Port Forwarding Not Working: 4 Ways to Unblock It

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Port forwarding allows the creation of a public service on your network, allowing remote devices on the server to access the shared resources on your computer. Without it, devices not part of the internal network can’t access each other.

However, some users complain that port forwarding is not working on their network. Also, we have a similar article on fixing Asus router port forwarding if it’s not working.

Why is port forwarding not working?

Some common factors are:

  • ISP not allowing public addresses – Without having a public domain setup, external devices won’t be able to connect and use the devices on the network. So, it results in routers like TP-link and Xfinity port forwarding not working.
  • Misconfiguration in the router settings – You might make mistakes when configuring the port forwarding settings. Hence, it may lead to port forwarding not working on Spectrum, hindering external devices from accessing it.
  • Outdated router firmware – Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with the router, resulting in products like MikroTik port forwarding not working. Also, network congestion on the PC may prevent the forwarding process.
  • Firewall protection blocking external access – Windows Firewall secures the system from whatever connection is coming in and scrutinizes them before allowing access. Sometimes, Google Wi-Fi port forwarding won’t work because Windows Firewall blocks the port from external access.

Other factors, such as IP address and FQDN issues, or a wrong port number, can cause wired network connection problems. Nevertheless, we’ll take you through some basic steps to get port forwarding working on your router and device.

What can I do if port forwarding is not working?

Before trying any advanced troubleshooting steps, go through these quick checks:

  • Restart your Wi-Fi or router.
  • Fix network connection issues on the device.
  • Restart the host and the recipient devices and see if they can access the network.
  • Check for Router Firmware updates – you can read the router manual and check for router firmware update procedures. Users can also contact their manufacturer for guidance on updating their routers.

If you can fix the port forwarding problem, proceed with the fixes below:

1. Manage the Internet Information Services settings

Note icon NOTE
Steps 1-6 will help install Internet Information Services Manager from the Windows features.
  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type control, then press Enter to open the Control Panel.
  2. Click Programs, then click Turn Windows features on or off.
  3. In the Windows Features dialog box, select Internet Information Services to install the default features.
  4. Click the Application Development Features drop-down, and select ASP.NET 4.5 to add the features that support ASP.NET.
  5. Click the OK button to exit the Windows Features dialog box.
  6. To verify that IIS is installed successfully, go to localhost. The default IIS Welcome page should appear.
  7. Right-click the Start button and launch the Internet Information Services Manager.
  8. Under the Connections tab, select Add Website…
  9. Input the site name and correct location, then choose the right IP Address and Port.
  10. To check your IP address, launch the Command Prompt, type ipconfig, then check your ipV4 address.
  11. Save the settings to create an FTP site.

2. Check errors in Router Configuration

  1. Launch your browser and go to the router’s IP address to open the Router’s Config.
  2. Log in using your administrator username and password.
  3. Find and go to Port Forwarding/Mapping Configuration.
  4. Input the same IP address generated in Solution 1, and choose the same port number.
  5. Click the Apply button to save and initiate the changes.

Adjusting your router’s configuration will resolve wrong settings, and fix Port forwarding issues.

3. Disable Windows Firewall

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type control, then press Enter.
  2. Click on the Windows Defender Firewall option.
  3. Click the Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off option.
  4. Go to the Private and Public network settings, then click the radio buttons for the Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended) option.
  5. Restart your PC.

Disabling the Windows Defender Firewall resolves any interference it’s causing your computer from connecting to the Port forward network.

You can read about how to disable windows defender if you encounter issues with it.

4. Reset TCP/IP Stack

  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. Type the following in the command bar and press Enter: netsh int ip reset c:\resetlog.txt
  4. Restart your PC.

Resetting the TCP/IP stack will restore it to default settings and fix any configuration issues that may cause port forwarding not to work. Check our guide on how to fix Command Prompt not working on your PC.

In addition, you may be interested in setting up and changing your static IP address on a Windows 11 PC.

Low Virtual Memory on Windows 10: 5 Easy Ways to Increase it

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Virtual Memory or Page File, often used interchangeably, play a vital role in Windows and allows the PC to run multiple applications without terminating any. But many reported low Virtual Memory on Windows 10, which affects the system’s performance.

Virtual Memory is a certain space on a storage drive, be it an HDD or SSD, used as RAM. This way, when your computer is running low on RAM, it moves the dormant programs to the Virtual Memory and effectively allocates the system resources to the active ones.

The problem begins when Virtual Memory runs low in Windows 10, and the OS can’t move programs to it. Let’s take a closer look at the issue and find out solutions that work for all.

Why is my Virtual Memory low?

Here are a few reasons you have come across a low Virtual Memory condition in Windows 10:

  • The page file size is small: If the size of the page file or Virtual Memory is too small, it will fill up as soon as a few programs are moved to it.
  • Running too many programs: When you run several resource-intensive programs at once, the OS moves some to the Virtual Memory, and thus it might run low. This is why many get the This computer can’t connect to the remote computer. The problem might be due to low virtual memory error.
  • Issues with the disk: Since Virtual Memory is created on the storage disk, problems with the latter can lead to this issue.
  • Malfunctioning RAM: A malfunctioning RAM module wouldn’t store files. Thus, more programs will be moved to the Virtual Memory, and, as a result, it may run low in Windows 10.

Should I increase Virtual Memory on Windows 10?

Ideally, it’s not recommended that you increase the Virtual Memory. Instead, let Windows handle it, as is the case by default. But when there are issues or the Virtual Memory is low in Windows 10, increasing it manually should help.

Here’s the recommended Virtual Memory in Windows 10:

  • Initial size: 1.5 x Available RAM (in MB)
  • Maximum size: 3 x Available RAM (in MB)

Say, your PC has 4 GB RAM. So, the Initial and Maximum size of the recommended Virtual Memory is 6144 MB (1.5 x x 1024) and 12,288 (3 x 5 x 1024), respectively.

How can I fix low Virtual Memory on Windows 10?

Before we start making major changes, here are a few tips and tricks you can try:

  • Restart the computer, as this will terminate the other processes consuming RAM, lowering the Virtual Memory usage.
  • Scan the PC for malware and virus using a reliable third-party antivirus since these too can lead to the problem.
  • If you notice low Virtual Memory on running specific applications in Windows 10, update or reinstall the program.
  • Check for any pending Windows Updates and install them.

If these don’t work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Disable non-critical startup apps

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, and head to the Startup tab.startup tab
  2. Now, select the non-critical apps one at a time, and click Disable.disable to fix low virtual memory windows 10
  3. Similarly, disable the other ones as well.

One of the quickest ways to fix low Virtual Memory without increasing it is to reduce the RAM consumption. And an effective method for it is to disable startup apps. Also you can do so by accessing the Startup folder.

2. Increase the Virtual Memory

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type View advanced system settings, and click on the relevant search result.view advanced system settings
  2. Click on Settings under Performance.settings
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab, and click on Change under Virtual Memory.change
  4. Untick the checkbox for Automatically manage paging file size for all drives, select No paging file, and click on Set.no paging file
  5. Click Yes in the prompt.yes
  6. Once done, select the C: drive from the list, and choose Custom size.custom size
  7. Now, fill out the fields for Initial size and Maximum size based on the recommended Virtual Memory formula shared earlier, and click on OK to save the changes.increase to fix low virtual memory windows 10

Restart the computer for the changes to come into effect, and, in all likelihood, you shouldn’t come across the low Virtual Memory error again in Windows 10.

3. Scan for corrupt system files

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.cmd
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Now, paste the following commands individually and hit Enter after each:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Once done, execute the following command to run the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc scan to fix low virtual memory windows 10

4. Check the disk for errors

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Command Prompt, and click on Run as administrator.command prompt
  2. Click Yes in the prompt.
  3. Now, paste the following command and hit Enter:chkdsk /rcheck disk to fix low virtual memory windows 10
  4. If asked to schedule a scan, press Y and then Enter.confirm

The pagefile.sys or the Virtual Memory in Windows resides on the disk. So, unreadable, corrupt, or bad sectors can trigger various problems.

This is where the Check Disk utility comes into the picture and helps fix low virtual memory in Windows 10 by eliminating disk issues.

5. Add more RAM

If nothing else worked, the last option is to increase the installed RAM on the PC. Remember, no matter how much you increase the Virtual Memory, it wouldn’t provide the same results as the RAM due to the slower read/write time.

Virtual Memory was popular when RAM modules were costly, but over the years, their prices have dropped tremendously, and thus, installing a few additional GBs of RAM should be the preferred approach.

That’s all for now! One of the solutions here should have helped fix the low Virtual Memory problem in Windows 10.

Also, before you leave, do not forget to check some quick tips to improve the performance of Windows.

If you have any queries or want to share feedback, drop a comment below.

Tab feature arrives on your Windows 11’s Notepad

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Do you often use Notepad on Windows 11? If so, you’re in for a treat.

Just like what they did by introducing the Bing AI chatbot to Windows 11 taskbar, the Redmond-based tech giant also brought a new feature to Notepad. From now on, you can open a new tab from the same window to write a new text without having to open a new Notepad window.

The new tabs in Notepad will work exactly like how they function in Files Explorer and web browsers, meaning you will not have to open multiple windows for multiple folders and directories.

Previously, rumors of this feature have been circulating around for months, at least since December 2022 almost a year after Microsoft fully redesigned the app for Insiders, so just imagine how happy some people actually are.

What other features are coming with Moment 2 update?

Other than the well-revamped Notepad, Microsoft came with a bunch of good news.

Many people were wondering why the search bar on the taskbar got bigger all of the sudden, so Microsoft slapped it with a nice Bing AI chatbot technology in it. From now on, once you’re enrolled in the waitlist, you can perform complex searches on the chat mode.

Plus, iPhone and Windows 11 users are in for a treat, too, as the latest update brings a nice addition to Phone Link companion app. From now on, you can connect your iPhone devices to your Windows 11 PC so you don’t miss any call, message, or notifications from your mobile.

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

Fix: The Driver Being Installed Is Not Validated

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

While attempting to update drivers in a system, Windows users often experience the error the driver being installed is not validated for this computer.

Luckily, you can easily resolve this error. In this article, we’ll provide the necessary steps.

What causes this driver validation error?

There is only one primary reason you’re getting the error message that the driver being installed is not validated for this computer: you’re attempting to install a driver on your PC that the manufacturer doesn’t officially license.

Further, you can get many driver-related problems if you don’t address this error. Often, the causes are intentional by the manufacturers who prevent new driver installation that has not been endorsed.

Drivers released by Intel are rigorously tested against prototype machines to ensure they function optimally. So, even if there’s a new update for your driver, if Intel hasn’t officially tested it, you’d trigger the error The driver being installed is not validated for this computer.

What can I do if the driver being installed is not validated?

There aren’t any quick fixes to help you resolve this error. Here is a workaround you can attempt to circumvent your driver manufacturer’s restriction.

For this step, you must download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website and install them manually using the Device Manager.

Note icon NOTE
It’ll be better if you check the name of the missing drivers so that you can type it out in the search bar. For example, if you want to update an i3 7100u driver, type i3 7100u drivers in the search bar.
  1. Navigate to the Intel Official Downloads page to locate your preferred driver.
  2. Select the drivers you wish to download and click the Download button.
  3. Press the Windows key + R, type devmgmt.msc in the dialog box, and hit Enter.
  4. Then, click on the Display Adapters tab in the Device Manager window to expand the selection. Locate your hardware driver, right-click on it, and select Update driver.
  5. Click on the Browse my Computer for Driver Software option.
  6. Select the Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer option.
  7. On the bottom right corner of the window, click on Have Disk.
  8. Then, you can click on Browse in the next window to locate the driver you just downloaded.
  9. Navigate to the folder where you downloaded the driver (usually the Downloads Folder), select it, and click Open.
  10. Wait for the installation process, then close the Device Manager window.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you should be able to manually update your PC’s drivers without triggering the error the driver being installed is not validated for this computer.

By simply following our guide, you should be able to update your system’s drivers in no time.

Furthermore, if you’re facing challenges with driver validation, particularly the error An exception occurred in the driver: Could not find driver (Symfony, Windows), our in-depth guide can provide additional insights.

How to Connect Wireless Keyboard Without USB Receiver

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Wireless keyboards always come with a receiver to connect them to the computer. However, most people have complained about misplacing their receivers, preventing them from connecting their wireless keyboard devices.

Thus, we will discuss connecting a wireless keyboard without a USB receiver. Alternatively, you can read our guide on fixing the mouse and keyboard not working in Windows 11.

Can a wireless keyboard and mouse work without a receiver? There are 2 types of wireless keyboards. Some of them work with a dedicated dongle, and some Bluetooth keyboards can be connected directly to a compatible laptop or PC without any dongle.

However, products like the Logitech wireless keyboard allow connection without a USB receiver. Instead, the keyboard uses a USB Unifying receiver that can connect more than one peripheral device to your computer at a go.

Alternatively, you can research the best Bluetooth keyboard without a dongle before buying one.

How can I connect a wireless keyboard without a USB receiver?

Apply the following preliminary checks:

You can proceed with the following detailed procedures to connect your wireless keyboard if the above tricks did not work.

1. Via Bluetooth

  1. Switch on the keyboard with the power switch or button.
  2. Set the keyboard to pair the keyboard to pairing mode.
  3. Left-click on the Windows icon, type Settings, and press Enter to it.
  4. Select the Bluetooth & devices category. Turn on the Bluetooth option and click on Add devices.
  5. Select Bluetooth and click on the Keyboard device name from the search options to pair it with the PC.
  6. Try using the keyboard if it works.

Pairing the wireless keyboard with this process is for devices that use both receiver and Bluetooth.

For any problems with the Microsoft Designer Keyboard not pairing, click the highlighted guide to read about our solutions to fix it.

2. Use a Logitech unifying receiver

  1. Connect the unifying receiver to your system.
  2. Go to Logitech’s official webpage and download the Logitech unifying app.
  3. Wait for the download process to complete and install the app.
  4. Once the program has been opened, select I accept the terms of the license agreement and click on Install.
  5. Run the app after the installation and click on the Next button.
  6. Turn on your keyboard, and the unifier should detect your keyboard automatically.

Running the Unifier software allows you to detect and connect with wireless keyboards without having their receivers in place.

Check our guide about how to download Logitech Uifying Software for connecting Logitech devices on Windows 11.

Also, you can read about ways to fix Logitech Unifying Receiver not Working on Windows.

3. Use wire connectivity

Specific Microsoft wireless keyboard devices that support Bluetooth connections can also use wired connections. Thus, check if your keyboard device has a micro USB or type C USB. Connect the device to the micro USB, then plug the other end into your computer’s USB port and check if it works.

In conclusion, you can read about how to fix the Bluetooth keyboard connected to the device but not working on Windows. Also, learn to use a phone as a keyboard for your PC.

And for Ubotie users, we have a dedicated guide as well, so rest assured that connecting and configuring your Ubotie keyboard will work flawlessly.

If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them below.

FIXED: No Driver Was Found That Can Be Installed on the Current Device

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

If an error reading No driver was found that can be installed on the current device exit code 8 sounds familiar, stick around. We’ll show you how to fix it.

Installing a PCI graphics card, incompatible or outdated drivers, malware, or a recent Windows update can trigger this error. See the steps below to make it go away fast.

How can I fix no driver was found exit code 8?

Before we move on with more advanced troubleshooting solutions, restart your PC. If you can’t use the Intel GPU, try to remove the PCI Express graphics card from your system.

1. Uninstall the external PCI Express card

  1. Remove the external PCI Express card from your system.
  2. Type in Device Manager in the Windows Search bar and hit Enter.
  3. Then, expand the Display adapters section, locate the drivers for the PCI express card, right-click on the selection, and select Uninstall device.
  4. In the next Windows prompt, select Uninstall to confirm the process.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

2. Reset the BIOS settings

  1. Select the Start menu and click on the Power icon. Then while pressing the Shift key, click on Restart. Your PC will boot to the Advanced Startup screen.
  2. Then click on Troubleshoot and click on Advanced Options.
  3. After that, click on UEFI Firmware Settings.
  4. Click Restart and your PC will boot to the BIOS menu.
  5. Now go to the Exit tab via the arrow keys.
  6. Select Load Setup Defaults and hit Enter.
  7. Finally, select Yes in the confirmation dialog box.

It is always advisable not to tamper with the BIOS settings except in rare situations like this. Hence, If the PC won’t boot after BIOS update or reset, kindly follow the fixes in this guide.

3. Install drivers from the USB

  1. For this step, you’ll need to download the latest SATA or AHCI drivers from the Manufacturer’s website.
  2. Plug any USB stick into your PC and copy the downloaded offline driver installer file from your computer to the USB.
  3. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  4. Then, locate the Integrated Drivers tab, click on it to expand it, and select Update driver.
  5. Then, select the option of Browse my Computer for drivers.
  6. Click on the Browse button and navigate to the directory on the USB stick where you’ve copied the driver file.
  7. Click the Next button and wait for the PC to complete the installation.

In some cases, downloading and installing drivers from the Internet might be problematic. Alternatively, you can try installing the drivers from a USB stick.

Depending on the drivers, the installer will usually be a setup or an exe file. If the drivers are compressed in a zip file, you’ll need to decompress or extract the folder.

4. Adjust Integrated Graphics settings in Device Manager

  1. Right-click the Windows Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Navigate to the Actions tab, select the Add Legacy Hardware option, and click Next on Add Hardware Wizard.
  3. Further, select Recommended Option, and click Next.
  4. Click on Display Adapters and select Intel Corporation from the manufacturer’s list.
  5. Select the appropriate Intel Graphics Controllers based on your GPU graphics.
  6. Click Next and follow the instructions to complete the process.

5. Perform a clean boot

  1. Press Windows + R keys to launch the Run window, type msconfig, and launch it.
  2. Select the Services tab, click to Hide all Microsoft services, then click on Disable all and click OK.
  3. Select the Startup tab and select Open Task Manager.
  4. Then, locate the startup programs, right-click them, and select End task.
  5. Close this and restart your PC to effect the changes.

A clean boot could help troubleshoot the no driver was found exit code 8 error. Also, you can check other ways to perform a clean boot on your Windows here.

If you’ve any alternative ways to resolve exit code error 8 on your PC, please let us know in the comments below.

What Is Shared GPU Memory and How to Manage It

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

Shared GPU memory is a portion of your computer’s RAM temporarily used by the GPU when dedicated graphics memory runs out. This typically happens on systems with integrated graphics, like Intel UHD or AMD Radeon Vega, where no dedicated VRAM is available.

Table of contents

Shared vs Dedicated GPU Memory

Dedicated GPU memory is a fixed amount of VRAM built into your graphics card. Shared GPU memory, by contrast, is borrowed from your system RAM. Windows 10 and Windows 11 automatically allocate it when needed, especially for graphic-intensive tasks like games or video rendering.

If you’re unsure about your configuration, you can follow this guide on how to check how much VRAM you have in Windows 10, which shows both dedicated and shared memory.

How to Disable Shared GPU Memory

There’s no direct option in Windows settings to disable shared GPU memory. However, you can try limiting or disabling it through your PC’s BIOS or UEFI firmware:

  • Reboot your PC and enter the BIOS or UEFI (usually by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during startup).
  • Look for settings like “Integrated Graphics,” “iGPU Memory,” or “UMA Frame Buffer Size.”
  • If available, reduce the memory assigned or disable integrated graphics.

Keep in mind that disabling shared GPU memory can lead to performance issues if your GPU runs out of available memory. In some cases, misallocation could even indicate that your GPU memory is full, which affects game and app performance.

How to Increase Shared GPU Memory in Windows 11

To increase shared GPU memory manually, your best option is through the BIOS:

  • Open your BIOS settings.
  • Navigate to the video or chipset section.
  • Adjust the UMA Frame Buffer Size or similar option to allocate more RAM to the GPU.

You can also follow this walkthrough on how to increase VRAM in Windows 11, which includes registry tweaks and useful checks.

On Windows 10, the process is slightly different. Here’s how to increase dedicated video RAM in Windows 10 if your GPU allows it.

Can You Decrease Shared GPU Memory?

Decreasing shared GPU memory may help free up RAM for general use. You’ll need to access the BIOS to reduce the pre-allocated memory amount.

If you notice system memory not being used effectively, consider addressing the issue by checking why Windows 10 isn’t using all RAM, which might interfere with how much is available for graphics tasks.

Managing Shared GPU Memory Settings

There’s no toggle in Windows settings for shared GPU memory. However, you can monitor current usage:

  • Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
  • Go to the “Performance” tab.
  • Click on “GPU” to view dedicated and shared memory stats.

If memory levels appear unusually high or unstable, it could point to a GPU memory leak that needs troubleshooting or driver-level fixes.

Shared GPU Memory on NVIDIA Systems

If your system uses an NVIDIA GPU, shared memory still plays a role in hybrid graphics. In most cases, the dedicated VRAM takes priority, but you can fine-tune app-specific behavior using the NVIDIA Control Panel.

FAQs

What is shared GPU memory used for?

It supplements GPU memory by borrowing RAM when your graphics card runs out of dedicated VRAM.

Can I turn off shared GPU memory?

Only some BIOS setups allow this. Windows itself does not offer a native toggle.

How do I check how much shared GPU memory I have?

Open Task Manager → Performance tab → GPU section to view current usage.

Does shared GPU memory slow down performance?

Yes. RAM is slower than VRAM, so relying on shared memory can affect performance.

How to Block Potentially Unwanted Apps on Windows 11

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Have you been wondering about how to block apps on Windows 11 PC? Some of our readers have also recently shown interest in knowing how to block some apps as part of the new features in Windows 11 PC.

Hence, this article will highlight some reasons and the simplified steps to block potentially unwanted apps on Windows 11 PC.

Why do I need to block apps on my PC?

Potentially unwanted applications (PUA) are a class of software that can cause several issues for your computer. Hence, the following are some of the reasons why you need to block some apps on Windows 11 PC:

  • PUAs cause your PC to run slowly – Potentially unwanted apps can pose serious issues like making your computer lag or run slowly, hence the need to detect and block the apps.
  • Display Unexpected Ads – Some users have also reported some applications as PUAs because they display unexpected ads, which can sometimes be very malicious.
  • Install other harmful software and malicious files – You can easily determine whether downloaded apps or app installers are safe or possibly dangerous by comparing them to a list of websites and programs known to be unsafe.

The above are some of the several reasons why you need to block potentially unwanted applications on your PC. Below are simplified steps on how to block them on Windows 11.

How can I block potentially unwanted apps on Windows 11?

1. Block Potentially Unwanted Applications in Windows Microsoft Defender

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Windows Security in the search box, and launch it.
  2. Select App & browser control from the search results. Now, click on the Reputation-based protection settings. 
  3. If UAC prompts you, select Yes to continue.
  4. You can now find a control that lets you toggle On or Off potential unwanted app blocking.
  5. Now, click on the button to turn On the Potentially unwanted app-blocking setting.

You can manage the setting to protect your PC from malicious or potentially unwanted apps, files, and websites. However, if your Windows Microsoft Defender is missing or is not opening, you can explore our dedicated guide here to help you fix the issue.

Moreover, it is recommended that you leave the feature on and also enable both block apps and block downloads.

2. Enable PUA Blocking by using PowerShell

  1. Click on the Start button, type PowerShell in the search box, then click on Run as Administrator.
  2. Click Yes when the UAC prompts.
  3. Type the command below and press Enter to install this package: PowerShellGet –: WindowsDefender_InternalEvaluationSettings

In case you are experiencing Windows PowerShell errors, check out this article to know how to fix PowerShell if it’s not working or opening.

3. Use a dedicated PUP removal tool

PUPs are dangerous because sometimes you don’t even know you installed them. They sneak in with other software or disguise themselves as friendly apps.

However, we have a list of dedicated software that have specialized tools to detect and remove PUPs from your PC automatically.

Also, the best antiviruses for Windows 11 recognize and block such PUPs, but the best barrier against them is your vigilance.

Be careful not to install apps from untrusted sources, and pay attention to the installation process of any new app. If it suggests installing additional components or software, ensure not to allow them.

Windows is also known for installing tome tools it considers useful. We recommend reading our guide on how to block Windows from installing apps without your permission. The guide is for Windows 10, but all the solutions work for Windows 11 as well.

You may also decide to disable background apps in Windows 11 to avoid unwanted errors.

And that’s how to block potentially unwanted apps on Windows 11 PC. If you have any questions or suggestions, please let us know using the comments section below.

Two RAMs Not Working Together: How to Fix This

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

RAM (Random Access Memory) stores the operating system (OS), and there are four slots on the motherboard, allowing it to accommodate more than one stick. However, users have reported that two RAMs are not working together on their PC.

Alternatively, you can check our detailed guide on the PC not using all RAM, which is a common problem with most PCs.

Why are two RAM sticks not working together on my computer?

The issue with RAMs working individually but not working together indicates only one RAM stick will work at a time. The problem can be due to various factors affecting the system or hardware problems. Some notable causes are:

  • The two RAM sticks are incompatible – The RAM sticks you are trying to use together may not be compatible. Hence, check your system’s motherboard maker and motherboard information that determines usable hardware.
  • RAM stick not adequately fitted on the motherboard – One of the two RAM sticks you want to use may not be detected if it’s not appropriately plugged into the motherboard. Its pins can be bent, preventing the RAM stick from sitting in the slot. It is also possible to place the RAM stick into the wrong slot.
  • Motherboard issues – The two RAM sticks may not work after motherboard replacement or because of damages to the motherboard. Also, the RAM slots on your motherboards may be faulty, causing it not to detect the second RAM.

Fortunately, there are some basic steps you can follow to fix it.

What can I do if two RAMs are not working together on my computer?

Before proceeding with any advanced fixes, go through the following:

  • First, unplug external devices connected to your PC.
  • Restart your PC to check if the RAMs are working.
  • Check for compatibility issues – Look at how to check the RAMs for compatibility with your motherboard if two different RAMs are not working together.
  • Check if you are running Dual-Channel – you can consult your manufacturer for guidance on how to check if your motherboard supports dual-channel mode.

If the issue persists, go ahead with the steps below:

1. Test each RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

  1. Left-click the Start button, type for Windows Memory Diagnostic, then double-click on the first search result to run the application.
  2. Select Restart now and check for problems. Windows will automatically reboot and run the diagnostic tests.
  3. After Windows has restarted, check the diagnostic results to see if any RAM issues are detected.

Windows Memory Diagnostic (WMD) tool will detect issues that may be causing issues with the RAM sticks. Trying this on the two RAMs can expose the problem.

Check what to do if Windows Memory Diagnostics shows no results on your PC.

2. Switch ports for both RAM sticks

  1. Press and hold the Power button to shut down the system completely.
  2. Remove your PC’s back casing by following the user manual instructions.
  3. Find the RAM sticks on the motherboard and switch the ports for the two sticks.
  4. Follow the appropriate procedure and assemble the PC.
  5. Turn on the system and check if the two RAM slots work.

Switching ports for the RAM sticks will help you detect which RAM is faulty or the slot is not working.

Check our guide on what to do if your PC is not using all RAM on Windows 11. In addition, you can read our article about PC not booting after the RAM upgrade and ways to fix the problem. Likewise, check our pick of the best motherboards for Windows.

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

Best Browser for Duckduckgo: 6 Privacy Picks to Choose From

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

DuckDuckGo is popular among people who take their privacy seriously and don’t want giants like Google or even Bing to track their search history.

A DuckDuckGo browser is equally important. And if you’re just scratching the surface when it comes to this topic, you may be wondering what is DuckDuckGo?

Others may have more of a dilemma and ponder on things like: is DuckDuckGo a browser or a search engine? We’re hoping that our explanations below will help to answer all of these questions.

Does DuckDuckGo make a web browser?

To start with, DuckDuckGo is a search engine that takes user privacy very seriously. While all search engines claim they respect user privacy, it is a well-known fact that collected data is what keeps these search giants running.

DuckDuckGo, on the other hand, does not track user data, thus being one among the few fully private search engines.

So how to use DuckDuckGo? It’s simple, just like you would with any other search engine such as Google, for instance.

It is recommended to use a DuckDuckGo browser, though. Using a DuckDuckGo desktop browser with better privacy features can empower users to take control of their personal information online without any tradeoffs.

By teaming up with a DuckDuckGo browser for Windows, you can enhance the impact of the private search engine even more.

What is the downside of DuckDuckGo?

➡ Fewer services – DuckDuckGo can’t compare to a search engine like Google when it comes to services

➡ Less customization – You can’t sync all your accounts and services with it

➡ No personalization or autosuggestions – This is a pro and con at the same time because the personalization and the suggestions within the search come from tracking your information as Google does

That being said, let’s go and see what are the best privacy-focused browsers for DuckDuckGO. DuckDuckGo’s desktop browser compatibility is very wide but we have picked the very best of them for you.

What browser should I use with DuckDuckGo?

Opera One – Best privacy-oriented navigation

Opera One Browser is a popular web browser for the Windows platform. Recently, it received a complete design overhaul along with some fancy features that make it the best privacy browser for DuckDuckGo.

The latest version comes with a free VPN, a fast ad blocker, Web 3 support, and a lot more control over your browsing experience.

After installation, you can customize the browser by importing your bookmarks and history.

You can select a dark or light theme, use Messenger and WhatsApp without leaving the browser as well as store and use Cryptocurrency in the built-in Crypto wallet.

Opera One also comes with extension support, a built-in screenshot tool, and other security features such as HTTP redirection, etc.

Opera One

Enhance your privacy with the ultimate DuckDuckGo browser with a built-in free VPN.
Free Download Now

UR Browser – Light and privacy-oriented browser

UR Browser comes with a well-polished UI and a ton of privacy and security features. Chromium-based UR offers similar functionalities to Google Chrome and some additional features on top, we dare say.

Its privacy features include an inbuilt VPN with different servers for you to choose from when launching a private connexion.

UR can also block trackers, annoying ads, and cookies, redirect unsecured websites through an HTTPS connection when available, and even offers an anti-fingerprinting feature.

UR Browser

It’s like having your own digital bodyguard and security assistant.
Free Visit website

AVG Secure Browser – Stealth mode

Are you wondering what is the match for DuckDuckGo to get more privacy? AVG browser is a straight fit for boosting online privacy.

This popular browser is used by many for complete web security, as it can offer you browsing fingerprint masking and a VPN shield to stop any trackers.

Not only that, you can use helpful functionalities such as the Privacy Cleaner to remove history data, forced HTTPS encryption, adware defense, or antivirus shield.

It’s essential to know that you have zero tracking scripts or cookies that gather personal data while you access web pages.

AVG

Don’t allow any tracking or data collecting with this browser and DuckDuckGo engine.
Free Visit website

Mozilla Firefox – Fast and reliable

Firefox Browser for DuckDuckGo

After Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox is probably the most popular browser available for Windows computers. Similar to Opera One, Firefox also received a major overhaul to its design in the recent update along with enhanced speed and resource management.

Firefox allows you to sync your browsing data across devices by creating an account. The popular add-on/extension support has now improved with a more strict approach to applicable add-ons.

The Private browsing mode now blocks contents and online trackers that follow you around the web. Then there is the Screenshots feature with scrolling support that allows for a quick snap and share session.

Firefox can be customized according to the user’s preference by changing the search bar tool, themes, and default search engine from the settings.

⇒ Get Firefox

Google Chrome – Most popular browser

Google Chrome is the most popular web browser among Windows users. However, it is also known to collect user data when allowed, which is why it only landed the last position in our list.

Chrome also comes with all the standard security features such as automatic URL redirect from HTTP to HTTPS, VPN, and ad-blocker support through extensions and a familiar user interface across the devices.

The latest version of Google Chrome includes DuckDuckGo as a recommended search engine, making it a DuckDuckGo browser choice.

Note that there is even a DuckDuckGo extension for Chrome that you can use to shorten the process.

⇒ Get Google Chrome

All the browsers in this article allow you to change the default engine and set it to DuckDuckGo. Also, consider checking our list of browsers that don’t save your history and personal data.

With the constantly increasing rate of cyber security breaches, you may even consider using one of the best browsers without cookies to protect your online privacy.

Do you use DuckDuckGo as your default search engine? Let us know in the comments below.

You Can Record Your Screen through Snipping Tool

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Do you often use Windows 11’s built-in Snipping Tool to capture your PC screen? If so, you’re in for a treat.

Microsoft rolled out a bunch of new features within the Windows 11 Moment 2 update for general availability. Besides the hotly-anticipated Bing AI chatbot on the taskbar, the operating system also welcomes a nice addition of a screen record feature in the Snipping Tool and its autosave feature.

From now onward, you can use it to record and store your screen. As a matter of fact, you can free-form whichever part of your screen you want to record.

If you’re still curious about how it works, here’s how to record your screen through the Snipping Tool.

How to record screen through Snipping Tool?

1. Make sure you have the latest Windows 11 update installed. Check on Settings ➜ Windows Update to find out. If not, click on Download & update.

2. Open your Snipping Tool app.

3. Click on the camcorder icon, then click New.

4. Select the area you want to record, then click Start.

5. Once you’re finished, click the Save button. Pictures

If you’re also interested in using Snipping Tool to extract text from your screenshots, you can check out this guide on using the Snipping Tool for text extraction.

However, upon our testing, the feature hasn’t really worked smoothly. There is no option to pick up sound from the device and it immediately shows an error screen once capturing a constantly moving object (eg.: YouTube video).

You can check out our article on what to do when the screen record video feature is not working and see if you have better luck.

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

Allow Files on This Drive to Have Contents Indexed [Explained]

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

There are many things Windows as an OS platform does good. One of those is the manipulation of files and directories. The user interface is similar for ages, and it’s hard to argue about its intuitive nature.

Another thing which is rather useful is system search. Thanks to file indexing, the searches for obscure files in your local drives are not dull and lengthy.

If you ever wondered how it works and how to, if the need arises, disable it, make sure to check to continue reading and find out.

What does Allow files on this drive to have contents indexed.. mean?

Even though Windows 10 is the new star for a couple of years, this trick is part of Windows for ages.

File’s contents indexing is an old feature that is resourcefully implemented in order to speed up the search process of local files.

However, nowadays, we can question whether it’s useful or it’s really just slowing down your system due to not-perfect indexing times.

Here, we’re referring to everyday users and not the enterprises. Windows 10 focuses on files you frequently use and access.

So, it shouldn’t be an issue to let it be since it’s enabled by default and strictly focuses on certain directories and not every given file within the given partition.

How does it work?

It basically scans all accessed folders and subfolders contained within the partition. Then, it indexes them and, the next time you search for a file or a folder, the searching process is vastly faster.

The more files you commonly use and look for, the greater value of this nifty feature. The idea is to index files while the PC is idle, however, this isn’t the case for some users.

Namely, some of them reported frequent HDD usage spikes during the startup or while using some demanding applications.

This will, of course, affect the overall system performance. On the other hand, looking up for that one file in the directory with tens of thousands can be a slow-death experience, so have that in mind.

How can I enable or disable file indexing on the given partition?

1. Turn off indexing for a specific partition

allow files on this drive to have contents indexed in addition to file properties
  1. Open This PC or File Explorer.
  2. Right-click on the partition you want to relieve of indexing and open Properties.
  3. Uncheck the Allow files on this drive to have contents indexed in addition to file properties box.
  4. Restart your PC.

This feature is, by default, enabled on all your various partitions or drives. Including the external partitions connected to Windows 10 PC. Disabling it is as simple as possible.

Just navigate to This PC or File Explorer, right-click on the partition at hand and open Properties. What you want to do next is uncheck the Allow files on this drive to have contents indexed in addition to file properties box, as above mentioned.

2. Change indexing options

allow files on this drive to have contents indexed in addition to file properties
  1. In the Windows Search bar, type index and open Indexing Options.
  2. Click Modify to choose the directories you commonly access.
  3. Click Advanced and choose the File Types tab.
  4. Select file types you want to be indexed (or uncheck the ones you don’t see necessary) by checking the boxes.
  5. Confirm changes and restart your PC.

Another good thing you can do is make selective indexing. Meaning, the indexing will focus on directories you choose and it won’t take a toll on your HDD or processing power.

You can choose a certain file type to be indexed (this can come in handy if you have lots of photos), too. Also, you can exclude subdirectories or file extensions if you deem them redundant.

3. Use a dedicated tool

Copernic Desktop Search is a free search tool for file search on your own PC. The program searches MS Office, HTML, PDF, text and OpenOffice files.

Using categories it can distinguish between file categories such as music, photos, videos, or e-mails from Outlook or Mozilla programs.

Copernic Desktop Search currently supports over 119 different file types for indexing and previewing. This search file tool indexes better and finds more files than a regular Windows 10 search.

⇒ Get Copernic Desktop Search

In case you have something interesting to add, we encourage you to do so in the comments section below.

7 Best Nvidia Shield Browser Apps & How to Install [TV, Pro]

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

First things first: can the Nvidia Shield browse the Internet? Definitely. And now that we got that out of the way, let us show you how to get an Internet browser on Nvidia Shield.

Can you install apps on Nvidia Shield? It all comes down to the firmware and what OS Nvidia Shield runs. And it’s essentially an Android TV-based media player device.

You may not be able to install any app on Nvidia Shield but it can definitely run both standard Android and Android TV apps. We suppose there is another question that’s worth answering.

Does Nvidia shield have a web browser?

Interestingly, unlike many other devices, there is no pre-installed Internet browser on the Shield TV. However, this is not a deal-breaker since you can easily sideload and install one on the device.

You can view your locally stored media, stream from a PC, and use any desktop browser thanks to the device’s GameStream feature or cast your screen.

However, you may access the web on your Nvidia Shield TV as well. You just need to set up a suitable browser to accomplish this and we gathered the very best options right here:

  • Puffin TV – Best browser for Nvidia Shield (most compatible)
  • Opera – Fine-tuned browsing options for all devices
  • Chrome – Best for increased functionality
  • TVWeb Browser – Most compatible with Androids
  • Firefox – Best for Addons
  • TV Bro – Best for Android TV remote
  • Edge – Best for checking out mode

How do I browse the Internet with Nvidia?

1. Use Puffin TV Browser – Most compatible for Shield TV

Puffin TV Browser stands out among the competition because, unlike many alternatives, it is compatible with the standard remote that comes with the Nvidia Shield Android TV.

It’s not just a mobile Android app that has been repurposed; the Puffin TV Browser features a version specifically made for Android TV boxes. So, is Puffin TV browser free? Luckily so.

Puffin’s custom-designed UI makes it speedy and lightweight.

Additional features:

  • Chatbot
  • Remote phone control
  • Suit of browser options

⇒ Get Puffin TV browser

2. Use Opera – Fine-tuned options for all devices

Smooth browsing and a powerhouse of modern features tailored to adapt to each and every device from PC to mobile, Macs, TVs, and Chromebooks – that’s what you can expect from Opera.

This is not only an excellent Nvidia Shield browser, but also a great browser to use on Chromebooks or to install on Roku TV and that’s just to name a few.

It’s innovative and versatile and you can sideload the Opera apk with ease to browse the Internet on your Shield TV in a perfectly safe and customized environment that reflects your own habits, style, and needs.

Additional features:

  • Cross-device file sharing
  • Video pop-out and other media enhancements {integrated players, etc.)
  • Highly customizable (generous extensions store with Opera and Chrome addons available)

⇒ Get Opera

3. Use Chrome – Best for increased functionality

Does Nvidia work on Chrome? Perfectly even. But strangely, the Android TV OS doesn’t include Chrome by default. Don’t worry, we’ll show you exactly how to sideload Chrome on Nvidia Shield later on (in a step-by-step, detailed guide).

There are benefits and drawbacks to using this browser on Shield TV. On the plus side, if you already use Chrome, you can access all of your synchronized browsing history, bookmarks, and other material.

Chrome’s potential incompatibility with your current Android TV remote is one of its drawbacks, making it a bit more challenging to use than a few other solutions.

Additional features:

  • Organized tabs
  • Media controls
  • Profiles

⇒ Get Chrome

4. Use TVWeb Browser – Most compatible with Androids

The TVWeb Browser is a browser created especially for the Android TV OS.

The navigation is easy. You can access your bookmarks, preferred search engines, and the settings menu on the left pane of your screen.

TVWeb Browser features include bookmarking, an integrated voice search, your browser history, and an on-screen mouse pointer operatable with your standard Android TV remote.

Additional features:

  • User Agent switching
  • Customizable search engines

⇒ Get TVWeb Browser

5. Use Firefox – Best for Addons

best browser for Shield TV

Just like Chrome, you may sideload Firefox onto your Nvidia Shield. The best thing about it is that it’s one of those great browsers with AV1 video decoding support that will truly enhance your viewing experience.

But also, Firefox does not have a specific Nvidia Shield version.

Due to Google’s strict criteria for what constitutes a TV app, it is not available on the Shield. If you want to know how to install Firefox on Nvidia Shield, you can follow the same steps provided in our Chrome guide.

All you need is the APK file. That being said, Firefox users on Nvidia Shield cite the app’s addons as one of its key benefits.

Additional features:

  • Shields up for privacy
  • Dark mode
  • Collections

⇒ Get Firefox

6. Use TV Bro – Best for Android TV remote

best browser for Shield TV

The Android TV browser is created to integrate perfectly with the Android TV remote.

Additionally, there is access to your browser history, a simple download manager, and shortcut support.

TV Bro utilizes the rendering engine from Android and lets you change user agents.

Most significantly, TV Bro is an open-source application. That implies you may examine the app’s source code to see how it functions, confirm its security, and discover what information it gathers.

Additional features:

  • Support for bookmarks
  • Voice search support
  • Tabs

⇒ Get TV Bro

7. Use Edge – Best for checking out mode

best browser for Shield TV

We’ve put the Edge Browser on our list since it is widely renowned for its checking-out feature. Because Edge is built on Chromium, you can anticipate a comparable level of performance with more functionality.

Everything is accessible from one place; we love it because it has excellent sync features.

Additional features:

  • Bookmarks
  • Reading lists
  • Browser history

⇒ Get Edge

⭐ How do I install browser on Shield TV?

  1. Launch Google Play Store and search for Downloader.
  2. Click Install to install the Downloader by AFTVNews app.
    best browser for Shield TV
  3. Launch the Nvidia Shield downloader (Downloader by AFTVNews).
  4. Paste the link for the APK downloader plugin, and click Go.
  5. When prompted, click Install.
    best browser for Shield TV
  6. Again, launch the Downloader by AFTVNews.
  7. Paste the Chrome APK link (or the Opera apk link), then click Go.
  8. When prompted, click Install.

You should have Nvidia Shield browser Chrome adequately installed on your TV now.

Also, remember you can use ad-blocker apps to get the best viewing experience.

There you have it – the best Nvidia Shield browser options for Shield TV. We expect that your preferences should govern your decision.

Browsers that you have used in the past, like Edge or Chrome, may have an advantage because you can simply transfer your history and sync them across all devices.

How to Install Bluetooth Drivers on Windows 10

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Can’t find Bluetooth on your Windows 10 PC or having trouble connecting a device? You might be missing the correct Bluetooth driver. In this guide, we’ll show you how to install Bluetooth drivers on Windows 10 using four easy methods. These include Device Manager, Windows Update, downloading drivers manually, and using automatic driver installer software.

Whether your Bluetooth is not showing up in Device Manager or it suddenly disappeared from settings, these steps will help you fix it. No matter which method you choose, you’ll be able to restore Bluetooth functionality and connect your devices again in no time.

How can I install a Bluetooth driver on Windows 10?

Before you install any drivers on your PC, ensure you meet the following requirements:

1. Use Device Manager

  1. In the Search bar type Device Manager and select it from the list.
  2. Next, locate Bluetooth and expand the list.
  3. Right-click on the audio device listed and select Update driver.
  4. Click on Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your device at the end.

2. Update your OS

  1. Press Windows + I key simultaneously to open Settings.
  2. Here locate and click on Update & Security at the bottom of the list.
  3. Next, in the Windows Update tab click on Check for Updates.
  4. If a new update is found click on Install.
  5. Once the process finishes make sure to restart your device.

3. Download and install the driver

  1. Go to your manufacturer’s website and download the latest driver. (In this case Intel).
  2. Save the downloaded file on your device.
  3. Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
  4. Make sure to Restart your computer after the installation process is complete.

4. Use a dedicated software

The safest way of installing a missing driver without having to do much is using a third-party driver updater.

Tools of this sort have the ability to check the drivers installed on your device and detect whether you have any missing, outdated or corrupt drivers.

Then, with your approval, they’ll install all of those automatically. If you’re someone who doesn’t like keeping tabs on PC maintenance, using this type of software could save a lot of time and hassle.

Why are my Bluetooth drivers missing?

Most Windows devices come pre-installed with Bluetooth devices, but if for some reason they are not present in your PC, it could be one of the reasons below:

  • Outdated OS – If you’re running an old Windows device, it is possible that it is not optimized for the latest drivers. You can upgrade your OS or check for new updates.
  • Incompatible device – Not all devices will connect to your PC, or you may have downloaded the wrong driver.
  • Viruses/malware – Viruses and malware alter some critical functions of your device so ensure you have reliable antivirus installed.
  • Corrupt system files – If you have edited your registry wrongly, you may have some corrupt system files that prevent your drivers from functioning.

How to reinstall Bluetooth drivers on PC?

Just remove your drivers and re-install them picking one of the solutions above. For more details, check out this quick video:

Summary

There you have it. These are the recommended ways of installing a missing Bluetooth driver on your Windows 10 device.

We also share a step-by-step guide on how to uninstall your Bluetooth driver especially if it is corrupted. Also, here’s what to do if your Bluetooth is not detecting devices.

If you’re on Windows 11, we also have a guide on how to download Bluetooth driver for Windows 11, so don’t miss it.

If you’re still facing issues, check out our full guides on how to reinstall Bluetooth drivers on Windows 10 and Windows 11, or see how to fix the Bluetooth driver error code 28. You might also want to look into the latest Intel Bluetooth driver updates and news on Intel’s driver releases to stay up to date.

As always, if you have additional suggestions, don’t hesitate to leave us a comment in the dedicated section below.

SM Bus Controller Driver for Windows 11: 64 Bit Download

Posted on by Hasibul Kabir

You may face any SM Bus Controller error. However, when the driver is missing, it is a different issue. The device, SM Bus, is a small chipset that monitors the temperature, voltage, and other specific things of the Motherboard. You need a driver for this device to get accurate readings on your PC components and work properly with overclocking software.

How do I download the SM Bus Controller driver for Windows 11?

1. Download from Intel

  1. Download the Intel Chipset Software Installation Utility.
  2. Install it on your PC.
    installing intel chipset software installation utility.
  3. Open it.
  4. Now, it will detect the SM Bus Controller and let you install the proper driver.

After installing, restart your PC. You should also be able to download SM Bus Controller driver in Windows 7 32-bit with this method.

2. Download the driver using Device Manager

  1. Open the Start Menu, type device manager, and hit Enter.opening device manager windows 11
  2. Find and right-click on the SM Bus Controller and click on Update.updating sm bus controller device manager
  3. Choose the preferred way to update.
  4. Follow the onscreen steps to finish the process.

The built-in Device Manager method works fine when installing the SM Bus Controller driver for Windows 10 64-bit.

3. Use a third-party driver updater

The best way to download the SM Bus Controller driver for Windows 11 is by using third-party driver updating tools like Fortect Driver Updater. This tool can automatically detect any missing or outdated versions of drivers.

It has a huge database. As a result, you can download and install all of the drivers on your PC with just a single click. Otherwise, this tool can run scheduled scans and execute the driver update process automatically, which saves you time.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

The System Management Bus is a device developed by Intel that controls low-speed system management communication. Remember, you require an SM Bus Controller driver on Windows 7 64-bit as well. Though if you have a system with an AMD processor, you may not need this driver.

This article has featured how to download and install SM Bus Controller on Windows 11. Feel free to let us know in the comment box if you have any suggestions or opinions.

Laprxy.dll: How to Fix or Download It if It’s Missing

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Laprxy.dll is a Windows Dynamic Link Library file that contains information on how to manage the performance of your computer and how to interact with other programs, so this file must be kept up-to-date and functioning properly on your computer.

Unfortunately, sometimes these files can become corrupted or deleted due to several different reasons. This can cause issues in your operating system and make things difficult for you to use. If you encounter the laprxy.dll is missing error, we show you how to fix it.

Why is my laptop missing DLL files?

There can be various reasons why your laptop is missing some DLL files. These include:

  • Your computer has been infected with malware – Malware may have caused various problems, such as missing DLL files. This can stop you from running applications and software that you need to run.
  • You have installed an upgrade or new version of Windows – A new Windows version can change your system’s layout, meaning some old files may have been moved or deleted.
  • File modification – It is possible that the file was modified by an external party to make it incompatible with your operating system. This can happen if someone makes an unsupported change to the original DLL file.
  • Incompatibility – Apps tend to receive new updates and may no longer be compatible with the associated DLL files.

How can I fix Laprxy.dll if it is missing?

A few workarounds that may resolve the issue before you move to the slightly technical solutions include:

  • Ensure that your Windows is up-to-date.
  • Reinstall the app causing the issue if specified.
  • Try restarting your PC.

1. Run a DLL-fixer

If you have no idea how to repair files or commands to run to attempt to recover the missing DLL file, a DLL fixer tool should suffice. These tools are great for replacing and repairing any corrupt files.

Usually, they have a huge database which is a plus when it comes to finding replacements for the missing files, so you can rest assured that your DLL file will be repaired without you having to lift a finger.

2. Run DISM and SFC scans 

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each one: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth sfc /scannow
  3. Restart your PC.

3. Run a virus scan

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

4. Download the DLL file manually 

If you’re good at deciphering the right DLL file that is missing and can find the right version for your OS online, then downloading manually may be an option. If you choose this option, you must be careful with the site you download from.

Some sites, such as DLL-Files.com, have legitimate DLL files, while others cannot be trusted and can install malicious code in your system masquerading as the real thing. For this reason, you need a comprehensive antivirus solution that can detect such from a mile away.

5. Perform a System Restore

  1. Click the Search icon, type create restore point and click Open.
  2. Select the drive you wish to enable system restore for and click on Configure.
  3. Now select Turn on system protection. Set the Max Usage value and click on Apply and OK to save changes.
  4. Go back and repeat step 1.
  5. When the System Properties window opens, click on Create.system properties create restore point windows 11
  6. Enter the desired name for the restore point and then click the Create button.create a restore point windows 11 name
  7. Wait while Windows creates the restore point.
  8. Press the Windows + R keys, type rstui and hit Enter.
  9. Select the restore point you wish to revert to and click on Next.
  10. Now click on Finish.

6. Reset Windows

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. In the left window pane, select System, then click on Recovery on the right pane.
  3. Click on Reset PC from the right side.clicking reset PC win11 settings
  4. Choose the type of factory reset you need. You can keep your files or completely delete all the files, apps, and settings on the PC.
  5. Select the option you want to reinstall Windows: Cloud download or Local reinstall.
  6. Click on Next.
  7. Finally, press the Reset button.

The steps above apply to both laprxy.dll missing in Windows 10 and 11. Also, check out our detailed article in case your DDraw.dll file is missing, as we have covered various ways to restore it.

Let us know which method you tried and successfully solved this issue.

Steam Achievement Manager: How To Download & Use It in 2026

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

If you are a gamer, chances are that you buy and play games via Steam. In such a case, you would get several achievements to complete within the game, awarded by Steam.

Today, we’re going to show you a tool that will help you keep track of all your achievements, so let’s dive in.

Table of contents

What does Steam Achievement Manager do?

Steam Achievement Manager is a free application that gives you a one-stop shop to maintain all of your achievements in the game.

You can easily monitor and check all the achievements of the game and select them, play the game and unlock the achievements.

Hardcore Steam players can play the game and track every reward they have attached to their respective accounts.

The Steam Achievements Manager is an open-source program that lets you dive directly into an unlockable achievements mission. Do note that Steam did not endorse officially this manager. However, it is used by thousands across the globe since 2008.

Will Steam ban you for using the Achievement Manager tool?

There are several users skeptical about using this tool to manage their achievements. The good thing is that there have been no reports of a Steam player getting banned because of using the Steam Achievements Manager tool.

But you might still be a bit confused about whether to use this tool since it is not an official software coming from the house of Steam.

We would advise you to use this software with some caution and prevent being the first one to get banned from Steam.

If you are using the Achievements Manager tool to just display an achievement on your profile, that is fine. Now, if you think that the achievement unlocks an in-game item, that is tricky.

How do I download the Steam Achievement Manager?

  1. Visit this website. This is the official Steam Achievement Manager page on GitHub.
  2. Hit the Download latest release button.
  3. Under the Assets section, click on the SteamAchievementManager ZIP file.
  4. After the download finishes, you need to extract the files using unzip tools such as 7Zip, or WinRAR.
  5. Launch the SAM.Picker file. Do note that you need to run Steam before you launch this file.
  6. The manager will open and populate the home screen with all the tiles currently showing up on the Steam app.

Now that you have downloaded the Steam Achievement Manager tool on your PC, let us take a look at how you can use it to manage all of your achievements.

How do I use the Steam Achievement Manager?

  1. Launch the Steam application on your PC.
  2. Log in with your credentials to the Steam app.
  3. Launch the SAM tool on your computer.
  4. All the games connected to your Steam account will now get populated on the SAM tool.
  5. Double-click on the game that you want to get the achievement. You can also find the game using the game’s Steam ID.
  6. SAM will list all the achievements of the game.
  7. Click the box next to the achievement that you wish to unlock. You can select just one, or all just by a simple click.
  8. Once you have selected all of your achievements, click on the Commit Changes button at the top.
  9. You will see the achievement pop-up trigger on your Steam profile. If the Steam profile doesn’t show the achievements, you can go back and open the page back again, to see that it reflects the changes.
  10. SAM tool also lets you invert your choices, meaning you can lock your achievements using the same method, i.e., by deselecting the achievements from the list and hitting the Commit Changes button.

Why are my Steam Achievements not working?

Several users have reported that for them their achievements aren’t showing up on their profiles. If you are one of such users, then you can check out the few tips below to fix the problem.

  • Disable Steam offline mode: Head to Steam > Go Online from the top toolbar.
  • Check the achievement guide: Have you followed all the requirements to unlock an achievement? Chances are that you might have missed a few points, which is the reason, the achievements aren’t showing up on Steam. You can check out websites such as TrueSteamAchievements to know about the requirements to unlock achievements for Steam games.
  • Restart Steam: Well check if re-launching Steam makes any difference or not.
  • Disable third-party apps: If you are using a mod or third-party app, such as Steam Achievement Manager, then you should close them and check if this makes any difference.

If your Steam achievements aren’t appearing, you can find solutions for Steam achievements not showing up in-game in our dedicated guide.

FAQ

What is Steam Achievement Manager?

It’s a tool that allows users to unlock, modify, and manage Steam achievements without playing the game.

Is it safe to use Steam Achievement Manager?

It’s not officially supported by Steam and can lead to penalties or account suspension.

How do I use Steam Achievement Manager?

Download and launch SAM, log into your Steam account, then unlock achievements from the game list.

Can I unlock achievements for any Steam game using SAM?

Most games work, but some with anti-cheat systems or Steamworks integration may not.

We have a guide that will help you verify the integrity of game files not working on Steam. Also, you can check out our dedicated guide on the Steam error joining multiplayer session that lists 5 effective solutions to fix the problem.

Let us know in the comments if you like our Steam Achievement Manager guide that gives you a proper explanation of how you can download and use it in 2022.

JNLP File Not Opening? Here’s How to Fix It!

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

JNLP file not opening? You’re not alone. The issue usually stems from Java errors, file associations, or other settings. Bellow, we’ll help you address all those problems. Let’s dive in.

How do I open a JNLP file?

1. Manually with Java WS

  1. Download JRE, run the setup, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  2. Once done, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.
  3. Now, right-click on the JNLP file, and select Properties.properties
  4. Click on the Change button.change file association to fix JNLP file not opening
  5. Click Choose an app on your PC.choose an app on the PC
  6. Navigate the following path (the JRE version may be different in your case):C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jre1.8.0_361\bin
  7. Select jawaws, and then click Open.jawaws when JNLP file not opening
  8. Now, with the jawaws entry selected, click on Set default.set default
  9. Finally, click on Apply and then OK to save the changes.apply

So if you were wondering how to run a JNLP file in Java, this should do. Also, if the JNLP file was not opening with JavaWS earlier, reconfiguring the file association as we did earlier should do the trick.

2. With a text editor

  1. Right-click on the file, hover the cursor over Open with, and select Notepad.notepad when JNLP file not opening
  2. If the option isn’t available right away, you can click on Choose another app earlier, and then select Notepad or Notepad++.notepad

For those wondering how to open JNLP file without Java, you can always use Notepad. Though remember, here, you can only view the content. Also, you can use Notepad++, an open-source software that allows tabbed editing for enhanced workability.

3. Via Command Prompt

  1. Select a link on the page that refers to a .jnlp file. If your browser does not have the correct association to run Web Start applications, select the install_dir/jre/bin/javas command from the Open/Save window to start the Web Start application.
  2. Now, press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.cmd
  3. Next, in the command prompt, type the following command and hit Enter while replacing <path> with the location of the .jnlp file:Javaws <path>command

How to automatically open Java Web Start Application JNLP files?

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, select Apps from the navigation pane, and click on Default apps.default apps
  2. Search for .jnlp in the text field, and click on the relevant result.file association to fix JNLP file not opening
  3. Now, select Java Web Start Launcher, and click on Set Default.java web start launcher

This way, you can set the default file association for JNLP files, and they will automatically launch using Jawa Web Start Launcher the next time. Also, if the JNLP file is not opening in the browser, you can always download it and use Java WS to access it.

Java errors, such as error code 1618 or issues with outdated Java, and JNLP files not opening are common. But with the fixes above, you can address these problems and get things running smoothly again.

For any other queries or to share other methods, use the comments section below.

Xbox and Lucasfilm celebrate The Mandalorian Season 3 with special game gear giveaways

Posted on by Robert Collins

The Mandalorian Season 3 launches today, March 1st on Disney+. And to celebrate the occasion Xbox and Lucasfilm have partnered to bring fans of both Star Wars and gaming a special promotion with lots of giveaways.

The big prize on offer during this giveaway is a Mandalorian-themed Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S bundle, with a custom Grogu Xbox controller and hoodie in addition to the limited edition consoles.

All you have to do to enter the sweepstakes for this prize is retweet with the hashtag #TheMandalorianXboxSweepstakes.

The sweepstakes runs worldwide from March 1 through May 11.

The Mandalorian streams exclusively on Disney+.

The journeys of the Mandalorian through the Star Wars galaxy continue. Once a lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin has reunited with Grogu. Meanwhile, the New Republic struggles to lead the galaxy away from its dark history. The Mandalorian will cross paths with old allies and make new enemies as he and Grogu continue their journey together.

Check out the final trailer for Season 3 below.

Featured image via Xbox Wire. 

 

Your Credentials Could Not Be Verified: 5 Quick Fixes

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Many users reported Your credentials couldn’t be verified error message while trying to use a PIN to sign in to Windows 10.

This can be a big inconvenience, especially if Windows forgets network credentials, but there’s a way to fix this problem, and today we’ll show you how to do it.

What does it mean when it says Your credentials could not be verified?

This issue can prevent you from logging in to your account, and it’s usually caused by the following:

  • Privacy settings – Sometimes, your operating system isn’t properly configured, which can cause this issue. To fix this, you need to change privacy settings.
  • Windows Hello – Windows Hello errors can cause this problem. To fix it, simply disable and enable this feature.

How can I fix the Your credentials could not be verified?

1. Change Privacy settings

  1. Sign in with your account password instead of a PIN.
  2. Now open the Settings app and go to Privacy.
  3. From the left pane, select Account Info. In the Choose which apps can access your account info section, enable Email and accounts and Microsoft Content.
    choose apps to access your account info Windows credentials could not be verified
  4. After doing that, check if the problem is still there.

2. Disable Windows Hello

  1. Open the Settings app and navigate to the Accounts.
  2. Go to Sign-in options and disable all Windows Hello options.
    windows hello Windows credentials could not be verified
  3. Restart your PC.
  4. Log in with the administrator account and enable Windows Hello once again.
  5. Set up your PIN once again.
  6. Check if the issue is still there.

This is a simple solution, but it can help if your credentials could not be verified while using fingerprint or Windows Hello.

3. Click Cancel when the error message appears

  1. Wait for the error message to appear on your screen.
  2. Now click the Cancel button.
  3. After doing that, you should be able to log in to Windows 10.
Note icon NOTE
A few users reported that this workaround worked for them, so it might not work for you.

4. Log in using Safe Mode

  1. Once you reach the login screen, click the Power button, press and hold the Shift key and choose Restart from the menu.
  2. Now select Troubleshoot.
  3. After that, go to Advanced options.
  4. Select the Startup Settings. If this option isn’t available, select See more recovery options.
  5. Now click the Restart.

  6. Once the PC restarts, select any version of Safe Mode by pressing the corresponding keyboard key.
  7. If you can log in in Safe Mode, you might want to remove your PIN for an affected account for the time being.

By doing so, you should be able to fix the Windows credentials could not be verified error.

5. Use diskpart command

  1. While your system boots, press Ctrl + Alt + Del before the spinning circles appear.
  2. Press Ctrl + Alt + Del a second time as soon as the boot logo appears.
  3. If this doesn’t work, you’ll need to boot from installation media and press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt.
  4. Now run the following commands:
    diskpart
     
    list volume

    exit

Apparently, this issue appears because the CurrentControlSet key already exists. By using this solution, the problem should be gone.

This solution can come in handy if you get The system could not log you on your credentials could not be verified message, so be sure to try them.

How do I verify my Microsoft credentials?

  1. Press Windows key + S and enter credential. Select Credential Manager from the list of results.
  2. Credential Manager window will now appear. Go to Windows Credentials.
  3. From there, you can view and verify your credentials.

There you go. These are some simple solutions you can use if you encounter Your credentials could not be verified CAC error message.

This isn’t the only error, and many reported that Credential Manager isn’t working at all, but we covered that issue in a separate guide.

Feel free to try all our solutions and let us know which tip worked for you.

How to Open JAR Files in Windows 11: 3 Easy Methods

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Some of our readers have recently requested to know the workarounds on how to open JAR files in Windows 11.

While this may be easy for some users, we have provided this simplified step-by-step guide. Ensure to work your way through any of the steps provided below.

What is a JAR file?

A JAR file is an archiving package format that stores directories and source files. JAR files are similar and can be run as executable files, however, they require the Java framework to run.

Although you can extract JAR with archiving software, you can’t run a pure Java JAR app as you would with other programs in Windows.

Simply, a JAR file contains a compressed version of .class files, audio files, image files, or directories.

How can I open JAR files in Windows 11?

If you don’t readily have Java on your PC, you’ll need to download it, as it is the only way a JAR file can run on Windows PC.

The following are some of the simple step-by-step instructions on how to open JAR files in Windows 11.

1. Use CMD to open a JAR file

  1. Left-click on Start on your Taskbar, type cmd in the Search box, and choose Run as administrator from the options to run Command Prompt with full privileges.
  2. Then type the following command line in the text field: java -jar c:\pathtojarfile.jar
  3. Make sure to replace pathtofile in the example above with the actual path of the file you need to run. Next, press Enter.
  4. The executable JAR file will then be opened if it contains a manifest file that specifies the application’s entry point (the developers should have already included that in the archive).

The command-line program is essential for installing and debugging apps, but if it doesn’t work, find out how to fix Command Prompt in Windows.

2. Double-click to open a JAR file on Windows 11

  1. Press the Windows + E keys to start File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the folder where the JAR file(s) you need to run.
  3. Next, right-click on the JAR file you wish to open and select Open with from the context menu.
  4. Then, select Choose another app.
  5. From the list of options, select Open with and choose Java(TM) Platform SE binary.
  6. Next, click the Always use this app to open .jar files checkbox, then press the OK button to close the menu.

Now you can open the selected JAR, and all other JAR files in Java by merely double-clicking on them.  

3. Create a .bat file

  1. Press the Windows + E keys to launch File Explorer.
  2. Tap on the three-dots menu icon from the options at the top. From the drop-down options, select Options.
  3. Select the View tab from the Folder Options window’s menu when it appears.
  4. Scroll down to Hide extensions for known file types under Advanced settings, and then uncheck the box next to it.
  5. Click OK to save the changes. The file names will now include the file extensions as well.
  6. Navigate to the folder containing your JAR file now, launch Notepad there, and enter the following text: java -jar yourfilename.jar 
  7. Make sure to substitute the name of the.jar file for your file name.
  8. Save the file with the .bat extension.

After following the above steps, every time you double-click the BAT file, it will take you to the JAR file and run it accordingly.

And that’s how to open or run JAR files in Windows 11. Alternatively, users can install a third-party JAR executor to Windows 11 by visiting the JARX website to download the Jarx-1.2-installer.exe file.

You can also check our detailed guide on other software for opening JAR files.

Additionally, if your JAR files are not opening well, you can follow our detailed guide on how to fix the issue.

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

Chat GPT Oops an Error Occurred: 3 Simple Fixes

Posted on by Afam Onyimadu

You probably came across the error message Oops, an error occurred, if this issue persists, please contact us through our help center at help.openai.com. This error usually occurs because GPT doesn’t understand the prompt you inserted, or there is a connection problem from the server or your network. It’s also possible that you’ve reached the API limit or the model exceeded the memory limit and cannot provide an answer.

Before applying the solutions below, make sure that you have a steady internet connection and check the Open AI website to see if there are any downtime or scheduled maintenance. If you are trying to generate large text, try breaking the input into smaller chunks and try again.

How do I fix an Error Occurred message on ChatGPT?

1. Check your API limit 

If you are using the API, you may have reached the API limit. Some plans have a limited number of requests that can be made per month.

an error occurred. if this issue persists please contact us through our help center at help.openai.com.

You can check the usage of your API by visiting your OpenAI Dashboard and checking if you have reached the limit.

2. Check the input format 

Ensure that the input you provide to the model is in the correct format. If the input is not formatted correctly, the model may not understand it and will return an error message. Some essential elements to keep in mind when providing input to the model include:

  • The input should be a string of text.
  • Your input should be encoded in UTF-8.
  • The input should not contain any special characters or non-printable characters.

3. Contact OpenAI Support

  1. Navigate to the contact page on your browser.
  2. Click the message icon at the bottom right corner and select the Send us a message button.
    an error occurred. if this issue persists please contact us through our help center at help.openai.com.
  3. Type your message and send it.

It’s essential to give them as much information as possible about the error message, such as the input you provided and the steps you took to troubleshoot the issue.

In conclusion, the error message an error occurred, if this issue persists please contact us through our help center at help.openai.com can be caused by several factors, such as incorrect input format or a temporary technical issue.

For another common issue, check our dedicated guide on the Chat GPT error in message stream, which explains how to fix responses being cut off unexpectedly.

However, following the above steps, you can troubleshoot and fix the issue. Finally, please let us know what worked for you in the comments below.

Excel Not Scrolling Smoothly: Fix It in 5 Simple Steps

Posted on by Claire Moraa

If you are using Excel and the scrolling is not working as it should be, there could be several reasons. It could be that your computer is too old or too slow. But in most cases, Excel will not scroll smoothly because of an error in the program. 

We’ve already covered steps on what to do if Excel is not scrolling at all, so if you see that your spreadsheet is not scrolling smoothly, stay put as this article takes you through how to fix this problem with Excel.

Why is my Excel sheet not scrolling smoothly?

If you’re wondering why scrolling in Excel is excruciatingly slow or buggy, below are some possible reasons:

  • Outdated versions – It is possible that your Excel program is outdated and not optimized for your current Windows version hence the inconsistencies.
  • Program interference – If an application on your computer blocks other programs from running, this will also affect the smoothness of scrolling in Excel sheets. 
  • Too many rows/columns – If you have a large document with many rows and columns, they can slow down your computer’s performance and hence interfere with scrolling.
  • Not enough memory – If your computer or laptop doesn’t have enough memory, then it won’t be able to process all of the formulas in your spreadsheet quickly enough, and therefore it won’t be able to scroll smoothly through them all. 
  • Too many formulas in your workbook – If too many formulas are being calculated at once, this may slow down the whole process. This is because they are being processed one by one, which takes time to complete.
  • Your Excel sheet has a lot of data – If your Excel sheet has a lot of data, such as images, tables, and graphs, it can take a longer time to scroll through it. 
  • Old OS – You may have a new version of Excel, but if you’re still using an old version of Windows, the program may have difficulty matching up to old software.

How do I stop Excel from jumping cells when scrolling?

A few workarounds that may resolve the issue before you proceed to the complex solutions include:

  • Try cleaning your mouse and mouse pad to ensure no debris could interfere with scrolling.
  • Close any background apps that may be hogging the RAM.
  • Close and re-open Excel.
  • Free up hard drive space to ensure you have enough memory.
  • Ensure your Windows is up-to-date.

1. Adjust the Mouse speed 

  1. Hit the Search icon, type Mouse Settings, and click Open.
  2. Click on Additional mouse settings.
  3. Navigate to the Pointer Options tab in the Mouse Properties window that pops up.
  4. Under Motion, hover the mouse to a speed of your preference.
  5. Also click the checkbox next to Enhance pointer precision to stabilize the cursor.

2. Disable Excel Add-ins

  1. Launch Excel, and click on the File menu.file
  2. Click on More, and then select Options from the flyout menu.options to fix Microsoft Excel is waiting for another application to complete an OLE action
  3. Go to the Add-ins tab, and with Excel Add-ins selected in the Manage dropdown menu, click on Go.Excel add-ins
  4. Now, uncheck all the add-ins listed here, and click on OK to save the changes.disable add-ins to fix Microsoft Excel is waiting for another application to complete an OLE action
  5. Again, go to the Add-ins tab, choose COM Add-ins from the dropdown menu, and click Go.COM add-ins
  6. Go back and disable any remaining Add-ins.disable COM add-ins to fix Microsoft Excel is waiting for another application to complete an OLE action

3. Disable hardware acceleration 

  1. Launch Excel, click on Files in the top menu bar, then select Options from the menu on the left.
  2. Select the Advanced option.
  3. Go to Display, check the box for Disable hardware graphics acceleration, and click on OK to save the changes.
  4. Close and restart Excel, then try scrolling and see if you can.

4. Update graphic drivers 

  1. Click on the Windows button, type Device Manager in the search bar and click Open.device manager w11
  2. Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.Graphic Driver Update
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers.

An automatic tool may come in handy to complete this step faster and reduce the chances of ending up with the wrong driver. 

Outbyte Driver Updater is a free tool that lets you scan and update your PC’s drivers with a single click. It’s fast, easy to use, and requires no complicated steps or configuration.

5. Repair Microsoft Excel

  1. Click on the Start menu icon and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Type Control Panel in the search bar and click Open.control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  3. Go to Programs and select Uninstall a Program.going uninstall program control panel
  4. Now, click Microsoft Office and select Change.change
  5. Finally, click Online Repair, then select Repair.online repair to fix Microsoft Excel is waiting for another application to complete an OLE action
  6. Alternatively, you can click on Windows Settings, select Apps, then click on Apps & features.
  7. Locate Microsoft Excel/Office, click on the three ellipses and select Advanced options.
  8. Next, click on Repair.
  9. Once the repair process is complete, restart your computer and check whether the issue still occurs.

And that’s how to fix the issue of Excel not scrolling smoothly on your Windows PC. You may also encounter an issue where you’re unable to type in Excel but worry not, as our detailed guide adequately covers fixes for it.

We also have answers to when Excel fails to print, so be sure to check out our article.

We’d love to hear from you on what solution fixed this issue, so leave us a comment below.

Xbox One Black Screen: What Causes & How to Fix

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Since its release in 2013, Xbox One has become one of the most popular gaming consoles in the world, but it is not without its faults. One such is the Xbox One black screen of death, a glitch that usually happens after an Xbox Insider update.

The BSoD error affects how the dashboard loads from the web, causing some sections to appear black therefore making the console inoperable. So, let’s find out all about it and the solutions that work.

Why is my Xbox screen completely black?

The Black Screen of Death error is usually the result of a glitch in the console dashboard. This could happen if the system doesn’t load the dashboard correctly after starting from rest mode.

Like any device during startup, the Xbox console operates a full system check on every hardware component to validate the software.

If the system fails to run the startup process, the PC will display a black screen instead of the well-known Xbox animation.

Faulty updates are also a potential culprit. Bugs can interfere with the way your console works, and this can result in a BSoD error.

Quite a few users have taken to Twitter about this issue, stating that the newest update caused their screen to go black:

How do I fix various black screen issues on the Xbox One?

Various quick methods may help you fix the Xbox One BSoD issue, so before moving on to the actual solutions, you should try them:

  • Press RT + Y to get control over your console. Just start up your Xbox One, and once the pins begin to move, simultaneously press RT and Y.
  • Try to press PSA – RT +LT + Y to refresh your dashboard and the Game Store. This will restart the console.
  • Open the guide, choose Home, and then navigate to another tab away from the main dashboard to prevent the bug from occurring.
  • You can also set your console to offline mode by disconnecting from Xbox Live.
  • Disconnect any external hard drive and plug it back in.
  • Try switching off the Xbox, hold down the eject and bind buttons and switch the Xbox on while holding them down. You’ll hear the chirps as the power comes on, and the Xbox will give you the option to factory reset.
  • Unplug the satellite or cable box from Xbox One, and hold the power button on the console for 10 seconds until it turns off. When you turn it on, Xbox should allow you to access the menu.

If nothing worked, move to the solutions listed next:

1. Black screen after returning to Home

  1. Hold down the Xbox button on the front of the console for roughly 10 seconds to turn off the console.Xbox console button
  2. Press the Xbox button on the console or the Xbox button on your Xbox One wireless controller to turn the console back on.

2. Black screen when watching a Blu-ray Disc

  1. Press the Xbox button on your wireless controller to open the guide.Xbox controller button
  2. Navigate to Profile & system, then to Settings.Xbox settings
  3. Select Display & sound.Xbox Display & sound
  4. Choose the Video output option.Xbox Video output
  5. Then select Enable 24Hz to turn off this setting.

3. Use an AVR in your setup

  1. Switch on your devices in the following order:
    1. Turn on your television first.
    2. Once your television is displaying a picture, turn on the AVR.
    3. Turn on your Xbox One console.
  2. Turn the input source of AVR away from Xbox One and then back to HDMI or HDMI2, and then back to HDMI1 again using the Input button on your television’s remote control.
  3. Reboot the AVR.
  4. Set your TV connected to HDMI:
    • Press the Xbox button to open the guide.Xbox controller button
    • Go to Settings and select the Display & sound option.Xbox Display & sound
    • Select Video output.Xbox Video output
    • Go to TV connection.
    • Select the HDMI option.

4. Request a repair

  1. Go to the official support page for Xbox and sign into your Microsoft account.log into microsoft account
  2. Select the Problem with a device.
  3. Under For which device? choose your Xbox One console or register it.microsoft account - devices xbox one
  4. Check the warranty status for your device. If your console is out of warranty, you’ll be charged a fee.
  5. Click on Display Issue and select Next.
  6. On the next page, provide details of the issue in the Describe your problem field.
  7. Based on the problem described, you need to create a service order to replace your device, and click Next.
  8. Follow the steps to complete your service order.

5. Perform a hard reset

Note icon NOTE
This procedure will erase all accounts, saved games, settings, and home Xbox associations. You’ll have to re-install your games, but saved data will return when the specific game is installed.
    1. Press the Xbox button on your console to open the menu.
    Xbox console button

  2. 2. Navigate to Profile & system, then to Settings.

    Xbox settings

  3. 3. Go to System and select Console Info.

  4. 4. Select the option Reset Console.

    Reset console option

    5. If the Xbox is connected to your computer, the problem might not lie there. A general BSoD troubleshooting tool will quickly help you in this case.

     

How can I fix black screen after turning on the Xbox console?

  • Ensure your TV is set to the correct input signal (HDMI).
  • Ensure that the HDMI cable connection to your console is secure.
  • Check that the HDMI cable connection to your TV is secure.
  • Make sure that the HDMI cable is connected to the out-to-TV port on the console.
  • Perform a cold boot on your Xbox One console by holding the Power button on the front for 10 seconds and then turning it on again.
  • You can also reset your display settings:
    1. If there’s a disc in the Xbox One console, remove it.
    2. Press and hold the Xbox button on the console for five seconds to turn it off.Xbox console button
    3. Press and hold the Xbox button and the Eject button until you hear a beep to turn on the console. You will hear one beep right away and a second beep 10 seconds later. Note that this will boot your console in low-resolution mode, 640 × 480. You can reset this setting through Settings > Display & sounds > Video options > TV Resolution.
    4. Change your TV connected to HDMI if you are required to complete these steps on every boot-up.
  • Connect the HDMI cable to a different HDMI port on your TV.
  • Use a different HDMI cable to connect your console to your TV.
  • Connect your console to a different TV.

What are the most common Xbox One errors?

Besides the Black Screen of Death error in Xbox One, users have reported numerous other issues with their console.

One that made the rounds over the Internet quite a few times is the Took too long to start message that can stop users from starting their games and apps.

If you’ve also encountered it, start by checking the status of Xbox Live services or restart your console to fix it.

Another issue with the Xbox One console is the grinding sound the disc drive makes when inserting a game, movie, or any disk in the console’s optical drive.

Fortunately, users facing this problem can return the hardware by contacting Microsoft and asking for a replacement.

One of the most common issues with Xbox One is updates. If Xbox doesn’t install updates, there might be a problem with the Internet connection, but it’s safe to clear the system cache.

Source: Reddit

Another frequent error being reported by Xbox users is that the system won’t turn on or off. Resetting your power supply might be the key to getting rid of this issue, but it is not the only thing that can fix it.

While there are many issues with the Xbox One, you know you can count on us to provide you with the latest solutions.

And while we are talking about the console, check out the best games on Xbox and play them today!

After applying the above tips, the BSoDs on Xbox One should no longer bug you. Do you know of other fixes to take into consideration? Let us know in the comments section below.

PUBG packet loss: How to fix it [2026 Guide]

Posted on by Vlad Constantinescu

PUBG is one of the most popular games on the market and contributed to increasing the popularity of battle royale games by a great deal. First of all, it’s worth mentioning that PUBG is an online game.

Therefore, you need an Internet connection to enjoy it, and there’s no other way around it. Up to 100 players (including yourself) can participate in the battle royale. This game mode is actually a last man standing deathmatch.

If you’re the last player alive, you win the match. It’s as simple as that.

However, the fact that you can’t enjoy PUBG offline with bots, for instance, can be problematic, especially if your connection isn’t exactly great. Many players complain about issues such as high ping, packet loss, or even jitters every now and then.

These can seriously affect gameplay and cause problems such as rubberbanding, extreme lag spikes, and even sudden disconnections due to high ping. One of the most common issues to this day is packet loss.

What is packet loss in PUBG?

Packet loss is the inability of data fragments (packets) to reach their destination point. In PUBG, packet loss can mean that packets you send towards the PUBG servers never make it to their destination, or that server packets never make it to you.

These events usually end up in full-blown de-syncing issues, which can get you kicked out of the game, so as to preserve the connection quality for other players.

It’s kinda frustrating when you think you got a clean headshot, only to discover that your arch-nemesis is rubberbanding all across the map. It’s even worse for him, but you get the picture.

It gets even more annoying when you get to understand that sometimes packet loss occurs randomly. Furthermore, it often solves by itself as quickly as it happened, and there’s no immediate fix for it.

However, by understanding what packet loss is and what causes it, we can make sure that we create the perfect environment so that the incidence of this unwanted phenomenon stays at a minimum.

What causes packet loss with PUBG?

The truth is that generally speaking packet loss doesn’t discriminate. So if it happens with PUBG, it probably happens with other services, as well. But not if the packet loss is on the server’s side, that’s a whole nother story.

Thus, you must understand one thing: a lot of things can cause packet loss. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the most common causes of packet loss:

  • Overloaded networks: a high volume of traffic, especially if there are several routes between multiple devices
  • Device instability: weak CPUs for network devices can even affect other similar neighboring devices
  • Hardware and/or software malfunctions: if your equipment, be it hardware or software, is glitching, it can take a toll on the entire network and cause packet loss
  • Poorly configured routers or PCs: if your PC isn’t properly configured to withstand a high-speed connection, you might end up losing packets, and the same goes for your router
  • Bad ISP: if your ISP delivers a poor service on a poorly routed network, this might also be a common cause of losing packets
  • Using Wi-Fi over Ethernet: if you choose Wi-Fi over a wired connection, interference might cause connection drops and packet leaks
  • Server issues: the server you’re connecting to (PUBG server, in this case) may be leaking packets, but in this case, all players should experience the same thing you are

There you have it. Although most of these reasons don’t apply exclusively to PUBG, this list can help you understand better where to look in case you’re experiencing packet loss.

How to view packet loss in PUBG?

  1. Launch PUBG
  2. Open the main menu
  3. Go to SettingsSettings menu PUBG
  4. Switch to the Gameplay tab
  5. Scroll down to Network Debug Statistics
  6. Toggle it on by using the combo menuGameplay settings in PUBG
  7. Click the Apply buttonPUBG HUD packet loss

You should now be able to see your ping, down/up speed values, and packet loss percentage. However, you should be aware that some players reported seeing high values in those sections (i.e. pkt loss) even though their gameplay seemed unaffected.

How to fix PUBG packet loss?

1. Use a VPN

  1. Download ExpressVPN and install it on your PC.
  2. Open the app and login with your credentials.
  3. Launch it and select a server from the recommended server list.
  4. Launch PUBG.
  5. Check if the problem still persists.

It’s worth mentioning that this method will only fix your packet loss issue if it’s caused by your ISP. If the problem is with you or the game server, a VPN won’t help you and will probably only make matters worse.

If you want to make sure before trying it, you can run a ping test on google.com and check the packet loss there. Our comprehensive guide will tell you all about packet loss and how to perform a packet loss test.

ExpressVPN

Bypass ISP throttling and enjoy the battle arena game without FPS drops or lags.
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If you want to make sure before trying it, you can run a ping test on google.com and check the packet loss there. Our comprehensive guide will tell you all about packet loss and how to perform a packet loss test.

2. Troubleshoot your connection

  1. Perform a packet loss test (use our guide to help you)Packet loss analysis Windows with tracert and pathping
  2. Isolate the hop that’s experiencing packet loss
  3. Try solving the issue accordingly (e.g. check your cables, call your ISP, configure your router, etc)

Remember that there’s no magic fix for packet loss. However, you can achieve great results if you perform complete troubleshooting instead of trying quick fixes that you find on the Internet, which might even break your computer or connection.

Packet loss in PUBG can be fixed, or better yet avoided

As we’ve mentioned above, steer away from quick fixes’ false promises. If you want to fix packet loss, try making sure that your connection is in its best condition.

If you’re not sure about performing certain tests, it’s better to call your ISP than trying to install miracle tools on your PC.

Using a VPN can, and probably will fix your packet loss issue but only if it’s on your ISP side. If the problem’s with you or the PUBG server you want to connect to, using a VPN won’t do anything to improve your situation.

Microsoft Forms not Sending Email Notifications: 3 Fixes

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Sometimes, you may not be able to get email notifications in Microsoft Forms.

Your comments to Group Forms, such as those you develop in Microsoft Teams, may not be received via email.

If your Microsoft Forms are not sending group email notifications, read on to find out how to fix this issue. 

Why am I not getting email notifications from Microsoft Forms?

Microsoft forms not sending email notifications can be caused by the email notification settings not being enabled or notification settings not being set. 

Can Microsoft Forms notification of each response?

Yes, Microsoft Forms can get notifications of each response. You can enable this feature from the group settings by clicking the email notification of each response option.

What can I do if Microsoft Forms is not sending notifications?

1. Set up email notifications 

  1. Log in to your Microsoft Forms account.
  2. Once you’ve signed into Forms, scroll down to My Groups.
  3. Go to the bottom of the page and click on My Groups.
  4. Choose the group for whom you’d like to receive them.
  5. Select the group for which you’d want to receive email alerts.
  6. On the right side of the screen, you will see the number of group members in the group. When you tap on the number, the group email page in Outlook opens on the web. 
  7. Groups can be edited by clicking the Edit button above the group’s name in Outlook. 
  8. Click on Let people outside the organization email the groups, and Members will receive all group conversations and events in their inboxes. 
  9. Open Microsoft Forms, and click on the ellipsis button on your computer screen’s right side.
  10. Click on Settings.
  11. Click on the Get email notifications of each response option. 
  12. Save your changes.

2. Global administrator method of setting up email notifications

  1. Go to Groups, then Active groups in the Microsoft 365 admin center.
  2. When selecting a group, go to the Settings tab and make changes.
  3. Click on the Allow external senders to email this group and Send copies of group conversations and events to group members boxes. 

3. Turn on the notification of each response

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Click on Options for responses.
  3. Click on Email notification of each response and save your changes.

If you’re experiencing additional Microsoft Forms issues, you can read our article to learn how to fix them. Finally, you can check out another guide if you have problems with file uploads.

Thank you for reading, and don’t forget to comment below!

OneDrive High CPU: Here’s how to Fix it

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

OneDrive changed considerably in the last years, and mostly for good. However, an issue here and there can certainly ruin all of OneDrive’s positive features.

For example, the OneDriveSetup.exe (OneDrive installer) works in the background and allegedly feasts on your CPU.

While this cannn be frustrating just like the can’t access OneDrive issue, we have prepared 5 solutions to help you restrain this horrid misuse of your resources. So, without further ado, check the list below and follow the steps closely.

How do I reduce OneDrive’s high CPU usage?

1. Delete Telemetry logs

    1. Right-click the Start icon and select the Task Manager option
    task manager onedrive high cpu usage

  2. 2. Go to the Processes tab, locate OneDriveSetup.exe or just OneDrive, right-click it, and select End task.

    end

  3. 3. Follow this path: C:Users/<Your Username>/AppData/Local/Microsoft/OneDrive/setup/logs

    log onedrive high cpu usage

  4. 4. In the logs folder, locate and delete the parentTelemetryCache.otc.session and userTelemetryCache.otc.session files.

    parent

  5. 5. Restart your computer.

  6. 6. Navigate to path below and run the OneDrive.exe installer: C:UsersUsernameAppDataLocalMicrosoftOneDrive.

This strange occurrence is, believe it or not, related to telemetry. While installing OneDrive, the setup tries to check the telemetry logs hidden in the AppData folder. That isn’t the problem per se, and it shouldn’t affect CPU usage.

The real problem starts if your username isn’t written exclusively in English/ASCII values. Basically, the presence of a single alternative letter or sign in your username (Cyrillic or language-specific) and the OneDrive installer won’t be able to access the telemetry files.

Nonetheless, that sole fact won’t prevent the installer from trying over and over and over again. And that will take a toll on the CPU.

For such a minor thing to cause such over-consumption of CPU is absurd, but then again, this is Windows we’re referring to. In order to resolve this problem, you’ll need to get rid of those telemetry files (they aren’t of any use anyway).

2. Restart OneDrive

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Task Manager option.
    task manager onedrive high cpu usage
  2. Right-click the OneDrive option and select End task.
    end task onedrive high cpu usage
  3. Finally, press the Windows key, type onedrive, and select the OneDrive option to relaunch the app.
    one

Sometimes, the OneDrive high CPU usage issue might be a minor issue caused by some glitches. In this case, the best thing to do is restart the app.

3. Unlink and relink the account

  1. Right-click the cloud icon on your taskbar and click the gear icon in the top right corner.
  2. Select the Settings option.
    settings gear
  3. Now, click the Account tab at the top and select the Unlink this PC option.
    unlink this onedrive high cpu usage
  4. Click the Unlink account button to confirm the action.
    unlink account
  5. Finally, press the Windows key, type one, click OneDrive, and follow the onscreen instructions to relink your account.
    one

If restarting OneDrive does not curb the high CPU usage, you might need to unlink and relink your account. This should restart the sync processes and other things that can lead to the problem.

4. Reinstall OneDrive

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type control, and select Control Panel.
    control panel onedrive high cpu usage
  2. Choose Uninstall a program under the Programs option.
    uninstall a
  3. Now, right-click the OneDrive option and select Uninstall.
    uninstall
  4. Restart your PC, press the Windows key + E to launch File Explorer and go to the location below: C:Users/Username/AppData/Local/Microsoft/OneDrive/Update/OneDriveSetup.exeonedrive high cpu
  5. Right-click OneDriveSetup.exe and choose to run as administrator.
  6. After the installation is finished, insert your credentials and log in.

If the OneDrive process is still causing high CPU usage, you might need to uninstall and reinstall the app.

Before the Creators Update, Windows 10 users could not delete or reinstall OneDrive. Luckily, Microsoft decided to provide us with a choice and provide OneDrive as any other third-party app.

That move eased the troubleshooting substantially and made the system more customizable and user-friendly.

5. Use an alternative cloud service

If OneDrive is a resource-gulping app that triggers high CPU usage, consider switching to a more CPU-friendly solution that can perform the same tasks.

An alternative to OneDrive is the high-rated Sync.com, a cloud service that allows you to exploit up to 5GB of free storage space.

Seamlessly blending with all major operating systems, Sync allows you to sync, store, back up, and safely access and preview your files across all your devices.

Speaking about security, you will be pleased to know that your confidential data is protected through end-to-end encryption, as Sync has the utmost concern for your privacy.

With a generous storage capacity ranging from 2 to 4 TB, you may Sync data across all platforms and devices. You can save your personal data privately and securely with end-to-end encryption and real-time backup and sync.

There are also additional sharing and collaboration capabilities, file history and recovery features, and extensive controls for sharing, downloading, password security, and granular permissions.

Once you convince yourself of its excellent capacities, you can increase your storage quota by up to 4 TB according to the subscription plan of your preference.

Does OneDrive use a lot of CPU?

Ordinarily, OneDrive should not register a high CPU usage. Even syncing files, it uses a reasonable percent of your CPU.

However, if it encounters problems, this might change, and the app might consume your PC resources.

That should do it. You only need to follow the listed steps carefully, and things should be back to normal.

If OneDrive is constantly syncing on your PC, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

Don’t forget to share your questions or alternative solutions regarding the OneDrive CPU hogging in the comments below. We’ll be glad to hear from you.

How to Find the Steam Library Folder

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Steam is a popular game distribution and management platform. Now, if something goes wrong with a game or the app, you may need to access the Steam folder. However, it seems like users can’t sometimes find a certain Steam folder and it can be pretty annoying.

By default, Windows 10/11 installs all the apps in the Windows installation folder. So, if your Windows installation is in the C drive, the OS will install the apps in the same drive as well.

However, if you can’t find the Steam folder, there are several solutions you can try. In this article, we explore a few ways to help you find the Steam folder in Windows 10 and 11.

Where should my Steam folder be?

In case you don’t know where your Steam folders should be, well, to discover it, you’ll only have to right-click on the Steam desktop shortcut, then choose to Open file location.

The app should be located on the folder it opens (usually PC > (C:) > Program Files (x86)).

Keep in mind that this is more reliable than the library-based method because the library folder might be located somewhere other than steam’s folder.

Now, let’s see what you can do if you can’t find Steam folders.

What can I do if I can’t find my Steam folders?

1. Use the Steam client

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the app.
  2. In the main menu, select LIBRARY.
  3. Right-click on any of the installed games, then navigate to its Properties.
  4. In the Properties window, open the Local Files tab.
  5. Click the Browse Local Files button.
  6. File Explorer will open the selected game’s installation folder.
  7. In the File Explorer click the Up-arrow icon until you see the Steam folder.
Note icon NOTE
This method applies if you have a game installed in your Steam client. If you don’t, follow the steps described below instead.

2. Locate Steam folder from Settings

  1. In your Windows search bar, type Steam, then open the app.
  2. Make sure you are not in Family View.
  3. Now, from the top-left corner of the window, click on Steam.
  4. Navigate to Settings.
  5. From the Settings window, open the Downloads tab.
  6. Under Content Libraries, click the Steam Library Folders.
  7. Note down the path under Folders. It should look something like this: C:\Program Files(x86)\Steam
  8. Open File Explorer and navigate to the same to find your Steam folder.

Alternatively, you can also find the same by accessing the Steam Music tab. To do that, follow the steps below:

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the app.
  2. Look at the top-left corner of the window, and choose Steam.
  3. Now, got to Settings.
  4. From the left window pane, select the Music tab.
  5. The file path under Music Library that includes the Steam folder opens the same folder in File Explorer.

3. Install a game

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, and open the desktop client.
  2. From the main menu, go to Store.
  3. Select any game that is free to install.
  4. Click on Play Game.
  5. Under Choose location for install, note down the default installation path for Steam, then click on Next and proceed with the installation.
  6. Navigate to the same installation path using File Explorer to find the Steam folder.

If you are still looking for a way to find the Steam folder, try installing a game.

When installing a game on Steam, you can find where the Steam is located as the game will prompt you to select an installation path.

What other Steam folders related issues should I be aware of?

We can admit that not being able to find Steam folders can be a pretty annoying problem, but you should know that it is not the only folder-related error you can encounter while using this app.

Some users also reported that the library folder is not writable on Steam. In this case, keep in mind that this can occur after manually changing the library location for Steam games.

Fortunately, if you ever face this error, you can always check some useful solutions to easily get rid of it.

If you’re an online games fan, you probably know how important it is to be able to take a screenshot of certain actions while running Steam. That’s why we’ve created a guide that presents how to effortlessly use Steam Screenshot Manager.

Finding your Steam folder can be an annoying task if you have changed the default installation folder during installation. In this article, we have listed all the ways that you can find the Steam folder in the Windows operating system.

Lastly for seamless access to all Steam files, create a new Windows library, and add all the game folders to it.

For any additional questions regarding today’s subject, feel free to use the comment section below.

5 Best Terraria Seed Map Viewers to Find Hidden Secrets

Posted on by John Nedelcu

If you want to get a sneak peek at the maps in Terraria, you’re in the right place.

Whether you’re looking to uncover hidden treasures or prevent corruption from ruining your masterpiece, third-party Terraria map viewers can help you explore and even edit your world with ease.

Let’s check them out.

What are the best Terraria map viewers?

TEdit

terraria map viewer TEdit
  1. Download TEdit and unzip.
  2. Launch TEditXna.exe.
  3. Go to File > Open.
  4. Browse for your Terraria world.

TEedit is an extensive Terraria map viewer which allows you to view the entire world by removing the fog-of-war and seeing all the blocks and biomes at once. In addition, you can zoom in to specific areas and see traps, resources, chests, cloud islands, and Crimson / Corruption distribution.

Additionally, as the name implies, you can edit your world with TEdit and change specific properties, like which bosses you’ve defeated, the number of clouds, or the world type.

While TEdit is not known to cause issues, we still recommend you back-up your world before you make any modifications.

➡ Get TEdit

MoreTerra

terraria world viewer
  1. Download MoreTerra and unzip.
  2. Launch MoreTerra.exe.
  3. Browse for your world file.
  4. Select the output folder.
  5. Click on Draw World.

MoreTerra is a simple Terraria map viewer which will load the world file and output a picture with the fog-of-war removed and all points of interest marked on the map.

While the output picture is detailed, you cannot zoom in to see all the details from each biome. This tool is designed to give you an overview of the map and analyze the contents.

You can filter chests from the World Information tab and see their location and contents. Additionally, you can set custom markers for people, containers, or specific minerals. This will allow you to hunt down elusive materials needed for crafting.

➡ GetMoreTerra

Terrafirma

terraria viewer terrafirma
  1. Download Terrafirma and unzip.
  2. Launch terrafirma.exe.
  3. Go to File > Open World.

One of the simplest yet most effective Terraria map viewers using seed is Terrafirma. This tool allows you to load a specific world with only a few clicks and view it in its entirety. In addition, you can zoom in to see all the details of the world, including objects, traps, and resources.

Furthermore, you can filter items and highlight them on the map by pressing the shortcut key F2. From here, you can check chests, NPCs, or specific blocks.

➡ Get Terrafirma

TerraMap

terramap for windows terraria world viewer
  1. Download TerraMap and unzip.
  2. Launch TerraMap.exe.
  3. Go to File > Open World.
  4. Go to File > Open Player.
  5. Select either your player or All Spoilers.

TerraMap allows you to open your Terraria world in two modes: either with the fog-of-war and only seeing the progress you’ve made so far or by selecting All Spoilers, where you can see the entire world.

This Terraria map viewer allows you to browse the world parameters to see which bosses you’ve defeated and all other settings. You can select different entities to show on the map from the Highlight option, including chests, NPCs, minerals, and others.

Remember that selecting multiple items on a large map is computationally intensive, and your CPU must work hard to complete this task. An alternative would be to use the Terraria map viewer tmodloader.

➡ Get TerraMap

TerraMap Online

terraria online world viewer
  1. Go to TerraMap Online.
  2. Select Choose File on the top of the screen.
  3. Use the filters to highlight different items.

TerraMap online is a version of the Terraria world map viewer for PC. The advantage is that this is a cross-platform Terraia world viewer that retains its PC counterpart’ features.

You will need to navigate to the world file, which is located in C: > Users > [Your Username] > Documents > My Games > Terraria > Worlds.

Terraria is a game chunk-full of surprises, which allows players to explore vast worlds in search of hidden treasures. But even more than that, it is a means for players to express their creativity and, like Minecraft, create works of art with simple blocks.

➡ Get TerraMap Online

Is there an item in Terraria that reveals the whole map?

Yes! If you get the Ancient Master’s Map of the Lost King’s Great Ancestors, it will reveal the entire map, consisting of a 150 radius around the player in Multiplayer mode.

This Terraria seed viewer allows your gameplay to expand considerably.

This will allow you to quickly choose any other location on the map and even for finding treasures. You can learn more about how this item works and how you can get it.

How do I view the whole map in Terraria?

To view the entire map in Terraria, you will need to use the Full-Screen Mode for the map/ This will allow you to move the map without moving the character and also allow you to observe the entire map.

To activate this option, you must use the Toggle Map Style button and switch between portrait, overlay, hidden, and full screen. To close the full-screen map, simply press the M or inventory keys.

If you know of other Terraria world map viewers, let us know in the comments section below.

Unable to Open Connection to Com1: 13 Ways to Fix

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

If you’re getting a “Unable to open serial port” error message on Windows, we’re here to help. This usually happens when a program tries to access a serial (COM) port that isn’t available, is in use, or is misconfigured.

It’s a common issue for hardware that communicates through serial ports like Arduino boards, modems, and USB-to-serial adapters. The good news is that, even though it sounds technical, it’s actually easy to fix.

Follow the steps below to troubleshoot the error in just a few minutes.

How do I fix unable to open serial port?

Table of contents

1. Make sure that you have the necessary drivers

  1. Right-click the Start menu and select Device Manager.
    unable to open serial port
  2. Expand the Universal Serial Bus controller category.
  3. Right-click on your driver and choose Update driver.
  4. Lastly, click on Search automatically for drivers.

2. Verify that the port isn’t open/disconnect the cable

Sometimes the Unable to open serial port message can appear if the port is already open. To fix this problem, users are suggesting disconnecting the cable from the other device and trying to connect again.

try to disconnect the cable

This is a simple workaround, but several users reported it worked for them, so feel free to try it out.

3. Stop the Windows Fax and Scan service

  1. Press Windows Key + R keyboard shortcut to open the Run dialog.
  2. Enter services.msc and press Enter or click OK.
    services run window can't open serial port
  3. When the Services window opens, locate Windows Fax and Scan service and double-click it to open its properties (If this service isn’t available, try changing the settings of the Fax service).
  4. Set the Startup type to Manual and click the Stop button to stop the service. Now click Apply and OK to save changes.
    manual startup type serial port not working

4. Disable the serial port in Device Manager

  1. Press Windows Key + X and choose Device Manager from the list.
    serial port device manager
  2. When Device Manager opens, locate the serial port, right-click it, and choose Disable device from the menu.
  3. When the confirmation dialog appears, click Yes.
  4. Wait for a couple of moments, and then enable the serial port.

5. Try using a different cable

Sometimes, an unable to open serial port error can appear if your USB cable isn’t working. Be sure to check if your cable is connected correctly. In addition, check for any visible damage.

If your cable seems in order, try replacing it and check if the problem appears with a different cable.

6. Reinstall the serial port driver

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Locate your serial port, right-click it, and choose Uninstall device.
    uninstall device serial port can't open
  3. Now click Uninstall to confirm.
    confirm device uninstall serial port not working
  4. Once the device is uninstalled, restart your PC.

As we already mentioned, sometimes issues with your serial port can be caused by your drivers.

If you keep getting Unable to open serial port message, you might be able to fix the problem simply by reinstalling the serial port driver.

After your computer restarts, Windows should install the default driver, and the problem will be completely resolved.

7. Make sure that the system is up to date

  1. Open the Settings app and go to the Update & Security section.
  2. Now click the Check for updates button in the right pane.
    update windows open serial port
  3. If any updates are available, they will be downloaded automatically in the background and installed as soon as you restart your PC.

Sometimes, an unable to open serial port message can appear if your system isn’t out of date.

An outdated system can lead to various compatibility issues, and the best way to avoid these issues is to update your system.

This process is relatively straightforward in Windows 10, and for the most part, Windows installs the updates on its own. Once your system is updated, check if the problem is still there.

8. Change the COM Port Number

The COM1 port may conflict with another device.

  • Press Windows + X, select Device Manager.
  • Expand Ports (COM & LPT).
  • Right-click your device > Properties > Port Settings tab > click Advanced.
  • Change the COM Port Number to a different unused port (e.g., COM3 or COM4).
  • Click OK and restart the system.

9. Check for Conflicting Applications

Another application might be locking the COM1 port (e.g., hypervisors, serial tools, Arduino IDE, etc.).

  • Open Task Manager, look for background apps that may use serial ports.
  • Close any app you’re not using.
  • If unsure, boot into Safe Mode with Networking and try again.

10. Reset BIOS/UEFI Serial Port Settings

Some motherboards allow toggling or reassigning COM1 from BIOS.

  • Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI (Del, F2, or as per your device).
  • Look for Serial Port Configuration or Super IO Configuration.
  • Set the COM1 port to Enabled or Auto, and save changes.

11. Use Windows Troubleshooter

If the issue is with hardware or device detection, the built-in troubleshooter might help.

  • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  • Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions.

12. Use a USB-to-Serial Adapter

If the physical COM1 port is failing, consider bypassing it.

  • Purchase a USB-to-RS232 serial adapter.
  • Plug it in and install any required drivers.
  • Assign it a COM port number and test the connection.

13. Check for Security Software Interference

Firewall or endpoint protection tools might block serial communication.

  • Temporarily disable antivirus/firewall software and test the connection.
  • If it works, whitelist the serial port software or tool.

How to enable COM port in Windows 10?

  1. Click the Windows key, enter regedit and select the Registry Editor app.
  2. Navigate to the part below:
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USBSTOR
  3. On the right pane, double-click on Start.
    unable to open serial port
  4. Change the Value data to 4 and click OK.
    unable to open serial port

Getting the Unable to open serial port message can be frustrating, especially if you rely on COM ports for specific hardware. Fortunately, the steps above should help resolve the issue in most cases.

And if your COM port is missing entirely, you can manually add one via Device Manager to get things working again.

Remember that we have not made these solutions in any particular order, so you should try what seems most appropriate for your situation.

Let us know which one worked for you in the comments area below.

FAQ: COM1 and Serial Port Errors on Windows

1. What is a COM port?

A COM port (short for communication port) allows your computer to talk to external devices using serial communication. Even if you’re using a USB connection, many devices (like Arduino boards or serial adapters) still create a virtual COM port in Windows (e.g., COM3, COM4).

2. Why does it say COM1 when I’m not using it?

Many programs default to COM1, assuming it exists. On modern PCs, COM1 is often missing or already in use. If your device is connected to COM4 but your software tries to use COM1, it won’t work.
Fix: Check Device Manager for the correct COM port and set your program to use that instead.

3. How do I find which COM port my device uses?

Open Device Manager (right-click Start > Device Manager).
Expand Ports (COM & LPT).
Find your device in the list (e.g., “USB-SERIAL CH340 (COM3)”).
Use that COM number in your software settings.

4. What if a program doesn’t release the port?

If a program crashes or hangs, it may leave the COM port locked. This blocks other programs from using it.
Fixes:
Restart your PC to release the port.
Use Task Manager to close any stuck apps.
Use Process Explorer to check which process is holding the port.

5. How do I enable COM1?

If COM1 is disabled or missing:
In Device Manager:
Go to Device Manager, expand Ports, right-click COM1 (if shown), and select Enable.
In BIOS/UEFI:
Enter BIOS at startup (often by pressing F2 or Del).
Look under Advanced or Peripherals for serial port settings.
Enable COM1, then save and exit.
Note: Some PCs don’t have a physical COM1 port anymore. Use a USB-to-Serial adapter if needed.

Run Time Error 1004: 3 Ways to Fix it

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Excel runtime error 1004 typically comes up when you are working with a corrupt document. You also get this error if you open a VBA Excel file when your Excel is having a conflict with other programs.

The Excel runtime error 1004 could show up due to a variety of other underlying issues. The most common error messages include the following:

  • VB: run-time error 1004: Application-defined or object-defined error
  • Excel VBA Runtime error 1004 Select method of Range class failed
  • runtime error 1004 method range of object _global failed visual basic
  • Excel macro Run-time error 1004
  • Runtime error 1004 method open of object workbooks failed
  • Run time error 1004: Method Ranger of Object Worksheet Failed
  • Save As VBA run time Error 1004: Application-defined or object-defined error

If you get any of these errors, then you can fix the error using the solutions here.

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What is Run Time error 1004 in Excel?

The runtime error is specific to apps that integrate Microsoft Visual Basic for Application (also known as VBA) script to run repetitive tasks.

All Microsoft Office applications use this Windows-specific programming, but the most prevalent issues arise in Excel, especially Excel 2007.

Many users report having issues when creating macros. A macro is a feature in Excel that records keystrokes and clicks in order to help you automate repetitive tasks.

Oftentimes, this task gets in conflict with the VBA which leads to the 1004 error. Another common cause is a corrupt Excel application or a corrupt XLS file.

Other possible causes that have been linked to this error include having a number of legend entries that exceed the space available, and a file conflict between Excel and other apps.

How do I fix runtime error 1004 in Excel?

The good news is that this error has been around for a while and there are several proven methods that will help you fix it.

1. Uninstall Microsoft Works to fix Runtime error 1004

  1. Press the CTRL + ALT + DEL combination and click on Task Manager.
  2. End all the programs that are currently open.
  3. Next, press the Windows key + R to open the Run utility.
  4. Here, enter appwiz.cpl and click the OK button.excel-runtime-error-1004-uninstall-microsoft-works
  5. From the list of programs installed on your computer, find Microsoft Works. Right-click on it and hit Uninstall.

2. Delete GWXL97.XLA to fix Run Time error 1004

  1. Start by opening File Explorer on your computer. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + E.
  2. Next, click on the address bar, type in the following path, and hit Enter: C:Users\user name\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Excel
    excel-runtime-error-1004-find-the-excel-folder
  3. Here, open the XLStart folder.
  4. Finally, find the GWXL97.XLA file and delete it.

    3. How to fix Runtime error 1004 by creating a new template

    A great and easy method to fix runtime error 1004 is to use a new Excel template.

    You need to transfer the template from the Excel file that had issues to the new one, and the runtime error will be gone.

    While we’re at it, you might want to learn more about the Excel application and its best uses.

    If so, take a closer look at our Excel page to get your hands on countless informative recommendations and error fixes.

  1. 1. Launch Microsoft Excel on your computer.

  2. 2. Next, create a new Microsoft Excel workbook by pressing the CTRL + N combination or selecting Blank workbook from the first screen.

    excel new workbook

  3. 3. After making the workbook delete all the sheets on the workbook except one.

  4. 4. Format the remaining sheet.

  5. 5. Then go to File > Save As.

  6. 6. Save the file with the Excel Template (.xltx or .xlt) file format.

  7. 7. When the document is saved successfully, you can insert the template with the help of this code:Add Type:=pathfilename

    • Replace filename with the actual name of the document.

Knowing that there are many causes of the runtime error 1004 in Excel, only one solution may work.

With the help of this guide, you can now fix the Microsoft Excel runtime error 1004 and recover your file data.

In case you need further assistance, we have a dedicated Hub for Troubleshooting Runtime Errors that is full of articles like the one below.

How to Force Detach your Surface Book

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Microsoft presented the Surface Book as the most powerful laptop, and the device is indeed powerful, but it’s more than just a regular laptop.

Namely, you can detach the screen from the keyboard, and use Surface Book as a fully legitimate tablet.

Since detaching a screen is a simple action, it should be performed without any issues, but this doesn’t appear to be the case.

A couple of users complained that they’re unable to detach Surface Book from the keyboard, as the detach button doesn’t react well.

When I first got my surface book I could detach it without any issues, however, I am no longer able to. Now when trying to detach it the detach button’s light blinks green but nothing happens.

When I hover over the software detach option it says Surface Detach: Detached and when looking at the battery status it says Battery 1 not available. Everything appears to indicate it does not think it is currently attached to the keyboard, when in fact it is.

Microsoft noticed this issue, but the company said that all necessary updates for Surface Book have already been released, so the issue must be of a technical nature.

But even if the company didn’t help, users managed to find the solution by themselves, so if you’re also facing the problem with detaching your Surface Book from the keyboard, check out the solutions below.

Surface Book is a great device, but several users reported that they are unable to detach the keyboard. Speaking of issues, these are some common problems with the keyboard that users reported:

  • Surface Book detach button red – This is a common problem with Surface Book and keyboard dock. If you encounter this problem, be sure to try some of our solutions.
  • Surface Book manual release – If you are having problems with your keyboard, you might be able to detach it manually. This is a risky procedure, so use it only as a last resort.
  • Surface Book please resolve before detaching – Sometimes you’ll get a message saying to resolve issues before detaching. This is most likely caused because an application is using the dedicated GPU. Simply close that application and you should be able to detach your keyboard.
  • Surface Book force detach – If you’re unable to detach the keyboard from Surface Book, you might be able to forcefully detach it. To do that, you just have to manually press the buttons inside of the Surface Book.
  • Surface Book Detach button doesn’t work – Many users reported that the Detach button doesn’t work. However, you should be able to fix that by using one of our solutions.
  • Detach Surface Book while off – If you want to detach your keyboard while the device is off, the only way to do that is to use the manual method. Keep in mind that this method can potentially damage your device, so use it as a last resort.

How can I fix Surface Book detaching from keyboard error?

1. Perform a two button reset

  1. Turn your Surface Book off.
  2. After your Surface turns off, press and hold the volume-up button and the power button at the same time for at least 15 seconds, then release both (The screen might flash the Surface logo, but don’t release the buttons for at least 15 seconds).
  3. After you release the buttons, wait for 10 seconds, and then press the power button again to turn on your device.

One user reported that the detaching issue was solved by performing a two-button shutdown, and since it’s the simplest solution we have in this article, we’re going to try it first.

Once you performed a two-button shutdown, try to detach your Surface Book from the keyboard, and it should work without any problems. In case you’re still unable to detach it, try some of the following solutions.

Your Surface Book is not turning back on? Check this guide to solve the problem quickly.

2. Enter BIOS

  1. Shutdown your Surface Book.
  2. Press the power button to turn it back on.
  3. Hold the volume up button until you enter the BIOS.
  4. Do not make any changes in the BIOS.
  5. Exit the BIOS, and you will be prompted that the changes will be saved.
  6. The computer will restart.

This solution was provided by the user who reported the issue on Microsoft Community forums at first place.

It does sound a little strange for us, and we didn’t test if it works, but he claims that it solved the problem for him, so if performing a two-button reset didn’t work, you can give his solution a try.

After doing this, as our friend from Community forums says, various permission errors will occur, but you should ignore them, and just restart your computer again.

After that, everything should get back to normal, and you should be able to detach your Surface Book from the keyboard without any problems.

If your Surface Book keyboard becomes unresponsive, you can fix it by following this handy guide.

3. Manually detach the keyboard

Before we start, we have to mention that this solution is potentially dangerous and by performing it, you might permanently damage your device.

We’re not responsible for any damage that can occur to your device as a result of this solution.

According to users, if you’re unable to detach Surface Book from keyboard, you might be able to do that manually. To do that, you just need a paperclip or any other long and thin object.

To do that, you just need to put your paperclip through the sixth ventilation hole and find the hidden button that holds the keyboard. If you can’t find the button, you might need a flashlight in order to find it.

Keep in mind that you need to do that for both sides in order to release the keyboard. It’s also worth mentioning that keyboard could also snap back to its original location and become locked again, so you need to be careful.

As we already mentioned, using this solution you can cause physical damage to your device, so use it only if other solutions don’t work.

Another great thing about this solution is that you can use it even if your device is turned off, so you can detach the keyboard even if your battery is empty.

Many users reported that this solution worked for them, but if you want to try it, be extra cautious in order to avoid causing damage to your PC.

4. Make sure that your applications are using integrated graphics processor

According to users, sometimes you’re unable to detach Surface Book from keyboard because your applications are still using dedicated graphics processor.

To fix the issue, you need to open Nvidia Control Panel and set all your applications to prioritize integrated graphics.

After making this change, your applications won’t use dedicated graphics and you should be able to detach your keyboard without any problems.

Keep in mind that there’s a downside to this solution, and you might experience lower performance after setting all your applications to use integrated graphics.

If you’re using demanding applications, such as video games, for example, you can set them to use a dedicated graphics processor in order to achieve better performance.

After doing that, you should be able to detach your keyboard without any issues.

Nvidia Control Panel won’t open on your Surface Book? Don’t worry, we’ve got the right solution for you.

5. End the application that is using your dedicated graphics

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Now locate the application that is using your GPU, right click it and choose End task from the menu.
    Surface Book detach button red

If you’re unable to detach Surface Book from keyboard, it’s rather likely that a certain application is still using your dedicated graphics processor.

In our previous solution we showed you how to make all applications use a dedicated processor, however, if you don’t want to do that, you can always manually end the application that is using your GPU.

To do that, you need to use Task Manager. To end an application, just follow the steps above.

After ending the application, you should be able to detach the keyboard without any problems.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a permanent solution, so you’ll have to manually end the applications that are using your GPU whenever you want to detach your keyboard.

Can’t open Task Manager? Take a look at this step-by-step guide and fix the issue in no time.

Windows won’t end a task in Task Manager? Count on us to solve the problem.

6. Charge your Surface Book

According to Microsoft, you might be unable to detach Surface Book from keyboard simply because your battery isn’t charged.

In order to detach the keyboard, your device must be charged more than 10 percent. After charging your device, you should be able to detach the keyboard without any problems.

7. Wait for 10 seconds before pressing the detach key

If you can’t detach your keyboard, you might want to wait for a couple of moments and then try again. According to users, simply press Detach key for a one second and try to detach the keyboard.

If that doesn’t work, you might have to wait for 10 seconds or more and try again.

That’s about it, once again these are not official solutions, as we picked them up from users of Microsoft Community.

So, if you’re also experiencing the similar problem, we can’t guarantee that they’ll work for you, but you can give it a try.

If you have any other questions or suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to check them out.

Fix: CyberGhost not Working / Could not Download Needed Files

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

CyberGhost is a popular VPN client, but some users reported that CyberGhost is not working on their PC.

This can be a problem and leave your online privacy unprotected from third parties and your ISP. However, there’s a way to deal with this problem.

Using a VPN is important, and speaking of VPNs, many users reported that CyberGhost is not working on their PC. As for VPN issues, here are common CyberGhost problems that users encountered:

  • CyberGhost not connecting Windows 10, opening, starting up – These are some common problems that can occur with CyberGhost. If you encounter this issue, be sure that your antivirus or firewall aren’t blocking CyberGhost.
  • CyberGhost 6 has stopped working – This problem can occur if your installation is corrupted. To fix the problem, reinstall CyberGhost and check if that helps.
  • It is currently not possible to connect to the CyberGhost VPN network – If you’re unable to connect to the VPN network, it’s possible that your firewall is causing the issue. To fix that, be sure that the required ports are open.
  • CyberGhost service not reachable – This issue can appear on any version of Windows, and if you encounter it, be sure to try some of our solutions.

Why is CyberGhost blocking Internet connection?

It’s not uncommon to lose Internet connection after connecting to VPN, and this usually occurs due to your settings.

This also affects wireless networks, and many reported that Wi-Fi disconnects when using a VPN. It’s possible that the server can’t be reached, thus causing the problems with your network.

Another cause for this problem can be your network hardware, and it’s not uncommon for VPN to be blocked by router or any other network device.

How do I fix Cyberghost not working?

  1. Update your network drivers
  2. Switch to Google’s DNS
  3. Use the Command Prompt
  4. Reinstall Cyberghost
  5. Make sure that your network connection is working
  6. Check your system time
  7. Check your antivirus
  8. Make sure that the required ports are open
  9. Install the latest updates
  10. Run CyberGhost as an administrator or in Compatibility

1. Update your network driver

Updating your network driver has never been easier. All you need to do is download a capable third-party app that will automatically update your drivers.

You won’t need to manually search for the latest versions anymore. The program automatically scans your computer’s drivers and updates them for you. The days of installing wrong driver versions are gone.

2. Switch to Google’s DNS

  1. Click the network icon on your Taskbar and select your network from the menu.
    network icon cyberghost not working
  2. In the right pane, click the Change adapter options.
    cyberghost doesn't work adapter options
    • You should now see the list of available network connections.
  3. Right-click your network connection and select Properties from the menu.
    ipv4 properties cyberghost not working
  4. Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) on the list and click the Properties button.
    cyberghost not working connection properties
  5. A new window will appear. Select Use the following DNS server addresses option. Now enter 8.8.8.8 as the Preferred and 8.8.4.4 as the Alternate DNS server. Lastly, click the OK button to save changes.
    DNS change cyberghost not starting

Using a VPN is important if you want to protect your privacy online, but some users reported that they get the Cyberghost could not download needed files error on their computers.

This can be a problem, but you might be able to fix this issue simply by switching to Google’s DNS.

After doing that you’ll switch to Google’s DNS and the problem should be resolved. Many users reported that this method worked for them, so feel free to try it out.

3. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Press Windows Key + X.
  2. Now choose Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.
  3. In Command Prompt, type the following commands:
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /renew
    • netsh winsock reset
    • netsh int ip reset
    • ipconfig /flushdns
    • ipconfig registerdns
    • netsh int tcp set heuristics disabled
    • netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled
    • netsh int tcp set global rss=enabled
    • netsh int tcp show global

According to users, sometimes CyberGhost is not working due to problems with your network connection. This is a relatively common problem, and in order to fix it, you need to run several commands in the Command Prompt.

After running these commands, check if the problem with CyberGhost is still there.

4. Reinstall CyberGhost

If CyberGhost is not working, the problem might be the installation itself. Sometimes the installation can get corrupted, and in order to fix the problem, you need to reinstall CyberGhost.

This is quite simple to do, but the best way to do it is to use uninstaller software.

In case you don’t know, uninstaller software is a special application that will remove all files and registry entries related to the selected application.

As a result, you’ll remove all potential leftover files and prevent them from causing issues in the future. If you’re looking for good uninstaller software, we suggest you try the app uninstaller shown below.

The uninstaller will also remove all leftover files thus performing a deep uninstall. Once you remove CyberGhost with uninstaller software, download and install the latest version and check if it is solved.

5. Make sure that your network connection is working

If CyberGhost VPN isn’t working on your PC, perhaps the problem is related to your network connection. To fix the problem, be sure to check if other applications, such as your browser, for example, are working properly.

If the network connection works, then this is not the starting point of the problem, and you should proceed to the next solution below.

6. Check the system time

  1. Right-click the clock icon in the bottom-right corner.
  2. Choose Adjust date/time from the menu.
    adjust date/time cyberghost doesn't work
  3. A new window should now appear. Locate Set time automatically option and turn it off.
  4. After a couple of moments, turn this feature back on again.
    set time automatically cyberghost not working

Sometimes your system time can cause problems with Cyberghost, especially if your clock isn’t correct. To fix this problem, be sure to check your clock.

After doing that, the date and time should be readjusted automatically. If you want to change date and time manually, click the Change button and adjust it.

After your date and time are correct, check if the problem is still there.

7. Check your antivirus

According to users, sometimes your antivirus can cause this problem to appear. If CyberGhost is not working on your PC, try adding CyberGhost to the list of exceptions in your antivirus.

If that doesn’t help, try disabling certain features or disable your antivirus altogether. In the worst-case scenario, you might have to uninstall your antivirus.

Several users reported issues with Malwarebytes and CyberGhost, so if you’re using Malwarebytes, be sure to uninstall it and check if that solves the problem.

Bear in mind that other antivirus tools can cause this problem, so you might have to remove them as well.

If removing your antivirus solves the problem, we suggest that you switch to a different antivirus solution.

There are several Windows 10 compatible antiviruses that won’t interfere with you VPN.

Many of the good security software on the market offer free trial versions, so if you are not sure which one to get, you can try out a few before you make a decision.

Key features to look for are frequent updates, a large threat database, multi-layered protection, a strong firewall, and a solid privacy policy.

8. Make sure that the required ports are open

In order to use CyberGhost on your PC, you need to ensure that certain ports are open. To do this, be sure to check your firewall settings and enable the following ports:

  • 443
  • 8078
  • 8080
  • 9081
  • 9082

Note: In addition to the firewall on your PC, perhaps you should check your router’s configuration page and make sure that the aforementioned posts are open there as well.

9. Install the latest updates

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. When the Settings app opens, navigate to the Update & Security section.
    check for updates cyberghost not working
  3. Now click Check for updates button in the right pane.

If you keep having issues with CyberGhost, perhaps the problem is caused by system glitches. Problems on your operating system can occur and interfere with various applications.

However, you should be able to fix most of these system glitches simply by updating your system. Windows 10 already installs the missing updates automatically, but you can always check for updates manually.

If any updates are available, they will be downloaded automatically and installed as soon as you restart your PC. Once the latest updates are installed, check If the problem is still there.

10. Run CyberGhost as an administrator or in Compatibility mode

  1. Right-click the CyberGhost shortcut.
  2. From the context menu choose Run as administrator.

If CyberGhost is not working on your PC, the issue might be the lack of administrative privileges. To fix this issue, users are suggesting running CyberGhost as an administrator.

If this works, CyberGhost should now start without any problems. Bear in mind that you need to repeat this step every time you want to start CyberGhost.

However, you can automate this process and set CyberGhost to always start with administrative privileges.

To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click the CyberGhost shortcut and choose Properties from the menu.
  2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab and check Run this program as an administrator option.
  3. Now click Apply and OK to save changes.
    run as administrator cyberghost not working

After doing that, this shortcut will always start CyberGhost with administrative privileges, so you won’t have to do that manually.

If administrative privileges didn’t fix your problem, perhaps you can try running the application in Compatibility mode. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click CyberGhost shortcut and choose Properties from the menu.
  2. Head over to the Compatibility tab and check Run this program in compatibility mode for and select the desired version of Windows.
  3. Now click Apply and OK.
    compatibility mode cyberghost

After doing that, try to start the application and check if the problem is still there. Bear in mind that you might have to experiment with different Compatibility modes until you manage to find the one that works for you.

11. Try using a different VPN service

If you’re having issues with CyberGhost, you might want to consider using an alternative such as PIA. The software is open-source, so everybody can inspect it and verify its security.

There’s no logging, so your browsing history and online activity is completely unavailable to third-parties. Lastly, the service has servers all around the world, thus providing you with fast, reliable and secure connection at all times.

PIA

With its open-source code and no log policy, PIA is one of the best VPNs for all types of users.
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CyberGhost is a great VPN software, but if CyberGhost isn’t working on your PC, feel free to try some of our solutions and check if that solves your problem.

Posted in VPN

Galaxy Buds Won’t Connect to PC: 6 Ways to Recognize Them

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

You probably can’t connect Galaxy Buds to your PC. But here are the essential details.

Windows 10 offers you a variety of useful features, including using Samsung Galaxy Buds, which are ideal for a wireless experience. They are supposed to connect to Bluetooth mode automatically.

However, some users reported that they sometimes couldn’t connect Galaxy Buds to a PC. Here are some possible causes and remedies for this error.

Why won’t my Samsung Buds connect to my computer?

While connection should be seamless, we have realized that a few common factors inhibit this process. From what we gathered from users, the top elements include the following:

  • Bluetooth settings – This is one of the biggest issues. If your Bluetooth is not enabled, you will not be able to connect. You may also need a Bluetooth adaptor if the built-in Bluetooth is faulty.
  • Your device is hidden – There are chances you have not allowed the Buds to be discoverable. And this will hinder any connection efforts.
  • Glitches on your Computer – There may be tiny issues that you would need the computer to troubleshoot before you can complete the connection automatically.

Here are some tested solutions, no matter what the trigger is. Note that these fixes will work if you can’t pair Galaxy Buds to a PC or laptop and would also work for Pro versions.

What to do if I can’t connect Galaxy Buds to my PC?

1. Enable Bluetooth

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, then select Devices.
  2. On the left side, select Bluetooth & other devices.
  3. Check if the toggle button is blue on the activated mode.

Since your Windows 10 PC supports Bluetooth, you’ll need to turn it on. Then, apply the above procedure to achieve your goal quickly.

2. Make your Galaxy Buds discoverable

  1. Place your earbuds in the charging case and close the lid.
  2. Wait 5-6 seconds and open the case.
  3. Galaxy Buds should automatically enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
Note icon NOTE
If your device is already paired with another one, insert your Galaxy Buds into your ears and hold both touchpads for a few seconds until they enter pairing mode.

3. Discover your Galaxy Buds on the PC

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, then select Devices.
  2. On the left side, select Bluetooth & other devices.
  3. Click on the + button next to Add Bluetooth or other device.
  4. Select Bluetooth.
  5. Turn on your Galaxy Buds.
  6. The PC should now discover your device automatically.

4. Use the Hardware and Device Troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, and click on the Update & Security section.
  2. On the left side, select Troubleshoot, then go to Additional troubleshooters.
  3. Click on the Bluetooth section under Find and fix other problems.
  4. Select Run the troubleshooter.

5. Update Windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, and click on the Update & Security section.
  2. On the left side, select Windows Update. Then click on Check on updates button.

6. Reinstall the Bluetooth driver

  1. Unpair your Galaxy Buds.
  2. Press Windows + X keys and select Device Manager.
  3. Expand the Bluetooth section, right-click on your Bluetooth device that appeared below, and select Uninstall device.
    can't connect galaxy buds to pc
  4. In the opened window, click on the Uninstall button and wait until it is completed.
  5. Repeat these steps to uninstall all Bluetooth devices, including Galaxy Buds.
  6. Reboot your computer.

This was our list of best solutions when you couldn’t connect Galaxy Buds to your PC. We hope you found this article to be essential support for your issue.

When none of these lead to a result, you should consider pairing your buds on another computer to ensure the connectivity works.

Also, if you encounter any troubles regarding audio devices on your PC, you can always check a complete fix guide when you can’t find Bluetooth headphones on Windows 10.

If you have any suggestions for the presented issue, please don’t hesitate to comment in the section below.

PC Xbox Game Pass: Availability extends to 40 new countries

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

In the wake of Microsoft’s ambitious project to acquire Activision Blizzard, the Redmond tech giant may also have one step ahead of its competitors as it announced the expansion of Xbox’s PC Game Pass to over 40 new countries worldwide.

The expansion means that starting February 28, potential markets in these regions can sign up for Xbox Insider Program to benefit from access to hundreds of triple-A PC games on Windows, even those that are exclusive on Xbox, and play them through Xbox Game Cloud service. From the Insider Hub app, you can unlock a preview version of this service before its general availability.

In the coming months, PC Game Pass will launch in these countries for all players to experience. This means that Game Pass community members from 86 countries around the world can play hundreds of games together with their friends and family. We look forward to welcoming more players from around the world to the Game Pass community.

It also means that at least 86 countries will now have access to Microsoft’s largest gaming database. The latest expansion happened in March 2022 in several Southeast Asian countries including Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.

What are the available countries on PC Game Pass?

Here’s the list of where Microsoft expanded its PC Game Pass service:

  • Albania   
  • Algeria 
  • Bahrain 
  • Bolivia 
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina  
  • Bulgaria   
  • Costa Rica  
  • Croatia   
  • Cyprus  
  • Ecuador 
  • Egypt   
  • El Salvador  
  • Estonia   
  • Georgia  
  • Guatemala 
  • Honduras  
  • Iceland   
  • Kuwait 
  • Latvia   
  • Libya 
  • Liechtenstein  
  • Lithuania   
  • Luxembourg   
  • Malta  
  • Moldova   
  • Montenegro   
  • Morocco 
  • Nicaragua 
  • North Macedonia 
  • Oman 
  • Panama 
  • Paraguay 
  • Peru 
  • Qatar 
  • Romania   
  • Serbia   
  • Slovenia   
  • Tunisia 
  • Ukraine   

Previously, the tech giant also rolled out two important 10-year expansive deals with Nintendo and Nvidia.

Those deals will allow Xbox titles, including Activision’s most-wanted Call of Duty, to be played on the console and the GeForce NOW cloud gaming service. In the long run, Microsoft hopes to strengthen its position to acquire the Santa Monica game publishing company.

What are your thoughts about this expansion? Let us know in the comments!

OneDrive Error Code 0x8004de40: 6 Quick Solutions

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

While trying to sign in to your OneDrive desktop client, you may encounter the OneDrive error code 0x8004de40. The full error message reads: There was a problem connecting to OneDrive and offers a try again option.

This can be a real concern for many users because it affects the normal use of the OneDrive service.

So, in this guide, we look at some tried and tested solutions and common triggers of this error.

Why am I getting OneDrive error code 0x8004de40?

If you get the OneDrive error code 0x8004de40, it could be caused by any one of the following:

  • Incorrect Internet configuration – This is the primary cause of the error for most users. You probably are on a weak internet connection and can not correctly access the cloud.
  • Corrupted OneDrive installation – If the installation is corrupted, there are a few bugs that it will cause. The error code 0x8004de40 could be one of them.
  • Third-party antivirus software – There may be conflicts in software that trigger this issue. This is often a secondary antivirus software installed on the PC for many users.
  • Outdated software – You should be mindful that working on Microsoft services that have not been updated will trigger errors. It would be best if you were up to date on all your software to avoid this.

With these causes in mind, let us explore some solutions that other users have found effective.

How do I fix the OneDrive error code 0x8004de40?

1. Change the Internet Properties

  1. Press the Windows Key + R keyboard shortcut to open Run.
  2. Type inetcpl.cpl and click OK to open the Internet Properties window.
  3. On the Internet Properties window, open the Advanced tab, and under Settings, scroll down, find the following options, and check their boxes: Use TLS 1.0, Use TLS 1.1, Use TLS 1.2.
  4. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

TLS 1.0 and above is a security protocol that helps establish encryption channels over the computer network. Your OneDrive client may not function properly when these protocols are disabled.

2. Configure the Internet proxy settings

  1. Press the Windows Key + R keyboard shortcut to open Run.
  2. Type inetcpl.cpl and click OK to open the Internet Properties window.
  3. Open the Connections tab on the Internet Properties window and click on LAN Settings.
  4. Under LAN Settings, uncheck the Use a proxy server for your LAN option and tick the Automatically detect settings option.
    OneDrive error code 0x8004de40
  5. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

Proxy servers allow you to bypass certain restrictions your ISP apply, while some organizations use them to establish a secure connection to their network.

However, sometimes incorrect proxy settings can create issues with the OneDrive account, resulting in a connection error.

Are you unable to connect to a proxy server in Windows 10? Feel free to make all proxy server issues a thing of the past immediately.

3. Reset the OneDrive client

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, then click on Apps.
    OneDrive error code 0x8004de40
  2. Select Apps and Features and click on OneDrive.
  3. Click on Advanced Options, and in the OneDrive advanced options window, scroll down and click on Terminate.
  4. Scroll down again, click on Reset, then click on Reset to confirm the action.
  5. Close the Windows Settings window and relaunch OneDrive and check for any improvements.

An alternative way to reset OneDrive: 

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open Run, type the following command in the Run box, and click OK:
    %localappdata%MicrosoftOneDriveonedrive.exe
  2. Wait for the command to execute and relaunch the OneDrive desktop client.
  3. Check if you can establish a connection now.

Resetting the OneDrive client can help resolve issues due to bad cache and configuration. Also, for those wondering how do I fix a corrupted OneDrive, this should do the trick.

4. Whitelist OneDrive in Firewall

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type firewall.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.firewall.cpl
  2. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.allow an app
  3. Click Change settings.change settings
  4. Now, click on Allow another app.allow another app
  5. Click Browse.browse
  6. Navigate the following path, while replacing Username with the account name on the PC:C:\Users\Username\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
  7. Select OneDrive, and click OK.onedrive
  8. Click on Add.add
  9. Make sure both the Private and Public checkboxes are ticked for OneDrive, and click OK to save the changes.whitelist

Whitelisting Microsoft OneDrive in the firewall for both Private and Public networks should fix the OneDrive error code 0x8004de40 in Windows 11.

5. Reset Winsock properties

  1. Type command in the search box, right-click the Command Prompt option, and select Run as Administrator.
    OneDrive error code 0x8004de40
  2. In the Command Prompt, type the following command and hit Enter:
    Netsh winsock reset catalog 
  3. Once the command is successfully executed, close the command prompt and restart your PC.

If you’re having trouble accessing Command Prompt as an admin, rest assured that our simple tips will help you in no time.

Winsock reset usually helps with resolving network problems on your Windows PC. Running the above-given command should help you resolve OneDrive network-related issues. Also, it would work if you are getting OneDrive error code 0x8004de40 in Windows 7.

6. Delete Registry keys

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to the path below:
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Cryptography\Configuration\SSL\00010002\Functions
  3. Delete the functions key if it exists.

Even after following all the steps in this article, the OneDrive error code 0x8004de40  persists; launch the Microsoft Store, and check if an update is available for the OneDrive client.

Also, download and install any pending Windows updates by going to Start > Settings > Update and Security > Windows Updates.

Even more, check out this guide dedicated to OneDrive errors during Windows 10 shutdown. This issue can cause stress, so don’t hesitate to solve it for good.

Leave any other questions or suggestions in the comments section below, and we’ll check them out.