Each of us has, at some point, or the other, come across a BSOD error in Windows. These errors crash the OS, and any unsaved data is subsequently lost. One of the relatively uncommon BSOD errors that has troubled users for a long time is PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM.
The bug check has a value of 0x00000059 and indicates a problem with the Pinball file system, as per Microsoft’s official website. But it doesn’t list many solutions, nor provide a detailed understanding of the error. So, let’s find out!
What is the PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM error?
The PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM error appears when there isn’t enough nonpaged pool memory, a part of the RAM reserved for running drivers and kernels. It usually has to do with the hardware. Here are a few reasons you encounter the error:
Issues with the RAM modules: The 0x00000059 BSOD error generally arises due to RAM issues, and you should first look for problems with it.
Malfunctioning hardware: A malfunctioning piece of hardware or an external peripheral is just as likely to trigger the error:
Incompatible or outdated drivers: If you are running incompatible or outdated drivers, it won’t just affect the relay of commands between the PC and the device but may also trigger a BSOD error.
How do I fix the PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM BSOD?
Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick things you should do:
Disconnect all the non-critical peripherals from the PC, except the keyboard, mouse, and monitor, in case of a desktop. Now, turn it on and check whether the BSOD appears. If not, plug them back in one at a time, restart the computer, and when the PC crashes with PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM, the device last connected is at fault.
Make sure the RAM modules are plugged in properly. Or disconnect them, clean the modules with an eraser, and firmly place them in the slot.
Check for available Windows updates, and install any pending ones.
If none of these work, move to the fixes listed next.
1. Uninstall recent programs
Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.
Select the recently added programs individually, and click on Uninstall.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Several third-party programs can conflict with the current PC settings, especially the memory allocation, and trigger the PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM error in Windows 7 and the later versions. Identify the apps installed when the error first appeared and remove them.
Also, you could use an effective uninstaller software to delete any remnant files and clear the registry entries made by the program.
2. Update the drivers
Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager from the list.
Expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.
Now, select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to identify and install the best possible one.
Outdated drivers are one of the primary reasons behind the PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM BSOD in Windows. And when you start, update the graphics driver first, then move to the others. But make sure to check for updates for all the drivers, even manually install the latest driver version, if required.
If not, there are other alternatives, namely specialized software like Outbyte Driver Updater, which will find all outdated or missing drivers and update them with the latest versions.
3. Test the memory
Since the error is linked to the RAM, you must run a bunch of tests to fix issues with the installed memory. Start with Windows Memory Diagnostics, the built-in memory testing tool, to perform a few quick checks and identify and eliminate problems triggering the BSOD.
If that doesn’t work, we recommend you run Memtest86+, an open-source memory testing tool, to do a wide range of extensive tests on the RAM and fix any issues found. Remember, the scan may take a couple of hours, so it’s best to run it overnight.
Tip
In case none of the solutions listed here work, we recommend you change the RAM modules or increase the installed memory in the PC.
That’s it! One of the solutions here should have helped you fix the PINBALL_FILE_SYSTEM BSOD and get things up and running. You may also try a BSOD repair tool to resolve the problem automatically.
Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.
Blue Screen of Death errors are one of the most dreaded in Windows, particularly due to the loss of unsaved data and its subsequent corruption. One such BSOD is the DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, often caused by the covpnv64.sys file.
A Windows System File (.sys), covpnv64.sys pertains to the VPN functionality and is often linked to the F5 VPN software. So, let’s find out the various triggers and the troubleshooting steps to fix the BSOD error in no time.
What is the covpnv64.sys blue screen?
The blue screen appears due to issues with the installed drivers, and it’s usually the covpnv64.sys file to blame. Here are a few reasons you get the BSOD:
Driver Verifier is enabled: When the Driver Verifier is enabled, the PC automatically crashes with a blue screen whenever a driver initiates an unwarranted action.
Conflicting third-party programs: A third-party antivirus or other performance-booster programs can also trigger the error for some users.
Corrupt system files: If the covpnv64.sys or other system files are corrupt, you are likely to encounter a BSOD.
Buggy update: Some F5 APM Client users started reporting the error after a buggy update which was fixed for most in the subsequent versions.
How do I fix the covpnv64.sys error?
Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick things you can try:
Restart the computer and verify whether the error reappears.
Scan your PC for malware and virus using the built-in Windows Security or a third-party antivirus, and eliminate any that are found.
If these don’t work, move to the solutions listed next.
1. Upgrade to APM Client version 7.2.2.2 or a more recent one (F5 client users)
The bug was widely reported to F5 by users, and the developers soon came out with version 7.2.2.2, which supposedly introduced the patch for the covpnv64.sys BSOD error. So your primary approach should be to update to APM Client Version 7.2.2.2.
A few users reported the error even after the upgrade, but it was fixed for most of them in the subsequent versions. Just make sure you always remain up-to-date.
2. Reset the Driver Verifier
Shut down the computer, then turn it on, and as soon as the display lights up, hold the power button to turn it off. Repeat this thrice, and on the fourth attempt, the Automatic Repair should kick in. If it doesn’t, try a few more times.
Wait for Automatic Repair to run, and then click on Advanced options.
Choose Troubleshoot from the entries here.
Again, select Advanced options.
Now, click on Startup Settings.
Click Restart.
After the PC reboots, press 6 or F6 to boot Windows into Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
Once in Safe Mode, press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
Paste the following command and hit Enter:verifier /reset
Finally, boot Windows normally.
The Driver Verifier functionality in Windows crashes the OS as soon as an installed driver tries to make an untoward change or perform an action not expected from it. Driver Verifier is just a troubleshooting technique to identify the problematic driver and not a solution in itself.
After you have reset it, check whether the covpnv64.sys BSOD error is fixed.
If you can’t turn on the PC, boot Windows into Safe Mode either through the method shared in the previous solution or via the built-in Settings.
Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click OK.
Select the F5 VPN Software from the list, and click on Uninstall.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Once done, press Windows + E to open File Explorer, navigate the following paths, and delete any remnant files/folders related to the F5 VPN Software:C:\ProgramDataC:\Program Files
Finally, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.
That’s it! One of these solutions should have helped fix the covpnv64.sys BSOD error in Windows. And in case you were forced to uninstall the F5 VPN software to get things running, here are the best VPN tools for Windows.
For any other queries or to share a solution not listed here, drop a comment below.
Season 1 filming of Amazon’s Fallout TV adaptation wrapped up in Utah on Friday, March 24th. Does this mean we’ll finally get to watch in the very near future? Unfortunately the answer is…not likely. The show will now enter post-production phase which typically lasts several months. And though a late 2023 release is possible, 2024 is a more likely bet.
Fallout will star Walter Goggins and Ella Purnel. First announced in 2020, there have since been various leaks of set images throughout the show’s production, as seen above. Upon release, the show will be streamable via Amazon Prime Video.
Whether you’re writing an email, a blog, or a social media post, Microsoft Editor can help you catch grammar mistakes, point out typos, and even provide writing suggestions based on your intended audience.
What’s super helpful is that you can also use it on non-Microsoft products.
If you do extensive writing on Chrome, Firefox, or any other popular web browser, then using Microsoft Editor will only take your writing up the notch. So let’s dive into how you can use Microsoft Editor.
How to use Microsoft Editor on Chrome
If you are like 65.74% of the people using web browsers today, you probably already use Chrome for all your internet surfing needs. If you write your emails, social or other posts through your browser, you need to get a writing assistant already.
This is where Microsoft Editor can help. It will fix all your grammar issues, fix mispellings, and give a boost to your writing in general. So let’s look at how to use Microsoft Editor on your Chrome browser.
Add Microsoft Editor to Chrome
Downloading and adding the Microsoft Editor extension will be the obvious first step. Here’s how you can get started with Chrome:
Launch the Chrome web browser and head to the Chrome Web Store.
Look up “microsoft editor” in the search box and click the Add to Chrome button. The extension will be added to your browser.
Click on Add extension in the next prompt, and the tool will be added to your browser.
You might be taken to the Sign in page if you haven’t logged into your Microsoft account already. There, enter your credentials and log in to your account.
Select the Extensions icon from the top-right corner, and pin the Editor extension to your homepage.
You can use the Microsoft Editor on your Chrome from here on. You can simply head to your emails, start typing out what you need to, and if you make any mistake along the way on your Chrome browser, the Editor will auto-correct them for you.
Use Microsoft Editor on Word Web
If you have accessed the web version of Word before, you’ll do just fine. Nothing much has changed here, either. When you go to the home page of your Word web, if your installation went fine, you’ll find the icon of your Microsoft Editor right there under the Comments and Share buttons.
From here, you can start writing out to your heart’s content. As soon as you make a slight typo or grammatical error, the Editor will point it out to you, usually by underlining the mistake. Earlier we’d covered how you can use the Microsoft Editor in Edge, focusing on emails. You can use the Microsoft Editor on Chrome similarly here.
Using Microsoft Editor on Chrome
Microsoft Editor is one of the many tools out there that work by fixing all your writing typos and other related mistakes. The free version of the app is handy on its own and will help you with most of your tasks. If you use Chrome on your Windows even semi-regularly, we’d say trying out Editor for a while might not be a bad idea.
According to a new report by Bloomberg, Microsoft reportedly doesn’t want any of its AI chatbot rivals using its Bing search index. The company has further indicated that it might go as far as placing data restrictions to prevent access.
This news comes after the company reportedly found two companies that remain anonymous using Bing’s search index for their AI chatbot services, outrightly violating Microsoft’s terms and conditions. If both companies continue with this trend Microsoft has indicated that it will revoke their licenses kicking them out of the service.
Microsoft provides licenses to various companies, including DuckDuckGo which recently debuted DuckAssist, Neeva, and You.com which grants them access to the company’s Bing search data. With a license from Microsoft, a company like DuckDuckGo gets to leverage Bing’s capabilities alongside its own to provide users with search results.
It’s apparent that most, if not all companies are trying to clock on the AI trend right now, but with Microsoft now threatening to place data restrictions on Bing’s search index, most of its AI rivals could crumble as most of their search engines are dependent on Bing.
Microsoft indicates that its AI rivals using Bing’s search index as their primary foundation is breaching the set terms and conditions under the license contract. And on this basis, Microsoft will reportedly revoke contracts it’s in with search engines that don’t adhere to these rules.
While speaking to Bloomberg, Microsoft indicated that:
We’ve been in touch with partners who are out of compliance as we continue to consistently enforce our terms across the board. We’ll continue to work with them directly and provide any information needed to find a path forward.
With even more companies incorporating ChatGPT-like features across their services and products, it’s likely that Microsoft might try to make Bing’s search index exclusive to its own chatbot, Bing Chat. Just last week, Google opened up its Bard AI Chat platform to select users in the US and UK with plans to roll out the tool to a wider audience in the near future.
Last week, Microsoft released build 25324 to the Canary Channel for Windows 11 Insiders. The new build featured a ton of improvements such as the USB4 settings page, password copy/paste unsafe warnings, as well as a revamped widgets board experience.
However, as spotted by @PhantomOfEarth on Twitter, the evolved widgets board with a larger canvas and dedicated sections for widgets is not the only enhancement that this build shipped with.
If you interact with widgets a lot in Windows 11, you must’ve noticed that the weather widget is lodged at the left at all times.
New Widgets entry point next to the system tray when taskbar icons are left aligned: 43214488 'Show websites from browsing history' in Start menu settings: 42905461 Snipping Tool screen recording keyboard shortcut (Win+Shift+R): 42063280
— PhantomOcean3 ???????? (@PhantomOfEarth) March 24, 2023
Though it now seems that users will soon be able to move the widgets from the left to the right. This will happen when you switch to the left-aligned taskbar on your Windows 11 device.
With this new possibility, the Windows 11 taskbar will resemble the Windows 10 taskbar. There are already multiple tips and tricks that you can use to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10, this new addition will join the list once Microsoft ships the feature to broad availability.
However, as is the case with most build releases, the feature remains hidden and didn’t appear in Microsoft’s changelog. This usually indicates that Microsoft is currently testing the feature and isn’t ready to release it to general availability.
If you’re not particularly interested in widgets on Windows 11 and would like to disable them, we invite you to check out our expert guide that will help you out with that. Be sure to also share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Updates are critical to the effective functioning of the PC, be it for Windows or the installed apps. An up-to-date computer delivers faster performance and is better protected against threats. But many users reported getting the 0x800b0101 update error.
The error code affects the PC’s ability to install Windows updates via Settings, using the MSU standalone installer, and when downloading apps from Microsoft Store. So, let’s find out how you can get things up and running in these cases.
What is failed to install 0x800b0101?
The error is encountered when you try to install a missing update from the standalone installer downloaded from Microsoft Update Catalog. Normally, we head to the catalog when unable to update the OS normally. But, when it starts to throw an error, users are left in a pickle.
Here are a few reasons your might be getting the error:
Issues with certificates: One of the reasons users get the 0x800b0101 error is when a required certificate is not within its validity period. This is usually due to an incorrect time set on the PC.
Connect to a different network, preferably a wired one, and verify whether the 0x800b0101 error disappears.
If these don’t work, head to the fixes listed next.
1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
Press Windows + I to open Settings, and then click on Troubleshoot on the right in the System tab.
Click on Other troubleshooters.
Locate Windows Update and click the Run button next to it.
Now, wait for the troubleshooter to identify and eliminate the problem automatically.
When getting the 0x800b0101 error, your primary approach should be to run the dedicated Windows Update troubleshooter. Once done, try installing the same update via the built-in method, and if it still fails, use the update catalog.
2. Correct the PC time
Press Windows + I to launch Settings, select Time & language from the navigation pane, and click on Date & time on the right.
Now, you can either enable the Set time automatically setting, or click on the Change button to manually configure it.
Choose the present date and time from the various dropdown menus, and click on Change to confirm.
3. Run the DISM and SFC scan
Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and then hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
Paste the following three commands one at a time, and press Enter after each:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Once done, run this command for the SFC scan: sfc /scannow
If it’s the corrupt system files to blame for the error, we recommend you run the DISM tool and the SFC (System File Checker) scan to repair/replace any corrupt system files, as well as fix other issues with the Windows image.
Otherwise, you may also opt for a proficient system repair technology that can fully scan your Windows PC to detect malfunctioned files or programs, broken registry, and many more issues. Such a tool is a suitable choice when you’re dealing with these types of errors that prevent your OS from running properly.
The steps here are to perform an in-place upgrade in Windows 11. If you are facing the error on Windows 10, directly download the Media Creation Tool, and run it to repair the Windows installation.
Now, click on the provided link to start the download.
Double-click on the ISO file to view its contents and click Open in the prompt that appears.
Run the setup.exe file.
Click Next to continue.
Now, click Accept to agree to the license terms.
Finally, make sure the setup lists, Keep personal files and apps, and click on Install to proceed.
That’s it! Wait for the in-place upgrade to complete (may take a few hours). Once done, things should be up and running like before, and you shouldn’t get the 0x800b0101 error. An in-place upgrade will fix any issues with the OS without affecting the installed apps or stored files.
ChatGPT has emerged as the perfect solution for programmers, writers, or those curious about the little things. And the popular AI tool has handled the rush pretty well. But of late, many users started getting The conversation is too long error on ChatGPT.
When the error appears, the conversation is terminated instantly, and the progress is lost. The message reads, The conversation is too long, please start a new one. Let’s find out how you can resolve things here.
Why does ChatGPT say The conversion is too long?
Here are the reasons you usually get the error:
Hit the limit: ChatGPT has a limit of 4096 tokens which includes both the question and the responses. Once it’s reached, the error message may appear.
Server issues: Users often receive The conversation is too long message on ChatGPT way before the limit is reached, which points to a server issue.
How do I fix The conversation is too long error on ChatGPT?
Tip
There are no ways to get past the error, but you can always avoid it or follow our workarounds to continue working with the previous data.
1. Ask ChatGPT to summarize
The way to prevent The conversation is too long message on ChatGPT from appearing is to ask the AI chatbot to summarize the conversation every few thousand words.
You could use the following query, and it will soon generate a comprehensive summary:
Summarize our conversation.
Once you have it, start a new chat, input the summary you generated earlier, and ChatGPT will be able to ascertain the context and come up with relevant responses for future questions.
2. Use a summarization tool
If ChatGPT isn’t able to provide a relevant summary or it isn’t particularly useful to you, some various websites and tools could effectively do the job.
QuillBot is a reliable option preferred by many, while others go with relatively newer tools. So, try a few of the available summarization tools and find out which one works best for you.
3. Break the conversation into smaller parts
Another workaround that did the trick for users was to break the conversation into smaller parts and move to a new one when a specific query was fully answered. This helps ensure that the word or token limit on ChatGPT is not reached and you don’t get The conversation is too long message.
This might not work for users trying to gather detailed information about a given subject, or their style involves splitting the conversation into branches. That’s where the last option comes in.
While there’s no clarity over an increased limit or the removal of it altogether, switching to ChatGPT Plus does offer a range of benefits. And, as per some users, it reduces the chances of coming across The conversation is too long message on ChatGPT.
At present, the Plus subscription is available at $20 per month. It offers access to the AI chatbot even during peak hours, reduces the response time, and provides priority access to new features on the platform.
That’s it! As we said, there are no ways to get rid of The conversation is too long message in ChatGPT. But a fine-tuned approach will prevent it.
Before you leave, discover the best ChatGPT alternatives and discover the other emerging AI chatbots.
For any queries or to share other viable solutions or workarounds, comment below.
Sorting by color is an incredibly useful feature of Google Sheets, but implementing it can be tricky for some. Whether you’re working on a large dataset or need to optimize data, the ability to sort Google Sheets data by color can be the real game-changer.
In this guide, we’ve explained the different methods to sort Google Sheets data based on cell color.
How do I sort Google Sheets by cell color?
1. Using Filter toggles
Drag and select the dataset you want to sort by color.
Select Data from the Toolbar and select Create a filter from the drop-down menu.
Click the funnel icon present in the header row of the column you want to sort the data by.
Choose Sort by color from the flyout menu and then the Fill Color option from the submenu. After this, choose the color you want to sort data by.
The selected dataset will now be sorted, and any rows marked with the selected color will appear at the top. All the other cells will still be in their original order.
2. Using the Sort range feature
2.1 Find the Hex color code
Select the cell with the color you want to find the code of.
Choose Fill Color from the ribbon and click the Addition symbol.
Copy the hex code for the current color from the text field.
2.2 Sort data based on Hex color code
Insert a new column having the hex color code next to the dataset.
Select the entire range of data, including the new column with the hex color code.
Select Data from the toolbar and choose Sort range.
Then choose the column having the hex color code and whether to sort in A to Z or Z to A order.
The data will now be sorted based on the column having the corresponding color hex code. Sort range enables you to sort the data in the selected dataset based on the chosen column. Here, the data is sorted according to the column having the hex code representing the color.
How do I sort Google Sheets with multiple cell colors?
Drag to select the dataset with multiple colors.
Select Data from the Toolbar and then Create a filter from the drop-down menu.
Click the funnel icon present in the header row of the column.
Choose Sort by color from the sub-menu and then the Fill Color option.
Choose a color group, for instance, orange to sort all the orange rows on the top.
Next, follow the same steps and choose red from the Fill Color option. This will sort all the red color rows below the orange ones.
Follow the same process once again and choose white as the color group this time. This will group all the white color rows on the top, red below them, and orange rows at the bottom.
Google Sheets follows a pattern when sorting a dataset having multiple colors. Rows having the first color choice will appear at the bottom, and the last color to be sorted appears on the top in the resulting data.
How do I sort Google Sheets by text color?
Select the dataset, choose Data from the toolbar, and select Create a filter option from the drop-down.
Click the Funnel icon in any header column.
Select Sort by color from the drop-down and then Text color from the sub-menu.
Choose the blue color option to sort all the blue color text entries at the top of the list.
If the dataset has more than two text colors, follow the same process for the next text color as well. Similar to the background color, it is also possible to sort Google Sheets data based on their text color.
These are all the possible ways to sort Google Sheets data by color to make data easier to organize. While here, you may also be interested to know how to hide columns in Google Sheets.
If you found this guide useful, or have any suggestions for us, do let us know in the comments section.
Windows updates are important if you want to keep your PC running optimally. Unfortunately, some users are experiencing the error 0x80071160 when running the update. According to reports, the update begins normally, but when it gets to 100, it stalls and then fails.
Windows update errors are not new; usually, the built-in troubleshooter should be able to fix such issues. However, that is not the only way to address such errors, and in this article, we shed more light on other troubleshooting techniques.
Why am I getting the 0x80071160 error?
0x80071160 is a common error code in Windows when you try to update your computer. Some of its possible causes include:
Incomplete installation – It is possible that a previous update was not completed, which resulted in some files failing to install correctly, causing this error.
Corrupt update – If there is a problem with the update files themselves, the update will fail no matter how many times you try to download it.
Interrupted connection – Your Internet connection may have dropped out during installation, causing the process to stall before finishing completely.
Corrupt system files – If your system files somehow got corrupted, it will be impossible for Windows to recognize what version of Windows you are running on your computer.
Insufficient hard drive space – More often than not, Windows updates complete successfully, but when it comes to installation, your hard drive does not have enough storage to accommodate the update.
Server updates – Sometimes, Microsoft might be doing some scheduled maintenance on its servers so that they can work smoothly without any glitches.
How do I fix error 0x80071160?
Before any technical troubleshooting, we recommend that you perform the following basic checks:
Check your network connection. If you have another device connected to the same router as your computer, ensure they aren’t using up all of your bandwidth.
Verify the server status and ensure no planned outages or maintenance schedules exist.
Check for known issues with the update. If there are known problems with it, Microsoft will post information about those issues on its support site.
If you have a third-party firewall installed on your PC, check if it is blocking updates from being installed successfully for security reasons.
3. Restart the Background Intelligent Transfer Service
Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
Type services.msc and hit Enter.
Locate the Background Intelligent Transfer Service, right-click on it, and select Properties.
Navigate to the General tab, under Startup type, select Automatic from the drop-down options, and click on the Start button.
Next, click Apply and then OK.
4. Reset Windows update components
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: net stop bitsnet stop wuauservnet stop appidsvcnet stop cryptsvcDel "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*"rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Qrmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Qregsvr32.exe /s atl.dllregsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dllregsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dllnetsh winsock resetnetsh winsock reset proxynet start bitsnet start wuauservnet start appidsvcnet start cryptsv
5. Download the update manually
If none of the above methods work, try downloading the updates manually. You can get the specific update from the Microsoft update catalog. Sometimes, it may be that your computer has some other problem that’s preventing the update from installing.
Given how frequently Windows update errors occur, it is recommended that you install a Windows update repair tool that can take care of such issues automatically.
It can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause of the error while doing a trial and error with multiple solutions. At least with these tools, your work is made easier, and they can fix a plethora of issues.
Please share with us in the comment section below if there is a solution that may have fixed this same issue but missing from our list.
When the Lenovo or Acer laptop cannot detect the boot device on startup, it displays the Default Boot Device Missing or Boot Failed. Insert Recovery Media and Hit any key, Then Select Boot Manager to choose a new Boot Device or to Boot Recovery Media message instead of the startup screen.
If you are encountering this error on your PC, follow this guide to fix it.
What causes the default boot device missing or boot failed error?
If you see the default boot device missing or boot failed error during system boot, one or more of the following is likely to be the cause:
SATA cable – Defective or broken SATA cables cannot set up a successful connection.
Power supply – Insufficient power supply is a prevalent reason that can also set off several errors like the one at hand.
Incorrect boot sequence or boot order – If the BIOS settings are incorrect, the default boot device missing error is inevitable.
Inactive primary partition – If the primary boot partition is inactive, you may face the cause of the default boot device missing or boot failed error on Lenovo/Acer laptops.
Unsupported hard disk drive – A defective, unsupported, or corrupt hard drive can also trigger this error. You can employ health check software to identify if there is a problem with HDD.
Fortunately, you can fix the non-bootable Lenovo/Acer device by implementing the reliable fixes below.
How do I fix the default boot device missing error in Lenovo/Acer?
Before employing the methods listed below:
Be mindful to disconnect any USB media from your PC. This is essential because, in such a scenario, your system will boot from the USB instead of the boot drive.
1. Change Boot Order and Boot Mode
Restart your computer and immediately press the F10 or F12 key to access the BIOS settings.
Navigate to the Boot menu in the Boot Setup window and check whether the Boot Hard Drive is detected. If yes, then set it as the priority using arrow keys.
Next, select Boot Mode and set it as UEFI instead of LEGACY.
After this, press F10 to save changes, exit BIOS and reboot your PC normally.
Incorrect boot order and boot mode prevent Windows from booting successfully. Changing the BIOS settings can resolve this startup error in Lenovo and Acer devices.
2. Activate the primary partition
Boot your PC from the Windows installation media. If you don’t have one, refer to this guide to create Windows Installation Media with UEFI support.
Select Repair your computer from the next screen.
Next, select Troubleshoot.
Choose Command Prompt from the Advanced options window.
Type or paste the following commands one by one and press the Enter key.
diskpart list disk select disk 0 list partition select partition 1 active
When the current partition is marked as active, exit the command prompt window.
It is essential to set the primary partition as active otherwise, you will get the default boot device missing or boot failed error upon startup. You can also refer to this guide to rebuild the boot partition on Windows.
Provide the necessary information and press the Next button.
Select the Repair your computer option from the next screen.
Next, choose Troubleshoot.
Select Advanced options.
Choose the Startup Repair option from the Advanced options window.
Now Startup Repair will scan your PC to diagnose the problem and resolve it. When the repair is completed, restart your computer, and hopefully, you will no longer get the default boot device missing or boot failed error.
Changing the Storage controller mode may cause a loss of data. You are advised to back up or clone the disk before attempting this solution.
Reboot your computer and immediately press the F10 or F12 key to access the BIOS Setup screen.
Switch to the Storage tab using the right arrow key, select Storage Options using the downward arrow, and press the Enter key.
Use the arrow key to select SATA Configuration and set Configure SATA as AHCI.
Finally, press the F10 key to save changes and reboot your PC as you normally would.
Incorrect SATA emulation settings can cause errors of different sorts, including the default boot device missing or boot failed error during Windows PC startup.
You can try these methods to fix the default boot device missing or boot failed error on Acer/Lenovo laptops and those of other brands. If you get the ACPI BIOS error on Windows PC, try the solutions provided in this guide.
If you have any questions or suggestions, let us know in the comments section below.
Dropbox is a cloud-based file-hosting service that allows you to share files and folders. The basic storage capacity is 2GB which gets used quickly. Hence, it can cause Dropbox not enough space to access a folder on your device.
What causes Dropbox not enough space to access the folder?
There are several potential causes of Dropbox not having enough space to access a folder:
Insufficient storage – Dropbox may not have enough available storage space to download or sync the files in the folder, resulting in the error. You may need to upgrade your Dropbox plan or delete some files to free up space.
Connectivity issues – Network connection issues such as network congestion, slow internet network, and network timeout can cause Dropbox not enough space to access a folder on network error.
File size limitations -Dropbox has file size limitations, and if the file size exceeds the limit allowed in a folder, you cannot access them.
The reasons above vary on different PCs. Regardless, we will discuss how to fix insufficient storage issues in Dropbox.
What can I do if Dropbox doesn’t have enough space to access folder?
Open your browser, visit the Dropbox web page, and log in.
Click your profile name on the home page and select Settings.
Select the Refer a friend category from the top.
Type in the email ID of your friend and click the send button. You can copy and share your referral link with others.
The Dropbox feature allows you to increase the storage capacity by 500 MB for each friend invited.
6. Upgrade your Dropbox account
Log in to your Dropbox account and click the Upgrade button from the top right corner.
Click the Buy now button under the plan you want to buy.
Subscribing for more storage is a means to solve Dropbox’s not having enough space to access folders on Mac and other devices.
7. Tell Dropbox about Cloud service
Open the Dropbox web page and navigate to the Get more space page.
Scroll through and click on Tell us why you love Dropbox.
Type your reasons into the dialog box and click the Send to Dropbox button.
Giving feedback to Dropbox on what you love about their service is another means of increasing your storage capacity.
Further, disabling the offline file will make the file or folder only available when the internet connection is available. You can also read about how to add Dropbox to File Explorer on Windows.
When shutting down your computer, have you ever encountered a window that refuses to close? This can be frustrating and is often because of the AutoEndTasks feature. Therefore, this article will focus on AutoEndTasks and how to turn it on or off.
Windows Autoendtask is a feature that automatically ends tasks or processes that are not closing correctly when the system is shutting down. This feature helps prevent system crashes or data loss that may occur if unresponsive applications are allowed to continue running indefinitely.
Furthermore, AutoEndTasks sets a time limit for the application or process to shut down gracefully when the system is shutting down. If the application does not respond within the set time limit, Windows will automatically terminate it to ensure a smooth system shutdown.
However, you can turn the feature off or on depending on your preferences. So, we will take you through the steps involved without posing any threat to your computer.
How can I turn on or off AutoEndTasks?
1. Enable and disable AutoEndTasks for all users
Right-click the Windows icon and select Run from the list.
Type regedit and press the Enter key. Select the Yes button on the User Account Control prompt to open the Registry Editor.
Double click the HKEY_USERS to expand it and select the .DEFAULT to expand it. Double-click on the Control Panel to expand it and select Desktop.
Right-click the right pane, click on New, and select String Value. Rename the New Value #1 to AutoEndTasks.
Right-click the AutoEndTasks value and select Modify from the context menu.
Input 1 into the Value data address bar and press OK to turn on the AutoEndTasks feature.
To turn off the AutoEndTasks feature, Input 0 into the Value data address bar and press OK.
As the name suggests, BSOD or Blue Screen of Death are the errors that crash Windows and lead to a blue screen. These have been present in Windows for as far as most of us can recollect, dating back to 1993. One of these is the 0x00000024 Stop Code.
The 0x00000024 BSOD error was widely reported in Windows 10, 7, Vista, and XP, though it was more prominent in the earlier iterations of the OS. No matter the case, let’s find out how you can fix the BSOD 0x00000024 in Windows.
What is 0x00000024 Windows 10?
The BSOD is one of the trickiest errors, given the abundance of underlying causes, with no hints or tricks on finding the actual one. The same applies to Stop Code 0x00000024.
Here are a few reasons you are getting the error:
Corrupt system files: One of the common reasons behind a BSOD error is corrupt system files, which also affects the other critical functions of the OS.
Issues with the installed drivers: Incompatible, corrupt, or outdated drivers can trigger a range of issues, ranging from hardware malfunctioning to the 0x00000024 BSOD error.
Malware or virus on the PC: Certain malware and virus attack the core functioning of the OS and lead to a BSOD error.
Issues with the hard disk: When bad sectors on the hard disk or problems with the format render the data unreadable, a BSOD may appear.
How do I fix 0x00000024?
Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones:
Restart the computer and verify whether the error reappears.
Make sure all the connections are in order, especially the hard drive. Blow compressed air into ports to clean them.
Check for any overclocking and remove it.
Test all the RAM modules individually by unplugging the others, and as soon as the error appears, the one currently connected is the culprit. Or you could run Memtest86+, an open-source memory testing tool.
If these don’t work, move to the fixes listed next.
1. Run the Check Disk utility
NOTE
If you have a spare computer, unplug the hard drive from the affected PC and connect it to the spare one. Now run the Check Disk utility. In case that’s not possible, you will have to run Command Prompt from the Recovery Mode.
Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
Paste the following command and hit Enter to run Check Disk:CHKDSK C: /F
If asked to schedule to scan for the next time you restart the computer, press Y and then Enter.
Now, reboot the PC and wait for the Check Disk utility to identify and fix issues.
Your primary approach when dealing with 0x00000024 in Windows 10 should be to check for issues with the hard drive. While you could rely on Check Disk, the built-in utility, a third-party disk repair tool may also be useful.
Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.
Now, select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to find and install the best one.
When you get a BSOD, first update the graphics driver since it’s the most probable underlying cause in addition to the drivers for the network adapters.
If the Stop Code 0x00000024 persists, you can proceed with updating the other drivers. Besides, there is always the option manually install the latest driver.
However, not all of us are tech-savvy users or it may not work to perform it manually. For that reason, you can choose the efficient way to update Windows drivers.
Using Outbyte Driver Updater will start with a systematic scan for OS and find all the drivers that need to be updated. From there, you press the button and the drivers will update automatically.
Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
Locate any application that got installed or updated around the same time the error first appeared, select it, and click Uninstall.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
It’s often the third-party antivirus that triggers the 0x00000024 BSOD in Windows XP and the later iterations. So, make sure to delete them all, and until a patch is released for the bug, rely on Windows Security, the built-in antivirus.
Users encountered a network error, but recently, the Bad Gateway error on ChatGPT has been widely reported. The Bad Gateway error on ChatGPT indicates an issue with the backend server. So, first, check the ChatGPT server status. In case something’s wrong with the server, you just need to wait for the downtime to pass. In the meantime, you can refresh the browser by pressing Ctrl + Shift + R, or try connecting to a different network.
How do I fix the ChatGPT Bad Gateway error?
1. Login using a free account
A common observation made during the previous phase of the Bad Gateway error on ChatGPT was that the users with a free account were able to sign in rather quickly, while it was the Plus subscribers who had a hard time.
Signup error on ChatGPT
So, use your free account to access ChatGPT. However, if you haven’t yet created a free account and are trying to register during the downtime, chances are, the Signup is currently unavailable, please try again later error may appear.
2. Disable the VPN
If the Bad Gateway error on ChatGPT is region-centric, i.e., being faced by users in a particular state or country and not worldwide, using a VPN might help. When routing the connection via a VPN, select the servers for the country where the chatbot is running.
There are several free and paid VPN tools available, though the free options usually have limited features and servers. Also, Opera has a built-in free VPN, so you could try using the browser.
The steps listed here are for Chrome, but the process to clear browsing data remains pretty much the same for every browser.
Launch your browser, and press Ctrl + Shift + Del to open the Clear browsing data option.
Now, select All time from the Time range dropdown menu, tick the checkboxes for all three, Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, and Cached images and files, and then click on Clear data.
Finally, restart the browser for the changes to fully apply and try accessing ChatGPT.
In case others are able to access ChatGPT while you are the only one facing the Bad Gateway error, it’s likely to do with the browser cache and cookies, and clearing them should do the trick. Alternatively, you could use the incognito/private mode in your browser.
That’s all we have on the error! If these don’t work out, we recommend you wait out the downtime or contact ChatGPT support for a resolution.
Microsoft Defender or Windows Security is the built-in antivirus in Windows, and as per our research and comparison with available options, at par with the other prominent security software. But many reported getting the 0x80004004 error when updating Windows Defender.
The inability to update Windows Defender affects the programs’ effectiveness again the latest malware and viruses and, subsequently, puts the user’s PC at risk. This makes it imperative that you understand the problem and know ways to get rid of it.
What is error code 0x80004004?
The error code states that Windows Defender couldn’t install the latest updates. In addition, the message reads: Virus and spyware definition couldn’t be updated.
Here are a few reasons you get error 0x80004004 when updating Windows Defender:
Corrupt system files: When there are corrupt system files on the PC, the built-in programs and other critical features may not work.
Third-party antivirus triggering the issue: Other antiviruses installed on the PC or even their remnant files can lead to the 0x80004004 error.
How do I fix error code 0x80004004?
Before we move forward, try these quick tricks first:
Restart the computer and then try updating Windows Defender.
Make sure you don’t have a slow Internet speed, and if that’s the case, take the necessary measures to increase it.
Check for pending updates and install them if any are available.
Run the DISM commands and the SFC scan (sfc /scannow) in an elevated Command Prompt.
If the 0x80004004 error persists, head to the fixes listed next.
1. Run the critical services
Press Windows + S to open Search, type Services, and click on the relevant result.
Ensure the Microsoft Defender Antivirus Service and the Microsoft Defender Antivirus Network Inspection Service are running.
If not, double-click on the concerned service to open its Properties, navigate to the Dependencies tab, and check the services it depends on.
Finally, right-click on the service(s) you identified earlier, and select Start from the context menu.
2. Completely uninstall third-party antivirus
Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
Select the installed third-party antivirus, and click Uninstall.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Now, press Windows + E to open File Explorer, navigate the following paths, and delete any files/folders for the antivirus you just removed:C:\Program FilesC:\ProgramData
3. Rename the Software Distribution folder
Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
Now, paste the following commands one at a time and hit Enter after each:net stop wuauservnet stop cryptSvcnet stop bitsnet stop msiserverRen C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.oldRen C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.oldnet start wuauservnet start cryptSvcnet start bitsnet start msiserver
This should fix the Windows Defender error 0x80004004, and you should now be able to install the latest virus and spyware definition updates.
4. Perform an in-place upgrade
Go to Microsoft’s official website, choose the correct version, and click Download to get the Windows 11 ISO file. You can also download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade on the previous iteration.
Choose the product language from the dropdown menu, and click Confirm.
Click on the provided link to start the download.
Once the download is complete, double-click on the ISO file, and select Open in the confirmation prompt.
Run the setup.exe file.
Click on Next to proceed.
Now, click Accept to agree to Microsoft’s license terms.
Ensure the setup reads Keep personal files and apps and click on Install to start the process.
An in-place upgrade can fix a range of issues, including the 0x80004004 error in Windows Defender, and you wouldn’t lose the stored files or installed apps. However, the process may take a few hours to complete.
Before you go, check the best PC repair tools and get one to avoid running into similar errors.
Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.
Keeping your drivers up to date is crucial if you want your PC to run without any issues. Many users are wondering how to install ASUS drivers on Windows 11, and this guide will show them how to do it properly.
Installing drives doesn’t have to be a complicated process, and there are a couple of methods you can use to update your drivers on Windows 11.
This guide will show you the quickest and fastest ways to do that, so be sure to follow our instructions carefully.
Is Windows 11 compatible with ASUS?
Yes, Windows 11 is compatible with most ASUS devices and hardware. If you’re using an ASUS laptop, be sure to check if your hardware fully meets the requirements.
As for other hardware, almost all newer hardware will work without any issues, however, some compatibility issues might be expected from older hardware.
How do I Install ASUS drivers on Windows 11?
1. Use Device Manager
Press Windows key + X and choose Device Manager from the list.
Now locate the missing driver, right-click it, and select Update driver.
You’ll be presented with two options. Select Search automatically for drivers.
Wait while Windows tried to find and download the best driver for your device.
Although this is the simplest way to do it, it’s not always the most reliable. Sometimes with this method, you won’t get the latest drivers, or you won’t find any drivers at all.
Luckily, there’s a more advanced solution that you can use.
On the input field on the left, enter your product name or select the product category. Once you find your model, select Driver & Utility from the right side.
Depending on the selected device, you might have to select the correct BIOS model for it. After that, select the operating system that you’re using.
A list of available drivers will now appear. Locate the desired driver and click the Download button next to it.
Wait for the driver to download.
Once it’s downloaded, double-click the setup file and follow the instructions to install the driver.
Keep in mind that you need to repeat these steps for all drivers that you want to install.
This method is a bit more complex since you need to know the exact model of the device that you want to upgrade. However, by using it you’ll always get the latest ASUS ROG drivers or any other driver for your PC.
3. Update the drivers with a specialized tool
There is specialized software you can use to entirely scan the system and detect missing drivers in your Windows 11 device, thus installing the manufacturer’s official drivers with one click.
4. Use the MyASUS app
NOTE
This method is useful if you have an ASUS laptop or notebook. If you have individual ASUS hardware, this method might not work for you.
Press Windows key + S and enter store. Select Microsoft Store from the list.
Search for MyASUS and select MyASUS from the list of results.
Click the Get button in the top right corner and wait for the software to download.
Once the software is downloaded, click Open.
Select the desired option. We chose Explore with limited features, however, you might want to use the other one and create an ASUS account if this one isn’t working for you.
Next, go to Customer Support in the left pane.
In the right pane, you should see available BIOS and driver updates. Locate the driver you want to update and click the download arrow and the software will do the rest.
While ASUS drivers download utility is useful, it might not work properly if you don’t have an ASUS laptop or notebook.
As you can see, downloading and installing ASUS drivers is simpler than you think. While using the Device Manager is the most straightforward solution, it doesn’t always give the best results.
For a complete overview of MyASUS features and how to make the most of them, check out How to Use MyASUS.
A blue screen of death (BSOD) is a common error screen on Microsoft Windows. Each BSOD error is unique, and the text message may vary depending on the cause of the crash. For instance, a section of users has been getting the Amdkmpfd.sys BSOD error.
One thing that stands out from most of these cases is that they all have an AMD graphics card. BSODs can occur for many reasons, including hardware failure or memory corruption. That being said, let’s get to the root cause of this error and possible solutions.
Why am I getting the Amdkmpfd.sys BSOD error?
If you’re wondering what triggered the Amdkmpfd.sys BSOD error, below are some possible causes:
Faulty hardware – Sometimes, installing new hardware can cause the BSOD, especially if the new hardware is incompatible with existing programs.
Corrupt software drivers – Downloading drivers from unofficial sites could have you end up with corrupt drivers that cause this error message to appear when you boot up your computer.
Driver conflicts – Driver conflicts are common causes of this error message, especially if you have recently updated or reinstalled one of your software programs.
Fast startup – While most users enable the fast startup feature to speed up their PCs, it can also bring up issues such as BSOD errors.
Overheating – Another reason why you may get the Amdkmpfd.sys BSOD error is because your computer has been overheating for quite some time.
How can I fix the Amdkmpfd.sys BSOD error?
Try the following simple tips before moving to the more complex solutions:
Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar, and click Open.
Click on System and Security.
Next, select Power Options.
Click on Choose what the power buttons do from the list of options on the left.
Press on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
Uncheck the Turn on fast startup box and then click on Save changes.
Although Fast startup allows your PC to start up much faster, especially if you were experiencing a slow boot, it has been known to cause problems.
This is because when you shut down your computer, it goes through a series of steps to make sure all your data is safely written to the hard drive.
Fast startup lets you bypass those steps, so when you start up again, there’s no waiting for your PC to load everything back into memory again. The downside is that if something goes wrong during startup Windows won’t be able to tell, at which point it’ll throw a BSOD error.
2. Update your graphics driver
Click on the Windows button, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your AMD graphics card and select Update driver.
Select Search automatically for drivers.
While this method usually works well, sometimes Windows keeps installing old or wrong AMD drivers. In such a case, you need an alternative way to update your drivers. A driver updater tool should suffice, given how effective they are.
Our top choice for this job has to be Outbyte Driver Updater because it has been tried and tested as the perfect automatic tool.
Not only does it scan and detect your PC for missing/old/corrupt drivers, but it also downloads and installs them.
Outbyte Driver Updater
Take care of any system flaws on your PC using this fully effective driver management tool.
Click on the Search icon, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your AMD graphics card and select Uninstall device.
Confirm uninstallation in the next dialog box.
Restart your PC, and the drivers will automatically be reinstalled.
Some users reported a side effect after reinstalling the driver: the FPS drastically dropped in some of their games. If you have experienced the same issue, check out our article on how to deal with FPS drops and stuttering.
And that’s how to resolve the Amdkmpfd.sys BSOD error. Sometimes, not even the solutions listed above can save you if your AMD graphics card has become obsolete. You’ll have no choice but to upgrade to a new GPU.
Let us know what solution has resolved this issue in the comment section below.
What are the odds that using Bluetooth headphones on your PC could have you to end up with a BSoD error? Well, that is the latest conundrum that Windows users face, dubbed btha2dp.sys error.
The most common issue you’ll likely encounter with the feature is Bluetooth not working. However, a BSoD error implies the issue is serious, as most users reported their PCs immediately restarted. Let’s examine the causes and how to fix it, shall we?
What causes the btha2dp.sys BSoD error?
The btha2dp.sys file is used to support Bluetooth devices and headset devices. If your computer fails to load this file during start-up, it can cause it to crash with a BSoD error message.
The most common causes for this type of error include:
Virus infection – Viruses and malware can infect your system files and corrupt them, which causes the BSoD error.
Overheating – Overheating components inside your PC, such as the CPU or GPU, causes BSoD errors.
Corrupt system files – If you suspect that there are corrupted system files in your PC, it is very likely that this problem could be caused by a hardware issue.
Incompatible software – Sometimes, certain applications can interfere with other programs’ functionality. Security software is notorious for this behavior and tends to cause system crashes along with other errors like BSoDs.
How do I fix the btha2dp.sys BSoD error?
A few basic troubleshooting steps that could save the day include:
Unpair and repair the Bluetooth device. This involves you forgetting the device from your PC and then repairing it.
Check whether your firewall or antivirus is blocking the connection and disable it. Sometimes, the problem is your antivirus, and you may have to find an alternative that performs similar functions.
Run the DISM and SFC scans to check for any corrupted system files.
1. Check for Windows updates
Hit the Start Menu icon and click on Settings.
Select Windows Update and click on Check for updates.
Click the Run option for the Windows Update troubleshooter.
3. Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter
Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.
Click on System and select Troubleshoot.
Navigate to Other troubleshooters.
Click the Run option for the Bluetooth troubleshooter.
4. Update your Bluetooth driver
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 the updates once more.
A section of users admitted to ending up with the wrong drivers while using Device Manager to update their drivers. An alternative option would be to download them straight from the manufacturer.
Better yet, why not let a third-party tool do all the heavy lifting? Outbyte Driver Updater is capable of scanning for any outdated or corrupt drivers and then searching from its wide database. It will then replace them with the correct versions and does all this automatically.
Outbyte Driver Updater
Fix all driver-related impediments and find the newest updates with Outbyte Driver Updater for better performance.
Click on the Start Menu icon, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
Navigate to your Bluetooth device, right-click, and select Uninstall device.
Check the Delete the driver software for this device box, and click Uninstall.
Restart your PC, and the driver will automatically reinstall.
6. Rollback previous Bluetooth drivers
Press the Windows Search icon, type Device Manager, and click Open.
Right-click on your Bluetooth device and select Properties.
Click on the Driver tab, then click the Roll Back Driver button.
Select a reason for rolling back the driver.
Restart your PC.
Hopefully, you’ve been able to address the btha2dp.sys BSoD error. However, if that is not the case, we highly recommend installing BSoD fixer tools. It can be tedious to keep trying solution after solution when encountering such errors.
Luckily, these tools are comprehensive in their scans and can repair many issues. Elsewhere, you may also come across the Tcpip.sys BSoD error or the INSUFFICIENT_SYSTEM_MAP_REGS error, so don’t hesitate to check out our article for detailed fixes.
Many of our readers report an error saying The program can’t start because MFC140U.DLL is missing from their computers when opening an app. It occurs when the needed DLL file can’t be accessed for some reason. However, we’ll show you how to fix the error as we go further into the article.
Aside from the mfc140u.dll not found error, there are other DLL file missing errors you can run into on Windows 11.
Why is mfc140u.all not found?
If a mfc140u.dll file required for running a program is missing from your PC, you won’t be able to run it which results in an error message. Some factors that can cause this are:
Corrupt system files – If the mfc140u.dll file the program wants to access is corrupt, it can become inaccessible or unavailable when invoked. It can be due to the impact of corrupt system files that have infected it, causing its functionality to be suppressed.
Interference from other apps – Most DLL file missing error appears due to a program on your PC overwriting the file and rendering it unusable. It makes it impossible for other programs to fetch the file, causing them to stop working.
Viruses and malware – Users may run into the mfc140u.dll not found on Windows 11 due to malware or virus deleting the DLL files.
Fortunately, there are some troubleshooting steps to resolve the error and get your apps running again.
What can I do if mfc140u.dll is not found?
Before trying any advanced troubleshooting steps, go through the following:
Left-click the Start button, type command prompt, and click Run as administrator.
Click Yes on the User Account Control window.
Type the following and press Enter, then Wait for Windows to register the DLL: regsvr32 MFC140U.DLL
Restart your PC.
Registering the mfc140u.dll file will revalidate the file and fix the error on your computer. It helps the system rewrite the file, making it visible to the needed services.
Microsoft news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!
Bing Image Creator officially ships in Creative mode
Microsoft’s AI image generation tool, Bing Image Creator, has launched in Creative mode, allowing users who have been given access to generate image using AI, by supplying a description of the desired image. It’s not unlimited use, however, as users are given a set amount of weekly credits, but can also purchase more using Microsoft Rewards points.
CMA provisionally concludes Activision Blizzard deal will not harm competition, though investigation continues
WhatsApp rolls out new Windows client with improved group calling features
WhatsApp has introduced a new app for Windows, with a focus on improving the group calling experience. The app allows for 8 people to be in a video call at the same time, and audio calls with up to 32 people, whilst offering end-to-end encrypted communication.
Microsoft announces developer toolkit that will measure Xbox energy consumption
The Windows 11 scaling issue on High DPI Monitors happens when the system display struggles to resolve the size of the screen content. It can cause the content to be blurry or distorted.
If the monitor or device you’re using doesn’t respond to scaling or has scaling issues, it can be due to many factors. Some notable ones are:
Unsupported High Definition displays – Some apps and external monitors don’t support features like High DPI scaling by default. So, you may not be able to adjust its display quality or have it adjust to the system settings.
Custom scaling – Whereas custom scaling allows you to tailor the display to your needs, it doesn’t always work as it should.
Moving app windows between monitors using different display resolutions – The scaling issue may occur if you’re switching between monitors using varying display resolutions. It causes problems with the scaling because the display settings that apply to one, won’t apply to the other.
Using separate display configurations on the PC – There are times when you use different screen features like docking and undocking configuration on the same system, which can cause scaling issues as these features have different screen sizes and resolutions.
Faulty Graphics drivers – When your drivers are outdated, they won’t be able to access patches for fixing bugs, causing them to malfunction.
These factors may vary on different devices. Nonetheless, you can fix the issue by troubleshooting some display settings on your PC.
How can I fix scaling issues on Windows 11 high DPI monitors?
If you can’t get around the problem, proceed with the solutions below:
1. Adjust the DPI Scaling feature for individual app
Left-click the Start button, find the app whose DPI settings you want to change, right-click on it, then select Open file location from the drop-down menu.
Right-click the application’s shortcut on the left pane and select Properties from the context menu.
Go to the Compatibility tab and click Change high DPI settings.
Check the box for Override high DPI scaling behavior. Scaling performed by, then select System (Enhanced) from the drop-down menu below.
Click OK to save the changes.
Restate the app and check if the issue persists.
The above steps will change the DPI settings for the specific app and resolve any scaling issues you experience while running it.
2. Tweak Windows Display settings
Press the Windows + I to open the Windows Settings app.
Click on System from the left pane, then select the Display option from the right.
Go to the Scale and Layout tab, click the arrow button after Scale, and input the scaling percentage you want, then check the box against it.
If the Signout prompt appears, click it to sign out of your system, then sign in.
Restart your PC.
Using the Custom scaling feature allows you to modify the scaling percentage you want to achieve your display resolution.
Press the Windows + I to open the Windows Settings app.
Click on System from the left pane, then select the Display option from the right.
Click the arrow button for Graphics.
Go to the app whose graphics settings you want to change and click the Options button.
Tick the radio button for High performance and click the Save button.
Close the Settings app and check if the issue persists.
The High-performance option in the Graphics settings helps the system adjust to High DPI scaling.
7. Update Windows OS
Press the Windows + I to open the Windows Settings app.
Click the Windows Update category and click on Check for Updates. Wait for the Windows update result and click on Install Update if a Windows update is available.
Restart your PC.
Updating the Windows OS will install new updates and patches for fixing bugs affecting your display and resolving scaling issues.
If Fortnite is using 100% of your CPU, you’re not alone. High CPU usage can be caused by graphics settings, outdated drivers, background apps, or even overheating.
Disabling multithreaded rendering, enabling performance mode, and updating your drivers can help. Find step by step instructions for these and more tried and tested solutions below.
What can I do to fix high CPU usage on Fortnite?
1. Disable background apps
Press the Windows + I key to open the Settings app.
Select Apps and click on Installed apps.
Choose the app, then click the three dots, and select Advanced options.
Then, tap the drop-down button for Background app permissions and click on Never.
Now, repeat the same process for other apps.
Disabling apps from running in the background prevents them from contending with Fortnite for system resources.
Right-click the Start button, then select the Device Manager from the drop-down.
Expand the Display adapter entry, right-click on the device driver, then select Update driver from the drop-down menu.
Click on Search automatically for the updated driver software option.
Restart your PC.
Updating the graphics drivers will fix bugs and corrupt graphics cards affecting the Fortnite game on your computer. Read about updating graphics drivers on Windows 11 if you have any issues.
3. Verify Fortnite game files
Left-click the Start button, type Epic Games Launcher, then click on it to open the app.
Select Library.
Click on the 3-dot icon to open Menu, and select Manage from the drop-down.
Click the Verify button on the Verify Files tab. After the verification, follow the on-screen prompt.
Verifying game files check if the game files are missing or corrupt.
Left-click the Start button, type Epic Games Launcher, then click on it to open the app.
Click on the Profile icon in the top-right corner. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.
Click on the Install Now button, then tap on Yes if the UAC confirmation pops up.
After the update, launch Fortnite and check if the high CPU usage persists.
Installing the latest updates for Epic Games Launcher will resolve bugs affecting its games and add new features to improve performance.
5. Perform a clean boot
Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
In the System Configuration window, click on the Services tab.
Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
Go to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
In Task Manager, disable all startup items by selecting each one and clicking Disable.
Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
Restart your PC.
Now your PC will boot only with the absolute necessary apps. Try running Fortnite and see if the high CPU usage persists. If it doesn’t your culprit is most likely another app that’s interfering with Fortnite.
Re-enable apps one by one and keep an eye on CPU usage to identify the faulty one.
What causes high CPU usage on Fortnite?
Fortnite’s high CPU usage may occur due to many factors. Some are:
Outdated graphics cards– It is because your system can’t access updates to fix the bugs impeding the graphics device from functioning correctly, causing it to use more system resources than needed for the game.
Game requirements – Fortnite has system requirements that determine the specifications of devices that can play the game. So, you can experience Fortnite’s high CPU usage and low GPU usage if your PC can’t run the game.
Interference from other running apps – Your game performance can be affected by the activities of other apps. When you have many apps running simultaneously, it doesn’t give enough system resources to Fortnite, causing high CPU usage.
Genshin Impact is a popular game that lets you play different characters in an open world. Unfortunately, the game requires a bit of a powerful CPU in order for you to run it. However, there are several users that have reported that they are facing Genshin Impact’s high CPU usage problem.
Well, there are many reasons for triggering the Genshin Impact high CPU usage problem. In this guide, we will show you how to quickly fix this issue and play Genshin Impact without any problems. So let us get right into it.
What is causing Genshin Impact’s high CPU usage issue?
Here are a few reasons we have found out the most common reasons why the Genshin Impact high CPU usage is triggered.
Your PC does not meet the min requirements: Chances are that the PC that you are running the Genshin Impact game on does not meet the min system requirements, because of which the PC is struggling to run the game.
There are multiple background tasks: If you have a bunch of background tasks running then not only this game but you will also come across high CPU usage issues with other apps.
Fullscreen optimizations aren’t working: Often, the fullscreen optimizations don’t work well with everyone, which could be the reason that is triggering the issue.
The Power Plan isn’t correct: You might have selected the power plan that stresses more on saving the battery.
How can I fix the Genshin Impact high CPU usage issue?
1. Stop overclocking your PC
If you are using overclocking software, you should ensure that your PC isn’t being overclocked. While overclocking pushes your PC to improve the performance of resource-intensive apps and games such as Genshin Impact, it could also lead to high CPU usage.
Disable any overclocking application you have on your PC and run the game to see if this resolves the Genshin Impact high CPU usage issue.
2. Update the GPU driver
Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
Open Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapter section.
Open your GPU driver.
Switch to the Driver tab.
Click on the Update driver option.
Select Search automatically for drivers option.
Follow the on-screen prompts to update the driver.
You can update the driver on your PC using the above method from the Device Manager. But this method isn’t feasible when you have to update multiple drivers.
In such a case, we suggest you rely on a dedicated driver updater called Outbyte Driver Updater. With the tool, you can easily update multiple drivers, perform scheduled driver scans, create driver backups, and much more.
Outbyte Driver Updater
Simplify the updating process and let Outbyte Driver Updater locate the latest driver options in no time.
When you select the high performance battery plan, you are making sure that all the resources are optimally utilized to run the Genshin Impact game, reducing the high CPU usage issue.
5. Change in-game graphics settings
Launch the Genshin Impact game.
Click on Settings.
Select Graphics.
Tweak the below settings as mentioned:
Graphics Quality: Low
Display Mode: Fullscreen or the native resolution
FPS: 60
V-Sync: Open
Render Resolution: 1.1 or 0.8
Shadow Quality: Low
Visual Effects: Low
SFX Quality: Low
Overall Settings: Low
Anti-Aliasing: SMAA
Motion Blur: Close
The above settings will help you run the game using meager resources allowing the CPU to have some pause and, in turn, get rid of the high CPU usage issue.
6. Disable fullscreen optimizations
Right-click on the Genshin Impact desktop icon.
Select Properties.
Switch to the Compatibility tab.
Check the Disable fullscreen optimization option.
Click Apply and OK.
Restart your PC.
Sometimes the fullscreen optimization may not improve the gameplay but instead worsen it for you and result in high CPU usage, which could also happen with the Genshin Impact game. Try disabling the fullscreen optimizations and check whether this resolves the issue.
7. Close all unnecessary background tasks
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc buttons to open the Task Manager.
Switch to the Processes tab.
Select the unwanted processes, one by one, and hit the End task button at the top.
You should also ensure that not many background tasks or processes are running, as this will impact gaming performance and increase CPU usage.
That is it from us in this guide. You could also try installing the latest Windows update or updating the game to fix the issue, as this Genshin Impact high CPU usage issue could be because of a bug.
Well, the error code 0x80240004 can appear to you when you try to download an app from the Microsoft Store or even when you try to update your Windows PC. In the former’s case, it prevents you from downloading an app, and in the latter’s case, you won’t be able to install necessary updates.
Thankfully in this guide, we will show you a bunch of solutions that will help fix the error code 0x80240004 associated with the Microsoft Store or the Windows update. So let us get right into the guide.
Why am I getting error code 0x80240004?
Before heading over to the solutions, it is better to understand the reasons triggering the error code 0x80240004 on your PC.
Your PC is infected with the virus: A virus or malware attack can not only cause your PC to get slow, but it can also affect your system’s performance.
Incorrect date and time: If the time zone has been changed, by you or a third-party app, then it could cause multiple issues on your PC.
Windows update service isn’t running: For Windows updates to get installed, you have to ensure that the associated service is running.
Let us take a look at the solutions and resolve this issue.
How can I fix the error 0x80240004?
1. Run the Windows update/Windows Store troubleshooter
Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
Click on Troubleshoot.
Select Other troubleshooters.
Click on the Run button next to Windows Update.
Follow the on-screen prompt to start the troubleshooting process.
Apply the prompted fixes.
Click on the Run button next to Windows Store Apps.
Apply the prompted fixes.
Restart your PC and check if this resolves the issue or not.
Your Windows PC offers a bunch of troubleshooters that can help you resolve various issues on your PC. A couple of which are the Windows update and Windows Store troubleshooters that fix various petty issues triggering the error 0x80240004.
2. Check if necessary services are running
Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
Type services.msc and press Enter.
Locate one by one, and check if the below services are running.
BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service)
Cryptographic
Windows Installer
Windows Update Services
It would be best if you made sure that the services mentioned above are running and aren’t stopped. If these are stopped, press the Start button and check whether this fixes the 0x80240004 error.
Click on Time Zone drop-down menu and choose your time zone.
Scroll down and click the Sync now button.
Incorrect date and time can also cause multiple issues on your PC, including the error 0x80240004 with the Microsoft Store or Windows update. Set the correct time zone and the date and see if this resolves the issue.
4. Perform a virus scan
Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
Open Windows Security.
Click on Virus & threat protection.
Click on Quick Scan.
Wait for the scan to complete.
Apply the prompted fixes.
You can also click on Scan options and select Full scan for a deep scan.
Restart your PC.
You should always make sure that your PC is protected, and for that, you should perform regular scans. Unfortunately, however, Windows Security isn’t that effective when it comes to tackling modern viruses or malware.
Click on the Reset PC button for the Reset this PC option.
Select the Keep my files option.
Follow the prompts.
Restart your PC.
If nothing works, then you should probably resort to resetting your PC. When you reset your PC, you can easily take your PC back to a state where everything was usually working, and the error 0x80240004 wasn’t troubling you.
That is it from us in this guide. If you are getting Windows update error 0x800f0845, you can check out our guide and resolve the problem.
For users coming across the update error 0xFFFFFFFF, they should apply the solutions mentioned in our guide to fix the problem.
Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions resolved the error code 0x80240004 on your PC.
This error happens when a user is trying to send or receive an email via Outlook or when they are trying to download the offline address book.
In this guide, we will give you many solutions to help you resolve the MS Outlook error code 0x80190194. We will also list down the reasons that could trigger this issue. So, let us get right into it.
What is causing MS Outlook error 0x80190194?
We researched the internet and found a bunch of solutions that are responsible for the Outlook 0x80190194 error.
Corrupt Outlook folder: If your Outlook email client’s AppData folder goes corrupt, you will come across the error 0x80190194.
Corrupt offline address book: Chances are that the Offline Address Book (OAB) you are trying to download is partially corrupt.
Corrupt Outlook profile: This issue, apart from being related to the address book, is also associated with the corrupt Outlook profile.
Problematic Outlook cache files: Also, corrupt cache files can give rise to multiple issues on your PC.
Now, let us look at the solutions that will help you resolve Outlook error 0x80190194.
How can I fix the Outlook 0x80190194 error?
1. Rename the Outlook folder
Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
Type %appdata% and press Enter.
Locate the Roaming folder.
Open the Microsoft folder.
Look for an entry named Outlook.
Rename the Outlook entry to Outlook.old. Unfortunately, this will force your system to create the Outlook folder from scratch.
Restart your PC.
You should be able to fix the Outlook error 0x80190194 after renaming the Outlook folder, as shown above.
2. Clear the contents of the OAB folder
Close the Outlook program if it is running.
Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
Type %localappdata% and press Enter.
Click on Microsoft.
Open the Outlook folder.
Open the Offline Address Book folder.
Select all files inside the folder.
Delete all files.
Restart your PC and check if this fixes the issue or not.
Follow the on-screen instructions and click Finish.
Return to the Mail dialogue box and select Always use this profile.
Click Apply.
Restart your PC.
If nothing works, it might be that your Outlook profile is having some issue or is corrupt. Because of this, you are getting the Outlook error 0x80190194.
Create a new Outlook profile and download the Offline Address Book to see if this fixes the issue.
Speaking of address books, we have a great guide on how to update the global address list, so you might want to check it out.
That is it from us in this guide. We have a guide that explains some tips to help you fix the slow speed of Outlook email clients.
Some Outlook 2016 users have reported that for them the client crashes as soon as they try to open it. This can be fixed by applying the solutions mentioned in our guide.
If you are getting the Outlook error code 0x8004011c, you should check out our guide that gives a bunch of solutions to fix the error.
If you encountered error code 0x80070006 while updating or installing Windows 10, this guide could help!
We will discuss some available troubleshooting methods to eliminate the error in no time. Let’s get started!
What is error 0x80070006?
Error code 0x80070006 is a Windows error that indicates an issue with Windows Update or the Windows Store. For example, this error appears when an update or installation has failed due to a permissions issue.
While updating, Windows can’t access specific files or folders needed for an update or installation; you can encounter this error. This happens if the user account you are using does not have the necessary permissions to access the files or folders in question.
What causes the Windows installation error 0x80070006?
There are several reasons for this update error: some of the common ones are mentioned here:
Corrupted system files or registry entries – Damaged system files and registry entries could cause various issues, including this error. You need to repair system files to fix it.
Malware infection – If your PC is infected with viruses or malware, your computer might not be able to perform simple tasks, such as updating Windows. You need to run a deep scan using reliable anti-malware software.
Outdated device drivers – Device drivers are important for the proper functioning of your computer. If they are outdated or incompatible, your computer might not work correctly and throw you errors like these. You must update device drivers to the latest version to avoid these issues.
System resources overloaded – If your CPU, RAM, or other system components are overloaded or working at full capacity, you might face this error.
Misconfigured system settings – Incorrect system configurations may cause many issues, including this update error.
Incomplete updates – If while updating your Windows, your computer was interrupted or if the update was not completely installed, it could cause this issue.
What can I do to fix the Windows installation error 0x80070006?
Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:
Restart your computer.
Check your internet connection.
1. Run the troubleshooter
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Go to Update & Security.
Click Troubleshoot from the left pane, and select Additional troubleshooters.
Locate Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
2. Install pending updates
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Go to Update & Security.
Click Check for updates.
If available, click Download and install.
Please wait a few minutes and let it download and install the updates. Restart when prompted.
3. Run a malware scan
Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go toUpdate & Security.
From the left pane, select Windows Security.
Go to Virus & threat protection, and click Scan options.
Select Full scan and click Scan now.
Now Windows Security will scan your computer for infection. If found, delete the malicious files when prompted.
Go to This PC, then C Drive, right-click it, and select Properties.
Switch to the Tools tab, under Error checking, and click Check.
Now click Scan this drive.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.
5. Use the Command Prompt
5.1 Run SFC and DISM commands
Go to the Search bar, type Command Prompt, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands one by one to repair the system file and Windows image, and press Enter after every command: sfc/scannowDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your computer after the command is executed.
5.2 Reset the Windows Update components
Open Command Prompt with admin rights.
Copy and paste the following commands one by one to stop the BITS, Cryptographic, Windows Update, and MSI Installer; press Enter after every command: net stop bitsnet stop wuauservnet stop appidsvcnet stop cryptsvc
Now to delete qmgr*. dat files, type the following command and press Enter: Del “%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\\Application Data\\Microsoft\\Network\\Downloader\\qmgr*.dat”
Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command to execute it: regsvr32.exe atl.dllregsvr32.exe urlmon.dllregsvr32.exe mshtml.dllregsvr32.exe shdocvw.dllregsvr32.exe browseui.dllregsvr32.exe jscript.dllregsvr32.exe vbscript.dllregsvr32.exe scrrun.dllregsvr32.exe msxml.dllregsvr32.exe msxml3.dllregsvr32.exe msxml6.dllregsvr32.exe actxprxy.dllregsvr32.exe softpub.dllregsvr32.exe wintrust.dllregsvr32.exe dssenh.dllregsvr32.exe rsaenh.dllregsvr32.exe gpkcsp.dllregsvr32.exe sccbase.dllregsvr32.exe slbcsp.dllregsvr32.exe cryptdlg.dllregsvr32.exe oleaut32.dllregsvr32.exe ole32.dllregsvr32.exe shell32.dllregsvr32.exe initpki.dllregsvr32.exe wuapi.dllregsvr32.exe wuaueng.dllregsvr32.exe wuaueng1.dllregsvr32.exe wucltui.dllregsvr32.exe wups.dllregsvr32.exe wups2.dllregsvr32.exe wuweb.dllregsvr32.exe qmgr.dllregsvr32.exe qmgrprxy.dllregsvr32.exe wucltux.dllregsvr32.exe muweb.dllregsvr32.exe wuwebv.dll
To reset Winsock, type the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: netsh winsock resetnetsh winhttp reset proxy
Now to restart the services that we stopped, copy and paste the following commands and press Enter after every command: net start bitsnet start wuauservnet start appidsvcnet start cryptsvc
Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.
6. Use System Restore
Go to the Search bar, type Control Panel, and click Open.
For View by select Large icons, click Recovery.
Now click Open System Restore.
On the System Restore window, click Next.
Select the restore point from the list and click Next.
Click Finish to complete the process.
7. Reset this PC
Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go toUpdate & Security.
Click Recovery from the left pane; under Reset this PC, click Get Started.
Select Keep my files.
Choose Clouddownload.
On the Additional Settings page, select Next.
Click Reset.
So, these are methods to fix the Windows installation or update error 0x80070006 on your computer. If you have any questions about this error code, please feel free to mention them in the comments section below.
This article is the total ChatGPT 4 vs Google Bard comparison. But it is important to have some context before going into the meat of it.
Regarding communication, two things come to mind – technology and art. On the one hand, we have advanced technologies like ChatGPT that can generate human-like text, answer questions and interact with people in real-time.
On the other hand, we have the traditional art form of storytelling, where bards use their words and voice to captivate an audience and convey messages. Google classes Google Bard as less of an information finder and more of ideas, email, and perhaps poetry.
While ChatGPT 4 and Bard share the common goal of effective communication, they approach it differently. So, we will help you navigate key elements by analyzing and contrasting the two services in this guide.
What is ChatGPT 4?
This should not be mistaken for the last free version, ChatGPT 3. This is the paid version of OpenAI’s language model, built on a multi-modal model. it is more creative, reliable, faster, and accurate than its predecessor.
It is specifically designed for natural language processing (NLP) tasks such as text completion, summarization, and translation and has demonstrated impressive results on a wide range of NLP benchmarks.
The Language model is trained on a diverse range of text data sources, including web pages, books, and articles, to capture the nuances and complexities of natural language. Its applications include chatbots, customer service systems, and personal assistants.
What is Google Bard?
Google Bard is a similar AI language model powered by LaMDA (the Language Model for Dialogue Applications).
Google fondly refers to it as the conversational AI service, and it combines an intelligent language model with the information it draws from Google’s search engine to provide comprehensive, natural responses.
Before we go into details in this ChatGPT vs Bard comparison, note that Google Bard is very much in an experimental stage. It is now only available to people in the US and UK and to a very limited subset of people in these regions.
ChatGPT is also evolving but, in many aspects, may be ahead of the Google competitor. With that in mind, let us explore these two services in greater detail.
ChatGPT vs Bard: How do they stack up against each other
1. Communication methods
The ChatGPT AI language model uses natural language processing to generate text similar to human-generated text. ChatGPT’s ability to generate text is based on its massive dataset, which has been trained on various texts, such as books, articles, and online conversations.
Google Bard, on the other hand, is an AI model that generates ideas and poetry based on a given prompt. Google Bard uses deep learning techniques and rule-based systems to generate responses similar to human thinking.
However, both differ in their approach. ChatGPT generates text algorithmically, while Google Bard uses more specific rules to generate replies. Also, ChatGPT can generate text quickly and consistently, while Google Bard takes time to generate responses intended to be both creative and coherent.
2. Accuracy and authenticity
ChatGPT 4 builds on its predecessor GPT 3, and has a broadened dataset that makes it even more accurate. Because it works with a multi-modal large language model, it can receive queries in text and imagery, improving its authenticity.
On the other hand, Google Bard is trained on Infiniset and specifically designed for conversations and dialogue intended to be similar to responses written by humans.
So, as you may imagine, both services differ in accuracy and authenticity regarding text generation.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT can generate unbiased and objective text, as personal biases or interpretations do not influence it as much. However, this can also result in text that lacks the nuance and emotional depth of human communication.
On the other hand, Google Bard is specifically designed to create emotionally resonant responses. Still, it may be limited in generating other text types, requiring a more objective approach.
3. Scalability and efficiency
This is an important consideration when discussing AI models that generate text, as it affects the speed of text generation.
The OpenAI service is created to be very scalable. It can generate a massive amount of text quite efficiently and fast and can be trained on massive datasets of texts to improve its performance through time.
This is evident in its evolution to the current GPT 4, an upgrade on different versions that have proven more capable and robust.
Also, you can fine-tune it for specific tasks, allowing it to generate more accurate and relevant texts aimed at specific applications. Therefore, it becomes an ideal choice for applications requiring large text volumes, such as content creation or customer service.
ChatGPT 4 wins in this parameter since Google Bard is less scalable due to its specialized focus on producing ideas and poetry. You may expect less scalability regarding other text types. It also seems like it will require more time and resources to fine-tune it for specific applications.
Regarding efficiency, we generally consider ChatGPT 4 more efficient than Google Bard. Its speed makes it an ideal option for applications needing real-time text generation. Google Bard will take longer since it focuses on producing creative and engaging replies.
4. Flexibility and adaptability
This is a very interesting criterion for these two AI services. ChatGPT 4 has a massive knowledge base, and even though this is upgraded from GPT 3, it is still somewhat limited in information to what is contained in this database. However, you would find this sufficient in most cases because of its size.
The OpenAI service is also extremely flexible and adaptable if you need to produce large content; however, it falls short for scenarios outside its knowledge base.
In such a situation, you may find the Google service more adaptable. Especially since it can draw on information on the web. This means it is constantly updated as far as there is new information on the web.
However, the choice between the two may depend on the specific context and the intended use of the generated text.
For applications that require highly customized and personalized text generation, ChatGPT may be a better choice. In contrast, Google Bard may be the better option for applications requiring current information in a highly creative and engaging way.
They both allow you to input a prompt. This can be a simple keyword or a developed question. After you receive a reply, you may modify your prompt so that the AI service generates a response more streamlined to your needs.
ChatGPT 4 takes queries a step further but includes the flexibility of picture uploads. This has seriously enhanced the user experience and tilts usability in its favor.
However, the formatting of responses gives Google Bard some edge. Every response comes with a call to action to Google it. This improves trust and means that you can verify the source of information presented to you, an element lacking in the OpenAI service.
The response from Google Bard also looks more aesthetically pleasing with texts that are much easier to scan than ChatGPT’s chunky responses. This is also important for efficiency in cases where you may not have the time to go through a lengthy response or piece of information.
ChatGPT vs Bard: Key differences
ChatGPT 4
Google Bard
Conversation Retention
Able to remember last conversations up to 3000 words
Retention ability is very limited
Coding
Can create complex code, debug code
No coding features
Language
Primarily English, but also proficient in French, Spanish, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Korean, and Japanese
Primarily English
Responses
All responses are from a knowledge base, the Generative Pre-training Transformer 4
Capable of drawing responses from existing internet resources
In conclusion, we must point out that while ChatGPT 4 and Google Bard differ in their approaches and communication methods, they have unique strengths and advantages. You, however, would get great responses and answers from both services.
Also, Bard is in an experimental stage, and you probably will have to join a waiting list to use the service.
The choice between the two may depend on the specific situation or context, such as the size of the audience, the need for speed or personalization, or the desired level of authenticity or creativity. It may also depend on cost since ChatGPT 4 is a 20 USD / month subscription.
By considering the benefits and drawbacks of each, you can better understand how AI technology can work to create an exciting new form of communication.
That’s as much as we will share in this Chatgpt 4 vs Bard comparison. You may want to check out our article on ChatGPT vs Bard.
Lastly, please leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
In the world of artificial intelligence, there’s a battle for supremacy. And it’s between two of the biggest names in technology: Microsoft and Google. You’ve probably heard about Bing, Microsoft’s search engine. But have you heard about Bard? It’s a new AI assistant from Google.
But which is better? Which one should you use? We’re here to help you choose between these two products by comparing them head-to-head.
What is the comparison between Google and Bing?
Google and Bing are two of the most popular search engines in the world. While Google and Bing may seem similar on the surface, they have some key differences that make them unique.
Bing AI and Bard AI are two artificial intelligence systems that can answer questions by searching the internet. But which one is better?
First off, when it comes to popularity, Bing isn’t as well known as Google when it comes to search engines. However, Bing has made some big changes over the past few years, and it seems to be paying off.
By launching the Bing AI chatbot, Microsoft has been able to surpass over 100 million users per day. Although often overlooked, it seems this AI integration has catapulted it to greater heights.
These numbers are probably why Google has officially launched Bard with the hope of reclaiming its position.
The two platforms have different strengths and weaknesses, and this article will look at them in more detail to decide which suits your needs better. Also, check out how Bing compares to ChatGPT 4 or ChatGPT vs Bard in our comprehensive reviews.
What are the similarities between Bing AI and Bard AI?
Similarities
1. Search features
Bing AI and Bard AI have search features that allow users to find the information they need. The search engine can search for specific topics or anything else you might be looking for.
You can easily search via text, images, and video. Both are powered by artificial intelligence, so they can understand and respond to your needs.
Bing uses a set of APIs that allow developers to add machine learning capabilities to their applications. For example, an app can use Bing AI to detect faces in images or videos, identify objects or text in images and videos, or detect emotion in images and videos.
When you look at how far searching on the Internet has come, being able to upload an image and get search results is a step in the right direction.
2. Human factor
While AIs are here to automate tasks, no one wants to read a robotic text that doesn’t have a hint of humanism. Luckily, both have the ability to recognize natural language, which allows them to understand complex questions.
The two types of AI are very similar in how they generate natural coherent text. When looking for answers from both AIs, the responses do not immediately sound machine-like.
3. Content curation
When it comes to AI, you may need to get your facts right because as much as they will provide you with information, it may not always be factual. Both Bing AI and Bard seem to have mastered the art of content curation.
This is important as it will help you gather relevant information and organize it into an easy-to-consume format. If you’re pressed for time and need to give a presentation on, say, a 40-page document, both AIs can easily summarize it for you. And judging from users, so far, so great.
Differences
1. Accuracy
The accuracy level in AI is still a grey area, as it’s usually a hit or a miss. In some areas, both are extremely accurate and in some, it is questionable.
While they both provide users with relevant information, they aren’t always able to give accurate answers due to their limitations as tools that help humans make decisions.
However, Bing chat appears to have a higher accuracy level if we’re keeping count, which we are. Bard has just been launched, so it might take some time to qualify its accuracy, but given its large database, its accuracy level may be unmatched in no time.
2. Privacy
Of course, everyone who puts their information on the Internet is worried about their privacy. First, to get a response as human as possible, the AI must collect some data about you.
It does this by learning about you over time and providing personalized results based on your previous searches and other factors such as location, language preferences, and so on. Bing leverages your Microsoft account and IP address, while Bard uses your Gmail account.
The information gathered is quite different, which plays a role in the overall search results. Needless to say, you need to read the fine print of the privacy and data protection policy before you use either.
And now to the component that sets both AIs apart. Plagiarism, especially when trying to come up with original content, is not only a form of dishonesty but greatly smears the credibility of the source.
Bing seems to have taken this into account. You’ll be happy to know that Bing AI integrates a similarity checker in Microsoft Products such as Office and Excel to enhance originality. Further, when using the chat AI, it will also include citations from sources.
On the other hand, Bard has not employed any of these features, and judging from what users say, the plagiarism levels are too high. Of course, it would be detrimental to rely on AI results fully, but the citation on Bing makes it more reliable.
Conclusion
From the in-depth comparison, the question on everybody’s mind: Is Bing better than Google? Bing AI was a big winner in this battle, outperforming its counterpart by a wide margin. This is not to say that Bing is perfect, as it also has its downsides, such as the daily limit to chat.
Still, Bard is fairly new in the market and is looking to improve. The most important takeaway from this war is that you’re only as good as what you put out. Will Google reclaim its number-one spot?
Is Bing way far ahead for Google to catch up? These are questions that can only be answered in the near future. Whatever the outcome, the user stands to benefit as each tech giant finetunes their products to stay ahead.
Overall, if you have to pick a side between Bing and Bard, or one of their rivals, it just boils down to which side you want to be on.
For now, we can only bask in the impressive features that both AIs have to deliver. Have you tried either of the AIs? What’s your verdict? Share your experience with us in the comment section below.
One of the common errors faced by Microsoft Store users is 0x80070520. It shows up when you try to update or install an app on Windows Store.
This guide will discuss some of the tested methods to fix the problem in no time.
What causes the error code 0x80070520 on Windows?
There are several reasons for this Microsoft Store error: some of the common ones are mentioned here:
Scan for malware infection – If your computer is infected with viruses, Microsoft Store might not work correctly, hence the error. You need to run a deep scan using reliable antivirus software to remove the infection.
Corrupted system files – Damaged or missing system files can cause various issues, including this error. You need to repair system files using Command Prompt.
Misconfigured system settings – If your system settings are incorrect, it can cause a Microsoft Store error. You need to check the power plan and other important system settings to ensure everything is in place.
An issue with thedigital certificate revocation process – Windows checks the revocation status of the digital certificate via the online certificate revocation list (CRL) hosted by the certificate authority (CA) that issued the certificate. If the CRL is not available or cannot be reached due to a network issue or firewall, Windows may fail to verify the certificate and display the error.
What can I do to fix the error code 0x80070520 on Windows?
Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:
Type wsreset.exe and click OK to delete the Windows Store cache.
Once done, Microsoft Store will restart.
5. Remove the SoftwareDistribution folder
Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following commands one by one to stop Windows Update and BITS service, and press Enter after every command: net stop wuauservnet stop bits
Minimize the Command Prompt and navigate to this path: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
Select all the content and click the Delete icon.
Copy and paste the following commands one by one to restart Windows Update and BITS service and press Enter after every command: net start wuauservnet start bits
Restart your computer.
6. ReRegister and Reinstall Windows Store App
6.1 Re-Register the app
Press the Windows key, type PowerShell, and click Run as administrator.
Copy and paste the following command and press Enter to execute it: Get-AppXPackage WindowsStore -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml”}
Once the command is executed, restart your computer.
6.2 Reinstall the app
On the PowerShell window with admin rights, type the following command and press Enter: Get-AppxPackage-AllUsers|Foreach{Add-AppxPackage-DisableDevelopmentMode-Register“$($ _. InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml”}
Once the command is successfully executed, restart your PC.
7. Update the Microsoft Store
Launch Microsoft Store and click on the Library button.
Choose Updates & downloads.
Click Get Updates to download the updates if available.
The process will take some time to complete. Next, restart your computer to confirm the changes.
So, these are some of the methods to fix the error code 0x80070520. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.
If you’re experiencing any trouble with Razer Synapse not detecting Razer devices, do not worry as there are a few things you can try to fix the issue.
The issue of Synapse not detecting devices is mostly reported for Razer mice and keyboards. In this article, we will discuss how to fix the issue seamlessly.
Why is Razer Synapse not detecting Razer devices?
There can be several reasons why Razer Synapse is not detecting razer devices on your PC. Below are the most common reason for the triggers:
The Razer device is not properly connected – This is by far the major reason for this error. You need to make sure that you connect directly to your device and not through a USB hub.
Incompatibility – If you are using a Razer device that is not supported by your Synapse version it can lead to this error. So, you need to ensure that you are using the latest version of the Razer Synapse or check for Razer Synapse-supported devices.
Old corrupted files – If your software is corrupted, it can hinder Razer Synapse from detecting your Razer devices. Some users claim they were able to fix the problem through a clean reinstall.
Outdated drivers – Facing this error may become inevitable if some relative drivers on your PC are outdated or if it contains some discrepancies. Try to update your drivers to the latest version to clear all doubts.
Synapse software is malfunctioning – It is also possible that the Synapse software is currently in an error state. A simple reinstallation should fix the problem.
The above causes are a few of the most known triggers for this error. However, the solutions compiled in this next section for the Razer Synapse not detecting Razer devices error can be applied to fix the issue.
What can I do if Razer Synapse is not detecting Razer devices?
Before trying any of the advanced solutions provided below, you should consider performing the following preliminary checks and see if that fixes the issue:
Make sure you have administrative privileges.
Ensure that you are properly connected to the Internet.
Try plugging your Razer devices into another USB port.
Connect the Razer device to a different computer that has Razer Synapse installed. If it works, that means the problem is with your PC.
After confirming the above checks and if you still require further assistance in fixing the problem, you can proceed to apply the fixes outlined below.
1. Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter
Connect your Razer device to your computer.
Press the Windows key, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command in the text field and press Enter: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
Now, click on Next in the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.
Running the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter has worked for several users. You should try it too. But, if it doesn’t work, try the next fix.
2. Reinstall device drivers
Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run, type devmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Device Manager.
Expand the Mice and other pointing devices category. Right-click on the mouse and click on Uninstall device.
Next, repeat the steps to uninstall your keyboard driver as well after expanding the Keyboard category.
Make sure that you check the box next to Delete device drivers when uninstalling each device.
Restart your PC, and Windows will reinstall the device drivers automatically.
Make sure your PC is properly connected to the Internet after restarting your computer so that your device drivers can be reinstalled to their latest version.
The antivirus programs can prevent your mouse from being detected by your computer or by Razer Synapse.
If you’re running antivirus programs like Windows Defender, you can temporarily disable it from your computer, then try using your mouse again to see if it works.
4. Repair Razer Synapse
Press the Windows key, type control, andclick on Control Panel to open it.
Next, click on Uninstall a program, select Razer Synapse and click on Change.
Click on the Repair button.
Razer Synapse will now scan the app for file corruption and fix them if required.
You can now relaunch Razer Synapse and check if it detects your Razer devices.
5. Reinstall Razer Synapse
Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run command dialog box, type appwiz.cpl in the text field and press Enter.
Select Razer Synapse, click Uninstall and then click Yes to confirm the action.
Once uninstalled, restart your PC.
Finally, download the latest version of Razer Synapse from the official Razer website.
Now, install the app.
Connect your Razer devices to your computer and check if Razer Synapse detects the devices.
And that’s it on how to fix Razer Synapse not detecting Razer devices error. Work your way through any of the steps compiled in this article to know what works for you.
Several of our readers have reported that they can’t find their Xinput9_1_0.dll file on their PC for some reasons they yet do not understand. And as it is, DLL files are just as important as files with an EXE extension.
DLL files are convenient and efficient fiłes to use, but they can be vulnerable to problems. The following are some of the potential causes behind the Xinput9_1_0.dll missing error:
Some important Xinput9_1_0.dll files have been deleted or misplaced – Many times, the accidental deletion or uninstalling of the shared file of another program can lead to missing Xinput9_1_0.dll files on your Windows PC.
Another program has overwritten your Xinput9_1_0.dll file – Another possible reason for this error is that a program on your computer is overwriting a DLL file and rendering it unusable. And once this happens, other programs wouldn’t be able to access it and may, in turn, become missing.
Virus or Malware attacks – It could be malware or virus that is deleting the DLL files, and in this case, running a full-system scan using an effective antivirus should do the trick.
Damaged Windows Registry – One of the major harm that could come to a PC is registry failure. If your PC’s registry is corrupt or damaged, it may trigger the Xinput9_1_0.dll error. You can check how to fix a damaged registry here.
System file corruption – The Xinput9_1_0.dll error could also be triggered by system file corruption. This can result from a power outage when loading intensive software or due to bad sectors on your hard drive.
Now that you know some of the potential reasons behind the Xinput9_1_0.dll missing error, work your way through any of the steps below to fix the problem.
How can I download and fix Xinput9_1_0.dll if it’s missing?
Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks, you should ensure that you perform the following preparatory checks:
Try to restart your computer because the error might be temporary, and simply restarting your PC might clear it up.
If after attempting the above checks, you still require further assistance, you can apply any of the fixes below starting from top to bottom.
1. Download and install Xinput9_1_0.dll manually
NOTE
Although we don’t recommend downloading from third-party websites, this process has been tested by our expert for safety.
Go to DLL-files.com and choose from the 10 different available versions for this file.
After downloading, extract and copy the DLL file to the installation directory of the program where it is missing.
Alternatively, you can move the DLL file either to your System directory, which is located in C:\Windows\System32, or for a 64-bit processor, move it to C:\Windows\SysWOW64\.
Now, restart your PC.
Before downloading, make sure you check the description of each of the files to select the right processor (32-bit or 64-bit) for your system. It is also advisable that you go for the highest version.
2. Install the latest version of Microsoft DirectX
Tick the checkbox for any additional downloads or ignore it and click on No thanks and continue.
Save the file to a designated location on your PC.
To install the DirectX updates, double-click the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Upgrading your Microsoft DirectX is one of the possible ways to fix the Xinput9_1_0.dll missing error. The DirectX installation package on the official download page works for all versions of Windows.
3. Run a System File Checker
Press the Windows key, type Command Prompt, and click on Run as administrator.
Next, type the following and press Enter: sfc /scannow
Once completed, restart your PC and check if the error is fixed.
By running the SFC scanner, Windows Resource Protection will help determine what the problem is and fix it.
As an alternative, it’s also recommended to use verified repair solutions specifically developed to fix DLL file errors or find missing files such as the Xinput9_1_0.dll.
4. Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables
Press the Windows key and select Control Panel. From the menu, click on Uninstall a program.
Check the version of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable and click on uninstall.
Uninstall the rest of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.
Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui, and press Enter.
Once the System Restore window opens, click on Next to proceed.
Next, select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
Now click on Finish.
Your PC will now restart and restore itself to the selected restore point.
Constantly creating a restore point is one of the ways to keep your data safe. You can use this as your last resort for fixing the Xinput9_1_0.dll error.
Regardless of the cause, the solutions compiled in this article for the Xinput9_1_0.dll missing issue can be safely applied to fix the error on your Windows PC.
Some of our readers have recently requested to know how to remove the Power button on sign-in screen for Windows PCs.
In this guide, we have provided some steps to follow and why users may want to remove the Power button on sign-in screen.
Why should I remove the Power button on Sign-in?
There may be several reasons why users may want to remove the Power button on the Windows Sign-in screen; however, below are some of those reasons:
Protects you from losing unsaved work on your PC – The Power button on the Sign-in screen on Windows PC allows users to Sleep, Shut down, Hibernate, or Restart the computer without signing in to Windows. Leaving the Power button on the Sign-in screen may allow users to shut down their PC abruptly, thereby leading to data loss.
It improves the security of your PC – By removing the Power button on your Sign-in screen, only authorized users will have access to the shutdown command. Even if you lock your PC, you or anyone else will need to sign in before shutting it down.
There may be others, but the above are the major reasons several users prefer to remove the Power button from their Windows sign-in screen.
How can I turn on or off the Power button on sign-in screen?
1. Use the System Registry Editor
Press the Windows + R keys shortcut to open the Run command dialog box. Type regedit in the text field of the dialog box and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Next, navigate to the following path or paste it into the address bar at the top and press Enter: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Double-click the shutdownwithoutlogon DWORD to change its value from 1 to 0.
Then, click OK to apply the changes. (However, if the DWORD doesn’t exist, you’ll have to create a new one by following the steps below:
On the left pane of your Registry Editor, right-click the System (folder) key, select New, and click on DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Name the key shutdownwithoutlogon and press Enter.
Double-click the shutdownwithoutlogon and set its value to 0.
Click on OK to save the changes.
Finally, close the Registry and restart your PC for the setting to take effect.
With the modifications, the Power button and related options will be removed on the Sign-in screen upon startup or when you lock your PC.
However, make sure you back up the Registry and your computer before making changes to avoid the irreversible damage that can be caused if you don’t do it correctly.
2. Use the Local Security Policy
Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run command dialog box. Type secpol.msc in the dialog box and press Enter.
Now, open Local Security Policy in the left pane, and click on Security Options.
On the right pane of Security Options, double-click on the Shutdown: Allow system to be shut down without having to log on policy to open its properties.
The dot for Enabled is likely on, so select the Disabled dot to remove Power button on sign-in.
If you are finding it difficult to open the Local Security Policy, you can explore our detailed guide on adding it to Windows if it is missing.
You can try any of the steps provided in this article on your Windows 10/11 PC to turn on or off the power button on the Sign-in screen. Besides, you may change the power button actions in Windows 11 for seamless functioning.
As spotted by Albacore (@thebookisclosed) on Twitter, the feature is supported but it’s still completely hidden without third-party registry tweaks here and there.
The feature to add VHD/VHDX units is now available through Disk Management from the Start menu or PowerShell, but once this feature is out for the public, you can create the units comfortably in the Settings app.
Additionally, the Windows enthusiast also says that the build comes with a brand-new look for Home in Settings, a built-in presence sensing feature that lets the device scans for sensors to detect users nearby and allow them to control apps, and a little tweak for keyboard’s settings.
A few week after 25300’s release, it seems like we’re getting somewhere with this Disk Management feature. As spotted by Windows enthusiast @PhantomOfEarth, the feature, albeit still hidden, can be activated with a third-party tool thanks to Build 25324 from Canary.
Ability to create a virtual disk in Settings, first spotted by @thebookisclosed in 25300, now works in build 25324, hidden feature! To get it working, you need to enable it with ViVeTool:
1. Make sure to join the Windows Insider Program and have the latest Windows 11 Insider Build from Canary (25324) installed in your system. If not, head over Settings ➜ Windows Update ➜ Install all.
3. Once downloaded, click Extract all, select the location where you want to extract it by clicking Browse, then hit Extract. In this case, we extract it at C:\Users\WindowsReport\Documents\Tools\ViVeTool-v0.3.2.
4. Hit ? on your keyboard, then type “cmd” and right-click on Command Prompt -> Run as administrator.
5. Type in cd + the directory where we extracted ViVeTool. In this case, it’s at C:\Users\WindowsReport\Documents\Tools\ViVeTool-v0.3.2, then hit Enter.
6. Type the following command then hit Enter.
vivetool /enable /id:42401084
7. Reboot the computer.
With that being said, it’s still worth noting that being an insider-only feature that isn’t out for primetime yet, you may be running into some performance problems here and there.
Are you excited for this feature? Let us know in the comments!
Your public IP address is unique and visible to websites and network admins. It contains information about your internet service provider, city, region, and country.
As you can imagine, having your public IP address visible is not the best for privacy.
Moreover, the information provided by your IP is the reason why you can’t access a lot of sites due to geo-restrictions or governmental regulations.
For this reason, many people use VPNs to hide their IP. But VPNs do much more than that, and you may not want to pay for a full VPN service if you only need it for changing your IP.
Luckily, there are other ways you can change your IP address on Windows 10.
What is an IP address?
An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a long string of numbers assigned to every device connected to a network.
→ In version 4 of the internet protocol (IPv4), an IP address is a 32-bit number in the form x.x.x.x, where x is a value between 0 and 255.
→ However, if your internet provider offers IPv6 (internet protocol version 6) on its network, you will have something like this: 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334
In theory, IPv6 is safer and more secure, but it’s not supported by a lot of ISPs and applications due to outdated infrastructure.
Both are equally safe for most online activities, but IPv4 is still the preferred choice because of this compatibility issue.
Now, let’s see how you can change your IP address.
How to change IP without VPN on Windows 10
If you want to change your IP address without using a VPN on Windows 10, you can try a few different methods.
1. Use a proxy server
Like a VPN, a proxy is a middleman between your device and the internet. Websites and apps see the IP address of the proxy server and not your actual IP address.
A VPN is technically a proxy that can be an SSL, SSH, or SOCKS proxy.
Here’s how to set up a proxy server on Windows 10:
Open the Windows Settings.
Click on “Network & Internet.“
Select “Proxy” from the left-hand menu.
Turn on the “Use a proxy server” toggle switch.
Enter the IP address and port number of the proxy server you want.
Click “Save” to apply the changes.
✅ Pros
Configurable in existing apps like your browser
There are free proxy servers available online
❌ Cons
Real IP could be exposed if the proxy connection drops for some reason
Susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks
They lack encryption and other security features
Changing your IP address using a proxy server can help protect your online privacy and security.
Moreover, it will allow you to access geographically restricted content and bypass network restrictions.
2. Use the Tor browser
When you connect to Tor, your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through a random sequence of these volunteer “nodes,” which are sort of like proxy servers.
Tor browser uses nodes that hide your IP address whenever you access any network. The nodes will change each time you use them. That guarantees your anonymity as well.
Websites can only see the IP address of the last server in the sequence, called the exit node.
Each time you visit a website, the nodes’ sequence changes, making tracing activity back to the original IP address practically impossible.
✅ Pros
It’s completely free
Easy to use
❌ Cons
Some websites block connections from known Tor nodes
May sometimes leak IP address
Tor is used to avoid censorship, ensure online privacy, and avoid targeted ads based on browsing history.
3. Use the Command Prompt
Changing your IP address using Command Prompt can help troubleshoot network issues or protect online privacy.
Following these simple steps, you can release your current IP address, renew it with a new one, and verify your new network configuration information.
Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “cmd” and hit Enter to open the Command Prompt.
Now, type “ipconfig /release” and hit Enter.
Type “ipconfig /renew” and hit Enter to obtain a new IP address from your network.
✅ Pros
Helpful in diagnosing network problems
Improves privacy
It resolves network issues such as slow internet speed
Free
Changes IP within seconds
❌ Cons
Disruption to the network connection.
Changes IP to one belonging to your ISP
It doesn’t stop tracking
When experiencing network issues and looking to protect your online privacy, this method can help with quick resolution.
4. Change your router’s MAC address.
The MAC address is a unique identifier for a computer’s network interface, with which websites can track online activities.
When using a router, every device on the network has a unique identifiable MAC address.
By changing your router’s or system’s MAC address, you can change your IP address or that of all devices connected to the router’s network.
Here’s how to change your system MAC address, hence IP address on Windows 10:
Press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager” from the menu.
Expand the “Network adapters” section.
Right-click on the network adapter you are using and select “Properties“.
Click “Advanced” and select “Network address” from the list.
Select “value” and enter the new MAC address you want to use.
Select “ok” to apply changes.
✅ Pros
Bypass network traffic restrictions by allowing your device to appear as a different device on the network, potentially gaining access to restricted resources..
Improves online security
It makes it difficult for websites to link your device to your previous activities.
❌ Cons
Limited effectiveness as some ISPs may not assign a new IP address
Technical knowledge is required
Can disrupt network connection
Some public WiFi networks may restrict access to specific devices based on MAC addresses.
If you cannot connect to a public WiFi network, changing your MAC address can help you bypass these restrictions and access the network.
How to change IP without VPN on Windows 11?
The methods of changing your IP address on Windows 11 are similar to that of Windows 10, as outlined above.
Therefore, you can change your IP address without VPN on Windows 11 using the Command Prompt, proxy server, or Tor browser.
The main difference between Windows 11 and Windows 10 is the location of some of the settings.
In Windows 11, the Settings app has a new design and layout, but the options for changing your IP address are still in the Network & Internet section.
Summary
Changing your IP address without a VPN on Windows 10 is possible, but it’s important to proceed cautiously and understand each method’s potential risks and benefits.
By using a proxy server, releasing and renewing your IP address, or changing your MAC address, you can take steps to protect your online privacy and access blocked content.
Tip
![Razer Synapse Not Detecting Razer Devices [Fixed]](https://windowsreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Untitled-design-5.jpg)
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