Page 551 • Windows Report

How to Disable Bing Chatbot in Skype [Quickest Ways]

Posted on April 14, 2023October 4, 2023 by Claire Moraa

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots is on the rise, and many businesses are increasingly adopting them as a way to interact with customers. While a significant number of users marvel at all that AI assistants have to offer, not everyone is a fan.

A section of users still prefers the old-fashioned way of using the internet. However, developers seem to be integrating these chatbots into every app. Skype is one of them, and in this article, we show you how to delete/disable the Bing chatbot on Skype.

What is Bing in Skype?

The Bing chatbot is an intelligent agent that can help you get answers to questions. It is a search engine from Microsoft designed to help you find what you’re looking for through various search tools and services.

Although AI has just started gaining traction, Microsoft doesn’t seem to be putting the brakes up anytime soon, as it has already expanded the AI experience to mobile apps.

Bing is integrated into many Microsoft products, such as Windows 11, Skype, and the Edge browser.

You can learn more about how to use Bing on Skype in our comprehensive article. Now onto the topic at hand today. You might be wondering why anyone in their right mind would want to disable Bing chat.

From the ability to search images on the Bing AI chatbot to its availability on the Windows 11 taskbar, the benefits are immense. We have an in-depth Bing AI review, so be sure to soak in all its benefits.

Still, some users feel that it is somewhat intrusive and coerced. The problem seems to be that it won’t go away. Even after deleting it, it reappears the next time you log in.

How do I get rid of the Bing chatbox on Skype?

1. Block Bing

Once you log in to Skype and the Bing chat pops up, long-press on the chat, then select Delete. This will only be a temporary solution to disable the Bing chatbot because if you log out and log in back again, you’ll have to delete the chat again.

You can also pull up the Bing profile and click on Block. The only issue is that it is not a permanent solution.

2. Report as spam

Although not recommended, some users have confessed that reporting the chatbot as spam fixed the issue. Once you log in to your Skype app and receive the Bing chat messages, report them as spam.

This will prevent further communication, and you will no longer receive such messages. It could, however, present problems in the future if you ever want to use the feature again.

3. Use an older version of Skype

The other alternative is to get rid of Bing chat by using an older version of Skype that is yet to receive the Bing chat update. You won’t find an older version from the Microsoft Store or the Skype website.

To find one, you’ll need to go to third-party sites and download an older version. You must, however, exercise caution, as unofficial sites may package software with malware. Ensure you have a reliable antivirus for any eventualities.

While this may work, you may experience some performance and stability issues with the application since it may no longer be optimized to run with the current version of your OS.

4. Contact Microsoft

If none of these methods work, we suggest you leave some feedback for Microsoft. The feature is still improving, and user feedback is important when the next roll of updates is released.

If you’re still figuring out your way with the AI chatbots, we have an interesting head-to-head comparison of Bing vs Bard. These are two of the biggest tech giants, so you may want to have a look.

If you’re a fan of Bing chat and have no issues with the numerous integrations, you may be interested in fixing other issues, such as audio hiccups with the Bing translator.

Should you have any other tricks on how to delete or disable the Bing Chatbot in Skype, share them with us in the comment section.

Windows LAPS isn’t compatible with legacy policies, says Microsoft

Posted on April 14, 2023 by Radu Tyrsina

If you’ve installed April’s Patch Tuesday update, there’s a likelihood that you’ve encountered an interoperability issue between the new Windows Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) and legacy LAPS policies. The update featured a new integration between Windows LAPS on Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2019 or newer releases.

For those not familiar, Windows LAPS is a tool designed to help IT admins manage and back up passwords for local administrator accounts on Azure Active Directory-joined or Windows Server Active Directory-joined devices. It can also be used to manage and back up the Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM) account password on the Windows Server Active Directory domain controllers.

According to Microsoft:

There is a legacy LAPS interop bug in the above April 11, 2023 update. If you install the legacy LAPS GPO CSE on a machine patched with the April 11, 2023 security update and an applied legacy LAPS policy, both Windows LAPS and legacy LAPS will break.

Microsoft has indicated that some of the main tale-tell signs include Windows LAPS event log IDs 10031 and 10032, and legacy LAPS event ID 6. The company has indicated that it’s currently working on a fix to patch this issue.

However, till the fix is available, Microsoft has provided a workaround for the issue. If you’ve encountered this issue and would like to get rid of it, you’ll need to uninstall legacy LAPS under the HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\LAPS\State registry key. Alternatively, you can delete all registry values.

Have you encountered this issue? Let us know in the comments.

via: BleepingComputer

How to fix the 0xC0EA000A Windows Activation Error

Posted on April 14, 2023November 12, 2024 by Claire Moraa

The 0xC0EA000A Windows activation error appears when you don’t have a legitimate copy of the OS. The full message reads It looks like the hardware on this device has changed.

That means you probably have an OEM Windows license but you’ve changed the hardware configuration and the OS detects it as a different PC.

So, before anything else, make sure that you have a valid product key and you have a legitimate copy of Windows. Sometimes Windows may fail to validate your product ke y.

Let’s see how you can fix it.

How do I fix the 0xC0EA000A Windows activation error?

1. Restart the Windows Time service

Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
Type services.msc in the dialog box, then hit Enter.
Find the Windows Time service, right-click on it, and select Properties.
Under the Startup type, click on the drop-down menu, select the Automatic option, and hit Start.
Click Apply and OK to save changes.

Your PC’s clock and that of the Microsoft servers must be in sync for the activation to be successful.

2. Use the Activation troubleshooter

First, you must link your digital license to your Microsoft account. The Microsoft account linked should also be an administrator account.
Hit the Windows key and select Settings.
Click on System and scroll down to Activation.
Select Troubleshoot, and you should see the following message: Windows can’t be activated on your device.
Click on I changed hardware on this device recently, then select Next.
Type and enter the credentials associated with your Microsoft account.
Mark the This is the device I’m using right now checkbox and click Activate.

This step is for users who have recently made hardware changes to their devices. If not, skip this step and proceed to the next one.

If you get to step 7 and don’t have an activation key, you can fix the 0xC0EA000A by purchasing one on the Microsoft Store. In the event that the activation troubleshooter is not working, check out our article on how to fix it.

3. Remove devices from your Microsoft account

Open your web browser, navigate to Microsoft Account web, and sign into your account.
Click on the Devices tab in the top right corner.
Find the device you want to remove from the list and select the Remove device option.
From the pop-up warning page, check the I’m ready to remove this device box and click on Remove.
A new confirmation page will show details about the device you remove, then click Back to Device.

4. Reset the license files

Hit the Windows key, type Powershell in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
Type and Enter the following command: slmgr -ipk <Your product key here>
Next, type the following command, then hit Enter. Don’t worry if nothing happens immediately, as it can take a bit of time: slmgr -ato

5. Sync time and date

Go to Settings.
Select Time & Language > Date & Time.
Turn on Set time automatically and click Sync now under Additional settings.
Try activating Windows again.

6. Reactivate Windows

Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
Run the following command: slmgr.vbs /rearm
Restart your PC and attempt activation again.

7. Run a SFC scan

Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
Type sfc/scannow and press Enter.
Wait for the process to complete and try reactivating your OS again.

What is error code 0xC0EA000A?

If you need more information about the error 0xC0EA000A when trying to activate Windows, it may be because of one or more of the following reasons:

Pirated version – The most common reason people can’t activate Windows is that they don’t have a genuine copy of the operating system.
Incorrect product key – If your product key is not working, you may have entered it incorrectly, or it’s the wrong one.
Hardware changes – If you have recently changed critical parts on your PC, such as the motherboard, your PC may not match the unique ID stored on Microsoft servers.
The product key has already been used – Windows licenses are usually tied to a specific hardware configuration and cannot be transferred to another computer if already used.
Different Windows editions – It’s possible that the edition of Windows running doesn’t match the edition of Windows used to activate the current edition.

At times, your copy of Windows may become non-genuine for any reason. As such, it may be possible for you to reset your license. When resetting your license key, ensure you’re the owner of a legitimate copy of the Microsoft Windows operating system.

Another approach would be to transfer the Windows license to another device. However, this is only relatively easy for digital licenses. If you have a PC with an OEM license, transferring it can be extremely difficult and not without risks.

And that’s how to resolve the activation error 0xC0EA000A. For any additional thoughts on this topic, feel free to comment below.

Here are 7 of the most popular Power Automate prebuilt templates to try out

Posted on April 14, 2023 by davew

Power Automate is one of the most popular business process automation tools available. This cloud-based platform enables users to automate repetitive tasks across a range of different applications and services with little to no coding experience. The Microsoft’s Power Automate website offers a massive selection of popular Power Automate prebuilt templates to choose from, making it simple to find the best option for your business operations.

7 Popular Power Automate prebuilt templates

Here are seven of the highest-ranking Power Automate prebuilt templates and their benefits for businesses:

Save Outlook email attachments to a SharePoint library and receive a notification: This template allows you to filter email attachments by sender, type, or subject and save them directly to SharePoint. This feature enhances effective document management and organization. Don’t worry, there’s even a template if you want to save attachments to OneDrive too.
Find similar Power Automate prebuilt templates via search.
Get notifications for new Microsoft Forms survey responses: If you frequently use Microsoft Forms to conduct surveys, this flow will come in handy. You can get notified instantly whenever someone submits a response, allowing you to stay up to date with all feedback shared by your users.
Get daily weather forecasts in your email: This template sends you email notifications with the daily weather forecast for your chosen location. It’s perfect for those who need to stay updated on weather conditions, especially if your work is affected by weather changes.
More specific weather options are available.
Save specific tweets to a SharePoint list and get a notification: This Power Automate prebuilt template is particularly useful for businesses that are monitoring social media platforms, like Twitter. The flow saves tweets to a SharePoint list and can be used to collate social media content and analyze user feedback for marketing purposes. You’ll get a push notification when the flow is successfully run.
Extract contact details from an email and send to Outlook: This template sets up an integration allowing you to organize and sort incoming emails and attachments and automatically save the extracted information as new contacts in Outlook.
Analyze email sentiment with AI Builder and send results to Teams: When you get a new email in Office 365 Outlook, you will get a message in Microsoft Teams that contains the email details and analysis, so you don’t need to bother even reading emails anymore.
Rely on the AI Builder to extract other data, not just contact information.
Get a push notification when you receive an email from your boss: This flow is useful for users who receive emails from their boss frequently. It sends a push notification to your mobile device when you receive an email from your boss, allowing you to stay responsive and efficient.

Power Automate prebuilt templates provide a wide range of options for automating business processes. The seven most popular Power Automate prebuilt templates covered in this guide are just the tip of the iceberg and are just a few examples of the innovative automation benefits businesses can expect to leverage. By automating your repetitive, mundane, and time-consuming tasks, you can save time, minimize errors and improve your organizational efficiency. Power Automate prebuilt templates reduce the need to code while still enabling your organization to create efficient and effective processes that drive productivity, quality, and value. Overall, by utilizing these flows, you can streamline many business processes, enhance communications & efficiency while carving out invaluable time to focus on more important tasks.

How to View Blurred Images on Websites: 4 Ways

Posted on April 13, 2023October 2, 2024 by Vlad Turiceanu

It can be quite frustrating when images are blurred on a certain page, and in this guide, we’re going to show you how to unblur an image on a website, so let’s get started.

Some websites are blurred because they want to restrict their content to only registered or paying users. Others want to interact with the website before revealing the whole content.

How do I remove the blur from a website?

1. Use the Reader mode

Open the page with blurred content.
Next, activate the Reader mode. It’s usually located in the address bar.
Your page with images should now be unblurred.

2. Use the Google Translate tool

Open the website and copy the URL of the page.
Then, go to Google Translate and paste the URL into the text box on the left.
Click on the URL that appears on the right.
After completing the steps above, a new tab with an unblurred version of the page will open.

3. Use the Internet Archive tool

Copy the URL of the page with the blurred content you want to view.
Then, go to Internet Archive and paste the URL into the WayBack Machine search bar to check if the page was archived.
Now, select the page version you want to view by picking the latest archived version based on date and time.
This should direct you to the archived version you selected, where you can see the blurred content.

4. Use the Inspect Element tool

Right-click anywhere on the page you want to unblur and select Inspect or Inspect Element.
Once the Inspect section pops out on your browser window, look for the line starting with aside class=”Paywall”.
Next, right-click on the line and select Delete element from the context menu. Doing this will remove the page’s blocker element.
Now, change the next line of code which starts with <body… In that line, you’ll find the style=”overflow: hidden;” code.
Finally, right-click on this section and select Edit attribute. Change the attribute value from hidden to visible and press the Enter key.

The Inspect tool is one of the most common methods to reveal blurred content on a website. It can also be used to check your website’s source code, HTML, and other aspects.

That’s it on how to unblur texts and images on a website. You can work your way through any of the techniques provided in this article to know which suits your need.

If you’re using Chrome, we have a great guide on how to fix Chrome if it’s blurry, so don’t miss it. For more advanced users, you can try to unblur images in Adobe Photoshop.

Let us know if you have any questions in the comment section below.

How to adjust active hours on Xbox

Posted on April 13, 2023October 4, 2023 by Rafly Gilang

It’s that time of the month for Xbox users, as Microsoft rolled out its monthly patch for security and improvement on Xbox’s consoles. This time in the April 2023 update, Redmond officials rolled out adjustable active hours power settings.

With the Xbox April Update, if you have the Sleep power option selected on your Xbox, you can configure your console active hours, which default to “always active” unless you change them. During your selected active hours your Xbox will boot quickly and be available for activities like Remote Play and mobile game installs.

To sum it up, this feature allows the console to automatically shuts down instead of sleep when you turn it off outside those active hours. You can adjust them manually or let the system pick them for you automatically, depending on your playing patterns.

So, how to adjust active hours on Xbox, you may ask? If you relate to this question, here’s how you can do just that.

How to adjust your active hours on Xbox

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller

2. Go to Profile & system ➜ Settings ➜ System ➜ Updates.

3. Once updated, restart your console and press the Xbox button again.

4. Go back to Settings ➜ General ➜ Power options.

5. If you select the Sleep power option, you can now adjust active hours. From the Adjust active hours drop-down, select Manually if you want to do it manually or the other option if you want to let the system do it for you

6. Select the start and the end of your active hours.

In the meantime, Microsoft has also made its commitment to green gaming loud and clear by launching a carbon-aware downloading mechanism back in February 2023. In short, when the console is on and connected to the internet, the system will schedule updates for apps and games at specific times during the nightly maintenance window.

What do you think about this active hours adjustment feature on Xbox? Let us know in the comments.

3 Easiest Ways to Change File Type on Windows 11

Posted on April 13, 2023January 12, 2024 by Vladimir Popescu

The operating system can identify and open any file using the file extension of the respective item. But, the file may sometimes not open if the format is incorrect.

So, you need to change the file type to make Windows open it with the appropriate app. In this article, we will provide you with all you need to know about how to change file types in Windows 11.

Why do I need to change file types on Windows 11?

You may need to change your file format type on a Windows 11 PC for several reasons. We have discussed some of those reasons, as seen below:

Compatibility – Some applications or devices may require specific file types to function properly, and converting your files to these formats can help ensure seamless integration.
Accessibility – Another possible reason for changing file types is that it improves accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
File Size – Different file types have varying sizes, and you may need to change the file type to reduce the file size. Changing the file type can be helpful when sending large files over the internet or storing them on a device with limited storage capacity.
Security purposes – Changing file types may also enhance security. For example, you may want to convert a file to a password-protected ZIP file to prevent unauthorized access or to encrypt a file to protect sensitive data.
Editing – Some file types may not be editable in their original format. Hence, you may need to convert it to a format compatible with your preferred image editing software.
Compression – In some cases, changing the file type can help compress the file without losing quality.

Now that you know some of the potential reasons why you may need help with changing your file format, let us proceed to how you can change the file types.

How can I change the file types on Windows 11?

1. Rename the file in File Explorer

Press the Windows + E to open File Explorer.
Click on the View tab in the top menu area. Then select Show, and click on File name extensions to check the box next to it.
Now, right-click on the file and click Rename icon to change the file type.
Next, change the file extension (everything after the last period) to the file type character that you want. Press Enter to save the changes.

Although this is a viable technique to change a file type, you can’t change a .doc file to a .wav file.

You can only change the file type by renaming the file if the two file types are associated or similar enough for the file to still open after renaming.

2. Use online converting tools

NOTE

This process has been tested and proven to be safe by our expert.

Go to an online converter website, such as Zamzar and click Choose files.
Select the file that you want to convert and click Open.
Choose the file type.
Then, click on Convert Now.
Once the file is converted, download it.

You can also check convertio.co, Ilovepdf.com, etc. All you need to do while on those sites is simply upload the file, select the new file type, and convert.

3. Using the Save As feature

Open the Word file and click on the File menu on the ribbon.
Then, select the Save As option from the left pane.
Next, choose a location for the file to be saved.
In the Save As window, you’ll see the box to change the file name and the Save As Type or Format option.
Click on the drop-down button to view the available formats and select PDF (or anyone you prefer).
Finally, click on Save.

This will immediately change the file format to your selected file type. You can also add tags to the file to differentiate it from the original one when searching for it.

And that’s it on how to change a file type on Windows 11. In case you have come across the PA file extension and want to know how to open it, read this guide.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please use the comments section below.

Wdiwifi.sys BSoD Error: How to Fix It in 3 Steps

Posted on April 13, 2023September 27, 2025 by Vladimir Popescu

Several complaints have been received this past few weeks regarding the blue screen issues and recently, some of our readers reported the wdiwifi.sys blue screen of death error message.

Have you encountered this error message while using your PC, but you don’t seem to know what it means or how to get past the issue? Worry less, this article will provide you with all you need to know.

What is wdiwifi.sys?

Wdiwifi.sys is a system file that is part of the Microsoft Windows operating system. It is primarily associated with Wi-Fi connectivity and is responsible for managing wireless network connections.

The file is a driver that allows Windows to communicate and connect with wireless network adapters and provides essential functionality for wireless networking.

The wdiwifi.sys file is typically located in the Windows\System32\drivers directory and is loaded into the system’s memory when the computer starts up. This makes wdiwifi.sys a critical system file.

What causes the wdiwifi.sys?

The wdiwifi.sys message does not come up unless there’s an error. Below are some of the potential reasons behind the wdiwifi.sys BSOD error message;

Outdated or corrupted driver – If the Wi-Fi driver for your hard drive is outdated or corrupted, it can cause the wdiwifi.sys BSOD error message to appear. Updating the driver to the latest version may resolve the problem.
Malware infection – Malware can infect your system files, including the wdiwifi.sys driver, and cause it to malfunction. Running a thorough malware scan may help identify and remove any infections.
Hardware issues – A faulty hard drive or other hardware components may also cause the wdiwifi.sys BSOD error message to appear. Running hardware diagnostics or seeking assistance from a professional may help identify and resolve any hardware issues.
Conflicting third-party programs – Certain software, such as antivirus programs, firewalls, or system utilities, may conflict with the wdiwifi.sys driver and cause the error message to appear. Temporarily disabling or uninstalling conflicting apps may resolve the issue.
System configuration changes – Changes to your system configuration, such as installing new hardware or software, may also cause the wdiwifi.sys BSOD error message to appear. Reversing any recent changes or performing a system restore to a previous point in time may help resolve the issue.

Now that you know some of the possible causes of the wdiwifi.sys BSOD error message, let’s proceed to how you can fix this problem.

How can I fix the wdiwifi.sys BSoD error?

Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks, you should consider performing the following preliminary checks;

Restart your PC.
Update your outdated drivers.
Perform a system restore – You can try performing a system restore to a previous point in time before your computer encountered the problem
Try to inspect changes to your hardware for possible issues, especially your RAM.

Having confirmed the above checks if the problem persists, you can explore the advanced solutions provided below to know what works for you.

1. Update the Wi-Fi driver

Left-click the Starts menu to open the Power User menu. Then, select Device Manager.
Find and expand the Network adapters category. Right-click on your Wi-Fi adapter and select Update driver.
Now, choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software and wait for the update process to complete.
Then, restart your computer.

The first step of fixing the wdiwifi.sys BSoD error is to update the Wi-Fi driver on your computer.

In any case, you can perform this without any effort and automatically update all drivers with an expert driver tool.

After installation, the software will start with a full system scan to detect outdated drivers and then fix them right away.

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2. Roll back your Wi-Fi driver

Left-click the Starts menu to open the Power User menu. Then, select Device Manager.
Find and expand the Network adapters category. Right-click on your Wi-Fi adapter and select Properties.
Navigate to the Driver tab. Select Roll Back Driver and follow the prompts to complete the process.
Restart your PC.

If updating the Wi-Fi driver does not fix the wdiwifi.sys BSoD error, you can try rolling back the driver to an earlier version.

3. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box. Type mdsched.exe in the dialog box and press Enter.
Choose the option to restart now and check for problems.
Wait for the tool to finish checking your memory. Check the results and make any necessary repairs.
Restart your computer.

Sometimes the wdiwifi.sys BSoD error may be triggered due to a problem with your computer’s memory. Hence the need to run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.

And that’s it on how to fix the wdiwifi.sys BSoD error. If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

AMD Driver Error 182: How to Fix in 5 Steps

Posted on April 13, 2023September 27, 2025 by Vlad Turiceanu

AMD is one of the most popular GPUs available today. However, users have reported several technical issues with certain products, one of which includes driver error 182.

This error is triggered during an update and prevents them from updating the driver. In this article, we’ll provide the five best ways to resolve AMD driver error 182.

What causes AMD Driver Error 182?

Here are some of the most common causes of AMD driver error 182:

Unsupported Product – AMD software is the primary resource for AMD auto updates. Some versions of AMD drivers require users to update using the web app. If you attempt to update such drivers using the software, you can run into error 182.
Corrupt GPU Drivers – In some cases, error 182 can be triggered due to corrupt AMD driver files. When this happens, you’ll need to perform a clean install of the drivers to rid your PC of the error.
Corrupt System Files – System files can get corrupted due to viruses, forced system shutdowns, failed software installations, etc.
Conflict Between Integrated GPU and AMD GPU – If you’re working with an older version of an integrated graphics card, e.g. an ATI Radeon GPU, you’ll likely trigger the error 182 because the AMD software is attempting to update the integrated GPU rather than the dedicated GPU.

In such cases, you’ll have to uninstall the integrated graphics card to allow the dedicated GPU to be updated.

How can I fix the AMD Driver Error 182?

Apply the following preliminary checks before anything:

Ensure your Graphics Card is Properly Connected.
Update your Windows Operating System.
Reset Windows.

Then try the following steps if the error persists.

1. Update the driver

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
In the Settings app, click Windows Update tab and click on Check for Updates on the right pane to see if there are any available updates.
If Windows discovers any update after the search, it’ll be installed automatically.

A computer that runs outdated software is likely to experience bugs and errors. Keeping your PC updated helps keep your PC error-free.

If you run into the Windows Update not working error, do well to read our guide on how to resolve it.

As opposed to the steps above, you can actually update all your PC drivers safely with a tailored driver solution.

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2. Disable Integrated Graphics card

Press the Windows key, type in Device Manager, and hit Enter.
Then, expand Display Adapter, right-click on your Integrated GPU, and click Disable Device.
Close the Device Manager, and restart your PC.

3. Run SFC/DISM scans

Press the Windows key, type in CMD, right-click on the displayed result, and select Run as Administrator.
Click Yes to grant the app administrative access in the User Account Control window.
Then, input the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
After entering the command, type the following and hit Enter: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image / Restorehealth
Wait for the scan to be completed, and reboot your PC.

DISM scans are used to resolve errors triggered by corrupt system files. Running the scan can help resolve the AMD Driver error 182.

4. Perform a Clean boot

Press the Windows key + R, type in msconfig and hit Enter to open the System Configuration window.
Navigate to the Services tab. Check the box next to the Hide all Microsoft services box, then click on Disable all.
Navigate to the Startup tab, and click on Open Task Manager.
In the Task Manager window, right-click on every available entry, and select Disable.
Close the Task Manager window.
While in the System Configuration window, navigate to the Boot tab, and check the box next to Safe Boot. Click Apply and click OK.
Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.

If the error disappears after the Clean Boot, you can begin enabling each of the Services simultaneously until you discover the problematic software. Once it’s found, you’ll need to disable it permanently.

After performing a clean boot, you’ll need to restart your PC. However, some users have reported that the computer won’t restart.

5. Update drivers using the AMD driver Selector

Press the Windows key, type in the name of your preferred browser, and hit Enter.
In your web browser, navigate to the official AMD driver download page.
On the AMD page, scroll down to the section below the Download section, and type in the name of your Graphics card or manually select your GPU from the menu below. Then, click Submit.
Click the Drivers tab at the top of the window, then expand the drop-down menu associated with your operating system.
Click the Download button and wait for the file to be completely downloaded.
Once the download is complete, double-click on the .exe file, and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.

The AMD software comprises a series of generic drivers that supports a range of graphic products. However, there are certain AMD products that are not supported by the AMD software.

If your graphics card falls into any of those categories, the AMD software will most likely be unable to update your graphics card. In such a case, your only option is to update your graphics card using the AMD Driver Selector.

If you don’t mind the data loss, you can go for a clean Windows install. However, if you wish to keep your personal files, you should perform a Windows repair install.

Office Insider program: How to join & why should you

Posted on April 13, 2023October 4, 2023 by Rafly Gilang

Microsoft always continues to innovate with its software, especially the 365 productivity apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more. To do so, Redmond officials usually roll out updates and experiments with new features on users that join its Office Insider program.

Long story short, this is similar to Microsoft’s Windows Insider program, but exclusively for office apps on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. The channel was announced first in 2015 as the Office Insider program but later rebranded as Microsoft 365 Insider in 2023 as a part of its transition from Office to Microsoft 365.

“Our goals are to help you learn about all of the upcoming Microsoft 365 features, apps and services, and to deliver content that you are interested in, no matter which preview program or update channel the updates are released through.”

With that said, however, not everyone can join the Insider program. If you have your 365 license from school or work, you’d need to contact your administrator to move you to the program. Only those with a 365 Family or Personal subscription can install the builds.

So, how do I get in and what are the perks, you may ask? If you relate to these questions, then this article is for you. Here’s how to join Microsoft Office 365 Insider program and why should you.

How to join Microsoft Office 365 Insider program

1. Open any 365 program. Word, Excel, or PowerPoint would do.

2. On the upper left of your screen, click Account ➜ Product Information.

3. If you’re eligible, you should see the Office Insider button that you can click below Office Updates.

4. Click Join Microsoft 365 Insider.

5. In the Join Microsoft 365 Insider dialog box, tick the box next to the Sign me up for early access to new releases of Microsoft 365 check box.

6. Select the Insider channel you want, which we will explain in a bit.

7. Click the box to agree to the terms and conditions.

8. Click OK.

What are the perks of joining the Insider program?

No matter how few those updates are, Microsoft always tests them on Insiders’ devices on the Office Insider before rolling them out for general users.

Now, as Redmond officials are working closely for a better, newer generation of Microsoft Teams or the GPT4-powered Copilot for example, only Insiders will get the first access to those features before anyone else.

Moreover, there are two Insider levels available called Beta and Current Channel (Preview). The difference between them is that Beta is dedicated to those who want to identify issues and provide feedback on features that are still far from primetime while Preview is most likely for first-time adopters — less frequent, more stable updates.

As you may also have guessed, you’ll also be more likely to encounter a few hiccups and bugs here and there while accessing builds from Beta, so it’s up to you to decide.

Do you want to join the Office 365 Insider program? Let us know in the comments!

Dynamiclink.dll: What Is It & How to Fix It if It’s Missing

Posted on April 13, 2023April 2, 2024 by Milan Stanojevic

DLL files are essential for Windows and other applications to work properly. One of these DLLs is dynamiclink.dll.

However, many users don’t know what this DLL file is, and others reported that it’s completely missing from their PC. Speaking of which, we already wrote about missing DLL files in Windows 10 in a separate guide, so be sure to check it out.

If you’re having issues with this file, you’re in luck because today we’re going to explain how this file works and how to restore it if it’s missing.

What is dynamiclink.dll?

Dynamiclink.dll is a part of the DynamicLink Media Server feature in Adobe software. This feature is designed to prevent users from rendering by offering an alternative.

Using it you can share files between the two Adobe apps, by linking them together. By doing so, if you make a change in a single Adobe app, the changes will be applied to the file linked dynamically with other apps.

It’s an incredibly useful feature that allows you to edit files and collaborate better with others.

What can I do if dynamiclink.dll is missing?

1. Use a dedicated DLL fixer

Fixing DLL manually can be a tedious task and somewhat dangerous, especially if you download your files from third-party sources. So why not use specialized DLL repair software?

Many problems can occur because of compatibility issues with third-party DLLs and your operating system, but luckily, this software can help you.

2. Reinstall Adobe software

Press Windows key + X and choose Apps and Features from the menu.
Locate the Adobe product that you want to reinstall.
Select it and click on Uninstall.
Follow the steps on the screen to remove it.
Once the software is removed, install it again and check if that solves the issue.

Many users reported issues with dynamiclink.dll in Photoshop CS6, but other Adobe software can also experience these problems.

We hope this guide has helped you understand better what a dynamiclink.dll file is and how it works. Missing DLL files can cause problems on any version of Windows, and to learn more, be sure to read our guide on missing DLL files on Windows 11.

Did you ever had issues with this file, and how did you fix them? Let us know in the comments section below.

What is Bthmodem.sys & How to Fix Its BSoD Crashes

Posted on April 13, 2023October 26, 2025 by Claire Moraa

The bthmodem.sys blue screen error occurs when the bthmodem.sys driver file on your PC is missing or corrupt. This file is an extension of the Bluetooth Modem Device driver and is used to connect your computer to a Bluetooth device.

If this file becomes corrupt, it will cause Windows to crash and display the infamous BSoD error message. It may be accompanied by a code that identifies the problem driver causing the crash or not. Regardless of the situation, there are various ways to fix it.

What is the bthmodem.sys file?

The Bluetooth Modem Communications driver is also known as the bthmodem.sys file. It is a driver that allows your computer to communicate with your Bluetooth device.

When you connect a new device to your computer, Windows automatically installs the needed drivers. This can sometimes cause problems if you encounter driver errors, especially if those drivers aren’t up to date or incompatible with the hardware you’re trying to use.

That’s where the bthmodem.sys BSoD error might occur. The bthmodem.sys BSoD error can be caused by a faulty driver, which can be a hardware or software-related issue. This BSoD is usually caused by improper installation of the device driver or an outdated version of it.

Other causes include:

Hardware/software change – A recent hardware or software change might have installed a file that is causing conflicts with the bthmodem driver.
Virus – If you don’t have a co m prehensive antivirus solution, malware infection can impact your system’s performance and cause the BSoD error to appear.
PC hardware failure – If your PC hardware malfunctions, it may cause this Blue Screen of Death error message to appear on your computer screen.

How do I fix the bthmodem.sys BSoD error?

If you are experiencing this issue, then we recommend that you follow these steps:

Check for Windows updates.
Uninstall any recently installed software and hardware.
Run a hardware diagnostic test and check for any hardware failure.

1. Update your Bluetooth drivers

Enter into Safe Mode, click on the Start Menu icon, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
Find your Bluetooth device, right-click and select Update driver.
Select Search automatically for drivers.
Restart your PC and try reconnecting.

Consequently, you can use a driver updater utility, as Windows can sometimes match you with the wrong drivers. Outbyte Driver Updater will scan your system and automatically identify all outdated drivers.

The tool has a built-in database containing over 5000 drivers for different devices. If you don’t know what driver is missing or broken, you can use this program to scan all the installed devices on your PC and let it find out which one needs an update.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Install or update the Bluetooth driver in minutes and fix the unpleasant BSoD errors.

Free trial Visit website

2. Run the DISM and SFC scans

Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands and press Enter after each one: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth sfc /scannow
Restart your PC.

A lot of users reported that the DISM scan was clean, but the SFC scan found errors, so be sure to run both. Consequently, you can opt for an intelligent automatic tool to do the repairs. A system repair software can scan and repair corrupted files and will find any issues that may be causing problems with your PC’s performance or stability.

3. Run a virus scan

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

With the built-in Windows Security feature, it may not always catch wind of all viruses and malware. You’ll need a comprehensive suite of security software.

TotalAV provides the best protection for your PC against all types of malware, including viruses, spyware, and other malicious programs. The program includes real-time scanning and proactive protection against new threats.

4. Restore the default configuration of the driver

Press the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command and hit Enter: sc config BTHMODEM start= demand
Restart the PC.

The restore default configuration of the driver option restores the default settings for all of the parameters used by the driver. This option is an alternative for rolling back previous driver versions, but the option is unavailable in Device Manager.

5. Perform a System Restore

Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui, and hit Enter.
The System Restore window will open. Click on Next.
Select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
Now click on Finish.

Remember that a System Restore only works if you had created a restore point prior.

That brings us to a close on the bthmodem.sys BSoD error. Hopefully, one of the solutions above has helped resolve this issue.

You may also encounter another BSoD-related error dubbed the bthad2p.sys error, so don’t hesitate to check out our expert article on how to fix it. Our latest guide covers BC_Bthmini_Verifier_Fault, so you might want to check it out for more information.

Leave a comment below, letting us know which method worked for you.

0x80020010 Windows Update Error: 4 Ways to Fix It

Posted on April 13, 2023April 2, 2024 by Henderson Jayden Harper

Some of our readers have reported running into the error 0x80020010 during a Windows Update process. The error occurs when Windows Servers are restarted out of schedule despite the Group Policy specification. However, this guide will discuss basic fixes for the error.

Also, we have a comprehensive guide about the Windows Update error 0xc1900401 and ways to resolve it on Windows 11.

What causes Windows Update error 0x80020010?

The 0x80020010 Windows Update error can occur for reasons such as:

Issues with Window update components – Numerous components are responsible for the update process. If they are not intact or they are inaccessible, it can cause errors. You can repair the Windows Update components by following the steps in this guide.
System files are corrupt – When you have corrupt system files necessary for the update, they may impede the process and result in an update error.
Issues with an Internet connection – You can also encounter the Windows Update continuously failing if you don’t have a stable Internet connection or there’s network congestion.
Virus and Malware – Viruses and malware infection on the computer can cause it to malfunction and be inaccessible. However, it can restart Windows Servers despite the Group Policy specifying Download and Notify to Install.

The factors listed above are liable to vary in different PCs. Regardless, we’ll take you through effective fixes to resolve the error.

How can I fix Windows Update error 0x80020010?

Before attempting any advanced troubleshooting steps, go through the following:

Perform an antivirus scan to remove malware from your device.
Power cycle your router and reconnect your network.
Restart Windows in Safe Mode and check if the error 0x80020010 persists.

If you can’t resolve the error, go ahead with the solutions below:

1. Run Windows Update troubleshooter

Press Windows + I key to open the Settings app.
Click on Update & Security.
Select Troubleshoot, then click on the Additional troubleshooters button.
Go to Windows Update, and click on Run the troubleshooter.
Wait for the Windows Update troubleshooter process to complete and restart your PC.

The troubleshooter will resolve issues affecting the Windows Updates installed. Do not hesitate to check for ways to run the Windows Update troubleshooter on Windows 11 for more detailed steps.

However, you can also dedicated repair tools to troubleshoot your OS and detect the current issues that determine this update error on your device.

2. Reset the Windows Update components

Left-click the Start button, type cmd and right-click Command Prompt. Select the Run as administrator option.
Click Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
Copy and paste the following commands and press Enter after each one: net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver
Then, input the following and press Enter after each command: ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
Finally, type the following and press Enter: net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver
Exit the Command Prompt and restart your PC to see if error 0x80020010 persists.

The above steps will fix the malfunctioning update component causing the 0x80020010 update error.

Read our article if you encounter issues running the Command Prompt as an administrator on Windows 11.

3. Configured the Schedule Time via the Registry Editor

Press the Windows + R button to open the Run dialog box, type in regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Copy the following path and paste it into the Registry Editor’s address bar and press Enter: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU
Set AuOptions to 4, then set the install time with ScheduledInstallTime.
Enable AlwaysAutoRebootAtScheduledTime and specify the delay in minutes through AlwaysAutoRebootAtScheduledTimeMinute.
Close the Registry Editor and check if the error persists.

Tweaking the above registry keys will set a timer to warn a signed-in user that a restart is going to occur. Also, it will give the update enough time to install.

If you have any issues regarding the registry keys, check how to fix a corrupt registry on Windows 11.

4. Perform an SFC scan

Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt and click on Run as administrator.
Click Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
Type the following and press Enter: sfc /scannow
Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Performing an SFC scan will repair corrupted system files affecting the Schedule Update installation process. You can read about how to fix SFC scannow not working on your Windows device.

In addition, we recommend you read about what to do if Windows Update is slow on PCs. Also, do not hesitate to check how to fix Windows Update error 0x8007045b on Windows 11.

For more questions or suggestions on this guide, kindly drop them in the comments section.

How to Use Gemoo Recorder to Create Meaningful Content

Posted on April 13, 2023October 4, 2023 by Srishti Sisodia

Video content is the most powerful and effective way to communicate ideas while engaging with audiences. Whether you are a marketer, content producer, or educator, you need a good screen recording tool to create an impact.

One such screen recorder tool is Gemoo Recorder, which can help you easily create high-quality videos. This guide will discuss how to use this recording tool to create impactful videos that resonate with your viewers.

How can Gemoo Recorder help you create engaging content?

Gemoo Recorder is an intuitive recording tool that helps you create meaningful content by allowing you to focus on your messages and engage your viewers. You can either download the desktop application or log in to the web version and start recording.

You can record a video, upload them, or embed a video from YouTube to get started. The tool is available for both Windows and Mac. This screen recording tool allows you to focus on what’s important by enabling you to show the capture area. You can add annotations, animated GIFs, and highlight text to make the content more interactive.

Once you are done recording the video, it gets uploaded to the cloud. You can share it using the Share button to share it with your audience or teammates. You can also limit the activities on video by managing the rights and setting a password before sharing the video.

The feature that makes Gemoo Recorder differ from other screen recording tools is that it has a web platform that allows users to organize the recordings in view of Mind Map, Slide, or Calendar. You can also share them using a single link or embed them on your web page.

Here are some ways in which this video recorder can help you:

Record several screens simultaneously – It is a versatile tool that gives you options to record your screen, webcam, or both at the same time. So, you can create product demos, tutorials, explainer videos, etc.
Has an inbuilt editor – You can refine your videos by adding text, images, animations, annotations, and more. You can also trim, cut or merge your recording using the tool.
Allows customization – It will enable you to set the video’s resolution, frame rate, and audio quality. You can also choose various filters, virtual backgrounds, and more.
Makes sharing videos easy – All the videos are stored on the cloud, and you can share them with your teammates or students using a link. You can also manage the sharing access with ease.

Now that you know how Gemoo Recorder can help you, let’s see how it works!

How do I use Gemoo Recorder to record videos?

1. Download the tool and configure recording settings

Go to the Gemoo Recorder website. Click on Record Now to download the tool.
Once downloaded, double-click on the installer file to run the setup file. On the Setup wizard, click Install.
Once installed, it will ask you to sign up.
Now it will present you with options; Screen + Camera, Camera only, Screen only, and Audio only.
Click More Settings, and select the camera, microphone, screen area, and resolution before initiating the recording.
Locate and click three dots from the top right corner and click Preferences. You will get four options:
- Automatically Disappearing – Enable/disable annotations to disappear after the retention period function
- Retention Period – Choose the reserved display time of the annotations
- Recording Countdown – Turn on/off the recording countdown when you begin to record.
- Auto-Hide Toolbar – Enable/disable the auto-hide toolbar.

2. Record a video

Once you have customized the settings, select the screen and click Start Recording.
If you have selected the Camera to record, you will get a circle in which you can see yourself. Also, you would get some options, including Small camera, Default camera, Full screen, Camera avatar, Hidden camera, and Cam Effects (Virtual Background, Portrait Filters, Avatar Frame).
You get the Stop, Pause, Restart, or Delete options with the sidebar present.
You also click the Add Annotation button to get options Brush, Text, Shape, Numbers, Stylus, and Stickers.
Once the recording is complete, click the red Stop button or click Finish Recording.
It will then be uploaded; a page will open in your browser.

3. Edit & Share the video

Once the video is uploaded, hover over it to get options to edit it. The available options are:
- Trim allows you to trim the video length by dragging handles
- Description option enables you to add text related to the video
- Thumbnail option allows you to add a thumbnail to your video for better presentation.
- Text option lets you add text throughout the video
- Call-to-action gives you the option to add a call-to-action button and link
Once done, click Save Changes.
Click the Share button to share the video with anyone you like by link or entering the receiver’s email address.
You can also download the video to keep it locally on your device. To do so, you need to play the content and click the downward arrow located at the bottom right corner.

This is how you can create, upload, download, and share your video content using Gemoo Recorder.

Gemoo Recorder

Record on-screen activities, your face, and your voice simultaneously to create engaging videos.

Free trial Visit Website

What are the best features of Gemoo Recorder?

This intuitive tool can help you record, edit and customize your videos per your needs. Here are some of the critical features of this recording tool:

Audio Recording – Gemoo Recorder allows you to capture audio from your microphone or system audio to add voiceovers or music to your videos.
Customizable recording settings – You can customize recording settings, including frame rate, audio quality, and recording area.
Multiple output formats – It saves recordings in several formats, including MP4, AVI, and more.
Cloud storage – The software comes with a cloud platform, making it easy to save, organize, download, and share your recordings to get feedback on the recorded videos.
Built-in editor – A built-in editor enables you to refine your recordings, add annotations, and trim your videos.

Gemoo Recorder is a versatile and robust recording tool that can help you create informative content. Gemoo Screen Recorder can help you elevate your content quality and make it more meaningful to your audience.

While using the Gemoo Recorder tool, we found it responsive, easy to use, and customizable. The complete process was seamless; we were able to record a video without issues.

We hope the information provided helped you record crisp and high-quality videos.

Have you tried Gemoo Recorder yet? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments section below.

The Sign-in Method You’re Trying to Use Isn’t Allowed [Fix]

Posted on April 13, 2023February 19, 2024 by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Windows PC has different sign-in options with varying levels of security. However, some users are complaining of the sign-in method you’re trying to use isn’t allowed error message when trying to access their PC.

While different factors can cause this error, it is not the most difficult to fix, as shown in this guide.

What is sign in method not allowed?

The sign-in method you’re trying to use isn’t allowed message usually denotes that a specific user has been prevented from signing in locally. Below are some of the causes of this issue:

Wrong Group Policy setting: The most prominent cause of the Sign-in method you are trying to use isn’t allowed error on the Windows Server 2016, and for a domain user, is wrong Group Policy settings. The solution is to make some changes to your Group Policy Editor.
Outdated PC: Another potential cause of this error is an outdated operating system. You can fix this by updating your PC.
Presence of malware: At times, this problem can also occur due to the activities of viruses on your PC. Running a deep scan with Microsoft Defender or other third-party antivirus software should do the trick here.

What are the sign-in methods supported by Windows 10?

Windows 10, like Windows 11, supports different sign-in options. However, the available options can be limited by PC accessories.

Hence, you need to go to your account settings to know the sign-in methods available.

How do I fix the sign-in method not allowed error message?

Below are some preliminary troubleshooting steps to perform before delving into the detailed solutions in this section:

Use an admin account.
Sign in to another local account.

If this does not work, you can now proceed to the solutions below:

1. Change local Group Policy setting

1.1. Enable Allow log on locally

Press the Windows key + R, type gpedit.msc, and click the OK button.
Follow the path below in the left pane: Computer Configuration > Windows Settings> Security Settings > Local Policies > User Rights Assignment
Now, double-click Allow log on locally.
Next, click the Add User or Group button.
Type the user account name you want to add and click the OK button.
Finally, click the OK button on the Allow log on locally properties page.

If you are facing the sign-in method you’re trying to use is not allowed, please get in touch with your network administrator for more info issue on Windows 10, it might be because your account is not allowed to log in locally.

The solution to this is to make the changes shown above. After doing that, proceed to the second half of the solution below to make sure:

1.2. Remove the user on Deny log on locally

Repeat steps 1 and 2 in the solution above.
Double-click Deny log on locally.
Now, check to make sure the entries there are empty and click OK.
Next, press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
Finally, type the command below and hit Enter: gpupdate /force

After doing this, the sign-in method not allowed error message should be eliminated.

2. Update your PC

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Update & Security.
Click the Check for updates button.
Now, install all available updates and restart your PC.

If you are getting the sign-in method not allowed error on Windows 10 or 11, it might be because the device is outdated. You can fix this by updating your operating system.

3. Perform a malware scan

Press the Windows key, type virus, and select Virus & threat protection.
Now, click Scan options.
Finally, select your preferred scan option and click the Scan now button.

Sometimes, the sign-in method you’re trying to use isn’t allowed error might be a false alarm by activities of malware on your PC. You need to perform a full deep virus scan to solve the problem.

To perform an even deeper scan, we recommend using a top-notch antivirus in ESET NOD32. This excellent tool will scan for and eliminate even the most hidden virus on your PC.

4. Reset your PC

Press the Windows key + I and select Update & Security.
Choose Recovery in the left pane and click Get Started under Reset this PC.
Finally, choose whether to keep or remove your files and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

If everything you tried fails, you have no option but to reset your PC. This will clear up the glitches that might be causing the problem.

With this, we can conclude this guide on the sign-in method you’re trying to use isn’t allowed issue. Hopefully, you can solve the problem before reaching the last solution on our list.

Similarly, if you can’t log into Windows 10 at all, check our detailed guide to solve the problem quickly. We also have a guide on We can’t sign you in with this credential error, so don’t miss it.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you fix this issue in the comments below.

Xbox Free Play Days April 13-16: Payday 2, ESO and more

Posted on April 13, 2023 by Robert Collins

In this article

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Another week of Xbox Free Play Days starts today with three more games for subscribers of Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. These games will be available from Thursday through Sunday, April 16. And you’ll be pleased to know that its another solid, not to mention eclectic, lineup for this week. Have a look below for the lineup.

Payday 2

PAYDAY is an action-packed, four-player co-op shooter where you rob banks and get paid. Up to four friends co-operate on the hits and as the crew progresses the jobs become bigger, better and more rewarding. Along with earning more money and becoming a legendary criminal Crime does pay – use your funds to customize your character with new skillsets that change the way you play and kit them out with their own guns and gear.

The Elder Scrolls Online

Join over 21 million players in the award-winning online multiplayer RPG and experience limitless adventure in a persistent Elder Scrolls world. Battle, craft, steal, or explore, and combine different types of equipment and abilities to create your own style of play. No game subscription required.

Them’s Fightin’ Herds

Them’s Fightin’ Herds is a 2D fighting game featuring a cast of adorable animals designed by acclaimed cartoon producer Lauren Faust. Beneath the cute and cuddly surface, a serious fighter awaits!

Wrap up

So which of these games will you be taking for a spin this weekend? Granted, two of them are already available on Game Pass. And the other, Them’s Fightin’ Herds, is now purchasable at half off. If you would like to learn more, head on over to the Xbox Free Play Days FAQ page.

Featured image via Vooks.net.

Microsoft brings major improvements to the new Bing across Swiftkey, Microsoft Start, and Skype

Posted on April 13, 2023 by Radu Tyrsina

In this article

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The new Bing has become popular across the globe since its debut, with millions of users signing up and joining the waitlist to access it. And while it’s still in preview, Microsoft continues to approve tons of requests allowing more people to have a go at it.

Back in March, the tech giant announced that Bing had surpassed 100 million daily active users and attributed that the launch of the new Bing played a significant role in helping it achieve this feat. Since then, Microsoft has integrated AI capabilities across most of its products and services to enhance the user experience.

Today, the company has announced new ways through which users can access and interact with the new Bing as well as new updates to existing app integrations such as Bing, Skype, Microsoft Start, Microsoft Edge Mobile apps, and Swiftkey. Here’s everything you need to know:

Swiftkey

First up, is Microsoft’s Swiftkey which already ships with AI-powered predictive text technology to make texting much easier for users, but this time Microsoft is taking things a notch higher. The company has announced the availability of a new update for the app that ships with new AI capabilities.

Microsoft has integrated Bing into Swiftkey in three major ways, that is, Search, Chat, and Tone. Once you download and install the update to your device, the Bing icon will pop up above the keyboard. From this point, you’ll be able to select how you want to interact with it.

The Chat functionality is in place to help make things easier for the user, whether you are looking up new schools for your kids to attend in a new area after a big move, a nice restaurant within the area, and so on.

As for the Tone feature, you can use it to communicate efficiently and effectively as it lets you customize your text to align with any situation and tone you’d like. This way you get to save a lot of time in case you’re in a slump and unable to send real-time responses.

Additionally, with Bing making its way to Swiftkey, users don’t need to transition between multiple apps when they need to search for something from the web. This functionality is now available within the keyboard thus saving you time and helping you remain focused.

According to Microsoft:

These new features in SwiftKey are accessible in all markets where the new Bing is available; anyone can use Search now, while accessing Tone and Chat requires that you sign into your Microsoft Account that has been approved to access the new Bing preview.

Bing App

Moving on to the translator functionality in the mobile Bing app it now features both masculine and feminine translations to promote gender equality while making translations from English to Spanish, French, or Italian.

Skype

Microsoft has also announced that it’s expanding access for the new Bing in Skype group chats. And while the new Bing has been available to Skype users, this new capability will allow users in Skype group chat to access and interact with the new Bing despite them not being part of the preview.

The company has highlighted only one person in the group needs access. However, you’ll need to add the new Bing to the group chat first by searching for Bing in Skype in your Skype contacts and then adding it to the group.

Microsoft Start

And finally, the new Bing has made its way to the Microsoft Start app. Through the app, users will receive relevant information that resonates with them in one convenient location. This includes a “personalized news feed, including premium content from hundreds of global publishers, keeps you informed and entertained, and the sports scores, weather forecasts, stock prices, shopping deals.”

Let us know which integration you’re looking to make the most out of in the comments below.

Fix DirectDraw Error While Playing Legacy Games

Posted on April 13, 2023September 26, 2025 by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

DirectDraw is a crucial part of DirectX that is used by Windows PC when performing graphics-intensive activities. Unfortunately, some users now report a DirectDraw error while playing legacy games on their PCs.

This issue is also affecting artists using high-level software. Fortunately, it is not the most difficult issue to fix and only requires the right information.

What is a DirectDraw error on Windows 10?

The DirectDraw error occurs when the crucial component of DirectX encounters an issue. Below are some of the causes of this error:

Faulty video card driver: If you are facing the DirectDraw error on games like Age of Empires and Yume 2kki, it might be because of an outdated video card driver. What you need to do is to update your driver to the latest version.
Outdated version of DirectX: Sometimes, this problem might be due to an outdated or incompatible version of DirectX. To fix this issue with DirectDraw, you need to download and install the latest Windows update to get the latest DirectX version.

How do I fix the DirectDraw error?

1. Enable DirectDraw and Direct3D

Press the Windows key + R, type dxdiag, and click OK.
Click the No button when prompted to check if you want to check if your driver is signed.
Now, click the Display tab at the top.
Check if DirectDraw Acceleration and Direct3D Acceleration are enabled.
Next, press the Windows key, type turn windows, and select Turn Windows features on or off.
Check the Legacy Components box and press the + sign next to it to expand it.
Finally, check the box next to Direct3D and click the OK button.

The first thing to the if you are encountering the DirectDraw DDERR_UNSUPPORTED error, is to enable DirectDraw and Direct3D. This will eliminate the error message after restarting your PC.

2. Change screen resolution for legacy games

Right-click the game or app causing the error and select Properties.
Now, click the Compatibility tab at the top.
Check the box for Run in 640 x 480 screen resolution box and click OK.

Another potential cause of the DirectDraw error on Windows 10 and 11 is an unreasonably high screen resolution. To fix this, you have to limit the screen resolution your legacy game is using.

3. Update video card driver

Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
Double-click the Display adapters option to expand it and right-click the device there.
Now, select Update driver.
Finally, click Search automatically for drivers and install any available updates.

Sometimes, the DirectDraw error might be due to issues with your graphics drivers. Hence, you should update them too.

If the Windows updater can not find the latest drivers for you, you can go to the manufacturer’s website to download and install them.

Alternatively, you can save yourself from unnecessary stress using an automatic driver updater like Outbyte Driver Updater. This top-notch tool scans your PC for outdated, faulty, and missing drivers and restores them to top shape.

With this, you overcome the risk of installing the wrong driver manually, which can lead to big problems.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Have a go with this tailored software to update any drivers smoothly.

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4. Check if you are using the latest DirectX

Press the Windows key + R, type dxdiag, and click OK.
Click No when prompted.
Now, click the System tab at the top and check the DirectX version.
If you are using the old version, you need to install all available updates for your PC, as there is no standalone program for updating DirectX.

If you still can’t get past the DirectDraw error, it might be because you are running an outdated version of DirectX. The solution is to check for Windows updates and install them to get the latest version.

With this, we can conclude this guide on how to fix the DirectDraw error. All you have to do now is to follow the instructions carefully, and things should be back to normal.

If you can’t install DirectX on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to force the installation through.

Feel to let us know the solution that helped you fix this issue in the comments below.

Microsoft is experimenting with a Windows 11 handheld gaming mode

Posted on April 13, 2023 by Robert Collins

Microsoft, or at least some “hackers” within Microsoft, has been considering developing a gaming handheld mode version of its Windows 11 UI for devices like the Steam Deck. A video posted on Twitter on Wednesday by user @_h0x0d_ seems to be from a Microsoft Hackathon project from September 2022.

The video explains a Windows Handheld Mode that would optimize Windows 11 for such devices. Windows 11 is already available on Steam Deck in place of the Steam OS, but the experience is poorly optimized for handheld devices in its current state. This Windows Handheld Mode project would aim to fix that. It should be noted that the project may or may not see the light of day.

pic.twitter.com/9C61zrSQ3v

— WalkingCat (@_h0x0d_) April 13, 2023

Instead of rolling out its own Xbox gaming handheld device, as some have long been calling for, it seems Microsoft is content to spread its Xbox brand on existing hardware like the Steam Deck and Logitech Gaming Handheld. Not to mention Microsoft’s plans to introduce an Xbox mobile games store and platform as early as next year.

Via Tom’s Hardware.

Featured image via VideoCardz.com.

7-Zip.dll Won’t Delete? 3 Ways to Get Rid of It

Posted on April 13, 2023April 2, 2024 by Claudiu Andone

7-Zip is a nifty archiving tool, but many of our readers realized that after uninstalling the app, they are left with a 7-Zip.dll file that won’t delete. The DLL file is located in the C:\Program Files\7-Zip folder, and although you uninstall the tool, when you try to delete it, you receive the message that it’s still in use.

Why is 7-Zip.dll not deleting?

It’s frustrating because when you try to delete the 7-Zip.dll, you get the message This action can’t be completed because the file is currently in use by (or open in) File Explorer. So, here is why you can’t delete 7-Zip.dll:

File Explorer is still using it – If you didn’t close File Explorer before uninstalling 7-Zip, the Windows app was still using it, and that’s why it refuses deletion.
Associated processes are using it – Even if you closed File Explorer, its processes might work in the background preventing you from deleting the 7-Zip.dll file.

Now that we know the cause of this issue, let’s see how we can get rid of the 7-Zip.dll file safely.

What can I do if 7-Zip.dll won’t delete?

Before getting into more complicated troubleshooting, let’s perform a few workarounds that may fix the problem:

Restart your PC and try deleting the file again.
Boot your PC in Safe Mode and try deleting the 7-Zip.dll.
Try using a file deleter software.

If you still can’t delete the DLL file, perform the solutions below to remove the 7-Zip.dll file for good.

1. Use a DLL fixer app

If a program refuses to uninstall or has a DLL problem, it’s better to engage a DLL fixer app that has full databases of DLL files to replace the damaged or missing files. However, the third-party software can have a junk removal tool that will scrape the remnants of 7-Zip, including the stubborn DLL file.

2. End all related processes

Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager from the list.
Now, look through the processes and find the ones related to 7-Zip, then right-click on them and select End task.
Now, try to delete 7-Zip.dll again.

3. Remove 7-Zip from the Registry

Press the Windows key + R to start Run, type regedit and press Enter or click OK to start the Registry Editor.
Now, navigate to the 7-Zip app key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\7-Zip
Right-click the key and delete it from the Registry.

Usually, this issue is fixed by restarting your PC and deleting the DLL file, but we included all the options so that we make sure you get rid of this problem.

If you have other issues, you can read our guide on how to fix missing DLL files on Windows 11.

And if you didn’t upgrade to the latest OS yet, we also have a comprehensive article on fixing DLL issues on Windows 10.

For any other questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to write them in the comments section below.

Redfall to launch without a performance mode, Starfield may follow suit

Posted on April 13, 2023 by Robert Collins

It looks like Bethesda’s upcoming shooter Redfall is going to launch without a 60FPS option. This was announced on Wednesday on Redfall’s official Twitter account. Apparently the game will run at up to 4K resolution at 30FPS on Xbox Series X; on Series S it will run at 1440p at 30FPS.

Redfall is launching on Xbox consoles with Quality mode only:
Xbox Series X: 4K 30 FPS
Xbox Series S: 1440p 30 FPS
60 FPS Performance mode will be added via game update at a later date. pic.twitter.com/NLaGsMbwdW

— Redfall (@playRedfall) April 12, 2023

No doubt many will be disappointed to hear this. However, the team states in the post that a 60FPS performance mode will be added in a future update.

It wouldn’t be too surprising if other upcoming Bethesda games like Starfield also launch with 30FPS only. Bethesda Game Studios director Todd Howard said late last year that

We don’t have a problem with 30 frames per second as long as it looks really good and the simulation is running and all that stuff.”

Analysis of Starfield game trailer footage has indicated that the game was running 30FPS at 4K. Other recent AAA games that launched at 30FPS mode only include A Plague Tale: Requiem and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.

https://t.co/VdHWYJJXhr pic.twitter.com/9CDTgQxEOD

— Tom Henderson (@_Tom_Henderson_) April 12, 2023

Nonetheless, many gamers might left feeling a bit galled, seeing as how a “60FPS standard” was often touted during the leadup to the release of the current-gen consoles, with 120 FPS supposedly being not uncommon for the next generation of games. Thus far, these lofty ambitions have mostly yet to materialize.

Redfall releases on May 2 for Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC. It will be available on Game Pass day one.

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Fix: 0x87d00324 SCCM Application Install Error

Posted on April 13, 2023October 4, 2023 by Srishti Sisodia

If you have encountered the 0x87d00324 SCCM application install error, this guide can help! This error indicates that the application is installed but couldn’t be detected by the configuration manager. We will cover all the available methods to fix the issue right after discussing the causes of the occurrence.

What causes the 0x87d00324 SCCM application install error?

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

Invalid detection method – If the detection method used to detect the app’s installation on SCCM is not correct, you might see this error. To avoid this, use the correct detection method for the app.
Network connectivity issues – If there are issues with the network connection, including network latency, between the client & the SCCM server, the installation may not be detected.
Invalid command-line parameters – If the installation command-line parameters are incorrect, the installation will not be detected. It could be due to a mistake during the deployment configuration.

Now that you know the potential causes of the error, let us check out the available fixes.

How do I fix the 0x87d00324 SCCM application install error?

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

While installing an app, look closely at the product code to ensure no discrepancies.
Check if the account or the machine you are using has network access.
The account must have access to the app.

If none of the above worked for you, you must move to the advanced fixes.

1. Verify the detection method

Launch the Configuration Manager.
Navigate to this path: Software Library\Overview\Application Management\Applications
Choose an app and click Deployment Types.
Now right-click the app and select Properties.
Go to the Detection Method tab from the field, select a detection method, and click Edit Clause.
In the Detection Rule window, for Setting Type, type Windows Installer.
Check if the product code mentioned is the same as in the registry entry on the client machine.
To do that, press Windows + R to open the Run window.
Type regedit and hit Enter to open Registry Editor.
Now navigate to either of these paths; the former is for 32-bit, and the latter is for 64-bit: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\
Locate the list of keys enclosed in curly brackets and cross-check the value for the program you are trying to install or detect.
If it matches the one mentioned as the Product code in the Detection rule, proceed to the next step.
If it doesn’t, click Browse to point on your MSI file.

If the Product code matches, but you still encounter this error, you need to refresh the deployment. For that, move to the next method.

2. Edit the Configuration Managemer Properties

Open Configuration Management Properties in Control Panel on the client computer.
Go to the Actions tab, select Machine Policy Request and Evaluation Cycle, and click Run Now.
Click OK.
Once the new policy is received, the deployment will work, and you can install the app without issues.

We recommend you check out SCCM Application Error 0x87d00607 solutions as well, as it is a similar problem.

So, these are methods you can use to fix the 0x87d00324 SCCM application install error on your Windows server. The right detection method and correct values are important to avoid this error.

Try these methods and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.

Surface Pro 9 Review: Perfecting a 10-year-old formula

Posted on April 12, 2023 by Kareem Anderson

In this article

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Starting at $999.99

Microsoft’s Surface Pro 9 could be easily mistaken for the Pro 8 when the company’s flagship computer adopted a refined aesthetic with the Surface Pro X back in 2019. Since 2019, Microsoft has made a few tweaks to the Surface Pro line, such as omitting the audio jack, updating the panels refresh rate, adding USB-C ports, and adding upgradable memory options, but the biggest change came when the company consolidated its branding and marketing efforts last year.

Instead of forging forward with both a separate ARM-based Pro X line and an Intel-powered Pro line, the company combined the two lines under a unified design and name creating the Surface Pro 9. Customers can purchase either an Intel or ARM based version of the Surface Pro 9, and both come with different feature sets and their own set of compromises.

OnMSFT got its hands on the Intel based model for this review.

Specs
	Surface Pro 8	Surface Pro 9
Processor	Quad-core 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i5-1135G7 Processor Quad-core 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-1185G7 Processor i5 and i7 options with storage 256GB and above built on the Intel® Evo™ platform	Surface Pro 9: 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5-1235U processor 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-1255U processor Options with storage 256 GB and above built on the Intel® Evo™ platformSurface Pro 9 with 5G: Microsoft SQ® 3 processor Neural Processing Unit (NPU)
Operating System	Windows 10 Home in S mode² Microsoft 365 Family 30-day trial	Windows 11 Home Preloaded Microsoft 365 Apps5 Microsoft 365 Family 1- month trial6 Preloaded Xbox App Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 1-month trial7
Display	Screen: 13” PixelSense™ Flow Display Resolution: 2880 x 1920 (267 PPI) Up to 120Hz refresh rate (60Hz default) Aspect ratio: 3:2 Adaptive Color Touch: 10-point multi-touch GPU Ink Acceleration Dolby Vision® support3	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Screen: 13” PixelSense™ Flow Display Resolution: 2880 X 1920 (267 PPI) Color profile: sRGB and Vivid Refresh rate up to 120Hz (Dynamic refresh rate supported) Aspect ratio: 3:2 Contrast ratio: 1200:1 Adaptive Color Auto Color Management supported Touch: 10-point multi-touch Dolby Vision IQ™ support17 Gorilla® Glass 5Surface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Screen: 13” PixelSense™ Flow Display Resolution: 2880 X 1920 (267 PPI) Color profile: sRGB and Vivid Dynamic refresh rate up to 120Hz Aspect ratio: 3:2 Contrast ratio: 1200:1 Adaptive Color Touch: 10-point multi-touch Gorilla® Glass 5
Storage	Removable solid-state drive (SSD) options: 128GB or 256GB 512GB or 1TB	Surface Pro 9: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB (LPDDR5 RAM) Surface Pro 9 with 5G: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4x RAM Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Removable7 drive (SSD) options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB Surface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Removable7 drive (SSD) options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Graphics	Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics (i5, i7)	Surface Pro 9: Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics Surface Pro 9 with 5G: Microsoft SQ® 3 Adreno™ 8CX Gen 3
Camera, Video & Audio	Windows Hello face authentication camera (front-facing) 5.0MP front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video 10.0MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p HD and 4k video Dual far-field Studio Mics 2W stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos®	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Windows Hello face authentication camera (front-facing) Front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video 10.0MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p HD and 4k videoSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Windows Hello face authentication camera (front-facing) Front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video 10.0 MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p HD and 4k video Windows Studio Effects with Eye Contact, Portrait Background Blur and Automatic Framing Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Windows Hello face authentication camera (front-facing) Front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video 10.0MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p HD and 4k videoSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Windows Hello face authentication camera (front-facing) Front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video 10.0 MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p HD and 4k video Windows Studio Effects with Eye Contact, Portrait Background Blur and Automatic Framing
Memory	8GB, 16GB, 32GB (LPDDR4x RAM)	Surface Pro 9: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB (LPDDR5 RAM) Surface Pro 9 with 5G: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4x RAM Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Removable7 drive (SSD) options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB Surface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Removable7 drive (SSD) options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Dimensions	11.3 in x 8.2 in x 0.37 in (287mm x 208mm x 9.3mm)	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Length: 11.3”(287 mm) Width: 8.2” (209 mm) Height: 0.37” (9.3 mm) Surface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Length: 11.3” (287 mm) Width: 8.2” (209 mm) Height: 0.37” (9.3 mm)
Security	Firmware TPM chip for enterprise-grade security and BitLocker support Enterprise-grade protection with Windows Hello face sign-in	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Firmware TPM 2.0 is a security processor that is designed to give you peace of mind Windows Hello face sign-inSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Enhanced security with Microsoft Pluton Windows Hello face sign-in
Weight	891 g (1.96lb)	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Weight1: 1.94 lb (879 g) Surface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Weight1: 1.95 lb (883 g) (mmWave)
Color	Casing: Signature anodized aluminum Colors: Graphite, Platinum4	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Casing: Aluminum Colors:13 Sapphire, Forest, Platinum, GraphiteSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Casing: Aluminum Colors:13 Platinum
Ports/Slots	2 x USB-C® with USB 4.0/Thunderbolt™ 4 3.5mm headphone jack 1 x Surface Connect port Surface Type Cover port Compatible with Surface Dial off-screen interaction*	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): 2 x USB-C® with USB 4.0/ Thunderbolt™ 4 1 x Surface Connect port 1 x Surface Type Cover portSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): 2 x USB-C® 3.2 1 x Surface Connect port Surface Keyboard port 1 x nano SIM
Battery	Battery Capacity Nominal (WH) 51.5Wh Battery Capacity Min (WH) 50.2Wh Up to 16 hours of typical device usage	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Up to 15.5 hours of typical device usage Surface Pro 9 (SQ®3/5G): Up to 19 hours of typical device usage Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Battery Capacity Nominal (WH) 47.7 Wh Battery Capacity Min (WH) 46.5 WhSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Battery Capacity Nominal (WH) 47.7 Wh Battery Capacity Min (WH) 46.5Wh
What’s in the box	Surface Pro 8 Power Supply Quick Start Guide Safety and warranty documents	Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi): Surface Pro 9 (Intel/Wifi) Power supply Quick Start Guide Safety and warranty documentsSurface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G): Surface Pro 9 (SQ® 3/5G) Power supply Quick Start Guide Safety and warranty documents SIM Card access tool

Look and Feel

The Surface Pro 9 looks eerily similar to the Surface Pro 8. as it maintains the recently upgraded rounded body type from the previous generation. The screen tech in the Pro 9 is roughly equivelent to the Pro which covers the same color gamut, level of power efficiency and resolution as last year’s model. While Microsoft may have played it conservative with the Surface Pro 9’s display panel for this model to balance resolution versus power consumption, there are a couple of tweaks the company could have made to improve upon the screen that would have added convenience for the customer while maintaining its battery life such as oleophobic coating and the use of anti-glare screen layer.

Once again, the Surace Pro 9 keeps a relatively glossy panel for its 13-inch screen, which becomes a detriment for customers who use their devices outside of the soft luminescent glow of office lights. Presumably, Microsoft keeps the glossy panel as a staple to help highlight its LCD’s “PixelSense Flow”

Whatever the case, the Surface Pro 9’s screen is every bit as remarkable as the Pro 8’s as it maintains deep blacks very well, contrasting HRD color from an LCD-power display. I tend to put matte screen protectors on my Pro devices for better pen grip when writing and as a thin layer of protection, and even with that applied, the display on the Pro 9 remains stunning.

Microsoft took some liberties with the Pro 9 from the Pro is with the rearranging of buttons on the device. The Pro 9 now has its power and volume buttons sitting flushed atop of the device in the same area as opposed to Pro 8 which splits them down both sides of the device. The new placement of the buttons reduces the likelyhood of accidental power and volume presses when holding the PC in horizontal tablet mode.

In addition, the 2 USB-C Thunderbolt ports are now aligned to the right of the device instead of the left which could take some getting used to depending on how a customer’s home or work docking setup is arranged. As Apple brings back the SD card reader for its MacBook lineup, Microsoft moves away from having any variation of the port on its Surface Pro devices. Fortunately, most dongles and docking stations are maintaining the port and single cord solution via the Thunderbolt ports will still get the job done.

Few reviewers still talk about the hinges on the Surface Pro’s as they have been a well-earned staple on the device and the Surface Pro 9 maintains that standard. The Pro 9’s rigidity when flexed at any position is modest but notable convenience, especially when attempting some close-knee lap work.

The last few notable things to mention about the Surface Pro 9 is the weight of the device, which feels ever-so lighter than last year’s model. The weight change may only become perceptible when holding the device for more than a couple of minutes at a time.

The keyboard and trackpad are the same as last year’s models with the Slim Pen 2 support maintaining its over 4K pressure sensitivity mark. Ideally, Microsoft will work out a solution that will bring over its haptic technology to create a single solid attachment which could offer a much larger surface area in the future. One can hope.

The only other mentions for look and feel of the Pro 9 when compared to the Pro 8 or any other 2-in-1 maybe the color pallet options for this model that include a new Saphire blue and Forest green which helps any Surface Pro 9 owner stand out from older model owners in a crowd. Yes, there are now crowds of Surface Pro users out and about.

Performance

It should be noted that in most day-to-day usage for anyone who traffics in data processing or writing, the performance between the Surface Pro 8 and 9 is negligible, however, with that said for power users and benchmark junkies, Intel’s 12th Gen chips offer a noticeable increase in performance but at the detriment of heat and fan noise for the Surface Pro 9.

While Microsoft has yet to incorporate a dedicated GPU architecture into the slim profile of the Surface Pro 9, its partnership with Intel this year does a decent job of counter balancing that omission with raw CPU performance with the Pro 9 coming in second to the Asus ROG Flow Z13 in both single core and multi-core threaded testing. When testing it against the MacBook Air architecture, the Pro 9 beats it, but does so with less power efficiency.

Unfortunately, when the Pro 9 is unplugged, some of that CPU performance gain takes about a 5 percent hit due to the 45/30-watt ceiling in place by the device to keep it cool enough to handle in hand and on a lap, but on the upside, that 5 percent hit is still miles ahead of the Pro 8, Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, ThinkPad X12 and slightly ahead of an M2 powered MacBook Air.

Where the Surface Pro 9 takes a significant dip in direct GPU usage is where the Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 does a modest job of keeping heavily GPU reliant windows and activities stable but sinks about 70 percent of that stability when on battery power. Activities such as rendering video, 3D, graphic design or heavy photo processing can all get bogged down on the Surface Pro 9 when on battery, if the device can keep it juice long enough.

Now there are some workarounds that include using web-based clients for video editing, photo manipulation, 3D and graphic design such as Canva, Flixier, Clipchamp, Frame.io and more. Again, the Surface Pro 9’s CPU can power out video editing if users are using Adobe Premiere at 1/2 or a 1/4 of resolution, but when it comes time to render edits over 10 minutes at 1080p resolution, they should factor in a brisk walking break.

I’m not going to delve into gaming as the last 10 years have proven Microsoft isn’t interested in the Surface Pro lineup being capable of console or PC level gaming. The Pro 9 served me well when paired with xCloud gaming, and the convenience of being able to tote the slim convertible around is sorely understated in reviews. While on a cruise, I was able to wrap up Halo Infinite and Hi-Fi Rush, both in and out of my cabin.

Summary

In real world use, the less than 2lb computer is great. While reviewers cover the minutia of the Surface Pro 9, at the end of the day, it still remains the gold standard of 2-in-1’s. While there are other 2-in-1’s cropping up that offer better specs in some areas, or more appealing price differentials, the Surface Pro 9 continues to deliver one of the nicest overall convertible packages.

While the new aesthetic is a relatively young design, I would hope that Microsoft improves up some of the chassis underlying tech such as reintroducing an SD card reader, upgrading the hardware and software (Windows 11) display tech for more optimized battery consumption, adding haptic feedback to its separately sold keyboard, and overhauling the camera array in both software and hardware.

Until then, the Surface Pro 9 stands as the best refinement of the lineup since Microsoft jumped from the 10.6-inch chunky Pro and Pro 2 design to the thinner 12-inch Surface Pro 3. After a decade, Microsoft has gotten about as close as Intel will let them in actualizing their vision for a portable PC experience, the question that remains is what’s coming in the next 10 years?

AMDRSServ.exe: What Is It & How to Fix It in 7 Easy Steps

Posted on April 12, 2023October 4, 2023 by Srishti Sisodia

If you are experiencing issues with AMDRSServ.exe, such as high CPU usage or crashes, this guide can help! We will explain what AMDRSServ.exe is, followed by step-by-step solutions to fix the issues related to this software component.

What is AMDRSServ.exe?

AMDRSServ.exe is a process related to the AMD Radeon software package. It is responsible for managing the Radeon ReLive feature, which enables users to capture and stream gameplay footage. Usually, the file is located in the following folder: C:/Program Files/AMD/Cnext/Cnext

The process runs in the background of your computer and starts automatically when you install AMD Radeon software. If you are facing issues related to this process, you need to follow the series of steps to fix the problem.

How do I fix the AMDRSServ.exe system error on Windows?

1. Disable the AMD startup services

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type msconfig and press Enter to open System Configuration.
Switch to the Services tab on the System Configuration window.
Scroll through the list and uncheck services related to AMD.
Click Apply, then OK, and restart your computer to let the changes take effect.
Once the PC is back online, press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
Navigate to this path: C:/Program Files/AMD/Cnext/Cnext
Select AMDRSServ.exe and click Rename button and change the name by adding any alphabet or number to it.
Open the System Configuration window again and place the checkmark next to all AMD services.
Click Apply, and OK. Now restart your computer to save the changes.

2. Check for app updates

Right-click on the desktop to bring up the context menu and choose AMD Radeon Settings.
Go to the Updates tab and click on Check for Updates.
If an update is available, click Download and Install.
Please wait till the process is complete and check if the issue persists.

3. Rollback the AMD driver

Press Windows + R to open the Run window.
Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open Device Manager.
Go to Display adapters, expand it, right-click the AMD driver, and click Properties.
Switch to the Driver tab and click the Roll Back Driver button.
On the Driver Package rollback page, select an option and click Yes.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

If the Rollback option is greyed out for you, it means your computer has not had a previous driver installed for the AMD device. We also have a complete guide on how to roll back the AMD driver for more information.

Also, check our comprehensive guide on how to update AMD drivers on your PC with just a few steps.

4. Disable the ReLive option

Right-click on the desktop to open the context menu and select AMD Radeon Settings.
Click on the ReLive tab. Toggle the ReLive switch to Off.

5. Run an SFC scan

Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Click Yes on the UAC prompt.
Copy and paste the following command to repair system files and press Enter: sfc/scannow
The scan will take some time. Please wait till it is successfully completed, then restart your computer to save the changes.

6. Run a malware scan

Press the Windows key, type windows security, and click Open.
Go to Virus & threat protection, and click Scan options.
Select Full scan and click Scan now.
Now the security tool will run a deep scan, scouring each file on your computer to find malicious files. Once completed, it will show you the list of infected files and delete them to resolve the issue.

7. Reinstall the AMD Radeon software

Press the Windows key, type control panel, and click Open.
Select Category for View by option and click Programs.
Next, click Uninstall a program.
Locate and select AMD Radeon from the list of installed programs and click Uninstall button.
The uninstall process will be initiated, and the drivers and software components will be removed.
To download the AMD Radeon software, go to the AMD website.
Download the software and double-click the installation file to initiate the process.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

If you are facing other performance issues related to your AMD drivers, we recommend you check this guide.

So, these are the steps you need to take to fix the AMDRSServ.exe system error on Windows. Try these methods and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.

What’s the page colors feature on Edge and how does it work?

Posted on April 12, 2023April 12, 2023 by Rafly Gilang

Microsoft always continues to upgrade users’ experience while browsing on Edge. After rolling out Bing AI’s image creation tool not too long ago, Redmond officials are reportedly working on an accessibility feature called page colors.

As spotted by Windows enthusiast @Leopeva64, several select insiders on Edge’s canary channel have begun seeing a toggle option to activate page colors sitting on Edge’s Settings ➜ Accessibility.

There is a new accessibility option in Edge Canary, it's called "Page colors", unfortunately it doesn't work yet:https://t.co/eDKCIBipYU
. pic.twitter.com/ezAjxVE82E
— Leopeva64 (@Leopeva64) April 10, 2023

However, as you can see, the accessibility option isn’t quite working properly, so it may need a little longer for us to test it.

Other than that, you can also make the text larger, have the web read aloud to you, have high visibility outline, and use high contrast on Edge’s accessibility setting to ensure the best browsing experience.

So how does it work, you may ask? And will it ever be rolling out for general users who aren’t in the insider channel?

How will page colors on Edge work?

As you can see, the page colors on Edge will allow you to modify the colors you see on the browser. For example, if you’re initially reading from a website with a white background and black text, you can adjust how it’ll look on your screen. There’s a dropdown of colors you can choose between Dusk, Desert, Black, and White.

There’s also an option to apply page colors only when high-contrast themes are on. You can also apply these changes to specific, frequently-visited websites.

Speaking of Edge, we’ve previously reported that the browser is getting a new feature called Workspace. After months of waiting, the hotly-anticipated feature finally arrived on the limited public preview and several select insiders can create tab groups and organize them while opening them all at the same time.

What do you think about this page colors accessibility feature on Edge? Let us know in the comments!

How to filter profanity out of Teams

Posted on April 12, 2023October 4, 2023 by Rafly Gilang

The long wait is finally over, as Microsoft just rolled out the feature for users to filter out profanity on Teams.

As noted on the Microsoft 365 Roadmap site, the feature could ship as soon as May 2023 although no exact date has been confirmed yet. When the optional feature is out for general availability, both Windows and macOS users will be able to benefit from this toggle.

With the newly introduced toggle for turn on/off profanity filtering, user will now be able to control whether they want to continue to leverage the profanity filtering capability provided out of box, or, if they want to see every word as-is.

Same time in 2022, the tech giant rolled out the same feature to detect violations, threats, harassment, and profanity in English, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, Dutch, and Korean on Microsoft Purview, its multi-cloud unified data governance platform, built with privacy by design.

Now, in an April 2023 blog post, the feature is out for limited public preview.

That means, you’ll first need to be a member of the Teams Public Preview on Windows or macOS, at least until the feature rolls out for general availability. Once it does, we will keep you updated.

If you already are, read along to find out how you can try to filter profanity out of Teams.

How to filter profanity out of Teams

1. Open your Teams app.

2. On the upper right of your screen, go to Settings and more ➜ Settings ➜ Captions and transcripts.

3. Slide the Filter profane words in meeting captions toggle off/on.

4. In the meantime, you can also turn live captions by selecting More options ➜ Language and speech ➜ Turn on live captions.

And if it’s just one particular person using these profanities, you can always block a user on Teams as an alternative.

Speaking of Teams, Microsoft has also been closely working with a newer generation of the teleconferencing app. Collectively dubbed as Teams 2.0, at least from rumors before it hit primetime, the new Teams will load faster while consuming less energy at the same time.

What do you think about this feature? Let us know in the comments!

Netwtw10.sys Blue Screen Error: 4 Ways to Fix It

Posted on April 12, 2023September 30, 2025 by Henderson Jayden Harper

The Blue Screen of Death may appear accompanied by a Netwtw10.sys error randomly. It means an error occurred due to network-related issues and can cause the system to crash. However, we’ll discuss resolving it and getting your system working.

Also, our readers may be interested in how to fix rtf64x64.sys Blue Screen of Death error on Windows 11.

What causes the Netwtw10.sys Blue Screen error?

Some factors that may be responsible for the error are:

Faulty Network driver – The error may occur if the network device drivers running on the system are not intact. Also, defective or incompatible drivers can cause errors if they impede the Netwtw10.sys file.
Third-party programs interference – The activities of other apps running on the system can cause the error to occur. Programs such as antivirus software with Firewall features can cause the network driver to be unresponsive, resulting in the BSoD crash.
Corrupt system files – The error may occur if the system files responsible for the network process are corrupt. Files such as Netwtw08.sys, Netwtw06.sys, Netwtw10.sys running on the PC are essential for the Windows operating system. So, you can encounter this error if the system files are corrupt.

Fortunately, we have provided some solutions below to help you fix the Blue Screen error.

How can I fix the Netwtw10.sys blue screen error?

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

Restart Windows in Safe Mode and check if the error appears.
Verify that all key hardware components are fully compatible.
Try contacting Intel Customer Support for assistance.

If you can’t resolve the error, try the steps below:

1. Update your Device drivers via Windows Update

Press the Windows + I key to open the Settings app.
Click on Windows Update and select the Advanced options.
Then, click on the Optional Update button.
Click the drop-down button on the Driver Update and checkmark the list of updates available.
Select the Update and Install button and wait for the drivers to install.

Updating the network driver allows it to fix errors or bugs impeding its performance. You can read about what to do if Windows Update is not loading on Windows 11.

There is also a better alternative to update any drivers from your PC and that is a tailored software like Outbyte Driver Updater. It will scan your system and automatically update old drivers with their latest version.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

2. Rollback recent driver updates

Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, and type devmgmt.msc, then press Enter to open the Device Manager.
Open the Network adapters entry, right-click on the driver, and select Properties from the drop-down menu.
Go to the Driver tab, select the Roll Back Driver option, and click OK.
Restart your PC and check if the Netwtw10.sys error persists.

Rolling back the recent network device update will remove faulty updates causing the error and resolve compatibility issues.

Alternatively, you can check for how to uninstall updates on Windows 11 for more detailed steps.

3. Run the SFC and DISM to repair damaged system files

Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt, then click Run as administrator.
Click Yes on the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
Input this command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
Type the following commands and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your PC and check if the error appears.

Running SFC and DISM scans will detect and repair corrupt system files causing the Netwtw10.sys BSoD error. Read about ways to fix the run as administrator option if it’s not working on Windows PC.

4. Run System Restore

Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type control, then press Enter.
Type recovery in the search bar and select Recovery.
Then click Open System Restore.
Click Next in the Restore system files and Settings window.
Choose the restore point you want to restore from and click Next.
Then, click on Finish after the process.

A System Restore will remove recent activities, recovering the system to the previous point.

You can reach our guide on how to fix Restore Point if it’s not working on your PC.

Alternatively, you can check the causes of BSOD errors. Also, do not hesitate to read about the Brusbsib.sys incompatible driver error on Windows PCs.

If there are further questions or suggestions on other fixes that worked for you, kindly drop them in the comment section.

Bing Fix: Sorry, Network Settings Prevent Access to Feature

Posted on April 12, 2023September 26, 2025 by Taiba Hasan

Several of our readers have been getting the Sorry, looks like your network settings are preventing access to this feature error while trying to access the Bing AI chatbot. This error indicates network-related issues that are restricting you from conversing with the chatbot.

Why am I getting the network settings prevent access to the feature error?

After conducting our extensive research, we are listing the potential causes of this network error below:

Incompatible extensions – Sometimes the extensions installed on your browser, negatively affect the performance leading to various errors and issues.
Slow internet – Poor internet connection can be another reason why you are facing the network settings prevent access to this feature in Bing AI.
Geographical restrictions – Certain chatbot features are region-centric and may not be available in your location, giving you the network settings prevent access to the feature error.
Server issues – Since Bing AI is extremely popular, it can be bombarded with tons of requests at a time and may crash.
Corrupt browser cache or cookies – Corrupt cache and browser cookies are known to trigger several errors and restrict several websites, including Bing AI from operating.

Now that you know about the potential causes of this issue, let’s explore the possible fixes to resolve the network issue in New Bing AI.

How do I fix error network settings prevent access to this feature?

Before you move on to the software-related fixes, implement the tricks recommended here:

Restart your router and then perform the intended action.
Switch to a different network if the connection is unstable. You can switch to a wireless network or set up Wi-Fi hotspot to access Bing AI.
Enable VPN to access the geographically restricted feature, and if you are already using one, we will recommend you disable the VPN for time being.
As BIng AI is getting exceptionally high demand, you can wait for a few hours and try accessing the feature once again.

If none of these methods could help you resolve the problem, try the ones listed next.

1. Clear browsing history and cached data

Launch the Microsoft Edge browser on your computer and click the Menu icon (three dots) on the top right.
Select the Settings option from the drop-down menu.
From the left sidebar, navigate to the Cookies and site permissions.
Choose the Manage and delete cookies and site data option from the right side.
Click the See all cookies and site data option.
Press the Remove All button on the top.
Now choose the Privacy, search, and services options from the left sidebar.
Scroll down and press the Choose what to clear button next to Clear Browsing Data Now option.
In the next window that pops up, select all the categories you wish to delete and press the Clear Now button.

There is another method to avoid the manual steps above and that is to automatically clean up browsing data with a reliable tool like CCleaner.

That’s it! All the browser cookies and browsing history will now be deleted for good. And hopefully, the looks like your network settings are preventing access to this feature error message will no longer bother you.

2. Disable the metered connection

Use the Windows + I shortcut to bring up the Settings app.
Select Network & internet from the left navigation panel and choose Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on the network type you are currently using.
Next, select Wi-Fi properties.
Look for the Metered connection option and turn the toggle next to it in the Off position.

When the network connection is metered, Windows imposes a data limit over it. As a result, certain features are not available as a measure to conserve data and reduce data usage. Disabling metered connection ensures that you can utilize the internet with maximum available bandwidth.

3. Disable or uninstall extensions

Launch the Edge browser, click the Menu icon (three dots) located in the top right corner, and choose Extensions from the drop-down menu.
Choose Manage extensions from the prompt window.
In the extension tab, look for the extension you wish to remove and toggle off the switch next to it.
To uninstall the extension completely, press the Remove button present below the extension description.
Click the Remove button on the confirmation popup to confirm the action.

Several of our readers have reported that an extension named Header Editor is causing issues when using Bing AI. You can disable it and other similar extensions temporarily to see if the issue is resolved. If it does the trick, you can consider uninstalling them completely.

4. Reset the network settings

Use the Windows + I keyboard shortcut to launch the Settings window.
Choose Network & internet from the left pane, followed by Advanced network settings from the right section.
Click the Network reset option listed under the More settings section.
Press the Reset now button to reset the network settings. Select Yes on the confirmation pop-up if it appears, and then restart your Windows PC.

Misconfigured network settings can also be the reason why you are unable to access certain features in the Bing AI chatbot. You can reset the network configuration of Windows to the initial state and then try using Bing once again.

5. Change the DNS settings

Use the Windows + I shortcut key to launch the Settings app.
Select Network & Internet from the left sidebar, and depending on the current network you are connected to, choose Wi-Fi or Ethernet from the right section.
Scroll down and select Hardware properties.
Look for the DNS server assignment option and click the Edit button next to it.
Expand the drop-down on the top and choose Manual instead of Automatic (DHCP) from the Edit DNS settings popup.
Next, enable the toggle for either IPv4 or IPv6, based on the IP connection type.
Now provide the primary DNS server address in the Preferred DNS field followed by a secondary DNS server address in the Alternate DNS field. (Here, 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 are the preferred and alternative DNS addresses for Google’s DNS server respectively)
Select Encrypted only (DNS over HTTPS) for both Preferred DNS Encryption and Alternate DNS Encryption dropdowns to apply the DNS over HTTPS feature for encrypting DNS requests.
After making the changes, press the Save button.

Incorrect DNS settings can also create issues when you access Bing AI. You can try changing DNS settings on your PC to resolve the recurring error message for good.

That’s pretty much it! You can implement these tips to resolve network-related issues in Bing AI and carry on your conversations.

In case you are also facing the daily limit reached error on Bing AI, you can refer to the guide above for relevant tricks to bypass the restriction.

If you have any queries or have some solutions handy, mention them in the comments below.

Get the Windows 7 & 8.1 Patch Tuesday updates for April

Posted on April 12, 2023October 4, 2023 by Alexandru Poloboc

As everyone expected, and as is normal, the main focus right now is on Windows 11, but the majority of Windows users still don’t feel like abandoning its predecessor (Windows 10).

Be sure to check out the latest versions of Windows 10, which is 22H2, and also Windows 11, which has also reached version 22H2.

And, as you surely know by now, the Redmond-based tech colossus also releases security updates for some of the obsolete operating systems, during Patch Tuesday.

What this means is that not only Windows 10 and 11 users will receive updates during this time. We’re also looking at Windows 7, Windows 8, and various Server versions as well.

We’ve already presented the 97 new updates that became available, along with the official download links, so all that remains is going a bit more in-depth.

Without any further ado, let’s take a closer look at what Windows 7 and Windows 8 users were given to work with on the April 2023 Patch Tuesday.

Anything to look forward to in this month’s update rollout?

The Redmond-based tech colossus has just released Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 8.1, in the form of KB5025285, and Windows 7, in the form of KB5025279.

Remember that they each come with a whole host of improvements and known issues with some pretty neat workarounds.

Also, remember that Microsoft has recently terminated all ESU for both Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 operating systems.

Windows 7

KB5025279

Improvements

By the March 1, 2023, order of the Arab Republic of Egypt, daylight savings time (DST) will resume on April 28, 2023, and end on October 27, 2023. This update applies to Egypt Standard Time – (UTC+02:00) Cairo.
Known compatibility issues exist with certain printer models which feature GDI printer drivers that do not completely adhere to GDI specifications.

Known issues

After installing this update and restarting your device, you might receive the error, Failure to configure Windows updates. Reverting Changes. Do not turn off your computer, and the update might show as Failed in Update History.

[DIRECT DOWNLOAD LINK]

Windows 8.1

KB5025285

Improvements

By the March 1, 2023, order of the Arab Republic of Egypt, daylight savings time (DST) will resume on April 28, 2023, and end on October 27, 2023. This update applies to Egypt Standard Time – (UTC+02:00) Cairo.
Known compatibility issues exist with certain printer models which feature GDI printer drivers that do not completely adhere to GDI specifications.

[DIRECT DOWNLOAD LINK]

These older, now obsolete versions of the Windows operating system are no longer safe for use, and it is highly recommended you upgrade to a supported version.

And, since the time has come to say goodbye, it is about time you figure out the next steps you will need to take.

Have you encountered any issues after downloading and installing these new security updates for Windows 7 and 8.1?

Share your experience with us in the dedicated comments section located below.

What is Lsalso.exe & How to Fix Its High CPU Usage?

Posted on April 12, 2023October 4, 2023 by Vlad Turiceanu

Some of our readers have recently reported that they encounter some problems with a process in the Task Manager known as lsalso.exe in Windows which results in high CPU usage.

In case you’re also experiencing the Lsalso.exe high CPU usage issue, don’t worry as we have compiled some steps to fix it in this article.

What is Lsalso.exe?

Lsalso.exe is a Microsoft-developed executable file related to Credential Guard and KeyGuard, which runs in Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) as an Isolated User Mode (IUM) process.

LSAISO.exe runs in Virtual Trust Level (VTL) 1, while other processes run in VTL0, ensuring the protection of sensitive data such as hashed passwords and Kerberos keys.

The Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS) process is responsible for managing security policy, user authentication, and auditing, and was modified in Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016.

Although generally considered safe, LSASS can cause high CPU usage issues when certain drivers and applications attempt to load DLL files into the IUM process, destabilizing the system.

What causes Lsalso.exe high CPU usage?

There can be several reasons why you are experiencing the Lsalso.exe high CPU usage error on your Windows PC. Below are some of the possible reasons:

Malware infection – Lsalso.exe is a commonly targeted process by malware that may cause high CPU usage. Malware can disguise itself as Lsalso.exe and run malicious code, resulting in increased CPU usage. Constantly run the Windows Defender or use any of the best antivirus software to fix the issue.
Damaged or corrupted system files – Corrupted system files may also cause the Lsalso.exe process to malfunction and consume high CPU usage. This may occur due to a hardware failure or a software bug. Try using some of the dedicated tools to fix the issue.
Outdated drivers – Outdated drivers can cause various system processes to malfunction, including Lsalso.exe. This can lead to high CPU usage as the process tries to perform its tasks with limited resources. Try to update your drivers to eliminate the possibility.
Multiple concurrent processes – Running multiple processes at the same time can also cause Lsalso.exe to consume high CPU usage. This may happen due to an overloaded system or conflicting software applications. Try to head to your Task Manager to end some processes.

The above causes are just a few possible reasons why Lsalso.exe consumes high CPU usage. Let’s proceed to how to fix the issue in the next section.

How can I fix the Lsalso.exe high CPU usage?

Before trying any of the advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks provided in this article, users should ensure they perform the following preparatory checks.

Remove some unnecessary processes from the Task Manager.
Contact Microsoft Support
Restore Windows to its default state.

Having confirmed the above checks and if you still require further assistance, work your way through any of the steps provided below to fix the issue.

1. Use the Process of Elimination

Press the Windows Start button and type Task Manager in the search area of the taskbar and click Open.
Navigate to the Processes tab and locate the targeted application. Then, right-click on it and select End task. (Do the same with other potentially problematic applications.
Next, launch Device Manager and locate the targeted drivers.
Right-click on them and choose Uninstall driver from the context menu and see if that makes any difference in the high CPU usage caused by lsalso.exe.

Eliminating the processes of these problematic applications and drivers should help fix the issue since certain applications and drivers can load DLL into the IUM process, resulting in a spike in CPU usage associated with lsalso.exe.

2. Check for APCs in the Queue

Install the Windows Debugging (WinDbg) tool from the Windows driver kit.
Then, use NotMyFault.exe from the Sysinternals website to generate a kernel memory dump during the spike.
- To enable kernel memory, press the Windows + R keys to launch the Run dialog box.
- Next, type control system in the text field of the dialog box and press Enter.
- Click Advanced system settings on the left pane.
Navigate to the Advanced tab in the System Properties dialog box. Click on the Settings button under Startup and Recovery.
Next, expand the drop-down menu for Write debugging information and choose Kernel memory dump. Then, press OK.
Now navigate to the Start menu and click on the Windows Kits entry. Choose WinDbg(x64/x86) to proceed.
Click on File and select Symbol File Path.
Now, type https://msdl.microsoft.com/download/symbols for the Microsoft Symbol Server in the Symbol path section.
Click OK and access the File menu again.
Choose Open Crash Dump and browse the location you noted in the 9th step.
Next, Click Open.
Then, type in the command window and press Enter.
Once the command is executed, look for <ProblemDriver>.sys under LsaIso.exe.
Contact your driver vendor now and then refer them to this Microsoft document for mitigation recommendations for Isolated User Mode (IUM).

If the first step mentioned above did not work for you, then you can take the help of these free tools to check for problematic drivers.

3. Update your drivers

Left-click the Start button and select Settings.
Then, click on Windows Update and select Advanced options.
Choose Optional updates in the next window.
Click on Driver Updates, mark the available updates, and click the Download and Install button.

This is a quick alternative to update all the outdated drivers on your device that may prompt this error.

And that’s it on how to fix the Lsalso.exe high CPU usage issue.

For further information on to fix the .exe file if it’s not opening in Windows, you can explore our dedicated guide. If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

Error Code 0x8007001e: How to Fix This Windows Update Issue

Posted on April 12, 2023April 2, 2024 by Vladimir Popescu

The 0x8007001e error code is one of many Windows’ Update error codes. This error indicates that the update failed to install due to insufficient space.

The error prevents Windows Update from running and can lead to BSOD crashes. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the causes of the 0x8007001e error and provide you with steps to fix it.

What causes the Windows Update error 0x8007001e?

The following are some of the common causes of the error code 0x8007001e:

Insufficient Storage – Before Windows can download and install updates on your PC, you must have sufficient space on your local disk. If Windows doesn’t have enough space to install the update, it can lead to the 0x8007001e error code.
Corrupt System Files – Corrupt System files can also force your PC to display the 0x8007001e error code. System files can be corrupted by viruses, forced shutdowns, failed Windows Updates, etc.
Virus and Malware – Unsurprisingly, viruses, and malware are some of the most common causes of Windows error codes. If your PC is infected with a malicious file or program, it can affect certain Windows functionalities like the Windows Update, causing the 0x8007001e error code.

How can I fix the Windows Update error 0x8007001e?

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

Restart your PC.
Close all unnecessary background applications.
Fix Network Congestion.
Free Up Space on your Drive – If your System is running low on space, consider deleting unused files, applications, etc. Alternatively, you can read our guide on how to free up space on Windows.

If the error remains unfixed after applying the above fixes, the following is a list of advanced solutions you can apply to help resolve the 0x8007001e error code:

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Press the Windows key + R, type ms-settings:troubleshoot in the run box, and hit Enter to open up the Troubleshoot section.
Select Other troubleshooters.
Then, click on Windows Update, and click on Run button. If Windows finds any problem, click on Apply this fix to repair the error using that fix.
After applying the fix, close the Windows Update Troubleshooter, and reboot your PC to see if the error is resolved.

In case you need an alternative method to scan your Windows PC for corrupted files, you can always rely on dedicated repair tools.

2. Run a DISM Scan

Press the Windows key + S, type in CMD, right-click on the displayed result, and select Run as Administrator.
Click Yes to grant the app administrative access in the User Account Control window.
Once the command prompt opens, type the following, and hit Enter: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image / Restorehealth
Wait for the scan to be completed, and reboot your PC.

Corrupt system files can lead to a string of Windows errors. If you’re experiencing the 0x8007001e error code, running a DISM scan can help resolve errors triggered by corrupt system files.

3. Run the System File Checker Utility

Press the Windows key + S, type in CMD, right-click on the displayed result, and select Run as Administrator.
Click Yes to grant the app administrative access in the User Account Control window.
Once the command prompt opens, type the following, and hit Enter: sfc /scannow
Wait till the scan is complete, and restart your PC to check if the error persists.

While running the System File Checker utility, you might run into the Windows Resource error. The error prevents the file checker from functioning properly. Ensure to read our guide on how to resolve the error.

4. Apply a System Restore Point

Press the Windows key + R, type rstrui in the dialog box, and hit Enter to open the System Restore window.
In the pop-up window, click Next, then check the box next to Show more Restore points, and click Next again.
Select the last restore point that was created before the occurrence of the 0x8007001e error, and press Next.
Click on Finish, and then click Yes to confirm the System Restore process.
Once you click Yes, your PC will restart automatically and on bootup, your PC will be reverted to an earlier version of Windows before the 0x8007001e error was triggered.

While on the System Restore page, some users might notice that the System Restore button is greyed out. This indicates that you have not created any restore points, and you’ll be unable to apply this fix.

However, here is a detailed guide showing you how to create a system restore point in Windows.

If you’re experiencing the 0x8007001e error code, your first point of action is to free up space. However, the error isn’t always related to memory or storage, as seen in the article.

However, irrespective of the cause of the error, you can return your PC to normal by applying the fixes listed above.

How to Enable & Disable Fingertip Writing in Windows 11

Posted on April 12, 2023October 4, 2023 by Vladimir Popescu

Using the Fingertip Writing in Handwriting Panel in Windows 11 requires enabling the feature. Enabling the fingertip writing feature is a simple process that can be achieved in a few steps.

In this article, we’ll walk you through two of the best steps you can apply to enable and disable fingerprint writing in Windows 11.

What is Fingertip Writing in Windows?

Fingertip Writing is a feature that enables users to operate their PC’s screen using their fingers or a stylus pen.

Further, the feature is one of Windows’ latest releases that enables users to write on the screen with their fingers without using a stylus or pen.

With the feature enabled, you can scribble a character or an alphabet on the screen, and the fingertip writing feature will recognize and convert it to its correct form.

Also, this feature makes writing more straightforward and pretty intuitive.

How can I enable and disable Fingertip Writing in Windows 11?

1. Using the Settings app

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
Click on Bluetooth & devices on the left pane. Then, locate the Pen and Windows Ink tab and click on it to expand the option.
In the next window, click the Use your handwriting to enter text option under the Handwriting section.
To enable the Fingertip writing option, check the box next to the option of Write with your fingertip.
To disable the feature, uncheck the Write with your fingertip option.

2. Using the Registry Editor

Press the Windows key + R, type in regedit in the Run box, and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
In the Registry Editor window, browse and navigate to the following path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\TabletTip
While in the TableTib folder, right-click on the folder and select New, then click the Key option.
Name the newly created folder EmbeddedInkControl.
After renaming the folder, right-click on the EmbeddedInkControl, select New, and choose DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Rename the new REG_DWORD EnableInkingWithTouch.
Now, double-click on the EnableInkingWithTouch REG_DWORD and set its Value data to the following:
- 1 = To enable writing with your fingertip.
- 0 = To disable writing with your fingertip.
Click OK to save the changes.
Close the Registry Editor, Restart your PC, and check if the error persists.

Enabling or Disabling Fingertip writing using the Registry editor is a pretty complicated task. Editing the registry on its own can prove difficult; if done incorrectly, it could lead to many system errors.

Ensure you backup your system and create a restore point on your local disk. With a backup and a restore point in place, you don’t have to worry about crashing your PC and losing all your files.

Enabling or disabling the fingertip writing feature in Windows can be achieved using varying steps. Whatever method you choose to apply, you’ll get the same results.

However, it’s important to note that making changes to the Registry is pretty complicated and can cause many errors if not correctly done.

In case you’re having issues with this feature, be sure to properly enable the Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Panel service beforehand.

Nevertheless, following the steps outlined in the above guide, you can enable and disable the Fingertip Writing in Handwriting Panel in Windows 11.

How to Set Logon Hours for Multiple Remote Users

Posted on April 12, 2023October 4, 2023 by Vladimir Popescu

Logon hours is a Windows Active Directory feature that allows administrators to restrict network access at specific times. When Logon hours are set, all remote users will be able to access the network for the preset time frame.

In this article, we’ll briefly discuss what Logon hours are, and we’ll provide you with detailed steps to help you set them for multiple remote users.

What are Logon hours?

As the name implies, Logon hours are time frames when a user is permitted to Logon to a particular service or network.

For Windows users, Logon hours is a feature in Active Directory that stipulates the dates and times on which users can access a network.

Further, Logon hours are usually applied in the network infrastructure of big companies and corporations to enhance security by ensuring that employees can access the company’s network at the stipulated time.

How can I set Logon hours for multiple Remote Users?

1. Set for multiple users

Press the Windows key + S, type in Server Manager, and hit Enter.
In the Server Manager window, click on Tools on the right pane, and select Active Directory Users and Computers.
In the next window, right-click on 4sysops.local, click on New, and select Create an organizational unit.
Then, press Ctrl + A to highlight all the users in the Organizational Unit, right-click the highlighted users, and select Properties.
On the Properties window, navigate to the Account tab.
Click on the checkbox next to Logon hours, and click the Logon hours button to open the page. (By default, the Logon hours of most users are permitted at all times. However, you’ll need to change the hours according to your preference.)
On the Logon hours page, click on Logon Denied to remove the default logon hours.

The Logon Hours page is sectioned into two; morning to afternoon (9 am to 12 pm) and afternoon to midnight (2 pm to 12 am).

To set your preferred Logon hours, hover over the mini-boxes, click on your preferred Day & Time, and drag the cursor across or downwards depending on the specific time you want to set.
Once you’re done setting the Logon hours, Click on OK.
In the next window, click Apply, and click on OK.

Aside from restricting Logon hours for a group of users, you can also choose to set it for a specific user. This rule will only apply to the singular user and won’t affect the logon hours of other users.

2. Set for Single user

Follow steps 1 and 2 above to open the Active Directory Users window.
Then, click on Users to display the list of users on the network.
Alternatively, you can create a new user by: Right-click the Users button and select New.
On the Users page, scroll to locate the user you wish to set logon hours, right-click the option, and select Properties.
Then, navigate to the Account tab, and click the Logon hours button.
Follow steps 8 to 11 to set the logon hours for the specific user.

In some cases, users have reported that they’re unable to locate Active Directory Users and Computers on their PCs.

This error prevents them from accessing the service and its functionalities. Here is a detailed guide showing you how to enable active directory on windows.

Restricting Logon Hours for users in an organization is advisable if you have official confirmation from the management.

However, if you’re testing the feature on your local machines, you can apply the steps listed above to help you restrict logon hours for users.

Microsoft to bring Windows 11 to its HoloLens 2 headset in June

Posted on April 12, 2023 by Radu Tyrsina

At the beginning of the year, there was a bit of uncertainty pertaining to Microsoft’s commitment to HoloLens 2 and its Mixed Reality program amid the massive layoffs across the company, which also affected the division behind the headset. The division had already suffered a significant blow after Alex Kipman’s departure last year.

Microsoft confirmed that it was still committed, and true to its words, the company has announced its plans to release a new update for HoloLens 2. The new update will bring Windows 11 to the headset.

At the moment, the update is in the testing phase and is only available for Windows Insiders. The optional update is set to hit general availability later this year towards the end of June.

While the update isn’t significantly major, it does ship with some notable improvements. Here’s everything you need to know:

First, developers will now be able to better manage their web-based app experiences through the WebView2 control in Edge. Next up, the update also ships with a new Dynamics 365 Guides mode that’s designed to help users scribble and get creative anywhere while on video calls.

Additionally, the update features a new “Restricted Mode” that’s designed to help users establish more control over which mixed reality apps can be accessed via the HoloLens 2 headset.

With the new update, HoloLens’ OS build will transition to 22621 to align with the latest version of Windows 11. What are your thoughts on Windows 11 coming to HoloLens 2? Let us know in the comments.

via: Windows Central

Edge Efficiency Mode: What is it & How to Enable it

Posted on April 12, 2023March 12, 2024 by Vladimir Popescu

Do you use Microsoft’s browser Edge and are looking for ways to optimize your power usage? If so, you’re in for a treat because the browser has an Efficiency Mode built-in feature.

Toggling this function to ON will cause the inactive tabs to sleep after 5 minutes of inactivity. That will save resources, especially memory and CPU load. However, it will also cause a lack of video streaming and animation performance. The option will also save battery life, so it’s perfect if you’re on a laptop far from an outlet.

Even if there are quite a few great browsers for the new OS, that are highly customizable, it is up to you to quickly learn how to fix Microsoft Edge problems on Windows 11.

And now, it seems like we’re going somewhere with this. In an April 2023 update of Edge, Microsoft revved up the Efficiency Mode, which now includes two options called balanced savings or maximum savings.

For those looking to enable this new feature and speed up your Windows 11 PC while browsing the web, here’s how you can turn on the new Efficiency mode in Microsoft Edge.

If you’re not an Insider, we still have some tips and a solution to speed up your Edge browser as it is, so read on.

How do I optimize Microsoft Edge in Windows 11?

1. Turn on the Efficiency mode

Click on the Menu button (the three horizontal dots) and select Settings.
Now click on System and performance from the left pane and toggle on the Efficiency mode.

If you’re an insider running the latest Edge Canary build, you can also include the Efficiency mode button in the taskbar.

All you need to do is enter Settings, then select the Appearance option from the left, then scroll down and toggle on the Show performance button option.

The button will instantly appear in the toolbar so you can activate and deactivate the function quickly, without going through the Settings menu ever again.

NOTE

This solution is available only for the Insiders running the Edge Canary build 93.0.956.0 and up, so if you’re an insider, update your browser now.

2. Modify the System and Performance settings

Open Edge and click on the horizontal three-dots menu at the top right corner to open Settings.
From the left sidebar, select System.
Now, make sure you toggle the Startup boost and Continue running background apps when Microsoft Edge is closed to off, and turn on the hardware acceleration the Save resources with sleeping tabs and Fade sleeping tabs.
You can also toggle the sleep time for the inactive tabs below to a lower time, let’s say 15 minutes, after which they will be set to sleep and save the resources in the process.

We recommend setting up the System and Performance settings for those running the stable build. This way. you can rest assured that you have the best configuration for your browser.

As you can see, the steps above are easy to follow, and your browser can sometimes speed up visibly after such a task. Clearing cache and cookies can also help optimize your Edge browser.

Best tips on how to increase browsing efficiency:

No matter what browser you’re using, we’ve gathered a few valuable tricks that will help you achieve improved browsing results:

Keep a minimum of tabs open at all times. They will consume resources; even if you’re not using them, they will stay active.
The fewer add-ons and extensions, the better because they use up your RAM memory, which will lead to a slower browser.
Delete cache and browser data regularly because they clutter your browser and system.
If possible, don’t use a proxy or a VPN. Although they will protect your privacy, they can sometimes slow down your connection speed.

Hope you found what you were looking for and that you can finally take advantage of the highest efficiency settings in Windows 11. Even more, you can check out our guide on best DualSense Edge settings for FPS and remap all the buttons on your controller.

After all, you know how Windows 11 compares to Windows 10, and it’s only natural to be eager to enjoy the latest improvements in terms of design, performance, and more.

What’s your way of optimizing Edge?

The 2023 April Patch Tuesday comes with fixes for 97 CVEs

Posted on April 12, 2023April 12, 2023 by Vlad Turiceanu

Easter is almost upon us, but not everything comes down to flowers, colored eggs, and baby rabbits. There are those who eagerly await Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday rollout.

And, as you know, it’s the second Tuesday of the month, which means that Windows users are looking towards the tech giant in hopes that some of the flaws they’ve been struggling with will finally get fixed.

We have already taken the liberty of providing the direct download links for the cumulative updates released today for Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and 11, but now it’s time to talk CVEs again.

For April, Microsoft released 97 new patches, which is still more than some people were expecting for the third month of 2023.

These software updates address CVEs in:

Windows and Windows components
Office and Office Components
Windows Defender
SharePoint Server
Windows Hyper-V
PostScript Printer
Microsoft Dynamic

You probably want to know more on the matter, so let’s dive right into it and see what all the fuss is about this month.

Almost 100 security fixes for the Windows OS in April 2023

Let’s just say that March was far from being a busy month for Microsoft, and still, they managed to release a total of 97 updates.

Even though some might see this as a high number, Microsoft released a total of 128 security patches in April of 2022, so this number is actually lower.

Please keep in mind that, out of all the patches released today, seven are rated Critical and 90 are rated Important in severity.

Even though this high volume does seem to be in line with past years, the number of remote code execution (RCE) bugs makes up nearly half the release.

Experts say it is a bit peculiar to see that many RCE fixes in a single month. Keep in mind that none of the bugs disclosed over Teams during Pwn2Own Vancouver are being addressed by Microsoft this month.

Furthermore, one of the new CVEs is listed as under active attack at the time of release. Let’s take a closer look at some of the more interesting updates for this month.

CVE	Title	Severity	CVSS	Public	Exploited	Type
CVE-2023-28252	Windows Common Log File System Driver Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	Yes	EoP
CVE-2023-28231	DHCP Server Service Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28219	Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	8.1	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28220	Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	8.1	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-21554	Microsoft Message Queuing Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	9.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28291	Raw Image Extension Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	8.4	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28232	Windows Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	7.5	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28250	Windows Pragmatic General Multicast (PGM) Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Critical	9.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28260	.NET DLL Hijacking Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28312	Azure Machine Learning Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	6.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28300	Azure Service Connector Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-24860	Microsoft Defender Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28309	Microsoft Dynamics 365 (on-premises) Cross-site Scripting Vulnerability	Important	7.6	No	No	XSS
CVE-2023-28314	Microsoft Dynamics 365 (on-premises) Cross-site Scripting Vulnerability	Important	6.1	No	No	XSS
CVE-2023-28313	Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Voice Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability	Important	6.1	No	No	XSS
CVE-2023-21769	Microsoft Message Queuing Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28302	Microsoft Message Queuing Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28285	Microsoft Office Graphics Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24883	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	6.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-24884	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24885	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24886	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24887	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24924	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24925	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24926	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24927	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24928	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24929	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28243	Microsoft PostScript and PCL6 Class Printer Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28287	Microsoft Publisher Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28295	Microsoft Publisher Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28288	Microsoft SharePoint Server Spoofing Vulnerability	Important	6.5	No	No	Spoofing
CVE-2023-23375	Microsoft SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-23384	Microsoft SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.3	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28304	Microsoft SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28275	Microsoft WDAC OLE DB provider for SQL Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28311	Microsoft Word Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28268	Netlogon RPC Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	8.1	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28292	Raw Image Extension Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28267	Remote Desktop Protocol Client Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	6.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-21729	Remote Procedure Call Runtime Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	4.3	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-21727	Remote Procedure Call Runtime Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-24893	Visual Studio Code Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28262	Visual Studio Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28263	Visual Studio Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28296	Visual Studio Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.4	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28299	Visual Studio Spoofing Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	Spoofing
CVE-2023-24914	Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28223	Windows Domain Name Service Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28216	Windows Advanced Local Procedure Call (ALPC) Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28218	Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28227	Windows Bluetooth Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28249	Windows Boot Manager Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-28269	Windows Boot Manager Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	6.8	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-28273	Windows Clip Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28229	Windows CNG Key Isolation Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28266	Windows Common Log File System Driver Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28277	Windows DNS Server Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	4.9	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28254	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.2	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28255	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28256	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28278	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28305	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28306	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28307	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28308	Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	6.6	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28226	Windows Enroll Engine Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	5.3	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-28221	Windows Error Reporting Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-24912	Windows Graphics Component Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28276	Windows Group Policy Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	4.4	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-28238	Windows Internet Key Exchange (IKE) Protocol Extensions Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28244	Windows Kerberos Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	8.1	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28298	Windows Kernel Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28222	Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.1	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28236	Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28248	Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28272	Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28293	Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28253	Windows Kernel Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28271	Windows Kernel Memory Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28237	Windows Kernel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28235	Windows Lock Screen Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	6.8	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-28270	Windows Lock Screen Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Important	6.8	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-28217	Windows Network Address Translation (NAT) Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28247	Windows Network File System Information Disclosure Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	Info
CVE-2023-28240	Windows Network Load Balancing Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28225	Windows NTLM Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28224	Windows Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) Remote Code Execution Vulnerability	Important	7.1	No	No	RCE
CVE-2023-28246	Windows Registry Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28297	Windows Remote Procedure Call Service (RPCSS) Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	8.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-24931	Windows Secure Channel Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28233	Windows Secure Channel Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28234	Windows Secure Channel Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28241	Windows Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP) Denial of Service Vulnerability	Important	7.5	No	No	DoS
CVE-2023-28228	Windows Spoofing Vulnerability	Important	5.5	No	No	Spoofing
CVE-2023-28274	Windows Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability	Important	7.8	No	No	EoP
CVE-2023-28284 *	Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability	Moderate	4.3	No	No	SFB
CVE-2023-24935 *	Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Spoofing Vulnerability	Low	N/A	No	No	Spoofing
CVE-2023-28301 *	Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Tampering Vulnerability	Low	4.2	No	No	Tampering

Let’s look at CVE-2023-2825 for one second. This is the one bug under active attack this month, and you might know it because there was a similar 0-day patched in the same component just two months ago.

Apparently, the original fix was insufficient and attackers have found a method to bypass that fix. There is still no information about how widespread these attacks may be.

Please note that this type of exploit is typically paired with a code execution bug to spread malware or ransomware.

On the other hand, CVE-2023-21554 receives Microsoft’s highest exploitability rating. This one allows a remote, unauthenticated attacker to run their code with elevated privileges on affected servers with the Message Queuing service enabled.

Know that this service is disabled by default but is commonly used by many contact center applications, as it listens to TCP port 1801 by default, so blocking this at the perimeter would prevent external attacks.

CVE-2013-3900 is a 10-year-old patch being reissued. You might find this one a bit familiar, and it’s because it was used by a threat actor in the recent 3CX attacks.

Back in the day, this was an opt-in fix, meaning admins had to opt in to get this fix. With this revision, add fixes for additional platforms and adds further recommendations for enterprises.

Looking at the remaining Critical-rated patches, there’s another dangerous bug in Pragmatic General Multicast (PGM) that’s similar to the MSMQ bug already discussed.

That being said, this bug is listed as not exploitable as the Messaging Queue vulnerability. There’s also a bug in the DHCP server, but it may not be as severe as it initially seems.

In fact, it requires a network-adjacent attacker to send an affected DHCP server a specially crafted RPC call. DHCP is not a routable protocol (or a secure one), so external threat actors can’t take advantage of this vulnerability.

Moving on, there are a couple of Critical-rated bugs in the Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol and the Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol.

There have been plenty of similar bugs that received fixes over the last few months, but none have ever been reported as being exploited in the wild.

This final Critical-rated bug impacts the Raw Image Extension, and viewing a specially-crafted file could actually lead to code execution.

Let’s also mention the three cross-site scripting (XSS) bugs in Dynamics 365, which break the streak of five XSS bugs in Dynamics seen in the last two months.

Feel free to check each individual CVE and find out more about what it means, how it manifests, and what scenarios can malicious third parties use to exploit them.

Have you found any other issues after installing this month’s security updates? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.