Update Node Version on Windows 64-bit With These Steps

Node is a very popular front-end development software, and to keep it running smoothly, you need to know how to update Node properly on Windows.

To ensure everything works properly, you need to update Node.js regularly for stable performance. Today’s guide will show you how to update Node JS on Windows, so be sure to keep on reading.

Can you update Node from command line?

Yes, it’s possible to update Node on Windows from the command line. However, this method requires that you download and install additional software from GitHub to work.

In addition, before using this method, you need to remove all versions of Node and then install them from the command line. This is done in order to avoid any potential issues on your PC.

How do I update Node to the latest version?

1. Update Node.js with the installer

  1. Open the Node.js download section.
  2. Select Windows Installer to download the 64-bit installer.
  3. You can manually download the 32-bit installer as well.
  4. Once the download is complete, double-click to run the installer.
  5. On the Node.js setup wizard, click Next.
    update Node.js on Windows
  6. Accept the license agreement by checking the box and clicking Next.
  7. Choose the destination folder to install Node.js.
  8. You can customize the feature installation process on the Custom Setup window.
  9. Click Install to complete the installation.
  10. Click Finish.

You can check the Node.js version with the command node -v in the command prompt.

If you want to update Node version on Windows, this is the most straightforward way to do it. Although simple, sometimes issues with it can emerge.

If that problem occurs, follow the second method to update Node on Windows using NVM.

2. Update the Node Version on Windows with NVM

Note icon NOTE
If you use this method, be sure to remove all previous Node installations to avoid any potential issues.
  1. 1. Visit windows-nvm download page and download nvm-setup.exe.

  2. 2. Run the setup file and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.

  3. 3. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard. Select PowerShell (Admin) from the list.

  4. 4. Run the following command nvm install node

  5. 5. Type nvm list available

  6. 6. Type nvm use <version>

  7. After running these steps, you should be able to easily update Node to specific version and switch between versions with ease.

Node.js is an open-source, cross-platform, JavaScript runtime environment that allows you to run JavaScript code outside of a web browser. Being a popular JavaScript runtime environment, Node.js gets new updates every few weeks.

While installing these updates may not be critical soon after the release, at times, some features can only be used after updating to newer releases.

By following the steps in the article, you can upgrade Node version on Windows with ease. If you’re a fan of node, maybe consider trying Yarn as well. We have a great guide on how to install Yarn, so be sure to check it out. You can also install NVM on Windows to switch between Node versions.

And rest assured that our solving NPM executable issues: Step-by-step guide has even more useful tips and tricks when facing this problem.

Do let us know what method you use to update Node on your PC in the comments below.

Fix: This App Package Is Not Supported for Installation

This app package is not supported for installation by app installer because it uses certain restricted capabilities error will prevent you from installing apps from the Microsoft Store, but you can fix it with these steps.

Why am I getting the App package not supported error?

This can happen if you’re installing apps from third-party sources, or if the Store isn’t supporting the installer. Restricted installed capabilities can also cause this issue, as well as not using the Developer Mode.

How can I fix this app package is not supported for installation by app installer?

1. Enable Developer Mode

  1. Use the Windows + I shortcut to launch the Settings app.
  2. Go to Privacy & Security tab from the left sidebar and click the For developers option.This App Package is Not Supported for Installation
  3. Toggle On the switch for Developer Mode.This App Package is Not Supported for Installation

2. Install app packages using Windows PowerShell

  1. Press Windows + S to open Windows Search, type powershell in the search bar, and click Run as Administrator.This App Package is Not Supported for Installation
  2. Press the Yes button on the User Action Control window.
  3. Type or copy-paste the following command into the PowerShell window (Replace the X:\Path\to\File.Appx string with the actual path of the app package on your system): Add-AppxPackage -Path X:\Path\to\File.Appx App Package is Not Supported for Installation
  4. Press the Enter key to initiate the package installation.

3. Use the App Installer

Note icon NOTE
Before you begin installing Microsoft’s official App Installer on your Windows PC, it is recommended to create a restore point on your Windows PC.
  1. Launch Microsoft Store from the pinned apps in the Start menu and search for App Installer.This App Package is Not Supported for Installation
  2. Press the Install to Download button.
  3. Launch the File Explorer using Windows + E shortcut, navigate to the location of the .appx or .msixbundle package, and double-click one of them to launch the App Installer.This App Package is Not Supported for Installation
  4. Finally, press the Install button located on the button right of the App Installer dialog box.This App Package is Not Supported for Installation

Wait until the App Installer discovers and downloads the essential dependency packages and the main app package. After the installation is successful, the app will automatically launch on your PC.

These workarounds will help you get past the This app package is not supported for installation by app installer because it uses certain restricted capabilities error.

As you can see, this error appears when you try to install MSIXBundles on Windows, and while doing that, you can also get App you are trying to install is not Microsoft verified error.

While you are here, you may want to know how to fix the This Installation Package Could not be Opened error using some simple methods.

If you have any other questions or solutions for this issue, feel free to use the comments section below.

There Is No Media in The Device: How to Fix This Error

Some of our readers have recently reported that they face the lack of media in the device error when they’re trying to format their USB device drivers.

While this can be quite frustrating, we have decided to provide some potential solutions to help fix the removable disk with no media error.

Why do I get there is no media in the device error?

Before proceeding to explore the potential solutions for this error, you may want to take note of the reasons why you are experiencing this issue:

  • Damaged or faulty USB drivers – Like other storage devices, flash drives can get damaged. You can try updating or reinstalling the USB device driver to fix the error.
  • The Master Boot Record (MBR) is damaged or corrupted – The Master Boot Record (MBR), or Partition Boot Record (PBR), gets damaged whenever you abruptly eject your USB device.
  • Faulty system files – In some cases, the error can also be triggered by corrupted system files. Use the Windows built-in disk error-checking tool or use a third-party system repair tool.
  • Multiple USB devices connected – It can also be caused by some temporary glitches, like too many USB drivers connected to your PC, USB port, etc.

What can I do if I get there is no media in the device error?

1. Run the CHKDSK command

  1. Plug your USB drive into your computer.
  2. Press the Windows key + S, type the command prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
  3. Next, type the following command and press Enter to run it: chkdsk C: /f /r /x
  4. Press Y to proceed with the check after restarting.

The Check Disk Utility (CHKDSK) is a command-line tool that can fix disk errors.

2. Repair the MBR in Windows

  1. Boot from the recovery USB or the original installation DVD.
  2. Navigate to the Install window and click on Repair your computer.
  3. From the Choose an option window, choose Troubleshoot.
  4. Then, select Advanced Options and select Command Prompt.
  5. Type the following command lines and press Enter after each command: bootrec /fixmbr  bootrec /fixboot   bootrec /scanos   bootrec /rebuildbcd
  6. Now, eject the USB/DVD from your PC and restart your PC.

You can also use any of the third-party MBR repair tools to rebuild the MBR on your USB.

3. Update or reinstall the USB device driver

  1. Press the Windows + X keys to open the Quick links menu and select Device Manager.
  2. Click on the Disk drives section to expand it, then right-click on your USB device and select the Update driver option.
  3. In the pop-up windows, select Search automatically for drivers.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  5. Once done, try reconnecting your USB and see if the error is fixed.
  6. If not, proceed again with the first 2 steps and select the Uninstall device option instead.
  7. Next, restart your PC, and the driver will be reinstalled automatically.

If updating the driver does not fix the issue, you can try to uninstall the USB driver and then reinstall it.

Sometimes, updating or completely reinstalling your drivers may take time and effort because you want to avoid possible errors and damage.

Thus, dedicated software like Fortect Driver Updater can be helpful because it can locate the correct and latest driver options for your outdated, missing, or malfunctioning device drivers.

You can also:

  • Restart your PC and check if the problem persists.
  • Try to inspect your USB drive for any physical damage.
  • Try to check your USB with another computer, connect it to another USB port, and see if it works for you.
  • Unplug all other USB drivers connected to your computer.

The solutions provided in this article should help fix the there is no media in the device error, as it did for others.

If the USB port is the issue, there is always the option to use a reliable USB hub and connect as many devices as possible. And easily solving Please Insert The External Storage Media and Press OK errors is also possible in no time thanks to our dedicated guide.

If you have any other suggestions or solutions that we should add here, please use the comments section below.

Fix: Windows Can’t Initialize Device Driver for This Hardware

The error code 37 means that Windows has detected a problem with the device driver and cannot start the hardware device. This means that the software device driver is not properly installed on your system or that the hardware you are trying to use is incompatible with Windows.

You already know drivers are essential for the smooth operation of devices, so this error needs to be addressed immediately if you’re to use the hardware device. In this article, we show you various ways to bypass this error.

What causes the Windows error code 37?

When you get the Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (code 37) message, it can be caused by several issues, including:

  • Compatibility issues – When you plug a hardware device into your PC, it is expected to install its drivers automatically. However, this isn’t always the case, as some devices don’t have the universal drivers that work on every PC.
  • A malfunctioning device driver – A damaged device driver can be caused by incomplete uninstallation of the device from previous versions of Microsoft Windows.
  • Virus on your computer – It is possible that your PC has a virus that may have modified or corrupted the driver file.
  • An incorrect/outdated driver was installed – If you have installed an older version of the device driver for your hardware, your operating system may not support the hardware model.

Other noteworthy errors with the same code include:

  • Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (code 37) ethernet – Here, you’ll be unable to use Wi-Fi. 
  • Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (code 37) network adapter – This could be a problem with your network drivers.
  • Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (code 37) object name already exists – This means that a driver is already installed but possibly not working.
  • Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (code 37) Xbox One – This typically occurs when your Xbox controller won’t connect to your PC.

How do you fix Windows Cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware code 37?

A few workarounds to try before the main solutions include:

  • Make sure that another program, such as another antivirus software or other security software, is not using the device.
  • Switch to another USB port, as the one you’re currently using may not be working.
  • Unplug all USB devices and other peripherals, then plug in the USB drive in question that’s causing the issue.
  • Try with another device. If you’re using a USB drive, plug in another one if available and check whether the error code appears. This will help you determine whether it is faulty or cannot be recognized.
  • Check for Windows updates.

1. Run the SFC scan

  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 command, then hit Enter: sfc /scannowsfc scan command in command prompt.

2. Run a virus scan

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

3. Scan for hardware changes

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to your hardware device section (in this case Universal Serial Bus), right-click on your device, then select Scan for hardware changes.
  3. Windows will then scan for any missing components and reinstall them to make them responsive again.

4. Update device drivers 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to your hardware device section (in this case Universal Serial Bus), right-click on your device then select Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers.

Another straightforward route that will yield faster and more accurate results includes introducing a third-party tool. Updating drivers manually can be cumbersome and doesn’t always yield the intended results.

Outbyte Driver Updater, on the other hand, is a trusted driver updater utility that detects outdated drivers, scans from its comprehensive database, then downloads and installs the correct driver for you.

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5. Reinstall the device driver 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to your hardware device section (in this case, Universal Serial Bus), right-click on your device then select Uninstall device.
  3. Click on Uninstall in the next pop-up box.
  4. Restart your device, and your drivers will automatically be installed.

6. Rollback to the previous driver version

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to your hardware device section (in this case Universal Serial Bus), right-click on your device then select Properties.
  3. Click on the Driver tab, and select Roll Back Driver.
  4. Select a reason for rolling back in the next prompt, then click Yes.
  5. Restart your PC, and the previously installed drivers for your device will be loaded.

In another related issue, you may also find that you can’t initialize the disk, or can’t initialize graphics device but our detailed articles have various ways you can force your drive to work again.

Users also came across the code 39 error where Windows was unable to load the device driver, but we answer all queries in our guide.

Be sure to leave any additional thoughts on this topic down below.

How to Disable Hyper-V in Windows 11: Save CPU, Run Virtualization Software & More

While Windows 11 has it enabled by default, many want to turn off Hyper-V to improve performance, resolve compatibility issues with other virtualization software, and free up system resources.

If that’s you, you can find below 3 easy ways to disable Hyper-V on your Windows 11 PC.

How can I disable Hyper-V in Windows 11?

1. Disable Hyper-V with Command Line

    At the time, the available methods to disable Hyper-V are through command line-tools. Of course, the tool that users prefer to use is Command Prompt. So, if wanted to find out how to disable Hyper-V in Windows 11 Command Prompt, check the steps below.

  1. 1. Press the Windows + S keys at the same time on your keyboard to open the Search bar.

  2. 2. Type cmd in the Search bar.

  3. 3. Right-click on the most relevant result and select Run an administrator from the list of options available.

    cmd-run-as-admin how to access signal on pc
  4. 4. The Command Prompt window will open.

  5. 5. Now type or paste in the following command:DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:Microsoft-Hyper-V-All

    dism-disable-hyper-v disable hyper v windows 11
  6. 6. Press Enter to run the command.

  7. 7. Hyper-V is now disabled on your PC.

2. Use PowerShell

  1. Right-click on the Start icon then click on the Windows Terminal (Admin) option to open the PowerShell interface.windows-terminal windows 11 security center not opening
  2. Type or paste in the following command, then press Enter and let it run:DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:Microsoft-Hyper-V-Allpower-shell-hyperv disable hyper v windows 11

3. Disable with DISM

  1. Right-click on the Start icon then click on the Windows Terminal (Admin) option.windows-terminal windows 11 security center not opening
  2. Now type or paste in the below command and press Enter to run it: DISM /Online /Disable-Feature:Microsoft-Hyper-V dism-hyperv disable hyper v windows 11

To finish the uninstallation procedure and entirely uninstall Hyper-V, a machine’s UEFI/BIOS settings must be configured to disable Secure Boot.

The technique for disabling Secure Boot will differ based on your hardware vendor and the manufacturer of your motherboard.

Does Windows 11 have a virtual machine?

Virtual machines enable developers to work with Windows without installing the operating system on their workstations.windows-11-enterprise disable hyper v windows 11

In addition to working from devices running other operating systems, such as Linux or macOS, developers will be able to work from a Windows 11 Enterprise virtual OS. Users have a variety of alternatives when it comes to developing a virtual machine.

The virtual machine enables developers to start constructing Windows apps quickly. They can use the pre- installed feature with the newest versions of Windows, the developer tools, SDKs, and more.

Benefits of Hyper V

One of the reasons you want to enable Hyper-V in Windows 11 is the ability to run virtual machines in their own isolated space.

This allows us to run not only one but multiple virtual machines simultaneously, which is very convenient.

How much RAM does Hyper-V need?

Typically, memory is the most valuable resource available on a virtualization host. It is not possible to share it between virtual computers. The computing expenses associated with compressing or de-duplicate it are prohibitively high, making neither option practical.

ram-see disable hyper v windows 11

Memory assignment and activity tracking in Hyper-V are not without their own set of drawbacks. Hyper-V alone requires approximately 300 MB of memory to run its operations.

For each virtual machine, any quantity of memory up to and including the first megabyte necessitates using 32 megabytes of overhead. Every gigabyte added after the first incurs an additional 8 megabytes overhead.

Because of this, you should expect your physical host to be unable to utilize the absolute bare minimum amount of RAM available for VMs, which is 1GB.

Furthermore, it is frequently noticed in practice that other activities in the management operating system require even more memory to be set aside than is initially required. A typical Hyper-V host will require approximately 2 GB of RAM solely to run Hyper-V and the management operating system.

Wrapping up

If you want to learn how to optimize your OS, check out our guide on how to make Windows 11 faster and more responsive.

And if you encounter issues while installing the feature, we have already prepared a post on what to do if you can’t install Hyper-V on your computer. The solutions will apply to Windows 11 as well!

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

Fix: Application was Unable to Start Correctly (0xc0000142)

The application was unable to start correctly in Windows 10 is an error message usually accompanied by the error code 0xc0000142. This means that there is a problem with the Office application. You’ll therefore be unable to launch any of the programs in the Microsoft Office suite.

One possible cause is that you installed an older version of Office or that it was updated to a newer version but not completely installed. Whatever the reason, we unpack possible solutions in this article to help you resolve this issue.

What is error code 0xc00001420?

0xc00001420 is an error code that occurs when you try to run an application. The error code indicates that the application tried to run and failed, or it could not start correctly. Some of the common errors include:

  • The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142) Word – This happens mostly when you try to launch Microsoft Word. It can also happen to other Office programs.
  • The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142) Elden ring – This occurs when you try to play Elden Ring. It could be to a firewall blocking the game.
  • The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142) GTA 5 – This happens when you try to launch GTA 5. It could be due to a lack of administrator permissions.

The most common causes for this error include:

  • Missing DLL files – A lot of times when you try to install software or update drivers, there will be issues with compatibility with other components on your PC or application, such as missing DLL files. 
  • Corrupted Windows Registry – The Windows Registry is where important information about your PC is stored, including all installed programs, settings, and preferences. If anything goes wrong with the registry, it can cause this error message.
  • Problematic updates – A section of users also encountered the application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142) error after Windows updates, so it is possible that a particular update had issues.
  • Insufficient permissions – Some programs require administrative privileges to be launched, so if you’re using a local account, you may run into this error.
  • Outdated OS – If you’re using an old version of Windows, it may not be compatible with newer programs and hence fail to launch.

How do I fix the application was unable to start correctly?

We recommend that you perform the following checks first before any complex solutions:

  • Close any background apps and processes that may be hogging up your memory and preventing the launch of programs.
  • Ensure you’re running an updated version of the Microsoft Office suite.
  • Switch to an administrator account if you aren’t using one already. Find out how to make yourself an administrator in Windows 10.
  • Clean your registry to clear any junk and improve overall system performance.
  • Restart your PC to get rid of any temporary bugs and glitches.

1. Restart the Office Software Protection Platform service

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc in the dialog box and hit Enter.run services.msc command
  3. Navigate to Office Software Protection Platform service (in some Windows versions, it may be Microsoft protection Software/Software Protection), right-click on it and select Properties.
  4. Go to Startup type and in the drop-down menu, select Automatic then click on Start.
  5. Now click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

2. Check for Windows updates 

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon and select Settings.
  2. Select Update & Security then click on Windows Update.Windows update - windows file explorer not showing top bar
  3. If there are any available updates, download and install them.

3. Repair Office

  1. Right-click the Start Menu icon and click on Settings.
  2. Type Control Panel in the search bar and click Open.
  3. Go to Programs and select Uninstall a Program.
  4. Now, click Microsoft Office and select Change.
  5. Finally, click Online Repair, then select Repair.

4. Reinstall Office

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon and select Settings.
  2. Search for Control Panel and click to Open.
  3. Select Uninstall a program under Programs.
  4. Locate Microsoft Office, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.
  5. Download Office and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

Before you reinstall Office, ensure you get rid of any software leftovers that may have been causing the application was unable to start correctly (0xc00001420) issue in Windows 10. This will ensure you’re getting a clean install of the program.

We also have a similar article for when an app won’t start correctly, so don’t hesitate to check out our expert article. Also, check out our detailed guide on what to do if Windows 10 apps are not opening.

We also have a guide on The application was unable to start correctly 0xc00005 error, so don’t miss it.

Your feedback is important to us, so comment below for any additional thoughts on this topic.

How to Clear Run History on Windows 10 [5 Steps]

To successfully use the Windows Run console, you need to type in specific commands. When you accumulate a lot of commands, you’ll need to clear the Run history. In this article, we’ll provide the steps you need to help clear your run history on Windows 10.

How to locate the Run history on Windows 10?

Before deleting the run history on your Windows PC, you’d need to locate where it is stored before you can delete it. The Windows run history is stored in the following registry location: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current version\Explorer\RunMRU

To delete the Run history, you must first navigate to that folder in the Windows Registry Editor.

How can I clear Run history on Windows 10?

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type in regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. In the User Account Control Window, click Yes to enable Admin permission to open the Registry.
  3. In the Registry Editor window, navigate to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current version\Explorer\RunMRU
  4. On the right pane, highlight every item in the MRU folder except the Default option, right-click on the highlighted options, and select Delete.
  5. Click Yes to confirm the Delete.

Sometimes, you might experience the Unable to clear all Registry items error. However, this error is usually null because your Windows Run history remains unclear.

The run history is a neat little Windows feature. However, you might feel the need to clear things up occasionally. 

You might also be interested in our guide on how to add a Run command in the Start menu.

With the steps above, you should be able to clear your system’s Run history.

What is Microsoft Teams Premium, and why you need to get a subscription

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of organizations transitioned to hybrid work. While this was a great way to ensure that operations were running seamlessly, communication posed a great challenge, especially with the majority of people working asynchronously across different time zones.

In turn, this necessitated the need to incorporate a communication tool that would mitigate this gap. A lot of organizations settled for Microsoft Teams, Skype, Slack, or Zoom as their primary communication tool. According to Microsoft’s FY23 Q2 report, Microsoft Teams has hit more than 280 million monthly active users.

It’s no secret Microsoft has been busy at work pushing updates as well as features to the teleconferencing tool to enhance its user experience and appeal. What’s more, it even launched a new entry dubbed Microsoft Teams Premium to further enhance the experience.

In this guide, we’ll focus on deciphering what Microsoft Teams Premium is and all the features it unpacks. Here’s everything you need to know:

What is Microsoft Teams Premium?

While you might already be conversant with Microsoft Teams free and Microsoft Teams paid, Microsoft has built further upon these experiences and debuted Microsoft Teams Premium.

Teams Premium is a new tier built on Microsoft Teams that is designed to enhance the tool’s meeting experience more personalized, intelligent, and secure. The offering is powered by GPT-3.5, OpenAI’s language model.

With this new entry, users will now have access to a unified experience that is cost-effective. Previously, Teams users had to incur extra costs to incorporate add-ons to their experience, but with the new offering, they’ll now be able to access these features and more under a singular experience at a significantly fair price point.

Features and pricing

What will you get when you get the Teams Premium add-on? Last year in December, Microsoft launched the offering on a 30-day trial, but it has since shipped to general availability with a host of new capabilities as well as features.

At the moment, you can get the add-on at an introductory fee of $7 per month per user till June 30, after that, the offering’s pricing will revert back to the standard $10 per month per user.

Note: You must have an existing Microsoft 365 or Office 365 license to access Teams Premium.

What exactly does the $10 subscription get you?

AI-powered meetings

Teams Premium’s meeting experience is deeply integrated with AI. This is Microsoft’s bid to ensure that users get to do more with less.

A nifty feature that ships with the add-on is the intelligent recap. With the feature in place, the user’s productivity is enhanced significantly as they can now focus on more important things. The feature generates meeting notes, recommended tasks, and personalized highlights automatically.

On the Microsoft Teams recap page, you see the “Weekly Teams Review” meeting recap, including the meeting recording with different chapters, the speakers with individual speaker timeline markers, and on the right-hand side “AI Notes” which shows suggested notes and suggested tasks.

It helps you cut down on unnecessary administrative work like taking notes or figuring out important takeaways that shift your focus from what truly matters. In turn, you are able to work smarter rather than harder.

What’s more, you can even use the automatically generated meeting notes powered by GPT-3.5 as well as highlights to catch up with important details shared during the meeting in case you were engaged elsewhere at the time.

Additionally, Teams Premium makes it easier for you to quickly review meeting recordings. The offering features a neat tool, AI-generated chapters which splits the recording into sections based on the meeting transcript.

This way it is easy to identify the section you are interested in and navigate there swiftly. The capability is also available for PowerPoint Live meeting recordings.

Showing a video recording after the meeting, and a selection of the “About Us” chapter on the right-hand side from the different “Chapters” available.

Microsoft has also gone the extra mile and included a cool tool that makes the meeting review process easier. If you use meeting recordings for future reference often, you can now find specific segments of the meeting with personalized timeline markers.

In a meeting recording you can see two small people markers, with the first having the meeting recording starting at that time, and with the second showing “You left the meeting.”

It should be noted that these markers will only be visible to you, that way it’s easier to identify when you joined or left a meeting in the meeting recording.

This allows you to catch up with everything that you might have missed. Microsoft has also highlighted its future plans to expand this capability further to show when your name was mentioned and also when the screen was shared.

Moreover, Teams Premium further enhances communication with live translations for captions, especially for organizations that interact with different people from different parts of the globe that might not necessarily speak the same language.

The offering features AI-powered real-time translations from 40 spoken languages, which means that attendees in the meeting will now be able to take part in the meeting and understand the information being passed.

You’ll no longer need to incur any extra costs for additional real-time meeting translation services thus saving you money while simultaneously enhancing the meeting’s productivity.

Important: The live translations for captions feature will be available for all meeting attendees provided the organizer has a Teams Premium subscription.

Curated meeting experience

The ability to curate and customize your meeting experience in Teams is one of the most requested features by organizations. Luckily, it ships with the Teams Premium add-on designed to create an engaging experience.

Teams Premium features a host of branded meeting tools that will push your organization to the next level and leave a lasting impression. These tools will help feature the logo and company colors when holding meeting virtually for memorability and further engagement.

In the pre-Teams meeting join screen, there is a custom VA logo, and a custom green brand image and green branded buttons.

What’s more, users can also enable brand-approved organization backgrounds and organization together mode scenes. This way it becomes very apparent to everyone that’s part of the meeting what your company stands for and the values you uphold.

Furthermore, with the new offering IT admins now have the capability of creating customized meeting templates such as a client call or brainstorming meeting to automatically include preferred settings.

This saves you a lot of time that you would have otherwise spent trying to curate the meeting experience to suit your needs and expectations.

With Teams Premium, you can assign Teams policies easily using custom user policy packages. Previously, users could only assign these meetings, messaging, and app policies individually which proved to be quite a tedious task.

Custom user policy packages let admins create a customized bundle of policies for users with similar job descriptions in the organization thus saving time and promoting consistency.

Secure meeting experience

A lot of meetings across organizations are now taking place virtually, while this is a time saver and convenient way of meeting, there are quite a number of setbacks that render this option unfavorable, especially in instances where sensitive information is being shared.

However, Teams Premium ships with an extra layer of protection to mitigate these issues. First up is the advanced meeting protection tool that lets users upgrade their safeguards for important meetings without disrupting the meeting experience.

In a Teams meeting, someone is presenting a blue PowerPoint slide that has the attendee's email address watermarked over the slide and the attendees' video feeds. There is a pop-up that says the meeting is “Highly Confidential/Internal Only” and that the meeting is verified by an end-to-end encryption code.

What’s more, the new tier also adds new meeting options like watermarking and the capability to limit who can record the meeting proceedings. The former is designed to prevent sensitive information from leaking, while the latter helps you establish privacy during the meeting and ensures that the details shared remain exclusive to the parties involved.

Additionally, the offering unpacks an advanced encryption option that is available for IT-enabled users dubbed end-to-end encryption (E2EE). The option lets you disable core meeting features to further establish a secure meeting experience.

Virtual Appointments

If you run a business that requires you to interact with clients a lot and set up appointments then you might want to consider getting the Teams Premium add-on to further enhance communication.

First up it ships with Virtual Appointments in Teams. This helps you save time and money that you would’ve spent sourcing for an add-on that will let you achieve this.

According to Microsoft:

You can delight customers with a seamless join experience that allows external attendees to join virtual, branded lobby rooms through text messages or email on any device browser—without them having to download an app.

What’s more, admins can manage and set up both scheduled and on-demand virtual appointments in one convenient location courtesy of appointment queuing.

Additionally, if you want to evaluate how well virtual appointments and drive customer outcomes are working out for your business, you can make use of Teams Premium’s department-level or organization-level analytics that will be based on wait times as well as missed appointments.

Better registration experience at webinars

If you’re looking to grow your business further and want to use webinars to get there, then the Teams Premium add-on is a necessary tool. It ships with webinars designed to help you host these events easily while simultaneously saving you time and money.

Two presenters are connecting in the virtual green room before the webinar begins and Q&A is enabled to engage with attendees.

What’s more, webinars in Teams Premium let the presenters join the virtual green room to facilitate early preparation. This way it is easier for them to establish a connection and go through the brief. The webinar experience becomes seamless. Attendees are at liberty to interact with presenters via chat or Q&A.

Additionally, the webinar presenters now have more control over what attendees get to see thus enhancing professionalism and engagement. Moreover, the registration process has also been improved with registration waitlist and manual approval and the ability to customize the registration start and end times.

It should be noted that you can take your presentation to the next level using RTMP-in and an external encoder to deliver dynamic content. You can also use Teams Premium’s automated reminder emails to keep attendees on their toes and excited about your webinar. The email will feature a custom-branded header, webinar details, and a link to join the event.

Preview of a reminder email for a scheduled webinar within the Teams app.

And finally, you can make use of Microsoft’s Enterprise Content Deliver Network (eCDN) to further enhance live experiences within your organization. The feature lets you live stream global meetings, all-hands gatherings, and more seamlessly using Teams Live Events.

Moreover, it helps you establish a good internet connection thus ensuring that the video quality is good.

Note: Microsoft had previously highlighted its intention to scrap some key features from Teams licenses and transition them to the new Teams Premium license. The features include: live translated captions, custom Together Mode scenes, and virtual appointment options.

Do more with Teams Premium

Rather than sourcing for add-ons individually to cater to your various meeting needs, Microsoft Teams will provide you with a unified experience at a cheaper price. At this point, we invite you to also check out our detailed guide on how to get the most out of new Teams features.

Do you have a subscription Teams Premium subscription? Share your experience with us below.

Loadlibrary Failed With Error 126: How to Fix It in 5 Steps

When you try to run an application program, it checks if there is a particular DLL file in its directory. If the DLL is not found, it will search for another DLL file in its directory and load it into memory. It will then return an error code like 126 if it is not found.

While you can get away with ignoring some errors, you must watch out for this one. If it has occurred, your application will not run properly, and you might get serious problems like poor performance or even a PC crash due to this error message.

What is LoadLibrary failed with error code 126? 

LoadLibrary failed with error code 126 is a generic error message displayed when an application fails to load one of its DLL files. If the application has tried to use a DLL and it cannot be found, or if the specified module could not be created, then this error will occur.

Other reasons include:

  • Bad or corrupt DLL file – If you have recently upgraded your computer or installed a new piece of software, this may be the problem.
  • Security settings – You may have some security settings on your system preventing your application from accessing the files from the library file. For example, if you have disabled user access to directories or limited administrative privileges.
  • The file doesn’t exist – If your application requires a specific DLL, make sure it is available on your system. It is possible that the file you’re trying to load doesn’t exist on your computer.
  • Conflicting graphic cards – If you have more than one GPU installed, Windows will try to use whichever one has the best performance at any given time. Sometimes, Windows can’t detect the second GPU.
  • Wrong registry setting – You may also have made the wrong registry setting for your operating system. It can be a bad path or location or an incorrect value or type of setting.

How do I fix Loadlibrary failed with error 126?

We recommend you try a few basic workarounds before jumping to the technical steps:

1. Run the program with administrative privileges

  1. Find the problematic program on your desktop, right-click on it, and select Properties.
  2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab, check the Run this program as an administrator box then click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

2. Run the SFC scan 

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following command, then hit Enter: sfc /scannowsfc scan command in command prompt.

3. Disable your integrated graphics card 

  1. Click on the Start Menu icon, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your graphics card, and select Disable device.

Integrated GPUs are the primary video cards found in many laptops, but they have a significant drawback: they’re not as powerful as dedicated GPUs and offer significantly lower performance.

Disabling your integrated graphics will cause your laptop to use the dedicated GPU, allowing you to get much higher performance out of your computer. This will particularly be helpful, especially if the problematic program requires a powerful GPU.

4. Copy the DLL file to the System32 path 

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following command then hit Enter: C:\Windows\System32\ copy atio6axx.dll .dll
  3. Restart your PC and try launching the program again.

5. Perform a clean boot

  1. Hit the Windows key, type msconfig, and open System Configuration.
  2. Switch to the Services tab and select Hide all Microsoft services.
  3. Click on the Disable all button, then hit the Apply button to save the changes.
  4. Go back and click on the Startup tab, select Open Task Manager then click OK.
  5. In the Startup tab of the Task Manager, Disable all the Enabled startup items.
  6. Close the Task Manager and restart your PC.

If, after trying all the steps above and you are still experiencing the Loadlibrary failed with error 126, we recommend you reinstall the problematic app.

It is possible that it has been corrupted, and you need a fresh install. Ensure to remove any file remnants to avoid reinstalling the same corrupt program.

While you’re still here, check out our article on a similar issue for LoadLibrary failed with error 1114.

Let us know if you have been able to resolve this error in the comment section below.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Copilot brings AI to business applications

The next generation of AI product updates is here with the launch of the new Microsoft Dynamics 365 Copilot to provide AI assistance across business functions.  Dynamics 365 Copilot, gives organizations the ability to empower workers with AI tools built for sales, service, and marketing.  AI in these departments is used to help reduce repetitive tasks.

Copilot in Dynamics 365 Insights for example allows marketers to create highly focused content focused at specific customer segments by having a dialogue with their customer data platform.  Using Copilot in Dynamics 365 Marketing allows marketing teams to describe a specific customer segment in their own words to get fresh email marketing ideas..

Alongside Bing Chat, Microsoft continues to build on its AI platform across Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, and Power Platform.  This includes next-generation AI capabilities in Microsoft Teams, Viva Sales, and Power Apps.  You can read more about today’s announcement here and join Microsoft for an event on March 16th to discuss the next step in the journey to enhance productivity with AI. You can RSVP for the event at the Microsoft LinkedIn page.

0x80090027: How to Fix This PIN Error in 4 Steps

The system can be logged into using a security key, PIN, fingerprint, or face recognition, among other methods, on Windows 11. However, some of our readers claim to have experienced the error code 0x80090027 when using the PIN identification on their devices.

In this article, we will address the possible causes of this error and potential steps to fix Windows 11 PIN issues. We know how to fix the PIN in Windows 10 as well if you didn’t update to the latest OS yet.

What causes the error code 0x80090027?

Whenever users come across the error message Something went wrong, and your PIN isn’t available code: 0x80090027 while trying to sign into Windows, several reasons could have triggered this error code:

  • System file corruption – One of the major reasons behind this error code is due to corrupted or damaged data. You might not be able to enter your PIN if the data in the NCG folder is corrupted. Repairing your system files should prove a positive fix for this error.
  • Permission issues – Based on the user’s experience, we have learned that there are possibilities where various permission issues may interfere with the Windows PIN login option.
  • Malware infection – Whenever you can’t get access to your computer, it could be a sign that your PC is infected with malware or viruses. Using any of the best antivirus software should help you.
  • Conflicting applications – Several applications might interfere with your PIN, such as the Dell Data Protection security tools.
  • Using an incorrect or outdated PIN – Some users also claim they encountered this error code after entering an outdated PIN.

Now that you know some of the potential reasons if you get the We were unable to set up your PIN error in Windows 11, you can now explore some of the best solutions in this article.

How can I fix the error code 0x80090027?

Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks, users should ensure they perform the following preparatory checks:

  • Restart your PC.
  • Make sure that your Windows 11 PC is up to date.
  • Ensure that you are properly connected to the Internet in case where you need to reset your PIN.
  • Make sure the PIN entered is correct.
  • Remove Dell Data Protection security tools using one of the best uninstaller software.

Having confirmed the above checks and you still require further assistance on fixing the error code 0x80090027, you can work your way through any of the steps provided below.

1. Reset the Login PIN

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Now, select Accounts on the left pane. Next, click on the Sign-in options.
  3. Select PIN (Windows Hello).
  4. Click on Change PIN.
  5. Enter the Existing PIN once and the New PIN two times.
  6. Then, click OK.

The above steps apply if you are already signed in. You should be able to fix the error code 0x80090027 by resetting your PIN using any of the methods above. However, if the issue persists, the error is likely caused by your OS.

2. Delete the NCG folder and set a new PIN

  1. Press the Windows + E keys and navigate to the path below: C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\NGC
  2. Click on Continue and then on the Security link in case you come across a permission-related warning.
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab and login as an Administrator By changing the Owner to your Microsoft account, then click on Apply.
  4. Now go to the NGC folder and delete all the files there.
  5. Then, go to Settings\Accounts\Sign-in options as shown in step 1 and set a new pin.

The NGC folder is where all of Windows’ PIN-related settings are found. Deleting the folder and creating a new PIN should help fix the 0x80090027 error code.

3. Modify your TPM Settings

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run command dialog box. Type the following command in the text field and press Enter: tpm.msc
  2. Then, select Prepare the TPM on the right pane.
  3. Now, restart your PC.

Another effective way to fix this error is if the hardware-layer encryption provided by Trusted Platform Module is activated to enable Windows Hello PIN to function (due to security concerns).

4. Reset your PC to factory settings

If, after applying all the fixes above, the problem persists, resetting your PC to factory settings would be the ultimate solution to fix the 0x80090027 error code.

You can explore our dedicated guide on how to factory reset Windows 11 in 3 easy ways.

By working through any of the fixes provided in this article you should be able to fix the 0x80090027 error. However, if Windows 10 or 11 won’t let you add a PIN, check out this guide for further assistance.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

Xbox Game Bar Not Working: How to Troubleshoot and Fix

Xbox is one of Windows 10’s default apps. This app integrates the Xbox with Windows and includes a handy Game Bar, but some can’t open it on Windows 10.

This Game Bar is a built-in tool you can use to take snapshots. It is also one of the best screen recording tools to use on your Windows PC. To open the Game Bar, you only need to press the Windows key + G with a window selected. So, let’s find out all about it.

Why won’t Xbox game bar open?

If the Game Bar is not opening on Windows 10 and Windows + G is not working, it might be because you altered the shortcut that opens the tool.

Also, the issue might be down to the Game Bar settings on your PC. Lastly, some registry settings can make the tool fail to work on your PC.

Moreover, some of them may be applied even when facing the following issues:

  • Xbox Game Bar shortcut not working – Windows + G not opening Game Bar: If pressing the Windows key + G makes no difference, it’s time to check your Xbox Game Bar settings.
  • Xbox Game Bar keeps turning off – Xbox Game Bar turns itself off: Chances are you need to use Game Mode, but the Game Bar repeatedly turns off. If so, edit the registry and change AllowGameDVR to 1.
  • Game DVR not working Windows 10: This is just a variation of the original issue, but if you encounter it, you should be able to solve it with the solutions from this article.
  • Can’t enable/open Xbox Game Bar – Xbox Game Bar not loading: Users reported that they can’t allow Game Bar on their PC. However, you can fix the issue by changing the Game bar settings.
  • Game bar not opening up on Steam, appearing: If you have issues with Game Bar and Steam, you might want to try changing the Game bar’s configuration. If that doesn’t work, you should try reinstalling the Xbox app.
  • Windows Game Bar nothing to record: Sometimes, you might get a message saying There’s nothing to record. We covered this issue in great detail in one of our older articles, so check it out for more solutions.
  • Xbox Game Bar not working in Windows 11, 10: The solutions below are applicable for both OSs, so make sure to follow them.
  • Xbox Game Bar not opening with controller – Try to uninstall, then reinstall the controller driver in order to fix this. This has worked for most users.
  • Xbox Game Bar not working properly – Not running the games in Full-Screen mode, proved to be one of the most effective solutions.
  • Xbox Game Bar not recording – Xbox Game Bar record button greyed out – Try to reinstall the feature through Powershell as we have shown in the 6th solution below.
  • Enable Xbox Game Bar not working – Check the feature’s Hotkey settings.
  • Xbox Game Bar party chat not working – If you create a new user profile, you might be able to get access to all the features included.
  • Xbox Game Bar not showing friends – Simply update your OS, then reboot it in order to bring everything up-to-date.

The Game Bar is usually enabled by default on your PC. But you can still follow the steps above to check if it is active.

How do I fix my Xbox game bar when it’s not working?

1. Check the Game bar’s Settings

  1. Search for Xbox in the Cortana search box and click the app.
    Can't enable Game bar
  2. Next, sign in to the Xbox app. Note that a Microsoft Account is required to sign in to the Xbox app.
  3. Click the Settings icon in the bottom left corner.
  4. Select Game DVR.
    Windows Game bar nothing to record
  5. Now, you can select Record game clips and screenshots using Game DVR option. If that option is off, click it to switch it back on.
  6. Close the Xbox app and then restart Windows.
  7. Press the Windows key + G again to open the Game bar.

It might be the case that the Game Bar Record game clips and screenshots setting is switched off in Windows 10.

Then the Game Bar isn’t going to open when you press its hotkey. So, you can check that option as described above.

2. Edit the Registry

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type regedit, and click OK.
    regedit
  2. Next, browse to the path below: HKEY_CURRENT_USER/SOFTWARE/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/GameDVR
  3. Then, right-click the AppCaptureEnabled DWORD and select Modify.
  4. If the DWORD’s value is 0, enter 1 in the Value data text box.
  5. Now, navigate to GameConfigStore.
    Windows 10 Game bar not working in fullscreen
  6. Right-click the GameDVR_Enabled DWORD and select Modify from the context menu to open the window below.
    Game bar not opening up on Steam
  7. Enter 1 in the Value data text box if its current value is 0.
  8. Restart Windows and press the Game bar hotkey.

You can also switch the Game Bar via the registry.

3. Don’t Run the Games in Full-Screen Mode

Is it the case that the Game Bar is not opening when you’re running a game on full screen? The Game Bar doesn’t open in full-screen modes because most games don’t recognize the Windows key + G hotkey.

That doesn’t mean you can’t use the Game Bar’s options in full-screen mode, but the overlay UI isn’t going to open. You can still record a game with the Windows + Alt + R hotkey or take a snapshot by pressing Windows + Alt + PrtScr.

Run the game in window mode and press the Windows key + G to open the Game Bar UI.

4. Check the Xbox app’s Hotkey Settings

  1. Press the Windows + I keys.
  2. Select the Gaming option.
    gaming option game bar not opening windows 10
  3. Check under the Keyboard shortcuts for the Game Bar hotkeys.
  4. To alter the hotkeys, fill in the field before Your shortcut with your desired shortcut.
    your game bar not opening windows 10
  5. Click the Save button.
    save

Check the Game Bar hotkeys haven’t been reconfigured in any way. The Xbox app enables users to customize the hotkeys so that somebody might have tinkered with the keyboard shortcut settings.

You can check the Game Bar hotkeys as described above.

5. Install the Windows Media Feature Pack

  1. Open this Windows Media Feature Pack page.
  2. Scroll down and click Download the Media Feature Pack update package now to save the installer.
  3. Open the folder to which you saved the Windows Media Feature Pack and run through its installer to add it to Windows.

Windows 10 N and KN versions don’t include all the media technologies and apps in more standard editions.

So if your platform is a Windows 10 N edition, that might be why the Game Bar isn’t opening for you.

Several apps need Windows Media files not included in Windows 10 KN or N.

However, you can install the media-related technologies otherwise lacking in Windows 10 N with the Windows Media Feature Pack.

6. Reinstall the Xbox Game Bar through Powershell

  1. Press Windows key + S and enter powershell.
  2. Right-click Windows PowerShell from the list of results and then choose Run as administrator.
    Windows 10 Game bar not working in fullscreen
  3. When PowerShell starts, run the following command to remove Xbox Game Bar: Get-AppxPackage xboxapp | Remove-AppxPackageremove game bar
  4. Once done, restart the computer.
  5. Now, open Microsoft Store, and then download Xbox Game bar and other applications all over again.download

If you were wondering how do I reinstall Xbox game bar, deleting the app via PowerShell and then downloading it from the Microsoft Store is the easiest way to go.

The Game Bar is a feature closely related to the Xbox app, and if you have any issues with it, you might be able to fix them simply by reinstalling the Xbox app.

Reinstalling a core Windows application is a slightly advanced process that involves PowerShell, but you should be able to reinstall the Xbox app without issues by following the above procedure.

After running this command, the Xbox app will be removed from your PC. You must open the Microsoft Store app and download the Xbox app again.

Once you download it, the problem with the Game bar should be entirely resolved.

7. Turn the Game Bar off and on

  1. If you wonder How do I enable the Game Bar on Windows 10?, press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Select the Gaming option.gaming Xbox Game Bar not Working or Opening
  3. Toggle the switch under the Xbox Game Bar backward to disable it. Now, wait for a few moments and turn it back on again.
    toggle

If you are wondering how do I fix my Xbox game bar not popping up, simply turning the Game bar off and on or updating the OS should work. This is a temporary workaround, but it might help you with this issue.

After that, the Game Bar should start working again. Remember that this is just a temporary workaround, and if you encounter issues with the Game Bar, you’ll need to repeat this solution.

8. Create a new user account

  1. Open the Settings app and navigate to the Accounts section.
    Game bar something went wrong
  2. From the menu on the left, pick Family & other people.
  3. In the right pane, click the Add someone else to this PC icon.
    Game bar not appearing
  4. Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
    Game DVR not working Windows 10
  5. Choose to Add a user without a Microsoft account.
    Can't enable Game bar
  6. Enter the desired user name and click on Next.
    Windows Game bar nothing to record

According to users, problems with the Game Bar can occur if your user profile is damaged or corrupted. However, you might be able to fix the problem simply by creating a new user account.

To do that, you need to follow these simple steps from above. After creating a new user account, switch to it, and check if that solves your problem.

If the problem doesn’t appear on the new account, you need to move all your files to the new account and use it instead of your old account.

9. Use third-party solutions

If you can’t fix the problem with the Game Bar, you might want to consider using third-party software.

Although the Game Bar comes preinstalled with Windows 10, it has certain limitations, and if you can’t get it to work correctly, you might want to try some other Windows 10 screen recording software.

If you’re looking for a different application to record your screen and gameplay sessions, we strongly recommend trying Icecream Screen Recorder.

This tool is straightforward and offers certain features that the Game Bar lacks, so feel free to try it out.

Speaking about recording issues, one particular topic caught our attention, and we would like to share it quickly with you.

What can I do if Xbox Game Bar is not opening on Windows 11?

If the Game Bar is not opening on Windows 11, it might be because you have not enabled it from the settings. You can follow the steps in this guide to activate the tool.

Also, it might be down to some glitches with the tool. Disabling and enabling the tool after some minutes should solve this. Lastly, you can apply any fixes in this guide to solve the problem.

Xbox Game Bar stops recording when switching Windows

While many users struggle with the Xbox Game Bar not recording, others only encounter this issue when switching between apps or using the Alt + Tab key combination in the browser. You can fix this by updating the tool by following the steps below:

  1. To do that, open the Windows Update settings from the Start menu.
  2. Next, press the Check for updates button. Thus, you will activate the search and, consequently, the installation of these files.
  3. Finally, restart your PC and check if the issue is still there.

There you have it: Everything you need to fix the Game Bar not opening issue. If this issue appears, it can be because gaming features aren’t available for the Windows Desktop, but we have another guide addressing this.

Good luck with the troubleshooting, and don’t be shy to let us know if any of these solutions helped you solve the Xbox Game Bar not working issues.

Best Free and Open Source Driver Updater for Windows 11 (2026 Guide)

A driver updater software helps you automatically update all the drivers on your PC and keeps them in check afterward. It’s a better alternative to Device Manager, offering extra features like scheduling, backups, and broader compatibility.

Today, we’ll walk you through some of the best free and open-source driver updater software available.

What are the best free/ open-source driver updaters for my PC?

Tip icon Tip
A few of the driver updater tools listed here aren’t fully free—they may offer limited trial versions with restricted features. Similarly, while some aren’t open-source, we’ve included them for their reliable performance and ability to detect and install the latest drivers seamlessly.

Fortect Driver Updater -free tool for scanning, reporting, and backing up drivers

Fortect Driver Updater is not open source, but it earns a spot here thanks to its reliability and ease of use.

It offers a free version that scans your system, detects outdated or missing drivers, and provides a clear report of what needs attention.

This can be especially useful when open-source tools miss certain drivers or don’t offer a clear overview of your system. Fortect draws from a large and regularly updated driver database, which helps it identify the right drivers even for older or uncommon hardware.

The software also includes backup options, so you can safely restore previous versions of drivers if needed.

Fortect Driver Updater

Never worry about driver issues with this powerful driver updater.
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Outbyte Driver Updater – Easy-to-use driver updater

For those trying to find out, what is the safest free driver updater, it’s, without a doubt, Outbyte Driver Updater.

Outbyte Driver Updater is a safe and useful tool that will update all your drivers in just a few clicks. Apart from updating old drivers, it will help you fix missing or faulty drivers, Blue Screen of Death errors, perform driver backups, and much more.

Also, you can use Outbyte Driver Updater as a download manager to see the progress of every individual file and also perform scheduled scans.

Here are a few key features of Outbyte Driver Updater:

  • Update old, missing, or corrupt drivers smoothly
  • Fix system-related issues
  • Can be used as a download manager
  • Perform driver backups

Outbyte Driver Updater

Update your old, missing, or broken drivers and fix system-related matters without any effort.
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Driver Easy – Scan drivers offline

With Driver Easy, you can update old and outdated drivers pretty easily. It even comes with the option to scan for outdated drivers offline, which you can update later when you go online. So, for those trying to discover which is the best driver updater, the search ends with Driver Easy.

Driver Easy offers the ability to perform driver backups and also restore them when needed. It can uninstall drivers for you as well.

It is lightweight and super-easy to use. Driver Easy uses fewer resources, so it can sit on your PC without you needing to worry about your PC’s performance.

Here are some of the highlights of Driver Easy:

  • Scan for outdated drivers without an internet connection
  • Perform driver backups
  • It is lightweight and easy to use
  • Can be used to uninstall drivers as well

Driver Easy

Scan without an internet connection and install the drivers you need with this great app.
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Ashampoo Driver Updater – Creates restore points after each update

Ashampoo is a popular name for helping troubleshoot multiple PC problems. And the Ashampoo Driver Updater is another product from the company that is solely meant to facilitate updating drivers.

The tool is easy to use and set up and automatically scans your PC for drivers. It lets you update drivers in just a few clicks.

You can also boost system performance using this tool. Ashampoo Driver Updater is small in size and performs quick scans.

Here are some of the best features of Ashampoo Driver Updater:

  • Helps boost your system performance
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Creates driver backups after every update
  • Support multiple languages

Ashampoo Driver Updater

An easy-to-use tool that helps boost your system performance by updating your device drivers.
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IObit Driver Booster – Most advanced features

Driver Booster from IObit is one of the advanced open-source driver updaters for PC. It comes with an easy-to-understand interface but with powerful features.

It supports Windows 10, back up to Windows Vista, and XP (32-bit and 64-bit), and can update drivers in no time.

The driver updater has a database of over 3,500,000 drivers, and it can also be used on offline PCs. It also creates a restore point before every driver update in case the updated driver malfunctions or misbehaves.

It is one of our recommended open-source driver updater software, and you can refer to our guide that will help you update drivers with IObit Driver Booster.

Here are the best features of IObit Driver Booster:

  • Supports updating multiple drivers at once
  • Finds and updates game components as well
  • Creates a system restore point before each driver update
  • Schedule your PC to turn off or restart after the driver updates

IObit Driver Booster

Save time and effortlessly update multiple drivers at once with the IObit Driver Booster program.
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DriverMax – Offers automatic scheduler for driver updates

DriverMax is another good driver updater with multiple features that will facilitate updating drivers. It comes with a 30-day free trial, after which you need to purchase the subscription.

It also features automated installs, and scheduled scans, allowing you to check for driver updates or install them at any time of the day.

The DriverMax tool also has the option to perform driver backups, which comes in handy when your operating system crashes or things go south.

Here are some of the best features of DriverMax:

  • Gives you the option to perform automatic installs
  • Comes with scheduled scans
  • Offers driver backup option
  • Scans the driver before installing them to prevent virus attacks

DriverMax

An amazing program that facilitates updating your device drivers thanks to its multiple useful features.
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Driver Fusion – No-nonsense driver updater

While you can update drivers on your Windows PC using the Driver Fusion open-source driver updater software, it comes with some additional features.

Notably, you can use this tool to clean the software or software entries left behind by earlier drivers, clearing out space.

You can also use Driver Fusion to create a backup of your system files, settings, and desktop. This comes in handy when you are resetting your PC or making any important changes.

Driver Fusion also helps you to know the temperature, power usage, and clock speed of the devices on your PC.

Some key features of Driver Fusion include:

  • Update scheduler features
  • Creates backups of your computer’s system files, settings, and desktop
  • Monitor temperature, clock speed, power usage, etc.
  • Fix system-related issues.

⇒ Get Driver Fusion

Driver Talent – Quick driver updater

Another free open-source driver updater software is Driver Talent. It installs quickly and scans for outdated drivers quickly as well.

You can use this tool to update drivers and get rid of driver-related issues, but also fix the corrupt ones already installed on your PC.

It backs up all your drivers before updating them in case something goes wrong. It supports Windows 11, Windows 10, 8, 7, Windows Vista, and XP. So, you will not face any issues with it even running on the latest Windows PC.

Some of the best features of Driver Talent are:

  • Easy-to-use
  • Creates backups before driver update
  • Fixes corrupt drivers
  • Supports almost all versions of Windows

⇒ Get Driver Talent

DriversCloud – Sends email alerts for new drivers

DriversCloud is another open source driver updater that you can look out for, as it helps you locate missing and update outdated drivers on your PC.

After the installation, launch the program and hit the Launch Detection button to let the tool scan all of your PC components and their corresponding software.

The result will open in a web browser, you can then hit the See Recommended Downloads option to update all outdated drivers.

It is a bit complicated but gets the job done. If you are looking for an easy-to-use driver updater, you should opt for other options in this list. One of the best features of this tool is that it will send you email alerts if a new driver update is available for your PC.

Here are some of the highlights of DriversCloud:

  • Sends email alerts for new driver updates
  • Creates a restore point
  • Bulk download is supported
  • Can also be used offline

⇒ Get DriversCloud

DriverIdentifier – Can be used as a portable driver updater

If your need is to update the drivers on your PC, then DriverIdentifier is the one tool that you should go for.

It is fast, easy, and portable as well, meaning you can use it without the need to install. The results open in the web browser, where you can download the drivers manually.

DriverIdentifier scans for outdated drivers even when you are not connected to the internet. The list of drivers is then saved in a file that you can open later when you connect to the internet to update drivers.

It works with the latest Windows 11 as well as Windows 7, Vista, XP, and Windows Server.

Checkout the best features of DriverIdentifier:

  • Can be used as a portable tool
  • Scans for outdated drivers even without internet
  • Easy to understand

⇒ Get DriverIdentifier

DriverHub – Automatic driver updater

DriverHub comes with the option to update drivers on your PC without any manual input. This negates the need to scan your PC whenever you wish to update drivers.

It also comes with the option to restore drivers in case something goes wrong. The tool is free of cost and is one of the best free and open-source driver updater software you could ask for.

It has a clean user interface making it easy to understand and handle. You can also check out detailed information about drivers to install alternatives.

Here are some of the best features of DriverHub:

  • Simple interface
  • Download drivers in bulk
  • Installs driver automatically

⇒ Get DriverHub

Why should I update my drivers?

Here are a few reasons you should update the drivers in Windows:

  • Effective functioning of the devices: An updated driver ensures that the corresponding connected device, be it the graphics adapter or network adapter, amongst others, works properly.
  • Resolving compatibility issues: Running an outdated driver often triggers compatibility issues, especially when updating or upgrading the OS.
  • Fixing BSOD errors: Updating the installed drivers can help fix a range of BSOD errors, which usually have to do with an outdated graphics adapter.
  • Boosting computer performance: Another significant benefit of updating the drivers is improved computer performance due to effectively relaying commands between the OS and the connected devices.

That’s all from us in this guide for the driver updater open-source software in Windows. So, if you were earlier wondering, is there a free driver updater, you now know the best ones in the market.

If you are looking for some of the best driver updaters for Windows 10, then you can check out our curated list of some of the best updaters that are available for free.

Other driver resources you might find helpful include a comprehensive guide to the best free driver updater software for Windows 11.

Let us know in the comments below which one of the above driver updaters you opted for and if that helped you with your task or not.

Microsoft Loop rolls out in private preview

In 2021, Microsoft announced Microsoft Loop, a new collaborative canvas allowing teams to collaborate across Microsoft 365 apps. The app is designed to let users leverage Microsoft’s own Fluid Framework thus allowing you to manage various Loop snips.

Things have been relatively quiet on that front since then, though last year in August, the experience’s homepage and signup page leaked. However, at the time, the signup page didn’t work rendering it impossible to try out the new Loop app. It indicated that the public preview hadn’t started.

As it happens, the company is finally ready to let users try out Microsoft Loop but in private preview. Over the weekend, Microsoft Loop’s Project Manager, Rebecca Keys took to her Twitter account to make the announcement and indicated that “private preview invites just got delivered to a bunch of people on our waitlist.”

Petri Jämsen, who’s part of the Microsoft Education team also reiterated Rebecca’s announcement and Tweeted out a photo confirming that Loop private preview invites are being sent out.

Microsoft Loop already has a Twitter account but it is private with the following tagline in the bio:

Think, Plan and Create — Together

We invite you to check out our previous post that highlights all the features that ship with this nifty tool, Microsoft provides an overview of Microsoft Loop.

Have you received Loop’s private preview invite? Let us know in the comment section below.

Clear Run History Windows 11: How to Delete It in 6 Steps

If you use the Run console frequently, you’ll notice that each command you enter is saved and displayed every time you reopen it. This is a neat feature, but after a while, things can get quite messy when the commands accumulate. At this point, you’ll need to clear your Run history.

To help you organize your Run box, this article will provide you with all the steps needed to clear your Run history.

Is it possible to locate the Run history on Windows 11?

Yes. It is entirely possible to locate the run history in Windows 11. However, locating the run history isn’t as straightforward as searching for files on a hard drive or clearing app caches.

The Run command history is saved and stored in the Windows Registry. The only possible way to delete the run history is to navigate to the Registry Editor and delete the specific keys that hold the history of every Run command you’ve made in the past.

How can I clear win history in windows 11?

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type regedit in the Run box, and hit Enter.
  2. In the Registry Editor window, copy and paste the following path in the address bar, and press Enter: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RunMRU
  3. In the next popup window, you’ll see a list of DWord values labeled as a,b,c,d, …. Each of these values represents a command that you’ve previously entered in the Run box.
  4. Right-click on each of the values and select Delete.
  5. Click on Yes when you are asked to confirm.
  6. Repeat the process until you Delete all of the Registry keys representing your Run history.

While deleting the DWord values, ensure you never delete the default DWord value. Deleting the Default would certainly mess up your system and could lead to a chain of Windows 11 system errors.

Clearing the run history on any Windows OS is a pretty straightforward task if you know what to do.  It requires zero troubleshooting or technical skills.

You might also be interested in reading our guide on what to do if the Run console doesn’t store your commands in Windows.

With the steps above, you should be able to delete your Run Commands history completely.

This neat feature will let you upscale low quality videos in Edge

Microsoft is currently testing out a new feature in the Edge Canary channel dubbed Video Super Resolution. The feature is powered by AI technology from Microsoft research and is designed to upscale videos with low resolutions in Edge. It makes use of machine learning to enhance the quality of these videos.

The company highlighted that “one out of three videos are played at 480p or a lower resolution in Microsoft Edge.” There are a couple of reasons why the video quality might be low. First up, the media provider served a low-resolution video, low network bandwidth, or the video itself might be of low quality.

It is very apparent that watching poor-quality videos isn’t an enjoyable experience, especially if you are doing that on a device that ships with high-resolution capabilities and is connected to a stable internet connection. It just doesn’t cut it. Poor-quality videos are blurry and make it impossible for users to follow fast-moving objects.

Video Super Resolution essentially cleans up low-quality videos by getting rid of compression artifacts and then upscaling the video resolution. However, this new capability will be limited to certain devices because of the computation power required to upscale these videos.

The device must have either an Nvidia RTX 20/30/40 series or an AMD RX5700-RX7800 series GPU. Additionally, the video being upscaled must be less than 720p resolution. What’s more, the video’s height and width must be greater than 192 pixels. The device must also be connected to AC power.

Another condition that must be met is that the video shouldn’t be protected using Digital Rights Management technologies like PlayReady or Widevine. This is because it restricts the use of frames which are required during the upscaling process.

Microsoft has indicated that it is also working on automatic Hybrid GPU support for laptops with multiple GPUs. In the meantime, it recommends the use of VSR by changing Windows settings, which will force Edge to run on your discrete GPU.

At the moment, this feature is available to 50% of users that are part of Edge’s Canary Channel and they should be able to access the feature as long as their devices meet the set requirements highlighted above.

If the feature is available for you, you’ll see an HD icon in your address bar. You can click on it to upscale videos with low quality on Edge, and click on it once more to disable it. Alternatively, you can enable the feature manually by toggling on the edge://flags/#edge-video-super-resolution flag.

Have you accessed this feature? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

0x80072eff: How to Fix This Windows Update Error

If you have encountered the 0x80072eff Windows update error, then the reason could be incomplete or corrupt Windows update installation or damaged system files. This guide will cover expert-tested fixes to resolve the issue after discussing the causes.

What causes the 0x80072eff Windows update error?

There could be various reasons for the Windows update error; some of the common ones are: 

  • Malware infection – Viruses and malware can damage essential data on your computer. If your computer is infected, then you might get this update error. To fix this, you must run a scan using reliable antivirus software.
  • Corrupt registry database – If the registry entries on your computer are damaged somehow, you might get this error.
  • Incorrect Windows update – Installing a Windows update correctly is vital to run your PC smoothly. If an update is interrupted while installing, it could cause a lot of errors, including this one. 
  • Corrupt system files – If your system files are deleted or damaged, you might get this Windows update error.

What can I do to fix the 0x80072eff Windows update error?

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

1. Clean Windows Update temporary folder

1.1 Stop Windows Update service 

  1. Press Windows+ R to open the Run window. Services Run Command
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open Services. 
  3. Locate and right-click Windows Update to select Stop. Windows Update stop 0x80072eff

1.2 Delete the contents of the Data Store folder 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. 
  2. Type the following path and press Enter: %windir%\SoftwareDistribution\DataStoreRun command datastore 0x80072eff
  3. In the DataStore folder, press Ctrl + A to select all the files and click the Delete button from the Windows Explorer menu. Delete

1.3 Start the Windows Update service 

  1. Go to Services.
  2. Locate and right-click Windows Update to open the context menu. 
  3. Select Start to restart the service. Windows Update Start

2. Repair system files 

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. DOS COmmand Prompt
  2. Type the following command to run System File Checker, which will scan & repair system files, and press Enter: sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD
  3. Once the process is complete, restart your computer. 

3. Reset Windows Store Cache

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type the following command to reset the Windows Store cache and click OK: wsreset.exeWindows store cache reset 0x80072eff
  3. Once done, restart your computer and launch Microsoft to check if the error persists. 

4. Delete the local cache 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. 
  2. Type the following command and click OK: %localappdata%\\Packages\\Microsoft.WindowsStore_8wekyb3d8bbwe\\LocalState0x80072eff Cache  content delete
  3. You will be navigated to the Local State folder and locate the Cache folder. 
  4. Select all the content, right-click it, and choose the Delete icon. Delete content 0x80072eff
  5. Now restart your computer and check if the error persists. 

5. Reregister the Windows Store cache

  1. Press the Windows key, type PowerShell, and click Run as administrator. Powershell 2
  2. Copy and  paste the following command and press Enter: Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml”}Reregister
  3. Please wait until the process is done, then launch Windows Store to confirm the issue is resolved. 

6. Change internet settings 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. CP
  2. Select Category for View by and click Network and Internet. Network and Internet 0x80072eff
  3. Select Internet options. Internet options
  4. On the Internet properties window, go to the Advanced tab. 
  5. Locate Security, go through the list, and place a checkmark next to Use SSL 2.0, Use SSL 3.0, Use TLS 1.0, Use TLS 1.1, and Use TLS 1.2.Apply and OK
  6. Click Apply, then OK. 

7. Restore your system using System Restore

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. explorer_Yvy2nFvRaI
  2. Type rstrui and press Enter to open the System Restore window. 
  3. Now select Choose a different restore point and click Next. Next Choose a different restore point 0x80072eff
  4. Choose the restore point from the list and click Next. Click Next
  5. Now click Finish, and your computer will be restored to the point chosen. Finish Restore point

So, these are some available fixes to resolve the 0x80072eff Windows Update error. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below. 

Diagnosing Your PC: How to Get Out of This Error Loop

If your computer is stuck in diagnosing your PC screen, then this guide can help!  Your PC is stuck in the loop either due to corrupted BCD data, missing system files, or insufficient disk space. 

In this guide, we will discuss some of the available methods to fix the issue right after talking about the potential causes of the issue. Let’s start!  

Why is the computer stuck on diagnosing your PC screen?

The diagnosing your PC error loop could stem from various factors; some of the common ones are listed here: 

  • Damaged system files – If your Windows system files are missing or damaged, your computer might get stuck in a loop. You need to run a system repair command to fix the issue.
  • Insufficient disk space – Insufficient disk space can cause many issues, including this one. You need to retrieve space on your computer to resolve this issue.
  • A glitch in Automatic Repair utility – If there are system drive issues, Automatic Repair utility will try to open at startup. However, if it will not be able to find the culprit, your computer will be stuck in a loop. To fix it, you need to disable the utility using an elevated Command Prompt.
  • BCD data corrupted – If the booting data is corrupted, then it could prevent the startup from getting completed. Therefore you get stuck on the screen. You need to refresh the Windows component by doing a clean install. 

What can I do if the computer is stuck in the diagnosing your PC screen? 

1. Run the Disk Cleanup tool

  1. Restart your computer and press F8 repeatedly until you get Advanced Boot options
  2. Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode or press F4 to enter Safe mode. Enable safe mode
  3. Wait until the booting sequence is complete, and press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. 
  4. Type cleanmgr and click OK to open Disk Cleanup. Cleanmgr Run command - diagnosing your pc
  5. On the Disk Cleanup: Drive Selection window, select the drive and click OK.Cleanmgr 2
  6. On the next window, click Clean up System files.Clean up
  7. Again on the Disk Cleanup: Drive Selection window, select the drive and click OK.
  8. Select the files under the Files to delete, and click OK.Cleanmgr 4
  9. Next, click Delete Files. Cleanmgr 5
  10. Once completed, restart your computer and check if the computer starts normally. 

2. Use Command Prompt to run SFC & DISM command 

2.1 Create an installation media

  1. On another device, go to Windows 11 website. 
  2. Go to the installation media, click Download, and double-click to run the tool. Create Windows media diagnosing your pc
  3. On the Windows setup window, click  Accept.Accept the terms
  4. Select language and edition and click Next. Windows 11 edition
  5. Now on Choose which media to use window, select the USB flash drive option, and click Next.Setup 5
  6. Select your USB drive on the next screen and click Next.
  7. Once the installation media is ready click Finish to close the wizard. 

2.2 Repair your computer 

  1. Insert the installation media and restart your computer. Now press any key to boot from the installation media.
  2. On the installation media window, click Repair your computer.Repair your computer
  3. On the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot. Choose an option - Troubleshoot diagnosing your pc
  4. Now select Advanced options.Advanced options
  5. Click Command Prompt from the Advanced options screen.Command Prompt Advanced Options .
  6. On the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: sfc/scannow
  7. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthCMD DISM & SFC
  8. Restart your computer once the process is complete. 

3. Restore your computer to the previous version

  1. Create an installation media using the steps in method 2, insert it in the USB slot on your computer, and restart it.
  2. On the installation screen, click the Repair your computer option.
  3. Go to Troubleshoot, then click Advanced options.
  4. Under Advanced options, select Command Prompt.
  5. Once the Command Prompt window is up, type the following command to open the System Restore window and press Enter: rstruirstrui command prompt diagnosing your pc
  6. On the System Restore window, either choose Recommended restore or click on Choose a different restore point option and click Next.Next Choose a different restore point
  7. Select the restore point and click Next. Choose a point
  8. Click Finish to close the window. Finish Restore point
  9. Restart your computer to see if the computer boots normally. 

4. Disable the Automatic Repair utility 

  1. Restart your computer and press  F8 repeatedly until you see the initial screen. You will get the Advanced Boot options screen. 
  2. On the Advanced Boot options screen, select Safe mode with networking using arrow keys or press F5.Enable safe mode with networking
  3. Once in Safe mode, press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. DOS COmmand Prompt
  4. Type the following command to disable Automatic Repair Utility  and press Enter: bcdedit /set recoveryenabled NO
  5. Restart your computer and check if it starts normally. 

5. Perform a clean installation

  1. Restart your computer and press F2, F10, or the designated by your device manufacturer to enter BIOS mode.
  2. Go to the Boot menu, click Change the boot order, and select the USB drive from the options to start using the USB to boot your computer. Boot-order
  3. Insert the installation media and restart your computer. Upon restarting, press any key to continue.
  4. On the setup wizard, click Next.English US diagnosing your pc
  5. Click the Install button. Install now
  6. Now click the I don’t have a product key option if you are reinstalling Windows.
  7. Select the version that you want to install and click Next.select-w11-version
  8. Click Accept on the Applicable notices and license terms page.accept-terms-of-service-w11 
  9. Click Next. 
  10. Choose Custom Install.custom-install-w11
  11. Create partition in the hard drive.
  12. Choose the hard drive Partition on which you want to install Windows 11.select-drive
  13. Click Next.
  14. Now follow all the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

So, these are the methods that you can follow to get rid of diagnosing your PC screen. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section.

DCOM Error 1084: What is It & How to Fix It?

DCOM error 1084 occurs in Windows when there is a problem with the DCOM (Distributed Component Object Model) service.

The DCOM service allows software components to communicate with each other on a network. In this guide, we will discuss all the expert-tested methods to fix the error right after examining the causes for the same. 

What causes the DCOM error 1084 on Windows 11?

There could be various reasons why this DCOM error occurs; some of the common ones are: 

  • Malware infection – If your computer is infected with malware or viruses, it could damage the DCOM service, hence the error. You need to run a malware scan to remove malware infection.
  • Misconfigured system settings – If your computer system settings are not configured properly, it could cause issues with the DCOM service;  hence, you see this error.
  • Damaged Windows system files – If your Windows system files are corrupted or missing, it could cause errors, including this one. You need to run the system file checker scan to repair the files.
  • Third-party software interference – If two third-party software are conflicting, it could cause issues with the DCOM service. It would be best to uninstall the problematic software to fix the problem.
  • Registry errors – If the registry files are missing or corrupted, you might face this DCOM service error. You might need to run a registry cleaner app to fix the problem.

What can I do to fix the DCOM error 1084 on Windows 11? 

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

1. Use the Services app to check the status of the DCOM services

  1. Press Windows +  R  to open the Run dialog box.Services Run Command
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services app.
  3. Go to DCOM Service Process Launcher and double-click it to open Properties.
  4. On the Properties window, select Startup type as Automatic and click the Start button under the Service status to ensure the service is running.
  5. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.DCOM service dcom error 1084
  6. Now locate these three services: Background Tasks Infrastructure Service, Local Session Manager, and Remote Procedure Call (RPC), and repeat the same process for them.

2. Reinstall the graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.Device Manager RUN COMMAND
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open Device Manager.
  3. Go to Display adapters and double-click it to expand.
  4. Locate, and right-click the graphics driver to select Uninstall driver.Uninstall graphics driver dcom error 1084
  5. Restart your computer, and Windows will install the appropriate driver during Restart.

3. Repair the system files and Windows image

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.DOS COmmand Prompt
  2. Type the following command to scan & repair the system image and press Enter: sfc/scannow
  3. Copy and paste the following commands one by one to repair the Windows image, and press Enter after every command: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthCMD DISM & SFC dcom error 1084
  4. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.

4. Restore your computer to the previous version

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.CP
  2. Select Large icons from the drop-down next to Category, and click Recovery.Recovery Control Panel
  3. Click Open System Restore.Open system restoredcom error 1084
  4. Select Choose a different restore point in the System Restore window and click Next.Next Choose a different restore point
  5. Select the restore point and click Next.Choose a point
  6. Click Finish to start the process of restoring your computer to the previous version.Finish Restore point

5. Run your computer in safe mode

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Recovery.System - recovery
  3. Now next to Advanced startup, click Restart now.Advanced Startup dcom error 1084
  4. From the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot.Choose an option - Troubleshoot
  5. On the Troubleshoot option, select Advanced options.Advanced options
  6. On the Advanced options window, click Startup Settings.Startup Settings
  7. You will get a list; press F4 to boot your computer in Safe Boot mode.
  8. If the computer runs fine in safe mode, you need to check third-party software interfering with your computer.

6. Reset your PC

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and click Recovery.System - Recovery Windows 11
  3. Now next to Reset this PC, click Reset PC.Reset now dcom error 1084
  4. From the Choose an option window, select Keep my files.Keep my files
  5. On the How would you like to reinstall Windows screen, select Cloud download.Cloud download
  6. Now on the Additional settings page, click Next.additonal settings
  7. On the Ready to reset this PC screen, click Reset. Now, please wait for the process to complete.Reset

So, these are methods that you can follow to fix the DCOM error 1084 on Windows 11 or 10. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below.

MusNotifyIcon.exe: What Is It & How to Remove It

MusNotifyIcon.exe is one of several files used together to display status icons for Windows Updates in the Taskbar. Whenever a new update is ready to download, this file tells you.

Sometimes you’ll see a red exclamation point in the notifications. That means the file isn’t working. However, don’t delete or uninstall MusNotifyIcon.exe as removing it can cause notifications to not work.

What causes the MusNotifyIcon.exe error?

Before going into how to fix this error, it’s important to understand why this happens. If it ever happens again, you’ll know how to respond to it.

  • Your computer has corrupt system files – Corruption can cause certain functions not to work properly, so it’s important to clean them up as soon as you can.
  • Too many apps are open at once – Too many apps open can throttle a computer’s performance. Close some apps and any unnecessary windows. See if that makes a difference.
  • System32 config system is either missing or corrupt – System32 is an essential directory for PCs. To fix either a missing or corrupt directory, you may need to reinstall Windows.
  • There are problems with a newly installed update – Not every update that Microsoft rolls out will run well on your computer. It’s recommended that you uninstall it if something like this happens.
  • You may have accidentally deleted MusNotifyIcon.exe – Remember that deleting the file results in notifications failing. You can fix this by reinstalling Windows 11.
  • The hardware is beginning to fail – This is most common among old computers. Things will start to fail, so you should get a brand-new machine.

How do I fix MusNotifyIcon.exe?

Luckily, fixing this error is very easy, as several solutions exist. Before going into the slightly more complex ones, there are a few you should try out first:

  • Later, you’ll learn how to clean up corruption using your computer’s tools, but you should look into using some third-party software.
  • Try upgrading your computer using Windows 11 ISO. It’s possible to upgrade automatically using Windows Update, but you don’t have much control over what gets installed.
  • If you have a restore point on your computer, it’s recommended to restore the older version of Windows and see if that fixes the MusNotifyIcon.exe error.
  • And just as a warning, be careful with other solutions you may see online. They often tell you to download a file to fix the error, but be aware they may contain malware.

1. Install the latest Windows updates

  1. Launch the Settings menu and go to the Windows Update tab.
  2. In this section, click the Check for updates button to see if anything is available for download.
  3. Windows 11 will begin downloading the patch. Afterward, select Restart now to install the update and finish up. Depending on the size, it may take several minutes.

2. Force Windows update

  1. If MusNotifyIcon.exe doesn’t change after the update, there are a handful of things that you can do. First, open the Task Manager.
  2. Locate MusNotifyIcon.exe, right-click it, and select End Task in the context menu.
  3. Additionally, bring up the Command Prompt on the Windows 11 Search bar. Choose Run as Administrator.
  4. Type in the following command and hit Enter on your keyboard: Ren c:\windows\winsxs\pending.xml pending.old
  5. Once it finishes, restart your computer.

Command Prompt may deny you access and not allow you to run that command. Be sure to check out our guide on how to get the correct privileges.

3. Run SFC and DISM scan

  1. First, bring up the Command Prompt on the Windows 11 Search bar and choose Run as administrator.
  2. In the command line, type the following command in and hit Enter on your keyboard: sfc /scannow
  3. Give the process ample time to finish scanning.
  4. Once that’s done, type the following commands one after the other, and hit Enter after each one: dism /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth dism /online /cleanup-image /checkhealth dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  5. Just like before, give your Windows 11 computer enough time to finish. Once that’s done, reboot your computer to finish.

If this process fails to solve the file errors, you can replace this method with a dedicated PC repair solution that will surely detect broken files. Then, you only have to press a button to fix them.

What can I do if NTUSER.DAT isn’t working properly?

NTUSER.DAT is a lot like MusNotifyIcon.exe in that it’s a vitally important Windows 11 that should never be deleted but can also get corrupted. There are several ways to fix this.

First, you can delete user profiles with a bad copy of NTUSER.DAT or run a registry scan to fix the files. While we have you, it’s recommended that you learn how to fix Error Code 39.

The code appears whenever you’re trying to install new hardware on your computer to upgrade system performance, but the installation fails for whatever reason.

As recommended earlier, you can try running a System Restore to restore your computer to its previous state. But if that sounds too complicated, updating drivers has been shown to work.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about other important Windows 11 files. Also, leave comments about reviews that you’d like to see or information on other native features.

How to Use Dedicated Graphics Card Instead of Integrated

If you have a computer with integrated and dedicated graphics cards, you may want to choose the dedicated graphics card for better performance and superior graphics. This guide will cover the steps to use a dedicated graphics card instead of an integrated one. 

What are the advantages of using a dedicated graphics card instead of an integrated one?

There are several advantages of using a dedicated graphics card instead of an integrated one; some of them are mentioned here:

  • Performance – A dedicated graphics card has its processor (GPU) and memory, which allows it to perform graphics-related tasks much faster and more efficiently than an integrated one.
  • Better visuals – The dedicated graphics cards deliver better graphics quality, which is significant if you are a gamer, video editor, or graphic designer.
  • More VRAM – A dedicated graphics card has more video memory (VRAM) than an integrated graphics card, which is essential for running graphics-intensive applications and games.
  • Upgradability – Dedicated graphics cards are easy to upgrade or replace, allowing users to keep up with the latest graphics technologies and software requirements.

How can I use a dedicated graphics card instead of an integrated one? 

1. Nvidia

1.1 Switch to the dedicated graphics card 

  1. Right-click the empty space on the desktop and select the Nvidia Control Panel. 
  2. On Nvidia Control Panel, under 3D settings, click Manage 3D Settings. 
  3. To use the dedicated graphics card for all tasks performed, go to the Global settings tab, locate the Preferred graphics processor, and select the dedicated graphics card from the drop-down list. Global settings how to use dedicated graphics card instead of integrated
  4. Click Apply to save the changes. 

1.2 Assign a graphics card to an app

  1. Open Nvidia Control Panel and click Manage 3D settings.
  2. Go to the Program Settings tab.
  3. Under Select program to customize, you will get a drop-down list of programs; choose the one you want to use for the graphics card. Porgram Settings tab -how to use dedicated graphics card instead of integrated
  4. Under Select the preferred graphics processor for this program, choose the dedicated graphics card. 
  5. Once selected, click Apply to save the changes.

2. AMD

  1. Right-click the empty space on the desktop and select AMD Catalyst Control Centre.
  2. Go to Graphics.
  3. Choose Power from the left side menu; for Plugged In, select Maximum Performance, and for Battery, choose Maximize Battery Life. AMD power 1 -how to use dedicated graphics card instead of integrated
  4. Click Apply. 
  5. Now go to Switchable Graphics Global Settings. For Global Application Settings, select Maximize Battery Life for Battery, and choose Maximum Performance for Plugged In. AMD global settings how to use dedicated graphics card instead of integrated
  6. Click Apply.
  7. Go to Switchable Graphics Application Settings, click Add Application button and choose the .exe file from the list presented.Add app
  8. If you can’t find the program, click Add Application and follow the onscreen prompts to choose the app. 
  9. Once the app is selected, under Graphics Settings, choose High Performance.Graphics Settings
  10. Click Apply. 

So, these are steps to use a dedicated graphics card instead of an integrated one. Some programs have internal settings, allowing you to choose the graphics card and check those settings to ensure you use the dedicated one. 

Please let us know in the comments section below if you have questions or concerns. 

Microsoft news recap: Bing Chat metrics coming to Webmaster Tools, PC Game Pass arrives in 40 more countries, and more

Microsoft news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!

Microsoft will let you turn off Start menu recommendations on Windows 11 soon

One of the most popular requests for Windows 11 is to allow recommendations in the Start menu to be turned off. But Microsoft is now testing, in the Dev Channel of the Windows Insider Program, a new setting to turn off Start menu recommendations.

Bing Chat user engagement tracking coming to Bing Webmaster Tools

Marketers and website owners will be able to see how Bing Chat is leading to interactions with their website via Bing Webmaster Tools soon, as Microsoft is working to bring Bing Chat engagement metrics to its Webmaster Tools.

Microsoft expands PC Game Pass to 40 new countries

PC Game Pass has been expanded to 40 more countries in preview. Some of the countries include Albania, Algeria, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Georgia, and Egypt.

Windows 11’s next Moments Update includes AI, iOS support, screen recording, and more

A range of new features in the next major update for Windows 11 have been announced. Called the Moments Update internally, the update is expected to bring new features and improvements including AI, iOS support, screen recording, and more.

That’s it for this week. We will be back next week with more Microsoft news.

Virtual Disk Service Error: The Object is Not Found [Fix]

If you have encountered the virtual disk service error: the object is not found error while trying to create a primary partition on your disk, then the chances are your disk is not online or is corrupted. 

In this guide, we will cover some of the expert-tested methods to fix the issue right after discussing the causes of the same. 

What causes the virtual disk service error: the object is not found? 

There could be various reasons why you got this virtual disk service error; some of the common ones are: 

  • Volume or Disk is offline – If you are trying to manage a disk or volume which is offline, then the Virtual Disk Service (VDS) will not be able to locate it, hence the error. 
  • Disk or volume is corrupted – VDS might be unable to access the disk if it is corrupted, resulting in this disk error.
  • Issues with VDS service – If VDS is not running or working correctly, it might not be able to access the disk, hence the error. 
  • Virus infection – Malware infection can stop you from partitioning your device. If your computer has a virus infection, you will likely get this VDS error when partitioning. 
  • Missing system files – If the system files are either corrupted or missing, you might get this virtual disk error. You need to repair system files to fix this error.

How can I fix the virtual disk service error: the object is not found? 

1. Restart the VDS service

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Services Run Command
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open Services. 
  3. Go to Virtual Disk,  right-click, and select Restart. Virtual disk service restart

2. Check if the disk is online

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. 
  2. Type diskmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Disk Management. DISKMGMT RUN COMMAND
  3. Locate the disk in question and right-click it to select Offline. Offline -virtual disk service error: the object is not found
  4. Wait for a few seconds, and now turn it back to Online.  
  5. If the disk still gives you the error, right-click the disk and select the Initialize Disk option.Iniitalize DIsk

3. Run the CHKDSK command 

  1. Press Windows + X to open the context menu, and select Disk Management.Disk Management
  2. Go to the disk or volume, right-click it, and select Properties. Properties -virtual disk service error: the object is not found
  3. On the Properties window, go to the Tools tab.
  4. Under Error checking, select Check.Check
  5. Click Scan drive on the next window.Error checking
  6. Now the onscreen instructions to complete the process. 

4. Use the Command Prompt 

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. 
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: Diskpart
  3. Copy and paste the following command to scan newly added disks and press Enter: rescan
  4. Type the following command and press Enter: list disk
  5. To select a disk, type the following command and replace X with the disk number, and press Enter: Select disk XDiskpart virtual disk service error: the object is not found
  6. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter: clean create partition primary format fs=ntfs quick
  7. Once the format is complete, type the following command to assign the drive letter and replace X with the letter you want to assign : assign letter = X

5. Use a third-party tool

If nothing has worked for you, then using third-party partition software to fix this virtual disk service error is advised.

One of the most reliable and free partition software, AOMEI Partition Assistant, can help. To create a partition from either the current partition or unallocated disk space, follow these steps:

  1. Download and install AOMEI Partition Assistant.
  2. Right-click on the disk you want to manage and select Clone Partition. 
  3. Select partition parameters such as partition size, partition type, and file system type.
    AOMEI Partition - Allocate Free Space- D to C
  4. Click the OK button and format the newly created partition. 

So, these are steps that you can follow to fix the virtual disk service error: the object is not found. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below. 

Version.DLL: What is It & How to Fix It If It’s Missing

If you encounter the version.dll file missing error when launching a program, then this could be due to faulty software or a corrupt DLL file. In this guide, we will discuss some available methods to fix the issue after discussing the causes.

What is Version.DLL?

Version.dll file, also known as Version Checking and File Installation Libraries, is a part of the Microsoft Windows operating system. The DLL file is located in the C:\WINDOWS\system32\ folder and contains a set of driver functions and procedures.

It is a vital component that makes sure your Windows programs operate correctly. For example, if the version.dll file is missing or corrupted, it could stop the software from working. 

What causes the Version.DLL is missing error?

The Version.DLL missing error occurs if your dll file is damaged or deleted; some of the common reasons are: 

  • Malware infection – If your computer is infected with viruses or malware, it could infect your system files, including the DLL files. 
  • Third-party interference- If there is a conflict between third-party software and OS, it could corrupt the DLL file.
  • Hardware failure – If your hard drive fails, your system files could get damaged, hence the error.
  • Incorrect or interrupted installation – If the installation of software or updates is interrupted or not done correctly, it could cause an issue. 
  • Deleted accidentally – If you uninstalled a program that used the Version.DLL file, it may get deleted. Hence the error.

What can I do if Version.DLL is missing?

Before proceeding with any steps for uninstalling the program, go through the following preliminary checks:

  • Restart your computer.
  • Make sure your Windows is up to date.
  • Reinstall the app that is causing the issue.

1. Reregister the Version.DLL file

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.DOS COmmand Prompt -amdppm.sys
  2. Type the following command to register the DLL file again and hit Enter: regsvr32 VERSION.DLL
  3. Then, restart the computer and launch the affected app to ensure the issue is resolved. 

2. Run the System File Checker command

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Copy and paste the following command to run the system file checker and press Enter: sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD -version.dll
  3. Restart your PC once the process is complete.

Instead of applying this manual process, you can make use of a dedicated repair tool to solve missing or broken DLL files on your PC.

3. Run a malware scan

  1. Press the Windows key, type Windows Security, and click Open.Windows Security open
  2. Locate and click Virus & threat protection from the left pane. Now click Scan options from the right pane.V& T -version.dll
  3. Click the radio button next to Full scan and scroll down; click Scan now.Full scan
  4. The security tool will scan your computer to find malicious files. If found, it will prompt you to delete it. Delete the infected files and try to launch the program to see if the error persists.

4. Restore your PC to the last known good configuration

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.CP
  2. Select Large icons for View by and click Recovery.Recovery Control Panel- version.dll
  3. Under Advanced recovery tools, click Open System Restore.Open system restore
  4. On the System Restore window, click Choose a different restore point and click Next.Next Choose a different restore point
  5. Select the restore point and click Next.Click Next
  6. Now click Finish, and Windows will be restored to the chosen point.Finish Restore point

5. Manually reinstall the Version.DLL file

  1. Go to the DLL website.
  2. Select the version that is compatible with your Windows computer. Download version.dll file
  3. Download the zip file. Extract the file and save it to the Desktop or any accessible location.
  4. Navigate to this path C:\Windows\System32version
  5. Look for Version.dll; if present, rename it as Versionold.dll.
  6. Copy the newly downloaded file and paste it into System 32 folder.
  7. Open the Command prompt with admin rights using step 1 in method 1 or 2.
  8. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter: regsvr32 VERSION.DLLReregister version.dll
  9. Restart your computer.

So, these are the steps you must take to fix the version.dll file missing error. You may also encounter other errors, such as the ProductInfo.dll error, or rnd.dll file on your PC, so check out our expert articles to learn more. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments below.

Our latest guide covers what to do if setupapi.dll is not found, so feel free to visit it for more information.

Xbox Game Clips Not Uploading? Here’s What to Do

Sharing the best gaming moments through game clips is a great way to boast about your gaming skills.

However, if your Xbox game clips are not uploading, then it could be frustrating. This guide will discuss all the methods to troubleshoot the problem and upload them smoothly again. 

What causes the Xbox game clips not uploading issue?

There could be several reasons for the game clips not uploading on Xbox; some of the common ones are: 

  • Weak internet connection – If you have a slow or unstable internet connection, it could interrupt you from uploading game clips.
  • Insufficient space – If your Xbox doesn’t have enough storage space, you might face this problem. To fix it, you need to recover space on your Xbox. 
  • The server is offline – If Xbox servers are offline, you might be unable to upload game clips. Wait for the server to go online, then try again.
  • Xbox software outdated – If your Xbox software is obsolete, you might get various issues, including this one. To fix it, make sure you update your Xbox software. 

What can I do if Xbox game clips are not uploading? 

Before moving into troubleshooting steps, make sure you go through these preliminary checks: 

  • Check your internet connection.
  • Restart your Xbox

1. Check the Xbox Live status

  1. Go to the Xbox status page.
  2. Check all the services listed on the page. Expand them if you see any alerts.Xbox Status Live -xbox game clips not uploading
  3. If you see all of them are up and running, proceed to the next step. 

2. Check the storage space on Xbox 

  1. Turn on your Xbox using the Xbox button on the console. 
  2. Click the Profile & system from the left pane. Profile & system - Settings
  3. Select Settings. 
  4. Scroll down in the Settings menu, and click System. Settings - System - Storage -xbox game clips not uploading
  5. Click Storage and check for old or unwanted game clips to regain space on Xbox. 

3. Hard reset your Xbox 

  1. Press and hold the Xbox button on the console until the console shuts down.Console - Xbox button
  2. Remove the power cord from the console. Wait for 3-4 minutes, then plug it in.
  3. Press the Xbox button on the controller to restart your console and controller.Controller-Xbox-one-xbox game clips not uploading

4. Check for updates 

  1. Check your Xbox is connected to the internet and powered on. Now, press the Xbox button on your controller. 
  2. Select the Profile & system tab from the left pane.
  3. Go to Settings. Profile & system - Settings
  4. Scroll down the Settings menu, and select System. 
  5. Select Console info & updates. xbox-system-settings-console-info-updates
  6. If you see a console update available, select it to install it on your Xbox. 
  7. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process. 

5. Allow game captures

  1. Press the Xbox button on the controller to open the guide. 
  2. Choose Profile & system from the left pane. 
  3. Select Settings.
  4. From the Settings menu, select Preferences.
  5. Now select Capture & share or Game DVR & Streaming, depending upon your console. Preferences Capture & Share -xbox game clips not uploading
  6. Under Allow game captures, ensure either Captures by me or Captures by me or games is selected.

6. Contact Xbox support 

You must contact Xbox support for assistance if nothing has worked for you. Explain the issue and the steps you took to troubleshoot the problem to understand the scenario. They may be able to offer additional troubleshooting steps to fix the problem.

So, these are the methods you can follow to fix the Xbox game clips not uploading error. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section.

Icons Overlapping on Windows 11: How to Fix It in 8 Steps

You are not alone if you see the icons overlapping on your Windows 11 desktop. Unfortunately, this makes accessing the files and shortcuts difficult, which is frustrating. 

This guide will discuss all available solutions to fix the issue and ensure your desktop icons are organized.

What causes the icons to overlap on Windows 11? 

There could be several reasons for icons to overlap; some of the common ones are mentioned here: 

  • Screen resolution – If you have changed the screen resolution, it can cause the icons to overlap. You need to check the screen resolution to fix it.
  • Different resolutions on monitors – If you use multiple monitors with different resolutions, you can face this overlapping icon problem.
  • Third-party software – If any third-party software is interfering with the display of icons, you may face this issue. 

What can I do to fix the icons overlapping issue on Windows 11? 

Before moving to the troubleshooting steps, make sure you go through the preliminary checks:

1. Display Snap

  1. Press Windows + I  to open Settings. 
  2. Go to System, then click Multitasking.Multitasking Windows 11 -icons overlapping windows 11
  3. Locate and toggle Off the switch under Snap. Snap Windows

2. Change the icon size 

  1. Right-click on the empty space on the desktop and select View. 
  2. Select Large icons or Medium icons to increase the size of icons. Small icons -icons overlapping windows 11
  3. If the icons still overlap, select Small icons to reduce their size. 

3. Use the Registry Editor 

3.1 Change the desktop icon’s horizontal spacing

  1. Press the Windows + R to open the Run window.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type Regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor. 
  3. Click Yes on the UAC prompt. 
  4. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics​Edit String -icons overlapping windows 11
  5. Double-click IconSpacing to modify it. Type the value between -480 to -2730 and click OK. 

3.2 Change the desktop icon’s vertical spacing

  1. Press the Windows + R to open the Run console.
  2. Type Regedit and hit Enter OK to open Registry Editor. 
  3. Click Yes on the UAC prompt. 
  4. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics​
  5. Double-click on IconVerticalSpacing to modify, change the value between -480 to -2730, and click OK. ​VerticalSpacing
  6. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer. You might have to repeat the steps a few times until you see the desktop icons you like them. 

4. Restart the Windows Explorer

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. 
  2. Now go to the Processes tab, locate Windows Explorer, and right-click on it. Windows Explorer Restart -icons overlapping windows 11
  3. Select Restart.

5. Run the troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System, and click Troubleshoot. troubleshoot -icons overlapping windows 11
  3. Now click Other troubleshooters.troubleshooters
  4. Scroll the list and look for Search and Indexing troubleshooter. Search and INdexing
  5. Click Run and follow the onscreen prompts to complete the process.
  6. Once the process is complete, press the Windows key, type PowerShell and click Run as administrator. Powershell 2
  7. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter: Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.ShellExperienceHost | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"} 
  8. Restart your computer. 

6. Enable align icons to the grid 

  1. Right-click on the empty space on your desktop. Allow to grid -icons overlapping windows 11
  2. Select View and click Align icons to the grid to turn it on or off. 

7. Restore your PC using System Restore Point

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.rstrui
  2. Type rstrui.exe and press Enter to open the System Restore window.
  3. On the System Restore window, click the radio button beside Choose the different restore point and click Next. Next Choose a different restore point
  4. Choose the restore point and click Next. Choose a point
  5. Now on the next screen, click Finish. Your Windows will now restore to the preferred point. Finish Restore point -icons overlapping windows 11

8. Use a third-party tool

The Desktop Icon Spacing is a lightweight application that will help you with icon spacing on your Windows 11 computer. The best part about the Desktop Icon Spacing tool is that it is free and does not require any activation.

  1. Download the Desktop Icon Spacing tool.
  2. Launch the tool. You will see two sliders, i.e., Horizontal and Vertical.desktop-icon-spacing -icons overlapping windows 11
  3. To adjust, move the sliders for any of the two as per the icon spacing you need.
  4. Place a checkmark next to All data saved, and All other windows closed options.
  5. Select Apply. The File Explorer will restart automatically, and you can see the changes made.

So, these are the steps you need to follow to fix icons overlapping on Windows 11. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below. 

5 Ways to Permanently Stop Windows 11 Updates

Here’s how to permanently turn off Windows 11 updates.

Whether you have an older PC and want to avoid performance issues, or need to use your PC without an update getting stuck  or taking hours to finish, just follow the steps below.

How do I permanently stop Windows 11 updates?

Note icon NOTE
Preventing the automatic download of updates will not affect your ability to receive updates in the future. You can still manually download and install them on your own time.

1. Use Windows Services 

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc in the dialog box and hit Enter.run services.msc command
  3. Locate Windows Update, right-click on it, and select Properties.
  4. Navigate to the Startup type section, and in the drop-down menu, select Disabled.
  5. Click on Apply, then OK to save changes.

2. Use the Group Policy Editor 

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type gpedit.msc in the dialog box, then hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.GPEDiT.msc -Windows Remediation Service Failed to Start?
  3. Navigate to the following location: Administrative Templates/Windows components/ Windows Updates/Manage end user experience
  4. Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates on the right pane.
  5. Check the Disabled checkbox, then click Apply and OK to save the changes.

3. Use the Registry Editor 

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type regedit in the dialog box, then hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
  4. Right-click on Windows, select New Key and rename it as WindowsUpdate.WindowsUpdate
  5. On the newly created WindowsUpdate key, right-click on it again, select New Key and rename it as AU.AU
  6. Now, click on AU,  right-click on an empty space on the right-pane, select New DWORD (32-bit) Value and rename it as NoAutoUpdate.NoAutoUpdate
  7. Double-click on it, and under Value data, set it as 1. If you’d like to revert these changes, set the Value data to 0.

4. Use the Command Prompt 

  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 command and hit Enter: reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\Auto Update" /v AUOptions /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
  3. If you’d like to re-enable the update, Enter the following command: reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\Auto Update" /v AUOptions /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

5. Use bandwidth limits 

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Navigate to Network & internet and select Properties for your current connection.
  3. Toggle Metered connection on.setting connection as metered
  4. Also remember to switch off the option to download updates over metered connections.
  5. Still under Settings, select Windows Update, then click on Advanced options.Advanced options
  6. Toggle off the Download updates over metered connections option.Download over metered connections option

One of the requirements for automatic Windows updates is a stable and fast internet connection. If you’re using a metered connection, the updates will not be able to download successfully.

Do let us know of any additional thoughts on this topic in the comment section below.

Clear DNS Cache in Chrome //net-internals/#dns [PC & Mobile]

Chrome //net-internals/#dns is a streamlined process that organizes your DNS cache in Chrome so you can access webpages faster. For you to access the Internet, your DNS has to work without any problems. But what if you run into an error on your favorite Google Chrome browser? Interestingly, you might not be aware that Google Chrome does come with a DNS and proxy caching server built in.

Here’s how to clear DNS Cache in Google Chrome so you can solve errors on your PC and phone.

How to Clear DNS Cache on Google Chrome

Here’s how to do it for every device, whether its a Windows PC, Mac, Android or iOS device.

Clear the DNS cache on Windows PC or Mac from Browser

To access your DNS cache in Chrome browser, follow the next steps:

  1. Launch the Chrome browser
  2. In the address bar, type the below address and press Enter. chrome://net-internals/#dns
  3. On the page that opens, hit the Clear host cache button.flush dns cache for chrome
  4. This will clear the browser’s DNS cache. Do note that no prompt or message will be shown, but the click of the button actually clears the browser cache.
  5. Restart your browser.

DNS cache is not only stored by your Windows operating system but by your browser as well. Moreover, you might also have to flush the socket pools too, which you can do by following the steps below:

  1. Type the below in the address bar of Chrome and press Enter. chrome://net-internals/#sockets
  2. Hit the Flush socket pools button.
  3. Restart your browser.

Clear the DNS cache on Android and iOS

  1. Open Chrome on your Android/iOS device and then type the following line in the address bar: chrome://net-internals/#dnschrome internals dns
  2. When the DNS lookup page shows up, click on the Clear host cache button to clear the DNS cache on your mobile device.
  3. Now, head back to the home screen, long tap the Chrome icon, and open its App info menu.
  4. Finally, go to Storage usage and select Clear cache.
  5. If you’re using another browser, skip to the 3rd step in this solution to clear its cache.

How can I fix chrome://net-internals/#dns not working?

1. Release a new IP address

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for command prompt and open it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and hit Enter. ipconfig /releaseIpconfig release
  4. Then type the below to flush your DNS cache and press Enter. ipconfig /flushdnsflush dns
  5. Now, type ipconfig /renew to renew your IP address and press Enter. use ipconfig/release and ipconfig/renew in CMD

When you execute the above command, your PC will release your current IP address. Now, you can head back to Chrome and check if the chrome://net-internals/#dns is working or not.

2. Restart the DNS service

  1. Press the Win + R keys together to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type the below command and press Enter. services.mscservices windows 11 optional features empty
  3. Scroll down and locate DNS Client.
  4. Right-click on it and select Restart.
  5. In case the Restart option is greyed out, you need to open the command prompt.
  6. Type the following commands and press Enter. net stop dnscache net start dnscache

3. Reset Chrome flags

  1. Open Chrome.
  2. Type the below command in the address box and press Enter. chrome://flags
  3. At the top, click on the Reset all button.
  4. Restart your browser.

Often, when you turn on certain Chrome flags, they can mess up the in-browser settings and cause issues such as chrome://net-internal not working. In such a case, we would suggest you reset all flags in the browser and check if the problem is resolved or not.

4. Disable the VPN

VPNs can also cause the chrome://net-internal not working problem since they can override your network settings, including your DNS servers.

If disabling it fixes the issue, remember to do the same next time you want to clear the DNS cache. Alternatively, consider switching to a better VPN that won’t interfere.

Additionally, it may be that this is also caused by some Windows component. In that case, you will need to check how to solve the DNS not responding on your Windows PC, Mac, or mobile.

That is it from us in this guide. We hope that the solutions in this guide helped you understand how you can clear the DNS cache on your Google Chrome browser.

Intel WiFi 6 AX201 Not Working? How to Fix It in 7 steps

A high-speed and reliable WiFi connection is essential for work, education, and daily life. However, issues like Intel WiFi 6 AX201 driver not working can prevent you from accessing the internet or connecting to other devices. 

In this guide, we will discuss some expert-recommended fixes to resolve the issue right after discussing the potential causes. 

What causes the Intel WiFi 6 AX201 not working issue?

The Intel WiFi 6 AX201 not working issue can stem from various factors; some of the common ones are: 

  • Incompatible drivers – If the drivers for the Intel WiFi 6 AX201 are outdated or incompatible, the device may not work correctly, hence the error. 
  • Interference from other devices – If other devices in the area use the same frequency band as the Intel WiFi 6 AX201, it could cause conflict and prevent the device from working correctly. 
  • Software conflicts – If your computer has conflicting software programs or settings, you might face issues with Intel WiFi 6 AX201.
  • Network configuration issues – Sometimes, there may be issues with network configuration, including misconfigured SSID, & passwords, which can prevent the WiFi 6 AX201 Fi 6 AX201 from working correctly.
  • Hardware issues – If you have a faulty antenna, or damaged component, you might face the problem.

What can I do if Intel WiFi 6 AX201 not working?

Before moving to the advanced troubleshooting, you need to go through the preliminary checks: 

1. Repair the network drivers 

1.1 Repair network drivers manually 

  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 the Network adapters, right-click Intel(R) WiFi AX201 160MHz, and select Update driver.Update network driver -intel wifi 6 ax201 not working
  4. Click Search automatically for drivers.Search automatically Network drivers
  5. Follow onscreen instructions to complete the process.
  6. Restart the computer and check if the issue persists; proceed with the below-mentioned steps. 
  7. Right-click on the network adapter driver and select Uninstall driver.Uninstall Network driver
  8. Go to Action and click Scan for hardware changes. Action scan for hardware changes
  9. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.  

1.2 Use a third-party driver updater  

Keeping drivers up to date is essential to ensure your computer runs smoothly. However, updating the drivers manually can be time-consuming and tricky.

Therefore it is suggested to use third-party software to update drivers. These tools can download the latest drivers on your computer in a few clicks.

2. Tweak the wireless settings

  1. Press the Windows + R to open the Run window. 
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter. 
  3. Locate and double-click the Network adapters to expand. 
  4. Right-click the network driver and select Properties.Properties Network driver
  5. Go to the Advanced tab. Under Property, select Wireless Mode, and then for Value, select any option.Advanced tab network adapater -intel wifi 6 ax201 not working
  6. Now go to the Power Management tab, and remove the checkmark next to Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.Power Management tab 
  7. Click OK to save the changes. 

3. Use the Windows troubleshooter 

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System, and select Troubleshoot.Troubleshooter
  3. Now click Other Troubleshooters.Other Troubleshooters
  4. Go to the Internet connection and click Run. Run internet connection -intel wifi 6 ax201 not working
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process. 
  6. If the issue persists, go to Network Adapter and click Run to run the troubleshooter. Network adapter
  7. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the process.

4. Reset the network 

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet, and click Advanced network settings.Network & Internet intel wifi 6 ax201 not working
  3. Click Network Reset. Network reset 1
  4. Now click Reset now and follow the onscreen instructions. Reset now 1

5. Use the Command Prompt to reset network settings 

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. DOS COmmand Prompt
  2. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: netsh int ip reset netsh advfirewall reset netsh winsock reset ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew
  3. Now restart your computer to let the changes take effect. 

6. Run your computer in a clean boot environment 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. CLEAN BOOT 1 intel wifi 6 ax201 not working
  2. Type msconfig and click OK to open System Configuration. 
  3. Go to the Services tab, put a checkmark beside Hide all the Microsoft Services, and click Disable all.Clean BOOT 2
  4. Go to the Startup tab, and click Open Task Manager.CLEAN BOOT 3
  5. Select and right-click all the Enabled items one by one and choose Disable.Clean BOOT 4
  6. Close the Task Manager. Click Apply and OK to save the changes. CLEAN BOOT 5
  7. It will prompt you to restart your computer; click Restart to initiate. If your computer runs fine, you might have to check the freshly installed third-party software to eliminate the problem. msconfig restart prompt

7. Reset your PC

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. 
  2. Go to System, then click Recovery. System - Recovery Windows 11
  3. Now next to Reset this PC, click Reset PC.Reset now intel wifi 6 ax201 not working
  4. From the Choose an option, select Keep my files.Keep my files
  5. On the next screen, select Cloud download.Keep my files
  6. Now on the Additional settings screen, click Next.additonal settings
  7. On the Ready to reset this PC, click Reset and wait for the process to complete.Reset

So, these methods fix the Intel WiFi 6 AX201 not working issue and help you regain your internet connection and resume online activities without interruption. 

Please let us know in the comments section below if you have any questions or concerns about the topic. 

Windows Sandbox Failed to Start: How to Fix This Error

If you are looking for solutions to fix the Windows Sandbox failed to start error, this guide can help! We will cover all the available methods to resolve the issue right after discussing the causes. Let’s get started!  

What causes the Windows Sandbox failed to start error? 

There could be various reasons why the Windows Sandbox is not working; some of the common ones are mentioned here:

  • Services disabled – If the services related to the Sandbox are stopped, Windows Sandbox will not start. You must ensure the services and the dependencies responsible for the feature are running.
  • System files are corrupt or missing – If the system files are damaged, the Sandbox might fail to launch. To fix it, you must repair the system files via Command Prompt. 
  • System requirements don’t match – Your system must meet the minimum hardware requirements to run Sandbox. If not, you might face this error. 
  • Sandbox feature not enabled – If the Sandbox feature is not selected from the Windows Features list, Windows Sandbox might not start. 
  • Third-party antivirus software – Some security software may conflict with the working of the Sandbox. You may have to disable your antivirus temporarily. 
  • Outdated graphics driver – If the graphics driver is old or outdated, then you might face this issue. You need to install the latest drivers to fix the problem.

What can I do to fix the Windows Sandbox failed to start error? 

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

1. Disable and enable Windows Sandbox 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.optional features
  2. Type optional features and press Enter to launch Windows Features. 
  3. Scroll down and remove the checkmark next to Sandbox. sANDBOX DISABLED -windows sandbox failed to start
  4. Choose Restart now to let the changes take effect.rESTART NOW
  5. Enable the Windows Sandbox option and click Restart now. Optional Windows Features dlg

2. Start Sandbox services

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Services Run Command
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open Services.
  3. Locate and double-click Hyper-V Remote Desktop Virtualization Service to open Properties.
  4. For Startup type, select Automatic; for Services status, choose Start. Automatic Hyper V
  5. Now go to the Recovery tab; for the First failure, select Restart the service from the drop-down. 
  6. For the Second failure, select Restart the service.First Failure recovery -windows sandbox failed to start
  7. Click Apply and OK. 
  8. Make the same changes for Hyper-V Host, Hyper-V Time Synchronization, and Virtual Disk. 

3. Restart Hyper V and other programs 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. 
  2. Type optionalfeatures and press Enter to open Windows Features. 
  3. Locate and expand the Hyper-V option.Disable Hyper V = windows sandbox failed to start
  4. Remove the checkmark next to the Hyper-V Management Tools and Hyper-V Platform. 
  5. Click OK, close the program, and restart your computer. 

4. Use Windows troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open Windows Settings. 
  2. Go to System, then click Troubleshoot. System troubleshoot
  3. Click Other troubleshooters. Other Troubleshooters -windows sandbox failed to start
  4. Select hardware or device and click Run. 
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions and restart the computer. 

5. Repair system files 

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator. DOS COmmand Prompt
  2. Type the following command to repair system files and press Enter: sfc/scannow
  3. Then, copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthCMD DISM & SFC windows sandbox failed to start
  4. Close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer. 

6. Restore Windows to its previous version

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. CP
  2. Select Category as Large icons and click Recovery. Recovery Control Panel windows sandbox failed to start
  3. Now click Open System Restore.Open system restore
  4. You will now see the System Restore window; select Choose a different restore point and click Next. Next Choose a different restore point
  5. Choose the system restore point and click Next. Choose a point
  6. Now click Finish and wait for the process to complete.Finish Restore point

7. Update the device drivers 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. Device Manager RUN COMMAND
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Device Manager.
  3. Go to Display adapters and expand it.
  4. Select and right-click the graphics drivers to choose the Update driver. Graphics Driver update
  5. Click Search automatically for drivers.Update driver 2 windows sandbox failed to start
  6. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process. 

A better alternative to installing your drivers manually, in our view, is using a professional driver tool that can perform it automatically and without any risks of system damage.

Outbyte Driver Updater is the ideal solution for updating any driver and repairing or optimizing your Windows PC.

So, you need to take these steps to fix the Windows Sandbox failed to start error. If you have any questions or concerns about the error, you can mention them in the comments section below. 

0x80073cfc: How to Fix this Xbox Error Code

0x80073cfc is an error code that can appear whenever you try to play Xbox games on Windows, and it can mean one of two things. Either something is corrupt, or your PC refuses to install a game.

The reason why a computer will not install an Xbox game is that its security features detected some corruption. Fortunately, fixing this error is easy, and there are several ways to do it.

What causes this error code in the first place?

The culprits that cause Error Code 0x80073cfc are pretty common. They’re behind many problems on Windows 11, and it would behoove you to familiarize yourself with them.

  • Corrupt files are affecting the game – As alluded to earlier, this is the most common reason behind the error. You’ll need to run an SFC scan to clear it up.
  • Malware infects your computer – If you decide to install mods for your game, be careful what you download because it might have a virus. Get some antivirus software to clean it up.
  • Windows 11 is out of date – Make sure your computer is up to date by downloading all Windows Updates from Microsoft. Without it, you will experience performance problems.

How can I fix Error Code 0x80073cfc?

There are multiple ways you can fix this error code. It’s recommended that you first try out the quicker solutions as they fix the problem most of the time:

  • Reinstall the offending game. This is Microsoft’s suggestion, and the company has a set of instructions on this device on how to uninstall the Xbox app and device.
  • Try signing out and then signing back into your Windows Store account. There could be a small glitch causing the error. Doing this refreshes the app.
  • Also, try downloading the game from a different source. For example, if you installed a game from the Xbox app, try downloading it from the Microsoft Store.
  • Double-check if your Xbox Game Pass subscription has expired. Without this, you won’t be able to play games on your account if the license has been revoked.

1. Check the game’s system requirements

  1. Right-click the Windows logo in the bottom left-hand corner and select Run.
  2. In the Run command, enter dxdiag and click OK.
  3. Under the System tab, you will see the specifications of your computer’s hardware.
  4. Go to your game’s developer page or an official source detailing the system requirements.

This is an important first step that you must take. You need to know whether or not your computer can even run the game in the first place. If not, the error code will continue to appear.

2. Run Windows Store troubleshooter

  1. Launch the Settings menu. Stay on the System section.
  2. Scroll down, then click the Troubleshoot tab.
  3. Select Other troubleshooters in this new page.
  4. Locate Windows Store Apps and click the Run button next to it.
  5. Wait for the troubleshooter to finish up. Follow any instructions Windows suggests, like resetting apps.
  6. Click Next, and Windows will ask you to restart your computer to finish the process.

3. Install Xbox Identity Provider and Gaming Services

  1. Click the Get in Store app button to get the Xbox Identity Provider software from Microsoft’s website.
  2. After the Microsoft Store launches, install the software.
  3. Now do the same thing to the Gaming Services software.

Xbox Identitiy Provide is software that enables games to connect to the internet so they can work properly. Gaming Services is a bit of a mystery as Microsoft hasn’t said exactly what it does.

At the very least, we know it addresses PC game connectivity problems; possibly regarding the cloud.

4. Double-check your time zone

  1. Launch the Settings menu and go to the Time & language section.
  2. Click Date & time.
  3. Make your time zone is set to where you’re located. In this example, Pacific Time is correct.
  4. Scroll down and select Language & region.
  5. Ensure the selected country or region is set to the correct one.

5. Repair the Xbox app

  1. Launch the Settings menu once more. Go to the Apps section.
  2. Click Installed Apps.
  3. Scroll down and locate the Xbox app. Click the three dots and choose Advanced options.
  4. Scroll down once more. Select the Repair button to fix the app.

6. Clear out app cache

  1. In the Windows Search bar, enter WSRESET and click the first entry that you see.
  2. Command Prompt will immediately launch, clear out the Microsoft Store cache, and open Microsoft Store.
  3. Additionally, you can do something similar through Settings. First, launch the Settings menu.
  4. Like the previous solution, go to the Apps section, locate the Xbox app, and select Advanced options.
  5. This time, however, select Reset to clear out the app cache.

7. Uninstall via PowerShell

  1. Bring up Windows PowerShell on the search bar and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type in the following command and hit Enter on your keyboard: get-appxpackage *xboxapp* | remove-appxpackage
  3. If you want to remove the Xbox app for all users, enter the following command: get-appxpackage -AllUsers *xboxapp* | remove-appxpackage

What can I do if the Xbox app is not detecting Gaming Services?

Installing Gaming Services can fix the error code, but sometimes the Xbox app will not detect the software for whatever reason. This may be because of a bad internet connection or an outdated Windows 11.

To fix this, it’s recommended that you either reset the Xbox app or reinstall the Gaming Services software. We also recommend you learn how to fix Error Code c101a007.

This occurs whenever you try to use an unauthorized payment method. If this happens to you, it’s recommended that you update your billing information and contact the Xbox Support Team quickly.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about other Windows 11 apps or guides you’d like to see.

Blurry Screen on Windows 11: How to Fix It in 7 Steps

Is your Windows 11 screen looking out of focus and blurry lately? It could be due to wrong resolution settings or outdated graphics drivers. 

In this guide, we will cover the easy methods to fix the blurry screen issue on Windows 11 right after discussing the causes. Let’s start! 

What causes the blurry screen issue on Windows 11? 

There could be many reasons for this issue; some of the common ones are mentioned here: 

  • Outdated graphics drivers – Obsolete or incorrect graphics drivers can cause issues with the display, resulting in pixelated images.
  • Incorrect display settings – If the display settings on your computer are misconfigured, it could cause this issue. 
  • Incompatible apps – Some apps are not optimized for Windows yet, which could cause issues with the display, including this one.
  • Hardware issues – If the graphics card or another component is damaged or not working correctly, it could cause this issue. 
  • High-DPI scaling – High-DPI scaling, if misconfigured, can cause issues with the display. Hence you see the blurry screen.

What can I do to fix the blurry screen issue on Windows 11? 

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

  • Restart Your System
  • Check all the apps installed are compatible with Windows 11. 
  • Look for hardware damage.
  • Make sure your Windows is up to date. 

1. Change display resolution and scaling 

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System, then click Display.Display blurry screen windows 11
  3. Click Display Resolution and set it to recommended settings by Windows.Display Resolution
  4. Go to Scale, and set it to a higher scaling percentage. Then, adjust it according to what you see on the screen. Scale

2. Enable the ClearType text option

  1. Press the Windows key, and type ClearType. Cleartype blurry screen windows 11
  2. Click Adjust ClearType text option and click Open.
  3. Place a checkmark next to Turn on ClearType and click Next. Cleartype 1
  4. Choose the text sample which looks best on your display and click Next. Next Cleartype blurry screen windows 11
  5. Repeat the process for all text samples. 
  6. Click the Finish button to apply the changes.Finish Cleartype

3. Set to high performance  

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings. 
  2. Go to System, then click Display. blurry screen windows 11
  3. Click Graphics.Graphics
  4. Go to the app for which you want to change the graphics settings and click the Options button. High Performance
  5. Select High performance and click the Save button.
  6. Now run the app to check if the issue persists. 

 4. Change the appearance settings

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. sysdm.cpl 2
  2. Type sysdm.cpl and click OK to open System Properties. 
  3. Go to the Performance section and click the Settings button. Advanced blurry screen windows 11
  4. Click the radio button next to Adjust for best appearance and click Apply, then OK to exit the app.Apply and OK adjust

5. Modify app DPI Settings

  1. Press Windows + E to open Windows Explorer. Go to C:\Program Files (x86)
  2. Navigate to the problematic app executable file location. 
  3. Click the program icon and press Alt + Enter to open Properties. cHANGE dpi SETTINGS blurry screen windows 11
  4. Go to the Compatibility tab and click Change high DPI settings button.
  5. Place a checkmark next to the Use this setting to fix scaling problems for this problem instead of the one in Settings option.DPI settings
  6. Place a checkmark next to Override high DPI scaling behavior and click OK.
  7. Click Apply and OK to close the window. 

6. Update your graphics 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 Display Adapters, and click it to expand. Next, select the graphics driver and click Update driver.Graphics Driver update blurry screen windows 11
  4. Click Search automatically for drivers. Update driver 2
  5. Now follow the onscreen instructions to download and install drivers. 
  6. Restart your computer. 

A valid cause of Windows 11 blurry desktop can also be outdated or broken graphics drivers, so you might need to update them securely.

For that purpose, you can use dedicated driver software capable of detecting and updating all drivers safely and on short notice.

7. Uninstall the latest Windows update 

  1. Open the Run dialog box, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK to open Programs and Features. APPWIZ RUN COMMAND
  2. Locate the View installed updates option and click it. View installed features
  3. Look for the latest installed Windows update and select it
  4. Click the Uninstall button and follow the onscreen instructions to remove the update from your computer. Uninstall

So, these are methods that you can follow to fix the blurry screen issue on Windows 11. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below. 

Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%: How to Easily Fix It? 

Battle.net update stuck at 0% while trying to update a game, or the app itself is a common issue reported by many gamers. In this guide, we will discuss all the available methods and the causes of the issue. 

What causes the Battle.net update to get stuck at 0% issue? 

Various reasons could cause this issue; some of the common ones are: 

  • Weak internet connection – Slow internet could be the reason for your update getting stuck. Check your internet connection. 
  • Third-party interference – The security program on your computer might conflict with the update files, causing the issue. 
  • Using a standard account – If you use a standard user account instead of one with administrator rights, you may face this issue. 
  • The server is under maintenance – To install an update, the files must be downloaded from the server; if the server is under maintenance, you might encounter the problem. 
  • Unnecessary apps consuming the internet – If you have unwanted apps running in the background using high bandwidth, this issue can occur. 
  • Incorrect network settings – If the network settings are not configured properly, it could cause slow internet, hence the issue. 

How can I fix the Battle.net update stuck at 0% issue? 

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

1. Delete the app’s existing files 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.Appdata run command -Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  2. Type AppData and click OK to open the AppData folder. 
  3. Go to the Local folder.
  4. Right-click Blizzard Entertainment and click Delete. Blizzard Entertainment folder delete
  5. Now navigate to this path C:\Program Files (x86)
  6. Right-click the Battle.net folder and select Delete. Battlenet folder remove
  7. Download the Battle.net file, launch the installer, and follow the onscreen instructions to install the app. 

2. Power cycle your router 

  1. Turn off your router and wait until the lights are off. hand-turns-on-internet-router-Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  2. Remove the power cords from the socket.
  3. Please 2-3 minutes and then plug in the power cord again.
  4. Turn on the router and wait till the lights are on. 
  5. Now reinstall Battle.net to see if the issue persists. 

3. Allow the app through the firewall

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. CP
  2. Select View by as Category and click System and Security. System and security
  3. Click Windows Defender Firewall. Windows Defender Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  4. Locate and click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall. Allow an app
  5. Click Change Settings, then locate Battle.net under Allowed apps and features.Change settings1
  6. If you are not able to find it, click Allow another app. Allow another app
  7. Click Browse. Add
  8. Select the app and click Open.
  9. Now click Add. ADD
  10. Place a checkmark on the Public and Private options for Battle.net.
  11. Click OK. Now try to install the update or app to check if the issue is fixed. OK

4. Disable antivirus temporarily 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Windows Security, and click Open. Windows Security open
  2. Click Virus & threat protection and then click Manage settings. Manage settings Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  3. Now toggle off the switch for Real-time protection.Real time protection off2

5. Update graphics drivers 

  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 Display adapters and expand it.
  4. Right-click the driver and select the Update driver.Graphics Driver update Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  5. Click the Search automatically for the drivers option. Update driver 2
  6. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process. 

Do you prefer an alternative way to update drivers in less time and entirely safely? There is a go-to software to perform this task automatically in a short time.

6. Make changes to network settings 

6.1 Reset network 

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings. 
  2. Go to Network & Internet and click Advanced network settings.Network -Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  3. Scroll and locate Network Reset. Network Reset
  4. Click Reset Now.  Network Reset 1
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

6.2 Use Google DNS 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. 
  2. Select Category from the drop-down for View by and click Network & Internet.Network CP -Battle.net Update Stuck at 0%
  3. Click Network and Sharing Center.Network and Sharing Center
  4. Now, click on the active connection, and you will be directed to the Status page. Active connection
  5. Click Properties. Properties Ethernet
  6. Double-click the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) to open Properties. IPv4
  7. Select the Use the following DNS server addresses option; for the Preferred DNS server, type 8.8.8.8, and the Alternate DNS server, 8.8.4.4DNS server
  8. Click OK. 

So, these are steps that you need to follow to fix the Battle.net update stuck at 0%. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below. 

Install ChatGPT App Locally: Why & How to Do It

ChatGPT is designed to provide fast responses to your queries. You can access ChatGPT online; however, if you prefer to install the app, this guide can help.

We will discuss the step-by-step method to install the ChatGPT app locally so that you can use it to get faster responses with increased privacy.

Why install the ChatGPT app locally?

There are several benefits of installing the AI model on your computer, some of which are mentioned here:

  • Fast and responsive – You can directly run it on your device. This means the app will use the device’s processor and memory, which will work more efficiently than when working on the remote server.
  • Increased privacy and security – Using the app locally will enhance the privacy and security of your private data. The data will no longer be transferred from your device to a remote server.
  • Customizable – Installing the app locally will allow you to customize the app as per your preferences and requirements. You can change the user interface, app functions, and more.
  • No need to face downtime – If the app is locally installed, you won’t have to sign in again or wait for the server to respond if it is busy. Hence no downtime.

How can I install the ChatGPT app locally?

Before engaging in steps to install the ChatGPT app locally, you should consider performing the following checks:

  • First, install the Node.js extension on VS code.
  • Then, get Git extension on VS code.

1. Create a folder & open it in Visual Studio Code

  1. Right-click on the empty space on the desktop, select New, then Folder.New folder create step 1
  2. Rename the folder as Open_AI_ChatGPT app.
  3. Press the Windows key, type Visual Studio Code, and click Open.Visual Studio code open install chatgpt app locally
  4. Go to the File menu, and select Open Folder.New folder open
  5. Choose the folder and click Select Folder.
  6. Next, go to the View menu and select Terminal.View Terminal

2. Check if Node.js is installed

  1. Type the following code to check if you have node.js installed and press Enter: node -v
  2. If it comes with an error, proceed with the next step.
  3. Go to the Node.js website and download Node.jsDownload NOde js
  4. Double-click to open the installer file. Click Next.Install screen 1 install chatgpt app locally
  5. Now accept all the terms and conditions and click Next.Install screen 2
  6. Click Next on all the following windows, then click Install to initiate the installation.Install final
  7. Now restart Visual Studio Code.
  8. Once done, return to the terminal, type the following code to create a Vanilla JavaScript repository, and press Enter: npm create vite@latest client --template vanilla
  9. Next, type Y and press Enter.NPM Vanilla
  10. Select Vanilla as the framework when prompted.
  11. Select JavaScript as a variant when asked. You will see many files and folders created under the Open_AI_ChatGPT app folder.

3. Install dependencies

  1. Type the following command to enter the client directory and press Enter: cd .\client\
  2. Next, copy and paste the following command and press Enter: npm installnpm install chatgpt app locally
  3. Go to this link and download the zipped folder named assets.
  4. Now copy the extracted assets folder to the client folder.Assets copied and moved
  5. Next, remove the vite.svg and counter.js files.Delete files
  6. Finally, move the favicon file from the assets folder to the public folder.

4. Write code in style.css

  1. Copy and paste the below-mentioned code as it is in the style.css folder: stylecss
    @import url("https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:wght@100;300;400;500;700;800;900&display=swap");
    * { 
     margin: 0;
     padding: 0;
     box-sizing: border-box;
     font-family: "Alegreya Sans", sans-serif;
    }
    body { 
      background: #343541;
    }
    #app {
      width: 100vw;
      height: 100vh;
      background: #343541;
      display: flex;
      flex-direction: column;
      align-items: center;
      justify-content: space-between;
    }
    #chat_container {
      flex: 1;
      width: 100%;
      height: 100%;
      overflow-y: scroll;
      display: flex;
      flex-direction: column;
      gap: 10px;
      -ms-overflow-style: none;
      scrollbar-width: none;
      padding-bottom: 20px;
      scroll-behavior: smooth;
    }
    /* hides scrollbar */
    #chat_container::-webkit-scrollbar {
      display: none;
    }
    .wrapper {
      width: 100%;
      padding: 15px;
    }
    .ai {
      background: #40414F;
    }
    .chat {
      width: 100%;
      max-width: 1280px;
      margin: 0 auto;
     display: flex;
      flex-direction: row;
      align-items: flex-start;
      gap: 10px;
    }
    .profile {
      width: 36px;
      height: 36px;
      border-radius: 5px;
      background: #5436DA;
      display: flex;
      justify-content: center;
      align-items: center;
    }
    .ai .profile {
      background: #10a37f;
    }
    .profile img {
      width: 60%;
      height: 60%;
      object-fit: contain;
    }
    .message {
      flex: 1;
      color: #dcdcdc;
      font-size: 20px;
      max-width: 100%;
      overflow-x: scroll;
      /*
       * white space refers to any spaces, tabs, or newline characters that are used to format the CSS code   
    * specifies how white space within an element should be handled. It is similar to the "pre" value, which tells the browser to treat all white space as significant and to preserve it exactly as it appears in the source code.
     * The pre-wrap value allows the browser to wrap long lines of text onto multiple lines if necessary.
       * The default value for the white-space property in CSS is "normal". This tells the browser to collapse multiple white space characters into a single space, and to wrap text onto multiple lines as needed to fit within its container.
      */
      white-space: pre-wrap;
      -ms-overflow-style: none;
      scrollbar-width: none;}
    /* hides scrollbar */
    .message::-webkit-scrollbar {
      display: none;
    }
    form {
      width: 100%;
      max-width: 1280px;
      margin: 0 auto;
      padding: 10px;
      background: #40414F;
      display: flex;
      flex-direction: row;
      gap: 10px;
    }
    textarea {
      width: 100%;
      color: #fff;
      font-size: 18px;
      padding: 10px;
      background: transparent;
      border-radius: 5px;
      border: none;
      outline: none;
    }
    button {
      outline: 0;
      border: 0;  cursor: pointer;
      background: transparent;
    }
    form img {
      width: 30px;
      height: 30px;
    }

5. Write code in Index.html

  1. Type the following code in the index.html file: index html install chatgpt app locally
    <!DOCTYPE html>
    <html lang="en">
      <head>
        <meta charset="UTF-8" />
        <link rel="icon" type="image/svg+xml" href="favicon.ico" />
        <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" />
        <title>Codex - Your AI</title>
        <link rel="stylesheet" href="style.css" />
      </head>
      <body>
        <div id="app">
          <div id="chat_container"></div>
          <form>
            <textarea name="prompt" rows="1" cols="1" placeholder="Ask codex..."></textarea>
            <button type="submit"><img src="assets/send.svg" alt="send" />
          </form>
        </div>
        <script type="module" src="script.js"></script>
      </body>
    </html>
  2. Press Ctrl + S to save the script.
  3. Go to the left pane on Visual Studio Code and rename main.js to script.js.

6. Run commands on the Terminal

  1. Go to the terminal and press Ctrl + C to see where you would write commands. You should be in the client folder. If not, type the following command and press Enter: cd client
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: npm run devnpm dev
  3. You will get a web address to see how it looks so far. If you get the error mentioned in the screenshot, then move forward.error with counterjs missing file

7. Write code in the script.js file

  1. Remove the content present in the script.js file, and copy and paste the following code: scriptjs file
    import bot from './assets/bot.svg'
    import user from './assets/user.svg'
    const form = document.querySelector('form');
    const chatContainer = document.querySelector('#chat_container');
    let loadInterval;
    function loader(element) {
        element.textContent = '';
        loadInterval = setInterval(() => {
            // Update the text content of the loading indicator
            element.textContent += '.';
            // If the loading indicator has reached three dots, reset it
            if (element.textContent === '....') {
                element.textContent = '';
            }
        }, 300)
    }
    function typeText(element, text) {
        let index = 0;
        let interval = setInterval(() => {
            if (index < text.length) {
                element.innerHTML += text.charAt(index);
                index++;
            } else {
                clearInterval(interval);
            }
        }, 20)
    }
    function generateUniqueId() {
        const timestamp = Date.now();
        const randomNumber = Math.random();
        const hexadecimalString = randomNumber.toString(16);
        return `id-${timestamp}-${hexadecimalString}`;
    }
    function chatStripe(isAi, value, uniqueId) {
        return (
            `
            <div class="wrapper ${isAi && 'ai'}">
                <div class="chat">
                    <div class="profile">
                        <img
                          src=${isAi ? bot : user}
                          alt="${isAi ? 'bot' : 'user'}"
                        />
                    </div>
                    <div class="message" id=${uniqueId}>${value}</div>
                </div>
            </div>
        `
        )
    }
    const handleSubmit = async (e) => {
        e.preventDefault();
        const data = new FormData(form);
    // user's chatstripe
        chatContainer.innerHTML += chatStripe(false, data.get('prompt'));
    // to clear the textarea input
        form.reset();
    // bot's chatstripe
        const uniqueId = generateUniqueId();
        chatContainer.innerHTML += chatStripe(true, " ", uniqueId);
    // to focus scroll to the bottom
        chatContainer.scrollTop = chatContainer.scrollHeight;
    // specific message div
        const messageDiv = document.getElementById(uniqueId);
    // messageDiv.innerHTML = "..."
        loader(messageDiv);
    const response = await fetch('https://localhost:8001/', {
            method: 'POST',
            headers: {
                'Content-Type': 'application/json'
            },
    body: JSON.stringify({
                prompt: data.get('prompt')
            })
        })
    clearInterval(loadInterval);
        messageDiv.innerHTML = '';
        if (response.ok) {
            const data = await response.json();
            const parsedData = data.bot.trim();
    typeText(messageDiv, parsedData);
      } else {
            const err = await response.text();
    messageDiv.innerHTML = "Something went wrong";
            alert(err);
        }
    }
    form.addEventListener('submit', handleSubmit);
    form.addEventListener('keyup', (e) => {
        if (e.keyCode === 13) {
            handleSubmit(e);
        }
    })
  2. Then, press Ctrl + S to save the script.

8. Create a new folder inside the Open_AI_ChatGPT app folder and install modules

  1. Create a folder in the Open_AI_ChatGPT app folder and name it Server.
  2. Open Terminal and press Crtl + C to stop the running app.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter to come out of the Client folder: cd ..
  4. Copy and paste the following command to enter the Server directory and press Enter: cd server
  5. Type the following command and press Enter to generate a package.json file in the server folder: npm init -yNODE JS
  6. To install dependencies, type the following command and press Enter. This will create a new file named package-lock.json: npm install cors dotenv express nodemon openai

9. Generate the API key and mention it in .env

  1. Go to the Open API website and log in.
  2. Now click Personal and select View API keys.
  3. Click Create new secret key and copy the key.API keys
  4. In the server folder, create a new file and name it .env.
  5. In the .env file, type the following code after replacing The API Key with the key you copied from the Open API website and press Enter: OPENAI_API_KEY="The API Key"secret key install chatgpt locally

10. Create new file server.js and write a script

  1. Create a new file in the server folder and rename it server.js.
  2. Copy and paste the following script inside this file and press Ctrl+S to save the file: serverjs 1

import express from 'express';
import * as dotenv from 'dotenv';
import cors from 'cors';
import { Configuration, OpenAIApi } from 'openai';
dotenv.config();
const configuration = new Configuration({
  apiKey: process.env.OPENAI_API_KEY,
});
const openai = new OpenAIApi(configuration);
const app = express();
app.use(cors());
app.use(express.json());
app.get('/', async (req, res) => {
  res.status(200).send({
    message: 'Hello from GPT!',
  })
});
app.post('/', async (req, res) => {
  try {
    const prompt = req.body.prompt;
    const response = await openai.createCompletion({
      model: "text-davinci-003",
      prompt: `${prompt}`,
      temperature: 0, // Higher values means the model will take more risks.
max_tokens: 3000, // The maximum number of tokens to generate in the completion. Most models have a context length of 2048 tokens (except for the newest models, which support 4096).
      top_p: 1, // alternative to sampling with temperature, called nucleus sampling
      frequency_penalty: 0.5, // Number between -2.0 and 2.0. Positive values penalize new tokens based on their existing frequency in the text so far, decreasing the model's likelihood to repeat the same line verbatim.
      presence_penalty: 0, // Number between -2.0 and 2.0. Positive values penalize new tokens based on whether they appear in the text so far, increasing the model's likelihood to talk about new topics.
    });
    res.status(200).send({
      bot: response.data.choices[0].text
    });
  } catch (error) {
    console.log(error);
    res.status(500).send(error || 'Something went wrong');
  }
});
app.listen(5000, () => console.log('AI server started on https://localhost:8001'));

11. Write code in the package.json

  1. Copy and paste the following code and press Ctrl + S to save: packagejson -install chatgpt app locally

{
"name": "server",
"version": "1.0.0",
"description": "",
"type": "module",
"scripts":{
"server": "nodemon server"
},
"keywords": [],
"author": "",
"license": "ISC",
"dependencies": {
"cors": "^2.8.5",
"dotenv": "^16.0.3",
"express": "^4.18.2",
"nodemon": "^2.0.20",
"openai": "^3.1.0"
}
}

12. Test the code

  1. Now, click the Terminal menu on Visual Studio Code and select Spilt Terminal.Split terminal
  2. You will have two terminals; let’s call them Terminal Server and Terminal Client.
  3. On Terminal Server, press Ctrl + C. Type the following command to enter the server directory, and press Enter: cd server
  4. Next, copy and paste the following command and press Enter to run the server: npm run server
  5. Click on the link presented, and you will see the message Hello from GPT on the page
  6. Now on Terminal Client, press Ctrl + C. Type the following command to enter the client directory, and press Enter: cd client
  7. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter to run the client: npm run devTerminal screenshot
  8. Next, click on the link and type Hello, how are you doing; you can see the bot is looking for an answer.

13. Install the Git Bash app and configure it with your GitHub account

  1. You can skip this step if you already have it configured. Download the Git Bash app.
  2. Log in to your GitHub account.
  3. At the time of installation, please save it to the Open_AI_ChatGPT folder.
  4. Next, press the Windows key, type edit the system environment variables, and click Open.edit the system environment variables
  5. Double-click on the Path, and click Edit.Edit
  6. Add the path of the git file here, then click OK and OK.Environment variable
  7. Launch Git Bash, type the following command after replacing the username with your GitHub account username, and press Enter: git config --global user.name "username"
  8. Copy and paste the following command after replacing the email address with your email address and press Enter: git config --global user.email "email address"
  9. Go to the GitHub account, click the drop-down arrow, and select Settings. Now go to Developer settings.Developer settings
  10. Expand Personal access tokens, and select Fine-grained tokens. Click Generate new token.Generate token
  11. Rename it and select the validity. Then, copy the token and save it on a notepad.
  12. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter: git config --global credential.helper wincred git credential-manager-core configureConfigure git 1 install chatgpt app locally
  13. Follow the prompts to configure it and paste the token generated when prompted for your password.
  14. Close the Git Bash app.

14. Create a repository, and publish code

14.1 Create a repository

  1. Log in to your GitHub account.
  2. Locate the drop-down arrow next to your profile picture and select Your repositories.Repository select
  3. Click New.Repository
  4. Type the Repository Name, select Public, and click Create repository.Create new
  5. Go to VS code, press Ctrl + C, and ensure you are in the Open_AI_ChatGPT app or the root folder. If not, type the following code and press Enter: cd
  6. Then, in the server folder, add a new file and name it .gitignore.gitignore file
  7. In the .gitignore file, type the following code to make sure .env and node_modules are not pushed in GitHub:
    .env
    node_modules

14.2 Publish your code on the repository

  1. Go to VS code, copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: git init git commit -m "first commit" git branch -M main
  2. Type the following command after replacing the https://github.com/SrishtiSisodia/CHAT-BOT-APP with your repository address mentioned on GitHub:
    git remote add origin https://github.com/SrishtiSisodia/CHAT-BOT-APP
  3. Now to push the code, type the following command and press Enter: git push -u origin main
  4. Reload your GitHub page, and your code will be uploaded there.Repository with files
  5. On VS code, press Ctrl + C on both Terminal Server and Terminal Client to stop them from running.

15. Deploy the server

  1. Go to render the website and sign up using GitHub.
  2. You will see the Dashboard, click New, then select Web Services.Web service
  3. Locate Connect a new repository, enter the URL of your storage under the Public Git repository, and click Connect.
  4. On the next page, add Name, select the Region, select Branch as main, select Root Directory as a server, choose Environment as Node, and type Start Command - run npm server
  5. Click Free and click Create Web Service.Render
  6. The server will be deployed; please wait until the Deployment status is Live.
  7. Go to Environment; for Key, type OpenAI_API_Key, and for value, type the secret API key you generated in step 9.Environment
  8. You will now have a web address; add it to the script.js file. Then, on VS code, go to the script.js file and replace the web address in the code mentioned below with the new web address from the rendered website:
    const response = await fetch('https://localhost:8001/' const response = await fetch('https://chatgptapp-lswi.onrender.com/'web address -install chatgpt app locally
  9. On the VS code Terminal, type the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: git add. git commit -m 'update the server URL' git push

16. Deploy the front end

  1. Go to the Vercel website.
  2. Click Start Deploying.start deploying
  3. Under Import Git Repository, click Continue with GitHub.continue
  4. Type your GitHub username and select the repository name and click Import.Chatbot app import
  5. Under Configure Project, select a name.
  6. Change the root directory from / to client, click Continue and Deploy.Configure project
  7. Go back to your dashboard and click Visit.visit
  8. You can now see the application.app

So, these are the detailed steps to install the ChatGPT app locally on your device. Stuck somewhere? Please mention your questions or concerns in the comments section below.

The Specified Disk is Not Convertible: 2 Ways to Fix

Virtual disk service error: the specified disk is not convertible comes up when you try to convert an MBR (Master Boot Record) to GPT (GUID Partition Table) using the Windows Disk Management tool.

In this guide, we will discuss some of the easiest methods to fix the issue right after talking about the causes of the same. Let’s start!

What causes the Virtual Disk Service error: The specified disk is not convertible?

There could be various reasons for this disk error; some of the common ones are:

  • Incompatible disk type – The disk you want to convert might not be compatible with the type of conversion you are attempting. Hence you get this error.
  • Disk is currently in use – If your system or any application uses the disk you want to convert, the conversion process may fail. So, close all applications using the disk before starting the process.
  • Insufficient permissions – A local user account with standard access can’t perform such disk conversion processes. If you are not using an account with admin rights, you might get this error.
  • Software interference– Check for issues on the Windows Disk Management tool or other software running on the computer, as that could cause disk errors.
  • Hardware issues – If the disk or the controller that manages the disk is defective, you may encounter such errors while converting the disk.

How can I fix the Virtual Disk Service error: The specified disk is not convertible?

Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider backing up your data to secure your important files. Also, follow these steps in the same manner mentioned to fix the error.

1. Use the Disk Management tool & Command Prompt

1.1 Check if the BIOS Mode is UEFI

  1. Press the Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.System Info
  2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter to open System Information app.
  3. Go to BIOS Mode and check if it is UEFI. If it is, then skip to the next step. If it is Legacy, you won’t be able to convert your disk to GPT. To do so, let’s switch the BIOS Mode to UEFI.UEFI
  4. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.DOS COmmand Prompt
  5. Type the following command and press Enter: mbr2gpt.exe /convert /allowfullOSMBR TO GPT -virtual disk service error the specified disk is not convertible
  6. Restart your computer and press F2, F10, or any designated key as per your device to enter BIOS.
  7. Go to the Boot menu and change the Boot Mode to UEFI.install-windows-11-on-legacy-bios-1200x900
  8. Go to the Exit tab and click Save and exit to restart your computer.

1.2 Delete Volume

  1. Press the Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.DISKMGMT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type diskmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Disk Management.
  3. Go to the disk you want to convert, right-click it and select Delete Volume. This will delete all the data on your disk, so backup or move your data from the disk before performing this step. Now the disk will be unallocated.Delete Volume -virtual disk service error the specified disk is not convertible

1.3 Convert to GPT

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: diskpart
  3. Next, copy and paste the following command and press Enter: list disk Select disk
  4. Type the following command to select the disk you want to change and replace X with the number and press Enter: select disk X convert GPT
  5. Close the Command Prompt.

1.4 Create a simple volume

  1. Go to the Disk Management tool again.
  2. Right-click on the same disk and select New Simple Volume.Simple VOLUME SELECT -virtual disk service error the specified disk is not convertible
  3. On the New Simple Volume wizard, click Next.Next
  4. Select the disk size next to Simple volume in MB and click Next.Next2
  5. For Assign the drive letter, select the drive letter from the dropdown and click Next.assign letter
  6. Change the Volume Label and click Next. New VOlume
  7. Click Finish to close the window. The drive will format now, don’t close the window until it is done.Finish

2. Use a third-party tool

If you don’t want to go through the tedious steps or delete the data on volume, you can use AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional to convert MBR to GPT or GPT to MBR. Follow the below-mentioned steps to fix this error:

  1. Download and install AOMEI Partition Assistant
  2. Launch the tool, select the disk, and right-click on it to choose Convert to GPT Disk.
  3. Click Apply.
  4. Restart your computer, and before your Windows loads, press F2, F10, or the designated key by the device manufacturer to enter BIOS.
  5. Go to the Boot menu and change the Boot Mode to UEFI.install-windows-11-on-legacy-bios-1200x900

So, these are steps that you need to follow virtual disk service error: the specified disk is not convertible. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below.

Event ID 7031: What is It & How to Easily Solve It?

Event ID 7031 Print Spooler terminated unexpectedly occurs when there is a problem with Print Spooler service. This guide will discuss all available fixes to resolve the issue after talking about the causes. 

What is Event ID 7031? 

Event ID 7031 is a system event in Windows that shows that the service was terminated unexpectedly. You can check the Event ID message description to understand what caused it. The message could vary depending on the service that was affected.

For example, if the description says the Print Spooler service terminated unexpectedly, the issue has occurred because Windows cannot communicate with the printer. Also, there could be a problem with the Printer Spooler service, which manages print jobs on Windows.

Why do I get the Event ID 7031?

There could be various reasons why this event ID appeared; some of the common ones are: 

  • Corrupt system files – If the system files are damaged or missing, you might get this error. To fix it, you need to run a system repair scan.
  • Outdated printer drivers – Old and obsolete drivers can cause many issues, including this one. So, to fix it, we need to update printer drivers.
  • Third-party software interference – If third-party software is interfering with the work of the Print Spooler service, you might get an error. Check all newly installed software to understand what is causing it.
  • Malware infection – If your computer is affected by viruses or malware, it could cause numerous errors, including this one. You must run a malware scan to fix it and remove the infected files.

How can I fix Event ID 7031? 

Before moving to any troubleshooting methods, make sure you follow these preliminary checks: 

1. Restart the Printer Spooler service

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.Services Run Command
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open Services.
  3. Locate and right-click Printer Spooler to select Restart.Restart Printer spooler -event id 7031

2. Clear the print jobs

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.Control Printers -event id 7031
  2. Type control printers and press Enter to launch the Devices and Printers window.
  3. Click your printer and select Open print queue.Open print queue -event id 7031
  4. Select each print job from the queue and choose Cancel.

3. Update your printer drivers

3.1 Update drivers manually

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.Device Manager RUN COMMAND
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Device Manager.
  3. Now locate the Print queues option and expand it. 
  4. Right-click on the first driver listed and select the Update driver.Update drivers Print queues -event id 7031
  5. Click Search automatically for drivers.Update driver 2
  6. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the process. Now do the same for all the listed drivers under Print queues.

3.2 Use a third-party driver

Keeping the device drivers up to date is essential to run your computer smoothly. However, doing so manually is cumbersome and not always fruitful.

Hence, it is advised to use a third-party tool to update drivers, such as Outbyte Driver Updater. This driver updater tool can scan and download the latest drivers on your computer with a few clicks. To update drivers using the tool, follow these steps: 

  1. Download and install Outbyte Driver Updater.
  2. Click Scan to start the scanning process.
  3. You will get the list of outdated drivers, select the drivers and click Update driver.Outbyte Driver Updater update driver
  4. The tool will download the drivers compatible with your device.
  5. Then, follow the onscreen instructions to install the latest drivers.

4. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Copy and paste the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: sc stop spooler del C:\WINDOWS\System32\spool\PRINTERS\*.* /s /q sc start spooler
  3. Now copy and paste the following command to get the print spooler back in commission, and press Enter: sc config spooler depend=RPCSS 
  4. Open Device Manager using the steps mentioned in method 2. Go to Print queues, right-click on the printer, and select Uninstall driver.
  5. Restart your computer, and then the driver will be automatically installed.

5. Repair system files 

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc/scannowSFCSCANNOW CMD
  3. Restart your computer once the process is complete.

So, these are the steps you can follow to fix Event ID 7031 print spooler service terminated unexpectedly. Try them and let us know what worked in the comments section below.