File History Element Not Found: How to Fix This Error

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

The File History element not found error has been troubling users for quite some time. There are multiple user reports regarding this error on the official Microsoft support forums. Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users are affected by the File History element not found error.

This issue pops up because of a bug in the File History feature. You are in the right place if you are also experiencing the same problem.

Because in this guide, we will explain to you all the different methods for Windows 10 and 11 users that will help you fix the issue at hand. Let us get right into it.

What causes the File History element not found error in Windows 10 and 11?

Here are some of the most common reasons that could trigger the File History element not found error in Windows 10 and 11.

  • Presence of a bug: Due to a bug in the File History feature, you will face this error.
  • Your storage is full: If the storage drive is full where you have created the File History backup, then you will face this issue.
  • Storage drive has some issues: Due to file corruption or backup corruption, you will also face the File History element not found error.
  • Corrupt system files: If the system files are corrupt or missing, then you will multiple system problems, one of which is the error at hand.
  • Uninstall recently installed updates: For many users, the problem is triggered after updating their PCs with the latest update.

How can I fix the File History element not found error in Windows 10 and 11?

Note icon NOTE
The solutions mentioned below apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems.

1. Clean up disk storage space

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Disk Cleanup and open it.
  3. Select the drive where you store the File History backup.
  4. Click on the Clean up system files button.
  5. Check the boxes for all the unnecessary files.
  6. Click OK to delete the selected files.
  7. Wait for the cleanup to complete.
  8. Restart your PC.

Alternatively, go to the drive and delete the unwanted files from your PC one by one. The above method is helpful when cleaning up the disk space, including unwanted system files.

2. Re-enable File History

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Click on File History.
  4. Hit the Turn off button.
  5. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  6. Type the below and press Enter. %UserProfile%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\FileHistory
  7. Select all files inside the folder and hit the Delete button.
  8. Open Control Panel again.
  9. Click on File History.
  10. Select Turn on.

3. Clean up history files using CMD

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. FhManagew.exe -cleanup 30
  4. The above command will delete the File History files older than 30 days.
  5. Restart your PC.

4. Fix system corruption

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannnow
  4. Wait for the scan to complete.
  5. Type the below command and press Enter. dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  6. Once the process completes, restart your PC.

System file corruption can lead to multiple issues on your PC, including the File History element not found error.

In such a case, you should run the SFC Scan, and DISM commands to fix the files. However, in most cases, these commands do not yield the desired result. So, we suggest you use a dedicated repair tool.

5. Uninstall installed Windows updates

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Windows Update on the left pane.
  3. Click on Update history.
  4. Select Uninstall updates option.
  5. Click on Uninstall next to the recently installed update.
  6. Confirm the action by hitting Uninstall again.

Chances are that the recent Windows update introduced a bug that is causing the File History element not found error. A simple fix for this is to remove the currently installed Windows update and check whether the problem is resolved.

6. Cloud reset Windows

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Recovery.
  3. Click on Reset PC.
  4. Select the Keep my files option.
  5. Choose the Cloud download option.
  6. Let the process begin and wait for it to complete.

If none of the above solutions helped you resolve the File History element not found error, then it is time for you to reset the PC.

Following the above steps, you can reset your PC without losing your personal files and return to a state where everything generally worked on your PC.

However, we strongly advise you to create a backup of all files on your PC, as anything can happen with a single wrong click. You should check out our guide, which lists some of the best backup tools for your Windows 11 PC.

That is it from us in this guide. In addition, we have a dedicated guide that explains what File History is and how you can enable, disable or set it up on Windows 11.

Also, for users who do not know how to access File History on Control Panel, we would like them to look at our guide.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions fixed the File History element not found error.

Posted in Fix

Easily Fix Games Stuttering on Windows 10 PC [2026 UPD]

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Game stuttering, characterized by random delays in gameplay, is a frequent issue that can make games unplayable. Whether caused by outdated drivers or cluttered hard drives, this problem affects both high-end PCs and systems not meeting game requirements. This guide will explore the causes and provide solutions to fix and prevent game stuttering, enhancing your gaming experience.

What causes game stuttering?

Game stuttering usually occurs if your system is not powerful enough to run the specific game, but there are other possible reasons.

We will discuss each of them, thus allowing you to identify which ones apply to your case and deal with them accordingly. Here are some of the most common and preliminary checks you can try on your own to fix game stuttering on your PC:

Outdated drivers

Not having the latest drivers, especially the GPU driver, can affect how your hardware handles games. Ensuring all drivers are up-to-date is crucial to prevent problems. You can update them manually one by one from the Device Manager.

Lack of system optimization

Slow system performance due to clutter, like browser caches can greatly impact game speed. Utilizing the right optimization software can easily fix this issue without removing useful files.

Not meeting system requirements

If your system doesn’t meet the game’s recommended requirements, it may lead to stuttering or even closure of the game. Checking the developer’s page for hardware requirements is essential to avoid wasting money and time on an unplayable game.

Halo Reach system requirements – Source: Neowin.net

How do I fix lagging games on Windows 10?

Tip icon Tip
Not all the recommended changes here will make your PC run faster and enhance gaming performance. Some might turn out counterproductive, and it’s due to several localized factors. No matter the case, if you find the computer’s performance affected, revert the change.

1. Reduce the game’s graphics settings

In case you are wondering why my games are stuttering suddenly, remember the graphics settings significantly influence the stuttering of games in Windows 10.

If your system’s capabilities fall short of the requirements for running the game optimally, then the stuttering of your game will be influenced considerably.

Game graphics settings – Source: Nvidia

To change this option, simply open the game, navigate to its Settings, choose Graphics, and make sure to set a lower overall value or deactivate some features like Antialiasing, Shadow values, and others. This should also fix game stuttering with high FPS.

2. Update the Graphics card driver

  1. Press Win key + X and choose Device Manager from the list.
  2. Toggle the Display Adapters option.
  3. Right-click your GPU, and choose Update Driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  5. Wait for the process to complete.

If you have the GPU stuttering constantly or even micro stuttering in Windows `10, updating the graphics driver should help. So, if you were wondering why my PC is stuttering in games, it could be the outdated graphics driver to blame.

Tip icon Tip
Depending on your GPU, it might come with software that includes an update section, so be sure to check that out.

3. Turn off the Windows Game Bar and DVR

  1. Press the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Click on Gaming from the left pane, then select Xbox Game Bar from the right.
  3. Un-toggle the Xbox Game Bar option.
  4. Go back to the previous screen and click Captures.
  5. Turn off the Record what happened option.

4. Enable V-Sync

➡ Nvidia graphics

  1. Right-click the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
  2. Click 3D Settings and select Manage 3D Settings.
  3. Scroll down through the list, click on Vertical sync, and click the drop-down menu.
  4. Choose On from the drop-down menu.
  5. Press the Apply button.

➡ AMD graphics

  1. Right-click the desktop and select the AMD Radeon Settings option.
  2. Click the Gaming tab.
  3. Choose Global Settings.
  4. Click Wait for Vertical Refresh and select the Always on option.

Remember turning on V-Sync can ruin FPS so be careful on your game’s specifics before you enable it.

5. Turn off Intel Turbo Boost

  1. Enter powercfg.cpl in Run, and select the OK option.
  2. Click Change plan settings next to the selected plan.
  3. Then click Change advanced power settings.
  4. Double-click the Processor power management to expand that category.
  5. Then double-click Maximum processor state.
  6. Adjust the On battery and Plugged in values to 99 %.
  7. Click the OK button.

6. Turn off Dynamic Tick

  1. Right-click the Start menu and select Windows Terminal (Admin). On Windows 10, you can use Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt as administrator instead.
  2. Type in the following command and press Enter: bcdedit /set disabledynamictick yes
  3. Input this line, and press Enter: bcdedit /set useplatformclock true
  4. Run the following command: bcdedit /set tscsyncpolicy Enhanced
  5. Close the command window and restart your system.

Note that there are a few game booster programs that optimize system resources for games.

Software such as Game Fire 6, Razer Cortex, and Wise Game Booster include numerous resources for boosting games. This software will also close superfluous third-party programs and services for users.

Game stuttering is more likely when players don’t optimize system resources for games. As such, make sure there aren’t too many background programs consuming system resources before launching the game.

Note icon NOTE
If you want to revert all the changes made in Windows PowerShell, Command Prompt, or Windows Terminal, you can simply run the following commands:

bcdedit /set disabledynamictick no
bcdedit /set useplatformclock no
bcdedit /set tscsyncpolicy Default

7. Turn off the Diagnostic Policy Service

  1. Press Win key + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Enter services.msc in Run and click OK.
  3. Double-click Diagnostic Policy Service.
  4. Select Disabled on the Startup type drop-down menu.
  5. Click the OK button and restart your system.

The most efficient ways to prevent in-game stuttering

➡ Buy some new components

To avoid encountering the same issues in the future, the best way is to invest in better computer components for your gaming rig.

The PC components market growth estimates have been steadily increasing across time, but it does show a leveling when it comes to 2022 and 2023, so you might want to invest in some new components as soon as possible.

PC components market value estimates – Source: Statista

As it is the brain of your PC, a good processor (CPU) can make a huge difference in gameplay smoothness and overall experience.

Of course, a capable CPU will not only give you an advantage while gaming but also in everyday usage.

Besides the processing capabilities, a PC that will allow you to play games without encountering stuttering will also be equipped with a good Graphics Process Unit (GPU).

Contributing to a streamlined gaming experience also includes having enough RAM available and also high-speed storage like SSD.

➡ Update your game with the latest patches

Cyberpunk 2077 patch release – Source: Cyberpunk.net

As there might be situations where your PCs components are strong enough to run the game without issues, there might be a problem with the game itself.

Game developers release patches and fixes for known bugs regularly, so if you find yourself in this category, check out the producer’s websites for any updates.

Bonus: Games stuttering on high-end PCs

This very particular situation caught our attention, and it’s closely linked to the mentions above. In other words, the game or games may be unfit, buggy, or otherwise broken.

However, other potential culprits can cause serious lagging even on computers with superior specs.

For instance, virus and malware infections are generally responsible when you have games stuttering on a high-end PC. Thus, running a full system scan with a trustworthy antivirus program such as TotalAV makes sense.

You can also try these methods and see if they help solve or reduce the stuttering:

  • Drop any intermediary wires and connect your GPU straight to the Power supply
  • Check if your GPU’s firmware is up to date and take appropriate measures if it’s not
  • Clean up some storage and memory space (erase temp files, junk files, optimize partitions, etc.)
  • Check for signs of corruption at the system level

Can RAM cause stuttering in games?

Yes, the RAM, like any other component, can just as well be responsible for stuttering in games. Its role is to store the files for the programs currently running, and if the memory starts running low, the game’s performance is affected.

The RAM’s timing also plays a critical role here, and it has to be optimal for the best gaming experience, neither too high nor too low. Usually, adding more RAM modules to PC does help, but you can start by increasing the virtual memory.

As you can see, it is not complicated to fix game and PC stuttering in Windows 10 and 11 as long as you know what you’re doing.

Does HDD cause stutter?

If your HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or for that matter, even the SSD, is filled up with apps and files, then the required space to run the game and the OS might not be sufficient. In this case, the games will lag or even sometimes make the game crash on Windows 10.

This is why it is always recommended to keep your PC clean of any unused software and games, as any installed programs that haven’t been used lately are only slowing down your PC. Also, you could run Disk Cleanup or set up Storage Sense to automatically clear storage on the PC.

Our solutions cover all bases, from the least to the more invasive troubleshooting methods, thus allowing you to get the most results with the least effort.

You don’t need to worry about causing any extra issues as long as you’re following the steps exactly.

Preventing stuttering from appearing should be one of your top priorities as a gamer, but in case it happens suddenly, following our guide will ensure a quick resolution.

Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts about this topic with us. You can do so easily by using the comment section below.

9 Ways to Fix Internal Power Error Code on Windows 10

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Blue Screen of Death errors can be problematic on Windows 10 since they will always restart your PC to prevent damage.

These errors can disrupt your work and cause data loss. There are many variations of the Blue Screen of Death errors, with the INTERNAL POWER ERROR being one of the common ones.

Thankfully, this error is not the most difficult to fix. And we will show how to fix this issue in this guide, just like we did with the Worker Invalid BSoD error.

What is an Internal Power error?

The INTERNAL POWER ERROR is a BSoD issue that occurs constantly and takes time to leave your PC. There are different variations of the problem with varying causes.

Below are some of the common ones:

  • INTERNAL POWER ERROR on Windows 10: The INTERNAL POWER ERROR is relatively standard in Windows 10. So, if you’re using Microsoft’s latest operating system, you’re not the only one who’s run into this error.
  • Your pc ran into a problem INTERNAL POWER ERROR: This is just another error message for the same error code.

Also, according to numerous users, the INTERNAL POWER ERROR is more common on HP, Lenovo, Dell, and Surface Book devices.

Do you need hibernation file?

The Hibernation.sys file is critical for those who utilize the Hibernation feature in Windows, which allows them to turn on the computer quickly.

If you don’t mind a few extra seconds worth of boot time and want to start your computer fresh on each restart, deleting the hibernation file wouldn’t make much of a difference.

What happens if I delete the hibernation file?

When you delete the hibernation file, first, the computer will automatically disable the Hibernate feature.

Secondly, the space occupied by the hibernation file will clear up, and in case you are running low on storage, this would be helpful.

How can I fix the INTERNAL_POWER_ERROR blue screen error?

Tip icon Tip
If you cannot turn on the PC due to the BSOD error normally, boot Windows into Safe Mode with Networking to execute the fixes listed here.

1. Increase the size of the hibernation file

  1. Open the Windows search bar and type cmd.
  2. Select Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu.
  3. When Command Prompt opens, type the command below and press Enter. powercfg /hibernate /size 100
    INTERNAL_POWER_ERROR error on Windows 10

The INTERNAL POWER ERROR blue screen in Windows 10 occurs due to the small size of the hibernation file. The only solution is to increase its size.

By default, the size of the hibernation file is set to 75%. However, sometimes, that might not be enough for current memory requirements, but you can easily change the size to 100% by using the instructions above.

2. Update your drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
    device manager internal power error
  2. Double-click the option where the driver to update is to expand it.
    display adapter internal power error
  3. Right-click on each of the drivers there and select Update driver.
    update driver
  4. Now, select Search automatically for drivers.
    search automatically
  5. Wait for the search to complete and install any available update.

Blue Screen of Death errors are often caused by outdated or incompatible drivers, and to fix this error, we strongly advise you to update all drivers on your PC.

Aside from using the built-in Windows 11 updater to update the drivers manually, you can go to the manufacturer’s website to download it.

Alternatively, you can use dedicated software in Outbyte Driver Updater to make the process easier. This is because downloading drivers manually can be a long and tiresome process.

Also, there is always the risk of downloading the wrong drivers. But with Outbyte Driver Updater, the tool will scan for outdated drivers and recommend an original update from its extensive database before it can cause problems. All with little to no input from you.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Safely update all your drivers and keep them up to date automatically.
Free Trial Download now

3. Disable your graphics card or roll back your drivers

  1. Click the Start icon followed by the Power button.
  2. Hold the Shift key and click the Restart button.
    restart power
  3. Follow this path: Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
    computer stuck on motherboard splash screen
  4. Click the Restart button.
  5. After your computer restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Press 5 or F5 to select Safe Mode with Networking.
    Computer screeching sound
  6. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager from the list.
    device-manager
  7. Double-click the Display adapters option to expand it.
    display adapter internal power error
  8. Right-click on your graphics driver and choose Disable device.
    disable internal power error
  9. If disabling your driver is causing issues, right-click the driver again and select the Properties option.
    properties driver
  10. Click the Driver tab at the top.
  11. Now, click the Roll Back Driver button.
    roll back driver

Many users reported issues with AMD graphic cards, and according to them, the only way to fix Windows 10 INTERNAL POWER ERROR after sleep is to disable or roll back the drivers. 

4. Disable automatic driver updates

  1. Press the Windows + S keys and type advanced system settings.
  2. Select the View advanced system settings option.
    advanced system tab
  3. Click the Hardware tab at the top.
    hardware internal power error
  4. Now, click the Device Installation Settings button.
    device installation
  5. Tick the radio button for No (your device might not work as expected).
    no
  6. Now, open the Device Manager and right-click your driver.
  7. Select the Uninstall device option.
    uniinstall device
  8. Finally, click the Uninstall button.
    uninstall internal power error

To fix the INTERNAL POWER ERROR in Windows 10 on Dell and other devices, you might need to uninstall your graphic card driver, but that might not be as easy since Windows 10 will automatically install the missing drivers.

If you cannot access Windows 10 generally due to BSoD error, you can always perform these steps from Safe Mode. After you disable driver updates, you need to remove your driver.

After the problematic driver is removed, download the new driver from your graphic card manufacturer’s website, but be careful not to install the same problematic driver again.

5. Set your hard drive turn off timer to 0

  1. Press Windows key + S and enter power plan.
  2. Select Edit power plan from the list of results.
    edit power plan internal power error
  3. Click on Change advanced power settings.
    change advanced
  4. Click the Hard disk option to expand it.
  5. Now, set the value for Turn off hard disk after to 0.
    turn hard disk
  6. Finally, click Apply and OK to save the changes.
    apply ok

If you’re getting INTERNAL POWER ERROR BSoD, you can fix it by setting your hard drive turn-off timer to 0. 

6. Make sure you’re using the correct hard drive mode

A few users reported that INTERNAL POWER ERROR in Windows 10 could be caused by incorrect hard drive mode, and to fix this error. You’ll have to change your hard drive mode in BIOS.

For detailed instructions on how to do that, we strongly advise that you check your motherboard manual.

7. Perform the SFC check

  1. Go to Search and type cmd.
  2. Select the Run as administrator option under Command Prompt.
  3. Enter the following line, and press Enter: sfc/scannow Your pc ran into a problem internal power error
  4. Wait for the process to finish.
  5. Restart your computer.

SFC is Windows 10’s built-in tool for dealing with various system-related problems. It scans for corrupt and broken system files and repairs them accordingly. It should help you fix the INTERNAL POWER ERROR after startup if it is down to your system files.

8. Clean junk files

  1. Go to Search, type this pc, and open This PC.
  2. Right-click the system drive (most likely C:), and select Properties.
    properties pc
  3. Now, click the Disk Cleanup button.
    disk cleanup
  4. Check the boxes for the files to delete.
  5. Click the Clean up system files button.
  6. Now, click the OK button.
    clean system internal power error
  7. Wait for the process to finish and restart your computer.

There could be some junk files on your computer that are causing the INTERNAL POWER ERROR in Windows 10, so the obvious solution, in this case, is to clean them.

9. Check for HDD corruption

  1. Go to Search, type this pc, and open This PC.
  2. Right-click the system drive (most likely C:), and select Properties.
    properties pc
  3. Now, click the Tools tab.
  4. Click the Check button under the Error checking option.
    checck button internal power error
  5. Finally, click Scan Drive, and wait for the process to finish.
    scan drive

Since we’re at the hard drive, let’s quickly check for any errors because these errors can also cause the INTERNAL POWER ERROR in Windows 10.

How can I fix the INTERNAL POWER ERROR on Windows 11?

To fix the INTERNAL POWER ERROR on Windows 11, check your hard drive for errors. We have shown how to do that in Solution 9 of this guide.

Also, you can run the SFC scan to fix corrupt and broken system files. You can use any fixes in this guide to resolve the issue.

So, if you were wondering how to fix the Windows error code INTERNAL POWER ERROR in Windows 10, updating or reinstalling the drivers, increasing the hibernation file’s size, disabling automatic updates, and checking for corrupt system files should help.

Before you leave, don’t miss our latest guide on Manually_Initiated_Power_Button_Hold for more useful information.

Don’t hesitate to drop us a line in the comments if you have similar problems.

Run Program as a Different User on Windows 10 [4 Ways]

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

You can create multiple user accounts on your Windows PC. Moreover, you can run apps and processes for a particular account. If you run a program in one account, it won’t appear on another.

However, you can run these processes as a different user on Windows 10 if you have access to the other account. This guide will show you the different ways to run a program as a different user on Windows 10. So, let us get right into it.

Why would I want to run a program as a different user on Windows 10?

There are plenty of good reasons to run a program as a different user on Windows 10. Some of them are listed below.

  • Check for an issue on the app for the user: If you run a program as a different user, then you can troubleshoot problems on the app that a particular user is facing.
  • Protect your data: If you are not sure about a program, running it as a different user will restrict it from accessing your sensitive data.
  • Check for conflicts: For users who have issues running a program, which could be because of a third-party app conflict, you can run it as a different user to fix the problem.
  • Provide sufficient resources: A new user account provides free memory for the program, which would provide better performance.

How can I run a program as a different user on Windows 10?

1. Using the context menu

  1. Hold the Shift key and right-click on the app on your Taskbar or desktop.
  2. Select Run as a different user from the context menu.
  3. Enter the username and password of the user account.
  4. Click OK.

2. Using Command Prompt

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open the command prompt as an admin.Command Prompt Windows 10
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. runas /user:"Username" "FileLocation" (Replace Username and Filelocation with the actual username and the location of the program)
  4. Type the username and password for the user account in a prompt that appears and press Enter.

3. Using Group Policy Editor

  1. Hit the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  3. Head to the below-mentioned location. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Start Menu and Taskbar
  4. Double-click on Show “Run as different user” command on Start.
  5. Select Enabled.
  6. Click Apply and OK to save changes.

4. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the below path. Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer
  4. Right-click on the ShowRunAsDifferentUserInStart key and select Modify.
  5. In the Value Data field, type 1.
  6. Click OK to save the changes.

We suggest you tweak the registry editor only if the previous methods did not work or if you know that tweaking the registry keys wrongly could crash your system.

Well, we have a dedicated guide that gives you many methods to help you restore Windows 10 without registry backup.

That is it from us in this guide. However, for users getting an error, this app can’t run on this PC, we advise you to check out our dedicated guide to resolve the problem.

Besides, without going through so much trouble, you can always make the program available to all users.

We also have a guide explaining solutions to repair the user profile in Windows 10. Like Windows 10, you can refer to our guide on running apps as a different user in Windows 11.

To know how to enable or disable the fast user switching in Windows 11, we suggest you check out our guide.

Several users have also reported that they aren’t able to add a new user account in Windows 10 or 11. If that is the case, you can refer to our guide, which mentions some practical solutions to resolve the problem. Moreover, if the Run as Different User option isn’t working properly, we’ve got you covered.

If the deleted user account keeps appearing on your Windows 10 PC, you should check out our guide and fix the problem.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions you opted for to run an app as a different user on your Windows 10 PC.

Desktop Window Manager Has High GPU Usage: How to Fix it

Posted on by Cesar Cadenas

Desktop Windows Manager is an important process, but many reported that Desktop Window Manager causes high GPU usage on their PC.

Some users have encountered issues as a message pops up saying that their GPU memory is full, which can cause a lot of stress and confusion.

How do I stop Desktop Window Manager from using so much GPU?

1. Update drivers

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. the Device Manager in the search bar and open it.
  3. Expand the Display adapters section.
  4. Right-click on your GPU and select Update drivers.
  5. Choose Search automatically for drivers to update.

Desktop Window Manager high GPU usage can occur with AMD graphics, so it’s important to keep drivers up to date.

If you want to avoid following the steps mentioned above, and also keep your PC’s drivers updated constantly, using specialized software like Fortect Driver Updater can do the trick.

It will not only keep all of your drivers up to date with just a few clicks, but it will also help you schedule scans, create driver backups, act as a downloaded manager, and much more.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

2. Turn off visual effects

  1. Press the Windows key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows and open it.adjust-performance-w11 windows 10 random shutdown
  3. Select Adjust for best performance and click OK.adjuns-performance windows 10 random shutdown
  4. Check whether the issue is gone.

3. Change personalization

  1. On your desktop, right-click anywhere and select Personalize. The process is the same for Windows 10 and 11, but the guide will focus on Windows 11 for brevity.
  2. Click on Background.
  3. In the Personalize your background drop-down, select Solid color.
  4. Select a color to serve as your background. (Doesn’t matter which, so long as the background doesn’t have a graphic that will increase GPU consumption.)
  5. You can also create your own custom color.
  6. Back in the Personalization menu, select Colors.
  7. Turn off Transparency effects.
  8. Go back to the Personalization menu, and select Themes.
  9. Select either Windows (Light) or Windows (Dark).

Disabling these features should fix desktop Window Manager high GPU usage in OBS and other software.

4. Disable the Fast Startup feature

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win button.
  2. Type Control Panel and open it.
  3. Ensure that either Large Icons or Small Icons are in the View by.
  4. Click on Category and make the change to either Icon choice.
  5. Select Power Options.
  6. Click Choose what power buttons do on the left pane.
  7. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  8. Under Shutdown settings, click Turn on fast startup (recommended) and Hibernate to turn them off.
  9. Open the Start menu and open System Configuration.
  10. Click the Services tab.
  11. Click Hide all Microsoft services.
  12. Hit the Disable all button.
  13. Restart your computer.

5. Turn off Hardware accelerated GPU scheduling

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type Display Settings and open it.
  3. Click on Graphics.
  4. Click on Change default graphics settings.
  5. Toggle off the Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling option.
  6. Restart your PC.

Once you disable this feature, check if Desktop Window Manager high GPU usage still occurs when watching YouTube.

Why is Desktop Windows Manager taking up so much GPU?

Here are a few of the most common reasons that trigger the Desktop Windows Manager high GPU issue:

  • Problem with your hardware: Dwm.exe can usually use a lot of GPU memory if there’s a problem with your hardware.
  • The GPU driver hasn’t updated: Chances are the your drivers aren’t up to date. To fix this problem update graphics drivers.
  • Latest Windows update isn’t installed: Latest Windows updates not only bring new features but also fix the bugs that cause multiple issues, such as the one at hand.
  • Corrupt system files: System files are responsible for the smooth functioning of your PC, and if they are corrupt or missing, then they can cause issues.
  • Misconfigured graphics settings: You should check if your Nvidia or AMD graphics settings aren’t misconfigured.

One solution that wasn’t touched upon for Desktop Windows Manager is using antivirus software. In certain situations, malware may cause DWM suddenly use more resources.

Other GPU problems may be due to high internal temperatures. Normal temperatures range from 149 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit (65 to 85 degrees Celsius) but go slightly higher during intense gaming sessions.

Prolonged high temperatures can cause permanent damage to your GPU, so it’s recommended that you check GPU temperature.

Conversely, there are solutions for low GPU usage and high CPU usage. It’s a mismatched problem that can be caused by bottlenecking, but not always.

From this strange discrepancy, you may have to deal with frame drops and stuttering or high CPU temperature. This problem may be caused by out-of-date drivers or certain apps getting in the way.

This process can cause issues with your RAM as well, and we have a whole guide dedicated to Desktop Window Manager high memory usage.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about other Windows 11 apps. Also, leave comments about guides you’d like to see or information on other Windows 11 features or list guides like this.

Windows 11 Randomly or Automatically Shuts Down [Fix]

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Just like when Windows 11 keeps restarting, Windows 11 randomly shuts down is frustrating for anyone who can’t live a day without their PC.

If you’ve been looking for a solution for these auto shutdowns on Windows 11, you’ve just landed on the right page.

Why is my computer shutting down randomly in Windows 11?

Your computer could shut down randomly without you hitting the power button for various reasons that include but are not limited to the following:

  • Overheating – Your computer is programmed to power off when its temperature rises to a certain level to protect hardware and software components.
  • Malfunctioning sleep mode – In Windows 11, the Sleep Mode may become problematic and result in unexpected shutdowns rather than the expected sleep.
  • Overclocking – Your computer’s components might be unable to handle the additional power requirements if it has been overclocked. Hence, randomly shutting down.
  • Faulty drivers – Random PC shutdowns can also be caused by outdated or defective drivers.
  • Hardware problem – Your computer can shut off due to failing hardware components.

Whatever causes your Windows 11 PC to shut down abruptly, the solution to fix it is here.

How can I fix a random shutdown on Windows 11?

To stop Windows 11 from random shutdowns, start with these basic troubleshooting steps: 

  • Ensure your cables are connected correctly, or switch to a different power source. That should fix it if they are the root of the problem.
  • Updating Windows to the latest version could be all you need if the problem is due to some bugs
  • Use your PC in a well-ventilated room. Avoid direct sunlight or anything that could heat your PC. If your computer fans are dirty, cleaning it can be the solution.
  • Use your antivirus to scan and remove viruses from your computer. You can also use Microsoft Windows Defender to banish unwelcome guests from your computer.

If none of these preliminary solutions stops Windows 11 from shutting down abruptly, try the following advanced troubleshooting methods.

1. Run the Power troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings, select the System tile, and scroll down to choose Troubleshoot on the right pane.
    Open system troubleshooter
  2. Next, select Other troubleshooters.
    Select other troubleshooters
  3. Scroll down to locate Power and click on the Run button to start the troubleshooting.
    Start power troubleshooting
  4. Wait for Windows to detect the issue, then follow the on-screen instruction to apply the fixes.
  5. Restart your PC.

2. Disable fast startup

  1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog, type control into the command box, and click the OK button.
    Open control panel
  2. Go to System and Security.
    system and security
  3. Next, select Power Options.
    Power options
  4. Click on Choose what the power buttons do on the left sidebar.
    power button options
  5. Next, click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
    unavailable changes
  6. Uncheck the box next to Turn on fast startup (recommended) and click on the Save changes button.
    turn off fast startup
  7. Restart your PC and check if your PC no longer shuts down randomly.

3. Change advanced power settings

  1. Click on the Windows icon on your taskbar, enter Control Panel into the Search box, and select the Best match result.
    open control panel
  2. Select System and Security on the left pane, and click on Power Options.
    power options
  3. Next, click on Change plan settings.Change Plan Settings
  4. Next, click on Change advanced power settings.
    Change advanced settings
  5. On the pop-up window, double-click to expand Hard disk, then set the On battery and Plugged in options under Turn off hard disk after to Never. Click the Apply then OK button to save your changes.
    change advanced settings 1
  6. On the same pop-up window, navigate to Processor power management, double-click to expand it, and select Minimum processor state. Change the value of the On battery and Plugged in options to 0%. Click the Apply then OK button to save your changes.
    Change advanced settings 2

Note that this solution is only for laptop users but is very effective in getting rid of the Windows 11 auto shutdown problem.

4. Turn off sleep mode

  1. Press Windows + I keys on your keyboard to open Settings.
  2. Go to the System tile on the left pane, then scroll down to select Power & battery on the right.
    power and battery settings
  3. Under Screen and sleep, set On battery power, put my device to sleep after and When plugged in, put my device to sleep after options to Never.
    turn off sleep mode

Some Windows 11 users complained of power settings not being available under Screen and sleep. If this is your case, follow this guide to quickly fix missing power settings on your Windows 11 PC.

If the PC shuts down randomly, but it’s not overheating, you may be just entering sleep mode.

5. Run the SFC and DISM commands

  1. Press the Windows icon on your taskbar, type cmd into the Search box, right-click on the Best match result and select the Run as administrator option.
    open command prompt
  2. Type in the following command and hit Enter:sfc /scannowrun scan command
  3. Wait for the process to complete, then paste this next command and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  4. Wait for the entire process to be complete and restart your computer.

Check this post for more information on how to use the DSIM command to fix Windows. The guide is for Windows 10, but the steps are the same on Windows 11.

6. Perform a System Restore

  1. Click on the Windows icon on your taskbar, type Create a restore point into the Search box and select the Best match result.
    open system restore
  2. On the System Properties window, click on the System Restore… button.
    Open system restore
  3. Click the Next button.
    restore system files and settings
  4. Select the available restore point and click the Next button.
    select restore point
  5. Click the Finish button to confirm your restore point.
    Confirm restore point
  6. System Restore will automatically restart your computer to effect the changes. Wait for the process to complete then check if the problem has been fixed.

If the problem persists after using all the above solutions, resetting Windows 11, manually or automatically is the next resort.

Another worth-knowing method that can repair your PC and fix shutting-down issues is a PC optimization tool designed for system restore operation.

7. Reset PC to factory settings

  1. Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings, select the System tile, and scroll down to choose Recovery on the right pane.
    Recovery settings
  2. Under Recovery options, click the Reset PC button next to Reset this PC.
    reset this PC
  3. Next, choose Keep my files to reset all system settings default without removing any personal file.
    Reset settings only
  4. Follow the on-screen instruction to complete the process.

Sometimes, the reset PC feature might not work on Windows 11. If you encounter this, follow the linked guide to fix it.

Can unexpected shutdown damage your computer?

A sudden shutdown can damage the PC’s hardware and software, though the effects on the latter are more profound. The damage is minor for hardware unless the computer is repeatedly shut down the same way over an extended period. The hard drive is usually the worst affected component and you might get the windows failed to load properly message..

But when it comes to software, an unexpected shutdown can wreak havoc. It’s one of the primary reasons behind corrupt system files, which leads to a range of other issues, sometimes even a Blue Screen of Death. Also, you lose unsaved data due to an unexpected shutdown.

Where can I find shutdown logs?

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Event Viewer in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.event viewer
  2. Expand Windows Logs from the navigation pane, and then select System under it.Windows logs
  3. You can now view all the shutdown logs on the right.shutdown logs

You can check the error logs to ascertain the shutdown history of the PC and identify any issues encountered during the process. Here are a few Event IDs you should be aware of for a better understanding of the shutdown logs:

  • Event ID 6006: Indicates a proper shutdown. So there’s nothing to be concerned about.
  • Event ID 6008: Indicates an improper shutdown. So, you should verify what caused it and take the necessary steps to prevent future occurrences.
  • Event ID 1074: Indicates a built-in or third-party application initiated the shutdown. It could just as well be Windows Update, but you may verify that same.
  • Event ID 41: Indicates that the PC underwent a reboot without shutting down properly.

That’s about it. Hopefully, you can stop random shutdowns on your Windows 11 device with one of these solutions.

Sometimes, the shutdown box pops up randomly on Windows 11 due to system glitches. Follow the linked guide to fix it. We also have a new guide on Windows 11 shutdown but user stays logged in, so don’t miss it.

After you solve this annoying problem, you might want to look at the best Windows 11 productivity apps to boost your PC performance.

Reach out in the comments section below for any questions or suggestions.

How to Fix Alt F4 When It’s not Working

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

We use keyboard shortcuts all the time, but some users have reported the Alt F4 not working on their PC.

This isn’t a major problem unless you use this shortcut frequently. Luckily, there are ways to fix this, and in today’s guide, we’ll show you the best ways to do it.

How do I fix Alt F4 not working?

1. Check FN Lock 

  1. If you have a function key on your keyboard, press and hold it. It’s usually labeled Fn.
  2. While holding this key, press Alt + F4.
  3. Check if this works.

2. Update keyboard drivers 

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager from the menu.select device manager
  2. Expand the Keyboards section to see the list of connected keyboards.keyboard drivers
  3. Right-click your keyboard and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers to let Windows find the latest driver online.

3. Turn off Sticky Keys 

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Ease of Access.
  3. Scroll down and open the Keyboard tab from the left pane.
  4. Scroll down and click toggle the switch to turn off Use Sticky Keys.
  5. Close the Settings window and then check if the Alt F4 key combo is working.

4. Run keyboard troubleshooter

  1. Click on Start and choose Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Open the Troubleshoot tab from the left pane.
  4. Click on the Additional troubleshooters option.
  5. Scroll down and select the Keyboard option.
  6. Click the Run the troubleshooter button. It will scan your system for keyboard-related issues and recommend some fixes. 
    Alt F4 not working in Windows 10

5. Disable Legacy Fx function in BIOS

  1. Turn off your PC completely.
  2. Press the power button to restart and start pressing the F2 or F12 key on your keyboard right away. Keep pressing the keys until you access BIOS.
  3. Once in BIOS, open the Configuration tab. You can use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate.
  4. Use the down arrow key to highlight Hotkey Mode.
  5. Use the left and right arrow key to set Hotkey Mode to Disabled.
  6. Save the changes and exit BIOS.

If the issue persists, modify some registry entries to resolve the issue. Alternatively, change function keys in Windows 10 to bind your F4 key to another key.

6. Modify Windows Registry settings 

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open Run.
  2. Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor.
    Alt F4 not working in Windows 10
  3. In Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
  4. In the Explore folder, check if an entry named NoWinKeys exists. If yes, double-click to open it and then set the Decimal value to 0.
  5. If not, right-click on the Explorer folder, go to New and choose the DWORD (32-bit) value.
    Alt F4 not working in Windows 10
  6. Rename it as NoWinKeys.
  7. Double-click on the newly created entry and set the decimal value to 0.

7. Check for hardware issues 

Even if the issue persists after following all the troubleshooting steps, it is time to diagnose your keyboard for hardware issues. Laptop and external keyboards over time can wear off and may require replacement.

While you can use an external keyboard, this may not be ideal for those who use their laptop on the go or carry it out. Contact your laptop service center for a better diagnostic of your computer keyboard.

The Alt F4 not working issue in Windows 10 usually occurs due to Fn lock being enabled. Run the keyboard troubleshoot and perform other troubleshooting steps listed in this article to resolve the issue.

This isn’t the only issue you can experience and many users reported that Alt Tab is not working for them. Others reported that Alt + Shift is not changing language, but we covered that in a separate guide.

Did you manage to fix this issue? Let us know in the comments section below.

Cortana Keeps Popping Up: How to Stop in 5 Steps

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Apps acting as they should is essential for the best experience on your PC. So when Cortana keeps popping up, it reduces the value you get from your computer. While Cortana is undoubtedly a great addition to what Windows 10 already offers, no one wants it all over the place all the time.

This guide will walk you through some triggers for this problem and the best possible solutions. You may also read our other guide if Cortana is not working on your device.

Why is Cortana constantly popping up?

Over time, users have highlighted some of the causes for this problem with Cortana, and here are the top triggers we have been able to gather:

  • Trackpad gestures – You may accidentally give a command without meaning to, especially if you have Trackpad gestures turned on.
  • Driver issues – You may be using outdated drivers, which no longer work well with your Trackpad.
  • Malware – As we all know, viruses may trigger many PC problems, which could be one such case. You should always use the best antivirus programs.
  • Keyboard errors – Some keys may be stuck, triggering constant calls for Cortana. We advise you to use only the best keyboards.

This post will show you how to stop Cortana from popping up when scrolling and get rid of it forever. Let’s get started.

What can I do if Cortana keeps popping up?

Before going into these fixes, we recommend you unplug your keyboard and other peripherals, as they may trigger this Cortana problem.

1. Turn off Hey Cortana hot word detection

  1. Open the Start menu, type in Cortana, and click Cortana & Search settings.
    cortana keeps popping up
  2. Look for the setting that reads Let Cortana respond to Hey Cortana, then turn the option off.
    cortana keeps popping up

2. Disable Cortana on the lock screen

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. When the Settings app opens, navigate to the Cortana section.
    Disable three finger tap Cortana
  3. In the right pane, locate Use Cortana even when my device is locked and disable it.
    Find box keeps popping up

After this, check if Cortana keeps popping up.

3. Modify your registry

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter regedit. Now press Enter or click OK.
    Cortana search keeps popping up
  2. Navigate to the path below:
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Synaptics\SynTP\Win10
  3. Right-click the Win10 key and choose Export from the menu.
    Cortana keeps activating
  4. In the Export range, select Selected branch, enter the desired file name and click on Save. If anything goes wrong after modifying the registry, you can always run the exported file and restore the registry.
    Stop Cortana popping up when scrolling
  5. In the right pane, delete the following DWORDs:
    • 3FingerTapAction
    • 3FingerTapPlugInActionID
    • 3FingerTapPlugInID
    • 3FingerPressButtonAction

After doing that, check if Cortana keeps popping up. If you can’t find any DWORDs or the path from Step 2, this solution doesn’t apply to you so that you can skip it.

4. Disable Cortana

  1. Press Windows + R, then type regedit and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to the path below (If you do not have the second Windows folder, create a new key and call it Windows):
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Windows
  3. Create a DWORD (32-bit) Value key and name it AllowCortana.
    Cortana Keeps Popping up
  4. Double-click AllowCortana and set the value to 0.

5. Reset Cortana

  1. Click on Windows Search, type Cortana, and select App Settings.
  2. Scroll down, then click on Repair, and also click on Reset.
    cortana keeps popping up

If Cortana keeps popping up, these methods will fix your problem, as they already have for countless others over the internet.

Let us know how these instructions worked out for you in our comments!

How to Find & Change Mac Address on Windows 11

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

Have you been wondering where to find or change your MAC address on Windows 11, but you do not yet know how to go about it?

Since it is possible to cloak an IP address, this article will provide simplified steps to set a custom MAC address from your device properties on Windows 11.

Can a MAC address be changed?

The default MAC address of your Windows computer can be changed, although device manufacturers strongly advise against it because it may result in unanticipated problems.

On a Network Interface Controller (NIC), the MAC address is hard-coded and cannot be altered, though, with some drivers, it may be possible.

Moreover, there are also third-party programs that a user can use to change the MAC address to spoof an operating system into thinking that a particular MAC address belongs to a NIC.  

We’d advise you to opt for random hardware addresses instead of changing your MAC address, but if you must, below is how to go about it.

How do I find and change the MAC address on Windows 11?

1. Use Windows 11 CMD

  1. Press the Windows key, type in command prompt, and click on Run as administrator.
  2. Input the following command and click Enter: reg add “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E972-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}\0001” /v NetworkAddress /d 4181DBEA0EDF /f
  3. Remember to change the string value to your device’s.
  4. Wait for the command to run successfully and restart your PC.
  5. To confirm if the change has been made, open the Command Prompt as instructed above, type the following command, and press Enter: ipconfig /all
  6. You should now see the new MAC address show up in the line starting with Physical Address.

The Command Prompt offers many tips and tricks. It also saves a lot of stress navigating through several clicks. One of the commands lets you change the MAC address in Windows 11 from Device Manager.

2. Via Device Manager

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Select the System category in the left sidebar and click on About.
  3. Next, select Device Manager.
  4. Expand the Network adapters by double-clicking on it, then right-click on the Network device, and select the Properties option.
  5. From the Properties dialog, select the Advanced tab. Under the Property box, scroll down and select Locally Administered Address.
  6. Now, type the 12-digit new alphabetical MAC address in the Value field and then click the OK button.
  7. If you don’t know what value to enter, you may use a search engine to look for MAC address generator. There are plenty of websites that can help you generate one for you.
  8. Restart your PC.

The Windows 11 Settings app has been massively upgraded in usability compared to other lesser Windows versions, making finding a specific setting easier.

You can also explore a full list of reliable utilities that simplify this task by checking the best MAC address changer tools available for Windows.

3. Change the Wi-Fi MAC address on Windows 11

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Network & Internet settings on the left sidebar and select Wi-Fi on the right.
  3. Now, enable the switch called Random hardware addresses at the bottom of the window. This will enable you to spoof your MAC addresses for all the Wi-Fi networks.
  4. To spoof the MAC address for a specific Wi-Fi network, click on Manage known networks.
  5. Next, click on any wireless network of your choice.
  6. On that Wi-Fi network’s page, locate the Random hardware addresses setting.
  7. Then click on the drop-down list on its right side and select the option you prefer (Off/On/Change daily).

Windows 11 also allows you to change your MAC address for each Wi-Fi network you connect to and those you will still connect to. This setting will be practical when connecting to the chosen Wi-Fi network.

That’s it on how to find & change the MAC address on a Windows 11 PC, and we hope the information we offered is useful.

For additional information, you can explore our dedicated guide on how to change the MAC address in Windows 10. Hopefully, you’ll find something helpful therein.

Alternatively, you can explore our article to know if a VPN can hide your MAC address and if sharing your MAC address is dangerous for security purposes.

Steam Won’t Open on Windows 11: How to Fix It

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

The Steam app is one of the most popular gaming platforms, with millions of players worldwide. However, some of our readers recently complained that Steam won’t open on Windows 11.

If you have been experiencing similar issues on your Windows 11 PC, do not worry, as we have gathered some potential fixes for your Steam application.

Why is my Steam not opening?

Whenever your Steam app is not opening, there can be several reasons behind this error. One of the major reasons reported by some users is that the error occurs when the app runs in the background without showing in the Taskbar or system tray for a long time.

Other factors causing this issue are as follows:

  • Interruptions from third-party applications – Your Steam startup can be interrupted by third-party applications or antivirus programs. A quick fix can be to disable unnecessary programs or uninstall your antivirus applications.
  • Using an outdated Steam version or Windows OS – Another possible reason behind this error is when you’re using the older Steam version that contains bugs, or your Windows OS is outdated.
  • Missing or Corrupted files – There is a possibility that the installation files and other essential documents for the Steam client have been removed or are corrupted.
  • Critical services not running – Steam may fail to open because certain services are not running or essential permissions are missing.
  • Issues with the user account – Some of our readers reported that when their user account is corrupted, it affected most of their applications, but having a new user profile, the error is fixed.

We will highlight below the proven fixes for the problem. You can work your way through the article and apply a suitable fix to eliminate the issue.

What can I do if Steam is not opening on Windows 11?

Before using any of the fixes provided in this article, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements to run the Steam application. You can also perform the following preparatory checks:

  • Restart your PC.
  • Update your system’s date & time settings.
  • Make sure you are running the latest version of Steam and Windows 11.
  • Check your PC for malware or viruses with your built-in security programs, or use the best third-party antivirus software.
  • Disconnect all USB devices and non-critical peripherals.

Having confirmed the above checks and you still require further assistance, you can proceed to our next section to know what fixes to apply.

1. End all Steam tasks

1.1 Using Task Manager

  1. Right-click on your Start button, and then select Task Manager from the options.
  2. Locate Steam and click on End Task.

1.2 Using Command Prompt

  1. Click the Windows button once and type cmd in the Search box and select Run as administrator.
  2. Then, type the following command in the text field and press Enter: taskkill /f /IM "steam.exe"
  3. Wait for the command to execute, and then try running Steam again.

Sometimes we encounter an app not opening problem, whereas the app has been launched in the background and consumes computing power.

Ending the Steam tasks should fix the problem. However, if this does not work for you, try the next fix.

2. Run Steam as an administrator

  1. Right-click on the Steam app and click on Properties.
  2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab. Check the box next to the Run this program as an administrator option.
  3. Next, click on Apply and click OK to save the settings.

Once done, restart the Steam app and see if the problem is fixed. If it persists, move to the next solution.

3. Clear the Steam download cache

  1. Right-click on your Steam app and then click the Steam option on the top right title bar.
  2. Next, select Settings from the menu.
  3. Click on Downloads from the left menu and then, click on the Clear Download Cache button on the right.
  4. Click on Yes when the verification message pops up.
  5. Steam will restart while clearing the download cache, and you’ll need to log back in to start gaming.

An overloaded cache can trigger the Steam won’t open on Windows 11 problem, hence the need to clear the Steam download cache.

4. Reinstall the Steam app

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Choose Apps from the left pane and click on Installed apps from the right.
  3. Scroll through the list of apps until you find Steam, click on the three dots button to its right, and select Uninstall.
  4. Now, go to the official Steam page, log into your account, and hit the Install Steam button.

Reinstalling Steam is the last thing you can do, but sometimes it’s the only solution if Steam doesn’t work on Windows 11.

You can also find this helpful by checking our detailed guide on fixing Steam windows are going black.

The above fixes will likely fix the issue with your Steam app, which won’t open in Windows 11. If none of these fixes worked for you, consider reinstalling the Steam app or performing a system restore.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please use the comments section below.

GeForce Experience Preparing to Install: 7 Ways to Unstuck It

Posted on by Matthew Adams

The GeForce Experience app is a dedicated control panel to manage the NVIDIA GPUs. It helps change graphics settings throughout the system and make app-specific changes. Of late, many users reported that GeForce Experience is stuck on the Preparing to install screen.

When this happens, users can’t update the NVIDIA drivers, which greatly affects the Windows experience and might lead to poor gaming performance. So, let’s find out all about the GeForce Experience Preparing to install error and the solutions for it.

Why does GeForce Experience take so long to install drivers?

Here are a few reasons the GeForce driver is taking forever to install:

  • Slow Internet connection: Whenever something is to be downloaded off the web, a slow Internet connection will increase the time required for the process to complete.
  • Missing permissions: Even missing relevant permissions can affect the effective functioning of the app and be the reason NVIDIA is stuck on installing the graphics driver.
  • The update is stuck: In some cases, users found GeForce Experience stuck on the screen. It usually takes a few minutes at max to complete the installation, but if that’s not the case, the update might be stuck.

What can I do if GeForce Experience is stuck on preparing to install?

Before we start with the complex changes, here are a few quick tricks that might help:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Run GeForce Experience as administrator and check whether you can update the drivers. To do that, right-click on the launcher, and select Run as administrator.
  • Disconnect all non-critical devices from the PC, including printers, audio devices, and USB hubs.
  • Check if any UAC prompts appear and click Yes on every one of them.
  • Re-attempt the driver installation and verify whether GeForce Experience is still stuck on the Preparing to install screen.
  • Disable any third-party antivirus, firewall, or similar security software installed on the PC. If that does the trick, we recommend you switch to reliable all-round antivirus.
  • Check for Windows Updates and install any that are pending.
  • Check for corrupt system files and run the DISM tool and SFC scan to fix them.

If none of these work, move to the solutions listed next.

1. Terminate programs running the driver

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, locate GeForce Experience, right-click on it, and select End task.terminate to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  2. Similarly, terminate the other non-critical apps and processes here.
  3. Now, press Windows + R to open Run, type services.msc, and hit Enter.services.msc
  4. Right-click on the Cryptographic Services entry, and select Stop from the context menu.stop to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  5. Once done, again launch GeForce Experience, and then try installing the driver.

Many users managed to fix things when GeForce Driver was stuck on Preparing to install by terminating the processes that were engaging the driver and stopping the Cryptographic Services. Also, if you have Steam or game clients running in the background, terminate them.

2. Modify Windows Security settings

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Search menu, type Windows Security, and click on the relevant search result.windows security
  2. Click on App & browser control.app & browser control
  3. Now, click Exploit protection settings.exploit protection settings to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  4. Go to the Program settings tab, click on Add program to customize, and select Choose exact file path from the flyout menu.add program
  5. Navigate to the following path:C:\Program Files\NVIDIA Corporation\NVIDIA GeForce Experience
  6. Select the NVIDIA GeForce Experience.exe file, and click Open.Geforce experience
  7. Finally, scroll down to Disable extension points, tick the checkbox for Override system settings, then enable the toggle under it, and click on Apply to save the changes. disable extension points to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  8. If GeForce Experience ran all this while, restart the application, and you should be able to install the drivers.

3. Uninstall conflicting applications

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click OK.appwiz.cpl
  2. Locate applications installed around the same time the problem first appeared, select them individually, and then click Uninstall.uninstall app to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

It may take a while to identify the conflicting application, and you may end up removing a few others in the process. Don’t worry! You can always reinstall these once the problematic app is uninstalled.

A few users found out that ZoneAlarm Firewall was the underlying cause when GeForce Experience was stuck at Preparing to install. Look for it and other similar apps.

4. Reconfigure the NVIDIA 3D settings

  1. Open the NVIDIA Control Panel, expand 3D Settings, and then click on Manage 3D settings.manage 3d settings
  2. Click on the Restore button.restore to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  3. Choose the appropriate response in case a confirmation prompt appears.

5. Reinstall GeForce Experience

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Installed apps (the option reads Apps and Features in Windows 10).installed apps
  2. Locate the GeForce Experience app, click on the ellipsis next to it, and select Uninstall from the flyout menu.uninstall app to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  3. Again, click on Uninstall in the confirmation prompt.uninstall
  4. Once done, restart the computer.
  5. Now, head to the official website, and download GeForce Experience.geforce experience
  6. Run the setup and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

After you have reinstalled GeForce Experience, the driver update shouldn’t be stuck on the Preparing to install screen anymore.

6. Manually install the driver

  1. Go to NVIDIA’s official website, choose the appropriate options to locate your driver, and then click on Search.driver
  2. Click on Download.download
  3. Again, click Download.download to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  4. Run the setup, and complete the driver installation.setup

If the previous solutions didn’t work, you could manually install the drivers from the official website. The process, though a bit intricate initially, shouldn’t be much of a hassle and will allow you to update the drivers seamlessly.

As an alternative, you can use an automatic tool that will successfully install or update any drivers on your PC much faster and completely securely.

7. Create a new user account

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type netplwiz in the text field, and hit Enter.netplwiz
  2. Click on Add.add to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  3. Select Sign in without a Microsoft account (not recommended).sign in
  4. Click on Local account.local account to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  5. Enter the username and password (not mandatory for Local Accounts), then click on Next.enter details
  6. Click Finish to create the user account.finish
  7. Select the account you just created and click Properties.properties
  8. Head to the Group Membership tab, select Administrator, and click OK to save the changes.set as administrator to fix geforce experience preparing to install
  9. Finally, sign in with the new user account, install the GeForce Experience app, and you should be able to install the latest drivers.

As a last resort, you can create a new user account to fix things if GeForce Experience is stuck on the Preparing to install screen due to a corrupt user profile. To transfer data between the previous and new account, you can use a reliable backup tool or USB storage device.

Once you have fixed the problem, check the best graphics settings for improved gaming in Windows.

This isn’t the only issue, and many reported that GeForce Experience driver download is stuck at 100%, but we have a guide that addresses that.

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

Windows 11 Mail App Showing HTML Code: How to Fix It

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

While using Windows mail, your emails could suddenly start showing as HTML code. When this happens, reading your emails becomes a bit problematic. If your Windows mail app displays HTML code on Windows 11, this article will provide steps to help you resolve the error.

Why is the Windows Mail app showing HTML code?

Here are some of the common reasons why the Windows Mail app is showing HTML code:

  • Third-party antivirus software – Sometimes, third-party antivirus software installed on your PC can cause the mail app to show HTML code.
  • Changing text format – If the sender of the mail changes the official text format before sending the mail, it can cause the mail app to show HTML code.
  • Corrupt Mail app – In some cases, a corrupt Mail application might cause received mails to display as HTML code. If that’s the case, you can try accessing Windows mail service from your web browser.
  • Problematic Windows update – If you noticed this error with the mail app after updating Windows, the update likely caused that problem, and you should uninstall it.

Now that we know what the probable causes are, let’s solve the problem by using the solutions below.

How do I fix the Mail app if it’s showing HTML code on Windows 11?

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

If those steps couldn’t resolve the error, here are a couple of advanced fixes you can try.

1. Repair the Mail application

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on Apps and select Installed apps.
  3. Locate the Mail and Calendar app from the list of apps, click on the More icon, and click on Advanced Options.
  4. Select Repair. If the repair option isn’t available, select Reset.
  5. Close the Settings app, restart your PC, and relaunch Windows Mail.

2. Disable the antivirus software

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type in Windows Security, and launch it.
  2. Navigate to the Virus & Threat Protection tab. Under the Virus and Threat Protection settings, select Manage Settings.
  3. In the next window, click on the toggle button to switch Real Time Protection to Off.

This will prevent Windows Defender from operating. Check if Windows Mail is displaying the messages correctly. If so, you should think about switching to a better antivirus for Windows 11 that doesn’t interfere with your apps.

In case you’re using a third-party antivirus, disable it from its menu and see if that changes how Windows Mail is displaying the messages.

3. Roll back the Windows update

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on Windows Update and select Update History.
  3. Select Uninstall Updates.
  4. Locate the most recently installed update from the list and click Uninstall to remove it.

If you noticed the HTML mail error after running a Windows update, rolling back the update is the best way to resolve the error. Here is a detailed guide showing the best ways to remove a Windows Update.

4. Access your email on your web browser

  1. Launch your preferred browser and go to the Outlook online email client.
  2. Sign-in with your credentials to read your received mails.

Accessing your email via your web browser isn’t a traditional fix but it’s one of the quickest ways to get around the HTML raw data error in Windows.

Of course, instead of using the Outlook web app, you may go directly to the website of your email provider like Gmail, ProtonMail, etc.

5. Reinstall Windows Mail

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on Apps and select Installed apps.
  3. Locate Windows Mail & Calendar in the list of applications, click on the tab, and select Uninstall.
  4. Wait for the app to be completely removed and close the Settings app.
  5. Press the Windows key + S, type in Microsoft Store, and hit Enter.
  6. Type in Mail and Calendar, from the search results, click Get in Store app and select Install.

Once the app is installed, sign into Windows Mail using your correct credentials. Reinstalling the Windows Mail app should revert the app to its default configurations.

Troubleshooting the HTML error in Windows Mail is pretty difficult. Usually, most users opt to access their email via their web browsers when they can’t resolve the error.

Our readers also encountered the email error code 0x80040b0b. If you’re one of them, read the highlighted guide for instructions.

If the issue persists, we recommend consulting our list of the best email clients for Windows 11 and selecting a better one.

If you’ve got alternative solutions that helped you fix the mail app showing HTML, you can let us know in the comments below.

Your IP Has Been Temporarily Blocked: 4 Ways to Unblock It

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

An IP block isn’t a prevalent error among Windows users, but getting your IP address blocked from accessing a website is possible. There are several reasons behind this block. Whatever the reason, we’ll provide you with the seven best ways to help you resolve the error. 

Why has my IP been temporarily blocked?

The error Your IP has been temporarily blocked is pretty rare, but when triggered, it can prevent you from accessing a particular website or service. Here are some of the common reasons for this problem:

  • Multiple Logins: Most websites with login pages have a limited number of login attempts you can make. If you’ve exceeded the limit, your IP might be temporarily blocked. This is to prevent hackers from brute-forcing the login page.
  • Insecure Connection: In rare cases, your IP might be temporarily blocked if you attempt to access a secure website using an insecure connection. 
  • Malicious Activity: You might trigger the error Your IP address has been blocked due to malicious activity if a website detects suspicious activities from your IP address. 
  • Country Ban: Online services like games, payment providers, and streaming websites often have location restrictions to prevent users from certain countries from accessing their websites. 
  • Port Scanning: Port scanning involves scanning through a server or a website to discover open ports. Hackers often utilize this method to carry out attacks, so if you attempted a port scan against a website, your IP might be temporarily blocked.

Now we know the reason behind this error, so let’s move on to the solutions to fix it.

What can I do if my IP has been temporarily blocked?

Before moving to more complicated solutions, let’s go through some simple quick methods that might clear the problem right away:

  • Reset your router and your PC. Sometimes, this simple tweak solves everything.
  • Make sure you installed all the latest OS updates.
  • Try to use another browser and check if the website or service is still blocking you.
  • Check the full message for the blockage. If you are blocked out from login attempts, that action might have a waiting period after which you can try again, so you need to wait.
  • Try to connect to a different hotspot if you’re blocked by the website using a Wi-Fi network.

If these quick workarounds didn’t fix the problem, review the solutions below.

1. Check if your IP address has been blacklisted

  1. Start your preferred browser, visit the WhatIsMyIPAddress website, and click the Check my IP address button.

After clicking the button, the website will provide you with a detailed report of data gathered on your IP address. It will show in the report if your IP has been banned.

In addition, most websites employ the services of publicly available IP address blacklists. These lists are compiled based on data from other websites and contain IP addresses of known spammers and hackers.

2. Change your DNS Server

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type in ncpa.cpl, and hit Enter.
  2. Then, right-click on your Internet connection, and select Properties.
  3. In the popup window, double-click on the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) tab.
  4. Now, select the option Use the following DNS server addresses, and Enter 1.1.1.1 as your Preferred DNS server, and 1.0.0.1 as your Alternate DNS server. 
  5. Click OK and exit the window, you should be able to bypass the IP block after resetting your DNS address.

Sometimes, an error with the DNS server can block your IP. Changing the DNS often is what to do when your IP address is blocked.

If you ever run into errors with your DNS server, here is a guide that provides you with fixes for the most common DNS issues.

3. Check for Malware

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type in Windows Security, and hit Enter.
  2. Now, select Virus & threat protection, then select Scan options.
  3. Then, choose Full scan and click Scan now.

Once the scan is completed, Windows Defender will provide you with a brief overview of your PC’s security. You can run a full system scan using third-party antivirus software to check your system for malware.

In case Windows Defender won’t scan, be sure to read our guide on how to fix the error.

4. Use a VPN

If your IP is temporarily blocked, one of the quickest ways to get around the block is to use a VPN client to access the website.

There are many free and paid VPNs available, which you can quickly fire up to help you bypass the IP block.

As an example, you can get a leading VPN tool with the strongest online encryption and IP obfuscation tools to stop IP blocking on your PC.

ExpressVPN is the top player in privacy and online data protection. It offers you over 3000 servers across the world in 94 countries.

You also have unrestricted access to any websites worldwide to navigate freely without getting blocked or banned.

ExpressVPN

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As a last resort, you may try contacting the webmaster of the website or service that blocked you and find out why your IP was banned.

Sometimes, webmasters can block a whole class of IPs willingly or by mistake, and just because your IP is in that class, you get blocked as well.

With the steps above, you should be able to resolve a temporarily blocked IP address. If you’ve got other solutions for getting around an IP block, you can let us know in the comments below.

How to Fix Update Error Code 0x80070070 on Windows 11

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Windows update problems are common in any Windows version, but that doesn’t make them less annoying. One of these errors is the 0x80070070, which informs users that they do not have sufficient space to complete the update.

If you have enough space but are still slapped with this error, we have come up with this article to help you bypass this Windows update error. Keep reading to find out how you can resolve it.

What does 0x80070070 failed to install mean?

The 0x80070070 error code is associated with a problem with your system’s installation. This problem can come from any number of causes, including a corrupt file, an incorrectly installed driver or software package, or even a hardware problem with your computer.

Users who encountered this error reported that their drive did not have sufficient space as they were trying to install Windows. If you have tried installing Windows 11 before, you already know the stringent system requirements.

Space is one of these; you must have or exceed at least 64 GB. That said, even users who had met these requirements were part of the group that encountered the 0x80070070 error. Some of the similar issues that stood out in these scenarios include:

  • Users were trying to install Windows from a DVD or USB drive
  • The error was common when trying to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11
  • Updating Windows would go through but fail in the middle with an error message that something went wrong

The major causes for this issue include:

  • Insufficient space – Other programs may be taking space in your PC, leaving no room for an update.
  • Corrupt system partition – The system partition is a part of your hard drive where all your programs are stored. If this partition becomes corrupted, it causes problems for the operating system.
  • The system partition is unavailable – The Windows installation cannot complete because of an error in the volume boot record. It can also be caused by a corrupted MBR (Master Boot Record).
  • Invalid partition table – The failure to install occurs because the operating system cannot find a valid partition table. 

How do I fix error code 0x80070070?

Before you embark on the slightly complex solutions, try the following:

  • Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements to install Windows 11.
  • Check for any system file errors by running the SFC scan.
  • Try restarting your PC.

1. Run the Windows update troubleshooter

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

2. Perform a Disk Cleanup

  1. Press the Windows key, type cleanmgr in the search bar, then click Open.
  2. The Disk Cleanup dialog box will show up. Select the drive that you wish to clean up, and click OK.
  3. Navigate to the Disk Cleanup tab in the Disk Cleanup dialog box, check the boxes for all file types you wish to delete, and click OK.
  4. Click Delete files and click OK in the confirmation box.

3. Remove partition quotas

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Disk Management.Disk Management
  2. Locate your Windows drive, right-click on it, and select Properties.
  3. Navigate to the Quota tab in the Properties dialog box that pops up, uncheck the Enable quota management box, then click on Apply and OK.
  4. Restart your PC.

If you’re using a quota partition, it’s possible that Windows is not able to update all the partitions on your system. This may occur if you have insufficient hard drive space. When the size of your quota partition reaches the limit, Windows does not have enough space to update the files on that partition.

4. Repartition the Windows hard drive

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Disk Management.Disk Management
  2. Locate your Windows drive, right-click on it, and select Shrink Volume.
  3. Go to the Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB entry and enter a new volume.
  4. Next, go back and right-click on your recovery drive to rename it.
  5. With the new unallocated space, right-click on it and select New Volume.
  6. Follow the on-screen prompts and try updating again to see if the error reoccurs.

5. Use the Media creation tool

  1. Navigate to your browser and Download Media Creation Tool.
  2. Click on Upgrade this PC now and wait for your PC’s system requirements to be verified.
  3. Stay put; your PC will restart multiple times until the installation is complete.

Hopefully, one of these methods has helped you bypass the Windows update error 0x80070070, and you can now update with no issues. Other update errors include 0x800f0831 and 0x80240023, so if you come across either, check out our detailed guides for more information.

Share any other method you tried not mentioned here but worked for you in the comment section below.

Xbox Free Play Days: Diablo III: Eternal Collection and more

Posted on by Robert Collins

Xbox Free Play Days is back for another weekend of games for Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. These games will be available for those subscribers to play from Thursday, March 2 through Sunday, March 5. Check out this week’s lineup below.

Diablo III: Eternal Collection

Generations of gamers have battled the demonic hordes of Diablo, and now it’s your turn to take part in the action-RPG legacy. This Eternal Collection features Diablo III, the Reaper of Souls expansion set and the Rise of the Necromancer pack—all together in one definitive volume. Prepare yourself, mortal hero. The hellgates are opening.

Train Life: A Railway Simulator

For the first time in a videogame, become the driver and the railway company manager with Train Life: A Railway Simulator! Drive your passengers or goods across 10 countries and learn to control your locomotive expertly, while following the railway signs and adapting to the weather conditions. Create your own company; buy and maintain your trains; hire conductors and give them new contracts; explore new routes; and optimize your Passenger and Freight activities!

Human Fall Flat

Human: Fall Flat is a hilarious, light-hearted platformer set in floating dreamscapes that can be played solo or with up to 8 players online. Each dream level provides a new environment to navigate, from mansions, castles and Aztec adventures, to snowy mountains, eerie nightscapes, and industrial locations. Free new levels keep its vibrant community rewarded.

Wrap up

What doyou think of this week’s Xbox Free Play Days games? Is there anything here that’s got you excited for the weekend? Tell us about it down in the comments. To learn more visit the Xbox Free Play Days FAQ page.

 

Microsoft reportedly won’t have to sell off parts of Activision to appease EU

Posted on by David Allen

Activision stocks have risen 1.8 percent in premarketing trading based on a Reuters report that the EU will not force Microsoft to sell assets to gain its merger approval.  Instead, Activision will likely use licensing deals to gain EU approval.

Microsoft recently met with UK antitrust regulators to discuss options for getting a deal approved.  The European Commission has added a short two-week extension to review the deal, moving the deadline to April 25th. Lawyers for both sides met with EU regulators last month to discuss if the deal raised too many anti-competitive concerns. It appears that last-minute licensing agreements with Nintendo and Nvidia may help get Microsoft the push it needs. Even with this bit of good news Microsoft still faces FTC hurdles in the US.

Microsoft continues to reiterate its plan to bring Call of Duty to as many as 150 million more gamers if they are allowed to close the deal.

Windows XP: The Ultimate Comparison Guide, Pros and Cons

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Windows XP has been around for a long time. It has been the most widely adopted operating system from Microsoft. Since its release in 2001, it has been updated several times. While it had its share of problems like any other OS, people still use it.

Some of the reasons include its simplicity, power, and flexibility. On the downside, Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft. The company stopped providing support because it was no longer able to provide security updates for it. Luckily, you can use optimization software to boost its performance.

What are the advantages of Windows XP?

Some of the reasons why Windows XP is still a fan-favorite include:

  • Better hardware support – With Windows XP, you can run many hardware devices designed for older versions of Windows, such as Windows 98. This includes devices such as scanners and printers that use parallel and serial ports, and are not supported in newer versions of Windows but are still widely used by older peripherals.
  • User-friendly interface – Windows XP has been around for two decades, meaning many people have used it during their careers. They’re familiar with its layout and functionality, making it easier for them to use without learning anything new.
  • Stability – Stable software is software that works consistently and reliably over time. The fact that Windows XP has been around since 2001 means that it has had more time to be tested and debugged than newer versions of Windows.
  • Efficiency – The system requirements for Windows XP are less than those for previous versions of the OS. This makes using Windows XP easier on older computers, allowing users to keep their old ones longer.
  • Graphics – One of the biggest advantages of Windows XP is that it can run on computers with less memory than previous versions of Windows. This means that even people with older PCs can use it.

What are the main features of Windows XP?

With all the changes made to Windows in recent years, one would wonder, What is the use of Microsoft XP? Windows XP is still being used by millions of people worldwide. It remains popular due to its wide adoption.

Organizations worldwide are still using it because they do not want to upgrade their systems for security reasons or compatibility issues caused by newer versions of Windows. 

1. Support for multiple users

Windows XP includes support for multiple users. Each user has a desktop or personal area to work in. This allows users to have their own settings, programs, and files. 

You can also allow guest accounts that do not require passwords so that people can use your computer without authorization.

2. Start menu 

This menu opens up when you click on the Windows logo in the bottom left corner of your desktop. When it’s open, you will see all your installed programs listed in alphabetical order so that it’s easy for you to find what you need quickly.

Users can also pin frequently used applications. The Start menu is also customizable, where users have the option to remove or add links.

3. Taskbar

This bar appears at the bottom of your screen and allows you to see which programs are running, what they’re doing, and how much memory they use. You can also open or close programs from here, as well as minimize, maximize, or restore them.

Another exciting feature is the Taskbar grouping which allows users to click one button and reveal an array of options for a particular program.

4. Media features

Windows XP has several media-related features, including Windows Media Player and Windows Movie Maker. The digital media player allows users to play audio files, view video files, and stream online video content. 

It also has a built-in library so users can organize their media collection easily. Windows Movie Maker lets users edit videos and create simple movies with ease. It also includes tools for adding music tracks and captions.

5. Parental controls

Parental controls allow you to restrict access to games, websites, and content based on ratings that you set up yourself. You can set time limits for when your kids can use their computer and what they can do with it while online or playing games. 

You can even lock down certain programs so they can’t be opened without your permission or control what sites they visit while surfing the web.

Why was Windows XP so good?

Here are a few reasons users liked Windows XP:

  • Fast performance: Windows XP was considered one of the fastest operating systems of the time, and it managed to hold the title for years.
  • Stability: The OS was fairly stable compared to the other iterations released previously by Microsoft, and provided support to a wide range of apps.
  • User-friendly interface: Windows XP had an extremely user-friendly interface, and most actions could be performed seamlessly and within seconds.

Is Windows XP still good to use?

You can still run Windows XP. But the OS lost support from Microsoft in 2014, so you wouldn’t be getting any security or feature updates, which puts the PC at a greater risk of being attacked by malware or virus.

Also, several applications might not run on Windows XP due to compatibility issues. Though if that doesn’t seem like a hassle and the OS is already installed, you can keep using Windows XP, at least for now.

What are the limitations of Windows XP?

  • It is not free – Windows XP costs money, so it may not be accessible to everyone. Compared to other iterations, users have been able to upgrade free of charge. 
  • Difficult upgrades – Windows XP is very difficult to upgrade from earlier versions of Windows. If you want to switch from, say Windows 98 to Windows XP, you’ll have to do a clean install that deletes all files on your hard drive.
  • Complex installation process – It can be difficult to set up a new PC with Windows XP. The installation process can take several hours and requires a CD or DVD drive to install from.
  • Security risks – Windows XP has known security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers to gain access to your computer system or data files stored on it. Luckily, you can secure your system with Windows XP antivirus software.
  • Limited RAM – The system memory only supports up to 4GB. You can either upgrade to Windows XP Professional at a cost or a newer Windows version.

Having explored all that Windows XP has to offer, it brings us to the age-old question: Which is better, Windows XP or Windows 10? The two operating systems are very different from each other, but they do share some similarities. 

Ultimately, there are a lot of trade-offs when it comes to upgrading to Windows 10. Some people will consider the upgrade, especially if they use a compatible computer, but others may not even bother. 

It all boils down to the activities you use your PC for. If you are doing basic stuff, then by all means, continue using Windows XP. This just means that you’ll have to take measures such as hiding your IP in Windows XP to minimize the security risks.

However, if you are looking to explore more modern features and overall enhanced performance, Windows 10 is. We also have a great guide on Windows XP Black Edition, so you might want to check it out before leaving.

We’d love to hear your stance on Windows XP and whether you’d consider using it in the comments section below.

How to Remove Recommended Documents in Office 365

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

The recommended files tab is one of the excellent features of Office 365. It attempts to suggest documents that you’re involved with. However, the feature takes up a lot of home space, and you’d eventually want to remove the recommended documents.

If you’d like to know how to remove such files, read through our guide; we provide the steps needed to remove recommended documents in Office 365.

What are recommended documents in Office 365?

Recommend documents are files automatically suggested to Office 365 users by Microsoft to give the user quick access to the documents.

Usually, recommended documents in Office 365 are generated through interactions with any of Microsoft’s cloud services like OneDrive and SharePoint. Also, Microsoft itemizes files stored on its cloud services and suggests them to Office 365 users as recommended documents.

Before a file can be suggested as a recommended document, a machine learning model scans documents in the organization’s store to suggest documents that are relevant to you. 

Further, each file displayed on the recommended documents tab in Office 365 is a document that Microsoft’s AI assumes you’ll need.

How can I remove Office 365 recommended documents?

1. Disable recent documents

  1. Open Microsoft Word.
  2. Click on the File menu and select Options.
  3. Now, choose the Advanced tab.
  4. Scroll down until you find the Display section and change the Recent Documents to 0.
  5. Now, when you open Word, you will not see any recommended documents.

We have shown you how to do this in Word, but the method works on all Office 365 apps.

2. Remove the recommended documents manually

  1. Launch any Office 365 application e.g., Microsoft Word or Excel.
  2. In the pop-up window, hover over the file you intend to remove.
  3. Then click on the More Options button and select Remove from the list.

Once done, Windows will automatically replace the file with the next best-recommended document.

Alternatively, instead of removing just a single file from the recommended documents section, you can collapse the entire Recommended section in Office 365.

3. Collapse the entire Recommended section

  1. Launch your preferred Office 365 application.
  2. Then, click on the arrow in the left pane of the Recommended for You section.

After clicking the arrow, you’ll completely minimize the Recommended Documents tab. If you click it again, it’ll expand the tab and display recommended documents.

Removing a file from the recommended documents list doesn’t delete the file from your computer. It simply removes it from the recommended documents tab.

Removing Office 365 documents doesn’t require any technical know-how or complex troubleshooting. With a few easy steps, you can remove any recommended documents in Office 365.

Besides, if you want, deleting Microsoft 365 documents is just as easy and helps clear significant space on the PC.

If you ever run into errors while using Office 365, here are a couple of fixes for common Microsoft 365 errors.

Removing a file from the recommended documents list doesn’t delete the file from your computer. It simply removes it from the recommended documents tab.

Firestick Error Message: 5 Ways to Fix it

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The major downside to the Amazon Fire Stick is its sheer number of error messages users have complained about. One of the prominent error messages is the Unknown error has occurred on Fire Stick, which makes it impossible to perform some tasks on the device.

Amazon Fire Stick is a media streaming device that allows users to stream media content such as videos and music and install apps. It runs on the Android operating system, which makes it accessible on TV.

Furthermore, many factors, such as internet connection issues and outdated software, may cause an unexpected error message on the Fire Stick. The error message indicates a problem with Fire Stick completing the task or process.

However, we’ll take you through the causes and how to fix Fire Stick’s unexpected error has occurred.

Why does Firestick keep saying an unknown error has occurred?

  • Network connection issues: Fire Stick may run into errors if your network connection is poor or unstable. The device requires a stable internet connection to load videos and perform other tasks like downloading. Likewise, users complain about encountering issues with a cable network connection. So, the error may occur if you connect to a LAN network. It can prompt download issues such as an unknown downloader error – check your URL and connection. In seven easy ways, you can check our article about how to fix Fire Stick if it won’t connect to Wi-Fi. And if you’re looking for quick ways to fix Firestick, which may say the network is disconnected when the Internet is working, rest assured that we have a detailed guide in this regard as well.
  • Startup errors: Fire Stick may encounter difficulties if there’s a startup error. It means the device can’t function due to boot errors.
  • Outdated Firestick software: An outdated Fire Stick software can cause problems with its work. In this case, the device lacks updates and patches to help fix bug issues in the previous version.

However, there are some other causes, but we’ve highlighted the major ones above. For further understanding of the causes, users can read our guide on fixing common Amazon Fire Stick errors.

How do I fix an unknown error that has occurred on Fire Stick?

1. Check your network connection

  1. Unplug the router from the power source, and leave it for some minutes.
  2. Plug it back in and turn it on.

An easy way to fix your network connection issues is by performing a power cycle on your router. It will help you connect faster and more smoothly.

Also, we recommend you switch to a wireless connection if you’re having issues with a cable connection.

Users may read through our guide on resolving Amazon Fire Stick no signal errors for more information about network issues.

2. Restart your Fire Stick

Restarting the Fire Stick can fix any startup issues that may prompt the unknown error message and other errors.

Hence, press the Select and Play button on the remote simultaneously for 10-13 seconds to restart the Fire Stick. After the restart, check and see if the error persists.

3. Update your Fire Stick

  1. Select Settings on your Fire TV.
  2. Select My Fire TV and go to the About option.
  3. Choose Install Update. (The device will check for available updates and install them)

4. Update your system OS (for users streaming on their laptops)

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Click on Settings and select the Windows update option.
  3. On the Windows update page, select Check for updates. (If there’s an update available, Windows will automatically search for it and install it)

5. Restore the Fire Stick to factory settings

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Select My Fire TV.
  3. Select Reset to Factory Defaults.

Resetting the Firestick to factory default should be the last option as it clears all your downloads and saved data.

How do I check my URL connection on my Fire Stick?

  1. From the main Fire TV menu, navigate to Settings.
  2. Click on the Network option.
  3. On your Fire Stick remote control, press the Play/Pause button at the center of the remote to prompt the Connection Status page.

Here, you can check your URL connection. Nevertheless, go through our comprehensive guide about how to fix Amazon Fire TV if it doesn’t open browser links.

If this article has been helpful, kindly leave your comments and suggestions below. We’d like to hear from you.

DirectX Encountered an Unrecoverable Error: 4 Steps to Fix

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Some Call of Duty fanatics has encountered a DirectX unrecoverable error when they launch their games in Windows.

When that occurs, the game doesn’t start and returns this message: DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error, check the readme for possible solutions.

DirectX is a series of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) essential for multimedia software. The latest DirectX versions ensure better graphics quality for Windows games.

The issue is more frequent for COD titles but might also occur when starting other Windows games. So let’s quickly go through some common scenarios.

Why am I getting DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error message?

You could encounter DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error message for multiple reasons. Some of the common causes are listed below.

  • Faulty hardware could result in this error.
  • There are some bugs or glitches present in the game.
  • The system drivers aren’t up to date.
  • You aren’t running the latest available or compatible version of DirectX.
  • Your PC isn’t installed with the latest update.
  • Your PC doesn’t meet the software requirements for COD Warzone.
  • There are some problems with your internet connection.

Where can the unrecoverable error be found, and what does it look like?

  • DEV error 6066 DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error (others various can include DEV error 6068, DEV error 6071, or DEV error 5761)
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error Dxgi_error_device_removed
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error Warzone
  • Call of Duty WW2 DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error in Modern Warfare
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error Plutonium
  • Black Ops 2 DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error Fivem
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error Vanguard
  • Recursive error DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error
  • DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error in Windows 7

If you have a game returning the DirectX unrecoverable error, this is how you can resolve the issue to get it up and running.

How can I fix DirectX unrecoverable error in Windows 10?

1. Reinstall the graphics card driver

  1. Press Win + R to open Run.
  2. Type dxdiag to open the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.
  3. Note down the graphics card and manufacturer details included in the display tab.
    fix directx unrecoverable error
  4. Note down the 32 or 64-bit OS.
    fix directx unrecoverable error
  5. Open the video card manufacturer’s website, and click on the drivers or download center hyperlink. Then, enter your graphics card in the search box.
  6. Select to download the most updated video card driver that’s compatible with your Windows platform.
  7. Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager.
    fix directx unrecoverable error
  8. Expand the Display adapters section and right-click your listed graphics card to open its context menu.
  9. Select the Uninstall device option on the context menu.
  10. Check the Delete the driver settings for this device checkbox, and then press the Uninstall button.
  11. Restart the Windows OS.
  12. Click Cancel if a prompt window opens for detecting the graphics card driver.
  13. Then install the downloaded graphics card driver by selecting its installer in File Explorer. You might also need to extract the zip folder first.

1.1 Update drivers automatically

Downloading drivers manually is a process that carries the risk of getting the wrong driver installed, which may lead to severe malfunctions in your system.

The safer and easier way to update drivers on a Windows computer is by using an automatic tool such as Fortect Driver Updater. This tool automatically identifies each device on your computer and matches it with the latest driver versions from an extensive online database.

Drivers can then be updated in batches or one at a time without requiring the user to make complex decisions. You can also schedule regular scans and automatic updates, so you won’t have to check on your drivers manually.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

2. Check the game’s DirectX system requirements

  1. Open the game’s Steam page.
  2. The DirectX system requirement for the game is listed at the bottom of the Steam page. Click a system requirement page link on a publisher’s website.
    fix directx unrecoverable error
  3. Press the Win + R to open Run.
  4. Enter dxdiag in the text box and press OK.
  5. Check the DirectX version listed.

The DirectX unrecoverable error will probably occur if your DirectX version doesn’t meet the minimum DX system requirements for a game.

You may or may not be able to update DirectX, but much depends on your Windows platform. For example, only Windows 10 currently supports DirectX 12.

Nevertheless, Microsoft has the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer, with which you can update more outdated DX versions.

Aside from that, you might have to upgrade your Windows OS to get the latest DirectX. You can also ensure you have the latest DirectX version for a platform by updating Windows.

The Windows updates will usually automatically update DirectX if there’s a more recent version, so make sure your Windows Update service isn’t switched off.

3. Configure the Display Scaling

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Display Settings.
    fix directx unrecoverable error
  2. Click Custom scaling to enter a custom DPI scale value.
    fix directx unrecoverable error
  3. Enter 100 in the text box if that isn’t your current DPI scale value, and click the Apply button.
  4. Then click Sign out to apply the custom scale factor.
  5. In Windows 8, drag the DPI scaling bar’s slider to the left.

4. Edit the Registry

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type Regedit and press OK.regedit
  3. Navigate to this registry location: ComputerHKEY_CLASSES_ROOTPROTOCOLSFiltertext/xml
  4. Click File.
  5. Select Export, enter a file title and click Save to back up the selected registry branch.
  6. Right-click text/XML, select the Delete option, and press the Yes button to confirm.
  7. Close the Registry Editor.

How do I fix the DirectX encountered an unrecoverable error on Windows 11?

While the above solutions are also applicable for a Windows 11 PC, we have a dedicated guide for Windows 11 users to help them resolve the DirectX errors on their PCs.

You can check out our guide on 8 Methods you can use to Fix DirectX Errors on Windows 11 and apply the solutions, one by one, to resolve the error.

Why do I keep getting DirectX errors?

You will keep receiving DirectX errors because of the below-mentioned reasons.

  • Unexpected bugs in the game.
  • Corrupt game files.
  • Outdated system drivers.
  • Outdated DirectX.
  • Your PC doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for the game.
  • Third-party apps are conflicting.
  • Your Firewall is blocking the game.

Those are a few potential fixes that might resolve the DirectX unrecoverable error. We also have an article that will provide different resolutions for DirectX issues.

DirectX issues can affect various games, and recently we wrote about Wuthering Waves Fatal error on line 125 which is caused by DirectX.

If you have any further fixes for the DX unrecoverable error, please share them below.

Battlefield 3 Not Launching on Windows 10: 7 Fixes to Use

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Battlefield 3 is one of the popular FPS (First Person Shooter) games published by EA and is available for the Windows, Xbox, and PlayStation ecosystems. However, many who downloaded it reported that Battlefield 3 is not launching on Windows 10.

While stuttering in games has long been a problem, Battlefield 3 not launching from Steam or other gaming clients puts users in a pickle. So, let’s find out about the problem and walk you through the effective fixes.

Why Battlefield 3 won’t start on Windows 10?

Here are a few reasons you might be experiencing the problem:

  • Minimum system requirement not met: The first thing you must check when the game won’t launch or Battlefield 3 menu is not showing is whether the computer matches the system requirements for Battlefields 3. Though very minimal, these can still be a problem for some.
  • Outdated graphics driver: An outdated driver, especially one for the graphics adapter, can lead to issues while running games.
  • Corrupt game files: When unable to launch a game, there’s a high likelihood that a part of the game files is corrupt or missing.

What can I do if Battlefield 3 is not launching on Windows 10?

Before we start with the slightly complex changes, here are a few quick tricks that might work:

  • Change the auto-generated username to something simpler.
  • Switch to another browser, say Opera GX, Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
  • Launch Battlefield 3 from Origin
  • Reset the password when logging into Battlelog. This is a recent bug, and until a patch is released, try changing the password every time you log in.
  • Make sure you have installed Origin on the boot drive, usually the C: drive.
  • In case you are facing issues joining a server, check for slow Internet speed.

If none work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Set the game and client to run as administrator

  1. Locate the Battlefield 3 launcher, right-click on it, and select Properties.properties
  2. Head to the Compatibility tab, tick the checkbox for Run this program as an administrator, and then click OK to save the changes.run this program as an administrator to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10
  3. Make similar changes to the Origin launcher as well.origin

Once done, verify whether Battlefield 3 is still not launching on Windows 10. If that’s the case, head to the next solution.

2. Delete files

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, paste the following path in the address bar, and hit Enter:C:\ProgramData\Electronic Arts\EA Services\Licensepath
  2. If it doesn’t open, enable hidden files in Windows.
  3. Now, press Ctrl + A to select all the files and then hit the Delete key.

You should now be able to launch Battlefield 3 on Windows 10 without it being stuck.

3. Run in compatibility mode

  1. Right-click on the game launcher and select Properties.properties
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab, tick the checkbox for Run this program in compatibility mode for, select a previous iteration of Windows from the dropdown menu, and click OK to save the changes.run in compatibility mode to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10

A quick fix when Battlefield 3 is not launching on Windows 10 is to run the game in compatibility mode. Remember, you might have to try a few iterations before things start working.

4. Update the drivers

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.devmgmt.msc
  2. Expand Display adapters, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.update driver to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10
  3. Now, select Search automatically for drivers and let Windows find and install the best one.search automatically for drivers

Drivers play a vital role on the PC, and the graphics driver is all the more important when it comes to gaming. So, make sure you update the graphics driver. In case the OS can’t find one, go ahead and manually install the driver.

Clearing disk space, updating drivers, and repairing corrupted files can help you fix issues like BattleField 1 error code 1; read this guide to learn more.

4.1 Update Drivers Automatically

Downloading drivers manually is a process that carries the risk of getting the wrong driver installed, which may lead to serious malfunctions in your  PC. Thus, we recommend an alternative tool that will do it for you.

The safer and easier way to update drivers on a Windows computer is by using an automatic tool such as Outbyte Driver Updater. The took is an internationally recognized software, and it’s safe (tested on Virus Total).

Here’s how to update the drivers automatically:

  1. Download Outbyte Driver Updater
  2. Launch the program
    • There is no setup process beforehand since Outbyte Driver Updater is completely portable
  3. Outbyte Driver Updater will proceed to scan your PC for missing broken or outdated drivers
  4. Choose which drivers to update or repair
  5. Wait while Outbyte Driver Updater deals with your drivers
  6. Restart your PC

Keeping the system drivers up to date can also help you fix issues like can’t connect to a server, read this guide to learn more.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Keep your PC drivers updated and never worry about issues while g playing Battlefield thanks to Outbyte Driver Updater!
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Disclaimer: Some features of this tool are not free.

5. Change Battlelog settings

  1. Sign in to Battlelog, click on the profile icon, and choose Settings.battlelog
  2. Under the General tab, disable the Use plugin-free game launching option, and save the changes.disable to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10

If BF3 is not launching from Battlelog, these changes should help get things running.

Tip icon Tip
If you’re having FPS issues, lags, and slowdowns while playing, we recommend you download GameFire 6 Pro (free). It will focus your computer resources and processes on the game without overclocking your hardware.

6. Repair game files

6.1 Origin

  1. Launch Origin and go to the My Game Library section.my library
  2. Right-click on Battlefield 3, and select Repair from the context menu.repair to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10
  3. Wait for the repair process to complete, and then try playing the game.wait

6.2 Steam

  1. Launch Steam, go to Library, right-click on Battlefield 3, and select Properties.steam
  2. Head to the Local Files tab, and click on Verify the integrity of game files.verify integrity of game files to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10
  3. Wait for the process to complete.process

Oftentimes, the game files undergo some corruption, or the critical ones go missing, and, as a result, Battlefield 3 is not launching on Windows 10. Both Steam and Origin offer built-in file repair tools, so you should be able to get rid of the problem in no time.

7. Run Battlefield 3 in Windowed mode

  1. Right-click on the Battlefield 3 shortcut and select Properties.properties
  2. In the Target text field, paste the following while replacing both xxxx with the display resolution on your PC:-noborder -width xxxx -height xxxxwindowed mode to fix battlefield 3 not launching windows 10
  3. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.save changes

That’s it! If the previous solutions didn’t work, this should help get things up and running if Battlefield 3 was not launching on Windows 10.

Also, before you leave, do not forget to check some easy tips to boost Windows’ gaming performance.

For any other queries or to share a solution not listed here, comment below.

10 Best ChatGPT Browser Extensions to Use Today

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Since the launch of AI-powered tools, people have begun to look for the best ChatGPT browser extension for their needs.

If you’ve been searching for the best ChatGPT browser, you’re in the right place, as we’ve gathered some of the ChatGPT browser extensions that have earned some reputation among users.

What are the best ChatGPT browser extensions to use?

ChatGPT for Google – Quick and easy to add

ChatGPT for Google

ChatGPT for Google, as its name implies, is a browser extension that displays ChatGPT’s responses alongside Google search results.

Unlike the normal AI ChatGPT, which is restricted to a single browser tab that must be left open at all times, ChatGPT for Google solves this problem by enabling users to use the bot across multiple tabs.

To set up ChatGPT for Google, you only need to log in to OpenAI using the extension, and it’ll be ready for use.

Below are some of the features attributed to this browser extension:

  • Displays ChatGPT responses with Google search results
  • Makes ChatGPT accessible across multiple tabs
  • Does not require any particular prompts to launch
  • Provides swift responses
  • Can write code

⇒ Get ChatGPT for Google 

Merlin – OpenAI ChatGPT Powered Assistant – For any webpage

Merlin - OpenAI ChatGPT Powered Assistant

Similar to the ChatGPT for Google extension, but better, is Merlin – OpenAI ChatGPT Powered Assistant which works across the entire browser on any webpage instead of just the search engine.

Merlin is also known for its rapid and instant response to any query. Once you enter a query like you would on ChatGPT, Merlin will give a reply within seconds. Hence, Merlin is up to the task if you need a quick reply to a work email or a quick HTML code.

Moreover, the Merlin browser extension can be enabled by pressing the CTRL (CMD on Mac) + M keyboard shortcut in the browser. Below are some of the features attributed to this browser extension:

  • Works across the entire browser
  • Quick response to work
  • Merlin ChatGPT browser extension can be opened through CMD

⇒ Get Merlin – OpenAI ChatGPT Powered Assistant

WebChatGPT – Better responses

WebChatGPT

The WebChatGPT extension allows users to augment their ChatGPT prompts with relevant web results. After entering a prompt, the extension lets ChatGPT search the web for appropriate links.

Since ChatGPT does not have access to the most recent information available on the Internet beyond 2021 data, the answers for anything that occurred after that date are out of date. WebChatGPT helps to overcome this limitation.

Additionally, there are a variety of filters available, including time, region, and the number of results. You can even deactivate the extension using the toggle to get native ChatGPT functionality back.

Features include:

  • Access to the latest information on the Internet
  • Adds relevant web results
  • Availability of a variety of filters, and so forth

⇒ Get WebChatGPT

ChatGPT for Search Engines – Great for all search engines

ChatGPT for Search Engines

ChatGPT for Search Engines lets users view ChatGPT responses on popular search engines like Bing, Google, and DuckDuckGo.

As a Bing user, instead of using either of the two extensions above (ChatGPT for Google or WebChatGPT), you’ll prefer this one. It will enable you to get direct results from ChatGPT using multiple search engines for the query you entered in the search bar in a small window on the right.  

Additionally, you may use a context menu item to highlight any text on a website and submit it immediately to ChatGPT as a question. Alternatively, you can access ChatGPT on any website using the extension pop-up menu.  

Features include:

  • Get direct results from popular search engines
  • Directly search any highlighted text
  • Launch ChatGPT by ending a query with a question mark (?)

⇒ Get ChatGPT for Search Engines

ChatGPT Everywhere – Universal features

ChatGPT Everywhere

Unlike ChatGPT, which can only be used in a separate browser tab, or you’ll have to navigate to the AI address of anything you want before you can interact with it, ChatGPT Everywhere is unique.

With this extension, you can access the AI bot (almost) everywhere, as its name implies, on all the websites and even during Google Search.

However, unlike ChatGPT’s user interface, previous inquiries and responses are not saved while using it in the extension window; instead, asking a new question will erase the previous one.

Features include:

  • Access to AI bot on all websites and during Google Search
  • Does not keep records of previous queries

⇒ Get ChatGPT Everywhere

YouTube Summary with ChatGPT – Perfect for YouTube

YouTube Summary with ChatGPT

With the YouTube Summary, you no longer have to sit through incredibly long YouTube films that can bore you. Once the extension is installed you’ll see a transcript box on the right, which contains the video’s transcript summary.

But here’s the catch: Simply clicking the View AI Summary button will launch ChatGPT in a new tab without requiring any further action on your part. Then, the extension will paste the entire video transcript, which will load automatically in the chatbot and provide a quick summary of the entire video.

The AI chatbot’s level of accuracy varies, but this extension generally works well for videos as long as the audio is clear. Due to its ability to save time, YouTube Summary may be one of the top ChatGPT Chrome extensions.

Features include:

  • Provides a quick summary of videos of any length
  • Time-saving

⇒ Get YouTube Summary

ChatGPT Writer – Ideal for composing messages

This extension brings ChatGPT’s wordsmithing skills to your browser. The primary goal of ChatGPT Writer is to compose emails and messages for all websites.

Simply log into OpenAI to use the extension, which operates independently. It’ll then request a context-filled input that specifies the subject of the email or message.

The extension responds almost instantly after receiving the prompt. Although the extension is designed for emails and texts, you may also use it to converse with ChatGPT.

Features include:

  • Composes emails and messages on all websites
  • The ChatGPT utilizes a context-filled input to compose emails and texts
  • Provides swift responses

⇒ Get ChatGPT Writer 

tweetGPT – Great for automatic answering

tweetGPT 

An AI chatbot called tweetGPT can be used to tweet anything or to respond to other people’s questions intelligibly. But this extension eliminates the need to enter ChatGPT, copy the tweet text, and paste the reply.

Twitter users can use ChatGPT directly with the tweetGPT Chrome extension.

tweetGPT can be used in various moods, including humorous, sarcastic, optimistic, smart, and even hillbilly. You can have ChatGPT create the tweet for you by clicking on any of these.

Features include:

  • Chrome extension integrates ChatGPT right into Twitter
  • tweetGPT supports a variety of moods
  • Autogenerate tweets fit each of the available moods

⇒ Get tweetGPT Chrome Extension 

Promptheus – Added voice input

Promptheus is a ChatGPT Chrome extension that adds a useful feature to the AI chatbot.

This Chrome extension enables ChatGPT to receive mic input. Promptheus successfully turns the chatbot into a useful voice assistant like Siri.

The Promptheus extension floats on the right side of the ChatGPT conversation window, out of the way.

Features include:

  • Ability to receive mic input to ChatGPT
  • Effectively converts the chatbot to a voice assistant

⇒ Get Promptheus 

Summarize – Simplifies copy/paste

Besides the YouTube extension for getting the transcript summary of videos, Summarize makes it easy to quickly generate summaries for lengthy content without having to leave the website or deal with tedious copy/paste work.

Moreover, you don’t have to go to the ChatGPT website to use the extension since it is already built into Chrome.

Features include:

  • Can provide a summary of lengthy texts
  • The extension is integrated into Chrome

⇒ Get Summarize 

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is a sophisticated machine learning model that can accurately perform natural language generation (NLG) tasks.

In simple terms, the website is a simple online artificial intelligence chatbot created by OpenAI in December 2022. It can provide users with fact-based answers to questions or requests.

The following are some of the potential features to look out for in ChatGPT:

  • Provides answers to questions
  • Completes a given text or a phrase
  • Writes fiction and non-fiction content from prompts
  • Generates computer code
  • Translates text from one language to another, and so forth

You should also know that there are many ChatGPT alternatives out there that you may try.

After the advent of ChatGPT alternatives, ChatGPT has widened its tentacles to do much more than respond to your queries on a web browser. Now, several ChatGPT browser extensions have surfaced to benefit users.

And that’s it on the best ChatGPT browser extension for use today. If you want to know what ChatGPT Professional is and why you need it, you can explore our article to learn about it. It comes in handy when ChatGPT has an internal server error.

Also, for users anxiously asking why is my ChatGPT not working, we have provided some fixes for this error in our guide. You can check it out.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please use the comments section below.

Raspberry pi 3 not Booting Red Light: Fix in 4 Steps

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

If you are reading this article, you are most likely experiencing Raspberry Pi boot issues. Your Raspberry Pi can stop booting or refuse to turn on due to several reasons. The device may be experiencing power issues, SD card issues. the operating system is not properly installed and other hardware issues.

In this article, we explore a few troubleshooting steps to help you fix the Raspberry Pi not booting issues. Follow the steps one by one to get your device up and running.

What to do if Raspberry Pi 3 or 4 is not booting?

1. Check for power issues

Raspberry Pi not booting

  1. The newer version of Raspberry Pi, like the Pi 4, comes with a USB Type C connection, unlike the older version RPis that use smaller capacity power adapters.
  2. Make sure the device is getting adequate power supply through the official 5.1V 3A PSU.
  3. You can check the requirements section of your device’s instruction manual to find a PSU that can supply adequate power.
  4. Avoid using your smartphone or tablet charger with the newer version of Raspberry Pi.
  5. You may also want to check your power cable. Sometimes, the power cable may not work with a Pi.

Check if the OS is installed.

  1. Needless to say, the Raspberry Pi won’t boot unless an operating system is installed on the SD card that is connected to the device.
  2. You can install Ubuntu on the SD card to boot up your device.
  3. You can also install Raspbian to get the Pi up and running and then choose Ubuntu or other distros of your choice to install.

2. Check for SD card issues

Raspberry Pi not booting
Most of the time (If not all), the Raspberry Pi booting issues are associated with a faulty or corrupt SD card. When the expensive cards are not necessarily better than the cheap SD cards as they tend to fail as well but are usually considered more reliable.

Eject the SD card and insert it into your Windows computer to see if the computer detects the card. Windows will prompt to scan and fix the card if it detects any issues with it. Click on Scan and fix the error option to repair the card.

If Windows fails to repair the card, use the dosfsck tool using a Ubuntu running computer to repair the card. If the issue persists, you may have to format the card and reinstall the OS to make it work. In case the formatting fails, you may need to replace the SD card.

Check the Raspberry Pi’s LED indicators. 

Raspberry Pi not booting
If you are still not sure of the card being corrupt, your Raspberry Pi can help. The device comes with a built-in Red and Green LEDs. While the Red LED indicates the PWR status, which is the power status,  the Green LED indicates ACT that is the activity status of your SD card.

If the SD card is not faulty, the green LED will flash without any issues. However, if the Green LED is not on, it means there is an issue with your SD card. The SD card again may require repair, reformatting, or replacement, depending on the situation.

You can try the SD card formatting utility to reformat the storage. Also, consider reading our how to fix a corrupted SD card on Raspberry Pi for detailed troubleshooting steps.

Raspberry Pi kits for RetroPie and gaming [2020 Guide]

3. Check for issues with the HDMI cable

Raspberry Pi not booting
The Raspberry Pi comes with an HDMI port that is used to connect the computer to a display like a TV or a monitor. If Red and Green indicators are working on the Pi, make sure the HDMI cable is working as well.

If the HDMI cable is working, try forcing the HDMI detection by editing the config file. Here’s how to do it.

  1. Insert the SD card into your computer and navigate to the following location:
    /boot/ partition
  2. Open the config.txt file.
  3. Add the following line to the end of the file:
    hdmi_force_hotplug=1
  4. Save the file and eject the SD card.
  5. Reinsert the SD card and try booting your Raspberry Pi again to see if the issue is resolved.

4. Check if your Raspberry Pi is DoA

Remove term: Raspberry Pi errors Raspberry Pi errors

  1. Disconnect all the cables and other accessories connected to the faulty Pi.
  2. Connect the cable and insert the SD card into a different Raspberry Pi device that you own.
  3. Try to power on the device.
  4. Should the device work without any issues, your Raspberry Pi device can be faulty and may require replacement.
  5. If the issue occurs on the secondary Pi as well, try replacing the HDMI or Power cable or the SD card to see if that resolves the issue.

If you are using a Raspberry Pi A, A+, and Zero device, you can connect it to your Windows computer and open the device to manage to see if Windows detects the connected device. You can connect the Pi to your Windows computer using a USB cable.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do other than ask for a replacement if the Pi has hardware issues. So, follow the steps in the article to diagnose the Raspberry Pi not booting issue and hope it is the usual suspect (SD card) that is causing the issue.

How to Improve Sound Quality on Windows 11: 6 Must-try Tips

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Some of our readers have recently complained about some Windows 11 audio issues of which how to improve sound quality on Windows 11 PC is one of the major concerns.

If you’re experiencing similar problems, you don’t have to worry as this article will provide you with simplified steps on how to improve sound quality on Windows 11.

What is the best audio format for sound quality on Windows 11?

If you’re looking for the best digital audio format for audio listening, that would be the WAVE or WAV format.

It is an uncompressed format that captures all the sound frequencies and allows high bit rates, but one song can occupy tens to hundreds of megabytes.

In contrast, MP3, for instance, is a highly compressed format designed for portability and low space allocation and doesn’t preserve all the frequencies.

If you’re asking for sound technologies, at present, two popular sound formats also allow the spatiality of sound: Dolby Access and DTS Sound Unbound.

We highlighted the two apps so you can download them from Microsoft Store. However, you should keep in mind that the quality of the sound depends on the output quality of your sound card and the performance of the onboard or connected speakers.

How can I improve sound quality on Windows 11?

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

  • Check to make sure that your sound devices are properly connected. Make sure its cable connection isn’t loose.
  • Try plugging USB sound devices into alternative USB ports on your desktop or laptop.
  • You can also run Windows audio troubleshooter to scan and repair your audio devices.
  • You should also check and test your microphone to ensure it is working.

Having confirmed the above checks, if the problem persists, you can explore the advanced solutions provided in this article as suit:

1. Enable the Audio Enhancement feature

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Sound from the System tab.
  3. In the Output section, click on your audio device (speaker or headphones).
  4. In the drop-down menu, scroll down to the Output settings section, then toggle the switch for Enhance audio and set it to On.

You should be able to notice some immediate changes in the quality of your audio if you are currently playing one.

Learn how to improve sound clarity on Windows 11 by enabling the Enhance audio feature and reviewing a complete breakdown of the setting in this detailed Enhance audio guide.

2. Configure the Audio Quality of your Input Device (Mic)

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Sound under the System tab.
  3. Scroll down to the Input section, and click on your input device (here, you can adjust the input volume, change format quality, and test your microphone). 
  4. Click on Start test and then talk at your normal volume for a few seconds.
  5. Click on Stop test to view the result.
  6. Next, click on your Microphone to open its properties.
  7. Scroll down and toggle the switch for Enhance audio and set it to On.

Now that you can hear the playback through your headphones, you can chat normally. Uncheck Listen to this device if you’re okay with the outcome, then click Apply to save the changes.

3. Use third-party audio boosters

As we mentioned at the start of this article, the sound quality is limited by the sound equipment you’re using.

However, we have a list of sound-enhancing software that can boost the quality of sound on your devices. You can take a look at our selection and test the apps.

On the other hand, there is a sleek program you can try to get a skyrocket sound improvement and change the sound quality on your Windows 11 device.

Boom3D is an audio 3D surround software used by professionals or regular users that needs to boost their sound regardless of the device, headphones, or any equipment you use.

It comes with 31-band equalizer presets, volume booster, or cinematic full sound that can immerse you into the movies or songs you love the most.

Boom3D

Consider this refined sound enhancement tool to finally get that stunning sound experience.
Check price Visit website

4. Restart Windows Audio services

  1. Right-click the Start button in the bottom left corner of the screen and select Run. Type services.msc and then hit Enter on your keyboard.
  2. Locate the Windows Audio entry by scrolling down. Then, right-click it and choose Restart.
  3. Right-click it again and choose Properties from the drop-down menu.
  4. Next, click the Startup Type menu and change the entry to Automatic.
  5. To finish, click Apply and then OK.
  6. Now, go to Windows Audio Endpoint Builder and repeat the process.

Restarting your Windows Audio Services should help to improve the quality of your audio. But if the problem persists, try the next fix.

5. Tweak the Audio Settings in Control Panel

  1. Open the Windows Control Panel and click on Sound. (Make sure you select Large icons as the View By option.)
  2. Right-click the Speakers selection in the Playback tab and click on Enable.
  3. Right-click it again and select Set as Communications Device.
  4. Select Properties by right-clicking on Speakers one more time.
  5. Drag the slider to the highest value on the Levels tab.
  6. Next, go to Advanced and check off the box next to Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device.
  7. You can now restart your computer and check if your audio works.

Your PC’s sound quality should be improved on Windows 11 after following the above steps. However, you can explore our detailed guide on how to fix your PC sound volume if it is too low for additional information on how to improve sound quality on Windows 11.

6. Reinstall your Audio Drivers

  1. Press the Windows + X keys to open a shortcut menu and select Device Manager from the menu.
  2. Expand the controllers for Sound, video, and game. Right-click your PC’s audio drivers and click on Properties.
  3. In the new window, select Driver and click on Uninstall Device to uninstall the drivers.
  4. Restart your computer, and Windows 11 will automatically reinstall the driver.

The outdated sound drivers may be the reason behind the poor sound quality on Windows 11. Whether you use the Intel High Definition Driver or other audio drivers, keeping them in check is key.

If you want an easier and more efficient method, you can try dedicated software to proceed with this action automatically.

And that’s how to improve sound quality on Windows 11 PC. You can also explore our detailed solutions provided on how to improve sound quality on Windows 10 PC, hopefully, you’ll find additional information which may be useful for you.

If you have further questions or suggestions on improving sound quality on Windows 11 PC, please do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

Fix: Our Servers Cannot Process Madden

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Our servers cannot process your request at this time. Please try again later error may appear when trying to play specific modes in Madden 23. However, it is a standard error and can be fixed in no time.

This guide will walk you through some simple workarounds to fix this error right after explaining the reasons for its occurrence.

Why does Madden 22 keep saying Our servers cannot process your request at this time?

There could be several reasons why Maden 22 is coming up with this error message. We have listed some of the popular ones here:

  • Server maintenance or outages – If the servers are down for maintenance or have any outages, you might receive this error. Please wait until the servers are up and running again.
  • Internet connectivity issues – You need a sturdy internet connection to play this NFL game; however, if your internet is slow or you have some connectivity issue, you can get this error.
  • Outdated app or missing updates – If your console or the Madden 22 app has pending updates, it might cause this issue. Check for updates for both the console and the app.
  • Conflicting programs – Uninstall the recently installed software on your computer or console, as they might have been interfering and causing the error.
  • Cache – If you haven’t cleared the cache on your console or for the game, it could also cause issues like these. Clear the cache and try again.

How do I fix the our servers cannot process your request at this time error in Madden 23?

Before moving to troubleshooting steps, let us go through these easy fixes to resolve the error: 

  • Restart your router.
  • Restart your computer.
  • Switch from Wi-Fi to Ethernet.
  • Check for pending updates for Windows/Console and Madden 23 app.
  • Make sure you have 1 Xbox Gamertag/1 PSN ID.

If these resolutions didn’t work for you, then try the below-mentioned methods to fix the issue: 

1. Check if the server is down

  1. Go to EA Help: Official Support.
  2. Click on Games.
  3. Type Madden 23 and press Enter in the search box.Madden 23 -our servers cannot process
  4. On the top right corner, you will see Server Status. If it is green, that means it is up and running.Server status

2. Refresh your lineup

  1. Go to your Roster within Madden Ultimate Team.Lineup -our servers cannot process madden 23
  2. Now locate the Lineup Tools, then click Generate Best Lineup.Generate lineupTool
  3. On Normal Lineup, select Create New.CreateNewBESTOVR
  4. For Generate Best Lineup, select Best Team Overall.BESTTEAMOVR4
  5. Go to Defense and select the Superstar player from the lineup.Superstars
  6. Click Deactivate.Superstar Deactivate
  7. Now try to play the Solo Challenge game before making more changes.
  9. If this didn’t work, try removing/swapping out your Team Visuals and Strategy Items, then try again.

3. Restart your console

Tip icon Tip
The steps to restart your console, whether PlayStation or Xbox, are similar. Here we are explaining the steps to restart Xbox.
  1. Press and hold the Xbox or PlayStation button for approximately 10 seconds. The console will turn off.
  2. Now restart it by pressing the button again. 
  3. Connect the controller and press the Xbox or PlayStation button on it.

4. Change DNS to Google Public DNS

4.1 PlayStation

  1. Open the PS menu, and go to Settings.
  2. Select Network and click Set Up Internet Connection.
  3. Select Wi-Fi or LAN cable.
  4. Click Custom, then select IP Address Settings (automatic).
  5. Select DHCP Host Name, click DNS Settings, and choose Manual.ps4-manual-dns-settings-768x432
  6. Enter the Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4DNS-options-our servers cannot process madden 23

 4.2 Xbox One

  1. On the Xbox home screen, click Settings.the-settings-option-in-xbox-Our Servers Cannot Process Error on Madden 23
  2. Go to Network, and then click Advanced settings.network-options-on-xbox
  3. Select DNS settings, then click Manual.
  4. For Primary DNS, enter 8.8.8.8 Primary-DNS-settings-768x470
  5. Now for Secondary DNS, enter 8.8.4.4Secondary-DNS-settings-768x434

4.3 Computer

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.NCPA run command
  2. Type ncpa.cpl and press Enter.
  3. Go to active connection, right-click on it, and select Properties.network settings PC
  4. From This connection uses the following items box, locate and double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).Ethernet properties -our servers cannot process madden 23
  5. Click on Use the following DNS server addresses radio button. 
  6. Now for the Preferred DNS server, use 8.8.8.8, and for the Alternate DNS server, use 8.8.4.4.IPv4
  7. Click OK, then again OK.

5. Hard Reset Xbox/PlayStation

  1. Press and hold the Power button on the console for 10 seconds or more until the console shuts down.Console-700x224 -our servers cannot process madden 23
  2. Remove the power cord from the console. Wait for three minutes, then plug it in.
  3. Press the button on the controller to restart your console and controller.

6. Contact EA support

If nothing has worked for you, it is advised that you reach out to EA support. Explain the issue along with the troubleshooting steps you have tried so far. This way, they will be able to assist you better. 

So, these are the methods to fix our servers cannot process your request at this time while playing Madden 23. Try them and let us know which worked for you in the comments below.

Fix: File Explorer Icon Missing in Windows 10 Start Menu

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

In Windows 10, the File Explorer icon is available by default in the taskbar. File Explorer icon missing from Start Menu is an issue that you may encounter out of nowhere, though.

Some Windows 10 users have reported that File Explorer is missing from the Start menu. This isn’t the only issue as many reported that File Explorer is slow on their PC.

What can I do if the File Explorer icon is missing in Windows 10 Start menu?

1. Verify Settings App

  1. Click on the Start button and then click on the Settings icon available in the Start menu. Alternatively, you can simply press Windows + I keyboard shortcuts, to quickly launch the Settings app. 
    camera not showing in device manager
  2. Click on Personalization and then Start. On the left pane, scroll down to the bottom and click on the link, which reads Choose which folders appear on Start.
  3. Now verify that the File Explorer option is On. If it is disabled, enable it by moving the toggle, and File Explorer will definitely appear in the Start menu. 

But for some reason, if you cannot change the setting for File Explorer or if the toggle is grayed out, then check out the next solution.

2. Manually add File Explorer in the Start menu

  1. Right-click your Desktop, next choose New, and then Shortcut.
  2. Type explorer.exe and follow the instructions on the screen.
  3. Press Windows + R keyboard shortcuts and type the following path in it and press OK. C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
  4. Move the newly explorer.exe shortcut to the Programs directory.
  5. Click on Continue to proceed.

3. Change File Explorer properties

  1. Launch the Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R keyboard shortcut.
  2. In the Run dialog box type the following: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Programs
  3. In the folder, make right-click on the empty area of the folder and from the context menu select Properties.
    properties
  4. Switch to the Previous Versions tab.
  5. Choose the earlier data, and then click on the Restore button.

Now doing this, the File Explorer shortcut will start appearing in the Start menu places folder. If it appears in the folder, you can enable the File Explorer toggle in the settings app.

Why are my icons missing from the Start menu in Windows 10?

When you have icons missing from the Start menu in Windows 10, it’s usually the corrupt system files to blame. Or it could be a trivial bug in the explorer.exe process, restarting, which should get things up and running.

Besides, do make sure that you didn’t inadvertently remove the icons that are missing. If so, you can always manually pin programs to the Start menu.

That’s all! We are confident this method will resolve the File Explorer Icon Missing in Windows 10 Start Menu issue.

If you have more issues, visit our File Explorer issues guide for more solutions.

Why not give these methods a shot and let us know which one you used to resolve the missing File Explorer bug?

LDAC on Windows 11: How to Enable It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

In today’s guide, we will look closer and show you how to enable this feature on your computer. Windows 11 doesn’t have native LDAC support. However, you can enable it in just a few easy steps:

LDAC codec has many advantages, and users wonder if they can or should use LDAC on Windows 11. This codec allows users to experience music in the highest possible quality.

How do I enable LDAC on Windows 11?

Table of contents

There are a few Bluetooth adapters or codecs that offer LDAC support. The offer is severely limited, so do thorough research before buying one.

Use third-party codec

  1. Visit the Alternative A2DP Driver page.
    a2dp driver-download
  2. Once the software is downloaded, run the setup file.
  3. Configure the software to use the LDAC codec and save changes.
    codec settings
Note icon NOTE
Remember that this application requires a license to work, but you can test it for free during the trial period.

Is LDAC supported on PC?

Yes, but the support varies depending on the operating system. Windows 11 doesn’t have native support, while some Linux distributions support LDAC out of the box.

Is LDAC better than aptX?

In theory, yes, since it has better bitrate. However, at 330kbps, aptX outperforms LDAC. However, if your device can handle a higher bitrate, LDAC might be a better choice.

Is LDAC actually lossless?

While it uses 990kpbs and offers amazing quality, LDAC is still not lossless but provides better quality than other codecs.

How does LDAC compare to SBC and AAC codecs?

LDAC offers better audio quality if you compare it to SBC and AAC. That’s because it supports bitrates up to 990 kbps, making it perfect for high-resolution audio.

On the other hand, SBC is pretty basic and maxes out at around 328 kbps. AAC has better audio quality than SBC, it still doesn’t match LDAC’s clarity

And that’s everything you need to know about LDAC support in Windows 11. Even though it’s not natively supported, there are third-party codecs that allow you to use it.

To learn more about Bluetooth, we have a great guide on Bluetooth codecs Windows 11 supports, so you shouldn’t miss it.

You may be interested in video codecs, so check out our extensive article. Besides, find out what to do if facing issues with Windows Bluetooth.

In the comments section below, let us know what audio codecs you use and your reasons for using them.

LDPlayer vs BlueStacks: Which Android Emulator Reigns Supreme?

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

Emulators like LDPlayer and BlueStacks let you run mobile games on your computer. With so many free options available, these two really stand out for their performance and features.

LDPlayer is often praised for its speed and smooth gameplay. It’s a great choice even for lower-end PCs. Meanwhile, BlueStacks is a veteran, known for its user-friendly interface and customization options.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each emulator, focusing on performance, ease of use, features, and compatibility to help you decide which one is right for your gaming needs.

LDPlayer vs Bluestacks – which one is the best choice?

Let’s take a quick look at how they compare:

CriteriaLDPlayerBlueStacks
Work SpeedFast on all PC typesSlower on low-end PCs
Number of AdsMinimal ads, clean interfaceFrequent ads and shortcuts
Preset Control SettingsGood presets for popular gamesGood presets for popular games
Convenience of InterfaceSimple and user-friendlyOverloaded with features
LocalizationGood, some occasional errorsHigh-quality, no errors
Gaming PerformanceExcellent, regular updatesResource-heavy, slower load

Now we dig deeper:

1. Work Speed

The speed of work is the most critical criterion.

BlueStacks cannot be called light – and we are talking here about the time of the emulator launch and the speed of its work on low-end PCs in general.

You might be surprised if you turn to LDPlayer after a long time of using Bluestacks because the program works much faster!

At the same time, the emulator can run heavy applications like Epic Seven, Black Desert Mobile, and Garena Free Fire.

LDPlayer proves its capabilities in providing fast performance, whether using beast or weak PCs. Thus, LDPlayer wins in this indicator.

⚡ LDPlayer vs. Bluestacks – 1:0

2. Number of ads

Bluestacks was originally a commercial project. Old users may remember the days when this emulator was paid for. This is no longer the case – but many ads are shown not only on the loading screen.

On Bluestacks desktop, you will constantly have virtual shortcuts leading to the download pages of certain games advertised by Bluestacks. You can delete these shortcuts, but soon they will reappear.

In LDPlayer, this is so far much simpler. There are ads in the App Store developed by LDPlayer. But on the home screen, LDPlayer keeps everything clean, and the program won’t pop up ads during your usage.

At the launch of LDPlayer, the emulator also advertises itself. Of course, this program may be more advertising as it grows. But so far, LDPlayer wins in this parameter as well.

? LDPlayer vs. Bluestacks – 2:0

3. Preset Control Settings

ldplayer vs bluestacks

For the most popular games, emulator developers try to create ready-made control settings. You can download a new game and be surprised that you don’t have to configure anything. All the keys are already in their places.

This situation can happen both with Bluestacks and LDPlayer. At the same time, LDPlayer is a Chinese program. Settings for popular games in China can appear very quickly.

In that case, many control settings are tested before the global release. Nevertheless, we recognize the equality of both emulators in this parameter. Therefore, the developers of both emulators are doing their job well.

? LDPlayer vs. Bluestacks – 3:1

4. Convenience of the interface

ldplayer vs bluestacks

BlueStacks is overloaded with unnecessary functions, while the user only needs it as a convenient launcher for launching mobile games.

At the same time, LDPlayer does not add anything extra to the interface. Instead, there is just a standard desktop of an android device and the necessary set of settings on the right side of the program window.

In our opinion, this is much more convenient.

? LDPlayer vs. Bluestacks – 4:1

5. Localization

Since Bluestacks is created and maintained by an American company, there is no problem with localization here. But Chinese developers have also recently learned how to do high-quality translations.

Of course, errors in the interface do happen, but these cases are rare and not critical. Nevertheless, we must admit that there are no mistakes at all in Bluestacks, and that’s why the American program wins here.

? LDPlayer vs. Bluestacks – 4:2

6. Gaming Performance

ldplayer vs bluestacks

Starting with version 4, Bluestacks became an extremely productive emulator, which owners of weak PCs noticed.

However, the emulator also consumes a lot of resources at the expense of the interface or something else, so it takes a long time to load.

LDPlayer also works well with heavy games but makes it easier and faster. And the developers of LDPlayer keep regular updates to improve the compatibility. Thus, the Chinese emulator wins this category.

? LDPlayer vs. Bluestacks – 5:2

Is LDPlayer better than Bluestacks?

So, we compared emulators according to the five most important criteria. According to the results of the comparison, LDPlayer won a convincing victory!

Bluestacks won only in one category – localization. We can not call Bluestacks a lousy emulator, but in some key elements, most users will rather have LDplayer.

So we will say that the victory remains with LDPlayer, and our primary consideration is performance.

If you also want to test these two emulators, please download them from the links below.

⇒ Get LDPlayer

⇒ Get Bluestacks

That is as much as we have for you in this Bluestacks vs LDPlayer comparison.

While we have done detailed and educated research to bring you this guide, we always like to leave the final choice to your preferences. So, if performance is not your primary criterion, you may choose Bluestacks over LDplayer.

What do you think of these emulators? Do you agree with the comparison results? Write your thoughts in the comments section below!

Fix {“errors”:{“code”:101000,”message”:”internal exception”}} in NordVPN

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

The error message Something went wrong when trying to buy a license inside NordVPN has been showing up on quite a few systems lately.

This issue can be extremely annoying, as, besides the fact that you can’t make the purchase, your account will not be activated either.

This is extremely important, especially if you’re using NordVPN to hide important information about yourself from third-party entities online, or you’re bypassing some server location limitations.

Even though an official release for this issue has not been released by the developers at NordVPN, we found some important steps you need to be aware of.

These steps are not actually a solution to the problem, but a series of checks that you need to perform in order to make sure that your payment goes through.

What’s Nord Account?

The Nord Account is the unified account that can be used to connect to all Nord products, not only NordVPN.

NordVPN’s developer (Nord Security) offers more than just the VPN, it has two more products: NordPass (password manager) and NordLocker (encrypted cloud).

That’s why, before accessing any of these platforms, you’ll have to log in to your Nord Account. You can use it to manage your subscriptions, and change your settings, and account info (billing, passwords, etc).

Is Nord Account the same as NordVPN?

No. While Nord Account is the way you get access to NordVPN, having a Nord Account doesn’t give you access to all the products. You need to get each of the Nord services separetely.

So for those of you that are confused and wondering if Nord Account is safe, the answer is yes, it’s safe and legit, owned by the NordVPN company.

Why will my NordVPN not connect?

If your connection is up and running and other applications work fine, then it’s possible that either your Nord Account or NordVPN app have some issues:

  • Outdated/corrupt app – out-of-date NordVPN apps don’t display all the servers and often fail to connect at all
  • Your plan expired – it’s possible that your subscription info expired or was disabled because you did not pay for it – check your account and transactions
  • Your firewall is blocking NordVPN– sometimes security software may flag secure apps like NordVPN, check your firewall and add NordVPN as an exception, if necessary

The most common errors related to NordVPN not working include:

  • {“errors”:{“code”:101000,”message”:”internal exception”}}
  • NordVPN error code: 905308
  • NordPasss: something went wrong
  • Nord Account 500 error – 500 internal server error
  • NordVPN Chrome extension something went wrong
  • NordVPN sign-in failed/ something went wrong
  • NordVPN connecting is taking too long

If NordVPN displays the Something went wrong message, or the above-mentioned errors, follow the steps below to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

How can I fix Something went wrong error in NordVPN?

1. Reinstall NordVPN from an official source

  1. Head to Start Menu > Control Panel.
  2. Up next, click on Uninstall a Program under the Programs section.
  3. Search for NordVPN inside the programs list and select it.
  4. Press Uninstall.
  5. Confirm your want to uninstall NordVPN.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the removal process.
  7. After the VPN is removed, download the official NordVPN software.

Cracked VPN versions never work properly. If that’s your case too, make sure you grab the official Tefincom & Co., S.A. VPN solution this time.

After applying the above steps, try to activate it once more and confirm getting rid of the error. You’ll be able to enjoy online freedom anywhere in the world without any data limits.

If your wish is to speed up NordVPN, use a peer-to-peer server, change the server you are using, and use the confirmed tips from this detailed guide.

NordVPN

Reinstall NordVPN right away when getting the Something went wrong error!
Check price Visit website

2. Make sure your card has enough funds available

Even though this idea seems like a no-brainer, some users have had this issue because they didn’t have enough funds on the card they chose to make the payment with.

Check your Nord Account to see which card is linked to them, then check if you have enough funds available to complete the payment.

3. Check the information you entered while setting up the payment

  1. Make sure that the data found on your card is exactly typed into the payment system inside NordVPN.
  2. Not having an exact match of the data there will cause the payment to not go through.

4. Check the expiration date of your card

  1. In case you see the error message Something went wrong when trying to pay your NordVPN subscription, you will need to make sure that your card is not expired.
  2. If you see that the date written on your card has passed, you will need to contact your card issuer (bank) and get an updated card.

5. Fraud detection

  1. Another reason for this error message and the inability to pay your subscription to NordVPN could be that you’re trying to perform the payment with a VPN service active or while using a proxy server.
  2. In the case that your IP address is not belonging to the country in which your card is opened in, it will cause the NordVPN software to decline the payment for security reasons.
  3. Disable your VPN or proxy and try to make the purchase again.

6. The transaction might have been declined by your bank

  1. Even though this issue doesn’t happen very often, there were cases in which the bank refused the payment for security reasons.
  2. To fix this, you will need to contact your bank and ask them to allow future payments to NordVPN.

In this article, we explored the most common reasons for encountering the Something went wrong NordVPN error message.

Please feel free to let us know if this guide helped you solve your issue by using the comments section found below.

Raspberry pi not Connecting to WiFi/Ethernet

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

If your Raspberry Pi is not connecting to Ethernet or WiFi, you need to check your WiFi router if the internet is working or not.

If the internet is not working, try resetting the WiFi router or the modem to resolve the issue. In case the issue persists, the problem is most likely with your Raspberry Pi.

Several users have reported similar issues in the official Raspberry Pi forum:

My RPi 3 B+, which I’ve had for a couple years now, has recently refused to connect to the internet. I have it connected to ethernet because the wifi connection is weak in this part of the house. I cannot successfully ping its hostname or IP from any other computer in the house.

In this article, we have listed a couple of troubleshooting tips to help you fix the Raspberry Pi Ethernet not working issue.

How do I fix Raspberry Pi Ethernet not working?

1. Check for issues with SSID

Raspberry Pi is not connecting to WiFi
  1. If the Raspberry Pi has an issue connecting to your WiFi network, check the SSID for invalid characters.
  2. Make sure your network name (SSID) does not have an underscore in it.
  3. Remove the underscore, and then try to connect your Raspberry Pi to the WiFi network.
  4. Removing the underscore has helped several users resolve the issue.

Additionally, if your router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless network, try using the 2.4GHz network. Try connecting the device to the network again and check for any improvements.

2. Check your home network for issues

Reboot the router 

  1. Turn off the router and unplug the power from the wall outlet.
  2. Turn off your WiFi router if you are using one.
  3. Disconnect the Ethernet cable connected to your modem.
  4. Leave the router idle for a minute.
  5. Reconnect the power and turn on the modem and your WiFi router.
  6. Once all the lights stop blinking, connect Raspberry Pi, and check for any improvements.

Check the Ethernet port and cable 

Raspberry Pi is not connecting to WiFi
  1. Make sure the Ethernet cable is working by connecting directly to your PC.
  2. If the Ethernet cable is not working, consider replacing the cable.
  3. Try using a different Ethernet port on your router to check for issues with the port.

If the Raspberry Pi not connecting to Ethernet or WiFi issue persists, consider updating your WiFi router’s firmware. Restoring the router settings to factory default and then reconfiguring the network device can also help if the issue is due to your home network and not Raspberry pi.

3. Reinstall Raspbian image

Raspberry Pi is not connecting to Ethernet
  1. Download the latest version Raspberry Pi imager to your computer.
  2. Run the installer to install the Raspberry Pi imager.
  3. Connect an SD card reader with an SD card inside to your computer.
  4. Open Raspberry Pi imager, and make sure the SD card is detected.
  5. Choose the required OS from the list presented.
  6. Choose the SD card you wish to install the OS on.
  7. Click Write to begin the installation.
  8. Once installed, reconnect the SD card to your Raspberry Pi and check for any improvements.

If reinstalling the latest version of Raspbian did not help, try downgrading to an older version to see if that works.

Check for hardware issues

  1. If the issue persists, check your Raspberry Pi Ethernet port for hardware issues.
  2. Connect an external Ethernet adapter to the device and check if the internet works.
  3. In case the internet works, the Ethernet port on your Raspberry Pi is faulty.

Why won’t my Raspberry Pi connect to Ethernet?

Your Raspberry Pi device may stop connecting to the WiFi if it detects issues with the SSID or other network configuration.

However, when the issue is with your Ethernet connection, it is usually a dead Ethernet port that is causing the issue.

We hope you managed to fix the Raspberry Pi Ethernet not working problem and that you can easily use the internet right now. Let us know your thoughts on the topic in the comments section below.

There are no More Endpoints Available Endpoint Mapper [Fixed]

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Computer errors are somewhat common, and while some errors can be generated by Windows 10, some can be caused by third-party applications.

Users reported There are no more endpoints available from the endpoint mapper error, and this error can appear in all sorts of different situations.

Since this error can be rather annoying, today we’re going to show you how to fix it.

How can I fix the No more endpoints available error?

How do I fix the no more endpoints available error?

1. Reset the credentials for Enterprise Single Sign On service

  1. Open the Services window.
  2. Locate the Enterprise Single Sign On service and make sure that it’s running.
  3. Specify which user will run this service by double click the service to open its properties.
  4. Go to the Log on tab and select This account. Enter your account username and password and click Apply and OK to save changes. Alternatively, you can click the Browse button and search for your account.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-log-on-1
  5. Restart the service and check if the problem is resolved.

2. Restart the byProcessManager and RPC Server services

  1. Open the Services window.
  2. Locate byProcessManager and RPC Server services. Right-click each of these services and choose the Restart option.

How do I fix the no more endpoints available printer error?

1. Turn on the Firewall

  1. Press Windows Key + R, enter services.msc and press Enter.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-services-1
  2. Locate the Windows Firewall service, right-click it, and choose Start from the menu.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-services-2
  3. Close the Services window.

Note: For some unknown reason it seems that the printer installation process is related to the status of the Windows Firewall, and in order to successfully install a printer, you’ll have to turn this service on.

After starting the Windows Firewall service, the error should be fixed and you’ll be able to install your printer without any problems.

If your default printer keeps changing in Windows 10, check out this step-by-step guide to fix the issue.

2. Update the printer driver

This error can also be caused by a malfunctioning or old printer driver so you need to make sure that you have the latest drivers installed.

You can do that manually by using Device Manager or using the media included by the manufacturer in the box. Another option is to go to the manufacturer’s website and download it.

All these solutions are fine, but they don’t guarantee to provide the correct driver.

The easiest and safest way of making sure that you end up with a perfect running driver is to use specialized software like Outbyte Driver Updater.

If you’re not familiar with it, it’s an excellent tool that updates your drivers in just a few seconds automatically.

First, you need to download and install Outbyte Driver Updater. The app will start automatically after the installation and will begin searching for driver issues on your PC.

When the process ends, you receive a list of drivers recommended for installation.

The only thing left to do is to decide whether you install all of them of just a few. For the first option, you just need to click the Update All button from the top.

If you want to install them separately, you need to check their corresponding boxes from their left and then hit the Update button from their right.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Make sure the Print Spooler service is running

  1. Make sure that your printer is connected and turned on.
  2. Open the Services window and locate Print Spooler service.
  3. Check the status of the service. If the service isn’t running, right-click it and choose Start from the menu.
  4. Close the Services window and check if the problem is resolved.

4. Check the Print Spooler dependencies

  1. Open the Services window, locate the PrintSpooler service , and double click it.
  2. When Print Spooler properties window opens, navigate to the Dependencies tab.
  3. In the This service depends on the following… expand all services.
  4. Go back to the Services window and a look for the services that you got in the previous step. In our case, those were DCOM Server Process Launcher and RPC Endpoint Mapper services (you might get different results on your PC).
  5. Locate those services, double click them, and set their Startup type to Automatic. If any of the services isn’t running, click the Start button to start it.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-automatic-service-1

5. Run the Print Troubleshooter

  1. Open Control Panel.
  2. Navigate to the Hardware and Sound, and then to the Device and Printers section.
  3. Right-click your printer and choose Troubleshoot from the menu.
  4. Follow the instructions and wait for the Troubleshoot to fix your problem.

6. Change the Print Spooler recovery options

  1. Open the Services window and double click the Print Spooler service to open its properties.
  2. Go to the Recovery tab.
  3. Set First failure, Second failure, and Subsequent failures to Restart the Service. Set Reset fail count after and Restart service after to 1.
  4. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

Note: By changing these options, the Print Spooler service will automatically start whenever it crashes or if it suddenly stops for any reason.

If the Print Spooler service keeps stopping on Windows 10, follow the steps in this comprehensive guide, and solve the problem in no time.

How do I fix the no more endpoints available sharing error?

1. Add the registry keys to your registry and change the permissions

  1. Download the MpsSvc.reg and BFE.reg files and add them to your registry simply by double-clicking both files.
  2. Restart your PC.
  3. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit and press Enter or click OK.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-regedit-1
  4. Go to the following key from the left pane: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesBFE
  5. Right-click the BFE key and choose Permissions from the menu.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-regedit-2
  6. Click the Add button.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-regedit-3
  7. In the Enter the object names to select field enter Everyone. Click Check Names and OK.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-regedit-4
  8. Everyone should be now added to the Group or user names section.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-regedit-5
  9. Select Everyone from the list and check the Full Control option in the Allow column. Click Apply and OK to save changes.

Note: This solution is a bit advanced and it involves changing your registry.

Before making any changes, we strongly suggest that you create a backup so you can easily restore it if anything goes wrong.

Disclaimer: This is an unofficial download mirror for the MpsSvc.reg and BFE.reg files. WindowsReport is not responsible for the download or the installer package.

Restart the Base Filtering Engine and Windows Firewall services

  1. Open the Services window.
  2. Locate the Base Filtering Engine and Windows Firewall services and enable them both.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-regedit-6

2. Run the SFC and DISM scans

  1. Search for cmd and click on Run as administrator to start Command Prompt.
  2. Enter sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. After the scan is completed, enter the following command and press Enter to run it: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. After the DISM scan is completed, close Command Prompt.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the problem is resolved.

If the DISM scan fails, check out this quick guide and get rid of the worries. Also, if the SFC scan has stopped before the process finished, check out this easy fix.

How do I fix the no more endpoints available Avast error?

1. Download the latest update file for Avast

You can fix this problem simply by downloading the latest update file for your version of Avast.

To do that, simply go to Avast’s download section and download the necessary files. Install the download files and restart your computer.

When your computer restarts, open Avast and click on Fix Now button. The software will attempt to fix the problem.

2. Repair the Avast installation

  1. Search for control panel and click on Control Panel from the results.
  2. Select the Uninstall a program option.
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-control-2
  3. Select Avast and choose the Repair or Change options from the menu (you can also right-click the application from the list and choose the desired option).
    no-more-endpoints-available-from-endpoint-mapper-control-3
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the repair process.
  5. After you complete the repair, restart your computer and check if that fixes the problem.

3. Reinstall Avast

If this problem still persists, you might want to try reinstalling Avast. To do that, first, you need to uninstall Avast. Uninstalling Avast isn’t usually enough, and you’ll have to remove all files and registry entries associated with it.

You can easily do that by downloading and running Avast Uninstall Utility. After you remove all Avast files from your PC, restart your computer. When your PC restarts, download the latest version of Avast and install it.

After you install Avast again, the problem should be resolved.

How do I fix the no more endpoints available Exchange error? 

1. Make sure that firewall service is running

Users reported that one of the simplest ways to fix this problem is to enable the Microsoft Firewall service.

We already explained how to enable Microsoft Firewall service in one of our previous solutions, so be sure to check it out.

2. Delete the Watermark and Action keys

  1. Open Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following key and expand it: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftExchangeServerv14HubTransportRole
  3. You should see the Watermark and Action keys available. Delete them both.
  4. Close Registry Editor and check if the problem is resolved.

Note: Deleting registry keys can lead to system instability, therefore we recommend creating a backup of your registry before proceeding. To delete the problematic keys, do the following:

If you can’t edit your Windows 10’s registry, read this handy guide and find the quickest solutions to the issue.

3. Make sure that necessary services are running

  1. Open Services window.
  2. Locate Microsoft Exchange Search Indexer, Microsoft Exchange RPC Client Access server, and Microsoft Exchange System Attendant services and make sure that all are running.
  3. After starting them, close the Services window and check if the problem is resolved.

There are no more endpoints available from the endpoint mapper error can interfere with file sharing, printer setup, or with your antivirus tool, and in most cases, you can fix this problem by checking your services and changing your settings.

In case that none of our solutions work for you, you might want to consider performing a clean install of Windows 10.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to check them out.

This Document Contains Links that may Refer to other Files [Fixed]

Posted on by Andrew Wafer

Trying to open a Word document and getting the This document contains links that may refer to other files error? Don’t panic.

There is a workaround that can help you suppress this message and fix/update all the links that are causing the message in the first place.

So, during the following lines, we will learn how to address the persistent Word error message saying that your document is containing external links that can modify the structure and the overall template that was previously set.

  1. From Word, click on File and navigate towards Options.
  2. Choose Quick Access Toolbar.
  3. Find the Choose commands from field and then change its dropdown into All Commands.
  4. Scroll down and click on Edit Links to Files and then select the Add button.microsoft word edit links to files
  5. Save your changes.
  6. Now, the page with a chain icon should have been added to your Quick Access Toolbar.
  7. Click on this icon and a list of links will be displayed.
  8. Select these links and set to Manual Update, or break all links.
  9. That should fix your problem.

First of all, you can try to rename your Word document and check if the problem persists. If not needed, you can also break links as that can suppress this document contains links that may refer to other files message.

You can also check the following options in Word for fixing the ‘links’ issues:

  • Go to File, choose Options and access Display; under Printing Options check the Update linked data before printing feature.
  • Go to File, access Options and go to Advanced; then from General, check ‘update automatic links at open’.

Don’t forget to review your links before choosing to apply any certain modifications or updates to the existing document.

3. Run the Automatic troubleshooter

Also, if the error is still there after applying the steps from above, try to run the Microsoft Office automatic troubleshooter: go to File, pick Info and initiate the troubleshooter listed under Check for issues.

4. Use a Repair tool

Another fast way to fix any Word document-related issue is to simply use a third-party repair tool just like Stellar Repair for Word.

Stellar repairs text, font, hyperlinks, header, footer, bookmarks, comments, and pretty much all aspects of your Word document, bringing it back into a perfectly functioning state.

⇒ Get Stellar Repair for Word

If you know other similar solutions that can fix this malfunction don’t hesitate and share everything with us so that we can update this tutorial accordingly – don’t worry, you will receive the credits for the shared solutions.

Need more help with Microsoft Office products? You can find it in our dedicated Office Hub.

For more articles that can help you solve common PC issues, visit our Fix section.

5 Ways to Run File Explorer as Administrator in Windows 11

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Have you been looking for ways to run File Explorer as an administrator in Windows 11, but you do not yet know how to configure the File Explorer settings?

In this article, you will find simplified steps to run File Explorer as an administrator in Windows 11. You can apply any of the steps that you feel comfortable with.

Can I configure File Explorer settings?

For some of our readers asking if they can configure the File Explorer settings, yes, it is possible, and there are several ways to access the File Explorer settings on Windows 11.

The following are some of the ways to tweak File Explorer settings:

  • Change folder and search options through the File menu.
  • By using the Search box in File Explorer.
  • Using the Command Prompt (control.exe folders).
  • By opening the Run command dialog box.

By using any of the above methods, Windows users can change their default File Explorer settings and options.

How can I run File Explorer as an administrator in Windows 11?

1. Use Task Manager

  1. Right-click on the Start button on your Taskbar. From the context menu, select Task Manager.
  2. Next, choose File from the menu bar, and then click on Run new task from the options.
  3. Type explorer.exe in the Create new task window.
  4. Now, check the Create this task with administrative privileges box and then click OK.

Windows should now open File Explorer with administrator access.

2. Use the Run console

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run console.
  2. Type the following command line in the text field and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter on your keyboard to start File Explorer as administrator: C:\Windows\explorer.exe

And that’s it with using the Run dialog box to run File Explorer with administrator. The next method talks about how to use PowerShell to run File Explorer as an administrator.

3. Use PowerShell

  1. Left-click on the Start button and type Windows PowerShell in the Search box and click on Run as Administrator from the options.
  2. Type or paste the following command and press Enter: C:\windows\explorer.exe /nouaccheck

In case you’re experiencing Windows PowerShell errors, check out this article to know how to fix the issue.

  1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard, and type explorer.exe.
  2. Then, select Run as administrator from the menu.

5. Run as admin from File Explorer

  1. Press the Windows key + E to start File Explorer.
  2. Then, navigate to the following location on your drive: C:\Windows
  3. Scroll down to locate Explorer, right-click on it, and select Run as administrator.
  4. A new elevated File Explorer window will open after you click on the UAC prompt.

With the above steps, you can now access any program or file through File Explorer. However, ensure that the file or program you seek is not hidden.

In case of necessity, you can easily fix your file explorer in 7 ways if it won’t open in Windows 11 by exploring this guide.

Alternatively, if you choose to opt for other file managers that offer more features than File Explorer, you can explore our dedicated guide for that.

It may also pique your interest to find out, through our article, how to enable the dark theme on File Explorer giving you a different look from the usual light theme and reducing your eye strain.

To learn more about administrator privileges, we also have a guide on how to run Task Manager as admin, so don’t miss it.

If you have any additional information or questions on this topic, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity: How to Fix Incompatible Drivers

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Turning on the Memory Integrity helps prevent malicious code from accessing high-security components in the event of an attack. However, enabling Core isolation on Windows 11 can be challenging due to the PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity error users encounter.

Hence, we will outline various ways to fix this in this guide. Also, we have a similar article about Wdcsam64.sys Memory Integrity error and how to fix it on Windows 11.

What causes the PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity?

There could be various causes of the PxHIpa64.sys incompatible driver error on Windows 11. Some popular ones are:

  • Interference from programs using PxHlpa64.sys driver – Software like Roxio and others use the PxHlpa64.sys driver to run their processes on the system. These programs can interfere with Windows security, preventing the Memory Integrity feature from working.
  • Outdated drivers – Different drivers on your computer are responsible for various components and devices, including the security system. So, the PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity error may appear when enabling the Core isolation feature if your system drivers are not updated.
  • Corrupt system files – Corrupt system files on your PC can be due to viruses and malware infection. Hence, they can infect other files, including the PxHIpa64.sys location, resulting in the Memory Integrity error whenever invoked.
  • Faulty Windows Update – Installing a Windows build that is not stable can prompt a problem with the driver and the Core isolation system.

Other factors not mentioned here can also be responsible for the PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity error. Nevertheless, we shall discuss some effective fixes to resolve the error.

How can I fix the PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity?

Before attempting any advanced troubleshooting steps, apply the following checks:

If you can’t resolve the error, proceed with the following solutions:

1. Disable PxHlpa64.sys via Registry Editor

  1. Press the Windows + R button to open the Run dialog box, type in regedit, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open the Registry Editor with admin access.
  2. Click Yes when the User Account Control (UAC) is prompted.
  3. Navigate to the following location: HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\PxHlpa64.sys
  4. On the right side of the screen, double-click on the Start REG_DWORD. Set the base of Start to Hexadecimal, change the Value Data to 4, then click OK to save the changes.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Tweaking the Registry Editor allows you to access data you can use to modify and stop the activities of the PxHIpa64.sys file on your computer. Check how to fix a corrupt registry if you encounter issues with it.

2. Run DISM and PNPUtil tools in CMD

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt, and click the Run as administrator option.
  2. Click Yes on the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
  3. Copy this command and paste, then press Enter after each one: dism /online /get-drivers /format:table
  4. Under the Provider Name table, find the line containing the PxHIpa64.sys, then take note of the Published name.
  5. Type in the following command, replacing the Published name with the driver name, then press Enter: pnputil /delete-driver oem5.inf /uninstall /force
  6. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Uninstalling the driver will remove any form of interference it is causing the Memory Integrity feature on your computer.

Meanwhile, if the Command Prompt is not working on your PC, do not hesitate to check for fixes in this guide.

3. Update Windows drives

  1. Press the Windows + I key to open the Windows Settings.
  2. Navigate to the Windows Update tab and select the Advanced options.
  3. Select Optional Update.
  4. Click the drop-down button on the Driver Update and checkmark the list of updates available.
  5. Click the Update and Install button and wait for the drivers to install.

Installing driver updates will fix compatibility issues caused by outdated drivers. Further, you can read more on how to update system driver packs on Windows here.

If you want to act fast and get the latest Windows drivers, you can quickly perform this with Fortect Driver Updater, dedicated software that can scan your PC and update drivers on short notice.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

4. Uninstall recent Windows updates

  1. Press Windows + I key to open the Settings app.
  2. Click Windows Update and select Update history.
  3. Tap the Uninstall updates button and select the most recent update.
  4. Click on Uninstall.

Uninstalling the recent Windows update will delete the recently installed build causing the PxHIpa64.sys Memory Integrity error.

Read our guide on how to uninstall updates on Windows 11 for more steps.

In addition, do not hesitate to check our detailed guide about the Brusbsib.sys incompatible driver error and how to fix it. Also, you can read about fixing Win32kfull.sys BSOD errors on Windows 11.

If you have more questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section.

How to Uninstall Edge Extensions: 4 Ways to Pick From

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Some of our readers complain that they can’t remove Edge extensions. This could be a big issue if the extension in question interferes with the browser’s performance. But we have good news.

We found a few ways to remove stubborn extensions and built a quick step by step guide that you can follow along. So if you want to get rid of unwanted addons in Edge, keep reading.

How can I uninstall Edge extensions?

Before we start, try shutting down and restarting Edge, update it, and close all tabs before trying to uninstall the extension.

If these tricks won’t do, apply the steps below:

1. Remove Edge extensions from within the browser

  1. Launch the Microsoft Edge browser, click the three dots in the top right corner, and click on Extensions.
  2. Select from the list of extensions and click on Manage Extensions.
  3. Toggle off the extension to disable it and check if the error persists.
  4. Repeat this process for all extensions to find the Extensions causing the error.
  5. Select Remove to remove the extensions causing the error.

For a quick refresher on managing add-ons, see our Extensions Microsoft Edge guide.

2. Delete via the Registry Editor

  1. Press the Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Copy the following path and press Enter: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Edge 
  3. Highlight all the folders in the directory and press the Delete button.
  4. Close the Registry Editor, restart your PC, and check if the issue persists.

Using the Registry Editor, you can gain access to detailed information about the Edge extensions, modify, and remove them with ease.

3. Uninstall Edge Extensions using PowerShell

  1. Left-click the Start button, type PowerShell, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Select Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
  3. Type the following command on the new screen and press Enter: Get-AppxPackage * input your extension name*
  4. Input the following command and press Enter to remove the extension: Get-AppxPackage *input your extension name* | Remove-AppxPackage
  5. Restart your PC and check if you can uninstall Microsoft Edge.

Using PowerShell to remove Edge extensions will clean everything relating to the extension. Read our detailed guide about PowerShell not showing the full output on Windows 11.

4. Scan your PC

  1. Press the Windows key + i to open Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy and Security.
  3. Select Windows Security and confirm you want to openwindows security
  4. Click Open Windows Security.open windows security
  5. Select Quick Scan. Wait for the process to complete and remove all threats found.quick scan windows defender

Sometimes malware and viruses could stop you from uninstalling extensions from Edge. Make sure your PC is not infected and then try removing unwanted extensions again.

Why can’t I remove Edge extensions?

Some factors responsible for this are:

  • Malware and viruses – The performance of the Microsoft Edge browser may be impeded due to malware and virus infection on your PC. This causes browser malfunction, making the extension inaccessible or unresponsive.
  • Issues with Microsoft Edge client – Some Edge browser settings may affect its functionality and how it interacts with the programs installed on it. So, you may find it hard to uninstall extensions if the Edge browser isn’t functioning correctly.

In addition, you may check our article about ways to troubleshoot the Microsoft Edge browser on your PC.

For further questions and suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments below.