Apex CPU Time Limit Exceeded: How to Fix This Error

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Some of our readers have recently reported that while writing and testing some codes, they encountered the apex CPU time limit exceeded error message.

Salesforce has a timeout limit for transactions based on CPU usage and once reached this error message comes up. In this article, we will discuss how to fix this issue.

What causes Apex CPU time limit exceeded error?

There can be several reasons why you are experiencing the apex CPU time limit exceeded error. Below are some of the potential reasons:

  • LoggingEnabled set to True – The most likely reason for an error that says Apex CPU time limit exceeded when you submit an order is that the LoggingEnabled custom setting is set to true. Set LoggingEnabled to false to solve the issue.
  • Trigger logic entered multiple times – Another reason behind the apex CPU time limit exceeded is that the trigger logic is fired multiple times. Once trigger logic ends, it is followed by workflow to update the record which then causes the trigger logic to re-enter. This can then cause the CPU timeout error.
  • Excess nested loops – Loops with more than two levels can significantly lengthen CPU time. Instead of cramming too much into a single set of nested loops, try employing multiple code blocks.
  • Code in the managed packages – This is, unfortunately, a BlackBox, if the code in a managed package takes too long to execute, it will result in this error. To fix this, you need to reach out to the vendor for assistance.

Since you now know some of the possible reasons behind the apex CPU time limit exceeded error, let us proceed to how you can fix this problem.

How can I fix the apex CPU time limit exceeded error?

Before trying any of the advanced solutions provided in this article, whenever you encounter the error, try to perform the following preliminary checks:

  • Disable any unnecessary Process Builder flows if possible.
  • Check your CPU temperature on Windows 11.
  • Restart your PC.
  • Avoid multiple automation per object – every object should have an automated plan based on the demands of the company and the Salesforce team supporting it
  • Avoid Nested Loops – Using Maps is a quick and easy approach to eliminate nested loops.

Having tried the above checks, and the issue persists, you can now explore the advanced solutions provided below.

1. Set LoggingEnabled to False

  1. Go to the Lightning environment, click the Settings gear icon, and click Setup.
  2. Type Custom Settings in the Quick Find text field then click on Custom Settings.
  3. Navigate to General Settings and click the Manage link next to it.
  4. Then, click on the Edit link next to LoggingEnabled.
  5. Now, change the text in the Value field with the word false and click on Save.

The LoggingEnabled setting uses more processing power than is necessary for day-to-day operations. Changing the settings to false reduces the likelihood of receiving the apex CPU time limit exceeded error.

2. Use Salesforce Flow instead of Process Builder

Process builder processing is reported by many users to always trigger the apex CPU time limit error.

According to Salesforce, process builders and workflow should not be used for automation, but using Salesforce Flow can save users from CPU timeout errors.

3. Use Map-based queries

To avoid extra loops, use map-based queries. Below is an example of a map query used for loop to get record ID which increases the CPU time:

List<Account> accList=[Select Id,Name from Account limit 100]; Set<Id> setIds=new Set<Id>(); for(Account acc: accList){ //More CPU time for sure due to looping setIds.add(acc.id); }

Using Map query saves the CPU a great deal of time and it has proven to be one of the best solutions for the apex CPU time limit exceeded error.

Alternatively, you can explore our dedicated guide on the best ways to limit the CPU usage of a process for further information that can help you prevent the error next time.

And that’s it on how to fix the apex CPU timelimit issue. If you have any questions or suggestions on the best fix to apply for this issue, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

No Repository Found in VS Code: 3 Quick Ways to Fix It

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

While trying to clone a GitHub repository or push changes, you might encounter the no remote repositories found error in VS code.

The first thought that comes to your mind is that the repository doesn’t exist. However, in this case, the repo exists, but specific problems have prevented the repository from displaying.

If you’ve been struggling with the no repository found in VS code error, this article will briefly overview the error and steps to help resolve it. 

Why is no repository found in VS code?

Here are some of the reasons why you’re experiencing the No Repository Found error in VS code:

  • Authentication – To perform any actions on GitHub, like creating a pull request, the user must have sufficient access to the relevant resource. If you try to access a repository where you have yet to be added as a collaborator, you can run into the no remote repositories found error. 
  • Change of Remote Origin – In some cases, the remote origin of the resource you’re trying to access might have been changed, or an incorrect value has been added. When this happens, you won’t be able to access the repository due to errors from the resource origin.

What can I do if no repository is found in vs code?

The following are a couple of troubleshooting steps you can apply to help you fix the no repository found in VS code error:

1. Set Base URL

If you’re attempting to perform actions on a repository, you need to set a base URL on your local machine. 

  1. Launch the VS code app on your PC, and double-click the icon to open the application.
  2. Enter the following commands simultaneously:
    • git remote set-url origin https://github.com/[Username]/[ProjectName].git
    • git add *.java
    • git commit -m ""commit title""
    • git push origin master

Replace the Username and ProjectName with their corresponding data. Once the base URL is set, the no repository error found should be resolved. 

2. Delete Git Credentials

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the run dialog box, type in control and hit Enter.
  2. In the control panel, click on User Accounts and select Credential Manager.
  3. Click on Windows Credentials and locate the GitHub credentials under the Generic Credentials section.
  4. Click on Remove to delete all the git credentials. 

Sometimes, the problem is not from the URL. Instead, you can check if your password has been changed recently.

If you’ve changed your password recently, the old password may still be in use because the new one has yet to be cached. If this is the case, you need to clear all git-related info from your PC.

In case you run into errors like Credential Managers not working in Windows, be sure to read our guide on how to resolve it.

3. Change the URL of your Local Config File

  1. Navigate to Github’s official website.
  2. On the website, click on your profile icon, and click on Settings.
  3. Scroll down to locate Developer Settings and click on it.
  4. In the next window, click on the Personal Access Tokens tab, and select Generate New Token.
  5. Open the VS code terminal window, and navigate to the directory of your repo.
  6. Once in the directory, type in the command nano and hit Enter: .git/config
  7. Replace the username with your username and the personalToken with the token you generated.
  8. Close the Terminal and try accessing the repo to see if the error persists.

Fixing the no repository found error in VS code is tricky because many factors could trigger the error. However, the error usually lies with access and authentication. 

With the steps above, you should be able to fix the error. If you’ve got alternative solutions that helped you resolve this error, you can let us know in the comments below.

Posted in Fix

Bing AI vs ChatGPT 4: We Found the Differences

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

ChatGPT has been present for a while now, and it’s an amazing artificial intelligence chatbot. It can be used for giving information and for performing various tasks.

Since it’s such a versatile tool, it’s no wonder that Microsoft implemented ChatGPT to Bing search. By doing so, the search engine can give users more accurate information.

The new version of ChatGPT has been released, and if you want to learn more about its features, visit our ChatGPT 4 vs ChatGPT 3 guide for more information.

With the release of the new version, many are wondering if there are any differences between Bing and ChatGPT, and in today’s guide, we’re going to take a closer look at them.

ChatGPT vs Bing, everything you need to know

Access methods

Although ChatGPT in Bing is available to the public, it’s not available in all browsers. To use it, you need to have a Microsoft Account and use Edge.

This can be a problem, especially if you rely heavily on ChatGPT and don’t use Microsoft Edge for web browsing. Being forced to use a certain browser only to get access to this feature seems like a major inconvenience for most users.

It’s also possible to add Bing AI chat to other browsers, but we covered that issue in a separate guide.

On the other side, ChatGPT has a dedicated button in Edge, so it’s quick and easy to access, and you don’t need to have a separate tab open just to run it.

On the other hand, ChatGPT is available in all modern browsers, and to use it, you need Microsoft or Outlook account. This means that you don’t need to switch to a different browser or change your workflow to use it.

You may even integrate ChatGPT with WhatsApp by using the chatbot to send chat conversations. The procedure can be tricky, yet you can always check out our article on what to do if ChatGPT is not working.

Availability

GhatGPT-4 isn’t available to the general public since it was released in the early March of 2023. However, ChatGPT premium users get access to new and upcoming features, so they are already using it.

You can also join the ChatGPT-4 API waitlist if you’re a developer and you want to give it a try. On the other hand, ChatGPT-3.5 is available to the general public.

It’s important to mention that ChatGPT is available only via the website, so there’s no app on your phone that you can use. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it can cause inconvenience to some users.

On the other hand, Bing ChatGPT had a waitlist when it was first announced, but now it’s available to the public. To top it off, the new Bing runs on ChatGPT-4 optimized for search.

As for availability, the Bing search is available in Edge and mobile apps, allowing you to access it on any platform.

Different purposes

While ChatGPT-4 can be used for any purpose, the Bing version of ChatGPT is optimized for helping users with searching for specific data using the Bing search engine.

During our testing, we didn’t find any major differences between the two, however, more advanced users that rely heavily on ChatGPT might be able to spot them better.

This led some users to believe that the Bing version doesn’t have the access to the same features as the OpenAI version, however, we didn’t find any major differences in this regard.

Censorship issues

Some users complained that the Bing version of Chat GPT has issues with censorship and that the ChatGPT premium version offers more access to unfiltered information.

We haven’t had the chance to test this in practice, but if you want unrestricted access to the information, perhaps the ChatGPT premium might be a better option.

User interface

ChatGPT has a simple but effective user interface that comes with no distractions. All the data is easily presentable, and you can easily start a new chat.

On the other hand, ChatGPT on Bing is more colorful, trying to match Bing’s esthetics. We’re not a fan of this design choice, and we do prefer the minimal interface that the original offers.

On the other hand, there’s also a ChatGPT available in the sidebar, and while this version looks more streamlined, it doesn’t have enough space to present more data in a readable format, and the responses might feel a bit cluttered.

Accuracy

Since Bing’s version of ChatGPT is designed for improving the user’s search experience, many claim that it’s more accurate than the original.

This version relies on relevant search results, so in theory, it should provide you with fresh and accurate data right from Bing search.

On the other hand, ChatGPT-4 has a limited number of sources, so its data might not be always 100% correct.

Chat limitations

Both versions have certain limitations, and currently, Bing ChatGPT has a limit of 6 messages per chat and 60 total chats per day. This seems rather limiting, but unless you’re a heavy ChatGPT user, you probably won’t exceed these limitations.

And if you do, we have a guide on how to circumvent the daily limit with Bing AI, so be sure to check it out.

On the other hand, ChatGPT-4 from Open AI has a limit of 100 messages every four hours to handle more messages daily. If you use chatbots more frequently and are an advanced user, then the OpenAI version will work better for you.

Pricing

Lastly, we have to talk about pricing. Currently, ChatGPT comes with free and premium models. The premium model runs on ChatGPT-4, and it offers better responses and early access to new features.

However, it comes with a hefty monthly fee, so unless you’re using ChatGPT daily, you probably aren’t going to subscribe.

We have a great guide on ChatGPT Professional, so be sure to check it if you plan to start using it.

On the other hand, the Bing version of ChatGPT is completely free and open to the public, allowing you to use it without any restrictions, which is perfect if you’re a casual user that wants to give ChatGPT a try.

Is Bing Chat better than ChatGPT?

While Bing ChatGPT chatbot offers access to ChatGPT-4 and better access to recent information, it lacks certain functionality compared to its OpenAI counterpart. If you’re an advanced user, you can even install the ChatGPT app locally, and that’s something that Bing AI can’t do.

Simply put, this version is optimized for web search, so if you’re an advanced user you may feel that this version doesn’t utilize the full potential of ChatGPT-4.

On the other hand, Bing ChatGPT is perfect for casual users that predominantly use the Edge browser. In our opinion, we’ll wait until ChatGPT-4 becomes available to the general public and continue using the ChatGPT-3.5 that is currently available.

In our opinion, Bing Chat might be better for casual users, but we’ll always prefer ChatGPT due to its advanced functionality. Not a fan of ChatGPT? Maybe you should look into ChatGPT alternatives instead.

Google is also joining the AI chatbot market, and if you want to learn more, we have a great guide on Bing AI vs ChatGPT that you should check out.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments section below.

How to Fix Printer Error 0x0000052e: Cannot Connect to Printer

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

The printer error 0x0000052e Windows cannot connect to the printer can show up during a printer installation or when you’re simply want to perform a printing job. This can be caused by an improper cable or network connection to the printer, malfunctioning driver or just a wrong setup. Before starting the solutions below, make sure that the printer is connected properly and you have a steady internet connection.

How do I fix printer error 0x0000052e?

1. Run the troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Troubleshoot.Troublshooter 0x0000052e
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.troubleshooters
  4. Locate the Printer option and click Run.0x0000052e System Troubleshooter - Printer - Run
  5. Select Apply this fix.

Besides the steps mentioned above, we also think you should take care of other critical issues, such as corrupted system files, which can also be the problem of the error.

Thus, to help you simplify this situation, we suggest you try a specialized tool in this area that will help you take care of all corrupted, broken, or even missing files by finding healthy components as replacements.

2. Start the network printer using CMD

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.CMD elevated 0x0000052e
  2. Type the following command, replace <servername> with the printer server name & <printername> with the name of your printer, and press Enter: start \\<servername>\<printername>
  3. On the authentication window, enter your username and password.

3. Reset the printer spooler

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type %WINDIR%\system32\spool\printers and click OK to open the Printers folder.Run window 0x0000052e
  3. Select all the content and click the Delete icon.
  4. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.

4. Use the Credential Manager

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.CP
  2. Select View by as Large icons or Small icons, and select Credential Manager.Credential Manager CP 0x0000052e
  3. Click Windows Credentials, then click Add a Windows credential.Windows credentials
  4. On the next window, enter the correct printer server name, along with login credentials. OK CM 0x0000052e
  5. Click OK to complete the process.

5. Reinstall the printer driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Device Manager RUN COMMAND
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open Device Manager.
  3. Go to Print queue, expand it, select the driver, and click Uninstall device.Uninstall device print queues
  4. Now go to Action, and click Scan for hardware. Your computer will reinstall the missing driver.Action scan for hardware changes 0x0000052e
  5. Restart your computer to save the changes.

6. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
  3. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Policies\Microsoft\Windows NT\Printers\PointAndPrint
  4. Select and right-click PointAndPrint, choose New, then click DWORD (32-bit) Value.New key 0x0000052e
  5. Name the DWORD as RestrictDriverInstallationToAdministrators
  6. Double-click RestrictDriverInstallationToAdministrators and change the Value data to 0.OK Regedit
  7. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
  8. Reboot your PC to confirm the changes.

7. Perform a repair install

7.1 Create installation media

  1. Go to Windows 11 website.
  2. Under Create Windows 11 Installation Media, click Download Now.Download now Installation Now - 0x0000052e
  3. Double-click to run the Windows 11 setup. On the wizard, click Accept.Accept Setup Windows 11 step1
  4. Select language, edition, and architecture (64-bit) and click Next.NExt Setup Windows 11 step 2
  5. On the Choose which media to use  page, choose USB flash drive, and click  Next.Setup Windows 11 Choose which media to use - 0x0000052e
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process to create installation media.USB drive ready

7.2 Install Windows 11 again

  1. Plug in the USB drive and restart your PC.
  2. If your computer doesn’t boot using USB, you need to change the boot order from BIOS. If it has, proceed.
  3. On the Install Windows page, choose language, time, and keyboard preference and click Next.English US 0x0000052e
  4. Click Install Windows.Install now
  5. Wait for a few minutes, Windows will be installed and it will take you to the login screen.

What causes the 0x0000052e Windows cannot connect to printer issue?

There are several reasons for this printer error: some of the common ones are mentioned here: 

  • Incorrect printer configuration -If your printer is misconfigured, then your computer might not be able to connect to the printer. You need to check the printer settings to make sure that’s not the case.
  • Damaged printer driver – Drivers are important for the smooth functioning of your computer. If the device drivers are outdated or incompatible, then you might not be able to connect your computer to a printer. To fix this, you need to update device drivers to the latest compatible version.
  • Firewall or security settings – The security tool or firewall settings of your device could prevent your computer from connecting to the printer. You need to check if Firewall is blocking the printer port or if the security software is blocking the printer driver.
  • Network connectivity issues – If the printer is connected to the network and there are connectivity issues, then the computer might not able to establish a connection with the printer.
  • System files are corrupted – If your Windows files that handle printer dependencies are missing or damaged, then you might face this issue. You need to perform a clean installation to fix it.

So, these are the methods that you can follow to fix 0x0000052e: Windows cannot connect to the printer. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.

oobeaadv10: Something went wrong [Fix Guide]

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

While configuring OOBE settings, if you have encountered oobeaadv10: Something went wrong, this guide can help.

We will explain all the troubleshooting methods to fix the error right after discussing the causes. 

What causes the oobeaadv10: Something went wrong error on Windows? 

There are several reasons for this OOBE error: some of the common ones are mentioned here: 

  • Corrupt Registry entries – If the Registry entries on your computer are damaged, then this OOBE error could come up. To fix it, you need to repair registry entries.
  • Incorrect drivers – Drivers are important for your computer for smooth functioning. If drivers are outdated or corrupted, it could cause issues during the OOBE setup process and trigger an error message. You need to update your device drivers to the latest version. 
  • Software conflicts – Sometimes, third-party software or antivirus programs can interfere with the OOBE setup process and cause issues. Check for the newly installed apps and uninstall them to see if the issue persists.
  • Hardware issues – Hardware issues, including faulty RAM, hard drive errors or other hardware problems, could cause this error. 
  • Corrupt system files – If the system files on your computer are missing or damaged, it could prevent the OOBE setup process from completing.

What can I do to fix the oobeaadv10: Something went wrong error on Windows?

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

1. Disable antivirus temporarily

  1. Press the Windows key, type Windows Security, and click Open.Windows Security open - oobeaadv10: Something went wrong [Fix Guide]
  2. Go to Virus & threat protection and click Manage Settings.Manage settings
  3. For Real-time protection, click on the toggle to turn it off.Real time protection off
  4. Click Yes on the UAC prompt to confirm the changes.

2. Run an SFC command 

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. CMD elevated oobeaadv10: Something went wrong [Fix Guide]
  2. Copy and paste the following command to repair system files and press Enter:  sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD
  3. Then, restart your computer to save the changes. 

3. Repair registry entries 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type Regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
  3. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory Management
  4. Go to CommitLimit, right-click, and select Delete.Commit LIMIT delete oobeaadv10: Something went wrong
  5. Click Yes to confirm the changes. Yes delete
  6. Close the Registry Editor app and reboot your computer. 

4. Run Windows troubleshooter 

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Troubleshoot.System troubleshoot oobeaadv10: Something went wrong
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.Other Troubleshooters
  4. Locate Windows Update and click Run.Windows Update Run oobeaadv10
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

5. Reset the PC

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Recovery. System - Recovery Windows 11 -oobeaadv10: Something went wrong
  3. Under Recovery options, go to Reset this PC and click Reset Now. RESET
  4. On Choose an option page, select Keep my files.Keep my files oobeaadv10: Something went wrong
  5. Select Cloud download on How would you like to reinstall Windows page.Cloud download
  6. On the Additional settings page, click Change settings.Change settings oobeaadv10: Something went wrong
  7. Now on Choose settings screen, toggle off the switch to No and click Confirm.Confirm
  8. Again on the Additional settings page, click Next.additonal settings
  9. On Ready to reset this PC page, click Reset.Reset

So, these are methods to fix the oobeaadv10: Something went wrong error. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.

This new CISA tool can prevent hacking attempts in Microsoft’s cloud

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

A lot of us can or already have fallen victim to ruthless hackers, so keeping ourselves protected in this ever-changing online world is paramount.

Know that the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, also known as CISA, has released a new open-source incident response tool.

This new software actually helps detect signs of malicious activity in Microsoft cloud environments, which can be huge in the battle against malicious third parties.

Speaking of clouds, we can show you some of the best Cloud storage apps for Windows 10. Also, we can teach you how to fix the Cloud operation was unsuccessful error on OneDrive

Check out this new security tool from CISA

Commonly known as the Untitled Goose Tool, this Python-based utility can dump telemetry information from Azure Active Directory, Microsoft Azure, and Microsoft 365 environments.

According to CISA, it is a robust and flexible hunt and incident response tool that adds novel authentication and data-gathering methods.

With this tool, you can basically run a full investigation against a customer’s Azure Active Directory (AzureAD), Azure, and M365 environments.

Furthermore, Untitled Goose Tool also gathers additional telemetry from Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MDE) and Defender for Internet of Things (IoT) (D4IoT).

We know you are curious about specifics, so let’s get into it. With the cross-platform Microsoft cloud interrogation and analysis tool, security experts and network admins can:

  • Export and review AAD sign-in and audit logs, M365 unified audit log (UAL), Azure activity logs, Microsoft Defender for IoT (internet of things) alerts, and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MDE) data for suspicious activity.
  • Query, export, and investigate AAD, M365, and Azure configurations.
  • Extract cloud artifacts from Microsoft’s AAD, Azure, and M365 environments without performing additional analytics. 
  • Perform time bounding of the UAL.
  • Extract data within those time bounds. 
  • Collect and review data using similar time-bounding capabilities for MDE data.

Keep this in mind if you value the privacy and security of your company. However, know that it all starts with us being extra careful when on the internet.

Is this something you would be interested in using yourself? Share your opinions with us in the comments section below.

Microsoft Loop vs. Notion: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Over the last few years, Microsoft has put a lot of effort into getting as many people to use their products as possible. You can tell from products like the Edge browser, which has evolved over the years with its features.

For today, we want to concentrate a little on project management tools. Microsoft Loop and Notion, to be precise.

Both are cloud-based project management apps, but which one is better? We look at some of the main differences between these two products to help you decide which is right for your business.

What is Microsoft Loop used for?

Microsoft Loop is an online project management tool integrating with Office 365 services such as SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business. This is the tool for any business that values organization and boosting productivity.

You can easily organize your team by creating tasks, setting due dates, and tracking progress toward goals. Another notable feature is that Microsoft Loop has enabled API, which will be great for developers as they can extend the app’s functionality if needed.

With all these praises, you may wonder, Is Microsoft Loop ready? Yes, it is, and it is publicly available.

Other tasks you can perform with Microsoft Loop include:

  • Create documents in Word, Excel, or PowerPoint from within the app
  • Share documents with others
  • Create separate workspaces for each project you’re working on
  • Add tasks to a task list for each project
  • Give feedback in real-time

Both services have an impressive array of features, and we look at some astounding similarities below.

What are the similarities and differences between Loop and Notion?

Similarities

1. Templates

Loop and Notion offer templates to help you get started, but they go about it differently.  You can use these templates as is or as a starting point for your custom design.

Templates are great because you don’t have to start from scratch every time. What’s even better is that you can customize these templates to create your workflow. They also come in various categories, so you can rest assured that you’ll save lots of time.

2. Integration

Since Loop is Microsoft’s project, it is expected to integrate with other Microsoft products. Notion notably integrates with collaboration platforms such as Zoom, Slack, and Google.

This is great, especially for a business mainly using products like Teams. The whole point of an all-in-one workspace is to have all associated apps working together.

It isn’t fun at all to keep switching from one app to another when working on a project, and Loop and Notion have ensured that users won’t have to worry about this.

3. AI-powered

AI is not going anywhere, and every business is bound to integrate it somewhere. Loop and Notion have not been left behind when it comes to exploring the power of AI.

Loop integrates AI in contextual suggestions to help you bring your ideas to life. Notion, on the other hand, leverages AI to automate tedious tasks. Its AI model is more advanced as it can help you write, explain and translate, among other features.

The idea is that by using AI to automate these tasks, you can spend more time focusing on making progress toward your goals instead of wasting time doing tedious work.

Differences

While both applications are similar in many ways, several differences between Loop and Notion may make it easier for you to decide which is best for your needs. 

1. Pricing

A critical component when choosing your project management tool is pricing. You want to select one that meets your needs but still be able to keep the lights on when it comes to monthly subscriptions.

Loop and Notion both have a free version, but there are some major differences in their pricing.

Notion has various pricing packages, from the free option to the Enterprise package, which is custom-built for each business. The major difference in the pricing is that the number of guest collaborators increases as you move up.

So, depending on the number of team members you have, you can select a plan that fits your workspace. Prices range from $8 to $15 per month, which is quite affordable given all the features provided.

Since it has just been launched, the pricing is still a bit hazy for Microsoft Loop users, but for now, it seems it will be included in the Microsoft 365 subscription. This is a win because you don’t have to get a separate subscription.

2. Collaboration

We’ve already established that both tools are great collaborative apps, but each goes further in the number of people who can simultaneously edit in the workspace. In this sector, Notion takes the crown. 

An unlimited number of people can all edit at once, and all edits will be displayed instantly. For Microsoft Loop, only 50 people can edit the workspace at once, and even so, Microsoft still recommends a maximum of 12 at any given time.

This will prevent the workspace from getting too cramped. Looking at it from another angle, it may not be so disadvantageous as 12 is a good number as it allows you to keep track of any changes.

For Notion, having an unlimited number of people making edits on a single workspace can be overwhelming, especially if you have to keep up with every edit and comment.

3. Security

Security is one of the biggest differences in the Microsoft Loop vs Notion war. While both systems offer encryption, it’s only available on the Enterprise version in Notion. This means that features like audit logs and single sign-ons are reserved only for premium members.

For Loop, users must create security groups alongside their Azure AD membership. The admins will then grant access to users, which can be revoked at any time. 

In contrast to Notion, this is more secure because admins can monitor and detect potential security risks and avert them in time.

Now that Microsoft Loop is publicly available, it’s only a matter of time before users decide which platform reigns supreme. Notion and Microsoft Loop are available as desktop apps which makes If you were part of the Microsoft Loop preview, it is nothing new, and you can decide which is the better option.

Loop and Notion are solid productivity apps and can help you get more out of your workflow than ever. Ultimately, the better option depends on each business’s individual needs. If we had to choose, we’d go for Microsoft Loop, given the security benefits that come with it.

Also, the integration with Microsoft apps will offer a seamless experience. We’re keen to know what your preference is between the two. Let us know in the comment section.

Here’s How to Add A Shared Mailbox into Outlook

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Adding a shared mailbox in Outlook can help streamline team communication and collaboration. It allows multiple team members to manage and access messages from a shared account, improving productivity and promoting better teamwork.

This guide will discuss different ways to add a mailbox in Outlook with step-by-step instructions. Let’s get started!

What can I do to add a shared mailbox in Outlook?

Before proceeding with the steps to add a shared mailbox, go through the following:

  • First, it should be available in Microsoft 365.
  • MS Outlook is configured with your Microsoft 365 account.
  • You should have access to the shared mailbox.
  • Always remember that configured shared mailbox can allow external access.
  • An email address and display name should be associated with it.

1. Use the Outlook app

  1. On the Outlook app, click File.File add a shared mailbox in outlook
  2. Click Account Settings, and select Account Settings from the drop-down.Account Settings
  3. Click Change.Change Account add a shared mailbox in outlook
  4. Go to More Settings.More settings
  5. Switch to the Advanced tab and click Add.Add account add a shared mailbox in outlook
  6. On the Add Mailbox, enter the name under Add Mailbox and click OK.Add mailbox
  7. Click OK.
  8. Choose Next, click Finish, and then Close.

2. Use the Microsoft 365 Admin Centre

  1. Go to Microsoft 365 Admin Centre.
  2. Click Teams & groups from the left pane and select Shared mailboxes.Shared mailboxes add a shared mailbox in outlook
  3. On the right pane, click Add a shared mailbox.Add a shared mailbox
  4. Enter the name and email address and click Save changes.
  5. The shared mailbox will be created. Now click on the Add members to your shared mailbox link. Next steps add a shared mailbox in outlook
  6. Under Shared mailbox members, click Add members.Add members
  7. From the list, choose the member, click Add, and then Close it.

3. Use the Outlook app

  1. Go to Microsoft 365 website and sign in.
  2. From the left pane, select Outlook.Outlook add a shared mailbox in outlook
  3. Go to your mailbox; on the Folders option, right-click and select Add shared folder or mailbox.Add folder
  4. On the next window, enter the name or email address and click Add.Add1

4. Use the Open & Export method

  1. On Outlook, click File to open the Outlook menu.
  2. Go to Open & Export, then click User’s Folder.Open Export
  3. The Open Other User’s Folder window will open; enter a name or click on it to get the Address Book.
  4. Select the shared mailbox from the list and click OK.
  5. On Open Other User’s Folder, click OK to close the window.

So, these are ways to add a shared mailbox in Outlook in no time. We also have a great guide on how to delete an Outlook group if you don’t want to use a shared mailbox anymore, be sure to check it out.

And lastly, find out how to share a contact group in Outlook, and even have others modify it.

Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments below. If you are having difficulties sending or receiving emails on Outlook, this guide can help!

KB5023780 brings back seconds to the taskbar clock in the Beta Chanel

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

After checking out the most recent Canary Build, it’s time to look at other channels as well. More specifically, Microsoft released new software for Beta Insiders as well.

And, as we told you before, be careful when using the Snipping Tool. It was discovered that it hides a vulnerability that can be exploited by malicious third parties.

Circling back, it’s time to focus on the new Beta build, one that was just delivered to Windows Insiders on that specific Channel.

Before we proceed, we want to remind you about the fact that the March 2023 Patch Tuesday updates are seriously slowing down your SSD.

Windows 11 Beta build 22624.1470 restores seconds in the systray clock, and more KB5023780

Lots of new features added to the Windows 11 Beta Channel

Yes, you guessed it, we are getting twin builds delivered to this Channel again. Microsoft has started doing this since last year.

Today, the tech giant released builds 22624.1470 and 22621.1470 (KB5023780) to the Beta Channel for Windows 11 Insiders to test and enjoy.

Microsoft has now added a USB4 hubs and devices page in the Settings app. USB4 enables new productivity scenarios for docking, high-performance peripherals, displays, and charging.

This USB4 settings also page provides information about the system’s USB4 capabilities and attached peripherals on a USB4 capable system.

Let’s get right into the rest of the changelog. It contains all the fixes that have been performed in order to improve the experience.

What’s different from the Canary build is that this one has some known issues, while the other doesn’t have any confirmed ones just yet.

Changes and Improvements in Build 22624.1470

[General]

  • Users will now see a copy button for quickly copying two-factor authentication (2FA) codes in notification toasts from apps installed on the PC or from phones linked to the PC. We make a best effort to determine if a notification toast has an authentication code but please send us feedback if we got it wrong or if we failed to detect the code in a notification toast.
New copy button for quickly copying two-factor authentication (2FA) codes in notification toasts.

[Taskbar & System Tray]

  • Added a glanceable VPN status into the system tray when connected to a recognized VPN profile. The VPN icon, a small shield, will be overlayed in your system accent color over the active network connection.
Glanceable VPN status in the system tray using system accent color.
  • In response to user feedback, we are introducing the capability to show seconds in the clock on the system tray. This feature can be enabled by toggling the option listed under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar in the Taskbar behavior section. You can also right-click on taskbar to quickly get to taskbar settings. UPDATE: This experience is currently not working as expected – see the known issues below.
Option to show seconds in the system tray clock.

Changes and Improvements for BOTH Build 22621.1470 & Build 22624.1470

[Search on the Taskbar]

  • The search box on taskbar will be lighter when Windows is set to a custom color mode. Specifically, when the Windows 11 mode is set to dark, and the app mode is set to light under Settings > Personalization > Colors you will see a lighter search box on taskbar.
The search box on taskbar will be lighter when Windows is set to a custom color mode.

Fixes in Build 22624.1470

[Live captions]

  • Fixed the issue causing live captions to not work for Chinese Traditional on Arm64 devices.

Fixes for BOTH Build 22621.1470 & Build 22624.1470

[Search on the Taskbar]

  • Fixed rendering issues when using the touch keyboard with the search box on taskbar.
  • Fixed an issue when double clicking the search highlight glyph in the search box makes it disappear.
  • Fixed an issue where the search box would randomly disappear.
  • Fixed an issue where the search icon flips incorrectly for right-to-left (RTL) languages.
  • Fixed on issue where you might have seen some text flicker in the search box when you click into it.
  • Fixed an issue where the search box might disappear on one monitor if you are using multiple monitors.
  • Made some accessibility fixes to the settings for search under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.

Known issues

[System Tray]

  • While the setting to turn on to show seconds in the clock on the system tray is shown under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar, it currently does not work on this build.

[Live captions]

  • On ARM64 devices, enhanced speech recognition support installed through the Language & Region settings page will require restarting live captions if you switch languages in the live captions Caption language menu.
  • Certain languages shown on the Language & Region settings page will indicate speech recognition support (e.g., Korean) but don’t yet have support for live captions.
  • When adding a language through the Language & Region settings page, language feature installation progress may become hidden, and you may not see install completion of “Enhanced speech recognition” (required by Live Captions). (You can use the language’s “Language options” to monitor progress.) If this happens, there may be an unexpected delay before the live caption setup experience detects this and lets you continue.
  • Captioning performance may be degraded in non-English languages and missing out-of-language filtering in non-English (United States) languages which means that incorrect captions will be shown for speech not in the caption language.

What can I do if I can’t install build 25324?

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

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

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

Why Is My Alienware Laptop Overheating? [Fix Guide]

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Users frequently ask why a high-end PC like an Alienware laptop overheats. It is because they experience the PC getting hot, especially when gaming. However, we’ll discuss the causes of Alienware laptop overheating and ways to mitigate it.

Alternatively, refer to our detailed review of the best Alienware monitors for gamers for maximum gaming performance.

Why is the Alienware laptop overheating?

Many factors can cause the Alienware laptop overheating. Some notable ones are:

  • Heavy workloads – The Alienware laptop can overheat and not work correctly if you’re performing lots of heavy-duty workloads simultaneously. It causes it to overwork its components without tile to rest.
  • Faulty GPU or CPU components – Running outdated graphics cards on your laptop can affect its GPU performance, causing it to malfunction and work forcefully. Also, failing hardware like the CPU may generate more heat, resulting in laptop overheating.
  • Air vent blockage – Placing the Alienware laptop on a soft surface can block the vent flow, which helps disperse heat and allows cooling air.
  • Faulty fans and dust accumulation – The fans in the Alienware laptop help it to cool its hardware components and remove heat from the motherboard. However, dust accumulation on the fan can prevent it from spinning, causing the system to overheat.

These factors can differ on different Alienware laptops depending on the situation. Nonetheless, you can fix the problem by following the steps outlined below.

What can I do when my Alienware laptop is overheating?

Before applying any advanced troubleshooting steps, go through these:

  • Remove the Alienware laptop from the soft surface and place it on a flat wooden desk or a laptop stand.
  • Unplug the laptop from its power source.
  • Ensure your room temperature is cool.
  • Don’t run the Alienware laptop for an extended period.
  • Clean the vents and check the fans.
  • Use a cooling pad – we have a detailed review of best cooling pad deals for your PC here.

If you can’t fix it, try the steps below:

1. Reduce Processor temperature

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Power plan, then select Edit power plan from the Best results.
  2. Click Change advanced power settings.
  3. Select the Processor power management option and set the values according to your requirements.

Reducing the processor workload by about 20% can help reduce heat.

2. Update your graphics drivers

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run window, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK to open the Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display Adapter entry, right-click on the device driver, then select Update driver from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on Search Automatically for the updated driver software option.
  4. Restart your PC and check if the overheating issue persists.

Updating the graphics drivers on the Alienware laptop will resolve bugs causing the GPU malfunctions and install the latest features to improve the drivers’ performance.

Check our detailed guide about updating graphics drivers on Windows 11 if you have any issues.

3. Configure the Alienware Command Center

  1. Right-click the Start button, then select the Alienware Command Center.
  2. Set the Active System Theme – Thermal as Performance Mode.
  3. Change the Active System Theme – Overclock to Overclock 02.
  4. Restart the Alienware laptop and check if the overheating issue persists.

In performance mode, the fan runs aggressively to support the CPU operating at Turbo frequency for extended periods.

4. Disable Overclocking Technology

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Control Panel, then select it from the result.
  2. Select Hardware and Sound from the menu and click on Power Options.
  3. Click on Change Plan settings, then Change advanced power settings to open the Power Options tab.
  4. Expand the Processor power management option. Click on the Maximum processor state tab and set the values for both On battery and Plugged in as 99%.
  5. Click on the Apply button, then OK to save the changes.
  6. Restart your PC and check if the laptop overheats.

The above steps help to underclock your CPU and fix the overwork causing it to overheat.

Alternatively, check other ways to safely underclock your GPU without affecting your PC.

In conclusion, you may be interested in our guide on the best CPU Temperature Monitoring software for Windows 11.

Windows 11 build 25324 (Canary) has an evolved Widgets board

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

Recently, we looked at KB5023778, which brings the long-awaited Bing chat shortcut for the Edge browser to the Windows 11 taskbar.

On the Windows 11 topic, be careful with the Snipping Tool app. It was discovered that it hides a vulnerability that can be exploited.

It’s time to focus a bit on the new Canary build, one that was just delivered to Windows Insiders on that specific Channel.

Before we do, though, we have to remind you about the fact that the March 2023 Patch Tuesday updates are seriously slowing down your SSD.

What should I look for in build 25324?

Not long ago, we announced the introduction of the Canary Channel to the Windows Insider program. Since then, Insiders here received two builds.

Microsoft has released a new build for Windows 11 Canary Channel Insiders today. Build 25324 brings SHA-3, a new Defender warning UI, and a new USB4 settings page.

It also boosts the performance of File Explorer, the company says. And, as always, there are many more bug fixes and other improvements.

The tech giant is now beginning to preview a revamp of the widgets board, with a larger canvas and dedicated section for widgets and feed content with a clear separation between them.

If your device supports it, you can have a 3 collum widgets panel. Not all Insiders will get this feature exactly from the start.

Also, the tech giant is adding a USB4 hubs and devices page in the Settings app. USB4 enables new productivity scenarios for docking, high-performance peripherals, displays, and charging.

This USB4 settings also page provides information about the system’s USB4 capabilities and attached peripherals on a USB4 capable system.

Furthermore, starting in Windows 11 (version 22H2), Enhanced Phishing Protection in Microsoft Defender SmartScreen has been enabled.

Keep in mind that this helps protect Microsoft school or work passwords against phishing and unsafe usage on sites and apps.

Furthermore, starting with this build, there is added support for the SHA-3 family of hash functions and SHA-3 derived functions (SHAKE, cSHAKE, KMAC).

In fact, the SHA-3 family of algorithms are the latest standardized hash functions by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Let’s also check out the rest of the changelog and see what else we are getting in this new Canary Channel build.

Changes and Improvements

[Widgets]

  • Beginning to roll out animated icons for Widgets on the taskbar. The animation triggers when you hover or click on the Widgets taskbar entry-point or when a new widget announcement is displayed on your taskbar. Currently, only a few weather and finance icons are supported.

[Search on the Taskbar]

  • Once you have access to the new Bing, the search box on the taskbar will include a button that opens the Bing chat experience in Edge. If you don’t have access to the new Bing, the search box on the taskbar will feature a dynamic search highlight button. We’re beginning to roll this out to Insiders, not everyone will see it right away.

[Input]

  • Updated several simplified Chinese fonts and the Microsoft Pinyin IME to support GB18030-2022.  With this update, you can enter and display characters from conformance level 1 or 2 via the additions to Microsoft Yahei, Simsun and Dengxian. Unicode Extensions E and F are now supported in our Simsun Ext-B font to meet the requirements for level 3.

[Settings]

  • As part of the deprecation of Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool (MSDT) and MSDT Troubleshooters, we have begun redirecting some of the troubleshooters found under Settings > System > Troubleshoot and in other areas of the OS to the new Get Help troubleshooting platform.
  • If you have multiple cameras that support Windows Hello, you can now select your preferred camera under Settings > Accounts > Sign-in Options.
Showing a new dropdown in sign-n settings for your preferred camera, saying “let Windows choose” or letting you pick the camera.

[File Explorer]

  • Made some changes which should noticeably help improve the performance of the “calculating” phase when sending a large number of files at once in File Explorer to the recycle bin.

What can I do if I can’t install build 25324?

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

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

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

Why Is Your Acer Laptop Overheating & How to Stop It

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Acer laptop overheating is a common issue that can cause slow performance, sudden shutdowns, or even hardware damage. It often happens due to dust buildup, poor ventilation, or heavy workloads, but the exact cause depends on your usage and maintenance habits.

Why Your Acer Laptop Is Overheating

Overheating is common in laptops with compact cooling systems. In Acer models, it often occurs when airflow is restricted, the cooling fan is malfunctioning, or heavy processing tasks overload the CPU and GPU.

What can I do if my Acer laptop is overheating?

Table of contents

1. Reduce Processor temperature

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Power plan, then select Edit power plan from the Best results.
  2. Click Change advanced power settings.
  3. Select the Processor power management option and set the values according to your requirements.

Reducing the processor power consumption will help reduce heat and set the system to work with the requirements.

Read our guide about minimum and maximum processor states in Windows and how to tweak them.

2. End tasks for high-intensity apps and games

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type taskmgr.exe, and click OK to open Task Manager.
  2. Find the app, right-click it, then select End Task from the drop-down menu.
  3. Restart your PC and check if the overheating continues.

Ending tasks for some apps and games will stop their background activities and reduce the power intensity on the system. Check how to turn off background apps on Windows 11 for more steps.

3. Update your graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run window, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK to open the Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display Adapter entry, right-click on the device driver, then select Update driver from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on Search Automatically for the updated driver software option.
  4. Restart your PC and check if the overheating issue persists.

Updating the graphics driver can fix GPU bugs that cause overheating by forcing the chip to overvolt under load. If you encounter issues during manual updates, you can use Fortect Driver Updater to scan for outdated or missing drivers and install the correct versions automatically. This helps avoid OS damage from incompatible drivers.

4. Update BIOS and chipset power management

  1. Press the Windows key, type “System Information,” and note the System Model.
  2. Go to Acer Support, search your exact model, and open the Drivers & Manuals page.
  3. Download the latest BIOS and Chipset/power management packages.
  4. Plug in the charger and close all applications.
  5. Install the chipset package first and restart.
  6. Run the BIOS updater, follow the on-screen steps, and let the system reboot.
  7. After boot, check if thermals improved by monitoring temperatures during normal use.
  1. Avoid leaving the laptop at 100% charge for extended periods when idle.
  2. Once the battery reaches full, unplug the charger and let it discharge to around 60–80% during light use.
  3. Keep the area around the laptop cool and unobstructed.
  4. If your Acer utility offers a battery health mode, enable it to limit peak charge during desk use.
  5. If the battery appears swollen, stop using the device and have it replaced.

Alternatively, we recommend you check the best third-party temperature monitoring software for your device. Also, you may be interested in the 3 easy methods to adjust the fan speed for Acer laptops.

If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly use the comments section.

New Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel build 25314.1011 tests servicing pipeline

Posted on by Kip Kniskern

Just in time for the weekend, Microsoft has released a new build to the Canary Channel. This one has no new features, and is only meant to “test the servicing pipeline.” As promised, this new Canary Channel build doesn’t even rate a Windows Insider Blog post, but Microsoft tweeted out the news a few minutes ago:

So if you’re in the Canary Channel, fire up your Insider downloads and help Microsoft test out the servicing pipeline, whatever that is.

Weather from Microsoft Start is the most accurate weather forecasting service, says ForecastWatch

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The weather determines how we carry ourselves every day in every aspect of life from farming to dressing. This is why weather forecasting is very important.

It allows us to prepare early enough for what’s coming be it good tidings or adverse weather conditions that require elaborate measures to be put in place to prevent extensive damage and loss of life.

Microsoft’s Weather from Microsoft Start has particularly been resourceful. It has even received recognition from the Director of NOAA’s National Weather Service for the same recently.

In an independent study commissioned by Microsoft to be conducted by ForecastWatch to determine how effective and efficient the tool is in comparison to the top global weather providers, it emerged that the company’s Weather from Microsoft Start was “the most accurate weather forecasting service.”

Microsoft attributes this success to the past two years where it has worked tirelessly to enhance the tool’s capabilities by leveraging “industry-leading machine learning, AI, and other innovative technologies.” Weather from Microsoft Start was also at the top of the list when it comes to making accurate high temperature, low temperature, and wind speed predictions.

The company further added that:

Built right into Windows, Weather from Microsoft Start is accompanied by an intelligent, personalized feed that delivers up-to-the-minute weather information, for free. In addition to severe weather alerts, Weather from Microsoft Start provides precise weather information to help users make better decisions for their lifestyles, health, jobs and activities – including accurate 10-day global weather forecasts updated multiple times every hour.

Do you use Weather from Microsoft Start to make informed decisions on how to go about your day? Share your experience with us in the comments.

Gpedit.msc Not Found on Windows 10? Here’s How to Enable it

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

With the Group Policy Editor, you can easily tweak important system settings on the computer and the connected network. However, there are some users that aren’t able to open the Group Policy Editor and are coming across the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error.

If you are also experiencing this issue and looking for ways to fix it, you are in the right place. In this guide, we will show you a bunch of solutions to resolve the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error on Windows 10. Let us get right into it.

Why am I getting the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error?

It’s not just you, but several Windows 10 users are getting the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error. The complete error message reads Windows cannot find ‘gpedit.msc’. Make sure you’ve typed the name correctly, then try again.

Here are a few of the most common reasons that will trigger Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error on your Windows 10 PC.

  • Your Windows 10 version doesn’t support it: You should ensure that the version of Windows 10 installed on your PC supports the Group Policy Editor.
  • Corrupt system files: Chances are some Group Policy Editor-related system files are missing from your PC, because of which you are getting the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error.
  • You have to enable it manually: If the Group Policy Editor is missing from your PC, you might have to enable it manually.
  • Repair the system image file: Chances are that the Windows image has become unserviceable and is causing the issue.

Let us now check the solutions that will help you fix the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error.

How can I fix the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error?

1. Check your Windows version

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run menu.
  2. Type winver and press Enter.
  3. A new About Windows box will open, and you will see the details there.

Do note that if you are running Windows 10 Home version, the Group Policy Editor does not feature in it.

This is why we advised you to check out the version of Windows OS you are running, as this will eliminate any confusion on why you are getting the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error.

2. Fix corrupt system files

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD fltlib.dll is either not designed for Windows
  4. Wait for the tool to fix corrupt system files.
  5. Restart your PC.

Fixing corrupt files has helped several users resolve the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error on their Windows 10 PCs.

You can surely follow the above steps and use the SFC Scan to fix corrupt or missing system files; it can be eased by using a dedicated tool called Fortect.

With this software, you will be able to fix corrupt system files, fix system crashes, fix DLL and BSOD errors, and much more.

Fortect

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3. Copy gpedit files

  1. Press Win + E to open the File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to this path C:\Windows\SysWOW64.
  3. Find GroupPolicy, GroupPolicyUsers, and gpedit.msc respectively.
  4. Copy these folders.
  5. Go to C:\Windows\System32.
  6. Paste the items here.

This solution was suggested by one user who has helped thousands of users to resolve the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error. You can also follow the above steps and copy the mentioned files into the folder.

4. Create a Group Policy Editor batch file

4.1. Use the ZIP file

  1. Download the Gpedit installer ZIP file.
  2. Extract the contents of the ZIP file.
  3. Open the EXE file and follow the instructions to install Gpedit.
  4. Restart your PC.

Following the above steps, you will manually add Gpedit or Group Policy Editor to your Windows 10 PC.

The file above is safe, and you do not need to worry about it being a virus. However, if you want to create a batch file, follow the method below.

4.2. Create a batch file

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Notepad.
  3. Copy and paste the below content on the notepad. @echo off
    pushd "%~dp0"
    dir /b %SystemRoot%\servicing\Packages\Microsoft-Windows-GroupPolicy ClientExtensions-Package~3*.mum >List.txt
    dir /b %SystemRoot%\servicing\Packages\Microsoft-Windows-GroupPolicy-ClientTools-Package~3*.mum >>List.txt
    for /f %%i in ('findstr /i . List.txt 2^>nul') do dism /online /norestart /add-package:"%SystemRoot%\servicing\Packages\%%i"
    pause
  4. Save the file with .BAT extension and rename it gpedit_enabler or something like that.

5. Reset your PC

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Select Update & Security.
  3. Click on Recovery.
  4. Click Get started under Reset this PC.
  5. Select the Keep my files option.

If nothing works, then you should resort to resetting your PC. Chances are that the files are missing related to gpedit from your PC.

You can quickly fix this issue by resetting your PC. Be sure to check the keep my files option so that nothing of your files are deleted during the reset process.

That is it from us in this guide. We have a guide that explains how you can enable the Group Policy Editor on Windows 10 Home Edition.

You can also check out our guide that explains how to fix Group Policy Editor when it keeps reverting. If Group Policy Editor is missing on Windows 10, you should check out our guide and learn how to enable it.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions resolved the Windows cannot find gpedit.msc error.

Microsoft India releases “Empowering Dreams,” a film on how technology helps turn dreams to reality

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft has ventured into the filming scene and has now released a new entry dubbed Empowering Dreams. The film which majorly focuses on showing the company’s investment and commitment to empowering people across the globe with its solutions, features Pankaj Kapur, a seasoned director and actor.

Additionally, the film also captures how users can leverage technology to promote equality. It highlights how users can make use of tech to promote inclusivity by breaking down communication barriers, this way everyone gets to play a significant role in the development of the community.

The Executive Director, Corporate, Medium, and Small Business at Microsoft India, Samik Roy also indicated that:

Through this film, we want to showcase the power of dreams and how technology can serve as a reliable ally for individuals and businesses to fulfill their aspirations. In line with Microsoft’s mission, we have a steadfast commitment to empowering businesses, irrespective of their scale and size. We enable organizations and people to unlock their full potential with our secured solutions across productivity, collaboration, infrastructure, low/no code application platform, Data and AI, business applications and devices.

We invite you to check out Microsoft’s blog post, where you will get a brief synopsis of what the film’s all about, you can also get to check it out from there.

Dynamic Lock is Not Working? How to Fix or Reset it

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

With the Dynamic Lock feature available on Windows 10 and Windows 11, users can easily lock their PCs as soon as they move away from them. This feature works brilliantly without needing an additional camera or hardware setup. It only requires Bluetooth.

However, several users have reported that the Dynamic Lock is not working for them. Thankfully, in this guide, we will give you a bunch of solutions to help them resolve the Dynamic Lock not working problem in Windows 11. So let us get right into it.

Why isn’t the Dynamic Lock working on Windows 11 PC?

Dynamic Lock screen uses a phone which is paired with your PC. It remains inside the user’s pocket; when the user moves away, the PC recognizes the same and locks the screen.

We did some internet digging and discovered the most common reasons why the Dynamic Lock is not working on your Windows 11 PC.

  • The feature isn’t enabled: Well, the first thing you should ensure for any feature to work is that it should be allowed inside the settings menu.
  • Check Bluetooth driver: Chances are that the Bluetooth driver is outdated, corrupt, or missing, because of which you cannot use the Dynamic Lock feature.
  • Dynamic Lock feature is disabled on your PC: For some users, the Dynamic Lock feature is disabled from the registry settings, which you need to tweak for it to work.
  • You haven’t paired your device: You should ensure your mobile phone is paired with your laptop for the Dynamic Lock feature to work correctly.

Let us check out the solutions that will help you resolve the Dynamic Lock is not working problem.

How to fix Dynamic Lock not working problem?

1. Enable Dynamic Lock

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on the Accounts tab on the left.
  3. Select Sign in options on the right.
  4. Click on Dynamic lock under the Additional settings section.
  5. Tick the box that reads Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away.

After following the above steps, take your paired phone away from the laptop and check if this fixed the issue.

2. Unpair and pair your phone

  1. https://windowsreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bluetooth-and-devices.jpgPress the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Bluetooth & devices on the left pane.
  3. Click on Devices.
  4. Hit the 3-dot icon next to your smartphone and select Remove device.
  5. Click Add device after removing your phone.
  6. Pair your phone.

Often there are some issues with the paired device, which could create trouble with features using the Bluetooth function. You can easily re-pair your phone with your laptop and check whether this fixes the issue.

3. Update the Bluetooth driver

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Device Manager.
  3. Expand the Bluetooth option.
  4. Double-click on your Bluetooth device.
  5. Switch to the Driver tab.
  6. Hit the Update driver button.
  7. Click on Search automatically for drivers option.Search automatically for drivers device manager has multiple processors
  8. Install the latest drivers if available.
  9. Restart your PC.

Chances are that the Bluetooth driver is corrupt or outdated, which is causing the issue. However, you can update the driver by following the above steps from the Device Manager.

However, you can also use a dedicated tool called Outbyte Driver Updater. Using Outbyte Driver Updater, you can easily update all drivers on your PC, perform schedule scans, create driver backups, and much more.

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4. Tweak the registry editor

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the below path. HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
  4. Open the EnableGoodbye entry on the right.
  5. Set the Value data to 1.
  6. Press OK.
  7. Restart your PC.

When you set the Value data to 1 for the EnableGoodbye entry in the registry, you enable the Dynamic Lock feature on your PC.

As already mentioned, the feature wasn’t enabled or showing for some users. Also, some users have reported that the Dynamic Lock feature is greyed out for them. However, this can be easily fixed by following the above steps.

5. Enable from Group Policy Editor

  1. Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
  3. Click on Computer Configuration on the left.
  4. Select Administrative Templates.
  5. Click on Windows Components.
  6. Select Windows Hello for Business.
  7. Open the Configure dynamic lock factors.
  8. Select Enabled.
  9. Click Apply and OK.
  10. Restart your PC.

You can also enable the Dynamic Lock feature on your PC from the group policy editor. This could also fix your issue of the Dynamic Lock feature not working.

6. Reset your PC

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Recovery.
  3. Hit the Reset PC button.
  4. Select the Keep my files option.
  5. Follow the onscreen prompts to finish the reset process.

If nothing works, you should reset your PC and check if this fixes the Dynamic Lock not working issue.

Sometimes main system files related to a feature get corrupt and cause issues. In such a case, you should reset the PC following the above steps and resolve the problem.

That is it from us in this guide. You can learn the steps to change the screen timeout settings in 5 different ways.

Let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions resolved the issue of the Dynamic Lock feature not working.

Latest Windows Insider Dev build adds hidden CloudPC connections

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft’s Windows 11 build 23419 seems to be testing several features under the hood. Aside from a new dedicated keyboard shortcut for the screen record feature in the Snipping Tool, the release also shipped with a hidden capability that will let users switch to a Cloud PC as spotted by XenoPanther on Twitter.

In the screenshot shared by the tipster, the settingshandlers_cloudpc.dll file is highlighted, confirming Xeno’s sentiments. This means, if Microsoft decides to release this new capability to general availability users will be able to transition from a host PC and a Cloud PC.

Another tipster, Albacore on Twitter, who’s also known for uncovering hidden features that Microsoft isn’t ready to announce publicly yet further disclosed that the feature is currently disabled in the registry.

The Twitter user however disclosed that it was possible for Windows Insiders to enable the feature. He went on to describe the offerings the new feature ships with, for instance, users will be able to determine what kind of resources they’d want the feature to access, with various toggles available including the Microphone, Camera, Location, USB portal, etc.

Microsoft has been gravitating toward AI and the cloud most recently, it even has its own dedicated cloud app, the Windows 365 app, designed to let Windows 11 users access cloud PCS conveniently from their devices. It recently hit general availability and is also available on the Microsoft Store.

While this might be a stretch, perhaps this could be Microsoft’s way of embracing new approaches thus giving way to bigger things, Windows 12 big! Ultimately allowing users to do more with less.

0x80240438: What is It & How to Quickly Fix It

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Many users have reported that they faced this issue while updating Windows OS or apps on Microsoft Store.

In this guide, we will discuss some expert-recommended solutions to fix the issue right after talking about the causes. 

What is 0x80240438?

0x80240438 is a Windows Update error code that typically indicates a problem with the Windows Update service or the associated software components. 

What causes the Windows Store error 0x80240438? 

There are various reasons why you see 0x80240438 while updating the computer; some of the common ones are mentioned here: 

  • Network connectivity issues – If your internet connection is slow or has a weak signal, it could prevent you from updating Windows apps, hence the error. 
  • Third-party security software interference – Third-party antivirus software can interfere with normal Windows functioning, including the update process. Therefore, you get this error. 
  • Damaged system files – If system files are corrupt or missing, it can prevent the Windows update service from running correctly. Hence you get this error. 
  • Old or incompatible drivers – If your device drivers are outdated or incompatible with your Windows version, it could cause all kinds of issues. 
  • Windows update service issue – If there are problems such as incorrect configuration, outdated components, or corrupted files, it can cause an error.

What can I do to fix the Windows Store error 0x80240438? 

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

1. Disable IPV6 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. CP
  2. Select Category as View by and click Network & Internet.Network & Internet CP
  3. Double-click the network connection, and on the next page, select Properties.Ethernet Properties open 0x80240438
  4. Remove the checkmark next to Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP / IPv6).IPV6 remove 0x80240438
  5. Click OK to confirm the changes.

2. Rename the Windows Store cache folder 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. 
  2. Type the following command, replace the username with the user account name, and click OK: C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.WindowsStore_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalState0x80240438 Run command to delete Cache
  3. Locate and select the Cache folder, and rename it to Cache.old.Cache old
  4. If you don’t find the folder, create a folder and name it Cache. 
  5. Press Windows + I to open Settings. 
  6. Go to System, and click Troubleshoot.System - Troubleshooter 0x80240438
  7. Now select Other troubleshooters.Other Troubleshooters
  8. Go to the Windows Store Apps and click Run. Troubleshoot 0x80240438
  9. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

3. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. 
  2. Go to System, and click Troubleshoot. System - Troubleshooter 0x80240438
  3. Now select Other troubleshooters.Other Troubleshooters
  4. Go to the Windows Store Apps and click Run. Troubleshoot
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

4. Disable BITS and delete the SoftwareDistribution folder

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.Services Run Command 0x80240438
  2. Type services.msc and click OK to open the Services app.
  3. Locate and right-click Background Intelligent Transfer Service and select Stop.BITS stop 0x80240438
  4. Press Windows + E to open Windows Explorer.
  5. Navigate to this path: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
  6. Select all the content in the SoftwareDistribution folder and click the Delete icon. Delete Software Distribution content - 0x80240438
  7. Now go to the Services app, right-click Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and select Start.START BITS

5. Clear Windows cache 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and click OK to reset the Windows Store cache. Windows store cache clear 0x80240438
  3. Once the process is finished, your Microsoft Store app will restart. 

6. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND 0x80240438
  2. Type Regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER \Software \Microsoft \Windows \CurrentVersion \Policies\WindowsUpdate
  4. Locate DisableWindowsUpdateAccess, and double-click it. Regedit 0x80240438
  5. Change the Value data from 1 to 0.
  6. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect. 

7. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.CMD elevated 0x80240438
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: sfc\scannow DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  3. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: netsh winhttp reset proxy net stop wuauserv net start wuauserv
  4. Restart your computer and check if the issue persists. 

So, these are methods you can follow to fix the 0x80240438 error on your Windows computer. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below. 

How to disable search suggestions on Edge Browser

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The auto-suggestions feature in the browser is a handy tool indeed. You type in a few words, and the search engine throws a slew of search suggestions at you as you type your query, right below your searchbox. Microsoft Edge, of course, offers something similar.

But the Edge browser can sometimes go overboard with its suggestions. This can be incredibly irritating if you know what you are looking for and therefore want to avoid getting distracted. Thankfully, with your Edge browser, you can eliminate these search suggestions if you no longer want to have them.

How to disable search suggestions on Microsoft Edge

Edge lets you disable automatic search suggestions in all of its different browsers, including the desktop and smartphone versions of the app. So let’s cover both versions right away.

Disabling search suggestions in Edge on your desktop

You can easily disable your search suggestions in your Edge desktop browser. Here’s how:

  1. Click on the three dots from the top-right corner.
  2. Head to the Settings.
  3. From the left-hand side, select Privacy, search, and services.
  4. Head to the Services section.
  5. Then, click on the Address bar and search settings.
  6. Finally, toggle off the show me search and site suggestions using my typed characters menu button.

privacy search suggestions

microsoft edge settings

Your additional search suggestions on your Microsoft Edge browser will be disabled from here on.

Disable search suggestion on Edge Android app

Just as you did on the Edge browser on your PC, you can similarly turn off automatic search suggestions on your Android Edge app. Here’s how:

  1. Select the three horizontal dots icon at the bottom of your Android browser.
  2. Click on the Settings menu.
  3. Head to Privacy and Security settings.
  4. Toggle off the Show me search and site suggestions using my typed characters button.

Your additional search suggestions on your Android will be similarly disabled with the app here.

Disabling search suggestions on Edge

Search suggestions are a helpful browser feature that can help you discover new information that’s tangential, if even slightly, to what you’re looking for. But you don’t always need a feature like that—naturally, this is where turning off the Edge search will make things easier for you. In fact, you can also do this with your Bing search suggestions as well.

Image via Bing Image Creator “an annoyed computer user in Cuphead cartoon style”

How to Fix Outlook Error 0x80040610 in 7 Simple Steps

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If you have encountered Outlook error 0x80040610, it will stop you from using Outlook even to send or receive emails. 

In this guide, we will discuss some potential fixes to get rid of this error code right after talking about probable causes. Let’s start! 

What causes the Outlook error 0x80040610 on Windows? 

There could be several reasons why you got this error code on Outlook; some of the common ones are: 

  • Weak internet connection – If your internet connection is unstable, you might get this error. Check the speed of your internet and contact your ISP to fix it.
  • Malware infection – Viruses on your computer might cause all kinds of issues, including this one. You need to run a deep scan using reliable antivirus software to remove the infection. 
  • Large and malicious emails – If you have malicious and large emails in your mailbox, you might see this error. Go through your emails and delete the unwanted ones.
  • Incorrect settings – If your email settings are misconfigured, you might not be able to send or receive emails and get this error code. 
  • Outlook data file is corrupt – If the Outlook data file is damaged, you might not be able to access emails, notes, and contacts on Outlook, hence the error. 

What can I do to fix the Outlook error 0x80040610 on Windows? 

Before moving to the actual troubleshooting steps, go through these preliminary checks: 

  • Check your internet connection.
  • Delete the large and suspicious emails.

1. Disable Windows Firewall and Antivirus temporarily 

1.1 Disable Windows Firewall

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. CP 0x80040610
  2. Select View by as Category and click System & Security. System Security CP
  3. Click Windows Defender Firewall.WDF
  4. Now click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.Turn OFF 0x80040610
  5. Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended) for Public and Private network settings.Firewall off and OK
  6. Click OK to save changes.

1.2 Turn off Real-time protection

  1. Press the Windows key, type Windows Security, and click Open. Windows Security open
  2. Go to Virus & threat protection and click Manage Settings. Manage settings 0x80040610
  3. Toggle off the switch for Real-time protection. Real time protection off2

2. Start Outlook in Safe mode 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. OUTLOOK SAFE MODE
  2. Type Outlook.exe /safe and click OK to open Outlook in safe mode. 
  3. Try using Outlook now to send or receive emails; if you see issues, the PST file might be damaged. 

3. Check Outlook email account settings 

  1. Go to Outlook, and click File.File 0x80040610
  2. Then click Account Settings from the drop-down, and select Account Settings. Account Settings
  3. On the Account Settings window, click Change. Change Account
  4. Click More Settings, and go to the Outgoing server tab. More settings
  5. Place a checkmark next to My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication.
  6. Also, click on the checkmark next to Log on to the incoming server before sending mail. SMTP 0x80040610
  7. Restart the Outlook app. You can delete the settings and reconfigure the email account settings. 

4. Repair the Outlook app

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. 
  2. Select View by as Category and click Programs.Programs 0x80040610
  3. Choose Programs and Features, and click Uninstall a program. Uninstall a program
  4. Select Microsoft Office and click Change.Change OFfice 0x80040610
  5. Click Repair to start the process.Repair
  6. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process. 

5. Fix the PST file with the Repair tool

  1. Close the Outlook app. Press Windows + E to open Windows Explorer. 
  2. Navigate to this path: C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16Scan 0x80040610
  3. Locate and double-click the SCANPST.EXE file to run the Inbox Repair tool.Start
  4. Click Start. The tool will run a scan and shows you the error in the folders.

6. Change Server Timeout

  1. On the Outlook app, click File. 
  2. Click Account Settings, then click Account Settings.Account Settings 0x80040610
  3. Select Change. Change Account
  4. Click More Settings. More settings
  5. Now click Advanced, and use the slider for Server Timeouts to increase its value. 
  6. Click OK.

7. Create a new Outlook profile 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. 
  2. Select View by as Small icons and click Mail (Microsoft Outlook). Mail 0x80040610
  3. Now, click Show Profiles.Show profiles
  4. Select Add button. Add profile
  5. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the setup. 
  6. Again in the Control Panel, go to Mail, then click Show Profiles.
  7. Select Always use this profile to set it as the default profile.Always use 0x80040610

So, these are methods that you can follow to fix Outlook error code 0x80040610. Please let us know in the comments section below if you have questions or concerns about this error code. We will be happy to help! 

0x800f0984: How to Fix This Windows Update Error

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If you have encountered error code 0x800f0984 while updating your Windows 10 computer, this guide can help! We will discuss some available methods to resolve the problem right after examining the causes. Let’s start! 

What causes the Windows update error 0x800f0984? 

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

  • Your PC is on a Power saving plan – If your computer is on a power-saving plan to conserve battery and timing, this could make some system components perform less. 
  • Corrupted system files – If the system files are missing, deleted, or damaged, you might get this update error. You need to repair system files using Command Prompt.
  • Damaged Windows update components – If any of the Windows update folders, including Catroot2, and Software Distribution, you might not be able to update Windows. 

What can I do to fix the Windows update error 0x800f0984?

1. Run a Windows troubleshooter 

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. 
  2. Go to Update & Security. Update & Security 0x800f0984
  3. Select Troubleshoot from the left pane and click Additional troubleshooters.Additional troubleshooters
  4. Now select Windows update and click Run the troubleshooter. Run the troubleshooter Windows update
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

2. Install update manually 

  1. Open the preferred browser and visit the Microsoft website Windows 10 section.
  2. Go to the latest Windows update section and click Update now. Update now Windows 10
  3. The update will get downloaded. Once done, right-click the file and select Run as administrator.Run AS ADMIN 0x800f0984
  4. Now follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. 

3. Modify the power plan

  1. Go to the Search bar, type Control Panel, and click Open. Control Panel search bar Windows 10 0x800f0984
  2. Select Large icons as View by and click Power options. Power options CP 0x800f0984
  3. Click Create a power plan.Create a new plan 0x800f0984
  4. Next, choose High Performance; under Plan name, enter a name if you want and click Next. NExt plan
  5. Now click Create, and you will have a new power plan. Try to update Windows now. Create

4. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Go to the Search bar, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. 
  2. Type the following command to repair system files and press Enter: sfc\scannowScan now Windows 10 0x800f0984
  3. Next, copy and paste the following commands one by one to repair your Windows image, and press Enter after every command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Restart your computer. 

5. Reset Windows components 

  1. Go to the Search bar, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. CMD1 0x800f0984
  2. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: net stop bits net stop wuauserv net stop appidsvc net stop cryptsvc Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader*.*" rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll netsh winsock reset netsh winsock reset proxy net start bits net start wuauserv net start appidsvc net start cryptsvc
  3. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.

6. Perform System Restore 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. CP
  2. Select Category as View by and click Recovery.Recovery Windows 10 0x800f0984
  3. Click Open System Restore. System restore
  4. On the System Restore window, click Next. Next Restore point 0x800f0984
  5. Select the restore point and click Next. Restore your computer
  6. Click Finish, and your computer will be restored to the chosen point. Restore

7. Perform in-place upgrade 

  1. Go to the Windows 10 website.
  2. Under Create Windows 10 installation media, select Download tool now. Create Windows 10 media 0x800f0984
  3. Right-click the setup file that you downloaded, and select Run as administrator. On the setup page, click the Accept button on the license.accept-windows-10-repair-upgrade 0x800f0984
  4. On the What do you want to do page, select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.Setup Upgrade this PC now
  5. Now setup will download Windows 10. On the next page, click Accept.Accept
  6. Select the Keep personal files and apps option and click Next.Next 0x800f0984
  7. Now, save and close any open apps and files you may be running, and when you’re ready, select Install.

So, these are methods you need to follow to fix the Windows update error 0x800f0984. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below. 

What is 0x8004011c in Outlook & How to Fix it

Posted on by Claire Moraa

0x8004011c is a common error for Microsoft Outlook users. This error message usually appears when you try to set up a new email account from a domain. Unfortunately, outlook errors are common; sometimes, the app won’t even open in your Windows 11. 

Users are stalled at creating a new email account for this particular error despite numerous attempts. Therefore, we take a closer look at what causes this issue and how to resolve it.

What is 0x8004011c in Outlook?

0x8004011c is a common error code you can get while using Microsoft Outlook. It is associated with connecting to an Exchange Server, which means there is a problem with the server. 

This issue prevents you from connecting your email account, you can’t send or receive emails from your Outlook account. From a majority of the reports, this issue happened to users using a domain account.

Some of the leading causes behind this error include the following:

  • Connection issues – Your internet connection may be too slow and can’t facilitate the creation of a new account.
  • Server issues – Microsoft servers may be busy or overloaded when you are trying to create an account.

How do I fix error 0x8004011c in Outlook?

A few basic workarounds that may save the day without the need for technical solutions include:

1. Uninstall recent Windows updates 

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Windows Update and select Update history on the right pane.update-history restart to repair drive errors
  3. Scroll down, and under Related settings, click on Uninstall updates.uninstall-updates-w11 computer-recognize-logitech-unifying-receiver
  4. This will take you to the most recent installed updates.
  5. Select the topmost update and click on Uninstall.uninstall-update-latest computer-recognize-logitech-unifying-receiver
  6. Restart your PC and check if the problem persists.

2. Run the program compatibility troubleshooter

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar, and click Open.control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  2. Click on Troubleshooting.
  3. Select Programs.
  4. Click on Program Compatibility Troubleshooter, then hit Next.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and choose the appropriate response when prompted to complete the process.

The program compatibility troubleshooter helps you to diagnose and fix issues when a program fails to run correctly. It will check for problems caused by compatibility issues between your program and Windows and fixes them automatically.

3. Remove compatibility restrictions

  1. Hit the Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the following location. Please note that this is the default folder location for most apps, so if you moved it, it might not be here: C:\Program Files (x86) or C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office
  3. Locate the Outlook.exe file, right-click on it, and select Properties.right-click on outlook.exe and click properties.
  4. Navigate to the Compatibility tab and uncheck the Run this program in compatibility mode for option.
  5. Click on Apply, then OK to save the changes.

4. Edit the Registry 

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type regedit in the dialog box and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Cryptography\Protect\Providers\df9d8cd0-1501-11d1-8c7a-00c04fc297eb
  4. Right-click on an empty space on the right side, select New DWORD (32bit) and rename it as ProtectionPolicy.
  5. Double-click on it to modify then; in the Value data entry, enter 1, then hit OK.
  6. Close the Registry Editor and try creating the email account again.

At this point, we have to mention that the Registry Editor is a very critical component of Windows, and any edits made can have a ripple effect on the performance and stability of your OS. If anything goes wrong, you risk causing your PC irreversible damage.

To cushion yourself from crippling effects, we recommend that you create a restore point so that you can have a point of return. You can also seek assistance from a tech expert if you’re not conversant with how things work.

5. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui, and hit Enter.
  2. Select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
  3. Now click on Finish.

Remember, you must have created a restore point before this step; otherwise, this won’t work. 

That’s all we had for this article, and hopefully, at this point, there will be no more issues when you try to create an email account. If so, we recommend that you contact Microsoft support for further assistance. 

If you want to change or remove your primary account from Outlook, we share a step-by-step process on how to go about it.

For any comments, queries, or suggestions, leave a comment below.

0x80004003: What Does it Mean & How to Fix it

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Every Windows user has their favorite app, but the Microsoft Store should be at the top of that list because you may not be able to download other apps without it. Granted, you can still sideload apps on your Windows 11, but this comes at a risk.

Apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store have passed rigorous checks that ensure they are safe. However, the error 0x80004003 can be frustrating, as it prevents users from downloading apps. If you’ve encountered this error, we share how to bypass it in this article.

What does this error code mean, 0x80004003?

The 0x80004003 error code occurs when users try to launch the Microsoft Store application on their Windows PCs. It may be triggered by one or more of the following reasons:

  • Corrupt update – If you’ve recently updated your OS, it is possible one of the installation files had an issue stopping Microsoft Store from working.
  • Bugs in the app  – It is also possible that the Microsoft Store has somehow ended up with a bug. This could be through Windows updates or in-app updates.
  • Cache build-up –  If you’ve been using the Microsoft Store for a while, too much cache may prevent you from launching the app.

How do I fix error code 0x80004003?

Before any complex solutions, try the following basic checks first:

  • First, ensure you’re using a legitimate copy of Windows and that it is activated. Pirated copies don’t usually get regular updates and may not function as well as the original version.
  • Check for any Windows updates and download and install if available.
  • Roll back a previous Windows update, especially if this issue began after updating.
  • Uninstall any recently installed app that may be conflicting with the Microsoft Store.
  • Restart your PC to eliminate any temporary files that may prevent Microsoft Store from launching.

1. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter 

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System and select Troubleshoot.Open system troubleshooter
  3. Navigate to Other troubleshooters.other troubleshooters
  4. Click the Run option for the Windows Update troubleshooter.windows-update-run-troubleshooter runtimebroker.exe error

2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter 

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System and select Troubleshoot.Open system troubleshooter
  3. Navigate to Other troubleshooters.other troubleshooters
  4. Click the Run option for the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.clicking run windows store apps troubleshooter

3. Disable antivirus temporarily 

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

4. Repair Windows Store and update components 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each one: net stop bits net stop wuauserv net stop appidsvc net stop cryptsvc Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*" rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll netsh winsock reset netsh winsock reset proxy net start bits net start wuauserv net start appidsvc net start cryptsv

5. Clear Microsoft Store cache

  1. Hit the Windows search icon.
  2. Type WSReset.exe in the search bar and hit Run as administrator.

6. Repair/reset the Microsoft Store 

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Apps on the left pane, then Apps & features on the right pane.
  3. Locate the Microsoft Store app, click the three vertical ellipses, and select Advanced options.going advanced options microsoft store
  4. Click on Repair.
  5. Go back and click on Reset if the repair option fails.

You may find that the Microsoft Store is missing the Apps and features, so here’s a quick guide on how to go about it.

7. Reinstall the Microsoft Store

  1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Type Powershell in the search bar and click Run as administrator.
  3. Enter the following command: Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"

8. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui, and hit Enter.
  2. Select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
  3. Now click on Finish.

This step may fail if you have not created a restore point. When there’s no previous point to roll back to, the System Restore will not work.

Unfortunately, this is not the last of Microsoft Store errors. They are in plenty and may appear from time to time. Luckily, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the most common ones and how you can quickly address them.

You may also encounter an issue where Microsoft Store is downloading, but there is no progress. If so, don’t hesitate to visit our detailed guide on how to fix this problem.

Do let us know if there’s a solution that may have helped you avert this error but missing from our list above.

NET HELPMSG 2184: How to Fix This Service Error

Posted on by Claire Moraa

The net view command is a built-in command in Windows OS. It is used to display shared resources on a computer.

Net view has two modes: server mode, which shows only servers, and workstation mode, which ensures access to all computers on the network and the servers.

This command helps troubleshoot and diagnose network problems. You’ll probably get a net view service not started message when you run it. A net helpmsg 2185 or net helpmsg 2182 may also be on the horizon. Let’s have a closer look at what this means.

Why is the net view not working?

To use the net view command, you must be logged in to a domain controller or have access to an account that has been granted permission. You’ll keep getting error messages if you don’t meet these requirements.

Unfortunately, when you get the net view service not started message, it does not specify the exact service that has to be started. So you may have to get into a guessing game until you figure out the service and restart it.

Other reasons why the command may not be working include the following:

  • Insufficient permissions – You may not have permission to view the remote computer, or you are not logged in as an administrator.
  • Server unavailability – The server you are trying to access may be inactive on your network segment or moved to another segment.
  • Different domains – Net view can only display computers that are part of the same domain or workgroup. If the remote computer isn’t in your domain, you won’t be able to see it using net view.
  • Network connectivity problems – If there are network connectivity problems between your computer and the remote device, you may be unable to communicate.

How do I resolve the net helpmsg 2184 service error?

There are a few things you can try to troubleshoot this error.

  • Ensure your computer is connected to the internet. Also, if you’re using a VPN, you may have to disable it.
  • If you’re not connected to the internet, try restarting your modem or router.
  • Run Windows update to ensure you have all the latest updates installed on your computer.
  • Ensure all your computers are under the same workgroup.

If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t resolve your issue, please continue with the following steps:

1. Restart the Server service 

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.run services.msc command
  3. Locate the Server service, double-click on it, and select Properties.
  4. Navigate to the General tab, and under Startup type, select Automatic from the drop-down options and click on the Start button.
  5. Next, click Apply and then OK.

When there are problems with the Server service, your computer might be unable to connect to other computers on your network. It also depends on the workstation service, so you may need to restart it too.

2. Restart the Workstation service

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.run services.msc command
  3. Locate Workstation service, double-click on it, and select Properties.
  4. Navigate to the General tab, and under Startup type, select Automatic from the drop-down options and click on the Start button.
  5. Next, click Apply and then OK.

The workstation service provides seamless integration between the local computer and remote servers. However, since most computers on the remote server depending on the workstation service to run, it is important to restart it in case the connection is lost.

3. Turn on network sharing

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar, and click Open.control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  2. Click on Programs.
  3. Select Turn Windows Features on or off under Programs and Features.
  4. In the Windows Features dialog box that pops up, check the SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support option and click OK to save the changes.

A section of users also admitted to restarting the computer browser service as a remedy to net helpmsg 2184. However, the Computer Browser service is an old Windows service and may not be available in newer versions.

Although it’s not widely used, some computers may still use it for their networks. If available on your PC, you can follow the subsequent steps to restart it. 

The service has already been implemented in the Server service for newer versions, so you have nothing to worry about if you have already restarted it. However, in case you run into the Computer Browser Service depends on Server service error, we have the answers in our comprehensive article.

And that’s how we wrap up this article. Share any additional thoughts with us in the comment section below.

Discord Awaiting Endpoint: What is it & How to Fix it

Posted on by Cesar Cadenas

Discord has established itself as a must-have for gamers looking to find communities for their favorite titles. It’s so big that major gaming publishers like Sony are integrating it into their consoles.

And there’s one particular Discord error that you should know about. It’s called the Awaiting Endpoint Error, where you try to connect to a server or call to be stuck in an endless load screen.

What causes the Awaiting Endpoint error?

Awaiting Endpoint is a relatively common problem on Discord because many things can cause it. The following list is not extensive; however, it does cover the more common causes.

  • Your Windows 11 computer is out of date – Having an out-of-date computer can lead to various compatibility problems with apps. Downloading Windows 11 ISO is the fastest way to update.
  • There is a server outage on Discord – Although rare, Discord’s servers can go offline. When this happens, there’s nothing you can do but wait. Also, it’s often the reason behind Discord Error 1105.
  • Your internet is experiencing some downtime – If your internet connection is running slowly, it can affect Discord. We recommend running the Network Troubleshooter. See if it helps.
  • There’s some kind of network connection issue going on – Likewise, the problem could be with your internet service provider (ISP). You may have to wait until the service returns.
  • Windows Firewall is blocking Discord – Windows Firewall can be pretty good at blocking malware, but it can also be a little overzealous and mess with your apps.

How can I fix the Discord Awaiting Endpoint error?

Fortunately, there are many solutions when it comes to fixing the Awaiting Endpoint error. First, you have simple solutions that can be done quickly to more complex fixes if it’s a bad situation.

  • The first thing you can do is restart Discord and your computer. Closing Discord typically may not work. If this happens, shut down the app via the Task Manager.
  • Double-check your internet connection. There could be something wrong with your at-home network. Contact your ISP and see if there’s any throttling.
  • Additionally, you can try restarting your router and modem by powering off the devices, then powering them back on. That should work.
  • Try updating the Discord app. This can be done quickly by clicking on the app, then pressing the Ctrl and R keys to refresh Discord.
  • We also recommend using some file recovery software. There could be something missing from your computer’s files causing the connection issue.
  • See if Discord is down. There are numerous resources online, one of the best being Discord Status. It’ll tell you if all systems are operational or something is down.

1. Change the Discord server region

  1. On Discord, go to the server you’re unable to connect to or one you moderate.
  2. Click the down-facing arrow at the top. Select Server Settings.
  3. Go to the Overview tab under notes.
  4. Click Change in the Server Region box, then switch the server to another location.

Recent updates to Discord have removed the ability to change the server region, so you may not see this. Also, try reaching out to a server admin and see if they could make the fix for you.

2. Flush DNS on Windows 11

  1. Bring up the Command Prompt in the Windows 11 Search bar. Select Run as administrator.
  2. In the line prompt, enter the following command: ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Wait a few seconds, after which you will get a confirmation message.
  4. If that doesn’t work, launch PowerShell with the same administrator-level permissions.
  5. Type in the following command and run it: Clear-DnsClientCache
  6. The final method involves the DNS client. Launch the Services app.
  7. Right-click DNS Client, and in the context menu, select Refresh. Give the software enough time to complete the process.

You can try running a batch script if you can’t achieve admin-level permissions to flush out DNS. But first, read our guide on how to flush DNS without admin rights.

3. Reset TCP/IP

  1. First, check what kind of IP address you have. You can do this by opening the Windows 11 Settings menu, going to the Network & internet tab, and selecting Wi-Fi.
  2. Under your Wi-Fi’s properties, check your IP address. In this example, the computer has an IPv4 address.
  3. Now launch with the Command Prompt with the same admin-level permissions as before.
  4. In the prompt line, enter the following commands one after the other: cd\ netsh int ip reset c:\resetlog.txt
  5. If you have an IPv4 address, type in NETSH INT IPV4 RESET
  6. For an IPv6 address, enter NETSH INT IPV6 RESET

4. Reinstall Discord

  1. In the Settings menu, go to the App section and select Install apps.
  2. Locate Discord in the installed apps list. Then, click the three dots to the right and select Uninstall.
  3. Now go to Discord’s web page and download the app again.

5. Add firewall permissions for Discord

  1. In the Windows Search bar, bring up Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Select Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall in the new window that appears.
  3. Click the Change settings button at the top, then Allow another app.
  4. In the new window, click Browse. Locate Discord in your system’s files. It should be in your C: drive.
  5. Once located, click Add, and Discord will appear in the list of allowed apps.

What can I do if Discord randomly crashes?

Some users have experienced Discord randomly crashing in the middle of a call. This may be because of insufficient RAM, corrupt files, or an outdated operating system.

To fix this issue, we recommend any number of things. First, you can try disabling the Hardware Acceleration tool or deleting your computer’s temporary files. That should boost performance.

Recently, Discord launched a new AI companion called Clyde, a chatbot that can create music playlists, send GIFs to people, and give movie recommendations.

You can now try Clyde by joining Discord’s Alpha Insider Program and enabling the AI. However, be aware that AI isn’t perfect. It’s prone to a lot of errors.

Feel free to comment below if you have other Discord problems. Also, leave comments below about reviews you’d like to see or information on other communications software.

Microsoft Designer Not Working? Fix It in 6 Easy Steps

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If the Designer option on Microsoft Powerpoint doesn’t work, then this guide can help! We will discuss some of the easiest methods to get rid of this problem right after talking about the causes. Let’s get started!

What causes the Microsoft Designer not working issue?

There could be various reasons why you face this issue; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

  • Outdated version of PowerPoint – The Design Ideas option is available on the latest version of PowerPoint or with a Microsoft 365 subscription. If you don’t have any of these two, the designer might not work.
  • Mixed shapes in a slide – If there is more than one shape or picture on your slide, the designer will not work. Keep one image or shape on a slide, and you will get the designer option again.
  • Exceeded the number of Images, Tables, or Charts allowed on the slide – If you add a number of images, tables, or charts that exceeds the set value, then you might face this issue. For example, you can add 6-10 images (depending on the size), one table, and one chart on a slide and you can access the Designer feature.
  • Custom slide or template – If you are using a custom slide or template, you might not see the Designer section. Use the default/ blank slide or template to get design ideas for your slide.
  • No internet connection – If you are not connected to the Internet, the Design Ideas feature will not work. Therefore, check for an internet connection before using the feature.
  • Not set to Automatically show – If the Automatically show me design ideas option is not selected in PowerPoint options, then you might not see the Designer section.

What can I do to fix the Microsoft Designer not working issue?

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

  • Check your internet connection.
  • Make sure you have the latest version of PowerPoint or a Microsoft 365 subscription.
  • Use a theme that comes with PowerPoint.
  • Ensure a single slide is selected in the thumbnail pane in Normal view.
  • Make sure the file type is not PowerPoint Macro-Enabled Presentation (.pptm).

1. Check if someone else is editing

If you are co-authoring the presentation with someone else and more than one person is working on a single slide at one time, the Designer would not give you Design Ideas on that slide.

Wait for them to finish, and make sure you are the only person editing the slide. Then, you will see design options on the slide when you add an image, table, or chart to the slide.

2. Enable the Automatically show me design ideas option

  1. On PowerPoint, go to File.File option
  2. Click Options.Options
  3. Select General from the left pane.
  4. Under PowerPoint Designer, locate Automatically show me design ideas and place a checkmark next to it.POWERPNT_wmicrosoft designer not working
  5. Also, place a checkmark next to the Automatically show me suggestions when I create a new presentation option.
  6. Click OK to save changes.

3. Don’t use slides with pictures or process-based slide

You should only use the default layouts, including Title, Title + Content slide, Section Header, Title Only, Two Content, and Picture with Caption, to avoid any issues. Don’t use additional photos, shapes, or objects on a single slide as an image. Also, make sure the images added to the slide are not more than 6 and are larger than 200*200 pixels in size.

Designer can’t show you design ideas if a shape or text box is added to the slide. Make sure you don’t do any of these if trying to get design suggestions.

4. Enable Office connected experiences

  1. Click File.
  2. Go to Account.Account microsoft designer not working
  3. Under Account Privacy, click Manage Settings.Manage settings
  4. Under Connected Experiences, place a checkmark next to Turn on experiences that analyze your content.Connected experiences
  5. Click OK to save the changes.

5. PowerPoint Designer’s 10-6-1-1-1 Content Rule

Design Ideas feature is a relatively new feature and can only generate slide layout ideas for some PowerPoint objects, and that too in fixed numbers.

For example, you can only add 10 or 6 images (depending on the size), 1 table, 6 icons, 1 SmartArt graphic, or 1 chart on a single slide.

Also, you can’t mix and match these shapes or objects and should not use large-size images on the slide.

6. Reinstall Office

6.1 Uninstall Office

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.CP
  2. Select Category for View by and click Programs.CP Uninstall microsoft designer not working
  3. Under Programs and feature, select Uninstall a program.Uninstall a program
  4. From the list of programs, select Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365 and click Uninstall button.Uninstall

6.2 Install Office

  1. Visit to Office official website and select Sign in if not already signed in.
  2. On your account, click Install or Install apps.install apps microsoft designer not working
  3. The Office setup will be downloaded on your computer, and to install it, follow the onscreen instructions.

So, these are the methods that you need to follow to fix the Microsoft Designer not working issue. If you have any questions about the design ideas on PowerPoint, feel free to mention them in the comments section below. We will be happy to help!

Here’s the fastest way to use Windows Studio Effects on Windows 11

Posted on by davew

As a Windows 11 user, you may have noticed that the operating system comes with a variety of features and tools to enhance your multimedia experience. One of these features is Windows Studio Effects, a collection of AI filters and effects that can be applied to video calls.

When Panos Panay announced the Windows 11 2022 Update, Windows Studio Effects was included. However, in order to use the new features, you need the correct required hardware that supports it, namely a PC running with a neural processing unit (NPU), a specialized processing chip that only recently has been included with Snapdragon (ARM-based) PCs.

Please note: At the time of this writing, only two machines can access these special features included in Windows Studio Effects: the Surface Pro 9 or the Lenovo ThinkPad x13s, the best ARM laptop in ages. If you don’t have one of these machines or your camera hardware does not support it, you may not be able to access the Windows Studio Effects features described in this guide.

If you’re looking to enhance and improve your video calls or you’re simply curious about what Windows Studio Effects can do, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll show you how to use Windows Studio Effects in Windows 11.

What are Windows Studio Effects?

Windows Studio Effects is a powerful software tool that comes with the Windows operating system. It allows you to add visual effects to your videos, images, and other multimedia content, making them more engaging and dynamic. Here are the four Windows Studio Effects available, 3 for the camera and one for the microphone:

  1. Automatic framing: This feature automatically keeps you in frame and in focus on camera.
  2. Background effects (blur): This effect allows you to blur your background between a standard blur and a softer portrait blur.
  3. Eye contact: This camera effect was introduced on the Surface Pro X and uses AI algorithms make it seem like you are making eye contact when you are actually looking at your computer screen during a video call.
  4. Voice focus: This microphone effect filters out background voices and noises to make sure that your voice is heard clearly.

Windows Studio Effects via Quick Settings

The quickest and easiest way to access Windows Studio Effects is via Quick Settings. This a relatively new way to access this feature, but it is the fastest way to access and change Studio Effects settings on the fly. Just make sure you are running Windows 11 build 22621.1344 (released on Feb. 28) or higher and follow these steps:

  1. Click the notification area to open Quick Settings. This is where you see the network, sound, and battery icons on the right of your taskbar.
  2. Click Studio effects. windows studio effects
  3. Under the camera icon for Studio effects, you will see the options available that include Background effect, where you can choose between standard or portrait blur, Eye contact, and Automatic framing to always keep you in focus all without leaving Quick Settings. windows studio effects
  4. Under the microphone icon, you can turn on or off Voice focus, so that your voice is the only voice your viewers can hear regardless of background distractions. windows studio effects

If you don’t see the Studio effects option on your computer, you may need to add the button manually. Click the pencil icon at the bottom of the Quick Settings panel, click Add and choose Studio effects and don’t forget to click Done when you are finished. windows studio effectsIf you don’t see the option to add Studio effects, your PC likely does not have the required hardware to run it.

View more Windows Studio Effects in Settings

Another way you can access Windows Studio Effects is by using the full Settings app in Windows 11. This method is not as quick and easy as using Quick Settings as the camera and microphone options are located in different areas within Settings. Here’s what you need to do in Settings:

To enable Windows Studio effects for the camera:

  1. Open Settings (Windows key + i keyboard shortcut).
  2. Navigate to Bluetooth & devices > Cameras.
  3. Select the webcam you want to use. I have the Lenovo ThinkPad x13s, which only has one front-facing camera (AI Front Camera), but the Surface Pro 9 has two webcams, so there might be different camera effects options available. windows studio effects
  4. Enable the camera effects that you want to use and check the preview video at the top to refine how you want your video to appear when you’re on a video call. windows studio effects

Unfortunately, to enable Voice focus you need to go to a separate area in Settings, but it is pretty easy to do, just use the following steps:

  1. In Settings, go to System > Sound.
  2. Under Input, be sure to that the Qualcomm Audio device on your machine, in my case the Lenovo x13s, is set as the input for audio.  windows studio effects
  3. Click the Qualcomm Audio device to edit its properties and scroll to the bottom under Input settings and make sure that Audio enhancements are set to Microsoft Windows Studio Voice Focus and the toggle next to Voice Focus is turned on. windows studio effects
  4. Close the Settings app once you are finished.

Windows Studio Effects is only one of many features added, but be sure to check out everything that’s included in Windows 11 2022 Update. Want to learn a new feature to use? Check out how to use file tabs in File Explorer with Windows 11 2022.

RasMan Service Stopped? How to Enable It Again

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If, after updating your Windows 10 computer, the RasMan service has stopped, then this guide can help! We will cover all the potential fixes to eliminate the problem and its causes. Let’s start! 

What causes the RasMan service stopped issue? 

There could be various reasons for the remote access connection manager service to stop; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

What can I do if the RasMan service stopped?

1. Update your Windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to the Update & Security option.Update & Security
  3. Click Windows update from the left pane and click Check for updates.Windows update check for updates rasman service stopped
  4. Download and install the updates if available. Your computer will prompt you when it needs to be restarted. Please save your work before you restart.

2. Use the Group Policy Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.GPEDIT rasman service stopped
  2. Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\ Windows Components\ Data Collection and Preview Builds\ Allow TelemetryAllow Telemtry 2
  4. Double-click on Allow Telemetry and make sure it is Enabled.
  5. Select the security level from Basic, Enhanced, or Full.Allow telemetry 3
  6. Click Apply and then OK. 
  7. Now open the Run box again, type services.msc, and click OK to open the Services app.
  8. Locate and double-click Remote Access Connection Manager to open Properties.
  9. Select Startup type as Automatic and Service status as Start.
  10. Click Apply, then OK.

3. Use the Settings app

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click Privacy.Privacy rasman service stopped
  3. Select Diagnostics and feedback from the left pane.
  4. Under Diagnostic data, choose either Required diagnostic data or Optional diagnostic data.Diagnostic Data
  5. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  6. Type services.msc, and click OK to open Services.Services Run Command
  7. Locate and double-click Remote Access Connection Manager to open Properties.rasman service stopped
  8. Select Startup type as Automatic and Service status as Start.Service start
  9. Click Apply, then OK.

4. Use the Registry Editor

4.1 If the AllowTelemetry DWORD is present

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type Regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor. 
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection
  4. Double-click the AllowTelemetry entry and modify the Value data to 1 for Basic, 2 for Enhanced, and 3 For Full.Regedit Rasman service stopped
  5. Click OK and restart your computer to confirm the changes.
  6. Now restart the Remote Access Connection Manager service using the steps mentioned in method 3.

4.2  If the AllowTelemetry DWORD is not present

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. 
  2. Type Regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor. 
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection
  4. Select Data Collection, right-click it, and choose New, then DWORD(32-bit) value.Data Collection New key -rasman service stopped
  5. Name it AllowTelemetry and change its Value data to 1 for Basic, 2 for Enhanced, and 3 For Full.
  6. Click OK and restart your computer to save the changes.Regedit Rasman service stopped
  7. Now restart the Remote Access Connection Manager service.

5. Restore the default startup configuration

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.Command Prompt Windows Run as Administrator rasman service stopped
  2. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: sc config RasMan start= auto sc start RasMan
  3. Exit Command Prompt and restart your PC to let the changes take effect.

So, these are the methods you must follow to fix the RasMan service stopped issue. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.

Xbox Free Play Days: Far Cry 5, Marvel’s Midnight Suns and more

Posted on by Robert Collins

Xbox Free Play Days is back this week with another fantastic lineup of games for subscribers of Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Below you’ll find the complete games lineup for this week’s Xbox Free Play Days event, available from Thursday through Sunday, March 26th.

Far Cry 5

Celebrate the fifth anniversary of one of the most acclaimed games in the long-running Far Cry franchise and get up to 85% off the standard edition!

Welcome to Hope County, Montana, the land of the free and brave, but also the home of a fanatical doomsday cult. Stand up to cult leader Joseph Seed and his siblings, the Heralds, to spark the fires of resistance and liberate the besieged community.

Play solo or two-player co-op in the vast open world of Hope County. Use a vast arsenal of weapons from rocket launchers to shovels, and take control of iconic muscle cars, ATVs, planes, and more to engage the cult forces in epic fights.

Bassmaster Fishing: 2022 Bassmaster Classic

Play the 2022 Bassmaster Classic® today! Get ready to experience the thrill of competitive big bass fishing and the official Lake Hartwell 2022 Bassmaster Classic in Bassmaster® Fishing 2022 Classic Edition. Dive into the fully licensed content from the Bassmaster series from amateur to elite events. Manage your sponsors, equip your dream setup, and customise the look of your angler to tackle the Bassmaster series.

Marvel’s Midnight Suns Enhanced Edition

When the demonic Lilith and her fearsome horde unite with the evil armies of Hydra, it’s time to unleash Marvel’s dark side. As The Hunter, your mission is to lead an unlikely team of seasoned Super Heroes and dangerous supernatural warriors to victory. Can legends such as Doctor Strange, Iron Man, and Blade put aside their differences in the face of a growing apocalyptic threat? If you’re going to save the world, you’ll have to forge alliances and lead the team into battle as the legendary Midnight Suns.

With an array of upgradeable characters and skills allowing you to build your own unique version of The Hunter, you will choose how to send Lilith’s army back to the underworld.

Wrap up

That’s a pretty exciting lineup of games on the slate for this week’s Xbox Free Play Days. Also, these games are discounted on the Xbox Store during the event. If you’d like to learn more then head on over to the Xbox Free Play Days FAQ page.

WhatsApp rolls out new Windows client with improved group calling features

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

WhatsApp, the widely-used messaging application owned by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is offering a newly improved desktop application for Windows. It features, among other things, group video calling access to all users.

Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg made a statement on Facebook announcing the launch of a Windows application for WhatsApp. This application will enable desk-based users to make end-to-end encrypted video calls with up to eight people concurrently and allow audio calls with a maximum of 32 attendees. The company asserted that they plan to expand the capacity of group calls moving forward.

With this move, the instant messaging giant is seeking to bolster its presence in the instant messaging and corporate communication sphere with its new Windows app, which has been designed with a familiar user interface for effortless usage and swift loading times. This puts it on par with other popular platforms like Slack and video conferencing applications such as Zoom and Google Meet.

Earlier this week, WhatsApp announced two new updates that focus on groups. The first allows group admins to view requests to join their groups in the “Pending Participants” section, while the second makes it simpler to find shared groups within search results by displaying them when a name is looked up. Before these changes, users had to go to a contact’s profile to identify common groups.

Furthermore, the WhatsApp experience is now more streamlined, allowing users to sync multiple devices simultaneously and thus making it a more convenient experience to carry conversations over device interfaces with ease.

Also, If you’re looking for assistance with using WhatsApp on your Windows desktop, we have compiled a comprehensive guide for you to refer to. If you have any inquiries or comments you’d like to share, we’d love to hear them in the comments section.

Outlook Has Encountered an Error: 5 Methods to Fix It

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

Some of our readers reported that they received the Outlook has encountered an error that is preventing it from working properly message after logging into their app. Others have also signaled that Outlook keeps crashing, but in this article, we have all the solutions to fix this problem for good.

Why has Outlook encountered an error?

The Outlook has encountered an error that is preventing it from working properly can be triggered by many possible issues, but we will highlight the most important here:

  • Third-party add-ins – If you installed any add-ins lately, that might cause Outlook to encounter an error. Starting Outlook in Safe mode can clear out this issue.
  • Firewall and antivirus interference – The firewall can block the connection with the server, preventing you from logging into your account and producing this error in Outlook or other Microsoft 365 software.
  • Software bugs – Like any other software, Outlook is prone to file corruption and bugs, but repairing Office will get this problem under control.

Now that we know what the possible problems might be, let’s fix Outlook using the solutions below.

How can I fix Outlook if it encountered an error?

Before getting into more complex tweaking, let’s perform the following:

  • Check your internet connection to see if it’s functioning properly, and restart your router.
  • Disable Windows Defender or your third-party antivirus temporarily and see if the Outlook error persists. If so, you should think about switching to a better antivirus.
  • Restart your computer and try to run Outlook again. Sometimes, this simple action may work.
  • Make sure you have installed all pending Windows updates on your computer.

If none of these prerequisite methods worked, start performing the solutions below to fix the problem.

1. Use the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA)

  1. Go to Microsoft’s official download page for SaRA and click the Download button.
  2. After the download finishes, extract the ZIP file into a folder.
  3. Press the Win + E keys to start File Explorer, navigate to the folder, and double-click the SaraSetup.exe file.
  4. Now, click the Install button.
  5. After the app installs SaRA, hit the I agree button.
  6. Click on the Microsoft you have trouble with, in our case, Outlook, and click the Next button.
  7. Select the problem you’re having and click on Next. If you can’t identify it, select Other problems from the list.
  8. You will be asked to log into your Microsoft account. Follow the on-screen instructions to troubleshoot the Outlook issue.

Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant is a very powerful troubleshooting tool for Office applications.

Many of our readers managed to fix the Outlook has encountered an error that is preventing it from working properly issue, so you should try it.

2. Start Office in Safe mode

  1. Press the Windows key + R to start the Run console.
  2. Type outlook /safe and click OK or press Enter.
  3. Choose the profile you want to use from the drop-down menu and hit the OK button.
  4. If Outlook can start in Safe mode that means some add-in is causing this problem and you should disable them one by one until you find which one is the culprit.

3. Perform a Clean boot

  1. Press the Win + R key combination, type msconfig, and press Enter or click OK.
  2. Go to the Services tab, check the box with Hide all Microsoft services at the bottom-left side of the page, and click on Disable all.
  3. Now, click on Open Task Manager.
  4. Next, go to the Startup tab, right-click on the apps you don’t want to open during the startup one after the other and choose Disable.
  5. Close Task Manager, click OK in the System Configuration window, and restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

If Outlook works fine after the Clean boot, that means a third-party software is interfering with the app and causing this error.

Restart your PC normally and uninstall or disable the app you installed lately to find the one that is causing this issue.

4. Repair Office

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Select Apps from the left pane and choose Installed apps from the right.
  3. Find Office, click on the three horizontal dots from its right, and select Advanced options.
  4. Now, scroll down and click the Repair button.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to repair the Office apps, including Outlook.
  6. Alternatively, you can redo the first three steps and choose the Reset button instead but keep in mind that this action will wipe out any data in the app.

5. Reinstall Office

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Choose the Apps option from the left and pick Installed apps from the right.
  3. Now, look for Office, click on the More button (the three dots on its right), and select Uninstall.
  4. After the uninstallation, reinstall Office with the kit provided or download the latest copy from Microsoft Store.

As a last resort, you can uninstall Office along with Outlook and reinstall it freshly. This should clear out any possible issues with the app.

We hope our solutions helped you fix the Outlook encountered an error problem, and now you can use the app without any problems.

Should you need more information, we also have a guide on what to do if Outlook is not opening on Windows 11.

Also, if you receive the error Something unexpected went wrong with this URL, the highlighted guide will help you.

If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to let us know about them in the comments section below.

Bing Error E010014 When Trying to Join The Waitlist [Fixed]

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If you encountered the Bing error e010014 when trying to join the waitlist, this guide can help! We will talk about some of the workarounds available to fix the issue right after talking about the causes.

What is error code e010014?

The error code is not a specific error for New Bing Chat. Instead, it is a general error code that could have occurred for various reasons, including the Microsoft server and slow internet connection. This seems to be a bug causing the issue, but there is no update on when this error code will be fixed. However, some workarounds can fix the problem.

What causes the Bing error e010014 when trying to join the waitlist?

There could be several reasons for this error code to appear; some of the common ones are mentioned here: 

  • Unstable network connection –  If your internet connection is weak, you might not be able to establish a connection with the Microsoft server, hence the error. To fix this, you need to troubleshoot your internet connection or 
  • Microsoft server outage or is busy – Sometimes Microsoft server doesn’t respond when it is busy due to the heavy load caused by a vast number of access users; hence you can’t reach it and get this error. You need to wait and try again once the server is up.

How can I fix the Bing error e010014 when trying to join the waitlist?

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

  • Restart your computer.
  • Use a different network connection.
  • Restart your router.

1. Troubleshoot network connections

1.1 Use the Settings app

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Troubleshoot.
    troubleshoot e010014
  3. Now select Other troubleshooters.
    Troubleshooter
  4. Go to Internet connections and click Run.
    Internet connections Run
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

1.2  Reset Network

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
    DOS COmmand Prompt - e010014
  2. Copy and paste the following command one by one and press Enter after every command: netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns
  3. Once the command is executed, restart your computer.

2. Check the Microsoft Server status

  1. Go to the Microsoft Service Status page.
    Microsoft Server status e010014
  2. Check all the services and apps to ensure there is an outage.
  3. If there is no outage, the server might be busy due to excessive load. Then, it would be best if you waited before you tried again.

3. Use a different browser or try the incognito mode

  1. Open your preferred browser and locate three dots or three lines from the top right corner.
  2. Now select New Incognito window (Chrome), New Private window (Firefox), or New InPrivate window (Edge)to open the Private mode on your browser.
    In private e010014
  3. Now access the same website to join the waitlist.

4. Use VPN 

  1. Download NordVPN on your computer, as it is one of the safest options.
    NordVPN_ e010014
  2. Connect to a server location close to your physical location.
  3. Once the connection is established, try to join the waiting list.
  4. If you have VPN enabled, disable it, wait for 30 seconds, and enable it again.
    VPN disconnect

5. Re-register a Microsoft account with your domain name

  1. Visit the Microsoft admin website.
  2. From the left pane, select Settings, then click Domains.
    Settings Microsoft Admin Center
  3. On the Domain page, click the + icon or Add domain.
    Add domian
  4. Follow the onscreen instructions to own your domain. 
    Add a domain 1
  5. Now back to the Admin center, go to Users, then click Active Users.
    Users - Active Users
  6. Select the user and click Manage contact information and change the information accordingly.
    Manage contact information
  7. Now use the new account to apply to join New Bing.

So, this is how you can fix the Bing error e010014 when trying to join the waitlist. If nothing has worked for you so far, then you can either contact Microsoft support or wait for the bug to be fixed so that you can try to add yourself to the waitlist.

If you have any other questions or concerns about New Bing Chat, please let us know in the comments section below. We will be happy to help!

File Explorer Not Responding on Windows 11? How to Fix It

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

File Explorer is one of the most frequented apps of Windows, but sadly, it is not immune to bugs and issues. Several readers have reported that File Explorer is not responding on their Windows 11 PCs.

Sometimes, it fails to respond to the commands, and other times, the response is slow. If you are facing a similar issue, we have got you covered.

Why is File Explorer not responding on Windows 11?

Some of the most probable reasons behind the File Explorer not responding issue are as follows:

  • Corrupt or missing system files – Corrupt system files are a common reason why Windows File Manager is responsive to right-click.
  • Incompatible third-party apps – Recently installed third-party apps, if incompatible, can interfere with the working of the operating system and other apps.
  • Corrupt File Explorer cache – If the cached data is not expelled periodically, it can get corrupted and slows down the File Explorer app.
  • Outdated graphic drivers – Outdated system drivers can trigger various issues on your system and are likely to interrupt the File Explorer app as well.
  • Malware or virus infection – Malware and virus attacks lead to several system-level problems, including the File Explorer not responding issue on Windows 11.

In this guide, we have compiled a list of efficient workarounds to fix the File Explorer not responding issue on Windows 11.

What can I do if File Explorer is not responding on Windows 11?

Before implementing the complex troubleshooting solutions, make sure to perform the following actions:

If these simple fixes could not resolve the problem, implement the solutions below.

1. Restart File Explorer

1.1 Using Task Manager

  1. Right-click the Windows icon on the Taskbar and choose Task Manager from the Quick Links menu.
  2. Right-click the Windows Explorer process in the Apps section of the Processes tab and choose the End Task option.File Explorer not responding Windows 11
  3. Click the File option located on the top Menu bar and select Run New Task from the sub-menu.File Explorer not responding Windows 11
  4. Type Explorer or explorer.exe in the text field of the Create new task window and press OK.File Explorer not responding Windows 11

1.2 Using Command Prompt

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd in the Search bar on top, and click the Run as Administrator option from the result section.File Explorer not responding Windows 11
  2. Press Yes on the User Action Control window.
  3. Type or paste the following command and press Enter key to end the File Explorer process. taskkill /f /im explorer.exeFile Explorer not responding Windows 11
  4. Next, type the following command and execute it to restart File Explorer on your Windows 11 computer. start explorer.exeFile Explorer not responding Windows 11

Restarting File Explorer using any of the two ways discussed above will eliminate the underlying technical glitch that is causing File Explorer not responding issue on Windows 11.

2. Run SFC and DISM scans

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Windows key, type cmd in the Search bar, and select Run as Administrator from the result section.
  2. Type or paste the following command and press the Enter key to initiate a full system scan. sfc /scannowPress the Windows key, type cmd in the Search bar on top, and click the Run as Administrator option from the result section.File Explorer not responding Windows 11 Press Yes on the User Action Control window. Type or paste the following command and press Enter key to end the File Explorer process. taskkill /f /im explorer.exeFile Explorer not responding Windows 11 Next, type the following command and execute it to restart File Explorer on your Windows 11 computer. start explorer.exeFile Explorer not responding Windows 11
  3. After the SFC scan is completed, type or copy-paste the following command and press Enter. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthFile Explorer not responding Windows 11

The SFC scan, along with DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management), scans your PC to find the corrupt and missing system images and restore them with the original version, resolving the irresponsive File Explorer app. And this also helps when File Explorer is taking focus.

Although the SFC and DISM scans are a safe solution, some users prefer to use third-party software to automatically repair all corrupt or missing files by finding new parts as replacements.

3. Clear the File Explorer cache

  1. Use the Windows + E shortcut to launch File Explorer on Windows 11 PC.
  2. Click the Menu icon (three dots) on the right of the Menu bar and select Options from the drop-down menu.Open the Start menu by pressing the Windows key, type cmd in the Search bar, and select Run as Administrator from the result section. Type or paste the following command and press the Enter key to initiate a full system scan. sfc /scannowPress the Windows key, type cmd in the Search bar on top, and click the Run as Administrator option from the result section.File Explorer not responding Windows 11 Press Yes on the User Action Control window. Type or paste the following command and press Enter key to end the File Explorer process. taskkill /f /im explorer.exeFile Explorer not responding Windows 11 Next, type the following command and execute it to restart File Explorer on your Windows 11 computer. start explorer.exeFile Explorer not responding Windows 11 After the SFC scan is completed, type or copy-paste the following command and press Enter. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthFile Explorer not responding Windows 11
  3. In the Folder Options window, press the Clear button located next to Clear File Explorer history and then OK.File Explorer not responding Windows 11

Cache files pile up in File Explorer and if not cleared for a long time, slow down the app and can also be why File Explorer is not responding on Windows 11.

6. Uninstall the display driver

  1. Use the Windows + R shortcut to launch the Run dialog box, type the following command in the text field and press the Enter key. devmgmt.mscFile Explorer not responding Windows 11
  2. Expand the Display adapters category.
  3. Right-click the display driver and choose Uninstall device option.File Explorer not responding
  4. Click Uninstall on the confirmation pop-up.File Explorer not responding Windows 11

After the display driver is uninstalled from your computer, restart your PC to install the standard display driver available for your device. If the display drivers get corrupt, they can cause the File Explorer to malfunction and stop responding to commands.

7. Run the System Maintenance tool

  1. Press the Start button, type control panel in the Search bar, and select the relevant search result.File Explorer not responding Windows 11
  2. Set View by to Small icons and select Security and Maintenance category.File Explorer not responding Windows 11
  3. Expand the Maintenance section and click on Start Maintenance.File Explorer not responding Windows 11

The System Maintenance tool built into Windows 11 diagnoses underlying issues and optimizes the performance of the OS and Windows apps, such as Windows Explorer.

8. Clean boot your PC

  1. Launch the Run command window using the Windows + R shortcut. Type the following command and press Enter to execute it. msconfig File Explorer not respondiing
  2. Uncheck the box for the Load startup items and check the Load system services option in the System Configuration window.File Explorer not responding
  3. Switch to the Services tab, enable the Hide all Microsoft services option located on the bottom left, and press the Disable button.File Explorer not responding
  4. Click the OK button and restart your computer; it will boot in a clean boot state.

Now try opening File Explorer on your Windows PC. If you are successful, it means some third-party apps are interfering with the File Explorer functionality. You can refer to this guide to uninstall apps from Windows.

That’s pretty much it! You can try the solutions listed here if File Explorer is not responding on Windows 11, affecting your workflow. In case File Explorer crashes randomly on Windows, refer to the proven solutions provided in this guide.

If you have any questions or want to give suggestions, don’t hesitate to head to the comments section below.

Unknown Error Trying to Lock File: 3 Ways to Open the Files

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Some of our readers report encountering an Unknown error trying to lock a file when opening a file in Excel from SharePoint. Therefore, we’ll examine ways to troubleshoot this problem in this guide.

Alternatively, you can read our guide about how to fix SharePoint documents that won’t open in the application.

What causes an unknown error trying to lock file?

The Unknown error trying to lock a file can occur for different reasons. Hence, the reason below is the specific factors causing this error.

  • File in use – The system stores raw or processed data in a hierarchical structure of directories. Therefore, you can encounter the error unable to lock if the file is already in use.
  • Corrupt file – The system file can become corrupt or damaged due to outcomes of different factors such as malware, bugs, power outage, or human error. It can cause the SharePoint file to malfunction when opened, popping up error messages such as unknown error trying to lock file.
  • Permission issue – Permissions ensure that only authorized users can access and modify system resources. Therefore, you can encounter difficulty opening files if you don’t have permission to access the file on a system.
  • Network issues – Network congestion can cause an error if you are accessing a file over the internet.

The causes above vary depending on the circumstances. Nonetheless, we will discuss the steps to resolve the error and open the files.

How can I fix an unknown error trying to lock the file?

Try the following preliminary checks to fix the file-locking error:

You should proceed with the advanced steps below if the error persists.

1. Create a network location via Registry Editor

  1. Press the Windows button, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Click the Yes button on the UAC, copy and paste this address into the directory bar, and press Enter: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WebClient\Parameters
  3. Right-click on the right-side menu and select new. Rename the new value to AuthForwardServerList and press Enter.
  4. Right-click the AuthForwardServerList value and click on modify.
  5. Input the URL of your website in the Value data box and click the OK button.
  6. Close the Windows Registry Editor and restart your Webclient Service.

The Registry Editor creates a Network Location for troubleshooting the SharePoint network. Read about how to fix a corrupt registry on Windows.

2. Clear browser cache and cookies

  1. Launch the browser app on your device. Click on the three dots on the top right side, select More tools, and click on Clear browsing data.
  2. Select All Time from the Time range at the top, check the boxes next to Cookies and other site data, and the Cached images and files option. Then click on Clear now.

Clearing the browser cache and cookies will remove all pre-store data and refresh the website. Check our guide about how to clear the computer cache in Windows 11.

3. Add SharePoint as an exception in Firewall settings

  1. Left-click the Start button, type firewall, and open Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Go to Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Scroll down and select SharePoint from the list of apps.
  4. Check the boxes for both Private and Public. Click OK to save the changes and restart your PC.

Allowing SharePoint as an exception in Windows Firewall prevents the firewall from checking or blocking its processes.

In addition, read our guide on how to fix these files that cannot be opened error messages. Also, do not hesitate to check how to open SharePoint in File Explorer.

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

How to Undervolt a GPU & Why You Should Do It

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The PC generates heat and noise directly proportional to the voltage supplied. So, if your system is too hot or making loud noises from the fans, you need to adjust your GPU. Hence, this article will discuss ways to undervolt a GPU on the PC.

Also, we recommend you check through our guide on how to safely underclock your GPU to lower its performance.

Why should I undervolt a GPU?

Every GPU operation on the system consumes some amount of power, and in turn, they dissipate as heat that can significantly affect the system. This is the reason we recommend you undervolt the GPU.

However, undervolting a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) means lowering or reducing the operating voltage your graphics card or video card has access. Although it has some benefits to it:

  • GPU undervolting minimizes power consumption and load temperature by reducing voltage.
  • When you undervolt your Graphics processor, it runs without generating excessive heat and lessens the pressure on the GPU power phases. Also, it lowers the voltage output to the GPU at the constant maximum clock speed.
  • Further, undervolting maintains GPU stability and longevity in lower-end motherboards by not overworking the GPU. Also, it reduces the fan noise on your PC.

The above are a few of the advantages of undervolting. Hence, we will explore the various ways to do it on your GPU below.

How can I undervolt a GPU?

Note icon NOTE
Although we don’t recommend third-party software, the ones mentioned below are tested by our experts. Hence, you can safely download and use them for the undervolting purpose.

1. Use MSI Afterburner and Unigine’s Heaven Benchmark

  1. Launch your browser, download the latest MSI Afterburner and Unigine’s Heaven Benchmark, then install them on your PC.
  2. Open the MSI Afterburner software, and you should see a window showing your GPU Speed, Voltage, and Temperature.
  3. Launch Heaven Benchmark, click the Run button on the bottom-left pane, then wait while it loads.
  4. Click the Settings button and uncheck the box for Full-Screen to see the GPU clock speed and temperature during the stress test.
  5. Click on Benchmark in the top-right corner to start testing.
  6. Press Alt + Tab keys to switch to MSI Afterburner while running Benchmark to open them side by side.
  7. In MSI Afterburner, note the maximum GPU clock speed reached and note your GPU Temp.
  8. Switch back to Heaven Benchmark to see if the benchmarking has ended. If it is, note the performance score.
  9. Go to MSI Afterburner and press Ctrl + F keys to open the Fan Curve graph.
  10. With the plot of voltage on the horizontal axis and Clock Speed on the vertical axis, find the point that corresponds to the maximum GPU clock speed you noted earlier on the vertical axis at the left.
  11. After finding the clock speed, look below on the horizon axis to see the voltage corresponding to it.
  12. Figure out the difference in frequencies represented by the red and green lines.
  13. Go to the main window on MSI Afterburner and find Core Clock, input the calculated value, and press Enter. The graph on the fan curve page should drop to the desired frequency range.
  14. Try reducing 50 mV voltage to start undervolting.
  15. Find the square dot corresponding to the voltage you want to get, then drag the square box above to reach the maximum clock speed of your GPU.
  16. Press Shift, select all the areas to the right of the dot, and press Enter to make them straight.
  17. Click on the Apply button on the main screen.
  18. Go to Heaven Benchmark, run the Benchmarking, then note the readings.
  19. Repeat steps 14-17 by lowering the voltage by 50 mV until you reach a low-performance score.
  20. Apply and Save the changes.

You can undervolt your GPU depending on how low you want it to be. So, considering the frequencies you get from the earlier scan, reduce the voltage until you get the desired result.

2. Via AMD Radeon Software: Adrenalin Edition

  1. Download the AMD Radeon Software: Adrenalin Edition and Unigine’s Heaven Benchmark on your PC.
  2. Launch the Radeon software, click the Performance tab at the top, and go to Tuning.
  3. Go to GPU Tuning, then the Clock Speed and Voltage.
  4. Launch Heaven Benchmark, click the Run button on the bottom-left pane, then wait while it loads.
  5. Click the Settings button and uncheck the box for Full-Screen to see the GPU clock speed during the stress test.
  6. Click on Benchmark in the top-right corner to start testing.
  7. Press Alt + Tab keys to switch to AMD’s software while running Benchmark to open them side by side.
  8. Note the GPU clock speed and note Temperature.
  9. Switch back to Heaven Benchmark to see if the Benchmarking has ended. If it is, note the performance score.
  10. Navigate to the GPU section on the AMD software window and select Custom on the Manual Tuning tab.
  11. Toggle the switch for the GPU Tuning option and Advanced Control to enable them.
  12. Type the maximum GPU clock speed, tune the voltage slider to reduce the voltage by 50 mV, then click on Apply Changes.
  13. Run the Heaven Benchmark and check the changes.
  14. Repeat the process until you reach the optimum value.
  15. Alternatively, click the Undervolt option on the Automatic section to let AMD do it automatically.

The above steps will help reduce the voltage and power consumption of the GPU.

In conclusion, you can check our guide on what to do if you’re experiencing a PC crash after overclocking the CPU. Also, we have a comprehensive article about how to undervolt your CPU in easy steps.

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