how to recover uninstalled programs on windows 10
  2. Select Choose a different restore point and hit Next.
    how to recover uninstalled programs on windows 10
  3. Select a restore point and click Next.
    how to recover uninstalled programs on windows 10
  4. Finally, click Finish.

Remember, you may get help from the application’s publisher if System Restore or a data recovery tool doesn’t work to restore the removed program.

Also, create a system restore point regularly. This will allow you to restore your computer to a previous point if you accidentally uninstall a program. Note that if you use the System Recovery option, you may not have access to applications before the drive was formatted.

And that is how to recover uninstalled programs on Windows 10. So, you can now recover files no matter how long ago they were deleted or uninstalled as long as you still have access to the drive.

Lastly, let us know in the comments if other ways exist to restore your uninstalled applications.

Microsoft has temporarily disabled the Share Chat button on Bing Chat

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Bing Chat’s share feature has been temporarily disabled by Microsoft, preventing users from sharing their conversations with friends via email and social media platforms. The details of the issues that led to the removal of the feature remain uncertain.

When asked about the absence of the share button on Bing Chat yesterday, CEO Mikhail Parakhin stated via Twitter that some technical difficulties have already been addressed and assured users that the feature will be back shortly.

Meanwhile, towards the end of last week, Bing Chat underwent a few significant enhancements. The chatbot employs Artificial intelligence and is now equipped to accommodate a maximum of 30 turns for every conversation, in distinction to its former cap of 20. Additionally, Bing Image Creator is currently supported in Precise and Balanced modes, unlike before when it was confined to Creative mode. Also, travel-related inquiries will demonstrate more visual outcomes.

Last month, Microsoft announced significant updates to Bing Chat, some of which have already been implemented. Alongside these updates, the company has introduced minor improvements to enhance the overall chatbot experience. Among these improvements is the ability to copy entire answers for sharing and download messages as PDF, text, or Word documents.

The esteemed technology corporation unveiled other notable updates to Bing Chat, including a chat history feature and the ability to utilize plug-ins. Additionally, the company has publicized that users are no longer required to have a Microsoft account to engage with the chatbot. It is essential to note, however, that conversations without authentication are limited to a maximum of five turns per session.

Via Search Engine Roundtable

See more

Microsoft will provide the US government agencies with OpenAI’s GPT-4 AI model

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft is expanding its Azure Government cloud computing service by incorporating the advanced AI language models that power ChatGPT. This move follows the release of the commercial version of Azure OpenAI offering.

The tech giant is slated to unveil a new feature on Wednesday that will allow Azure Government customers to leverage the prowess of two of OpenAI’s expansive language models, namely, GPT-4, the start-up’s latest and most advanced model, and GPT-3, an earlier variant.

The forthcoming release is likely to refrain from explicitly mentioning the US government agencies that are anticipated to adopt the technology, however, Bloomberg suggests that the US Defense Department, the Energy Department, and NASA could potentially be included, given that they are federal government clients that have utilized Microsoft’s Azure Government solution.

The move provides government entities access to two of OpenAI’s large language models, namely the most recent and potent GPT-4 and its antecedent GPT-3, through Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI service. It has been confirmed that the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC), an arm of the Defense Department that specializes in assembling and distributing military discoveries, will conduct trials employing the GPT models via Microsoft’s latest offering.

According to a recent blog post reviewed by Bloomberg, Microsoft’s government clients can leverage OpenAI’s LLMs for a vast array of tasks such as answering crucial research queries, computer code generation, and field report summarization. Azure Global CTO William Chappell revealed this information in the post. Nevertheless, the company’s representative noted that these agencies could not access ChatGPT directly, though they could utilize OpenAI’s models through a chat-like interface.

Microsoft has designated a segregated commercial cloud computing space to accommodate the OpenAI models. The area is distinct from the cloud utilized by Azure Government customers, which strictly observes various security and data compliance regulations. As per Chappell’s statement, the data transmitted to the models remains within the Azure OpenAI service since Microsoft hosts them in its Azure infrastructure. Moreover, it was also mentioned that the AI models won’t be trained using data from Azure Government customers.

Via Bloomberg

Diskpart Failed to Clear Disk Attributes: 4 Ways to Fix

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Users can run into the diskpart failed to clear disk attributes when using the Diskpart utility. The error means the disk is write-protected, and you cannot write any data on it. However, we’ll discuss the basic steps for fixing the error.

Likewise, we have a detailed guide on removing write protection from your pen drive on Windows 11.

Why did diskpart failed to clear disk attributes?

The Diskpart failed to clear disk attributes error can occur due to various reasons. Here are a few possible causes:

  • Disk or hardware issues – The disk itself may have physical or hardware issues that prevent DiskPart from clearing the disk attributes, including problems like bad sectors, disk corruption, or a failing disk.
  • Disk Write potection – Write protection is often enabled through physical switches or settings on the disk itself or via software settings. Removing write protection can fix the issue.
  • Disk in use or locked – If another process or program currently uses the disk, it may be locked, preventing DiskPart from changing its attributes.
  • Insufficient permissions – DiskPart must be run with administrative privileges to perform certain operations, including clearing disk attributes. So, insufficient permissions can cause an error.
  • Incompatible disk or format – DiskPart may fail to clear attributes if the disk is formatted in an incompatible file system that DiskPart cannot handle.
  • File system errors – If the disk has file system errors or inconsistencies, DiskPart may encounter difficulties in clearing disk attributes and prompt the Diskpart failed to clear disk attributes error to appear.

These causes may vary depending on the circumstances. Fortunately, we’ll take you through some effective fixes for the error in the next section of this article.

What can I do if diskpart failed to clear disk attributes?

Observe the following preliminary checks before trying any advanced troubleshooting steps:

  • Ensure the disk is not locked – Some USB devices and SD card readers have a write-protected physical switch that disables the writable options on the storage device. Check the drive and turn off the toggle to make the disk writable.
  • Turn off background apps – It will close any applications or background processes using the disk, allowing it to clear the disk attributes.

If the above checks can fix the issue, proceed with the solutions below:

1. Run diskpart as an administrator

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt, and select the Run as administrator option.
  2. Click Yes on the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
  3. Type the following in the command bar and press Enter: diskpart 
  4. Try performing the task that prompted the diskpart failed to clear the disk attributes error and check if it persists.

The above steps will run Diskpart with administrative privileges and allow you to modify the disks and volumes.

2. Run the CHKDSK command

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt, and click the Run as administrator option.
  2. Click Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
  3. Type the following commands and press Enter: chkdsk X: /f  
  4. Replace X with the drive letter of the disk.

The CHKDSK (Check Disk) command will check the disk for errors causing the diskpart issues and attempt to fix them. Check our guide on what to do if Command Prompt keeps crashing on your PC.

3. Modifying WriteProtected key in Registry Editor

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following file path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\StorageDevicePolicies
  3. Locate the WriteProtect entry on the left side of the screen, double-click on it and change its Value data to 0, then click OK to save changes.
  4. Restart your computer and check if the error appears on the disk.

Tweaking the registry entry allows you to disable the WriteProtect key to modify the disk.

4. Change the drive format to FAT32

  1. Press the Windows + E key to open File Explorer.
  2. Right-click This PC or My Computer and select Manage from the drop-down.
  3. Click on Disk Management from the left lane.
  4. Right-click on the RAW drive and select Format from the context menu.
  5. Click the File System tab, set it to FAT32, then click OK.

Formatting the drive to FAT32 can fix the issue.

Check our comprehensive article about how to format USB drives to FAT32 on Windows PCs for more steps.

In conclusion, you may be interested in our detailed guide about fixing USB drive detected but not accessible on Windows PCs.

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

Winsock Error 10038: How to Fix It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Winsock error 10038 is a socket connection problem you may encounter when connecting to a remote server. Sockets are a way to send and receive data over a network. They can be used for many things, from sending emails to viewing web pages. 

In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common causes and solutions for the socket connection error. We’ll also cover additional tips and tricks to help prevent this issue.

What is Winsock error 10038?

Winsock error 10038 is caused by problems with the Windows Sockets API, which is a part of the TCP/IP protocol suite. This is a set of communications protocols that send data between applications on a computer network.

If you are getting a socket connection error, it can be because of one of the following reasons.

  • Firewall or antivirus is blocking the connection – The most common reason for this error is if one of your third-party firewall or antivirus products has been updated recently. When this happens, they sometimes reset TCP/IP settings to default.
  • Wrong credentials – You might have entered the wrong password in the connection settings, especially if it is case-sensitive.
  • Connection issues – Sometimes, the network you are using may be down or slow for other reasons.
  • Incorrect or corrupt IP address – This can happen if you have recently changed your DNS settings or there is no connection between your local area network and the Internet.
  • Proxy server – If you’re using a proxy server, your connection may be interrupted because it limits access to certain sites.

How do I fix a socket connection error?

Attempt the following basic workarounds before the advanced steps:

  • Close all programs that you have running.
  • Check your cables and plugs and ensure they are securely connected to both devices.
  • Verify that you have entered the correct password when connecting.
  • Perform a network speed test to rule out the possibility of a slow connection.
  • Check if your firewall is enabled and allow an exception for the program you are trying to run.
  • Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date.
  • Restart your router, modem, and PC again, if necessary.

1. Disable your antivirus temporarily

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

2. Update your network drivers

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to Network adapters and click to expand. Right-click on the driver, then click Update driver from the drop-down.
  3. Select the Search automatically for drivers option and wait till the update finishes.
  4. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Another way to get things done faster and more accurately is to use a third-party driver updater utility. This is one sure way of ensuring you’re getting the correct drivers for your PC.

Even better, you don’t have to move a finger because Outbyte Driver Updater will automatically do the job for you. It will scan, detect, download, and install the driver from its wide database in a matter of seconds.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Disable Proxy 

  1. Press the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Network & Internet on the left pane, then scroll down and click Proxy on the right pane.Network proxy settings
  3. Select Edit next to Use a proxy server option in the Manual proxy setup section, toggle off Use a proxy server and click on Save.Disable proxy server
  4. Restart your PC and see if the issue persists.

4. Reset TCP/IP

  1. Click on the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Open.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type in the following commands and press Enter after each one:netsh winsock reset catalog netsh int ipv4 reset reset.log netsh int ipv6 reset reset.log
  3. Now restart your PC and see if the error is still there.

Resetting TCP/IP removes your computer’s network settings and forces it to re-establish them from scratch. This includes everything from your IP address to your proxy settings.

It can resolve problems such as an unresponsive connection to the Internet or unexpected loss of connectivity.

In conclusion, if you are facing the problem of Winsock error 10038 and want to fix it, you only need to follow the steps we have listed above. Hopefully, one of the above methods will work for you.

Unfortunately, Winsock errors are common, so we try our best to come up with solutions for most of them. To that effect, we’d like to direct you to another wholesome article on the Winsock error 10051 and see our recommended fixes.

These types of errors will affect Chrome and other browsers, and we have a guide on ERR_SOCKET_NOT_CONNECTED error that addresses this issue.

And with that, we sign out but keep it interactive in the comment section below with more tips and tricks.

How to Wirelessly Transfer Files from PC to Android

Posted on by Flavius Floare

There are several ways to quickly and wirelessly transfer files from PC to Android phones. On Windows 11, you can use Phone Link for both Android and iPhones. You also have several other apps to use to transfer data from mobile devices to desktops and PCs.

However, as spotted on Reddit, there are some other great apps out there that you can use, especially on Windows + Android combinations. This Reddit user wanted such a combination, and the answers are beneficial, at least.

Is there a universal file sharing system for windows+android?
byu/fungus_snake3848 inWindows11

Turns out, there are a lot of possibilities when thinking about a universal file-sharing system for Windows + Android. And if PhoneLink lets you take and make calls and generally keep up with the conversations on your phone, some great apps allow for a seamless file transfer.

How to wirelessly transfer files from PC to Android with LocalSend?

Naturally, other Reddit users came up with a lot of answers. But one, in particular, seems to be a good option. LocalSend is a free, open-source, and cross-platform that allows you to transfer files wirelessly.

And you have a lot of options. You can transfer them from Windows to Android, Linux, or iOS and vice-versa with just a few clicks.

  1. Go to LocalSend and download it on your Windows, iOS, or Linux.
  2. Install the app and open it.
  3. Go to GoogleStore or Appstore and download and install LocalSend on your mobile device.
  4. Open LocalSend on your desktop and on your phone.wireless transfer pc to android
  5. Your desktop should now automatically detect your phone.
  6. That’s it, you’ve done it. Enjoy the file transferring.

As you can see, you have the option to wirelessly transfer your files from your PC to your mobile and vice-versa through the Send and Receive options.

However, both devices must be on the same wifi network, so consider this when using LocalSend. This is much better compared to USB transfer because it is often plagued by errors such as the please update your device settings to accept media files.

The app is small, so it won’t occupy much space on your mobile devices and desktop. It also has a community where you can ask or look for answers. And if you want, you can also contribute to the project.

So here you go. Until Microsoft comes with a proper built-in app to allow you wirelessly to transfer files, LocalSend can be a very good alternative.

What do you think about it? Will you use it? Let us know in the comment section below.

You can now access Teams shared device license on Android

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Another good news for Teams users. Besides the new Apple augmented reality headset that lets you control the app through your very own eyes, those on Android devices are having a little treat, too, as Teams’ Shared Device licenses feature is coming to the ecosystem.

As spotted on Microsoft 365 Roadmap site under Feature ID 126706, this exciting development allows Android phones to be utilized as shared devices, enhancing collaboration and communication within teams.

With this license, Android users will have access to a range of features and functionalities previously available only on common area phones. This includes popular capabilities such as Walkie Talkie, call queues, auto attendants, cloud voicemail, call park, and all other calling features currently supported by Teams.

The inclusion of the Shared Device license on the Teams mobile app for Android opens up new possibilities for organizations and teams that rely on mobile devices for their day-to-day operations. It enables seamless integration and synchronization across different devices, ensuring a consistent and efficient experience regardless of the device being used.

When the feature was first launched back in 2022, Teams’ Shared Device licenses are priced at $8 per device/month across all licensing channels.

When does Teams shared device license come to Android devices?

This exciting update was added to the Microsoft Teams roadmap on June 6, 2023, and is set to enter the General Availability release phase. Rollout is scheduled to commence in August 2023, allowing Android users to take advantage of the Teams Shared Device license and its associated features.

The availability of this feature on the Teams mobile app for Android represents Microsoft’s commitment to empowering teams with the tools and capabilities they need to collaborate effectively, regardless of their location or the devices they use. It further enhances the flexibility and versatility of Teams as a comprehensive collaboration platform.

Have you had a Teams’ Shared Device license? What do you think about its addition to Android devices? Let us know in the comments!

How to add Bing AI search/chat on another browser

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Microsoft’s latest innovation in the AI world integrates the power of ChatGPT into its Bing service, and it’s safe to say that it brings life to the often-overlooked search engine. 

The technology lets you perform complex searches and commands like no other before. With this, you can create short stories, and poems, plan holidays or even develop codes to help you in your next project—exclusive on Microsoft Edge. 

The waitlist program has been rolling out for a while and some users have gotten their hands on the technology. Although the public’s reception has been somewhat polarizing, it doesn’t phase Microsoft at all. Matter of fact, they rolled out the new Bing for Edge and Skype users on mobile devices (both iOS and Android users) and introduced a voice input feature in it. 

While giving out Bing AI chat to another browser would be commercial suicide for Microsoft, it seems like the AI chatbot is heading toward non-Edge browsers. As recently confirmed by Mikhail Parakhin, Microsoft’s head of Advertising and Web Services, Redmond officials are experimenting with bringing Bing to other browsers and will be rolling out gradually.

Until then, in the meantime, here’s how you can try Bing AI chatbot on other browsers, courtesy of a few registry tweaks.

How to add Bing AI search/chat on another browser

1. Open your browser and access Bing, but you’d need to be enrolled in the waitlist first. If you’re not already, join the waitlist. In this case, we’re using Google Chrome. 

If not, join the waitlist. 

2. Click Chat.

3. Click the three buttons on your upper right screen ➜ More tools ➜ Developer tools.

4. Click the three buttons (a different one) ➜ More tools ➜ Network condition. Remember: do not close this screen throughout this process!

5. On the Network condition tab, scroll down until you find the User agent. Untick Use browser default.

6 Choose Microsoft Edge (Chromium)—Windows on the dropdown (or choose Mac if you’re on Mac, etc.)

7. Reload the page without closing the screen.

The search, however, doesn’t come without any limitations and isn’t ready for primetime yet. Some users have reported that they’ve been verbally assaulted, or even guided to illegal searches. It still can not hold up the conversation for a longer period, prompting a response from its competitor Google that Microsoft is rushing on things just to get a head start.

What do you think about the new Bing? Let us know in the comments!

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How to like a comment on Microsoft Word

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Want more good news besides the new Apple device that lets you control Microsoft Word through your eyes? Well, a small little feature that lets you drop a like on a comment on Word has just arrived. Now, those in the web app, the Beta channel, and the Preview channel can take this little addition for a spin. 

Now, rather than spamming out “+1” or a similar response to express agreement, you can now simply click the “upvote” button / drop a like to show your support or acknowledge a collaborator’s feedback. This feature aligns Word with other platforms such as Word for the Web, Teams, and social media apps, where reacting to comments is already commonplace.

With that said, you’d need to be a part of the Beta or Preview insider channel to access this feature so far or be on the web version. If you already are, here’s how you can like a comment on Microsoft Word. 

How to like a comment on Microsoft Word

1. Open a Word document that already contains comments or, alternatively, generate a new comment and submit it.

2. To react to a comment, click the Like button in the top right corner of the comment box.

Animation showing how to show who liked a comment

3. To remove your reaction, simply click the Like button again.

4. To see who has reacted to a comment, hover over the Like button.

Comment with 4 Likes, showing who has liked the comment

With that said, however, this still comes with a few limitations. If your document is still in read-only mode or is quite old, the button may not be visible. And, if you’re on iOS or Android devices, you may still not be able to see the comment reactions. 

What do you think about the like-a-comment feature on Word? Have you tried it? Let us know in the comments!

How to disable SMB signing by default on Windows 11

Posted on by Flavius Floare

Last week, Microsoft released an important feature in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25381: SMB (Server Message Block) signing will be required by default for all connections.

If Windows 10 and 11 required SMB signing only in certain situations, now the feature will automatically enable it on these operating systems.

SMB signing is a process that makes sure every message you send has a signature-session key. Basically, you put a hash on the signature field of your messages. Every time someone tries to change the message, SMB will know. And both you and the receiver must confirm your identity, thus protecting you from hacking attacks.

The Redmond-based tech giant says that signing is a critical defensive tactic. Even more, the feature is part of a campaign to improve the security of Windows for the modern landscape.

But let’s say you want to disable SMB signing for certain reasons. A third-party app or software that you use might not support it. What to do then?

Here’s how to disable SMB signing by default on Windows 11

  • In the Search taskbar type in Windows PowerShell and run it as an administrator
    windows 11 disable smb signing
  • Check your current SMB settings by typing in the following command
Get-SmbClientConfiguration | FL requiresecuritysignature
  • To disable SMB signing requirements in client connections, run the following command (img) 
Set-SmbClientConfiguration -RequireSecuritySignature $false 

windows 11 disable smb signing
  • Select Y to make the changes and you should be all set.

You should also know that all versions of Windows support SMB signing. And when you’ll try to connect to a remote share third-party server that does now allow SMB signing, you’ll get the following error:

0xc000a000

-1073700864

STATUS_INVALID_SIGNATURE                                      

The cryptographic signature is invalid.

In order for you to solve this error, you must configure your third-party server to support SMB signing. You can disable the SMB signing on your Windows 11 device, however, Microsoft does not recommend it. A third-party server that does now allow SMB signing is very vulnerable to attacks from malicious parties.

Before making changes, review possible legacy compatibility issues. Learn how to fix SMBv1 file sharing broken over NetBIOS to avoid connectivity problems when adjusting SMB signing settings.

Currently, this feature is only in Windows Insider, but the default change for SMB signing will come to other Windows versions as well. It will also appear in major Windows releases over the next months, depending on how it goes in Windows Insider.

What do you think about this new feature? Is it useful or could it cause more compatibility issues? Let us know what you think below.

How to Completely Uninstall Spotify on Windows 11

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Many of our readers have reported that the Spotify app is getting automatically installed on their PCs after installing the latest Windows update.

Being frustrated by this, users are looking at how to uninstall Spotify on Windows 11. In this guide, we will show you exactly how that can be done. Let us check out the solutions.

How can I uninstall Spotify on Windows 11?

1. Use Windows Settings

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Click on Apps from the left pane.
  3. Select Installed apps.
  4. Locate Spotify Music, click on the 3-dot menu icon, and select Uninstall.
  5. Follow the on-screen steps to uninstall Spotify.
  6. Restart your PC.
  7. Press Win + E keys to open File Explorer.
  8. Navigate to C:\Program Files.
  9. Click on the View tab, select Show, and then Hidden items.
  10. Right-click on the WindowsApps folder and select Properties.
  11. Switch to the Security tab.
  12. Click on Advanced.
  13. Click on Change next to Owner.
  14. In the Enter the object name… field type Administrators and click OK.
  15. Once the ownership is taken, open the WindowsApps folder.
  16. Delete the SpotifyAB.SpotifyMusic_1.138.558.0_x86__zpdnekdrzrea0 folder.
  17. Restart your PC.

Following the above steps, users were able to remove the Spotify app from their PCs for good and it never got automatically installed again.

You should also try following each step carefully without skipping any to successfully accomplish the task of how to uninstall Spotify on Windows 11.

2. Uninstall Spotify from the Start menu

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Click on All apps.
  3. Locate Spotify, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.
  4. Click on Uninstall on the prompt that appears.

This is another simple way of uninstalling Spotify from your Windows 11 PC. You should follow the steps and get rid of the music streaming app from your PC.

3. Uninstall Spotify using PowerShell

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Windows PowerShell and run it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter to fetch the list of all installed apps on your Windows 11 PC. Get-AppxPackage
  4. Right-click on the Windows PowerShell title bar, select Edit and click on Find. Alternatively, you can press the Ctrl + F keys.
  5. Type Spotify in the Find What field and click on the Find Next button.
  6. Locate the Spotify app.
  7. Select and copy the text next to PackageFullName.
  8. Execute the below command in PowerShell: Remove-AppxPackage AppName
    (In place of AppName in the above command, you have to paste the PackageFullName that you have copied in step 7)

The above method will help you to resolve your query on how to uninstall Spotify on Windows 11. It will completely remove the Spotify app and its remains from your Windows 11 computer.

4. Uninstall Spotify using Control Panel

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Click on Programs and Features.
  4. Select Spotify and hit the Uninstall button.
  5. Click OK to confirm your actions.
  6. Restart your PC.

We have shown the steps to remove a different application just to give you an example of how to uninstall Spotify on your Windows 11 PC. You can apply the same steps to remove the Spotify app from your PC.

How to remove leftover Spotify files from your computer?

1. Use the Run dialogue

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type %temp% and hit Enter.
  3. Select all files by pressing the Ctrl + A keys.
  4. Hit the Del button to delete all the leftover Spotify files.

This is the basic way to not only delete all the leftover Spotify files but all the other program-related temporary files. This also helps create more storage space and also helps run your PC a bit smoother.

2. Delete Spotify paths from Registry Editor

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Press Ctrl + F to open the Find utility.
  4. Type Spotify in the Find what field and click Find next.
  5. Right-click on the highlighted entry and click on Delete.
  6. Select Yes in the UAC prompt that appears.

Be sure to delete only the Spotify-associated registry entries, as deleting any other important registry entry could hamper your device.

That is it from us in this guide. If you are getting the Spotify installation error code 53, then you can apply the solutions from our guide and resolve the problem.

Let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions helped you resolve your query on how to uninstall Spotify on Windows 11.

Apple Vision Pro: What’s the price & what’s so exciting?

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Here’s some good news for you. Apple has unveiled an incredible new invention called Vision Pro, an augmented reality headset that enables you to access apps simply by using your eyes, straight out of futuristic movies. Microsoft has also joined the fray by introducing productivity applications such as Word, Excel, and Teams for this advanced headset.

As shown by Apple during the product’s demo event at WWDC 2023, the tech giant showcased the productivity apps with a simplified ribbon interface reminiscent of Excel and Word web apps. These apps can now be controlled using eye movements. Additionally, Teams on this device will offer support for 3D avatars.

In terms of design, Vision Pro combines advanced materials with a compact and wearable form factor. The device’s battery life allows for two hours of continuous use, and its unrivaled hardware includes an ultra-high-resolution display system, advanced audio capabilities, and a high-performance eye-tracking system.

The question is, how much is a Vision Pro augmented reality headset by Apple and when will it hit the stores?

How can I get Apple Vision Pro augmented reality headset & what’s the price?

As we’ve noted from Apple’s release note, a Vision Pro augmented reality headset is priced at $3,499. It will be available starting in early 2024 in several select Apple Stores in the US before rolling out in other countries. In the meantime, you can also sign up for the waitlist on Apple’s website to get notified. 

Besides those Office apps, the device also offers a wide range of applications, including enhanced productivity with an infinite canvas for apps, engaging entertainment experiences with a personal movie theater feel, and immersive environments that extend beyond physical boundaries.

This isn’t the first time a Microsoft app comes to an Apple device. Earlier this year, we’ve reported that Outlook users on Mac, which supports Apple Focus, has arrived for free on the system.

Are you excited about Apple Vision Pro augmented reality headset? What do you think about the price? Let us know in the comments!

Wininet.dll Not Found: How to Fix or Download it Again

Posted on by Claire Moraa

WinINet stands for Windows Internet and is a library that provides applications with Internet functionality. It is included with Microsoft Windows and can be used by any application written in native code. 

If a DLL file is missing from your system, especially the Wininet.dll, accessing the Internet can be hard or impossible. We now explore how to restore this crucial DLL file in your system to keep things running smoothly on your PC.

What is Wininet DLL?

WinINet DLL is a file that contains a set of functions that enable Windows applications to communicate over the Internet. You can find the file in the following location: C:\Windows\System32

It is designed primarily for use by Microsoft Internet Explorer, but it can also be used by other applications that need to access types of data normally found on the Internet. 

WinINet is a layered API that consists of several subsystems:

  • Internet protocol stack – This component provides basic networking capabilities, such as sending and receiving data over a network connection.
  • Authentication – This component allows your application to authenticate itself with network servers when necessary.
  • Networking library – This component provides generalized sockets support for various network protocols, including TCP/IP and UDP/IP.

Being a critical component of Windows, you may have trouble opening some programs or accessing the Internet if it is missing. Some of the major causes of the wininet.dll not found error include a corrupt user profile, broken registry entries, and a virus attack on your system.

How can I fix the Wininet.dll file if it is missing?

Try your luck with the following basic steps first before any advanced troubleshooting:

1. Use a DLL repair tool

The Wininet.dll file is a Windows file, making it easier for a third-party DLL fixer to do the repair job. Such programs have a comprehensive database of DLL files that can replace the missing ones instantly. The repair is 100% guaranteed with this file since is a system file.

2. Run the DISM and SFC scans

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth sfc /scannow

3. Run a virus scan

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

4. Create a new user profile 

  1. Press Windows + R to launch the Run console, enter netplwiz in the text field, and click OK.
  2. Click Add in the User Accounts window.
  3. Select Sign in without a Microsoft account (not recommended).
  4. Click on Local account button.
  5. Enter a username and password (optional) for the new user account, and a hint, in case you set a password. Once done, click on Next.
  6. Click on Finish to create the Local account.

Whereas this step won’t help you fix the Wininet.dll not found error, it will be a step closer to checking off the list whether you have a corrupt user profile. If it works, you can take the necessary steps to repair your profile.

5. Download the file manually

You may have accidentally deleted the file, or if you had a virus infection, it made some changes to your PC. An easy way would be to download the Wininet.dll file from a reliable third-party site such as DLL-files.

Even if it is a trusted site, always ensure you have a backup with a dependable antivirus that will scan any files before they find your way into your system.

6. Perform a repair upgrade

  1. Navigate to the official Windows 11 Downloads page and click on Select download from Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO), then pick Windows 11.
  2. Now click on the Download button.
  3. Select the language, then click the Confirm button. You will receive a download link and you will be able to click on the 64-bit Download button to get the Windows 11 ISO.
  4. Now you can create a bootable USB or DVD, or just right-click the ISO and select the Mount option.
  5. You will see a virtual drive in the File Explorer window. Just click on it and then double-click the setup.exe file to start the installation process.
  6. Wait for the installation process to begin. At some point, you’ll be prompted to either keep all your files or install Windows only. Select keep your files, then proceed.

Users who went with this solution also recommended performing a Disk Cleanup after the repair upgrade.

To round up this article, we’d like to direct you to our other article on how to deal with missing DLL files on your Windows 10.

For any feedback on this article, leave a comment down below.

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Recycle Bin is Greyed Out? How to Quickly Fix it

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

An issue Windows users complain about is that the Recycle Bin is grayed out. It prevents users from accessing the recycle bin, restoring deleted files, and accessing the Recycle Bin settings. However, this article will discuss what causes the issue and ways to fix it.

Likewise, you can go through our guide about what to do if the Recycle Bin goes missing in Windows 11.

Why is the Recycle Bin greyed out?

Many factors can cause the Recycle Bin to be greyed out on your computer. Some notable ones are below:

  • User account permission issues – The Recycle Bin activities like opening, emptying, restoring, etc., can sometimes require administrative rights because it is a part of system alterations. So, the option can be greyed out and inaccessible if you’re not running an account with administrator privileges.
  • Corrupted Recycle Bin – You can also encounter the issue when the Recycle Bin is corrupted or compromised by malware and virus attacks or other malicious activities. It affects its functionality and can cause it to malfunction. Read more about fixing corrupt Recycle Bin in Windows 11.

These causes may differ on various devices. Nonetheless, you can fix the problem by trying the steps to be discussed in the next section.

What can I do if the Recycle Bin is greyed out?

Observe the following preliminary checks before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting steps:

  • Restart your computer – Restarting the PC is the quickest way to fix temporary performance issues and refresh its components.
  • Perform a clean boot – A clean boot will boot the PC with minimal drivers and programs, preventing the interference of a third-party program that can cause the computer to malfunction.
  • Empty the Recycle Bin for all users – It will delete the corrupt files or folders, causing the Recycle Bin to grey out. You can check our guide for steps to empty the Recycle Bin for all users on Windows 11.
  • Fix corrupted Recycle Bin – Fixing the Recycle Bin if it is corrupt will resolve any problems with the Windows component. Read about how you can fix the corrupt Recycle Bin on your PC.

If you can get around the problem, go ahead with the fixes outlined below:

1. Re-add the Recycle Bin icon

  1. Press Windows + I key to open Windows Settings.
  2. Select the Personalization option and select Themes.
  3. Then, click the Desktop icon settings in the right pane.
  4. Now, uncheck the box for Recycle Bin and click OK to apply your changes.
  5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 and check the box for Recycle Bin, then click OK to apply your changes.

Re-adding the Recycle Bin icon will help trigger it to come up.

2. Use the Group Policy Editor

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type gpedit.msc in the text box, and press Enter to open Local Group Policy Editor.
  2. Now, navigate to this location: User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Desktop
  3. In the right pane of the screen, find Remove Recycle Bin icon from the desktop file. Double-click on the file to open it, and click the radio button for the Not Configured option.
  4. Then, click the OK button to save your settings.
  5. Restart the computer.

The above steps allow you to configure and modify the option for removing the Recycle Bin icon from the desktop and restoring it.

After doing that, check if Recycle Bin is still grayed out.

3. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type regedit in the text box, and press Enter to open Registry Editor.
  2. Copy and paste the following location to the address bar and press Enter: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\NonEnum
  3. Then, double-click the DWORD value named {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} in the right pane and set its value data to 0.
  4. If you can find the above value, right-click any blank area in the right pane and select New from the drop-down, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  5. Now, input {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} as the file name.
  6. Double-click on the DWORD value and set its value data to 0. Click the OK button to save your changes.

Tweaking the above registry will hopefully fix Recycle Bin is grayed out issue on your PC.

Conclusively, you may be interested in our guide on how to fix Recycle Bin icons not refreshing on Windows 11.

Also, read about deleted files not being in the Recycle Bin on Windows 11 and how to fix the problem.

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

Runtime Error 7: Out of Memory [Fix]

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Runtime error 7 out of memory is a common error every programmer faces at least once in a lifetime. Other computer users are also not exempt from this error, as it appeared when using Microsoft Excel.

You might get this error if you’re working on large projects using too much memory. A run repair tool should suffice, but even such requires memory to be installed, which is a memory issue. If a repair tool is out of the picture, find other ways to deal with this error.

What is the run time error 7 in Excel?

Run time error 7 is common in Excel. It occurs when the program runs out of memory. This can happen if you work with a large spreadsheet or have many spreadsheets open simultaneously.

It may also occur when you try to run a macro you have written, but when you execute it, it fails because your system lacks sufficient resources.

Other reasons you may encounter the runtime error 7 out of memory include:

  • Corrupt file – Sometimes, when you open an Excel file, it may not open properly because it has become corrupt for some reason.
  • Insufficient memory – Your computer needs enough space to store files and ensure that all applications run smoothly without interruptions or crashes due to insufficient memory resources.
  • Compatibility issues – Another common cause of this error is an incompatibility between the version of Excel you are using and the version of the file you are trying to open.
  • Unexpected closure of a workbook – You may also get this error if you close an Excel workbook without saving changes. When this happens, Excel tries to run the macro using objects that no longer exist.
  • Memory leak – A memory leak occurs when a program allocates memory from the system and fails to free or reuse it. If you have an Excel file with a large number of formulas and functions, it’s possible that there is a memory leak.
  • Hardware failure – The problem may also be caused by an issue with your computer’s hardware. Your CPU might be failing and causing this error.

Strangely enough, one of our readers encountered this error when one of the cells in the spreadsheet had an apostrophe (King’s Lynn). Removing the character returned everything to normal.

How can I fix the runtime error 7 out of memory?

Start off with these basic workarounds before jumping onto the heavy hitters:

1. Defragment your hard disk drive

Note icon NOTE
Perform this step only if you have an HDD. For SSD, this procedure is simply useless.
  1. Right-click on the Start Menu to bring up the shortcut menu, then select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type the following command, then hit Enter to analyze your drive. Remember to replace X with the letter of your drive: defrag X: /a
  3. After the scan is finished, you’ll see information about your hard drive, including the fragmentation level and a note saying whether you need to defragment your drive or not.
  4. Now enter the following command to defrag that drive: defrag X:
  5. Wait for the process to finish.

2. Increase Virtual Memory

  1. Hit the Search icon on the Taskbar, type View advanced system settings in the text field at the top, and click on the relevant search result that appears.View advanced system settings to increase virtual memory windows 11
  2. In the Advanced tab, click on the Settings button under Performance.Settings advanced
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab in the Performance Options window.Advanced to increase virtual memory in Windows 11
  4. Next, click on Change under Virtual memory.Change virtual memory
  5. Untick the checkbox for Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.Untick checkbox to to increase virtual memory in Windows 11
  6. If Windows was managing the virtual memory earlier, it’s best to clear the previously set value and then increase it.
  7. To do that, click on the drive with System managed listed, select No paging file, and click on Set.No paging file
  8. Click Yes on the confirmation prompt that pops up.Click Yes
  9. Now, choose a drive or partition from the list, select the Custom size option and enter the same value under Initial size and Maximum size fields in MB (1GB=1024MB), taking cue from the previous section.Enter values to to increase virtual memory in Windows 11
  10. Once done, click on Set and then on OK at the bottom to save the changes.Click Set to to increase virtual memory in Windows 11
  11. Next, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

Should the above steps fail to yield the expected results for runtime error 7 out of memory, upgrading your RAM would be next.

But before you’re quick to get a new one, do your due diligence first. Sometimes, you may find that Windows is not using all RAM or even with two RAM sticks, only one RAM slot is working.

Exhaust all avenues before replacing any components of your PC. We all know nothing comes cheap.

That’s it for this article, but if you have any other solution worth mentioning, let us know in the comment section below.

Word for Windows and Mac is soon getting a Like button for comments

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

It’s safe to say that we are all familiar with the concept of a Like button by now, so there’s no need in explaining what it is.’

Whether you used it on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or any other social media platforms, the idea is pretty much the same.

The Redmond tech giant felt that some of its apps might also benefit from such a feature, and that’s what we’re going to focus on right now.

Before we get into it, however, remember that the Windows Backup app will soon save your Chrome passwords.

Get ready to test this brand-new feature for Word

As we’ve mentioned, a version of the Like button is going to appear in Microsoft’s Word app after you download and install the latest update.

In a recent blog post, the company said that it is rolling out the new Like icon for user comments in Word for Windows.

As Microsoft stated, this modern comment experience in Word sets the stage for richer collaboration by your team and aligns the commenting experience across the Office suite.

Animation showing liking a comment in a Word for Windows document

Using modern comments, you can leave thoughts or questions in the document for others, review and edit your comments before committing them, and mention someone.

Before, you had to improvise by typing replies like +1 to let others know that you agree or would like to participate in a certain event.

However, now, you can simply click a button to upvote a response, agree with a sentiment, or acknowledge that you’ve read a collaborator’s feedback.

Customer feedback suggested that users wanted to be able to quickly and easily convey their reaction to a comment like you can do on Word for the web, Teams, or other social media apps.

Thus, the Like icon button will now appear on any comment that’s created for a Word document in the top right corner.

Animation showing how to show who liked a comment

That means that you can just click on it to show that you approve of the comment. You can also hover the cursor over the button to see who else has liked it.

And, if you didn’t mean to like something, know that you can also take back your reaction by clicking on the button again.

Please note that Microsoft says the Like icon will not be available if a Word document is in read-only mode.

Furthermore, you can also react to a comment below the top comment by pressing the Down arrow. This will allow you to move through the list of comments.

Keep in mind that this new feature is only available for Word for Windows beta testers for now, along with Word users on the web.

It’s now rolling out for Current Channel (Preview) users running Version 2305 (Build 16501.20152) or later, so remember that.

Also, the Like icon comment feature will be added to the Mac version of Word in the next few weeks, so keep an eye out for that as well.

For the time being, iOS and Android Word users won’t be able to see the Like reactions. Older Word documents with comments may not show the button but any new comments added will support it.

Be sure to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions with us in the dedicated comments section located right below.

ISUSPM.exe: What is it & How to Fix its Errors

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Windows is a far more complex ecosystem than most would think. It has several background processes, some of which often lead to 100% CPU usage or high RAM consumption. And one of the common processes that frequently leads to issues is ISUSPM.exe.

The problem is that ISUSPM.exe does not appear as an application in the Task Manager or the Control Panel, making it difficult to remove the program as a startup app or uninstall it altogether. So, let’s find out all about the process and how to fix things with it!

What is ISUSPM.exe in Windows?

ISUSPM is a process in Windows that updates the installed programs. Its primary role is to identify any newer versions of apps and automatically download them. And to achieve this, the process keeps running in the background and kick-starts as soon as you boot Windows.

For those wondering where is ISUSPM.exe stored, the executable file can be found in the following path:C:\Program Files\Common Files\InstallShield\UpdateService\ISUSPM.exe

The process comes bundled with the Windows installation, and there’s no straightforward way to remove it. Some of the problems you may encounter with ISUSPM.exe are:

  • Increased resource consumption: One of the common reasons users first come to know about ISUSPM is an increase in resource consumption, which is evident in the Task Manager.
  • Frequent application errors: Though it’s recommended that users update the installed programs, some newer versions introduce instability or bugs, which may trigger application errors or make Windows crash.
  • Higher boot time: Every program added to the startup list increases the boot time, no matter how minimal the increase is.
  • Slower Internet speed: ISUSPM.exe downloads updates, which, when larger in size, can drain the network resources and lead to slower Internet speed in Windows.

How do I fix ISUSPM.exe errors?

1. Disable from launching at boot

Tip icon Tip
The process won’t be listed under Startup apps on newer iterations of Windows. So, if you can’t find it, head to the next method.
  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, and navigate to the Startup apps tab.
  2. Now, locate the ISUSPM.exe entry, select it if available, and then click on Disable near the corner.disable startup app to fix ISUSPM.exe
  3. Once done, restart the computer and check if you still face high CPU usage due to the process.

Also, if the problem first appeared after you installed a third-party program, disable it from the list of startup apps.

2. Delete the files

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, paste the following path in the address bar, and hit Enter:C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\InstallShield\Updateprocess files
  2. Now, press Ctrl + A to select all the files here, and hit Delete to remove them.
  3. Choose the appropriate response in case a confirmation prompt appears.

Another solution to fix the ISUSPM.exe error in Windows 10 and other iterations is to remove all the critical files. In case this leads to more errors, you can always perform an in-place upgrade to get things running.

3. Scan for malware

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Windows Security in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.virus & threat protection
  3. Click on Scan options.scan options
  4. Now, choose Full scan and click on Scan now.full scan to fix ISUSPM.exe
  5. Let the scan run, identify any threats, and neutralize them.

In a few cases, users found ISUSPM.exe to be a virus. Hackers often use names that resemble core processes to make the identification difficult and inject the malware into the PC. You can also use a reliable third-party antivirus for the scan.

4. Uninstall the program that triggers ISUSPM.exe

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.programs and features
  2. Now, select any recently installed program after downloading which the error first appeared, and click Uninstall.uninstall to fix ISUSPM.exe error
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

If it’s a program that initiates the ISUSPM.exe process and removing it as a startup app doesn’t help, the next option is to uninstall the app. In case the problem persists, we recommend using a dedicated uninstaller software to remove any associated files and registry entries.

5. Perform a system restore

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Create a restore point, and click on the relevant search result.
  2. Now, click on System Restore.system restore to fix ISUSPM.exe
  3. Select Choose a different restore point, if the option is available, and click Next.choose a different restore point
  4. Pick the oldest restore point from the ones listed here, and click Next.restore to fix ISUSPM.exe errors
  5. Finally, verify the restore details, and click on Finish to start the process.

System Restore often comes in as a useful troubleshooting exercise when the other methods fail to work. It reverts the computer’s state to a previous point in time, one where the error didn’t exist, thus fixing things in no time! You need the right restore points created for it.

By now, you must know all about the process and should have fixed the ISUSPM.exe errors with ease. Before you leave, check some quick tips to make Windows run faster than ever and get the best performance.

For any queries or to share more solutions with us, drop a comment below.

Windows 11 Insider build 25381 for the Canary Channel gets a servicing pipeline update to .1200

Posted on by Kip Kniskern

Microsoft updated the latest Canary Channel build, 25381 with a servicing pipeline update to 25381.1200. These builds do not include any new features, and are “designed to test our servicing pipeline for builds in the Canary Channel.”

Build 25381 was released last Friday, and included a change to SMB signing for Enterprise editions of Windows 11 in the Canary Channel.

 

What is Event ID 16 & How to Quickly Fix it

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

If you were to check the error logs in Windows, there are plenty of these. Most of them are irrelevant, requiring no attention. However, some are critical and need to be addressed right away. One such is Event ID 16, which has been bothering users for a long time.

The error is usually generated on computers that are part of a domain. However, some apps create the Event ID 16 in Windows. Abobe Reader was one. Then, several Virtual Machines, including VMWare, also lead to the error.

If you encounter an error in any of these cases, keep reading to find out how to get things up and running.

What causes Event ID 16?

Here are a few reasons users find the error in Event Viewer on Windows:

  • Misconfigured network settings: The error appears when Windows is unable to connect to the Automatic Update service, and this generally happens due to incorrect network settings.
  • Corrupt system files: When the PC has corrupt system files, it affects the basic functioning and triggers a range of errors, including a Blue Screen of Death.
  • Missing permissions: Some apps require administrative privileges to perform vital functions, and if the permissions are not granted, you may find Event ID 16 generated in the error logs.
  • Issues with the DNS: DNS or Domain Name System is vital from the network standpoint, and if the one being used stops functioning, this Event ID can be registered.

How do I fix Event ID 16 in Windows?

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

  • Restart the computer and check it’s still generating Event ID 16.
  • Install any pending Windows updates. Also, if it’s an app-related error, download its latest version.
  • For users facing hardware issues, ensure it’s properly connected and not malfunctioning.

If none work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Run the app as an administrator

  1. Right-click on the launcher for the program generating the error, and select Properties.
  2. Now, navigate to the Compatibility tab, and tick the checkbox for Run this program as an administrator.run as administrator to fix event id 16
  3. Once done, click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

Often a quick solution to Event ID 16 is to run the program with administrative privileges. This provides it with the relevant permissions to perform the critical actions.

2. Repair the corrupt system files

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.cmd
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Now, paste the following commands individually and hit Enter after each:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Once done, run this command for the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc scan to fix event id 16
  5. Finally, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

Of the many issues, corrupt system files are one that is often difficult to troubleshoot. But with the DISM tool and SFC scan, you can easily replace the corrupt files with the cached copy.

As an alternative, it’s more effective to use a tailored PC repair solution for Windows issues involving corrupted files or other performance troubles.

3. Change the DNS server

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type ncpa.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.ncpa.cpl
  2. Right-click on the active network adapter, and then select Properties.properties
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), and click on Properties.IPv4
  4. Now, select Use the following DNS server addresses, and enter the following in the text field:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4change DNS server to fix event id 16
  5. Once done, click OK on all subsequent windows to save the changes.

If it’s a network problem to blame for Event ID 16, your primary approach should be changing the DNS server. We used Google’s Public DNS, but you could use any other, given it’s reliable and error-free.

4. Update the drivers

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager from the list.
  2. Locate the affected device, right-click on it, and select Update driver.update driver to fix event id 16
  3. Now, select Search automatically for drivers and let Windows install the best one available locally.search automatically
  4. Once done, restart the computer.

A few users reported Event ID 16 being generated when connecting a device to the computer via Bluetooth. It could be with other adapters as well. And a quick solution is to update the Bluetooth drivers.

Besides, if Windows can’t find one automatically, you can always manually install the driver from the manufacturer’s website.

5. Run the Windows Management Instrumentation service

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Services in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.
  2. Locate the Windows Management Instrumentation service, right-click on it, and select Properties.properties
  3. Select Automatic from the Startup type dropdown menu, and click on Start if the service is not running.run service to fix event id 16
  4. Finally, click Apply and OK to save the changes.

6. Reset the network settings

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Command Prompt in the text field, right-click on the relevant search result, and then select Run as administrator.cmd
  2. Click Yes in the prompt.
  3. Run the following commands individually to reset the network:ipconfig /release ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /renew netsh int ip reset netsh winsock resetreset network to fix event id 16

In case changing the DNS didn’t work, and you are certain it’s the network to blame, resetting the network settings should do the trick when you find several instances of Event ID 16.

7. Perform an in-place upgrade

Note icon NOTE
The steps here are to perform an in-place upgrade on Windows 11. For those running the previous iteration, download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool, and use it to do a repair upgrade.
  1. Go to Microsoft’s official website, choose the OS edition and product language, and then download the Windows 11 ISO file.download
  2. After downloading it, open the ISO, and run the setup.exe file.setup to fix event id 16
  3. Click Yes in the prompt that appears.
  4. Now, click on Next to proceed.next to proceed
  5. Click Accept to agree to Microsoft’s license terms and click Next.accept license terms
  6. Finally, verify that the setup reads, Keep personal files and apps, and click on Install to start the process.in-place upgrade to fix event id 16

An in-place upgrade generally takes a few hours but is an effective fix against various errors, including Event ID 16. And you don’t lose any apps, files, or configure settings. Once the computer restarts, you shouldn’t find any new instances of the error in Event Viewer.

If none of the solutions worked, we recommend getting the PC inspected by a professional since it could be a hardware issue to blame for Event ID 16.

Before you leave, check some reliable PC repair tools and download one today to automatically eliminate such errors.

If you come across Event ID 158, the highlighted guide will help you go through it quickly. This isn’t the only error, and many reported Event 4502 WinREAgent on Windows 11, but we covered that in a separate guide.

This isn’t the only event you can encounter, and in a recent guide we covered Event ID 7034, so don’t miss it.

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

Microsoft attempts to get more people to use Bing Chat with prompted questions

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Earlier today, Microsoft announced the launch of a new Bing Chat campaign. It’s designed to help provide users with insightful information on how they can leverage the tool’s full capabilities to create more and remain inspired.

According to Microsoft via an email:

Four months after Microsoft introduced the new Bing and began to transform the expectations and experiences of Search, people have engaged in more than half a billion chats, created more than 200 million images with Bing Image Creator, and usage of the Bing mobile app has increased 8x since launch.

The company further cites that despite being able to hit these numbers, users are yet to leverage the tool’s full potential, which is why it’s launching the Bing Chat campaign. “Microsoft’s campaign aims to address this challenge by sparking creativity and curiosity to highlight the new possibilities of asking more fun and compelling questions,” Microsoft told OnMSFT.

The campaign will essentially help users learn how to give prompts, opening them up to a new world with endless possibilities. Here are a couple of illustrations of how much you can exploit the tool’s capabilities to get the exact response you might be looking for:

New Bing Chat Campaign

Microsoft should roll out additional campaign assets across digital, social, and OOH platforms in the next few weeks. You can check out more prompts here.

In the past, we’ve seen reports surface online with several users citing instances where the chatbot had hallucinated or outrightly given wrong responses. Perhaps, this campaign will help users learn how to use the tool properly, ultimately helping them make the most out of it.

How do you make your prompts while using Bing Chat? Share your experience with us in the comments.

How to Test & Adjust Your Microphone on Windows 10

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The Microphone settings allow other people to hear the sound input from your computer. However, it can be difficult for other users to hear the audio from your device if the microphone is not properly tuned and configured.

So, we’ll discuss how to test and adjust your microphone on Windows 10. Alternatively, you can check our detailed guide to fix the laptop not using the headset microphone on Windows PCs.

How do I hear what my microphone sounds like?

  1. Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and select Sounds.
  2. Then, go to the Recording tab, select your microphone, and click Properties.
  3. Now, select Listen from the new tab, check the box for Listen to this device, and click Apply.
  4. After this, you should be able to hear how you sound with the microphone.

This process is essential when testing the microphone or adjusting its settings. Knowing how you sound will aid you in making the right tweaks to the microphone to improve its quality output.

How can I test and adjust the microphone on Windows 10?

1. Via the Settings app

  1. If you use an external microphone, ensure it is connected to the device.
  2. Press Windows + I key to open the Windows Settings app.
  3. Then, select System and click on Sound from the options.
  4. In Sound settings, go to the Input tab.
  5. Go to the Test your microphone option and check if the blue slider rises and falls as you speak into your microphone. If the bar is moving, then your microphone is working.
  6. To adjust the sound click on Device properties.
  7. Adjust the Input volume by moving the slider to the right to increase it and to the left to reduce it.

2. Via Speaker settings

  1. Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and select Sounds.
  2. Go to the Recording tab.
  3. Under the list of microphones, check if your microphone is enabled.
  4. If the microphone is greyed out and labeled as Disabled, right-click on it and select Enable from the drop-down menu.
  5. Speak into the microphone and check if the sound meter against the microphone displays green bars. If it does, it means the microphone is working perfectly.

In conclusion, we recommend you read our article on enabling and setting up your Microphone on Windows computers.

Also, you can read our comprehensive guide about what to do if the microphone volume is too low on Windows 10.

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

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Western Digital officially announces its new Xbox Series X|S expansion cards

Posted on by Robert Collins

A new storage solution for Xbox Series X|S owners has finally arrived thanks to Western Digital. While we previously reported that these were coming soon thanks to a leak on the Best Buy website, The San Jose-based company has now officially announced its two new expansion cards for the console and they are now available for purchase (see below).

Western Digital is Seagate’s first competitor when it comes to Series X|S storage expansion. These cards are a bit more affordable than Seagate’s offerings, although Seagate did (finally) give its cards a permanent price cut just last month, likely in anticipation of Western Digital’s announcement. Hopefully this will mark the beginning of more affordable storage Xbox Series X|S options.

To be clear, other storage options are usable, including non-SSD ones. However, to take advantage of the Xbox Series consoles’ speed and performance, these official storage solutions are needed. The Quick Resume feature requires either the Xbox’s internal SSD or these expansion cards, and some games require it outright to play.

Featured image via The Verge. 

0xc0000242 Boot Configuration Error: How to Fix it

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Windows users complain about the Boot BCD Error 0xc0000242 that occurs during startup. The error doesn’t allow you to sign into your computer. However, we’ll take you through some detailed steps for resolving the problem.

Alternatively, you can check our article about ways to fix slow boot issues on your Windows 11 PC and make it faster.

What causes the 0xc0000242 boot configuration error?

Several factors liable to cause the error are:

  • Corrupted BCD Store – If the BCD store is corrupted or contains incorrect entries, it can result in the 0xc0000242 error.
  • Misconfigured boot settings – Incorrect boot settings or misconfigurations within the BCD store can result in Windows 11 not booting. This can happen if changes were manually made to the boot configuration or by third-party software.
  • Disk errors or failure – Errors or failures in the hard disk or storage device where the BCD store is located can cause boot configuration errors. Issues like bad sectors, file system corruption, or disk failure can prevent Windows from accessing the necessary boot information.
  • Hardware issues – Faulty or incompatible hardware components, such as a failing hard drive, malfunctioning memory modules, or connectivity issues, can affect the boot process and trigger the error.

These factors may vary on different computers depending on the circumstances. Nonetheless, we’ll discuss effective steps for resolving the issue on Windows 11.

How can I fix the 0xc0000242 boot configuration error?

1. Use the repair your computer menu

  1. Insert the Windows installation disk or connect a bootable USB flash drive containing the Windows 11 installation files.
  2. Start the computer and boot the computer from the drive.
  3. Select the language and keyboard if prompted, then click Next.
  4. Click on Repair your computer in the screen’s bottom left corner.
  5. Click on Troubleshoot.
  6. Then, select Startup Repair among the available options.
  7. After completing the startup repair, Restart your system and check if you can log in to your PC normally.

You can read about ways to fix the UEFI Boot problems in Windows PCs.

2. Use Windows Recovery Environment

  1. Boot your computer using a Windows installation USB or DVD to open the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
  2. Select your language preferences and click Next.
  3. On the next screen, click Repair your computer.
  4. Choose Troubleshoot and then select Advanced options.
  5. From the advanced options, select Command Prompt.
  6. In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter: bootrec /rebuildbcd
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions if any is provided.
  8. Try restarting your PC and checking if the Oxc0000242 boot configuration error persists.

The above command will scan for Windows installations and rebuild the BCD store.

3. Manually rebuild the BCD

  1. Access the Windows Recovery Environment as mentioned in the previous step and repeat 2-5 to open the Command Prompt.
  2. Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each command: bootrec /fixmbr   bootrec /fixboot   bootrec /scanos    bootrec /rebuildbcd

These commands will repair the Master Boot Record (MBR), fix the boot sector, scan for Windows installations, and rebuild the BCD store.

4. Clean install Windows

  1. Insert a bootable USB drive or DVD into your computer.
  2. Restart your computer and repeatedly press the Del or F12 key to access the BIOS/UEFI settings, then choose Boot Device.
  3. Select your USB drive and press Enter; the computer will boot from the USB drive.
  4. Select your language preferences, time, and keyboard layout, and click Next.
  5. Click Install Now to start the installation process.
  6. Enter your valid Windows product key when prompted.
  7. Accept the license terms and follow the on-screen instructions to proceed.
  8. Select the Custom installation option to perform a clean install.
  9. Choose the partition where you want to install Windows or create new partitions if needed, then click Next.
  10. Windows will start the installation process, which may take some time.
  11. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

Conclusively, you may be interested in our guide on fixing PC stuck on choosing an operating system window.

Kindly leave your questions and suggestions in the comments section if you have any.

Here’s what to expect from next week’s Xbox Games Showcase

Posted on by Robert Collins

This year’s Xbox Games Showcase is right around the corner, streaming on Sunday, June 11 starting at 1pm Eastern (a list of start times and where to watch can be found here). The highly anticipated event is the second major showcase of the season following the PlayStation Showcase in late May.

The Xbox Games Showcase promises to be packed with all kinds of exiting reveals, news, gameplay footage and more for Xbox fans and gamers in general. What should we expect from the event? Read on to find out, starting with the likely highlights of the show.

A new look at Forza Motorsport

The latest sim racer from Turn 10 will almost certainly show up, and likely in a big way as the game is still slated to release this year—likely sometime in the fall. As Forza Motorsport is a proven franchise and one of Xbox Game Studio’s tentpole IPs, we would expect it to take a place of prominence in the showcase. Expect a new deep dive feature with lots of new footage of the game.

More on Fable (finally)

Last week we reported that Xbox strongly suggested on its Twitter account that the new Fable game would be present at the showcase. This reboot was first announced back at the Xbox Games Showcase in 2020 with a reveal trailer. Three years later, we still don’t know much about it, but it seems likely that that will soon change.

Starfield Direct

Starfield on Steam

This will be an entirely separate showcase immediately following the Xbox Games Showcase. Starfield is one of the most anticipated games of recent memory, and Xbox has a lot riding on its success. Starfield will finally release in just a few short months on September 6, so the game has to be in a near-finished state at this point.

The Starfield Direct event will no doubt give us a deep dive into the upcoming open world action-RPG and the team behind it at Bethesda Game Studios. Expect plenty of new gameplay footage and developer interviews. With the game’s release immanent, we would also look for an appearance from BGS director Todd Howard himself.

An all-new game reveal

Gears 6: Release Date News, Leaks and Everything We Know | Turtle Beach Blog

As it did with Hi-Fi Rush during the Xbox & Bethesda Developer_Direct back in January, Xbox may just end the showcase with the unveiling of a previously unseen game. Could it be Gears 6? There’s been some buzz surrounding this as-yet unannounced title recently. Or perhaps an all-new IP?

Other things to expect during  the Xbox Games Showcase

Here is a list of other things we would expect to see.

  • Avowed gameplay trailer
  • Halo Infinite season 4 tease
  • Hellblade 2 release date announcement
  • Bethesda’s Indiana Jones game first look trailer
  • An update on The Outer Worlds 2
  • Xbox Series X|S Pro reveal? (that one might be a bit of a stretch, but we’re hopeful!)

Tell us your Xbox Games Showcase predictions

So what are some of your predictions for what we’ll see at the Xbox Games Showcase? Let us know down in the comments what you think Xbox is going to show off at this year’s event. And don’t forget to tune in on June 11.

Event ID 4660: An Object was Deleted [Fix]

Posted on by Afam Onyimadu

A few of our readers have come across event ID 4660. They often are unsure what to make of it, so we explain in this guide.

The event ID 4660 is often logged when an object is deleted, so we will also explore some practical ways to fix it on your computers.

What is event ID 4660?

The event ID 4660 is related to objects on the Active Directory and will be triggered by any of the following:

  • Object deletion – A security event with event ID 4660 is recorded whenever an object is deleted from Active Directory.
  • Manual changes – When a user or administrator manually changes an object’s permissions, Event ID 4660 may be generated. This may occur while altering permission settings, modifying access levels, or adding or deleting people or groups.
  • Malicious activity – The event ID may also happen if someone attempting to change an object’s rights does so with illegal access. This can signify a security lapse or an effort to access confidential files or folders without authorization.
  • System updates – To improve security or address vulnerabilities, certain system upgrades, such as Windows updates or security patches, may change the rights of particular objects triggering the event ID.
  • Software installations – Some software installations may modify permissions on specific files or folders as part of the installation process.

How do I fix event ID 4660?

First, you may try these easy workarounds:

If the error is evident after these prefixes, proceed to the solutions below.

1. Restore the object from a backup

  1. Open the Active Directory Users and Computers console.
  2. Locate the object you want to restore, right-click the object, and select Restore.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore the object.

2. Roll back updates

  1. .Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. On the left pane, click Windows update, then click Update history on the right.
    event id 4660
  3. Select Uninstall updates.
  4. Click the Uninstall button to remove any updates made.
    event id 4660
  5. Finally, start the computer and verify if it fixes the event ID 4660.

3. Perform a system restore

  1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
    event id 4660
  2. Select Choose a different restore point and hit Next.
    event id 4660
  3. Select a restore point and click Next.
  4. Finally, click Finish and verify it fixes event ID 4660.

In the future, you may prevent the event ID by implementing a strong security policy. A strong security policy can help to prevent unauthorized access to your system.

Additionally, we recommend backing up your system regularly, as it can help you restore objects deleted by malicious users or hardware failures and use a robust antivirus.

That is all we have to share in this article. If you have additional questions, leave us a comment in the comment section below, and we will respond.

Xbox 360 Controller Driver for Windows 10 [Download & Update]

Posted on by Afam Onyimadu

PC gaming is one of the biggest gaming niches. But you would need specific drivers to make this a seamless endeavor, especially when using native console controllers. A few readers have wondered how to get the Xbox 360 controller driver on Windows 10.

So in this guide, we walk you through all the important steps from downloading to updating the driver so that you may enjoy a seamless gaming experience.

Can the Xbox 360 controller work on Windows 10?

The popular Xbox 360 controller is compatible with Windows 10. However, you must install the correct drivers to utilize the controller. It will work in either of the following scenarios:

  • Wired connection – A USB cable is required to connect the Xbox 360 controller to a Windows 10 computer. Any USB cable will do, although a USB cable made especially for gaming can provide a stronger connection.
  • Wireless connection – Up to four Xbox 360 controllers may be linked to a Windows 10 PC using the Xbox 360 Wireless Gaming Receiver. This USB gadget is sold in Microsoft Store and other 3rd-party outlets.

How do I download the Xbox 360 controller driver on a Windows 10 device?

1. Driver download and installation for wired controllers

  1. Connect the Xbox controller to your Windows 10 PC using a USB cable. You should hear a connection beep and get a small pop notification.
  2. Click on the Setting up device notification to open the device settings.
    xbox 360 controller driver windows 10
  3. Finally, under Other devices, click on Unknown device (it may have a different name on your computer). Your Xbox 360 controller driver should now be installed on the Windows 10 device.
    xbox 360 controller driver windows 10

2. Driver download and installation for wireless controllers

  1. First, plug the wireless receiver into your Windows 10 device and make sure it shows the green light.
  2. Hot the middle X button on the controller.
  3. Press Windows + R on your PC keyboard to open the Run dialog, then type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter.
    xbox 360 controller driver windows 10
  4. Expand Other devices, rightclick on Unknown devices and select Update Driver Software.
  5. Click Browse my computer for driver software, and hit Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
  6. Scroll down to the bottom, select Xbox 360 Peripherals, and hit Next.
  7. Lastly, click on the newest Xbox 360 Wireless Receiver.
  8. You should hear a beep showing that your drivers are installed and updated.

How do I update the Xbox 360 controller driver on Windows 10?

To update the driver after installation, you must use the Device Manager, as shown in Solution 2 above.

Note that there is no separate download link for Xbox 360 controller drivers for Windows 10, as they have been discontinued. So, you must use the automatic installation prompts for wired controllers or update from the wireless receiver installed on your computer.

And that is all we cover in this guide. You should be able to play any of your favorite games after using the solutions we show in this guide.

Finally, let us know in the comments section if you have any other ways of getting the Xbox 360 controller driver on Windows 10. Our readers would like to hear from you.

Microsoft settles with FTC for $20 million over Xbox child data violations

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft will have to pay a hefty sum of $20 million to pay the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). According to a press release by the FTC, the company was found to be violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

Upon investigation, Microsoft was found to be collecting data from Xbox accounts belonging to children under 13 without their parents’ consent. This is contrary to stipulations by COPPA where online services are supposed to notify parents what data they are collecting from kids under the age of 13 and how the information will be used.

As you might already be aware, to play Xbox games and even use its services, you must first create a personal account and provide your personal details, including your name, date of birth, and email address. Until 2021, users were required to provide contact details and agree to Microsoft’s advertising policy.

The FTC’s investigations further uncovered that Microsoft only asked kids under the age of 13 to get their parents to complete the signup process for them after they had provided their personal credentials. It was also discovered that from 2015 through to 2020, the company allegedly collected and stored the information from the children, despite the parents not completing the account creation process.

As such, this breaches the FTC’s rule where online services are required to have parental consent before using personal data obtained from underage children. Microsoft’s CVP for Xbox Player Services, Dave McCarthy disclosed that the company didn’t intentionally keep the personal data from the underaged kids and indicated that a “technical glitch” caused the issue.

McCarthy further detailed the company made this discovery while looking into this matter and that the engineering team has since resolved the issue and deleted the data retained from the children’s Xbox accounts without parental consent. He added that the data wasn’t used, shared, or monetized anywhere.

Regrettably, we did not meet customer expectations and are committed to complying with the order to continue improving upon our safety measure. We believe that we can and should do more, and we’ll remain steadfast in our commitment to safety, privacy, and security for our community.

Moving forward, per the DOJ’s proposed order, Microsoft will be required to streamline its account creation process for children. The company has already tweaked the process and will now require the user to provide their date of birth and, if found to be underage, seek parental consent before proceeding with the account setup process. Additionally, if you created an Xbox account before May 2021 while under the age of 13, you’ll be required to seek for parental consent before continuing to use the services in the next couple of months.

How to Turn Off Chat History from ChatGPT

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

ChatGPT is a popular AI chatbot developed by OpenAI and has created a storm within months of its release. Though other companies have been trying to catch up, releasing their chatbots, ChatGPT remains at the top. But many are concerned with ChatGPT storing chat history.

This presents a problem, one that is concerning to privacy-oriented users. However, it shouldn’t be an issue, with ChatGPT allowing users to turn off chat history and even providing an option to delete the existing chat history. Keep reading to find out more!

How do I turn off Char History from ChatGPT?

  1. Go to OpenAI’s login page, and sign in with your account credentials.chatgpt
  2. Select ChatGPT from the options to proceed.
  3. Now, click on the ellipsis near the bottom left, and select Settings from the flyout menu.settings
  4. Go to Data controls from the navigation pane, and then disable the toggle for Chat History & Training.disable toggle to Turn Off Chat history from ChatGPT
  5. Once done, the ChatGPT page will read, Chat History is off for this browser.chat history disabled

That’s all! It’s this simple to turn off chat history from ChatGPT.

But does ChatGPT not store the history now? The answer would be no, and the chat history will still be saved for a period of 30 days before the final deletion. However, it will only be used to monitor and review cases of abuse, as claimed in OpenAI’s blog post.

Does ChatGPT save history?

Yes, ChatGPT saves all the chat history, be it the questions from your end or the responses it presents. And the same can be accessed from your OpenAI account.

The chat history is saved for OpenAI to assess the queries and responses that will aid its AI model’s future development. This ensures that ChatGPT comes up with better and more curated responses the next time a similar question is presented.

How do I delete chat history on ChatGPT?

  1. Open your ChatGPT profile, click on the account near the bottom-left corner, and select Clear conversations.clear conversations
  2. From the same menu, then select, Confirm clear conversations to delete each one to date.confirm clear conversations
  3. ChatGPT won’t show the conversations on the left

While turning off the chat history on ChatGPT is one thing, the previous conversations may present a problem. And it’s best to delete them when sharing an account with others if you don’t intend to use the AI chatbot anymore or prefer a clutter-free experience.

That’s all for now! Before you leave, we recommend you find out how to integrate ChatGPT with WhatsApp and make the most of the two.

And if your choice has something to do with the fact it currently stores conversations in a chat history meant to last for about 90 days, we have good news: it seems that Copilot’s chat history is about to get expanded.

For any queries or to share your feedback on ChatGPT and the associated privacy concerns, drop a comment below.

Learn more

A Service Installation Section in This INF Is Invalid [Error Fix]

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Drivers form a vital part of the OS and ensure the connected devices work seamlessly. But in some cases, Windows doesn’t recognize the mobile phone or other devices, and when updating the drivers, the A service installation section in this INF is invalid error appears.

Remember, for the effective functioning of devices, you need to install compatible and updated drivers. And while Windows usually takes care of it, you sometimes encounter driver issues. Keep reading to find out the solutions!

What is A service installation section in this INF is invalid?

The error indicates that the provided instructions in the INF (Setup Information File) are invalid. It is generally due to an incorrect device category, but we can’t seem to ignore the driver issues.

Here are a few reasons you can’t install or update the mobile driver:

  • Outdated drivers are installed: A common reason behind the problem is corrupt or outdated drivers, and you will find such devices with a warning sign next to their icon in the Device Manager.
  • Corrupt system files: For some users, it was the corrupt system files that caused the error, and replacing them with a fresh copy fixed things.
  • Missing components: Several vital components are required for the installation of drivers, and when any of these are missing, you might get the A service installation section in this INF is invalid error.
  • Windows Update triggering issues: In a few cases, a recent Windows update caused the error, primarily due to a bug.

How do I fix A service installation section in this INF is invalid error?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones first:

  • Unplug the device, restart the PC, reconnect it, and check whether it’s working.
  • Install all pending Windows updates. Also, check for the optional ones, including driver updates. If the other device is a mobile phone, make sure it’s running the latest version of the OS.

If none work, move to the fixes listed below.

1. Run the DISM and SFC scan

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.cmd
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Now, paste the following commands individually and hit Enter after each for the DISM tool: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Next, execute this command to run the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc scan to fix A Service Installation Section in This INF Is Invalid Error
  5. Once done, restart the computer.

When it’s the corrupt system files preventing the installation of drivers, your primary approach should be to run the DISM commands and the SFC scan. The two, when combined, will identify corrupt or damaged files and replace them with a cached copy stored on the PC.

This worked for a user facing the A service installation section in this INF is invalid error while updating the network adapter’s driver.

2. Install wpdmtp.inf

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, paste the following path in the address bar, and hit Enter:C:\Windows\INFpath
  2. Search for the wpdmtp.inf file.
  3. Now, right-click on it, and select Install.install to fix A Service Installation Section in This INF Is Invalid Error
  4. Wait for the installation to complete, and then try installing the appropriate drivers for the mobile.

3. Manually install the driver

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and then select Device Manager from the list.device manager
  2. Locate the affected device, right-click on it, and select Update driver.update driver to fix A service installation section in this INF is invalid error
  3. Click on Browse my computer for drivers.browse my computer
  4. Select Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.pick from a list
  5. Now, choose MTP USB Device and click on Next.MTP USB Device to fix A service installation section in this INF is invalid error
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

A quick solution to fix things when getting the A service installation section in this INF is invalid error while installing the mobile driver is to select MTP USB Device instead of MTP Device during driver installation.

Instead of installing manually, it’s more efficient to use a dedicated driver application that will detect and automatically install your drivers much faster.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Reinstall the driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager
  2. Locate the problematic device that’s throwing the error, right-click on it, and select Uninstall device.uninstall device to fix A service installation section in this INF is invalid error
  3. Tick the checkbox for Attempt to remove the driver for this device, and click Uninstall.uninstall to fix A service installation section in this INF is invalid error
  4. Once done, manually install the driver you downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.
  5. In case you can’t find any, restart the computer, and Windows will automatically install a fresh copy of the best available driver.

If you got the error while trying to install a version downloaded from the manufacturer’s website, it could be an issue with the file itself. And this case, we recommend you re-download the driver setup and then install it via Device Manager.

5. Uninstall recent Windows Update

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, select Windows Update from the navigation pane, and click on Update history.update history
  2. Scroll down to the bottom, and click on Uninstall updates.uninstall updates to fix A service installation section in this INF is invalid error
  3. Now, click Uninstall next to the recent update, after installing which, the error first appeared.uninstall
  4. Again, click Uninstall in the confirmation prompt.
  5. Finally, restart the computer for the changes to apply.

Many users reported the A service installation section in this INF is invalid error after installing the latest Windows updates. If a newer version with a patch is not available, you can always uninstall the update.

Before you leave, check the most reliable driver updater software and get one to automatically update the installed drivers and prevent such errors from arising.

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

Bindflt.sys Blue Screen: How to Fix It in 5 Steps

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Experiencing the dreaded bindflt.sys Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error can be frustrating and disruptive to your computer usage. The error is associated with the bindflt.sys driver.

Bindflt is a Windows Bind Filter driver service that binds file system namespaces to different locations and hides remapping from the users. If it fails to start, you can see an error logged in Event Viewer.

In this guide, we will walk you through a set of steps to help you fix this blue screen error right after discussing the causes of the issue.

What causes the bindflt.sys Blue Screen of Death error?

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

  • Incompatible drivers – If the bindflt.sys driver or other related drivers are outdated or incompatible with your computer; it could trigger to BSoD error. Try updating your drivers on your PC.
  • Driver interference – Conflicts between different drivers on your machine can create instability, thereby triggering the Blue Screen of Death error.
  • Faulty hardware – A malfunctioning or incompatible hardware component, such as a network card or USB device, can lead to this error. Check the hardware component to be sure.
  • Malware infection – Malicious software can corrupt or modify system files, including drivers, leading to BSoD errors. Run a deep scan using an antivirus tool.
  • System file corruption – Corruption of critical system files, including the driver file, can result from software conflicts, improper shutdowns, or disk errors. Run an SFC scan to repair the system files.

Now you know the causes of the BSoD error; let us dive into the troubleshooting methods.

How can I fix the bindflt.sys Blue Screen of Death error?

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

  • Try restarting your computer.
  • Make sure your Windows is up to date.
  • Check the hardware components to ensure everything is in place.

If you have been through the tweaks, move to the detailed methods to find the solutions.

1. Run SFC and DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd and click Run as administrator.bindflt.sysCommand Prompt Windows Run as Administrator
  2. Type the following command to repair system files and press Enter: SFC /scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD bindflt.sys
  3. Once the scan is executed, copy & paste the following command to repair Windows OS image files and hit Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth Restore health
  4. Wait for the command to be completed, Windows will connect to the Update server to repair the Windows OS image. Type the following command and hit Enter: sc config bindflt start= demand
  5. Restart your computer to save the changes.

In addition, there is another efficient method in case the steps didn’t solve the issue and you still get BSoD errors.

Hence, you may try a cutting-edge system repair solution to diagnose your PC and troubleshoot every issue in a beat.

2. Modify the Start value for bindflt

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.Regedit bindflt.sys
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\bindfltregedit_ start
  4. Locate Start and double-click it.
  5. Change the Value data to 3 to make it Manual (Demand).
  6. Reboot your computer to let the changes take effect.

3. Disable features from the Turn Windows features on or off

  1. Press the Windows key, type control panel and click Open.CP Windows 10 bindflt.sys
  2. Select Category as View by and click Programs.View Windows Features on or off
  3. Under Programs and Features, click Turn Windows features on or off.
  4. Remove the checkmark next to Windows Sandbox, then click OK.Windows Sandbox
  5. Now click Restart now to save the changes on your computer.OptionalFeatures_Restart now
  6. Open the Turn Windows features on or off again, and remove the checkmark next to Hyper V.Hyper V
  7. Click OK and the changes will be made.
  8. Now, click Restart now to save the changes on your computer.OptionalFeatures_Restart now

4. Disable the Windows Security app temporarily

  1. Press the Windows key, type windows security, and click Open.
  2. Click Virus & threat protection and click Manage Settings.Manage Settings
  3. Under Real-time protection, toggle off the switch to disable antivirus temporarily.Real-time protection

Windows Security will be active once you restart your computer.

5. Run a disk check

  1. Press Windows +E to open the File Explorer window.Properties Local Disk bindflt.sys
  2. Go to This PC, then right-click the System Drive and select Properties.
  3. Switch to the Tools tab, select Error checking and click Check.Error Checking _ CHECK
  4. Click Scan drive.scan drive

The tool will scan for the bad sectors on your computer. If they are detected, remember that Windows can’t fix them. You need to use a third-party tool or perform a clean installation of Windows to fix it.

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