Ib.adnxs.com Keeps Popping up: How to Remove It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

If you’ve ever been browsing on the Internet and you opened a page only to be redirected to another, then you are well aware of browser hijacking. It seems that ib.adnxs.com is the latest browser hijacking scheme, as it keeps popping up.

While we all try to be careful while browsing, you never know what site could set you off and bring along these unwanted pop-ups. If you’ve been a victim of this annoying ad pop-up, we share how to get rid of it.

Is ib.adnxs.com a virus?

A quick search on the Internet to visit the ib.adnxs.com site at the time of writing this article does not yield any results. This leads us to believe it is a deceptive site or the domain doesn’t exist.

On the question of whether Ib.adns.com is a virus, we can’t rule out the possibility, but it can be categorized as a Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA). 

It may display advertisements on the Internet or redirect you to potentially dangerous sites where your system may pick up adware and virus infections.

These ads may appear on any website you visit when using your browser, so it may be difficult to pinpoint the site that brought about the ib.adnxs.com ad.

However, a question that is on everyone’s mind is how it found its way to your PC. We were able to come up with some possible reasons:

  • Suspicious sites – You may knowingly or unknowingly clicked on a video or link that redirected you to the ib.adnxs.com site. Sometimes, closing the pop-up works, but if it is constantly popping up, your system may already be compromised.
  • Browser extensions – We all love how browser plugins enhance functionality, but not all are for the good of your system. Some actually contain malicious code that have the ability to change your browser settings.
  • Downloading software from unknown sources – You may have downloaded an app from third-party sites such as torrent sites. Sometimes, looking for additional apps brings something extra that is not so welcome.

How do you remove ib.adnxs.com?

1. Scan for viruses 

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

If you’re still experiencing the ib.adnxs.com pop-up after a full scan, Windows security was probably insufficient to remove the adware. Removing adware is not always a simple task. Especially if the software has already installed itself on your computer.

In such cases, you’ll need reinforcement from a stronger fighter. We recommend TotalAV. It has strong antivirus features and offers protection against phishing attacks and malicious websites.

The program also scans all web pages for suspicious code and blocks them if necessary so that no damage can be done to your PC when browsing online or downloading applications from unknown sources.

⇒ Get TotalAV

2. Uninstall recently installed programs 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar, and click Open.control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  2. Navigate to Programs and select Uninstall a program.going uninstall program control panel
  3. Find any recently installed programs right after the ib.adnx.com pop-ups became a nuisance, right-click and select Uninstall.

3. Remove browser extensions 

  1. Navigate to your browser, and in a new tab, enter the following address: chrome://extensions/
  2. Examine any suspicious addons you didn’t install yourself and click Remove.
  3. Repeat these steps until you find the culprit.

4. Reset your browser

  1. For this step, it will depend on the browser you’re using. In our case, we shall be using Chrome.
  2. Launch your Chrome browser and click on the three vertical ellipses at the top right corner.
  3. Select Settings.Settings CHrome
  4. Next, click on Reset and cleanup, then select Restore settings to their original defaults.
  5. Confirm Reset settings in the next dialog box.

Hopefully, these steps will help you rid your browser of the ib.adnxs.com pop-up. If persistent, you may have to perform a System Restore or clean install Windows.

In the future, to prevent such occurrences, ensure that:

  • Don’t click on links in emails from unfamiliar senders
  • Be careful when visiting a website that isn’t reputable
  • Install a good firewall in your system
  • Run anti-spyware programs regularly on your computer

Let us know how you deal with adware in the comment section below.

winbio.dll Missing or Not Found: How to Fix It

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

If you see the error message winbio.dll file is missing or winbio.dll was not found, a crucial component of the Windows Biometric Framework (WBF) is deleted, corrupted, or inaccessible.

The winbio.dll missing error can occur during system startup, biometric authentication, application launch, or driver installation/update.

What is winbio.dll?

Winbio.dll file, also known as Windows Biometrics Client API, is a dynamic library developed by Microsoft for the Windows Operating system. It contains the necessary functions and resources for implementing and utilizing the Windows Biometric Framework (WBF) on Windows.

It allows developers to interact with biometric devices and implement biometric authentication features in their applications using the Windows Biometrics Client API. Here are some possible causes winbio.dll missing error :

  • File corruption or deletion: The winbio.dll file may have been accidentally deleted or corrupted by a user, a software installation, or a malware infection, which can trigger the missing DLL error.
  • Malware or virus infection: Malicious software can sometimes target system files, including winbio.dll, leading to its deletion or corruption.
  • Software conflict: Conflicts between different software applications or incompatible drivers can result in the deletion or corruption of the winbio.dll file.
  • Hardware issues: Problems with the hardware components associated with biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanners or facial recognition cameras, can lead to the winbio.dll missing error.
  • Incorrect registry entries: Improper modifications or changes in the Windows Registry related to the winbio.dll file can prevent it from being recognized or cause it to go missing.

How can I fix the winbio.dll missing or not found error?

Before diving into more complex solution, try these prerequisite solutions:

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches or issues.
  • Update Windows: Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date. Windows updates often include fixes for known issues and can replace missing or corrupted system files.

1. Reinstall The Microsoft Visual C ++ Redistributable Package

  1. Go to the Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable download page, choose the language, and click the Download button.download the Visual C ++ Redistributable Package
  2. Select the vc_redist.X64.exe option and click Next. For the 32-bit operating system, select vc_redist.X86.exe.vc_redist.X64.exe
  3. Once the file is downloaded, run the EXE file and follow the instructions to re-install the package.run the exe
  4. Then, reboot your computer.

2. Manually download the DLL file

  1. Visit the official software websites or trusted DLL file repositories like DLL-Files.com.download the dll
  2. Download the DLL file that corresponds to the version of your operating system (either 32-bit or 64-bit).
  3. Perform a thorough antivirus or anti-malware scan on the downloaded DLL file for safety.
  4. Place the DLL file in the appropriate directory.
  5. For 32-bit DLL, place it in the following folder:C:\Windows\System32System32
  6. For 64-bit DLL, paste in the following location: C:\Windows\SysWOW64\SysWOW64
  7. Restart your computer and check if the error is fixed.

In case the steps above are taking too long or it seem too complicated, there is a useful alternative for it.

Thus, you can employ a tailored system repair solution that fixes DLL issues automatically and finds missing files from its rich database of authorized DLL files.

3. Re-register the DLL file

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open the Command prompt in administrator mode.cmd
  2. Click on Yes on the User Account Control (UAC) prompt window. 
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:regsvr32 winbio.dllregv32 winbio
  4. Restart your computer to save the changes.

4. Run a System File Checker (SFC) and DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key, type command prompt, and select Run as administrator.cmd
  2. Click Yes to the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
  3. Enter the following command and press Enter:sfc /scannowsfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the scan to complete, then run the following command one after the other:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthDISM scan
  5. Then, reboot your PC.

5. Perform a system restore

  1. Open the Windows Start menu, type restore, and click Create a restore point.create restore porint
  2. In the System Properties window and click the System Restore button.system restore
  3. Then, select Choose a different restore point, and click Next.choose a different restore point
  4. In the next window, select the restore point, and click Next.select the restore point
  5. Then, click Finish to start the system restore process.click Finish

If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to consider more advanced troubleshooting, such as performing a Windows reset or reinstalling the Windows.

If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

You Need to Authenticate to Microsoft Services [Minecraft Fix]

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Minecraft is a popular game played by users worldwide and is available on several platforms. While downloading Minecraft doesn’t seem like a hassle, the errors you encounter certainly do. One such that affected many is You need to authenticate to Microsoft services.

Since Minecraft made it mandatory for users to sign in with a Microsoft account, errors like these are common. But it isn’t always an issue at your end to blame. Keep reading to find out all about the problem!

What does authenticate to Microsoft services mean on Minecraft?

The error indicates that Minecraft couldn’t reach Microsoft services, which resulted in an authentication issue. And since it’s mandatory now, you can’t run the game without completing the authentication.

Here are a few reasons users get the You need to authenticate to Microsoft services error:

  • Issues with the Internet connection: For most users, it was a slow Internet connection to blame. So make sure you check that.
  • Misconfigured network settings: Even misconfigured network settings or security policies set over the connection can lead to the error.
  • Missing administrative privileges: When the launcher is missing administrative privileges, the error may appear for many users.

How do I fix Minecraft You need to authenticate to Microsoft services?

Before we move to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick tricks:

  • Check for any issues with the Minecraft servers using the dedicated status page or from a reliable real-time service like Downdetector. In case of downtime, try again in a few hours.
  • Restart the computer.
  • For You need to authenticate to Microsoft services in Minecraft on Xbox, press the power button on the console to turn it off, disconnect the power cord for a minute, then reconnect it and turn on the console.
  • Re-sign into Minecraft on the device, and make sure you use the Microsoft account credentials this time.
  • Connect to a different network. For instance, if you are currently using Wi-Fi, switch to Ethernet or mobile hotspot and check whether the You need to authenticate to Microsoft services Windows 10 error disappears.
  • Install the latest version of the OS and update the Minecraft app.

If none work, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Run as administrator

  1. Locate the bedrock_server.exe file, right-click on it, and select Properties.
  2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab, tick the checkbox for Run as this program as an administrator, and click OK to save the changes.run as administrator to fix you need to authenticate to microsoft services
  3. Once done, restart the computer and then launch Minecraft.

For the You need to authenticate to Microsoft services issue on Minecraft Bedrock, a quick solution is to run the executable file with administrative privileges.

2. Enable the firewall

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Windows Defender Firewall in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.firewall
  2. Click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the left.windows firewall
  3. Now, select Turn on Windows Defender Firewall under both Private network settings and Public network settings, then click on OK to save the changes.enable to fix you need to authenticate to microsoft services

For some users, the You need to authenticate to Microsoft services Windows error appeared due to a disabled firewall, and enabling it worked.

3. Change the server properties

  1. Navigate to the dedicated directory, and open the server.properties file using a text editor.server.properties to fix you need to authenticate to microsoft services
  2. Locate the online-mode entry, and set it to false.set as false

4. Set the correct date and time

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, select Time & language from the navigation pane, and click on Date & time.date & time
  2. Enable to toggle for Set time automatically.set time automatically to fix you need to authenticate to microsoft services

You may get the error if there’s a mismatch between the actual date and time and that set on the PC. Also, while looking at it, check the set time in Minecraft settings. Besides, correcting the date and time will also work in the case of You need to authenticate to Microsoft services on PS4.

5. Reinstall the Minecraft app

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.appwiz.cpl
  2. Select Minecraft from the list of installed programs, and click Uninstall.uninstall to fix you need to authenticate to microsoft services
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  4. Once done, restart the computer, then install Minecraft all over again.

When nothing else works, it could have been a problem with the app installation that triggered the You need to authenticate to Microsoft services realms error. Uninstalling the program and then downloading it from scratch should do the trick.

Before you leave, check some quick tips to make Minecraft run faster on Windows.

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

Fix: The Instruction at 0x000000000 Referenced Memory

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

We often see apps not opening, and the message accompanying the issue lists the underlying cause and helps with the troubleshooting. But that doesn’t always work, as is the case with The instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be written error.

The referenced memory could not be written error can be encountered while launching programs, running games or graphics-intensive apps, or even shutting down the PC. Keep reading to find out all about it!

Why reference memory could not be written?

The error states that the address where the critical information is stored on the RAM is inaccessible to the software, or changes can’t be made to it. The problem can arise due to hardware and software issues, though it’s generally the latter to blame.

Here are a few reasons you get the error:

  • Issues with the RAM: There’s a good chance that high RAM usage or issues with the memory module is triggering the error.
  • Corrupt system files: For a few users, it was the corrupt system files that led to the problem, and replacing these did the trick.
  • Problems with the app files: When the problem was limited to a specific app, it could be missing or corrupt files for that app to blame.
  • Outdated graphics drivers: In some cases, users reported that an outdated graphics driver led to The instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be written error.

How do I fix the instruction at referenced memory could not be written error?

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

  • Restart the computer, in case it’s the high-resource consumption to blame.
  • Check for Windows updates and install any available ones. Then, verify whether the memory could not be written error in Windows 11 is fixed.
  • Disable any third-party antivirus or security software installed on the PC.
  • Make sure you don’t have the taskbar hidden in Windows. Though strange, unhiding the taskbar did do the trick for a few users.

If none work, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Run the DISM and SFC scans

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and then hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.cmd
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Paste the following commands individually and then hit Enter after each for DISM:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Now, run the following command for the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc scan to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written
  5. Once done, restart the computer for the changes to apply.

For cases when it’s the corrupt system files to blame for the error, the easiest solution is to run the DISM tool and SFC scan.

These will replace the corrupt files with the cached copy stored on the PC and get rid of The instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be written error.

Moreover, you can try dedicated third-party repair software to make sure you erase not only corrupt system files but other Windows stability issues as well.

2. Update the graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager.device manager
  2. Expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the graphics adapter, and then select Update driver.update driver to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written
  3. Now, choose Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to install the best one available locally.search automatically for drivers

A corrupt, incompatible, or outdated one can trigger a range of errors, and updating the graphics driver will take care of it all. Besides, if Windows can’t find one locally, you can always manually install the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website.

3. Increase the virtual memory

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type View advanced system settings, and click on the relevant search result. system settings
  2. In the Advanced tab, click on Settings.settings to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written
  3. Now, navigate to the Advanced tab, and then click on Change under Virtual memory.change
  4. Untick the checkbox for Automatically manage paging file size for all drives, select No paging file, and click Set.manually set paging file
  5. Now, choose Custom size and enter the paging file size based on the available RAM using the following formula:
    1. Initial size: 1.5 x (Physical RAM in MB)
    2. Maximum size: 3 x (Physical RAM in MB)custom size to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written
  6. For instance, if the physical RAM is 4 GB, the initial and maximum sizes become 6144 MB (1.5 x 4 x 1042) and 12288 MB (3 x 3 x 1024), respectively.
  7. Once done, click Set and OK to save the changes.save changes

When running out of RAM, a quick solution is to increase the virtual memory in Windows. This part of the disk acts as RAM by temporarily storing files. While it functions the same way as the RAM, it’s not as fast. So, adding virtual memory can’t be a permanent solution.

Remember, this also helps with The instruction at 0x00 referenced memory error.

4. Reinstall the app

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, go to Apps from the navigation pane, and click on Installed apps.installed apps
  2. Click on the ellipsis next to the app throwing the error, and select Uninstall.uninstall to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written
  3. Again, click Uninstall to confirm the change.uninstall
  4. Once done, restart the computer, then download the app from an official source, say the developer’s website or Microsoft Store.

As pointed out on many forums, the error also appears due to an improper app installation or missing files. And in this case, uninstalling the program and getting it from scratch does the trick.

Also, for users getting The instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be written error with Firefox, downloading the 32-bit version of the browser works.

5. Perform a system restore

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type rstrui.exe in the text field, and click OK.rstrui.exe
  2. Select Choose a different restore point, and click Next.choose different restore point
  3. Now, select a restore point, one created before the error first appeared, and click Next.restore to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written
  4. Verify the restore details, and click Finish to start the process.system restore to fix the instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000 the memory could not be written

In case the previous solutions didn’t help, you could perform a system restore and revert any recent changes on the PC that might be triggering the error. This will get rid of any software-related issues.

6. Check for memory issues

When nothing works, it could be a memory-related problem that leads to the error. For that, we have the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic to help identify and eliminate common problems with the RAM.

Also, for a more comprehensive scan, you can use Memtest86+, an open-source memory testing tool that finds even the minutest and most complex issues with the RAM.

Since the tool takes a few hours, it’s best to run it overnight. And if any problems are found, replace the affected RAM module.

By now, you should have fixed The instruction at 0x000000000 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be written error encountered when running apps.

Before you leave, check some quick tips to make Windows faster than ever.

Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.

When will you be able to access the SD card on WSA?

Posted on by Flavius Floare

Microsoft is definitely thinking about Android users. Windows Subsystem for Android has been getting a lot of quality updates lately.

You don’t have to worry about viruses and malware anymore, because now every app will be automatically scanned by anti-virus software. You can also assign the RAM memory however you like, according to the recent updates.

However, there are a lot of people wondering if you can access the SD card on WSA. On the official Microsoft forum, there is a thread on this topic, with one user asking if it’s possible.

I have successfully installed the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), and also successfully installed several applications from the Amazon App Store. I am using a Microsoft Surface Go 3 tablet with a SD Card installed. I’ve been unable to save files from Android applications to the SD Card. The SD Card does not even show up in the Android File explorer. Just the “Subsystem for Android”. Is it possible to mount an SD Card so that Android apps can access?

The answer, unfortunately, is negative, so far at least. There isn’t any official info on how to access the SD card on WSA, but if we talk about the recent love Microsoft has shown to WSA, you might be able to enjoy this feature soon.

The latest WSA update release is here

Speaking of updates, Microsoft released the 2304.40000.5.0 WSA update for Windows 11. It will focus on adding package verification, improved reliability, and AppLink support.sd card on wsa

Below you can see see all the changes:

  • Package verification for apps on WSA: Android apps are scanned using anti-virus software installed on Windows prior to app installation.
  • Ability for users to configure how much memory to assign to Android.
  • Android apps will be launched when a user opens the supported app link from any app (Android AppLink support).
  • Linux kernel updated to 5.15.94
  • WSA reliability and performance improvements

With that being said, Microsoft is also open to feedback for WSA. In the Feedback Hub, which you can access by typing Windows + F, you can write your ideas and suggestions and submit them to the Redmond tech giant.

And if you’re thinking about accessing the SD card on WSA, make sure to let them know. It will be most likely implemented in the near future if there is enough feedback on this issue. Either way, we will pay close attention, and if anything comes up about it, we will let you know.

Would you like to see this feature on Windows Subsystem for Android? Let us know in the comments section below.

File System Error (-1073740791): What Is & How to Fix It

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

We have all come across app errors on PC, be it with the built-in ones or other programs not launching. And while most of these are due to a missing DLL, a few are rather complex in nature. One such is the File system error (-1073740791).

Usually encountered when running apps that require administrative privileges, the Exit code -1073740791 affects a wide range of system apps and often leads to Windows crashing or the PC becoming unresponsive. So, let’s find out all about it!

What is File system error (-1073740791)?

The File system error (-1073740791) arises due to a problem with the OS or the disk. And based on our research, there isn’t much users can do other than reset or reinstall Windows. The reason, most users are unable to run Command Prompt as administrator, which is vital to the troubleshooting process.

Here are a few reasons users get the error message:

  • Corrupt system files: A common reason behind the error is the corrupt system files on the PC, and this may lead to other issues, including a BSOD (Blue Screen of Death).
  • Issues with the disk: The File system error (-1073740791) could result from Windows being unable to read data from the disk, mostly due to a corrupt or damaged sector.
  • Malware or virus infection: A few users reported that the error appeared after malware infected the PC, so you will need to check for that.
  • Missing app files: If the problem is limited to a specific app, chances are that its files are missing, corrupt, or unreadable.

How do I fix File system error (-1073740791)?

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

  • Restart the computer.
  • Install the pending Windows updates.
  • Disable any third-party antivirus on the PC.

If none work, move to the fixes listed next.

Tip icon Tip
You must run Command Prompt with administrative privileges for some solutions here. If you cannot do so, we recommend booting Windows into Safe Mode and then performing the steps. For users facing issues with that as well, the other solutions will surely help.

1. Run the DISM and SFC scans

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.cmd
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Paste the following commands individually and hit Enter after each for DISM:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Next, run the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc scan to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  5. Once done, restart the computer.

In case the File system error (-1073740791) with Task Manager appeared out of the blue, it could be the system files to blame. And in this case, running the DISM tool and SFC scan should help.

Besides that, it’s also helpful to utilize dedicated repair software created by experts to diagnose your Windows OS and repair damaged system files in minutes.

2. Scan for malware

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Windows Security in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.windows security
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.virus & threat protection
  3. Click on Scan options.scan options
  4. Choose Full scan and then click on Scan now.full scan to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  5. Wait for the scan to complete.

If the File system error (-1073740791) with Registry Editor appeared after you downloaded a file or installed an app from an unreliable source, it’s most likely a malware or virus behind it. Run a full system scan to find any. Also, you could use an effective antivirus solution for a thorough scan.

3. Check for disk errors

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Command Prompt, and click on Run as administrator.command prompt
  2. Click Yes in the prompt.
  3. Paste the following command and hit Enter:chkdsk /r /fcheck disk to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  4. If asked to confirm running the scan the next time your PC boots, press Y and then hit Enter.
  5. Restart the computer.

When the problem lies with the disk, the built-in Check Disk utility comes to the aid. Run it and wait for any identified problems to be eliminated. Then verify whether the File system error (-1073740791) while installing programs is fixed.

4. Uninstall Windows updates

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, go to Windows Update from the navigation pane, and click on Update history.update history to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  2. Scroll down and click on Uninstall updates.uninstall updates to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  3. Click on Uninstall next to the recently installed update.uninstall to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  4. Again, click Uninstall in the confirmation prompt.uninstall

5. Create a new user account

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type netplwiz, and hit Enter.netplwiz
  2. Click on Add.add account to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  3. Now, click on Sign in without a Microsoft account.sign in without a microsoft account
  4. Select Local account.local account
  5. Enter the user name, and password (if required), then click on Next.user name
  6. Click on Finish to create a new account.
  7. Select the account you just created, and click Properties.properties
  8. Navigate to the Group Membership tab, choose Administrator, and click OK to save the changes.set as administrator to fix File system error (-1073740791)

For some, a corrupt user profile triggered the File system error (-1073740791). Often the simplest solution here is to create a new user account, set it as administrator, and transfer the data using a USB drive.

6. Perform a system restore

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type rstrui.exe in the text field, and click OK.system restore
  2. Select Choose a different restore point, and click Next.choose a different restore point
  3. Pick a restore point from the list, one created before the error first appeared, and click Next.restore point
  4. Click Finish to start the process.restore to fix File system error (-1073740791)
  5. Wait for the restore process to complete.

In case you can’t identify what’s triggering the error, another option is to perform a system restore using a restore point created prior to the date you first encountered the error. Remember, you may lose some apps, but the personal files remain unaffected.

7. Do an in-place upgrade

Note icon NOTE
The steps here are to perform an in-place upgrade on Windows 11. For Windows 10 users, download the Media Creation Tool, and run the setup to do a repair upgrade.
  1. Go to Microsoft’s official website, choose the edition and product language, then download the Windows 11 ISO.windows 11 iso
  2. Open the ISO file, and then run setup.exe.setup.exe
  3. Click Yes in the prompt that appears.
  4. Click on Next to proceed.next
  5. Now, click Accept to agree to Microsoft’s notices and license terms.accept terms
  6. Verify that the setup reads, Keep personal files and apps, then click on Install to perform an in-place upgrade.in-place upgrade to fix File system error (-1073740791)

When other solutions fail to work against File system error (-1073740791), you can perform an in-place upgrade, wherein the Windows installation is repaired and any issues resolved without affecting the stored files or apps. The process may take a few hours.

Tip icon Tip
If nothing works, we recommend you factory reset the PC or reinstall Windows from scratch.

Before you leave, do check the best Windows security settings for a safer experience and some quick tips to make your PC faster than ever.

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

Invalid MS-DOS Function: How to Fix This File Error

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Advanced PC users use Command Prompt to perform commands quickly, but many reported an Invalid MS DOS function error while trying to do that.

In case you’re not familiar with this feature, we have a great guide that will explain what DOS Command Prompt is, so be sure to check it out.

To tackle this issue, it’s important to understand what causes it, so keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

Why does an Invalid MC DOS function message appear?

There are several reasons for this issue, but the most common are the following:

  • File corruption – Corrupted system files or corrupted data might cause this issue to appear.
  • Registry configuration – If your registry isn’t configured properly, you might encounter this error.

How do I fix Invalid MS DOS function?

Fixing this issue is relatively simple, but before we do that, make sure you try the following:

  • Use Safe Mode – Access Safe Mode on your PC and check if this problem appears. If not, it means there’s an issue with your settings or user profile.

1. Run the SFC command

  1. Press Windows key + X and choose Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Run the following command: sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the process to finish.

Once the command is finished, check if the problem is still there. In case you’re not able to run SFC or if it didn’t fix the issue, run these two commands as well:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Scanhealth

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

2. Run chkdsk scan

  1. Right-click the Start button and choose Windows Terminal (Admin) from the menu.
  2. Now enter the following command, and be sure to replace X with the letter that matches the drive that is giving you this error: chkdsk X: /f

  3. Wait for the scan to finish.

After the scan is finished, check if Invalid MS DOS function error is gone.

3. Modify the registry

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter regedit. Click OK.
  2. Navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System
     
  3. Right-click the right pane and choose New. Next, select DWORD (32-bit Value).
  4. Name the new key CopyFileBufferedSynchronousIo and double-click it.
  5. Change the Value data to 1 and save the changes.
  6. Restart your PC.

These are just some of the solutions that can help you fix an Invalid MS DOS function error on your PC. In most cases, the issue is related to file corruption.

If you’re having more issues, we suggest reading our can’t run CMD as an administrator guide for more potential solutions.

What method did you use to fix this issue? Share it with us in the comments section below.

SSL_Error_Handshake_Failure_Alert: How to Fix

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Sometimes, you cannot access specific websites, which can be caused by ssl_error_handshake_failure_alert error.

This isn’t the only type of error you can encounter, and many reported Handshake failed returned SSL error code 1 error as well. Luckily, we covered that issue in a separate guide. To learn more about this error message and how to fix it, be sure to keep reading.

What causes SSL handshake failure?

There are several reasons for this error, with the following ones being the most common:

  • Protocol mismatch – The server may be using an older security protocol, which can sometimes cause the issue to appear.
  • Expired certificate – If the certificate you’re using has expired, you won’t be able to access the website before you renew it.

How can I fix ssl_error_handshake_failure_alert?

First, contact the server administrators. he servers may be using outdated security protocols, which can cause ssl_error_handshake_failure_alert to appear. Website administrators can only fix this.

1. Change Firefox settings

  1. Copy the hostname that is giving you trouble.
  2. In Firefox, in the address bar enter about:config and press Enter.
  3. Locate security.tls.insecure_fallback_hosts and click the Edit button.
  4. Next, enter the address of the website and save the changes.

After doing that, check if ssl_error_handshake_failure_alert error is resolved.

2. Delete certificates

  1. Click the Menu button and go to Settings.
     
  2. Navigate to the Privacy & Security. Choose View Certificates.
  3. Select the desired certificate and choose Delete or Distrust.
  4. Lastly, select the certificate and click OK.

These are just a couple of solutions that can help you if you’re having problems with ssl_error_handshake_failure_alert error in your browser.

If you are unable to access some websites and stuck with an SSL_ERROR_BAD_CERT_DOMAIN error; we have a separate guide on the issue.

For more information, we have a great guide on SSL cipher mismatch browser error, so be sure to check it out for more solutions. Many users also encountered an error during SSL handshake with a remote server, but we have a guide that addresses it.

We also have a guide for troubleshooting SSL handshake failures on gaming consoles, so don’t miss it if you own a console.

SSL problems, errors, and redirects like the handshake error and the ?gws_rd=ssl error in Google are common, but easy to address. Recently we covered SSL handshake failed error code 525 in another guide, so don’t miss it.

Our latest guide tackles Sec_Error_Bad_Signature in Firefox, so feel free to check it out.

Did we miss a solution that worked for you? If so, feel free to share it with us in the comments section below.

INNOCN 27-inch QHD & G-Sync Supported Computer Monitor Review: Amazingly versatile

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

Starting at $469

As of today, INNOCN is relatively unknown brand to many. Perhaps, for gamers and artists in the “known” the INNCON brand resonates but for most, it’s seemingly another random monitor manufacturer who just might be able to pull an Insignia or Vizio level of brand cache with products such as the INNOCN 27G1S.

OnMSFT got a review sample of the INNOCN 27GS1 which boasts both HDR and G-SYNC out of the box at QHD 1440P resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate panel for around $469.

Size 27″
Resolution 2560 x 1440p
Refresh Rate 240Hz
Panel Type VA
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Contrast Ratio 2500:1 (Typ)
Color Gamut 99% sRGB
Colors 16.7M
HDR HDR10
Response Time 1ms
Connectivity HDMI 2.1 (2) + DisplayPort 1.4 (2)
GamePlus Yes
Stand Height / Titl / Swivel / Pivot Adjustable
VESA Support Yes (75*75mm)
PIP/PBP Yes
Weight 9.35lb without stand, 12.87lbs with stand

Look and Feel

The INNOCN 27G1S is instantly recognizable among a sea of black gaming monitors with its distinct dual LED back panel adorned with right RGB lighting accents as well as two lit notches that sit at the base of the screen. Predictably, the lights come on when the monitor is in use and power off when it is not, so each gaming or production set gets a little bit of mood lighting out of the box.

The screen of the 27G1S sits in the middle of the standing desk mount and is about 10-inches from the base bottom. The included stand, when attached, allows for a 90-degree pivot for a longer viewing experience, a 5-degree forward tilt and 20-degree backward tilt, as well as a 30-degree swivel to either side.

Aside from enabling a bit of motion for the monitor the stand does triple duty of also servicing as a headset holder with a kickout flap on the back and as cable organizer near the bottom of the device.

INNOCN 27 Gaming Monitor

Everything except for the RGB accents is plastered in a matte black finish.

Unfortunately, the port design for the 27G1S is frustratingly similar to the rest of the industry where they are tucked up and underneath the base of the monitor, and present a familiar struggle to identify exact selections when the view of the back of the monitor is obstructed.

There is also a tactile power on and power off menu selection toggle on the back of the monitor to help adjust some of the out of the box settings that tend to mute the colors and flatten the range of HDR for the 27G1S. The menu toggle is a bit frustrating due to its sensitivity as well as the it helps navigate the unintuitive settings menu.

Any slight brushes against the toggle will shut down the monitor and the click to select an item is practically identical to the action taken to shut the monitor off.

The bezels surrounding 27G1S are nice and thin, making way for a gorgeous 2560 x 1440 resolute pane with 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms FreeSync and G-Sync support.

Performance

The 27G1S performed as well as other monitors in this class that include Dell’s Alienware AW2723DF Gaming monitor, AOC C27G2Z Curved Frameless, ASUS ROG Swift 360Hz monitor and others. The monitor seamlessly switches between 60, 144, and 240Hz refresh rates depending on the content being displayed with is a nice addition that helps content creators save a bit of time calibrating the monitor for each specific use case.

The Blue Light reduction feature is pretty handy when working or gaming in dimly lit rooms as well as Flicker Free assistance which helps from exhausting a user’s retina over time.

INNOCN 27 Gaming Monitor Front

In the box, the 27G1S comes with support for HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 interfacing which helps reduce motion blur as well supporting various versions of Anti-Aliasing in games.

As a moderate gamer, I spent much of my time with productivity and content creation tasks such as podcast recording, video, audio and graphics editing and general Office 365 usage. The 27G1S handled all of the tasks easily and efficiently. The 99-percent sRGB color gamut combined with the high resolution and VA panel for wide viewing angles meant not having to swivel the monitor as much when replicating images during Photoshop or Premiere sessions.

INNOCN 27 Gaming Monitor ports

The 27-inch screen and high DPI also meant being able to take advantage of Windows 3 paneled window snapping arrangement and having enough room to read the content of those windows without squinting. As someone who utilizes a single monitor and laptop screen for a dual windowed setup, it’s nice to be able to rely on the 27G1S to match the performance of my laptop’s high end spec display.

Summary

As I mentioned up top, the INNOCN greatest weakness is its branding. When it comes to monitors and other high-end purchases, people tend to support the brands they know will support them if anything goes wrong or they’re looking to upgrade. Right now, INNOCN is relative unknown and someone might need customer support for rare issue, they might find going with a Samsung, Vizio, LG or Sony monitor is just more convenient, despite the 27G1S delivering a feature packed monitor for a competitive price.

Functionally speaking, the 27G1S is sound, I didn’t run into any artifacting while playing visually demanding games, the speakers were good, VESA mounting was pretty straightforward and the design of the monitor was sleek and modern with a few playful accents. Most people couldn’t ask for more from a display package like the 27G1S.

Between the color accuracy, fast refresh panel that automatically switches, almost 2K resolution and HDMI 2.1 support, the 27G1S is a recommend for moderate gamers, content creators and tasks processors alike.

Vmwp.exe: What It Is & How to Stop It

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

The Vmwp.exe is an executable file that is related to the Hyper-V in a Windows PC. It is an official Microsoft file that is required for the smooth functioning of Hyper-V.

If you get errors like Hyper-V failed to change state, you might want to stop the Vmwp.exe process. Doing so isn’t that straightforward because it can block the GUI of the virtual machine.

Today, we’ll explain how to safely stop the Vmwp.exe process.

How can I disable Vmwp.exe on my PC?

1. Disable the Hyper-V Windows feature

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Control Panel and open it.Control Panel start menu OAWrapper.exe
  3. Click on Programs and Features.
  4. Choose Turn Windows features on or off.
  5. Uncheck the Hyper V box.
  6. Click OK to disable Hyper-V on your system and restart your PC.

2. Disable Hyper-V using PowerShell

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type PowerShell and open the top result as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Hyper-V-Hypervisor
  4. Reboot your PC.

3. Disable Hyper-V using BCDEDIT

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Command Prompt and open it as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
  4. Reboot your PC to apply the changes.

4. Disable the Vmwp.exe process

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Locate Vmwp.exe under the Processes tab.
  3. Right-click on it and select End Task.

When you end the Vmwp.exe process, it will disable Hyper-V till the next time you restart your PC. This is a safe way to disable the Vmwp.exe process on your PC.

5. Disable using Process Explorer

  1. Download Process Explorer.
  2. Install it on your PC.
  3. Launch Hyper-V Manager.
  4. Open the VM settings for the problematic virtual machine.
  5. Select the virtual hard drive options.
  6. Copy the path to the virtual hard disk file. It would be something like below. C:\VMs\Ubuntu Hyper-V\Virtual Hard Disks\Ubuntu Hyper-V.vhdx
  7. Launch Process Explorer.
  8. Press Ctrl + F and paste the path into the field and hit the Search button. This will list all the processes that are being used by the VHDX file.
  9. Locate Vmwp.exe, right-click, and select Kill Process.

Using Process Explorer, you can easily kill the Vmwp.exe process for the problematic Virtual Machine by following the above steps.

That is it from us in this guide. If you are coming across Hyper-V Error applying hard drive changes, then you should refer to our guide that will help you resolve the problem quickly.

We also have a quick guide that gives you 3 effective ways to disable Hyper-V on your Windows 11 computer.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below if this guide helped you understand details about Vmwp.exe.

How to Stop Opera GX from Opening on Startup [Easy Fixes]

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Today, we’ll show you how to stop Opera GX from opening on startup, so it will no longer use up your PC’s resources when you don’t use it. Let’s get right to it.

How do I stop Opera GX from opening new tabs on startup?

1. Disable Opera GX browser assistant

  1. Type Task Manager and Windows search bar and press Enter.
    o
  2. Go to the Startup tab from the options and click it.
  3. Right-click on the Opera Browser Assistant icon.
  4. Select the Disable option from the menu.
    Stop Opera GX from Opening on Startup

2. Uncheck the option from the settings

  1. Launch Opera GX browser and go to Settings.
  2. Scroll down the list until you find the Basic section.
  3. Look for the Run when my computer starts option.
    Stop Opera GX from Opening on Startup
  4. Click on the option to toggle off.
  5. Restart your browser.

3. Try internal third-party tools

Another practical solution you may try is to utilize dedicated software for monitoring your OS and finding the internal apps faster.

There are different applications that can measure the performance of your PC and improve app productivity by editing and settings up your desktop files and application.

To be more specific, you can use Microsoft Sysinternals service to employ tools and activate them without searching them manually.

4. Check the Task Scheduler apps

  1. Type Task Scheduler in the search box and press Enter.
  2. Click on the small arrow to expand the library.
  3. Verify if Opera GX appears among the apps there.
  4. If yes, click on it and select Delete folder.
    click on it and select Delete folder
  5. Close the window.

This solution can be helpful if you installed the Opera browser and there are automated tasks involving this browser. Hence, you can solve it efficiently by following the presented steps.

5. Use another browser as the default

If any of the methods above didn’t work your issue, the last workaround is to use another browser as default and then get back to GX:

  1. Write Default apps on your home search bar.
  2. Type in the name of another browser from your PC. (e.g Microsoft Edge)
  3. Set it up as the default for particular file types or links.
  4. Or, press the Set default button on the top of the window.
    Stop Opera GX from Opening on Startup
  5. Close the window and see if the issue is fixed.

How to stop Opera GX from opening old tabs

  1. Go to browser Settings by clicking on the Opera icon.
    Stop Opera GX from Opening on Startup
  2. Click on the Settings icon.
  3. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and locate the On startup section.
  4. Now, select Begin fresh with start page.
    Stop Opera GX from Opening on Startup

There are different users that encountered issues this kind of problem and asked how to stop Opera from opening new tabs.

That’s about it regarding this browser and how to stop Opera GX from opening on startup on Windows 10 or 11. Opera is a browser equipped to load high-traffic sites promptly but as you can see, it can sometimes face loading-related difficulties on its own.

As a last note, don’t hesitate to reach us for other useful browser tips, and share your experience with our guide in the comments section.

How to create & customize organizational charts in Visio

Posted on by Flavius Floare

Microsoft has released new features to help you quickly create & customize org charts in Visio.

Org (short for organizational) charts are the perfect tools to educate people about the structure of a team. They are very useful to new people, especially, because they offer visual cues into the hierarchy of your company.

But they can also be used for restructuring your company or even hiring initiatives. So learning how to create and customize an org chart can be a very valuable asset.

For some time, Visio has become a very handy tool to create such org charts and the Redmond tech giant has been quietly investing resources into making it work flawlessly. So these new features are very welcome.

Just keep in mind that the new features are available to those with a Visio Plan 1 or Visio Plan 2 license. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Here’s how you can create and customize your org charts with the new Visto features

Create your org chart with the Format Org Chart task pane

  1. Click on the Format Org chart below the Organization chart tabvisio org chart
  2. The Format Org chart will then open to the rightformat org chart
  3. Once open, you can create your chart with different fields and details as you can see below

Customize your org chart with the Change the Node style feature

  1. Go to the Node style in the task pane and click on it
  2. Select your option
  3. The org chart will automatically refresh with your new option

Personalize your chart with the Insert employee photo feature

  1. Click on the Upload Photo buttonupload photo button
  2. Select one or multiple photos
  3. Add them to your org chart

Add employee information with the Add additional employee fields

  1. Go to the Employee fields option
  2. Once there, select the fields you want to add to your org chart

Create work hierarchies in your org chart with the Add child notes feature

  1. Hover over any node in your org chart
  2. Once the ‘+’ button appears, click on itchild node
  3. Add a child note

Connect all your nodes together with the Snap Together feature

  1. Select the node you want to link
  2. Hover the node over an existing one to connect them in your org chart

The new Visio features are intended for customizations. For example, the new Format Org Chart feature lets you do a lot of things. You can change the org chart shape, you can upload photos, and even add employee fields to existing shapes.

With the Change the node style feature, you can change the style of the shapes in your org chart. You can also create visual cues to highlight the work hierarchy. For example, management roles can be represented by badge nodes, while assistant roles can be represented by rollout nodes.

The Insert employee photo feature allows you to upload multiple photos at once, and then manage them in your org chart.

The Add additional employee fields feature speaks for itself, but you have a lot of fields to choose from. For example, you can personalize your Visio org chart with information such as Department, Email, Address, Location, and Telephone.

With these being said, Visio is definitely a must-have tool for any organization, and it’s definitely one of the better options if you deal with work management and workflows.

Visio is currently part of the Office suite, and like all Microsoft products, it is designed to work best on Windows operating systems. However, if you are a Mac user, there are great alternatives for this product on the platform.

Do you work with flowcharts? Are you using Visio? Are you excited about these new features? Let us know in the comments section below.

Klif.sys Blue Screen Error: 5 Steps to Fix It

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If you have encountered a Blue Screen of Death error displaying a stop code Klif.sys, this guide can help! We will cover all the available methods to fix the blue screen error right after discussing the causes.

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

The Klif.sys BSoD error is caused by an issue with the Kaspersky antivirus. The Klif.sys is a system driver that is installed with Kaspersky Lab products & it is responsible for intercepting and monitoring system events to protect your PC against malware and other threats.

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

  • Corrupted driver file – If the Klif.sys driver file becomes corrupted or damaged, it may trigger a BSOD error. Try running SFC and DISM scans to fix the error.
  • Incompatibility with Windows updates – Sometimes, a Windows update may conflict with the Klif.sys driver, leading to a BSoD error. Try uninstalling the latest update.
  • Conflicts with other software – If other security software or system drivers conflict with Klif.sys driver, it may trigger this blue screen error. Uninstall or disable the security software to resolve the problem.
  • Hardware issues – In rare cases, hardware issues such as a failing hard drive or memory may trigger a BSoD error related to Klif. sys. Try running a memory test.

Now that you know the causes, let us check out the solutions to fix it.

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

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

  • Restart your computer.
  • Try reinstalling the Kaspersky software.
  • Uninstall other third-party security software.
  • Make sure Windows is up to date.

If these minor tweaks didn’t work for you, move to the detailed solutions below.

1. Delete the Klif.sys file

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Klif.sys Drivers Windows + R
  2. Type the following path and click OK: C:\Windows\System32\drivers
  3. Locate and select Klif.sys and click the Delete button.
  4. Now in the Run window, copy & paste the following path and click OK: C:\Windows\System32\DriverStoreDriverStore
  5. Search and select Klif.sys and click the Delete button.

2. Update all device drivers

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Windows Update, and click Advanced options.
    Windows Update Advanced options
  3. Under Additional options, click Optional updates. options klif.sys
  4. Click to expand and if there is an update available, select it and click Download and Install.Windows Updates Advanced options Klif.sys
  5. The driver updates available will be downloaded, and your computer will restart. So make sure you have saved all your work and closed all the apps running.

It’s equally possible to solve this issue or keep getting the same error if the updates are not available.

To raise the chances and certainly update outdated drivers, you can simply use an alternative tool developed to detect and fix old device drivers automatically.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Run SFC and DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd and click Run as administrator.CMD Run as administrator
  2. Type the following command to repair system files and press Enter: sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD klif.sys
  3. Wait for the scan to complete and if it comes up with an error, copy and paste the following commands one by one and hit Enter after every command:
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
      DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
      DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth       DISM
  4. Once the scan is complete, restart your computer to confirm the changes.

4. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press the Windows key, type control panel, and click Open.Control Panel start menu klif.sys
  2. Select View by as Large icons and click Recovery.Recovery Control Panel
  3. Click Open System Restore.Click Open system restore
  4. On the System Restore window, select Choose a different restore point and click Next.Next Choose a different restore point
  5. Select the desired point and click Next.Choose a point
  6. Click Finish.Finish

Windows will restart and restore it to the selected point. If the System Restore didn’t successfully complete, you can follow this informative guide to get fast solutions.

5. Run a memory test

  1. Press the Windows key, type windows memory diagnostic, and click Open.Memory diagnostic tool klif.sys
  2. Before moving ahead, save your work and close all the running applications. Once done, click Restart now and check for problems.memory-diag-tool 3
  3. Windows will restart and automatically run the diagnostics checks. Please be patient, as this process may take some time.Check test results

Once it is done, your Windows will restart, and you can see the test results. If there are no errors, then you can move further.

However, if there are errors listed, then your RAM might be faulty. You might have to clean and reseat the memory modules. If the errors persist, then you might have to replace them.

If nothing has worked for you so far, you must perform a clean installation of Windows.

So, these are the methods to fix What causes the Klif.sys Blue Screen of Death error. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

How to use OneDrive’s Personal Vault feature to work better and safer

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

While going about your day, you’ll find that you often interact with a lot of files. In some instances, you might even find yourself handling delicate and classified information that you may prefer to keep private and away from unauthorized users.

OneDrive will help keep your files safe, It’s a cloud storage solution that allows you to keep your files in sync on all your devices.

Not only does the application let users protect and store files safely, but it also allows users to share files with others. What’s more, users also get to access the files from anywhere on any device.

Aside from these capabilities, OneDrive also allows users to password-protect important files with the Personal Vault feature. It’s a neat feature that provides an extra layer of protection for your files and folders.

Note: It’s worth noting that the Personal Vault feature is only available for OneDrive home and personal plans, therefore you’ll not be able to access it via your work or school account. You can also access it via OneDrive on the web, the mobile app, and from your Windows 10 PC.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process and show you how to skillfully password-protect important files on your Windows PC using the Personal Vault feature. Here’s what you need to do:

How to set up Personal Vault

Before proceeding to set up this feature, it’s important to know what it is first. According to Microsoft:

Personal Vault is a protected area in OneDrive where you can store your most important or sensitive files and photos without sacrificing the convenience of anywhere access.

Now that you’ve acquainted yourself you can now proceed to set up the feature by:

  1. Launch the Microsoft OneDrive app and head to the My files section on the homepage and select the Personal Vault folder.
  2. A small window will pop-up with a prompt asking you to Verify your identity. You might be requested to provide your email address and even phone number.
  3. Next, you’ll need to set up a verification method. If you selected text or email, a unique code will be sent to you that you’ll need to key in to access your Personal Vault.

You can also review solutions for missing vault access in OneDrive Personal Vault Not Showing Up which helps you restore the secure folder when it does not appear.

How to upload files to your Personal Vault

Since you’ve already set up Personal Vault, you now need to know how to upload important files and secure them with the feature.

Note: Users without a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscription can only upload up to three files in the Personal Vault. Those with active subscriptions can upload as many files as they’d like dependent on the storage space they have left.

  1. Launch the OneDrive app, and select the Personal Vault.
  2. Next, you’ll need to sign back into your Personal Vault folder using the identity verification method you selected (email/text).
  3. Select Upload and choose all the files you want to store in the Personal Vault folder, then select Open once you’re done.

Important: OneDrive’s mobile app lets users scan documents, take pictures, or shoot videos directly into their Personal Vault. This, in turn, prevents you from storing important and classified documents in accessible areas on your device.

How to move files from OneDrive to Personal Vault

While you now know how to upload files from your device to your Personal Vault, you might also want to add an extra layer to files that you’ve stored in OneDrive and opt to move them to the Personal Vault. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Launch the OneDrive app and select the Personal Vault.
  2. Next, you’ll need to sign back into your Personal Vault folder using the identity verification method you selected (email/text).
  3. Now, select all the files you’d like to move to the Personal Vault and click on Move Items. Alternatively, you can drag the selected files onto your open Personal Vault.

How to lock and unlock your Personal Vault

If you’ve managed to set up and move important files to your Personal Vault. It’s important to learn how to lock and unlock the Personal Vault so that you can access your files whenever you want.

Here’s how to unlock the Personal Vault feature:

  1. Launch the OneDrive app on your Windows PC and select the Personal Vault folder.
  2. Next, verify your identity by using the verification method you have set up and enter the code sent to you via email or text.

Tip: You can opt to unlock your Personal Vault using the Microsoft Authenticator app. It’s quite convenient as you’ll not need an internet connection to generate an access code.

Here’s how you can lock your Personal Vault once you’re done uploading and using the files stored there:

  1. Head to OneDrive’s homepage and select the Personal Vault folder.
  2. Next, select the Personal Vault options icon, and then select Lock.onedrive personal vault feature

Secure your files with the Personal Vault feature

Protecting a folder or file with a password is an easy way to keep people out of your stuff if you’re sharing files with someone who doesn’t need to see everything in the folder. The Personal Vault feature will help keep your classified files private.

We hope that the above steps were able to help you password protect your files using OneDrive’s Personal Vault feature. Do you use the feature to protect your files? Share your experience with us in the comments.

Microsoft 365 Family
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Microsoft 365 Personal
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(Code 48) Software for this Device has been Blocked [Fix]

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

The error message for code 48 in Device Manager reads The software for this device has been blocked from starting. This error code 48 reveals that there is some issue with the device driver that failed to load properly. Let us get right through it.

Why am I getting the error code 48 in Device Manager?

There is a serious issue with the device driver which is why you are getting The software for this device has been blocked from starting code 48 error message in Device Manager.

We have listed some of the most common reasons that trigger this issue in Device Manager.

  • Corrupt driver files: If any of the files associated with the driver is corrupt, then you will see the error code 48 in Device Manager.
  • Windows version conflict: Chances are that the Windows OS version that you are running isn’t compatible with the device driver installed.
  • Virus infection: If your PC is infected with a virus or malware, then you will face all sorts of errors in your PC, including error code 48.
  • Corrupt system files: Corrupt system-related files can cause various issues on your PC, including errors related to Device Manager.

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

How can I fix the code 48 error in Device Manager?

1. Update the driver

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand each section and double-click on the driver with which you are getting the error code 48.
  3. Click on the Driver tab.
  4. Select Update driver.
  5. Choose Search automatically for drivers option.
  6. Install the latest update.

Installing the latest update will resolve any underlying bugs that could be preventing the program from triggering the software for this device has been blocked from starting code 48.

For that reason, you should ensure the success of updating the PC drivers with the right version. You can definitely fix any outdated drivers using a professional tool with reliable and automated support.

2. Re-install the driver

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Device Manager and open it.
  3. Expand the appropriate section.
  4. Right-click on the driver with which you are getting the error code 48 and select Uninstall device.
  5. Restart your computer and your PC will automatically install the driver.

3. Disable Hyper-V

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Click Turn Windows features on or off.
  5. Uncheck the Hyper V box.
  6. Click OK to disable Hyper-V on your system and restart your PC.

Some of our readers have reported that turning off the Hyper V feature on their PCs, fixed the software for this device has been blocked from starting code 48 error.

4. Turn off Memory Integrity in Core Isolation

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Core Isolation and open the top result.
  3. Toggle off the Memory integrity option.
  4. Restart your PC.

Some of our readers have fixed this issue by simply disabling the Memory integrity feature on their Windows PC.

5. Run the System File Checker and DISM scans

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter.sfc /scannow
  4. Let the process complete.
  5. Type the below commands and hit Enter after each one.dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

Fixing the corrupt or missing system files can easily resolve most of the common DLL errors on your PC. Simply follow the steps and fix the problem.

6. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic test

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type control admintools and press Enter.
  3. You will be shown two options.
    • Restart now and check for problems (recommended)
    • Check for problems the next time I start my computer
  4. Select either of the options based on your convenience, but we would suggest you opt for the first.

Chances are that there is something wrong with the memory on your PC. When you run the memory diagnostic test, it will rectify the mistakes and possibly solve the software for this device has been blocked from starting code 48 error.

That is it from us in this guide. For users facing the code 18 reinstall drivers for this device error message, then you should check out our guide that lists some effective solutions to resolve the problem.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions resolved the software for this device has been blocked from starting code 48 error message.

Shake to Minimize: How to Disable It on Windows 10

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Shake to Minimize is a Windows multi-tasking feature that was first introduced with Windows 7. It allows you to quickly minimize all open windows on your desktop by shaking the active window.

The feature is disabled on your Windows by default. However, if it’s not, we can help!

How can I disable Shake to minimize on Windows 10?

1. Use the Settings app

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System.System1 Shake to Minimize
  3. Click Multitasking from the left pane.
  4. Locate Work with multiple windows, and toggle off the switch under Snap windows to disable it.Multitasking Shake to minimize

Now you have got control of your desktop back.

2. Use the Registry Editor

2.1 If DisallowShaking is present

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Export
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
  3. Click File, then Export, and save the .reg file in the desired location.
  4. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
  5. Locate DisallowShaking, and double-click to modify. Make sure the base is set to Hexadecimal and change the Value data to 1. Click OK.Disallowshaking Value data 1 Shake to maximize
  6. Restart your PC to confirm the changes.

2.2 If DisallowShaking is not present

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Registry Editor Run command
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
  3. Click File, then Export, and save the .reg file in the desired location.Export - File Shake to maximize
  4. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
  5. Right-click the empty space, select New, then choose DWORD (32-bit).New DWORD
  6. Now right-click it and select Rename. Name it DisallowShaking.Rename the registry
  7. Double-click to modify, set the base value to Hexadecimal and change the Value data to 1. Click OK.Disallowshaking Value data 1 Shake to maximize
  8. Restart your computer to save the changes.

3. Use the Local Group Policy Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.Group Policy Editor run command
  2. Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open Group Policy Editor.
  3. Go to this path: User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Desktop
  4. Locate and double-click Turn off Aero Shake window minimizing mouse gesture from the right-side pane.Shake to minimize GPE
  5. Select Disabled and click OK.Disable
  6. Restart your PC to let the changes take effect.

So, these are the methods to disable Shake to Minimize feature on Windows 10 and enjoy a less cluttered and more focused desktop experience.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please mention them in the comments section below.

Sony announces PlayStation Showcase 2023 for next week, ahead of June Xbox Games Showcase

Posted on by Robert Collins

Sony has announced the upcoming PlayStation Showcase will be broadcast on Wednesday, May 24. The announcement was made over on the PlayStation Blog, which went on to tease some new first-party game projects from PlayStation Studios.

The show will run a bit over an hour, focusing on PS5 and PS VR2 games in development from top studios from around the world. Expect a glimpse at several new creations from PlayStation Studios, as well as spellbinding games from our third-party partners and indie creators.

With this announcement Sony has gotten the jump on both the Summer Games Fest and the Xbox Games Showcase. The latter is scheduled for June 11, and will be immediately followed by the Starfield Direct Showcase. Rumors abound over just what fans might get to see during the PlayStation Showcase, but new info on Spider-Man 2 sits at the top of the inevitable predictions lists.

Catch the PlayStation Showcase 2023 broadcast on Wednesday, May 24 at 1pm Pacific/9pm British time on YouTube or Twitch.

Via Eurogamer. 

What is Msdtc.exe & Should you Remove it?

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

Msdtc.exe is a component of the Microsoft Distribution Transaction Coordinator (MSDTC) program and it’s a very important part of any version of Windows. Therefore, you should not remove it. However, some viruses can disguise themselves under the MSDTC moniker and perform malicious actions.

What is Msdtc.exe?

As we have mentioned above, Msdtc.exe is a legitimate file that is part of the system and which you can find in the C:\Windows\System32 folder.

The Microsoft Distribution Transaction Coordinator (MSDTC) app allows multiple client applications to have more than one source of data, for a transaction. Then, its process coordinates the distribution across the servers of the transaction.

However, do not confound it with Msdt.exe which is the Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool that is also a legitimate file.

Is Msdtc.exe a virus?

Usually, the file is perfectly safe and you shouldn’t mess with it or its process. In fact, stopping it or removing the file will cause issues with all the related software that uses it. Most likely, .NET Framework, ISS, and Visual Studio will be affected so we strongly recommend against removing it.

However, wrongdoers may also disguise their malicious software and processes under the Msdtc.exe file name (or with small letter differences) or its process.

Do I need to remove Msdtc.exe?

1. Find out if you have duplicate MSDTC duplicate services

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager.
  2. Click on the Services tab and look for MSDTC.
  3. MSDTC should have a single process under its name. If you find more, that’s a clear sign of infection.

2. Find out if Msdtc.exe is a legitimate file

  1. Press the Windows key + E to start File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the following path: C:\Windows\System32
  3. Find Msdtc.exe, right-click on it, and select Properties.
  4. In the pop-up window, select the Details tab and see if the file is registered under the Microsoft trademark. If you can’t find any details about it or if there is something different, that is a sign of infection.
  5. Also, while in File Explorer, do a search on msdtc and see if there are any other iterations of the file with different extensions such as SYS or DLL. There should only be only an Msdtc.exe file so if you find any other, delete it right away.

These are the ways you can learn if Msdtc.exe is a virus or if it’s dangerous to your system. If everything is in order, do not attempt to remove the file.

How do I remove Msdtc.exe?

1. Perform an SFC scan

  1. Click the Search icon on the taskbar, type cmd, and select Run as administrator from the results.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to finish, restart your computer, and see if you see if the fake service is running.

2. Perform a full antivirus scan

  1. Click the Search icon, type windows security, and launch the app.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Now, select Scan options.
  4. Check the Full scan box and click the Scan now button below.

Windows Defender is pretty powerful but if the fake Msdtc.exe has taken over, you might need to scan your system with a more powerful antivirus.

Here concludes our article on Msdtc.exe and we hope that now you know what is it, if you need to remove it, and how to do that.

We also recommend reading our article on what to do if MSDTC encountered an error in Windows.

For any questions or viable solutions, let us know in the comments section below.

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

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

SynTPEnh.exe is an app that deals with additional configuration options for Synaptics touchpads. The process must be typically left running to ensure proper operation of the input device.

However, SynTPEnh.exe keeps crashing with memory errors and other error messages. In this article, you will learn all about SynTPEnh.exe and how to fix its memory errors.

What is SynTPEnh.exe?

As we highlighted above, SynTPEnh.exe, together with SynTPLpr.exe ensure the configuration options for the Synaptics touchpads that are installed in millions of laptops. However, there is a wide range of errors associated with SynTPEnh.exe and we will list the most important here:

  • SynTPEnh.exe needs to close
  • SynTPEnh.exe not a Win32 program
  • Can’t run SynTPEnh.exe
  • Sorry, we can’t find SynTPEnh.exe
  • SynTPEnh.exe is missing
  • Problem starting application: SynTPEnh.exe
  • SynTPEnh.exe quit
  • Fault in Software Path: SynTPEnh.exe

The causes for these issues range from accidental deletion of the file to missing Synaptics driver, corrupt system files, and even virus or malware infection.

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

How can I fix the SynTPEnh.exe memory errors?

Before getting into more complicated solutions, perform some quick methods that may fix the problems quicker:

  • Make sure you install all the latest Windows updates.
  • If your laptop came with dedicated software for the touchpad, reinstall it and see if the problem is solved.
  • Reinstall the software that triggers the error.

If none of these workarounds helped, perform the solutions below to fix the problems.

1. Make sure that the SynTPEnhService process is running

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager from the list of options.
  2. Go to the Services tab, look for SynTPEnhService, and check if it’s running. If so, move to the next solution.
  3. If it’s not, right-click on it and select Start.

2. Perform SFC and DISM scans

  1. Click the Search button, type cmd, and select Run as administrator to run Command Prompt with full privileges.
  2. Now, type or paste the following command and press Enter to run it: sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to finish, then type the following command and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth
  4. Wait for the scan to finish, then restart your PC and see if the SynTPEnh.exe error still occurs.

Performing the SFC and DISM scans will fix any potential problems related to any corrupted system files or disk errors.

3. Re-register SynTPEnh.exe

  1. Click the Search icon on the taskbar, type cmd, and hit Run as administrator from the results.
  2. Now, type or paste the following command and press Enter to unregister the file: regsvr32 /u syntpenh.exe
  3. Next, type the following command and press Enter to re-register the file: regsvr32 /i syntpenh.exe
  4. The file should be re-registered and SynTPEnh.exe should work fine now.

4. Update or reinstall the Synaptics driver

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Mouse and other pointing devices category, right-click on the Synaptics Pointing Device, and select Update driver.
  3. Now, click on Search automatically for drivers.
  4. If the system finds any new versions, it will install the newest.
  5. Alternatively, in Step 2 of this solution, you can select Uninstall device, and then, restart the PC. Windows will find the appropriate driver and install it automatically.

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, it is also a good option to check for the installation files that came with your laptop and manually reinstall the Synaptics drivers from the supplied media (if present).

These are the best solutions to fix the SynTPEnh.exe memory errors and we hope that now, your Synaptics device is working fine.

We also need to mention that all the solutions above work for both Windows 11 and 10.

If you need more information, we also have a complete guide on how to fix the Synaptics touchpad if it’s not working or it’s disabled automatically.

For any other questions or solutions, feel free to use the comments section below.

Elon Musk claims Microsoft controls ChatGPT creator OpenAI, Satya Nadella disagrees

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

In a recent interview with CNBC, entrepreneur Elon Musk voiced his dissatisfaction with the direction taken by OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and raised concerns about Microsoft’s alleged control over the company. However, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella promptly dismissed Musk’s claims as “factually incorrect.”

Musk, known for his involvement with companies such as Tesla and Twitter, asserted that OpenAI owed its existence to him. Although initially established as a non-profit organization in 2015, OpenAI later formed a “capped-profit” entity called OpenAI LP. Musk had invested approximately $50 million in the company during its founding year and played a pivotal role in the hiring process. He even claimed to have suggested the name “OpenAI.”

Expressing his apprehension, Musk questioned the relationship between OpenAI and Microsoft, implying that the tech giant exerted greater control over the AI research company. He raised concerns that as part of Microsoft’s investment, they possessed rights to all software, model weights, and other aspects of OpenAI. Musk said, “What exactly is the relationship between OpenAI and Microsoft? I worry that Microsoft made it more in control.”

Responding to Musk’s comments, Satya Nadella refuted the claims, stating they were factually incorrect. Nadella emphasized that OpenAI remained grounded in its mission of being controlled by a non-profit board. He expressed his respect for Musk but maintained that Microsoft only held a non-controlling interest in OpenAI, emphasizing their commercial partnership.

Nadella pointed out the collaboration between OpenAI and a “capped profit” company in pursuit of the powerful technology behind OpenAI LM. He acknowledged that Microsoft was the sole for-profit company comfortable working with a non-profit firm on such a large scale.

Despite Microsoft CEO discarding Musk’s claim, what Musk said might not be entirely wrong. Microsoft has integrated ChatGPT’s underlying technology into various platforms, including Bing, Edge, and Microsoft Office. Through their agreement, Microsoft can utilize ChatGPT’s base GPT language model technology and even tailor it for specific customers. Also, recent reports suggest that Microsoft has been developing a newer ChatGPT version to address privacy concerns.

Musk’s reservations regarding ChatGPT and similar AI technologies are not new. He previously joined forces with Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak in signing an open letter in March, calling for a pause in advanced AI development.

Contrary to that, during the interview, Musk expressed his desire to create a competitor to ChatGPT, named “TruthGPT,” to avoid AI bias. He envisions it as an AI that relentlessly seeks the truth and strives to comprehend the mysteries of the universe.

While the debate between Musk and Nadella continues, it is evident that their differing perspectives reflect the growing concerns surrounding the control, influence, and responsible development of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT. As the industry moves forward, striking a balance between profit-driven innovation and ethical safeguards will be crucial in shaping the future of AI.

Via: Business Today

Yahoo Mail Not Receiving Emails? Here’s What to do

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

While everyone has shifted over to Gmail, there are many who still use Yahoo Mail. However, many of our readers reported the Yahoo Mail not receiving emails issue.

There could be several reasons for this problem, which we will be discussing in this guide along with effective solutions to resolve the issue. Let us get right through it.

Why am I not receiving emails in my Yahoo Mail?

We dug up the internet and various forums and deduced a list of reasons that are responsible for Yahoo Mail not receiving emails issue.

  • Server issue: Chances are the Yahoo servers are down or under maintenance which is why you are not receiving emails in your Yahoo Mail.
  • Account setting errors: You might have accidentally tweaked the account settings wrongly which is why you are not receiving any emails.
  • Verify the block list: Accidentally, you might have added the sender’s email ID to the block list, so you are not receiving the email from them in your inbox.
  • Your browser cache is conflicting: Corrupt browser cache can often cause the browser to misbehave and malfunction.
  • The Yahoo Mail app isn’t updated: An underlying bug might be causing the problem with the app. If so, the temporary error 15 may also show up on your screen but we’ve already discussed how to address it.

Let us now look at the advanced solutions that will help you fix the Yahoo Mail not receiving emails problem.

What can I do if Yahoo Mail is not receiving emails?

Before applying the advanced solutions, we would suggest you resolve the problem using the below-mentioned quick fixes.

  • Check if the Yahoo servers are down or not. If yes, then all you can do is wait for the servers to go up and if this fixes the issue.
  • Change the browser and check if using a different browser resolves the issue.
  • Try restarting the Yahoo Mail app and then signing in with your account to resolve the problem.
  • Sign out and re-sign to your Yahoo account and check whether this fixes the issue.
  • If you’re using the Yahoo Mail app, try reinstalling it.

Let us now apply the advanced solutions and check if this resolves the issue or not.

1. Verify the block list

  1. Open Yahoo mail on a browser and sign into your account.
  2. Click the Settings icon and select More Settings.
  3. Click on Security and Privacy.
  4. Check if the sender’s email is listed there. If so, then select it and hit the Delete button.

The above procedure will remove the sender’s email from the blocked list. Now you can ask the sender to send the email and see if this resolves the issue or not.

However, that solves the problem only if you’re not receiving emails from one ore more senders that you blocked.

2. Clear the browser cache

  1. Launch your browser.
  2. Click on the menu icon and select Settings.
  3. Select Privacy and Security from the left.
  4. Click on Clear browsing data.
  5. Check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files options along with Browser history.
  6. Hit the Clear data button.
  7. Revisit the Yahoo Mail website and sign in to your account.

3. Check your Yahoo Mail storage

  1. Open Yahoo mail on a browser and sign into your account.
  2. Click the Settings icon and click on More Settings.
  3. Check the storage space left in Yahoo Mail on the bottom-left of the page.

Yahoo gives 1TB per user for Yahoo Mail, i.e. 1000GB. If there is no space left in your Yahoo Mail, then you need to make room for the incoming emails.

For that, you need to clean up the trash or spam folders. Also, you can take a backup of all the old or large emails and delete the emails that have large attachments that you no longer require.

We have a guide that lists some of the best Yahoo Mail backup software that you can use to back up your old emails.

4. Check the email filters

  1. Visit Yahoo mail on a browser and sign into your account.
  2. Click the Settings icon and click on More Settings.
  3. Click on Filters on the left pane to see all the filters you have created.
  4. You can locate and delete the filter that is blocking the email that is being sent to you.

Yahoo lets you use up to 500 filters to sort your emails. This a nice feature to quickly jump over to the emails that matter to you. However, having filters can also accidentally send emails to spam or some other folder.

That is it from us in this guide. We have a guide that explains how you can download Yahoo Mail on your Windows PC for free.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions fixed the problem of Yahoo Mail not receiving emails.

OAWrapper.exe: What is It & Should You Remove It?

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

OAWrapper.exe is an executable file that belongs to the OpenAutomate wrapper process. It comes along with the NVIDIA GeForce Experience Application Ontology Software developed by an NVIDIA software developer.

In this guide, we’ll explore what oawrapper.exe is, what it does, and whether or not you should consider removing it from your computer.

What is OAWrapper.exe?

Oawrapper.exe is a program that is often included in software packages developed by Autodesk or with NVIDIA GeForce Experience Application Ontology software.

It is required for proper communication between the software and Autodesk applications, which are commonly used in the fields of design and engineering. This allows the NVIDIA software to recognize Autodesk applications and adjust its settings and performance accordingly.

Oawrapper.exe is important for Autodesk apps; however, if you don’t use the apps or having issues with them, you can remove the process.

How can I remove OAWrapper.exe?

Before removing the OAWrapper.exe process, it is important to consider the following prerequisites:

  • Make sure you don’t use Autodesk apps anymore.
  • Verify you have logged in using your Administrator account.
  • Create a backup of your computer.

Once you finish these checks, move to the steps to remove the process. You must follow the steps mentioned in the same order to complete it.

1. Check if the file is legit

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. On the Processes tab, navigate to OAWrapper.exe, right-click it and select Open file location.
  3. If it is located on this path, then it is a legit file: C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\NVIDIA\NvBackend\ApplicationOntology\
  4. If not, you can run a deep scan using an antivirus tool and remove the file.

2. Stop the OAWrapper.exe process

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.End task - OAWrapper.exe
  2. Go to the Details tab, locate & right-click OAWrapper.exe, and select End task.

This will disable Oawrapper.exe temporarily. However, the program may restart itself when you launch your Autodesk software again.

3. Uninstall the related software

  1. Press the Windows key, type control panel, and click Open.Control Panel start menu OAWrapper.exe
  2. Select Category by View as and click Uninstall a program.Programs
  3. The Programs and Features window will open. Locate & right-click the app and select Uninstall.Uninstall OAWrapper.exe
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.

4. Delete the corresponding key from Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Regedit OAWrapper.exe
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
  4. Locate OAWrapper from the right pane and select Delete.Delete Regedit OAWrapper.exe
  5. Click Yes to confirm the choice.

This will remove the OAWrapper.exe entry from Windows Registry, which should prevent it from running at startup.

If you got stuck or need more information, our guide on how to use Registry Editor on Windows 11 will help you.

So, these are steps that you can follow to remove the OAWrapper.exe file. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

Wi-Fi USB Tethering not Working: Causes & How to Fix

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

With the USB Tethering feature, you can easily share your smartphone’s cellular data with your PC and use it on the go. This comes in handy in situations when there is no Wi-Fi availability.

In this guide, we will give you a bunch of solutions that will help resolve the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem on your system. Let us get right into it.

Why is Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working?

We did our research and found out some common reasons that several readers have reported because of which they are facing the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem.

Some of the reasons are listed below:

  • Multiple devices are connected simultaneously: Chances are that there are several wireless devices connected at the same time, causing the feature to malfunction.
  • Defective USB cable: The USB cable that you are connecting your PC with for Wi-Fi Tethering is defective and causing the problem.
  • Firewall is blocking the connection: Your Firewall or antivirus software might be getting in the way of a smooth connection on your PC.
  • Drivers aren’t updated: For optimal performance, you should ensure that the drivers on your PC are up to date.
  • Cellular data limit exceeded: It could be that your cellular mobile data plan is over which is why you aren’t able to use Wi-Fi USB Tethering.

Let us now apply the solutions and get rid of the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem.

How can I fix the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem?

Before applying the advanced solutions, let us apply some easy fixes and hopefully resolve the problem quickly.

  • Disconnect all other wireless devices and connect only the one on which you wish to use the internet.
  • Change the USB cable and check if this resolves the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem.
  • Check if the cellular data pack on your smartphone isn’t exceeded. If so, then recharge your phone with a suitable internet pack and get going.

Now let’s apply the advanced solutions and fix the problem as quickly as possible.

1. Update the network driver

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Device Manager and open it.
  3. Expand the Network adapters section.
  4. Double-click on the network hardware.
  5. Switch to the Driver tab.
  6. Select Update driver.
  7. Choose Browser my computer for drivers.
  8. Click on Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
  9. Uncheck the Show compatible hardware.
  10. Select Microsoft under the Manufacturer section and then select Remote NDIS based Internet Sharing Device.

Some of our readers have suggested that manually updating the network driver as shown above and selecting the Remote NDIS based Internet Sharing Device option helped them resolve the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem.

In case the method didn’t give any results for you, there is an alternative way to update drivers automatically. With a dedicated software application, your PC will run without any issues.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

2. Run the Network Troubleshooter

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Select Troubleshoot.
  3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
  4. Hit the Run button next to Network Adapter.
  5. Let the process diagnose and fix the issue for you.

3. Install the latest Windows update

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Windows Update on the left.
  3. Hit the Install button to get any pending updates.
  4. Reboot your PC.

Windows should be updated to the latest available version to avoid any version conflicts within the installed or system programs.

4. Renew the IP address

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type command prompt and run it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below commands and press Enter. ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew

Running the above commands will release the old IP configuration and the second command simply replaces or renews the IP configuration, which could be the reason you were not able to use the Wi-Fi USB Tethering on your PC.

5. Perform System Restore

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

You can also use the System Restore process to take your PC to the normal state when everything was working smoothly. Chances are that a third-party application has tweaked the important tethering-related files.

However, do note that the restore process will work only when you have created a restore point previously. If not, then you can check out our guide that explains how you can create a system restore point.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions resolved the Wi-Fi USB Tethering not working problem.

What is Bash.exe, And What Does It Do?

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Bash.exe is a command line interface shell program that is commonly used in Unix-based systems such as Linux, macOS, and Windows.

In this guide, we will explore what bash.exe is, how it works, and some of the most common uses for this command shell.

What is Bash.exe?

Bash.exe is a command-line interface shell program that allows users to interact with the operating system of a computer using text commands.

It can interact with Windows programs and services, making it a useful tool for system administrators who need to manage Windows and Unix systems.

Bash.exe is a powerful and flexible tool for managing files, running programs, and automating tasks.

Where I can use bash.exe?

Bash.exe is a robust and flexible toolset that can be used in Windows for various purposes, some of which are listed below:

  • Running Linux/Unix commands – You can run these commands on your computer, which gives you access to a wide range of powerful tools and utilities.
  • Web development – It allows you to manage web servers, automate deployment tasks and perform other web-related tasks.
  • Git version control – You can use it to manage Git repositories, including cloning, pulling, committing, and pushing code to remote repositories.
  • Scripting – It lets you write shell scripts that automate repetitive tasks, manage system resources, and perform complex operations.
  • Data processing – Bash.exe can be used to process and analyze large amounts of data, including log files, system metrics, and more.

If you want to know how to create & run shell scripts on Windows, we suggest you read this informative guide with detailed steps.

How can I use Bash.exe?

1. Make/remove a new directory

MKDIR COMMAND BASH.EXE

Bash.exe allows you to create a new directory with mkdir command & remove one using rmdir on Windows.

For example, if you want to create a folder named script, copy & paste the following command to run it and press Enter: mkdir script

2. Navigate your file system

CD bash.exe

It helps navigate your file system in the command line itself. To change the directory, type the following command to change the directory to the script folder, copy & paste the following command and hit Enter: cd script

3. Create a bash file & make it executable

VIM bash.exe

Bash.exe allows you to create a bash file in your directory. For example, if you want to create the file with the name myscript.sh in the folder named script, then type the following command and press Enter: vim myscript.sh

CHMOD bash.exe

You can write your script in this file and make it executable with the following command: chmod +x myscript.sh

4. Automating tasks

It allows you to automate tasks by creating Bash scripts and running them on a schedule using the Windows Task Scheduler.

For example, you can create a Bash script that backs up your important files and schedule it to run every day at a specific time.

5. Installing and managing packages

Bash.exe allows you to install and manage packages on Windows using package managers such as apt-get or yum. For example, to install the git package, type the following command and press Enter: sudo yum install git -y

6. Create an alias

ALIAS COMMAND bash.exe

Aliases are shortcuts for complex commands or scripts, as they are usually short and easy to remember. These can be used to invoke the commands or scripts which you use quite often.

For example, If you have a script that you want to run multiple times, you can create an alias for the same to avoid calling the script again. Type the following command and hit Enter : alias m='/path/to/myscript.sh'

To run the script, you just have to type the word, and the task will be done.

7. Running scripts remotely

You can use it to run Bash scripts remotely on a Windows machine over a network. For example, you can use the ssh command to log in to a remote machine and execute a Bash script on that machine.

8. Running Bash on Ubuntu on Windows (WSL)

Bash.exe is the command-line executable that can be used to run Bash on Ubuntu on Windows, also known as Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL).

With WSL, you can run Linux commands and applications on your Windows machine. For example, you can install and run the Apache web server on your Windows machine using WSL.

Overall, bash.exe provides a powerful and versatile set of tools for managing files, running commands, and automating tasks on Windows, making it a valuable tool for developers, system administrators, and power users.

If you have any questions or concerns, please mention them in the comments section below.

ChatGPT Click Failed: Quick Way to Fix This Error

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

ChatGPT is one of the most useful tools you can try, but many reported ChatGPT Click failed messages while using it.

This isn’t the only error you can encounter, and many reported that ChatGPT is not working for them at all.

If you encounter this issue, it means that ChatGPT can’t complete your request, and to fix the problem, first, we need to understand what causes it.

Why am I getting ChatGPT Click failed message?

  • Site configuration – Most websites have robots.txt configuration file that can allow or disallow bots to access it and read its content. It’s rather likely that this new feature is being blocked by it.
  • Website complexity – If website data is shown using static pages, ChatGPT should be able to read it. However, if the content is dynamically generated with JavaScript, you might get this error message.
  • Beta version – This feature was recently released, so some issues are expected. Hopefully, the developers will manage to fix those issues over time.

How can I fix ChatGPT Click failed error?

Use a third-party web browser plugin

  1. Go to the ChatGPT page.
  2. Click on Plugin store.
  3. Next, look for these plugins: Keymate AI Search, Web Pilot, and Wolfram Alpha.
  4. Click Install next to each plugin.
  5. Wait for them to install.

Once the plugins are installed, you should be able to browse the web with ChatGPT.

The web browsing feature in ChatGPT is quite new, and issues such as ChatGPT Click failed are expected. Hopefully, the developers will fix those problems soon.

To learn more about ChatGPT, we suggest reading our ChatGPT browser extensions guide for more ways to enhance this already great tool.

This isn’t the only issue and many also encountered Error searching knowledge in ChatGPT, but we have a dedicated guide that addresses this issue.

Did you find a different way to fix this problem? If so, feel free to share it with us in the comments section below.

Here’s how to recover your BitLocker key from OneDrive

Posted on by Flavius Floare

BitLocker is a built-in feature in Windows 11 and Windows 10 that protects your data from unauthorized access. Whenever someone is trying to access your PC, you can use Bitlocker to encrypt your data.

However, there are times when you can get locked out of your system. In those cases, you need the Bitlocker key to gain access to your PC.

One of the most efficient ways to recover your Bitlocker key requires you to access your OneDrive. However, as spotted by this Reddit user, it seems that the Bitlocker key would stay hidden unless you have an active OneDrive account.

[deleted by user]
by inWindows11

While the thread itself shows that several other users shared this experience, we still do not know for sure if the Bitlocker key is hidden under a paywall.

However, if you have an active OneDrive account, there are 2 ways to check for your Bitlocker Key.

How to recover your Bitlocker Key from One Drive?

1. Using your Microsoft account

  1. Log into your Microsoft Account
  2. On your Microsoft Account go to the Devices sectiondevices microsoft account
  3. Go to the device you want the Bitlocker Key for, and click on View details
  4. Once you’re there, head over to the Bitlocker data protection and select Manage recovery keysmanage keys onedrive

Keep in mind that you can access your Microsoft account from any device, so this solution is very useful when your current PC is locked.

2. Recover your Bitlocker key from your OneDrive cloud

  1. Go to your OneDrive cloud service
  2. Type in Bitlocker Recovery Key into the search barhow to recover your bitlocker key onedrive
  3. Check to see if the key is therebitlocker key onedrive

This works only if you uploaded the Bitlocker Key as a text document into your OneDrive cloud space. It is highly recommended for you to do so, because you can have access to it everywhere, at any time.

Since you can try both these ways from other devices, as long as you know your Microsoft credentials, you should have easy access to the Bitlocker Key.

It does require a functioning OneDrive account, as stated by this user who went through the same experience. Do you need to pay to have access? Well, as you could see from the Reddit threat, some agree that yes, but the majority agree that no, you have access to your Bitlocker key either way.

What do you think about it? Have you experienced this issue? Let us know in the comments section below.

Fvevol.sys BSoD: 5 ways to fix this error

Posted on by Taiba Hasan

Fvevol.sys is a part of the BitLocker Drive Encryption Driver file developed by Microsoft that is required for the proper functioning of Windows. Several of our readers have reported a sudden BSoD crash on their system that displays an error message- System thread exception not handled. What failed: fvevol.sys. 

Why do I encounter the fvevol.sys BSoD error? 

There are several possible reasons for the BSOD error triggered due to fvevol.sys. Some of them are: 

  • Buggy Windows updates – A bug-ridden Windows update can make the entire system malfunction and crash with a BSoD error. 
  • Hardware-related problems – Issues with hardware, such as corrupt hard disk drives can also cause such an issue. 
  • Corrupt drivers – Corrupt or obsolete system drivers also hinder the normal functioning of Windows, causing stop code crashes. 
  • Malware infection – Viruses and malware infections mess up your system like the one you are currently facing.  

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

How do I fix the fvevol.sys BSoD error on Windows? 

Try these workarounds before moving on to the advanced solutions explained a little later. 

If these methods did not help bypass the fvevol.sys BSoD screen, try the below methods. 

1. Boot your PC in Safe Mode

  1. Power off your PC by holding down the power button for 10 seconds. Press the button again to turn on your device and turn it off again as soon as the Windows logo appears. Repeat this step until the Automatic Repair screen gets displayed. 
  2. Hit the Advanced options button to initiate the automatic repair process. Fvevol.sys
  3. Choose Troubleshoot option from the next window. 
  4. Next, select Advanced options.
  5. Click Startup Settings from the Advanced options window.
  6. A list of safe mode variants will appear. Press the F5 key to enable Safe Mode with Networking. Fvevol.sys

In Safe Mode, your PC functions with a limited set of files, apps, and drivers. Now you can execute the troubleshooting methods listed below to get past the constant fvevol.sys BSoD loop.

2. Run SFC and DISM scan

  1. Press the Windows key to launch the Start menu, type cmd in the Search box and click the Run as administrator option in the search results. Fvevol.sys
  2. Click the Yes button on the User Account Control prompt. 
  3. Type or paste the following command and press the Enter key to initiate the SFC scan. SFC/scannow Fvevol.sys
  4. After the verification is 100% complete, type the following command and hit the Enter key. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth Fvevol.sys
  5. After SFC and DISM scan is complete, restart your PC and see whether or not the BSOD crash occurs.

The SFC scan and DISM tool will analyze your protected system files to identify and restore damaged or corrupt instances.

3. Disable BitLocker Recovery 

  1. Open Search using the Windows + S shortcut, type powershell, and choose Run as administrator from the search results. Fvevol.sys
  2. Press the Yes button on the UAC window. 
  3. Type or paste the following command in the Powershell window and press Enter to execute it. Replace C with the letter representing each of the disk directories. Disable-BitLocker -MountPoint "C:" Fvevol.sys
  4. The decryption process will start, which can take several minutes depending on the size of the drive. Repeat the same steps to disable the BitLocker encryption for each drive. 

4. Perform System Restore 

  1. Click the Windows key to launch the Start menu, type create a restore point on top, and choose the relevant search result to access the System Properties window. fvevol.sys
  2. While in the System Protection tab, press the System Restore button. Fvevol.sys
  3. From the list of restore points currently available, select the one when your PC was not experiencing the BSOD error and press Next. fvevol.sys
  4. Press the Finish button to confirm and initiate the system restore process to the chosen restore point. 

Performing a system restore will roll back all the damage caused by a recent change made to your computer, such as the installation of a buggy update, and resolving the pesky fvevol.sys BSoD error. 

5. Re-install Windows 

  1. Launch the Settings app using the Windows + I shortcut key.
  2. Scroll down the System settings and choose the Recovery option. Fvevol.sys
  3. Locate and hit the Reset PC button under the Recovery options section.
  4. A Reset this PC window will appear. Select the Keep my files option to reset Windows without affecting your data. Fvevol.sys
  5. On the next window, select the method you would like to opt for reinstalling Windows. You can go with the Local reinstall if you wish to install Windows locally on your PC. Fvevol.sys

Reinstalling Windows will reset all the misconfigured settings and will restore the system files to the default state, fixing the fvevol.sys BSoD error. 

So, these are the fixes that you should implement to get past the never-ending BSoD loop because of fvevol.sys failure. 

In case you also encounter the Hswultpep.sys BSOD error, refer to this guide to easily resolve the problem.

Which of these methods worked in your case, do let us know in the comments. 

What is User32.dll & How to Fix its Errors?

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Users have reported coming across an error associated with the User32.dll file when trying to use a program on their Windows PC. This is one of the common DLL missing on Windows errors that you will face on your PC.

We will also explain what this Dynamic Link Library file means and how you can resolve errors associated with it. Let us get right into it.

What is User32.dll?

The User32.dll is a system DLL file that is used by the system to store graphical elements such as dialogue boxes, and windows.

If this gets corrupt, then you will issue it as soon as you open any program on your PC. The error message related to User32.dll could also pop up when the program wrongly accesses this DLL file.

It is usually located inside C:\Windows\System32 for 32-bit and for 64-bit in C:\Windows\SysWOW64\. Some of the common error messages that you will get related to User32.dll includes:

  • User32.dll Not Found
  • This application failed to start because User32.dll was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problem
  • Cannot find (location)\User32.dll
  • The file User32.dll is missing
  • Cannot start (program). A required component is missing: User32.dll. Please install (program) again

Let us take a look at the solutions that will help you resolve the error related to User32.dll on your system.

How can I fix User32.dll errors?

Before getting into any complex troubleshooting, you should make sure that you are running the latest Windows update version on your PC.

This makes sure that there aren’t any version conflicts within your system. Now, let’s start with the solutions below.

1. Use a dedicated tool

To fix system-related DLL files, you shouldn’t use any download website to get the specific DLL. This is because they could be infected and cause further harm to your PC.

So, to avoid such situations, we would suggest you use a dedicated and one of the best DLL fixing tools.

Using our suggestion, you will be able to fix system-related DLL 100%, and third-party DLL errors as well. You can further use it to clean out junk files on your PC and also boost your PC’s performance.

2. Run SFC Scan and DISM

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Command Prompt and run it as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the process to complete.
  5. Type the below commands and hit Enter after each one. dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

Fixing the corrupt or missing system files can easily resolve most of the common DLL errors on your PC. Simply follow the steps and fix the problem.

3. Reinstall the program

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Choose your program and hit the Uninstall button.
  5. Visit the official website of the program.
  6. Download and install it on your PC.

Many of our readers have fixed the problem of User32.dll by simply reinstalling the program. You can follow the above steps and reinstall the program to resolve the issue.

4. Perform System Restore

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

If nothing works, then simply restore your system back to a state where everything was working normally on your PC by going through the System Restore process.

That is it from us in this guide. For users facing DLL missing errors on Windows 11, we have a guide that explains all the solutions to resolve the problem.

Several readers have also reported coming across the avformat-55.dll error and missing Wnaspi32.dll file, which you can easily resolve by applying the solutions in our guide.

We have also explained properly what is Wbload.dll and how you can fix Wbload.dll. Feel free to let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions resolved the User32.dll problem for you.

USB Device Over Current Status Detected: 3 Ways to Fix

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

We use all sorts of devices on our PCs, but many users reported USB device over current status detected message on their computer.

This error can cause many problems, and in many cases, Windows won’t boot due to it. As you can see, this can be a troublesome error, so fixing it as soon as possible is important.

Before we start fixing this issue, let’s learn what causes it in the first place.

What does USB device over current status mean?

This error message appears when there’s an issue with your USB port, and it’s usually caused by the following:

  • Short circuit on USB ports – Sometimes your pins can get bent, causing the USB port to short circuit.
  • Connection issues – In some cases, USB headers aren’t properly connected, so you need to check if everything is tightly connected.
  • Faulty motherboard – In the worst-case scenario, it’s possible that your motherboard is damaged and that’s what’s causing the issue.

How do I fix USB over current status detected?

Before we start fixing this issue, there are a few potential solutions that you might want to consider:

  • Check your connections – Few users reported that the cable orientation going from the USB header to the motherboard was wrong. Simply by changing the orientation of the cable that connects to the motherboard, the issue was resolved.
  • Check USB ports – Sometimes, pins on USB ports can get bent, and that can cause this problem to appear. In some cases, it’s possible to bend the pins on your own and fix the issue; however, we wouldn’t recommend this if your device is under warranty.
  • Motherboard replacement – Your motherboard may be having issues, so in some cases, the replacement is the only option available.

1. Disconnect everything from your PC

  1. Disconnect all cables from your PC.
  2. Now press and hold the Power button for 30 to 60 seconds.
  3. After doing that, connect all the cables again.
  4. Turn on your PC and check if the problem is still there.

Some users are also suggesting disconnecting all devices and trying to boot your PC, so you can try that as well.

2. Enable Re-Size BAR Support in BIOS

  1. Restart your PC. Keep pressing F2 of Del to enter BIOS.
  2. Navigate to Settings and select Advanced. Choose PCIe and then select PCI Sub-system Settings.
  3. Locate Re-Size BAR Support and enable it.
  4. Save changes.

For more information, check our guide on how to access BIOS if you’re having trouble following these steps.

3. Disconnect the USB panel

  1. Pinpoint the USB port that is causing this error.
  2. Turn off your PC and open the computer case.
  3. Locate the USB header on the motherboard that goes to that port
  4. Disconnect the cable.

After doing that, check if the problem is resolved.

We hope you found this guide useful and that you managed to fix the USB device over current status detected error.

In case the problem is still there, you might want to check our USB ports not working guide for more potential solutions.

What solution worked for you? Share it with us in the comments section below.

Firefox Tabs Keep Crashing Constantly: How to Stop & Fix It

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Firefox is a great browser with a lot of features, but it’s not perfect. Sometimes your tabs keep crashing which can stall your work for long periods. When that happens, it can be annoying. 

You might be able to get it working again by reinstalling Firefox. But if the problem continues after that, you’ll need to start troubleshooting to get to the bottom of things. So, why do Firefox tabs keep crashing?

Sometimes, you get a Firefox crash report or crash log but often, you’re left with a confusing gah. your tab just crashed error message that won’t disappear from your screen and that’s pretty much it.

A common reason why your Firefox tabs keep crashing is an extension that’s causing problems with Firefox. Extensions can cause problems with all kinds of things, including Firefox battery usage and performance issues.

If you have an extension installed that’s causing such issues, disabling it may solve your problem.

Why do my tabs keep crashing Firefox? 

If you’re using Firefox, and you’ve noticed that your tabs keep crashing, it could be due to one or more of the following reasons:

  • Slow or faulty hardware – If there is not enough memory available on your computer system for Firefox to run smoothly without any hiccups, then it will lead to crashes. 
  • A temporary network problem – If your Internet connection is slow or if the server that hosts your favorite sites is down temporarily, this can cause some websites to load slowly or not at all — which can make Firefox unstable.
  • Malware infection – Malware such as viruses and spyware often affect the stability of web browsers like Firefox. Don’t hesitate to use an antivirus for safe browsing.
  • Too many tabs open – The problem is likely caused by a memory leak that occurs when you have too many tabs open at once in Firefox. Not having enough memory available to handle the task can cause Firefox to crash.

If any of the above causes your Firefox tabs to keep crashing, proceed to attempt one or more of our solutions below.

?️ Quick Tip:

Here’s a speedy way to bypass issues with Firefox tabs constantly crashing. Namely, you can switch to Opera and fix this irritating situation instantly.

Choosing this particular browser will enhance your web navigation with multiple workspaces, pinboards, ad-free websites, and tab tools.

⇒ Get Opera

How do I stop Firefox from closing with the last tab?

1. Update your browser 

  1. Launch your Firefox browser and click on the three horizontal ellipses in the top right corner.
  2. Select Help.
  3. Click on About Firefox.
  4. If your browser is up-to-date, you will get the following dialog box.

We know that sometimes updates can cause Firefox to freeze or not load but generally speaking, keeping your browser up to date is recommended in order to avoid version glitches and other anomalies.

2. Scan for viruses 

  1. Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
  4. Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.

3. Disable extensions

  1. Launch your Firefox browser and click on the three horizontal ellipses in the top right corner.
  2. Click on Add-ons and themes.
  3. Select the extensions you wish to disable by toggling off the button.

If you have tried all of the above methods and your tabs are still crashing, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling the browser or simply try another browser. Sometimes it may just be a matter of downtime and when you try later, the issue will be resolved.

We hope that you have been able to resolve the issue where your Firefox tabs keep crashing and you are back to enjoying a smooth browsing session.

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

DLL Files Missing in Windows 7? 8 Ways to Fix It

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Dynamic Link Libraries, or DLL files, are important for the smooth functioning of your Windows 7 operating system.

In this guide, we will explore the causes of missing DLL files in Windows 7 and provide some solutions for fixing the issue.

What causes the DLL files missing error on Windows 7?

There are various reasons for the missing DLL files on Windows 7; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

  • Deleted accidentally – DLL files can be deleted unintentionally at the time of removing unwanted apps or cleaning your PC. Try reinstalling the affected app.
  • Corrupted system files – These files may get corrupted due to system crashes, malware attacks, or sudden power failures. Try running an SFC scan to fix the error.
  • Faulty installation – DLL files can be missing if a program was interrupted when getting installed on your computer. Reinstall the affected app.
  • System errors – System errors such as blue screen errors or stop errors can also cause DLL files to go missing or become corrupted.
  • Software installation – When installing or updating a program, DLL files required by that program may be overwritten or deleted.

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

How can I fix the DLL files missing error on Windows 7?

Perform the following preparatory checks to ensure that the error is not a result of basic issues which may require only subtle tweaks:

  • Restart your computer.
  • Try reinstalling the app throwing the error.
  • Ensure your Windows is up to date.
  • Check the Recycle Bin for deleted the DLL file.

If these steps didn’t help you, move to the actual troubleshooting methods to fix the error.

1. Use a DLL fixer

Fixing DLL missing errors manually could be tricky and harm your PC if you are not tech-savvy. Therefore, it is suggested to use a third-party DLL fixer tool to handle this issue effectively.

Such a tool can scan your computer for corrupted DLL files and quickly restore or replace them. Thereby resolving the conflicts between third-party apps & operating systems, enhancing system performance, and achieving greater stability for your PC.

2. Run SFC & DISM scans

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
  3. Copy & paste the following command to repair system files and hit Enter: sfc/scannow
  4. Wait for the scan to complete, then type the following command to restore Windows OS image files and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthSFC SCAN NOW DLL MISSING WINDOWS 7
  5. Once the command is executed successfully, restart your computer to let the changes take effect.

3. Run a malware scan

  1. Select the Start icon, type Microsoft Security Essentials, and then press Enter.
  2. From the Scan options, select Full.Run full scan - DLL missing on Windows 7
  3. Select Scan now.
  4. The tool will scan your computer and list out the threats and remove them to resolve the problem.

You may also choose one of the best antiviruses for Windows 7 and run a full scan on your PC.

4. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.System Properties DLL Missing on Windows 7
  2. Type sysdm.cpl and click OK to open System Properties.
  3. Go to the System Protection tab, and click the System Restore button.Restore DLL files using System Restore
  4. On the System Restore window, click Choose a different restore point and click Next.Choose a different point DLL missing
  5. Select a restore point and click Next.
  6. Click Finish.

Windows will restart and be restored to the chosen point. If System Restore didn’t successfully complete, you can follow the steps mentioned in this informative guide.

5. Reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistribution

Note icon NOTE
This method may work for any DLL file which is associated with the Visual C++ Redistribution package.
  1. Download the Visual C++ Redistribution package from the official website.Visual Studio DLL missing Windows 7
  2. Double-click the installer to initiate the installation.
  3. Click Install and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

6. Perform a clean install

Note icon NOTE
Before performing these steps, make sure you have backed up your computer and have a valid key handy to activate your Windows 7 license.
  1. Insert the Windows 7 installation disc or USB drive into your computer and restart it.
  2. Press any key when prompted to boot from the installation media.
  3. Choose your preferred language, time, currency, and keyboard settings from the options provided and click Next.Click Next, DLL files missing on Windows 7
  4. Click Install now.Windows 7 Install now
  5. Wait for the computer to boot. Next, read and accept the license agreement to proceed with the installation process.
  6. For Which type of installation do you want page, select Custom (advanced).
  7. If you want to create or delete partitions on your hard drive, you can do so during the installation process.
  8. Choose a physical location to store Windows 7.
  9. When the installation is nearly complete, and your system doesn’t restart automatically, then click Restart now.Restart now
  10. The installation will continue; wait for the setup to complete; your computer will restart.
  11. Now you can install the necessary drivers for your hardware and update Windows 7 with the latest security patches and software updates.

Once done, your computer will restart and install the apps that you like. This removes all the data from your computer and will install a fresh copy of Windows 7 on your computer.

7. Perform a Startup Repair

  1. Insert the Windows 7 installation disc or USB drive and restart your computer.
  2. Press any key when prompted to boot from the installation media.
  3. Wait for the Windows to load, then select your language preferences and click Next.
  4. Click Repair your computer on the bottom left corner of the screen. Wait for the System Recovery options to locate Windows 7 on your PC.Repair your Windows 7
  5. Select the operating system you want to repair, i.e., Windows 7, and click Next.
  6. Click Startup Repair.Startup Repair & Repair files DLL files missing WIndows 7
  7. The Startup Repair tool will look for problems with crucial files responsible for the proper functioning of Windows 7. Wait while the tool tries to repair the system files; once done, click Finish. Your computer will restart to complete the process.

If you do not have the installation media, you can access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) by pressing F8 during startup and selecting Repair your computer from the Advanced Boot Options menu.

8. Download a DLL file manually

Note icon NOTE
Using an unreliable website to install DLL files can be dangerous and is never recommended. However, If you know a trusted source, like DLL-FILES, you can follow the steps mentioned to restore the file.
  1. Go to the DLL Files website, search the DLL file using its name, select an appropriate option, and click Download.DLL Files Missing in Windows 7 Download
  2. Double-click the downloaded folder to open it, and locate and copy the .dll file.
  3. Go to this path and paste the file:C:\Windows\System32\
  4. Restart your computer to confirm the changes.

If you are facing missing the DLL files issue on your Windows 10, we advise you to read our informative guide to know solutions for this common problem.

So, these are methods that you can use to fix the DLL missing error on Windows 7. However, we remind you that Windows 7 is obsolete, and we recommend upgrading your OS to Windows 10 or 11.

If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

Lenovo ThinkPad T16 Gen 1 Review:  All about the business

Posted on by David Allen

 

The Good The Not So Good
Only 3.9 Pounds Heavy Throttling Under Load
Large 16 Inch Screen Fingerprint Magnet
Very Quiet Large Charger For 135 Watts

The Lenovo T16 series was created to address a core need of the business audience.  The first generation of the T16 Lenovo accomplished those basic needs with a thin, light boardroom-ready laptop with a 16:10 screen, an array of Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a built-in smart card reader, all packed into a thin and light design.

Specifications and Design

Being local to one of Lenovo’s main offices I was introduced to the ThinkPad lineup in the late 1990s when given a tour of the local assembly line.  I was impressed with the build quality then and even more so more than twenty years later. The build quality caught my attention when I pulled the T16 from its packaging.  Lenovo uses an aluminum top and a Polyphenylene sulfide bottom.  These materials help create a design that’s just 0.81 inches thick and weighs just 3.9 pounds.

Lenovo took the build quality one step further and tested the laptop against 12 military-grade certification methods and over 20 procedures.  When reviewing the T16 I made it my daily driver, in a typical workday it traveled, it was taken in and out of different bags, used on various surfaces and after two months of heavy use no scratches or scuffs were made.  If your travel bag has room for the 16-inch screen the T16 should be a joy to take along for any workday.  Being this thin and light doesn’t come without some drawbacks which we will discuss later in the review.  You can see the specifications table below for all the available configuration options.

Product ThinkPad T16 Gen 1
OS Up to Windows 11 Pro 64 or Linux
Processor Up to Core i7-1280P 14(6 P-Core + 8 E-Core), P-core 1.8GHz/ E-Core 1.3GHz
Graphics Up to NVIDIA GeForce MX550 2GB GDDR6
Memory Up to 48GB (16GB soldered + 32GB SO-DIMM) DDR4-3200
Display
  • 16” WUXGA 16:10 (1920×1200), Anti-glare, 45% NTSC, 300 nits
  • 16” WUXGA 16:10 (1920×1200), Anti-glare, 45% NTSC, 300 nits, Touch
  • 16” WUXGA 16:10 (1920×1200), Anti-glare, 100% sRGB, 400 nits, Low power, Eyesafe Certified
  • 16” WUXGA 16:10 (1920×1200), Anti-glare, 100% sRGB, 500 nits, ThinkPad Privacy Guard, Touch
  • 16” WQXGA 16:10 (2560×1600), Anti-glare, 100%sRGB, 400 nits, Eyesafe Certified
Storage One drive, up to 2TB M.2 2280 SSD
WLAN Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 + Bluetooth™ 5.1
Ports
  • (1) USB 3.2 Gen 1
  • (1) USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Always On)
  • (2) Thunderbolt 4/ USB4 40Gbps (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0, and DisplayPort 1.4)
  • (1) HDMI, up to 4K/60Hz
  • (1) Ethernet (RJ-45)
  • (1) Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm)
  • Optional Ports:
  • (1) Smart Card Reader
  • (1) Nano-SIM card slot (WWAN support models)
Camera Up to FHD 1080p + IR Camera with ThinkPad Webcam Privacy Shutter
Keyboard 6-row, spill-resistant, numeric keypad, backlit, optional LED backlight
Navigation TrackPoint® pointing device and mylar surface multi-touch touchpad (67.6mm x 115mm/ 2.67 x 4.53 inches)
Audio 2 x 2W Stereo speakers, Dolby® Audio
Security Discrete TPM 2.0, TCG certified, Optional Touch style fingerprint reader in power button (match-on-chip), BIOS Security- Power-on password, supervisor password, system management password, NVMe password, USB FIDO device integration, Firmware Resiliency 3.0
Battery Up to 86Wh, Supports Rapid Charge (up to 80% in 1 hr) with 135W AC adapter
Mechanical Starting at 361.9 x 255.5 x 20.5mm (14.25 x 10.06 x 0.81 inches)

Starting at 1.769kg (3.9 lbs)
Color/Materials Storm Grey: Aluminum top, PPS bottom / Thunder Black: PC + 20%CF + 50% GF top, PPS bottom

 

Experience and Performance

When thinking about the user experience with the T16 we must consider the ideal customer.  The ideal buyer would be a small business or corporation that would likely be buying multiple units.  The look and feel in this scenario has less of an impact than being able to get the job done comfortably for the user. In our testing, this is where the T16 shined its brightest.  Opening the lid, immediately seeing the smile-shaped keys, with the red TrackPoint input system in the middle offers something familiar if you’re a long-time Lenovo user, if not the purpose of the TrackPoint can be a bit confusing, it’s not for everyone.  The ample-sized, easy-click diving board-style trackpad will likely be what most users choose for input.  One thing about the keyboard deck that was a bit disappointing is the fingerprint magnet.  So, if appearance during business interactions matters to you.  Make sure you pack your cleaning cloth.

Once you’ve opened the lid and it’s time to tap the power button and get to work, you’re going to notice something right away, near silence. Lenovo really managed to tune the fan curves down on the T-16, but that doesn’t come without some drawbacks we’ll get to in a minute.  Our model came equipped with the Intel Core-I7 1240P CPU.  The 12th generation Intel chip is what I like to call a “short sprinter” chip, it’s good for quick office tasks, compiling some code perhaps, but quickly hits its thermal limits with longer tasks under load such as simple 1080P video edits, while the fans did ramp up a bit if you are attempting some multitasking during the render process, you’d certainly see some slowdowns.

While slowdowns are typical when doing any rendering on a machine that doesn’t have a dedicated GPU, I bring this up for a specific reason.  While with most machines’ light multitasking, and rendering is certainly possible, you would observe screen flicker or a moment of the screen turning off and back on.  This would happen using the laptop screen or an external screen.  The T16 would return to normal operations when the intensive task was over. I attributed this to hitting the thermal limits of the machine.  While this doesn’t ruin the experience of using the T16, it is something prospective buyers should keep in mind.

Wrapping it Up

This is the first generation of the T16 lineup, and as expected nothing is perfect the first time.  However, Lenovo did get a lot right in this first generation. The T16 is a lightweight business machine with a 16:10 screen and ample connectivity with multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports. The 135-watt USB-C charger is a little large for a backpack but you can get 80 percent charge in just one hour, so it’s a good tradeoff when zipping between meetings or traveling.  With the proper expectations going in the first-generation T16 is a solid start opening for this lineup.  The entry-level spec of the T-16 starts just below $1200.

How to Enable or Disable Quiet Hours on Windows 11

Posted on by Taiba Hasan

Quiet Hours is a productivity feature of Windows 11 that helps you disable notifications. When enabled, your PC does not deliver any notifications to the user and stores them in the notifications area. 

Unlike the previous iterations of Windows, there is no direct way to turn on Quiet Hours on Windows 11 but we’ve got you covered.

How do I enable and disable Quiet Hours in Windows 11? 

1. Using Group Policy Editor

  1. Bring up the Run dialog box using the Windows + R keyboard shortcut. 
  2. Type the following command in the text box and hit the OK button. gpedit.msc Enable or disable Quiet Hours
  3. In the Group Policy Editor window, expand User Configuration in the left sidebar followed by Administrative Templates and Start Menu and Taskbar option.
  4. Next, look for the Turn off Quiet Hours option in the right section of the window and double-click it. 
  5. In the next window that pops up, make sure that the Enabled checkbox is selected. Enable or disable Quiet Hours
  6. After making the changes, press the Apply button followed by OK. 

If you ever want to disable the Quiet Hours feature, simply select the radio button next to Disable instead of Enable and hit the Apply button to save the changes. 

You can easily enable and disable the Quiet Hours feature in Windows 11 by modifying the Group Policy Editor.

However, there is a catch! Group Policy Editor is only accessible on Windows Pro and Enterprise editions. To execute the above steps on the Home edition of Windows, you need to enable and install Local Group Policy Editor on your PC. 

2. Using Registry Editor 

Note icon NOTE
Modifying the registry keys is risky so we recommend backing up your registry before implementing these steps.
  1. Open the Run dialog box using the Windows + R shortcut key, type the following command in the text box, and hit OK to launch the Registry Editor. Enable or disable Quiet Hours
  2. The User Action Control prompt pops up, press the Yes button to launch Registry Editor with administrative privileges. 
  3. Navigate to the following path in the Registry Editor window: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Notifications\QuietHours Enable or disable Quiet Hours
  4. In the right section, right-click anywhere on the empty space and choose New from the context menu, followed by DWORD (32-bit) Value from the sub-menu.
  5. Rename this 32-bit DWORD as EnableQuietHours. 
  6. Right-click EnableQuietHours and choose Modify from the context menu. 
  7. In the Edit DWORD (32-bit) value) window, assign 1 in the Value data field, and press OK to save the changes.  Enable or disable Quiet Hours

Now exit the Registry Editor window and restart your PC. The quiet Hours feature will now be enabled on your Windows system upon restart. 

If you ever want to disable Quiet Hours in Windows 11, follow the steps mentioned above. However, assign 0 in the Value data field instead of 1 and press OK to save the changes.  

Modifying the registry is the simplest way to enable Quiet Hours on your Windows 11 PC. 

In case, you make a mistake while modifying the registry and forgot to back it up, learn how to restore the registry from this guide.

That’s how effortlessly you can enable and disable the Quiet Hours feature on your PC running on Windows 11. 

In case you wish to enable and use Focus Assist, a sophisticated version of Quiet Hours for your Windows 11 PC, follow the steps provided in this guide. 

If you have any feedback or suggestions for us, feel free to let us know in the comments section. 

Mso.dll Missing: How to Fix or Download it Again

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Mso.dll is a Dynamic Link Library file that is published by Microsoft. If this file is corrupt or missing on your PC, then it will cause issues with Microsoft Office.

In this guide, we will list down some effective solutions to resolve the Mso.dll missing issue and will help restore it. Let us get right into it.

Most likely any Mso.dll error would pop up because of corrupt registry files, corrupt system files, virus infection, or problematic installation. Let’s now check out the solutions that will help you resolve the Mso.dll error on your system.

How can I fix the Mso.dll missing error?

Before getting into more complicated troubleshooting, ensure that your PC is running the latest Windows update and no drivers are out of date. This helps prevent driver conflict or program version conflicts.

1. Use a dedicated DLL fixing tool

Since the Mso.dll is a system-related DLL, it is important to resolve the errors as they give rise to other issues on your PC.

However, dealing with such DLL errors can be pretty troublesome, if you don’t know where to start. In such a case, we would suggest you take the help of a dedicated DLL fixer.

Such a tool can resolve system-related DLL issues without a doubt. You can also use DLL troubleshooters to fix system crashes, remove viruses or malware, clean out junk files, and more.

2. Reinstall Microsoft Office

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Control Panel and open it.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Select Microsoft Office and hit the Uninstall button.
  5. Follow the on-screen steps to remove the program from your PC.
  6. Visit the official website and download Microsoft Office.
  7. Reinstall it and check if this fixes the issue or not.

Reinstalling the associated program will help you resolve the Mso.dll missing error. You can follow the same steps for reinstalling Microsoft Visual Studio.

3. Run the SFC Scan

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Command Prompt and open it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannowsfc scan
  4. After the process finishes, restart your PC.

Often important system files are replaced, misplaced, or go corrupt because of which you will have multiple issues associated with them. Running the SFC Scan will help you fix the errors associated with system files and hopefully resolve the Mso.dll error as well.

4. Scan your PC for viruses

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Windows Security.Windows Security open Windows key
  3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  4. Select Quick Scan.
  5. You can also click on Scan options and select Full scan for an in-depth scan.
  6. Apply the prompted fixes and restart your PC.

You should often scan your PC for viruses as this can help safeguard your private data also prevent duplicity of important system files.

We have a guide that lists down some of the best antivirus tools that you should check out to keep your PC safe.

Some of the common Mso.dll error messages that you will come across are listed below:

  • Mso.dll Not Found
  • This application failed to start because Mso.dll was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problem.
  • Cannot find (location)\Mso.dll
  • The file Mso.dll is missing.
  • Cannot start (program). A required component is missing: Mso.dll. Please install (program) again.

We have a guide that explains how you can fix DLL issues on your Windows 11 PC. For Windows 10 users, we have a similar guide that explains solutions to resolve DLL errors.

Lastly, don’t forget to check our latest guide and see what to do if msxml4.dll is not found.

Feel free to drop your comment below and let us know which solutions helped you resolve the Mso.dll error on your PC.

Hogwarts Legacy player stats impress following last-gen release

Posted on by Robert Collins

Hogwarts Legacy has been a smashing success by every estimation since its initial release back in February. Just over two months later, the Warner Bros. Games action-RPG reached a staggering $1 billion in sales, and is likely to be the biggest release of the year. And that a year that has so far been stacked with hot releases. The game’s commercial success has been matched by its critical reception, as seen in our Hogwarts Legacy review roundup. 

Earlier this month Hogwarts Legacy finally came to last-gen consoles (excluding on Nintendo Switch, which had its version pushed back for a November release). And going by some of the player stats the game’s official Twitter account published this week, it’s safe to say Hogwarts Legacy’s popularity hasn’t waned much.

According to the post, gamers on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 have played over 17 million hours of game time collectively. The other stats are equally impressive.

Despite the controversy surrounding the game, we’ll likely be hearing more from Hogwarts Legacy before all is said and done. HBO is reportedly working on a TV adaptation, and a sequel is already rumored. Given the game’s success, it would not be the least surprising if we get a Hogwarts Legacy 2 announcement at some point in the not-too-distant future.

Hogwarts Legacy Xbox One Version
Hogwarts Legacy Xbox One Version
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Hogwarts Legacy Xbox One Version
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PnPUtil.exe: What is It & How to Properly Use It?

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

PnPUtil.exe is a command-line utility tool that comes with the Microsoft Windows operating system, starting with Windows Vista, which enables users to manage device drivers and driver packages.

In this guide, we’ll provide a detailed overview of PnPUtil.exe, explain how it works, and show you how to properly use it to manage device drivers in Windows.

What is PnPUtil.exe?

PnPUtil.exe is a command-line tool that provides a wide range of functionalities, including installing, uninstalling, exporting, and querying information about drivers and driver packages.

It can be used to update existing drivers, install unsigned drivers, and enable or disable device drivers.

However, as PnPUtil.exe is a command-line tool, it can be difficult for novice users to use it effectively.

How to use PnPUtil.exe?

Here are a few preliminary checks you should do before using the utility tool:

  • You are logged in to an account with administrative privileges.
  • Must have a driver package on your system.
  • If you want to install an unsigned driver, you should first disable driver signature enforcement on your system.

Now that you have checked all these things let us know how to use the tool.

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Open.Command Prompt Click Open pnputil.exe
  2. Type the following command to navigate to the directory containing PnPUtil.exe and press Enter: cd C:\Windows\System32
  3. To view a list of installed drivers on your system, copy and paste the following command and hit Enter: pnputil -epnputil.exe Command Prompt
  4. You will get a list of all the installed drivers on your computer, along with their publishers, version, and more.
  5. To install a driver package, type the following command after replacing <path_to_driver_inf_file> with the full path to the driver INF file you want to install, and press Enter: pnputil -i -a <path_to_driver_inf_file>cmd import pnputil.exe
  6. Copy & paste the following command after replacing <name_of_driver_package> with the name of the driver package you want to uninstall and hit Enter: pnputil -f -d <name_of_driver_package>Uninstall device
  7. To export a driver package to a text file named <exported_file_name>, type the following command after replacing <name_of_driver_package> with the name of the driver package you want to export and press Enter: pnputil -e -u <name_of_driver_package> > <exported_file_name>.txtExport information about the driver package
  8. Copy & paste the following command to query information about a specific driver package after replacing <path_to_driver_inf_file> with the full path to the driver INF file you want to query and hit Enter: pnputil -a <path_to_driver_inf_file>Install the driver

So, these are the steps you can use PnPUtil.exe to manage device drivers in Windows. You must remember that some PnPUtil.exe commands may require administrator privileges.

However, if the PnPUtil tool seems a bit too complicated, you can use one of the best driver updater software from our list.

If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.