10 Best Mouse Settings for Improved Gaming on Windows 11

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

There has been a lot of talk about Microsoft’s operating system, Windows 11, and gaming ever since the OS wasn’t even released.

Windows 11 has been constantly improved since it came out, and we can now call it a much more stable and reliable experience, even if we are talking about gaming.

Even Mac users can install Windows 11 on their devices and play a game of their choice after the Windows 11 gaming improvements coming with Parallels Desktop 18.

Also, if you are interested in playing Android Games on Windows 11, we can show you everything you need to know about it.

Whether you spent a bag on gaming peripherals for your PC, such as mechanical keyboards or sensitive gaming mice, tweaking the device’s settings can improve your overall experience.

And, since we’re talking about gaming, you will surely be interested in a good gaming browser, so check out the best choices.

Do Windows mouse settings affect games?

We’re going to say that yes, they do. Sensitivity or other mouse settings can thoughtfully contribute to your overall gaming experience.

Mouse acceleration, for example, was implemented to help people feel more in control over their cursor; however, it can seriously throw you off while gaming.

For FPS players, experts recommend playing these games using a sensitivity between 400 and 800 DPI.

Yes, optimizing your mouse for gaming can significantly enhance the experience, so keep that in mind next time you want to tweak your game.

Of course, if you purchased a professional gaming mouse, you can personalize it directly from the product interface.

Where are the mouse settings in Windows 11?

If you want to access your mouse’s Windows 11 system settings, all you have to do is press Win + I, select the Bluetooth & devices tab, and then select Mouse.

Also, under this section, you will find the Additional or Advanced Mouse Settings for Windows 11.

What are the best mouse settings for gaming?

1. Personalised DPI settings

If you are into gaming or spend time around gamers, one of the first things you observe is that everyone plays with different DPI settings,

Depending on how sensitive you want your mouse to be, adjusting the DPI setting to a value you are comfortable with is essential.

If you have a gaming mouse, you can change the DPI settings from the extra button on it.

How do I change mouse DPI in Settings on Windows 11?

  1. Press Win + I to access Settings.
  2. Select the Bluetooth & devices tab, then click on Mouse.mouse settings
  3. Adjust Mouse pointer speed to your preference.mouse pointer speed

2. Disable mouse acceleration

  1. Press Win + I to access Settings.
  2. Select the Bluetooth & devices tab, then click on Mouse.mouse settings
  3. Select Advanced mouse settings.advanced mouse settings
  4. Select the Pointer Options tab and disable the Enhance pointer precision option. Also, for maximum accuracy, it’s recommended that you set the Windows 11 mouse sensitivity at 6/11.pointer precision

3. Always keep drivers up to date

  1. Search for Device Manager and open the app.device manager
  2. Expand Mice and other pointing devices.mouse driver
  3. Right-click on the mouse you are using and select Update driver.

This can also be done directly from the gaming mouse’s dedicated software, so we are showing you an alternative.

Outdated drivers are the most common reason for slow performance regarding your PC. Updating drivers by yourself can be difficult. Therefore, an automatic driver monitoring tool is a great option.

4. Boost your Polling Rate

Many gamers know that the Polling Rate is the speed at which your mouse communicates input to your gaming PC.

To help you understand, remember that the base polling rate with USB is usually 125Hz or once every 8 milliseconds.

That being said, most gaming mice typically include a 1000Hz polling rate, once per millisecond or 1000 times per second.

If you want to change the Polling Rate, you can do so directly from the mouse’s buttons, using keyboard shortcuts, or through the mouse’s dedicated software.

5. Disable Angle Snapping

Again, a fact not known by many non-hardcore gamers is that Angle Snapping is a feature that helps your mouse cursor in a straight line.

As you can imagine, that is not necessarily a good thing when we’re talking about gaming, so it can inconvenience you.

This, just as adjusting the Polling Rate, can be done using your mouse’s dedicated software, so keep that in mind.

6. Enable Game Mode

  1. Search for Game Mode Settings and open the app.game mode settings
  2. Turn on Game mode.game mode

7. Use specialized mouse software

As we said above, if you are into gaming, you are better off spending money on a gaming mouse to optimize your experience completely.

And, to get the most out of a gaming mouse, you need to download and install the corresponding software.

This way, you will have access to all the different features that the mouse comes equipped with, and you can tweak a lot more performance and visual options.

For example, if you are using a Razer gaming mouse, you will need to download the Razer Synapse to unlock the mouse’s full potential.

8. Always play games in fullscreen mode

You might now know this, but even the unimportant things can improve mouse responsiveness.

That said, after entering your favorite game, make sure you visit the Visual/Graphics settings page and make some tweaks.

For the best performance, make sure that you avoid using Windowed, or Borderless Window mode while gaming.

9. Enable Auto-HDR

It goes without saying that the HDR display is better than SDR, which means that a smoother gaming experience must be complete from all sides.

Visual quality means your mouse will move smoothly, without lag or stuttering so that you can enjoy your adventure.

If you need any help turning on Auto HDR in Windows 11, we can help you with that as well, so just relax and focus on gaming.

10. Use Raw Input

You surely know that many games nowadays have the option to turn raw mouse input on or off if you look into the settings. menu.

Typically, mouse movements are much more accurate when using raw mouse input, especially in first-person shooters.

This actually varies from game to game, but in some games with raw mouse input of the mouse, aiming will be very inconsistent, especially with higher DPI settings.

counter-strike mouse settings

Furthermore, the raw setting takes mouse input directly from the mouse instead of from the operating system, which will change the input based on things like the cursor position on the desktop, which can limit the maximum turning speed and create inconsistent turning speed.

How do I make my mouse faster in Windows 11?

This can be done directly from the mouse’s dedicated software interface, where you can tweak a lot for your mouse.

Otherwise, like we’ve shown you above, press Win + I to bring up Settings, go to Bluetooth & devices, then click on the Mouse option and modify all you want.

Should I turn off mouse acceleration for gaming?

Yes, if you are really into gaming, we strongly recommend disabling this feature for an improved gaming experience.

This won’t make all the difference in the world, but there will be a huge difference in how you control your mouse while in-game.

How do I reduce the mouse polling rate in Windows 11?

You might look at this as farfetched, but that is how you do it. Unplug the mouse from your computer. Press the numerical buttons 4 + 5 on your keyboard, and plug in the mouse.

If your mouse is properly connected, the polling rate has switched to 125 Hz. Press the numerical button 4, and plug in the mouse if you want to switch the report rate to 500 Hz.

So, if you were wondering how do I make my mouse smoother in Windows 11, you now know what to do for the best results.

Leave a comment below if you found any useful tips in this article or maybe some advice for even better gaming optimization.

Error #268D3: What Is It and How to Remove the Popup

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

The Windows OS is no stranger to errors, be it the dreaded BSOD or issues arising from outdated drivers. But these can usually be fixed with a little effort. However, several users reported getting the 268D3 error popup on a browser.

The error message reads, Your computer has been blocked, and prompts you to call the provided number. For some users, an audio recording of the #268D3 is also played simultaneously. So is it a legit warning or another scam? Let’s find out.

What is error 268D3?

The good news is that error #268d3 is nothing but annoying adware. So your computer is not infected by any virus or spyware trying to steal the credentials, credit card details, or email account logins. In all likelihood, the data is safe.

In most cases, it’s adware or a similar program installed on the computer that’s triggering the popup. Yet, the mere occurrence of the 268D3 error is annoying and affects the browsing experience. So, let’s find out how you can remove it.

How can I fix the 268D3 error?

Before trying the solutions here, we recommend:

  • You should disconnect from the Internet, remove the Ethernet cable or turn off the router, and then restart the computer.

1. Terminate the browser

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, and locate the affected browser in the list of processes.
  2. Now, right-click on it, and select End task.end task to fix error 268d3

In some cases, the error 268D3 was a one-time thing and didn’t appear again after the browser was terminated. It points to a situation where it’s a website that triggers the popup and not the computer. So stop visiting that particular website from now on.

2. Run a malware scan

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Windows Security, and click on the relevant search result.windows security
  2. Now, click on Virus & threat protection.virus & threat protection
  3. Choose Scan options.scan options
  4. Select Full scan and then click on Scan now.full scan to fix error 268d3
  5. Wait for the scan to complete and check if any malware was found and removed from the PC.

Windows Security, the built-in antivirus, is more than capable of identifying and eliminating suspicious programs, malware, and viruses. So, you must first scan the whole system with it. If it’s unable to fix the 268D3 error, an effective third-party antivirus will do.

Use Eset HOME Security Essential

Eset HOME Security Essential is among the best security tools to help you with this job. It offers multi-layered protection, which means its scanner is able to detect all sorts of different threats, such as viruses, spyware, ransomware, script-based attacks, and more.

The software is lightweight and very easy to use. It should work with no interruptions on any device and provide real-time protection without causing any performance issues.

Eset HOME Security Essential provides specific tools to protect your online payments, and has a powerful network inspector that detects any suspicious activity at the level of your network.

Other worthwhile features of this security tool include advanced parental controls, a powerful firewall, webcam protection, anti-phishing technology, and a system registry scanner.

If you want to run a scan with Eset, you just have to open the main window of the software and click on the Computer Scan option in the sidebar. Then select Scan your computer and wait for the process to complete.

Let the antivirus remove or quarantine any threat it finds and then restart your PC and see if your error is removed.

We also have to mention that Eset offers a free online system scan. It is a one-time solution that can be of help if you want to quickly check your PC and remove the threats as soon as possible. It is also a good way to test out the antivirus.

ESET HOME Security Essential

Keep your devices protected with advanced multi-layered protection and industry-standard online security tools.
Free Trial Visit Website

3. Remove the app triggering the popup

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.appwiz.cpl
  2. Now, locate any suspicious apps or adware that were installed around the same time the popup first appeared, and click on Uninstall.uninstall to fix error 268d3
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

If the antivirus couldn’t locate the program triggering the 268D3 error, you can always manually remove it. And in most cases, identifying it won’t be a lengthy affair.

4. Reset the browser

4.1 Google Chrome

  1. Launch Chrome, paste the following path in the address bar, and then hit Enter:chrome://settings/reset
  2. Now, click on Restore settings to their original defaults.restore settings to their original defaults
  3. Finally, click on Reset settings in the confirmation prompt, and wait for the process to complete.reset settings to fix error 268d3

4.2 Microsoft Edge

  1. Open Edge, click on the ellipsis near the top right and then choose Settings from the flyout menu.settings
  2. Select Reset settings from the navigation pane, and click on Restore settings to their default values.restore settings to their default value to fix error 268d3
  3. Click on Reset to confirm.reset

4.3 Mozilla Firefox

  1. Launch Firefox, click on the hamburger icon, and choose Help.help
  2. Click on More troubleshooting information.more troubleshooting
  3. Click on Refresh Firefox.refresh firefox to fix error 268d3
  4. Again, click Refresh Firefox in the confirmation prompt that appears.confirm

4.4 Opera

  1. Launch Opera and press Alt + P to open Settings.
  2. Scroll to the bottom and click Advanced.advanced
  3. Again, scroll down to the bottom, and this time, click on Restore settings to their original defaults.restore settings to their original defaults to fix error 268d3
  4. Click on Reset in the confirmation prompt.reset

Once you have reset the browser, the error 268D3 should not appear again on the PC. Remember, in no case should you call on the listed number or provide any information to the scammers.

If you often run into such issues, we recommend you switch to a browser that offers a safe online experience.

Do tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below. Also, if you know of other solutions, drop them here to help fellow users.

Fix: Core Isolation Page Not Available on Windows 11

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Core isolation is an additional security feature in Windows 11 that adds an extra layer of protection. Although Windows Defender has its own set of features that make the OS secure, Core isolation offers more. However, you may find that the core isolation page is not available in Windows 11.

With core isolation enabled, if a malicious program tries to take over your system by exploiting a vulnerability in Windows, it won’t have access to other parts of the operating system, such as your files or network connections. Given its importance, let’s look at how to enable it.

Why is Core isolation page not available?

To use Core isolation, you need to upgrade your device to a newer version of Windows. You already know the stringent system requirements for Windows 11, so if your device doesn’t meet them, this feature will be unavailable.

Although you may be able to bypass some of the system requirements and install Windows 11 on unsupported devices, some of the consequences are missing out on critical features, such as the Core isolation page not being available.

Some of the must-have features include:

  • TPM – TPM stands for Trusted Platform Module. It’s a hardware chip that acts as a computer’s central security system and uses encryption to protect data stored on your hard drive and other devices connected to your computer. It also has its unique keys embedded in the hardware that allows you to access your PC without relying on passwords or other authentication methods.
  • UEFI – UEFI can be seen as a replacement for legacy BIOS functionality. It offers a more secure way to boot your Windows computer than booting in legacy mode. Legacy mode is the old style of BIOS.
  • Secure boot – Secure Boot is a security feature that helps prevent malicious software from modifying the boot process. The secure boot mechanism can be used to verify that an operating system is authentic, and it can refuse to load an operating system if it isn’t signed by a trusted certificate authority, such as Microsoft.
  • DEP – DEP is an important security feature in Windows. It helps protect your PC by preventing the execution of code that runs in the memory reserved for the kernel, the core of the operating system.

How do I enable Core isolation in Windows 11?

Before you enable Core isolation, ensure you do the following first:

1. Use Windows Security 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Windows Security in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Navigate to Device security on the left pane.going device security windows security
  3. Next, select Core isolation details on the right.going core isolation details windows security
  4. Go to Memory integrity and toggle it On.turning on memory integrity windows security

If you want to disable the feature, go through the same steps, but this time, toggle Off Memory integrity. In case memory integrity is greyed out, check out our article on how to fix it.

2. Use Windows Registry

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type regedit in the dialog box and hit Enter.
  3. Navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\DeviceGuard\Scenarios\HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity
  4. In case HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity is not available, right-click on Scenarios, select New Key, and rename it as HypervisorEnforcedCodeIntegrity.
  5. Also, proceed to do so on the right pane by right-clicking on a space and select New DWORD (32-bit) Value and name it as Enabled.
  6. Double-click on Enabled, and under Value data enter 1, then click OK to save changes.
  7. Restart your PC. To turn off Core isolation, simply change the Value data to 0 and save the changes. 

The registry is a vital part of Windows, and editing it can cause serious problems if you don’t know what you’re doing. If you make a mistake, you could end up with a corrupted registry and lose data. 

This is why it’s strongly recommended that you back up your computer before making any changes to the registry.

Should I turn on Core isolation in Windows 11?

Core isolation and Memory integrity protection are two security features that have been available on recent versions of Windows. 

While these features can provide added protection for your system, they are not enabled by default because enabling them may degrade system performance. In addition, there are some cases where the features do not work properly or cause problems.

Still, there are convincing reasons why you should enable Core isolation in Windows 11:

  • An extra layer of protection – Memory Integrity helps reduce the risk of a memory corruption attack. It ensures that all changes to memory are validated before they are committed.
  • Block unwanted connections between processes or applications – This prevents unwanted connections between processes or applications. In turn, it reduces the risk of data theft or corruption if one process becomes corrupted or damaged by a virus or malware infection.
  • Prevent malicious software from accessing/modifying protected files – Core isolation also isolates the app’s memory space so that it doesn’t share memory with other processes on your device. This helps prevent any malware from accessing sensitive data stored elsewhere.

Hopefully, your Core isolation page is now back up if it was unavailable. If your PC didn’t cut, we have an awesome recommendation for Windows 11 PCs that you should consider.

Also, check out some of the best Windows 11 security settings you need to enable on your PC to keep your system protected. For an additional layer of protection, we recommend installing third-party antivirus.

That’s all we had for this article, but keep us engaged by sharing any thoughts you may have in the comment section below.

Minecraft Install Error 0x80131509: 3 Simple Fixes

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Getting error 0x80131509 while installing Minecraft (JAVA edition) is more common than you think. As a result, a lot of users have complained about the issue. But don’t worry, we can fix this in no time.

In this guide, we will discuss all the fixes when Minecraft is not installed right after discussing the potential causes of the issue.

What causes Minecraft install error 0x80131509?

There are a handful of reasons why you got a Minecraft to install error, and we have mentioned some of the most popular ones: 

  • Windows Updates – The error message could appear if the Windows update is pending. Download and install Windows updates and try to install Minecraft again.
  • Slow internet connection – If you are facing internet issues or your internet is faulty, then it could cause the installation to fail, and the error code might appear.
  • No Xbox Account – If you don’t have an account on Xbox or have tried to use incorrect credentials for your Xbox account, it could trigger the issue.
  • Old Minecraft launcher – If you have an old launcher along with the new launcher for Minecraft, it could conflict, hence the problem.

What can I do to fix Minecraft install error 0x80131509?

Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, let us try these quick fixes to resolve the problem: 

  • Restart your computer
  • Make sure there is no pending Windows update.
  • Check if any of the Microsoft apps need updates.
  • Use the same account on Microsoft Store and Xbox app.

1. Uninstall Minecraft Launcher

  1. Press Windows + I to get Settings.
  2. Go to Apps from the left pane and click Installed Apps.Minecraft Launcher Uninstall
  3. Locate the Minecraft launcher, click on three dots, and click Uninstall.

2. Repair Game servicing app & Xbox app

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Locate and click on Apps from the left-side pane, and click Installed Apps.
  3. Locate the Xbox app, click on three dots, and click Advanced options.Xbox Repair
  4. On the next window, locate and click Repair.Xbox repair 2
  5. Follow the same steps for the game servicing app to repair it.

3. Uninstall & Reinstall Game services

  1. Press Windows + X and click Terminal (Admin) to open PowerShell.Powershell
  2. Now type the following command and press Enter to uninstall Game services: get-appxpackage Microsoft.GamingServices | remove-Appxpackage –allusers
  3. Restart your computer.
  4. Open the Xbox Game Pass app, which will prompt you to install the gaming services again. 
  5. Once done, try to rerun the Minecraft installer.

4. Run Minecraft in Compatibility Mode

  1. On Windows 11/10 computer, download the launcher compatible with Window7/8.
  2. Right-click on the launcher file and select Properties.MSI properies
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab, and put a checkmark beside Run this program in compatibility mode. Now. Set the compatibility to Windows 8. Click Apply and OK.Compatibility

5. Restore your OS using ISO 

Tip icon Tip
It is vital to back up personal files before starting the process.
  1. Go to Microsoft website for Windows 11.
  2. Under Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO), select Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO).Download Windows 11
  3. Select the product language and click Confirm.Windows 11 download 2
  4. Click Download and follow the on-screen prompts to complete.

What version of Java does Minecraft 1.19 use?

There are a few editions of Minecraft 1.19. While the earlier ones work fine with Java 17, the newer editions, i.e., Minecraft 1.19.2 and higher, require Java 19.

To get Java 19, head to the official website, download it, and run the setup to complete the installation process. For those having trouble, check our easy guide on installing Java in Windows.

So, these are methods you need to follow to fix Minecraft install error 0x80131509, along with all the other relevant information that might come in handy while troubleshooting.

Try them and let us know which worked for you in the comments below.

Posted in PC

Driver PNP Watchdog on Windows 11: How to Fix This Stop Code

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Have you just encountered the driver PNP watchdog in Windows 11? We like to explore this error in our guide, recommend valuable fixes, and explore possible triggers.

The Driver PNP Watchdog code does not occur frequently, but it puzzles users when it does. In addition, it may show up when performing a Windows update, so it is recommended that you always use a Windows Update troubleshooter.

A BSOD error prompts the computer to restart immediately, causing you to lose all unsaved information instantly. Therefore, don’t hesitate to learn about the best Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) repair software.

What does driver PNP watchdog mean?

The Driver PNP Watchdog error has its fair share of limitations, such as the inability to install the main upgrades. However, there are a couple of reasons why the error occurs; the main ones include the following:

  • Incorrectly configured or outdated drivers – When drivers are not correctly configured or are outdated, the PNP service may struggle to complete its tasks.
  • Corruption in system files -Corruption in system files such as the registry or other essential files can cause the PNP watchdog error.
  • Malware infections – Malware infections can alter system files and cause problems with the PNP service.
  • Hardware issues – Issues with the computer hardware, such as failing hard drives or memory, can also cause the PNP watchdog error.
  • Overloaded system – An overloaded system, such as when too many programs are running concurrently, can also cause the PNP watchdog error.
  • Overclocking – Overclocking, or running the processor at a higher speed than it was designed for, can cause problems with the PNP service and trigger the watchdog error.

To date, users are still experiencing the issue as the BSOD errors keep evolving from time to time (yes, the Driver PNP Watchdog error is present in Windows 10 as well).

Despite the challenges, you still need the knowledge to bypass the Driver PNP Watchdog error if you ever encounter it. To learn how to fix this problem, follow the steps below. 

How can I bypass Windows 11’s Driver PNP Watchdog error? 

1. Repair the PC Registry by running SFC

  1. Type cmd on your search bar, right-click the command prompt, and select Run as administrator.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter. This will prompt the System File Checker to scan all system files.
    sfc/scannow fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  3. Wait till the scanning process is over. At this juncture, restart your PC. All corrupt files are replaced.

If your Volume Copy Service is experiencing some issues, the Driver PNP Watchdog error may be the problem.

When your system files are corrupted, it leads to immense damage to your Windows registry and the occurrence of the Driver PNP Watchdog error.

2. Inspect the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS)

  1. Press the Win key + R key simultaneously, which will prompt the Run dialog box. Then, key in services.msc and press Enter.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  2. Locate the VSS in the list, then double-click on it to open its Properties window.
  3. Set the Startup type to Automatic and set Service status set to Running. Then click Apply and OK to save your changes.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  4. Now, restart your PC.

3. Adjust the system services

  1. Type cmd in your Search bar, right-click the Command Prompt, then Run as administrator. Click on Yes when the User Account Control window pops up.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  1. Type the following commands one after the other, and press Enter after each one:
    • net stop wuauserv
    • net stop cryptSvc
    • net stop bits
    • net stop appIDsvcfix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  1. Press Windows + E to open the File Explorer, then go to the path below and rename SoftwareDistribution to SoftwareDistribution.old.
    C:\Windows\System32fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  2. Also, navigate to the path below and rename catroot2 to catroot2.old.
    C:\Windows\System32\catroot2fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  3. Open the Command Prompt window once more, then type the following commands and press Enter after each one:
    • net start wuauserv
    • net start cryptSvc
    • net start bits
    • net start msiserver
    • net start appIDsvc
  1. Exit the Command Prompt.
  2. Press the Start menu, type windows, and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) to open it.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  1. Type the command below and hit Enter: 
    wuauclt.exe /updatenowfix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11

System services are in place to ensure that your system functions optimally. The Driver PNP Watchdog error occurs when any service is faulty.

You can now restart the system and check whether the Driver PNP Watchdog error has been solved. If the issue is still imminent, use the following method.

4. Uninstall apps with malware

  1. Press the Win.
  2. Locate the recently installed software, right-click on it, and hit Uninstall.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  3. Restart your system and check if the problem is still persistent.

The BSOD error may affect your device, especially if you have recently installed corrupted software. It is easy to tell, especially if the problem starts after installing the malicious software.

Your next step would be to apply the above procedure and use the best uninstaller software. Even if this is a Windows 10 guide, the software presented works without problems on Windows 11 too.

5. Restore your device to factory settings

Note icon NOTE
Another solution would be to restore your device to its factory settings. This will uninstall your services, apps, and drivers. It is worth noting that all the changes made to your system settings and preferences will be lost.
  1. Press the Win + I keyboard shortcut to open the Windows Settings window.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  2. Select the System option on the right pane, then select the Recovery option on the left.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  3. Select Reset PC under Reset this PC.
    fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  4. Select Keep my files or Remove everything. Take the latter as an example.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  5. Choose the option to reinstall Windows 11.reinstall
  6. Select Just remove my files or Remove files and clean the drive.
  7. Let your device complete the reset process.

6. Use the antivirus to run a full system scan on your PC

  1. Press the Win key + I key to open the Windows Settings window.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  2. Select Privacy & Security, then select the Windows Security option from the left side.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  3. When the window pops up, select Virus & threat protection.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  4. Select Scan options next to the Quick scan button.
  5. Look for Full scan, then select Scan now. Windows Defender will start to scan your PC and provide a detailed report.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11

One of the main reasons the Driver PNP Watchdog error occurs is because of viruses and malware. As a result, the critical files and data stored in your PC used to interact with the hardware device by the system are affected.

The findings from the full scan will help you identify the malware and viruses present. The antivirus program provides you with a guide on how to remove them.

After successfully removing the malware, check whether the Driver PNP Watchdog error is resolved and use one of the best antivirus solutions for Windows 11.

7. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

  1. Press the Win key + I key to open the Windows Settings window.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  2. Select System, then select the Troubleshoot option from the left side.fix pnp watchdog code error for Windows 11
  3. Click the Other troubleshooter option.
    driver pnp watchdog windows 11
  4. Locate the Windows Update in the list on the right and click the Run option.
    driver pnp watchdog windows 11

Whenever your Windows Update is faced with issues in performing a particular operation, the BSOD may appear. For example, you can run the Windows Updates troubleshooter to solve the Driver PNP Watchdog error.

Even if this guide is for Windows 10 users, it may also be applied to Windows 11 PCs. Finally, restart your computer and check if the problem has been corrected.

As indicated above, there are a couple of solutions that you could use to remedy the Driver PNP Watchdog error. Unfortunately, things are no different when it comes to PNP-detected fatal errors. Therefore, the answers from this Windows 10 guide are also recommended to Windows 11 users.

Microsoft has made several efforts toward the bug check value, but there are still some challenges. For example, the company plans to change the popular BSOD to Black in Windows 11.

This does not mean the causes of the error will modify, which means that the troubleshooting methods outlined above will remain for Windows 11.

If you have encountered the Driver PNP Watchdog error, which of the above methods worked for you? Let us know in the comments section below.

Windows 11 Network Sharing Not Working? How to Turn it On

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Network sharing allows users to transfer and receive files with other users on a local network. It’s great for offices or people with multiple devices at home. But many users, after upgrading to Windows 11, reported that network discovery is not working.

This could be due to several reasons, including issues with the installer version of the OS. Also, misconfigured settings, absence of critical services, or lack of permissions can lead to network sharing not working in Windows 11.

Many with Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices on the local network noticed that though the device running Windows 11 could access the Windows 10 PC, the reverse is not true. Here upgrading all devices to Windows 11 may work.

So, let’s now walk you through the most effective fixes.

Why is my Network discovery not working?

Network discovery is a Windows feature that allows your computer to see other devices and shared resources on your local network. If network discovery is not working, it could be due to several reasons, including:

  • Firewall Settings – Windows Firewall or third-party firewall software could block network discovery. 
  • Network Profile – Your network profile might be set to Public, which disables network discovery. 
  • File and Printer Sharing – Ensure that file and printer sharing is enabled on your computer. This is required for network discovery to work.
  • Network adapter drivers – Outdated or incorrect drivers for your network adapter can cause network discovery problems. 
  • Router Configuration – Your router may have settings that are blocking network discovery. 

How do I turn on network discovery on Windows 11?

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Select Network and Internet; pick your network from the list (you can share Ethernet or Wi-Fi networks) and enable it. Then click on it to open its settings panel.
    windows 11 network discovery not working
  3. Set the Network profile type to Private.
    windows 11 network discovery not working

As you can see, you can find information about each network profile directly in the settings app. Once you enable the Private profile, you can share files with other devices on that network.

How do I force network discovery?

Sometimes, changes to your system will not apply until you reboot your PC. That allows it to reconfigure and load the OS with the new setup.

So if you have not tried that already, we advise you to do it. Many users report being able to use Network Discovery without an issue after a simple restart.

Also, check all the suggestions in this guide to learn how to configure your file permissions, share settings correctly, and more. Even if Network Discovery is enabled, other settings may prevent it from working correctly.

How can I fix Network discovery if it’s not working on Windows 11?

1. Update Windows 11

  1. Press Windows + I to launch the Settings app, and select Windows Update from the tabs listed in the navigation pane on the left.
    Windows Update
  2. Click the Check for updates button on the right to scan for available newer versions.
    Check for updates to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  3. If any are listed after the scan, click on Download & install to get them.
    Download & install to fix windows 11 network sharing not working

Often, it might be an issue with the current version of Windows 11, leading to network sharing not working in Windows 11. If that’s the case, updating the OS should fix the error.

2. Run the critical services

  1. Press Windows + S to launch the Search menu, enter Services in the text field at the top, and click on the relevant search result that appears.
    Services to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  2. Locate the Function Discovery Provider Host service, right-click on it, and select Properties from the context menu.
    Function Discovery Provider Host
  3. Now, click on the Startup type dropdown menu, and select Automatic from the list of options.
    Automatic to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  4. Click on the Start button if the service is not running, and then click OK at the bottom to save the changes.
    Start
  5. Similarly, set the Function Discovery Resource Publication to Automatic and run the service.

Once done, check if the network sharing not working issue in Windows 11 is fixed.

3. Reconfigure sharing settings

  1. Press Windows + S to launch the Search menu, enter Control Panel in the text field, and click on the relevant search result that appears.
    Control panel
  2. Click on Network and Internet.
    Network and Internet to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  3. Next, click on Network and Sharing Center.
    Network and Sharing center
  4. Click on Change advanced sharing settings from the options listed on the left.
    Change advanced sharing settings to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  5. Now, click All Networks, and then select Turn off Public folder sharing (people logged on to this computer can still access these folders) under Public folder sharing.
    Turn off public sharing
  6. Now, scroll down and select Turn off password protected sharing under Password protected sharing, and then click on Save changes at the bottom.
    Turn off password protected sharing to fix windows 11 network sharing not working

Once done, restart the computer for the changes to effect, and verify if the network sharing starts working in Windows 11.

You can troubleshoot access issues by using the Network and Sharing Center not opening guide, which helps you resolve problems that prevent the panel from launching in Windows 11.

4. Provide the necessary permissions

  1. Press Windows + E to launch File Explorer, locate the folder you are having trouble sharing, right-click on it, and select Properties from the context menu.
    Properties to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  2. Navigate to the Sharing tab and click on the Share button.
    Share
  3. Click on the dropdown menu, select Everyone from the list of options, and then click on Share at the bottom.
    Everyone to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  4. Click Done on the next window.
  5. Now, click on the Advanced Sharing button in the Sharing tab.
    Advance sharing
  6. Tick the checkbox for Share this folder.
    Share this folder to fix windows 11 network sharing not working
  7. Click on the Permissions button.
    Permissions
  8. Make sure that the Everyone option is selected and the relevant permissions granted. Once done, click on OK at the bottom to save the changes.
    Everyone
  9. Save the changes on all the subsequent windows, and restart the computer for these to effect.

Once done, the network sharing not working issue in Windows 11 should be fixed, and you can start sharing files with other devices on the local network.

Also, find out what to do if you cannot access the shared folder in Windows 11 since many reported encountering this issue.

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

MSN > Windows Live Search > Live Search > Bing and now the new Bing – a short history of online search at Microsoft

Posted on by Kip Kniskern

Microsoft spent some time this week touting their latest attempt to gain relevance in online search with the introduction of “the new Bing.” For those of us who’ve been following Microsoft for some time, however, fanfare about improvements to search aren’t exactly new. Let’s take a look at Microsoft’s previous attempts to disrupt the search industry (read: Google):

Pre-history the early days of search

Search on the web really started back in the mid ’90s. Jerry Yang and David Filo’s “guide to the World Wide Web,” which became Yahoo! in 1994 started things off with a hierarchical web directory, a single portal to lots of links to interesting sites on the web. At about the same time, researchers at Digital Equipment Company created AltaVista, the first searchable full-text database on the web. It was later incorporated into Yahoo!, and then Digital was acquired by computer maker Compaq, who redesigned AltaVista as a web portal to compete with Yahoo.

Shortly after that, in 1998, and like Yahoo coming out of Stanford University, Larry Page and Sergey Brin introduced another funny sounding search portal, called Google. Google caught on quickly, to say the least.

MSN

Microsoft entered the search engine fray early on, too. MSN Search debuted in mid 1998, using search results from another search provider, Inktomi. A year after Yahoo introduced its own home built web crawler in 2004, Microsoft did the same in 2005, debuting its own web crawler, “the index of which was updated weekly and sometimes daily” (!!).

Windows Live Search

In late 2005, Microsoft introduced their suite of Windows Live services (and incidentally began my blogging career at LiveSide.net), and MSN Search became Windows Live Search in September of 2006, but Windows Live Search didn’t last as as long as Windows Live did.

Live Search

In March of 2007, search became too important to be constrained within the Windows Live branding, and became Live Search, as part of the Live Search and Ad Platform headed by one Satya Nadella. In late 2007, Microsoft held an event in its Mountain View California search headquarters it dubbed “Searchification,” an event not unlike Tuesday’s introduction of “the new Bing.” Reporters and analysts were invited to the private event as Microsoft unveiled what it casually dubbed “Live Search 2.0,” touting a “quantum leap” in search relevance. That leap still didn’t get Microsoft where it wanted to be in the search landscape (ie: it was still far behind Google), and next up was a rebrand.

Bing

After a short stint with the beta code name Kumo, Microsoft officially announced that the new name for online search for Microsoft was Bing, and officially unveiled the name in June 2009. They chose the name carefully:

Microsoft decided that the name was memorable, short, and easy to spell, and that it would function well as a URL around the world. The word would remind people of the sound made during “the moment of discovery and decision making”.

While much of Microsoft’s blogging efforts have been lost to time (and a reason why we keep LiveSide around), The Wayback Machine has a copy of Microsoft’s official announcement on the new name, penned by Yusuf Mehdi, who was onstage again this week with “the new Bing.”

In short, this isn’t the first time that Microsoft has somewhat breathlessly announced that they’re ready to compete with Google. We’re excited to get our hands on an AI infused Bing, but as history tells us, no matter what Microsoft has done before, it’s always been an afterthought in search. Will AI change all that? Let us know in the comments below.

Image: DALL-E 2 “a happy girl using search on a laptop outside”

Local Security Policy Missing in Windows 11: How to Add It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

The Local Security Policy console is related to the Group Policy Management console. It is useful for setting up security policies for individual computers or groups of computers on your network. You can use it to configure settings such as account policies, audit policies, and much more.

It is important to note that the Local Security Policy may be missing in some older Windows versions, particularly the Home editions. If this is the case, we show you different ways to add it to your Windows 11 in this article.

Does Windows 11 have security protection?

The Windows operating system has always been a target for hackers. Windows 11, however, has been designed to be more secure than ever before. The operating system offers several security features to prevent malware from spreading and protect users from attacks.

To start, Windows 11 has a built-in antivirus and antimalware software called Windows Defender. However, there are some other security features that you can use to help protect your PC.

For instance, Windows Hello is a facial recognition feature that lets you log in using just your face instead of typing in a password or PIN every time you want to use your computer. 

We also have an in-depth comparison of Windows Hello vs Windows Hello for Business, so be sure to check that out. This feature works with many devices, including PCs and laptops, tablets, smartphones, and desktops. 

Whereas these features may enhance your Windows security, you need to take additional steps to secure your system.

These include:

  • Use a good antivirus program – Although Windows Security offers great security, it is not as comprehensive as other antiviruses.
  • Install Windows updates as soon as they are available – Security updates are critical to the smooth running of your PC. 
  • Set up a firewall to block incoming traffic from unknown sources – Firewalls will help block any potential risks from a mile away.
  • Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks unless you really need to – Public Wi-Fi is a no-go zone for any internet user, as cyber attackers are always lurking.
  • Keep your software up-to-date at all times – Ensure that all your programs and drivers are up-to-date so that if an opportunity to explore vulnerabilities presented itself, you’ll be protected.

How do I add a Local Security Policy in Windows 11?

Before you attempt to add the Local Security Policy to your version of Windows, it is important to ensure that your version is supported. 

To do so:

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type Winver in the dialog box, then hit Enter. A prompt will appear with details about your OS.

Once you verify that your version of Windows can download the Local Security Policy console, proceed to the following steps to add it.

1. Use Task Manager 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Task Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
    task manager search
  2. Click File at the top left corner and select Run new task.
  3. Type secpol.msc in the dialog box and hit Enter.
  4. The Local Security Policy window will open.

2. Use File Explorer 

  1. Hit the Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Type secpol.msc on the address bar and hit Enter.
  3. The Local Security Policy window will open.

3. Use the Run command

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type secpol.msc in the dialog box and hit Enter.
  3. The Local Security Policy window will open.

4. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Open.
    cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type secpol.msc and hit Enter.
  3. The Local Security Policy window will open.

5. Use Powershell 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Powershell in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Type secpol.msc and hit Enter.

6. Create a shortcut

  1. Right-click on an empty space on your desktop and select New shortcut.
    New shortcut desktop
  2. Type secpol.msc in the dialog box, then hit Next.
  3. A new shortcut for Local Security Policy will be created on your desktop.

If you’re already familiar with creating shortcuts in Windows 11, creating a shortcut for the Local Security Policy should be easy. Shortcuts are very useful for making your life easier and more efficient. 

Creating a shortcut is the most efficient way to add the Local Security Policy, especially if you don’t want to go through multiple steps.

Consequently, when you search for the Local Security Policy using the Search icon, you can pin it to your Taskbar. This will make it appear alongside your frequently used applications and be easy to locate.

For more information on how to open the Local Security Policy, check out this guide on how to open Local Security Policy.

With all this talk about security, you may also be interested in some of the best Windows 11 security settings to ensure your system is attack-free. Remember, effective account management is just as critical to security, and you may consider enabling Local Users and Groups.

If you’ve been able to add the Local Security Policy in Windows 11, let us know which method you found easy to use in the comment section below.

18 games headed to Xbox next week, February 13-17

Posted on by Robert Collins

2023 has been a stout year for Xbox so far, with a steady stream of new releases that is set to continue next week with 18 new games. Among them are a couple of day-one Xbox Game Pass releases, and all in all it’s a pretty solid lineup with a good mix of game types, so there should be something new for everyone. Let’s check out next week’s lineup.

So which of these games has got you excited for next week? Let us know down in the comments.

Featured image via Xbox.com. 

Nvidia Display Driver Service Missing: 3 Ways to get it Back

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Unfortunately, many users have reported lately that their Nvidia display driver service is missing. Also, often there is no indication or error message of what may be wrong.

Sometimes, this results from faulty or missing drivers impacting the associated software. Also, it can appear due to the latest updates or even missing registry subkeys and values.

We will explore the most efficient ways to fix the Nvidia display driver not showing issue. So make sure to keep on reading.

What is NVIDIA display driver service?

The NVIDIA Display Driver Service is a background process that runs on Windows computers with NVIDIA graphics cards.

It manages the communication between the graphics card and the operating system. Also, it updates the graphics card drivers and ensures that graphics-intensive applications run smoothly.

Features of the NVIDIA Display Driver Service include:

  • Driver Management – The service automatically updates NVIDIA graphics card drivers to ensure that the card is always running the latest version.
  • Graphics Performance Optimization – It optimizes graphics performance by managing the communication between the graphics card and the operating system. This allows graphics-intensive applications to run more smoothly.
  • Error Reporting – The service collects and reports error information to NVIDIA, helping to identify and resolve problems with the graphics card or drivers.
  • System Monitoring – The service monitors the system for graphics-related issues and takes appropriate action to resolve them.
  • Customizable Settings – Users can configure the service to their preferences, such as adjusting the graphics quality and enabling certain features.

How can I fix the Nvidia display driver service missing?

1. Unhide the NVIDIA Control Panel

  1. Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.
  2. Change the View by option to Large Icons and double-click on NVIDIA Control Panel.
  3. Go to the Desktop Tab and tick Add Desktop Context Menu and Show Notification Tray Icon.nvidia display driver service missing
  4. Finally, close the NVIDIA Control Panel and see if it appears in the menu.

2. Restart the NVIDIA Services

  1. Bring up the Run tab by pressing Windows + R, type in services.msc, and press Enter.
    nvidia display driver service missing
  2. Locate NVIDIA Display Container LS, right-click on it, and select Restart.
  3. Lastly, follow the same steps for each service that start with NVIDIA.

3. Use the Device Manager

  1. Open the Run window by pressing Windows+R.
  2. Next, type devmgmt.msc and press OK.
    nvidia display driver service missing
  3. In the Device Manager window, locate and expand Display Adaptors.
  4. Right-click on NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M and select Update driver.
  5. Select Search automatically for drivers.
  6. Install the found drivers and allow for the process to finish.
  7. Finally, make sure to restart your device at the end.

Also, you could use some information from our NVIDIA driver fix article and learn what to do if the driver is incompatible.

Additionally, you can use a dedicated third-party tool. Since most issues regarding software’s poor performance or inaccessibility are related to outdated or faulty drivers, using a reliable tool to fix them is recommended.

As you can see in the solutions presented above, several options exist to update the drivers manually, but they take much more time and are not entirely error-free.

These are the most common solutions for the NVIDIA display driver service missing or not starting, and we hope that the presented solutions have helped you fix the problem in no time.

Which one have you tried and has worked best for you? Lastly, if you have additional tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to write them in the dedicated section below.

Desktop Window Manager Stopped Working: 6 Ways to Restore it

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

The DWM provides a smooth and seamless experience when opening and closing windows, switching between applications and using Aero Glass effects. However, the Desktop Window Manager stopped working for some users, causing visual glitches, freezes, or even crashes.

DWM is a critical component of the Windows operating system responsible for handling the display and visual effects of windows on the screen.

In this article, we’ll explore ways to resolve this article.

Why has Desktop Window Manager stopped working?

There could be several reasons why the Desktop Window Manager (DWM) service has stopped working. Some common causes include the following:

  • Driver issues – Outdated or faulty graphics card drivers can cause the DWM service to stop working.
  • System updates – Windows updates can sometimes cause compatibility issues with the DWM service.
  • System files corruption – Corrupted system files can prevent the DWM service from functioning correctly.
  • Third-party software – Certain third-party software, such as antivirus programs, can interfere with the DWM service.
  • Low system resources – The DWM service requires a significant amount of system resources, and if the system needs more resources, it may stop working.

You can try the recommended solutions below if you are experiencing issues with the Desktop Window Manager.

What can I do if Desktop Window Manager has stopped working?

1. Run a system scan

  1. Press the Windows Key, type command, right-click on the app, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the command prompt, type the script below and hit Enter.
    sfc /scannow
    desktop window manager stopped working
  3. Wait for the command to run entirely, then restart your computer.

You can repair damaged Windows files by running a system scan. To perform this task, you need a Windows setup CD or DVD.

Performing a system scan is not something one should try to fix manually unless skilled, so it is best to leave these things to dedicated third-party software.

2. Enable the Desktop Window Manager

Windows Manager Session Manager
  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. Find and then right-click Desktop Windows Manager Session Manager, and select Start.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  3. Right-click on the Desktop Windows Manager Session Manager again, and choose Proprieties.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  4. Go to the General tab, and set the Startup type to Automatic.
  5. Click OK to save changes.

3. Perform a Clean Boot

  1. Press Windows + R, type in MSConfig, and hit Enter.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  2. Go to the Services tab.
  3. Check the box labeled Hide All Microsoft Services, and select Disable all.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  4. Go to the Startup section, and select the Open Task Manager.
  5. Right-click on all displayed apps and select Disable one by one.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  6. Exit the Task Manager, and click OK on the System Configuration window.
  7. Restart your PC, and check if anything has changed.

When performing a clean boot, the system looks for conflicts between programs to identify the root causes of your technical issue.

4. Check for Windows updates

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click Update & Security.
  3. Click the Check for updates button.

Accessing the Windows Update Settings is easy since all you need to do is follow the above steps.

Ensuring your Windows PC is up to date means having your OS in optimal condition. In addition, the latest updates might offer repairs for errors you are dealing with.

Windows Update will find and list the most recent updates if there are any.

5. Try to create a new user account

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open Run, type netplwiz, and press Enter.
  2. In the User Accounts window, click the Add button.
  3. Select Sign in without a Microsoft account.
  4. Select Local Account, type in the details for the new account, then click Next and Finish.
  5. Restart your PC, and log in with the new account.

Creating a new account is a quick and simple alternative to reinstalling your OS. However, your user account could be corrupted, and you should try creating another account and see if it works.

6. Run a system restore

  1. Press the Windows Key + S, type Create a restore point, and select Create a restore point from the list.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  2. In the System Properties window, click on the System Restore button.
    desktop window manager stopped working
  3. Press on the Next button to proceed.
  4. Check the Show more restore points option, if available, or choose your restore point and click Next to proceed.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

If System Restore is turned off, you cannot use this feature, so be aware before starting the process.

This isn’t the only issue, and if this process stops working, it can be due to Desktop Window Manager high memory usage.

If our solutions helped you out, or you have other working solutions, feel free to leave a comment in the section below; we will be happy to check them out.

Microsoft’s year of AI continues with tentative March announcements

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

Microsoft is gearing up for another artificial intelligence led announcement tentatively scheduled for next month where it will showcase more OpenAI influenced technologies for its productivity suite.

During its Bing + ChatGPT announcement earlier this week, Microsoft alluded to the difference between the publicly available ChatGPT experience and a seemingly beefier version that leverages its Prometheus Model in Bing.

According to The Verge, Microsoft’s Prometheus Model powered version of ChatGPT will be in more than just Bing as the company plans to share details in March of its push into productivity with OpenAI’s language AI technologies.

It should be noted that Microsoft has already implemented OpenAI technologies into many of its productivity and enterprise tools such as Azure, Microsoft Viva Sales, Word and Outlook. The integration has been subtle until now with OpenAI powering the suggested reply function in compositions for Outlook and Word.

However, it looks like Microsoft plans to expand the current Bing sidebar integrated tools that appear alongside Office web apps into dedicated apps which could span both desktop and mobile use.

Based on The Verge reporting, Microsoft is looking to bolster its templates, suggested graphics, graphs and other visualizations in apps such as Excel and PowerPoint with more details leveraged from OpenI language models.

Microsoft appears to be stepping on the gas as a way for the company to get out ahead of similar announcements it believes Google will have in the coming months as well.

Sources tell The Verge that Microsoft was originally planning to launch its new Bing AI in late February, but pushed the date forward to this week just as Google was preparing its own announcements. Google then announced its ChatGPT rival Bard a day ahead of Microsoft’s event.

Contrary to the neck and neck pace of announcements and perceived competition, a number of Microsoft executives believe they’re ahead of Google’s development in this particular market, and that their competition may come from lesser-known rivals in the sector.

Microsoft is currently enjoying a bump in media attention and a slightly renewed interest in Bing as it saw more than 1 million sign ups for the Bing +ChatGPT waitlist and its own Bing app rank as the third most popular app in Apple’s App Store in the US this week.

Microsoft’s Surface, Xbox, and HoloLens divisions affected by the planned layoffs

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

In January, Microsoft announced its plans to cut 10,000 employees over the next coming months. The company’s CEO further highlighted that initial plans made during the COVID-19 pandemic didn’t quite turn out as expected, and that they were facing a different economic reality.

Bloomberg reports that Microsoft’s plan to cut some employees from its workforce continued to take shape yesterday. The affected parties are reportedly spread across the Surface devices, HoloLens mixed reality hardware, and Xbox divisions. 343 Industries was also affected last month though Microsoft promised to continue supporting Halo Infinite.

Earlier this month, Microsoft’s COO and CVP of Windows and Devices, Robin Seiler highlighted that Microsoft is still committed to supporting HoloLens 2 and its Mixed Reality program despite concerns by the public. With the news of the layoffs hitting the Hololens hardware team hard, it is difficult to establish Microsoft’s commitment to it. What’s more, it is unclear whether the production of a third iteration of the goggles is still in play.

The Information also reported that Microsoft’s Industrial Metaverse team has also been scrapped completely. The company put this team in place four months ago to help drive the sales of Microsoft’s mixed reality headset as well as make HoloLens the new screen for frontline workers.

Microsoft hasn’t commented on the layoffs but has affirmed its commitment to the mixed reality space and the current HoloLens 2 version. It hasn’t yet been established how hard both the Xbox and Surface divisions have been hit. Though Xbox boss, Phil Spener did send out an email stating, “I encourage everyone to take the time and space necessary to process these changes and support your colleagues.”

According to a WARN notice filed in Seattle, 617 employees have been affected. This adds to the massive layoffs trend that has been going on across major tech firms. Just yesterday, Microsoft’s GitHub, GitLab, and Yahoo announced that they’ll be cutting their workforce.

System Scan at Raised IRQL Blue Screen: 7 Ways to Fix it

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Blue Screen of Death errors is probably some of the most severe errors on Windows 10. Errors such as System Scan at Raised IRQL will restart your computer to prevent damage to your PC.

Therefore, you must know how to fix them. And knowing the level of urgency, we have prepared this guide to help you select the System Scan at Raised IRQL caught improper driver unload error.

What does stop code System Scan at Raised IRQL mean?

Below are some of the possible causes of the System Scan at Raised IRQL issue:

  • Outdated driver: The major cause of this issue is an outdated or faulty driver. Reinstalling or updating the faulty driver should solve this problem quickly.
  • Faulty memory partition: Another cause of this problem is a corrupt memory sector. You can fix this by running the CHKDSK command.
  • Antivirus interference: At times, the System Scan at Raised IRQL accompanied by the Invprotectdrv64 sys code and a blue screen can be down to issues with your third-party antivirus. The best solution is to uninstall the software temporarily and probably replace it with one of the best antiviruses for Windows 10.

Now that we know the causes of this issue, listed below are some of its variations, as reported by users:

  • System_scan_at_raised_irql_caught_improper_driver_unload Windows 10: This error can affect any version of Windows, and users reported this issue in Windows 10.
  • System_scan_at_raised_irql_caught_improper_driver_unload spac.sys, nvlddmkm.sys: Sometimes, this error message will give you the file name that caused it. If this happens, you can use the file name to easily find the software, hardware, or driver that is causing this issue.

How can I fix System Scan at Raised IRQL?

1. Repair Windows 10 with a specialized software

We recommend using third-party software that scans your PC and aims to repair all the damaged files that keep your Windows OS from working correctly. It’s a fast and secure way to protect your device and maintain your system in optimal condition.

2. Update Windows 10

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Update & Security option.
    update and system scan at irql
  2. Click the Check for updates button.
    check for
  3. Now, install any available updates and restart your PC.

Windows updates are essential for the smooth running of your PC. However, they mostly contain bug fixes for hardware and software issues that can lead to Blues Screen errors like System Scan at Raised IRQL.

Hence, you should always download and install the latest patches.

3. Uninstall the problematic drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager from the list.
    System_scan_at_raised_irql_caught_improper_driver_unload nvlddmkm.sys
  2. Double-click the Display adapters option to expand it and right-click the device there.
  3. Now, choose Uninstall device.
    System_scan_at_raised_irql_caught_improper_driver_unload Windows 10
  4. If available, check the Delete the driver software for this device box and click the Uninstall button.
    System_scan_at_raised_irql_caught_improper_driver_unload Windows 10
  5. Finally, wait for Windows 10 to remove your driver and restart your PC.

Sometimes specific drivers aren’t compatible with Windows 10 and cause the System Scan at Raised IRQL Blue Screen of Death error. So, you’ll have to remove them.

Aside from the method above, some users suggest using Display Driver Uninstaller to remove your graphic card driver, so you might want to try that as well.

We must mention that this problem was reported by SiS Mirage 3 Graphics owners, but even if you own a different graphic card, you can still try this solution.

4. Download the latest drivers

  1. Right-click the Start Menu and select the Device Manager option.
    device manager
  2. Expand the Display adapters option and right-click the device there.
  3. Now, select Update driver.
    update driver system scan at irql
  4. Finally, choose Search automatically for drivers and install any available updates.
    search auto

If uninstalling your driver does not eliminate the System Scan at Raised IRQL error, you need to update your driver to the latest version. You can do that manually by following the steps above or via the manufacturer’s website.

Alternatively, you can use a dedicated driver updater in Outbyte Driver Updater to update your drivers automatically.

With this tool, you won’t be missing any necessary updates. This is because it comes with a Schedule Manager feature that offers notification whenever new patches are available.

What’s more, you have a vast database at your disposal that offers over 18 million driver files that you can download to keep your device functioning at its best capacity.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

5. Uninstall your antivirus/firewall

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Apps option.
    apps system scan at irql
  2. Select the app you want to remove and click the Uninstall button.
    uninstall
  3. Finally, follow the onscreen instructions to complete the removal process.

Firewalls and antiviruses are essential for your system’s safety. However, they can interfere with Windows 10 and cause the System Scan at Raised IRQL error to appear.

According to users, Barracuda NextGen Firewall F-Series was causing this error to appear, and after removing this tool, the BSoD error was fixed.

So, you should remove any third-party antivirus you are using and check if the error is fixed.

6. Run the CHKDSK scan

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin
  2. Type the command (change C to your drive letter) below and hit Enter to run it: chkdsk c: /rchkdsk r system scan at irql
  3. Now, press Y when prompted, and the scan will start automatically after restarting your PC.

The System Scan at Raised IRQL can sometimes occur due to corrupted files on your hard drive. To find and fix those files, it’s recommended that you perform a CHKDSK scan.

We have to mention that you’ll have to repeat this scan for all hard drive partitions to fix this error.

If you can’t boot into your PC normally, follow the steps below to run the scan:

  1. Restart your computer a few times during the boot sequence to enter the Advanced recovery menu.
  2. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
    advanced options
  3. Now, select the Command Prompt.
    command prompt
  4. Finally, type the command below and hit Enter to run it: chkdsk c: /rchkdsk r system scan at irql

With this, you should be able to fix the bad sectors on your drive.

7. Remove overclock settings and check your hardware

Many users tend to overclock their hardware for better performance, but overclocking your hardware comes with certain risks.

If you’re not careful, you can cause permanent damage to your PC by overclocking, or you can get a Blue Screen of Death error.

Several users reported that they managed to fix this error by setting their RAM settings to default. However, remember that almost any overclocked component can cause this error, so remove all overclock settings.

If your PC isn’t overclocked, this error could be caused by faulty or recently installed hardware, so be sure to remove any new hardware since it might not be compatible with your PC.

If that doesn’t work, check your RAM, motherboard, hard drive, and all other major components. You can also try using the best-dedicated software for fixing BSoD errors.

We can conclude this guide on the System Scan at Raised IRQL issue. You now have all the information needed to fix the issue and only need to follow the instructions carefully.

Let us know which of the abovementioned methods worked best for you in the comments below.

Microsoft Edge 110 hits the Stable Channel with some tweaks

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft has released a fresh update to the Stable Channel for everyone to download, bumping it to version 110.0.1587.41. The release is fairly minor, but it does unpack several feature updates. Here’s everything you need to know:

First up is the new Immersive Reader policies, designed to simplify your web page layouts. The new policies will allow admins to control the accessibility of Grammar Tools and Picture Dictionary features within Immersive Reader. Next up is the added capability to enable sync for Azure Active Directory signed in customers. This will allow users to “sync roams data across all signed in instances of Microsoft Edge”.

And finally, Edge will now provide users with an easy way to send files and notes across all signed in mobile and desktop devices dubbed Drop. Aside from these feature updates, the release also features some depreciated and new policies. We invite you to check out Microsoft’s changelog for more on these.

Microsoft Edge should auto-update to the latest version, but if it doesn’t, you can trigger it manually. Just head to the browser’s menu, choose Help and Feedback then About Microsoft Edge and wait for the update to download, and then restart.

In related news, Adobe Acrobat recently got deeply integrated with Edge to further enhance the PDF experience for users. Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

BDO Corrupted File Detected: Fix It with These 5 Methods

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Black Desert is an MMORPG game for Windows with millions of players. However, some of its players reported BDO Corrupted file detected message.

There are other problems, such as high CPU usage in Black Desert, but we already tackled that in a separate guide. Therefore, today we’ll focus on fixing corrupted files.

What causes the corrupted file detected error in BDO?

There are several reasons for this error message, but the following ones are the most common:

  • Antivirus software – It’s possible that your antivirus is blocking exe files, thus causing this problem. To fix it, disable it temporarily or add the game to the list of exclusions.
  • Corrupted game files – If your files are corrupted, you might get a Corrupt disk error in Steam or any other platform. To fix it, find and remove those files manually.
  • Damaged installation – Sometimes, your installation can get damaged and cause this issue. If that happens, your only option is to reinstall the game.

How can I fix BDO corrupted file detected error?

1. Disable third-party antivirus software

  1. Open the System Tray from the Taskbar, right-click on the antivirus icon, and disable the toggle for Protection is ON.disable av
  2. Click Yes to confirm the action.confirm
Note icon NOTE
Keep in mind that these steps will be different depending on the antivirus software that you have installed.

2. Delete the version.dat file

  1. Press Windows + E to launch File Explorer, open the Black Desert Online installation folder (BDOnline), and locate the version.dat file.version.dat
  2. Right-click the version.dat file and select Delete.delete to fix bdo corrupted file detected
  3. Thereafter, open the Black Desert Online Launcher again, which will update the file deleted.

Some players have also said renaming, not deleting, the version.dat file can resolve the issue. All you have to do is change its name to versionold.dat.

3. Clear out your download folder

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, and open the Downloads folder.download folder
  2. Press the Ctrl + A hotkey to select all content within your downloads folder, and then hit Del to delete them.delete files to fix bdo corrupted file detected
  3. Choose the appropriate response in case a confirmation prompt appears.
Note icon NOTE
If your hard drive has very little free space, it’s also recommended you free up some storage space. Check out our best methods to free up hard disk space guide for further details about cleaning hard drives.

4. Reinstall Black Desert Online

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, enter appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click OK.appwiz.cpl to fix bdo corrupted file detected
  2. Next, select Black Desert Online from the programs listed here, and click Uninstall.uninstall
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process, and once done, restart the computer.
  4. Now, open the Black Desert website and click on Download Client.
  5. Run the setup and let it install the relevant files for the game.

The default Windows uninstaller often leaves behind leftover files. You can uninstall Black Desert Online and thoroughly erase its leftover files with a freeware third-party uninstaller utility like IObit Uninstaller.

⇒ Get IObit Uninstaller

5. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic utility

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Seach menu, type memory and select Windows Memory Diagnostic.
  2. Click on Restart now and check for problems.memory diagnostic to fix bdo corrupted file detected
Note icon NOTE
If the Windows Memory Diagnostic reports errors, you might need to replace a faulty RAM module to fix Black Desert’s corrupted file detected issue.

The potential fixes above are ones some players have confirmed can help resolve BDO’s corrupted file detected error.

Can a corrupted file be uncorrupted?

While it’s not entirely impossible to uncorrupt a file, the chances of you being able to do that manually are low. And it, to a certain degree, depends on what caused the problem. In case it’s malware or virus, a reliable antivirus might come in handy.

But, if a file is corrupted due to bad sectors on the hard drive, there is not much you can do beyond running the built-in Check Disk utility. For corrupt system files, running the DISM tool and SFC scan may help.

Besides, if the normal files are corrupt, it’s best to use dedicated repair software to uncorrupt them. To avoid this trouble, we recommend using automatic backup software to quickly retrieve a copy of the corrupted file.

For avid gamers, we recommend you check some quick tips and tricks to boost Windows’ gaming performance.

Did you find a different solution for this problem? If so, let us know in the comments section below.

Windows 11 Hidden Icon Menu: How to Turn It On Or Off

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

On the Windows 11 Taskbar, you only see a few apps or icons on the system tray, and the rest of the running apps are hidden.

To access the hidden apps, you need to click on the upward arrow, and the flyout menu will appear. Fewer icons keep your System Tray and Taskbar clutter-free; however, if you don’t want that, you can permanently disable the hidden icon menu on Windows 11. 

In this guide, we will cover all the methods to turn the hidden icon menu off or on. Let’s get started! 

How can I disable or enable the hidden icon menu on Windows 11? 

1. Use the Settings

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. 
  2. Click Personalization from the left pane and click Taskbar in the right pane. Taskbar -Hidden appear -Hidden icons out -windows 11 hidden icon menu
  3. Scroll through the Taskbar settings, and locate the Other system tray icons option. Other system tray icons
  4. You will get a list of apps under the option. Toggle on the button for the app you want to appear on Taskbar. 
  5. To disable the upward arrow or the hidden icon menu altogether, toggle on the switch all the apps listed. 
  6. To enable it again, toggle off the switch for all the apps listed.

2. Use the drag n drop method

  1. Go to Taskbar, locate the corner overflow option, and click on it.
  2. Press and hold the app icon from the menu, and drag and drop it on the Taskbar. Hidden icon menu
  3. Do the same for all the apps present in the hidden icon menu. Once all the apps are off the menu, the hidden icon menu will disappear.
  4. To make the hidden icon appear again, click and hold the icon and drag it. You will see the upward arrow and drop the icon in it.Hidden appear -Hidden icons out -windows 11 hidden icon menu

3. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type Regedit and press Enter to open Registry Editor. 
  3. First, we need to take a backup. For that, click File and select Export. Now save the .reg file to a desired location.REG Save
  4. Follow this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
  5. Right-click on the right pane, select New, then click DWORD. Rename it as NoTrayItemsDisplay.New key
  6. Double-click the DWORD and change the Value data for DWORD to 1. Value 1 -windows 11 hidden icon menu
  7. If you want to enable it, change the DWORD’s Value data to 0.Value 0
  8. Restart your computer to let the changes take effect.

4. Use the Control Panel 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console. Explorer run hidden icon menu windows 11
  2. Copy and paste the following command in the empty field and press Enter: explorer shell:::{05d7b0f4-2121-4eff-bf6b-ed3f69b894d9} 
  3. On the next window, remove the checkmark next to Always show all icons and notifications on the Taskbar and click OK. Always show

So, these are the methods you can follow to turn on or off the hidden icon menu on Windows 11. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below. 

Speaking of hidden features, there’s a way to show system tray icons on all monitors on Windows 11 with a few quick tweaks.

No one wants a slow computer, so take a look at some simple tips on how your Taskbar can make your Windows run faster and more seamlessly.

Windows XP Sounds for Windows 11: How to Download & Set Up

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

 Do you want to bring back the nostalgia of using Windows XP with the iconic startup and shutdown sounds on your Windows 11?

This guide will discuss ways to download and set up the Windows XP sounds for Windows 11. Let’s start! 

How can I download and set up Windows XP sounds on Windows 11? 

1. Enable Windows XP startup sound 

1.1 Download the .wav file 

  1. Go to the Vsthemes website.
  2. Scroll the page and click Download file to download all the Windows XP sounds.Download File WAV file
  3. Now next page, click Download.Download from server -windows xp sounds for windows 11
  4. Save the file in an accessible location.

1.2 Make changes in Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type regedit and hit Enter to open Registry Editor.
  3. First, take a backup, go to File, then click Export. Next, save the .reg file on your computer.REG save
  4. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\AppEvents\EventLabels\WindowsLogonExclude Windows Logoff
  5. Double-click ExcludeFromCPL and change the Value data to 0.
  6. Restart your computer.

1.3 Change settings in Control Panel  

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.Control Panel
  2. For View by, select Category. Click Hardware and Sound.Category sound
  3. On the next page, under Sound, click Change system sounds.Change system sounds -windows xp sounds for windows 11
  4. Go to the Sounds tab, under Program Events, under Windows, and click Windows logon.
  5. Click Browse.Sound settings -windows xp sounds for windows 11
  6. Select the file you downloaded, and click Open.Startup sound open
  7. Click Apply and then OK.Apply and OK
  8. Restart your computer to listen to the sound.

2. Enable Windows XP shut down sound

2.1 Make changes in Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run console.
  2. Type regedit and hit Enter to open Registry Editor.Logoff -windows xp sounds for windows 11
  3. Navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\AppEvents\EventLabels\WindowsLogoff
  4. Locate ExcludeFromCPL and change the Value data to 0.
  5. Restart your PC.

2.3 Change settings in Control Panel  

  1. Open Control Panel by using the steps mentioned in the first method.
  2. For View by, select Category. Click Hardware and Sound.Category sound -windows xp sounds for windows 11
  3. Under Sound, click Change system sounds.Change system sounds
  4. On the next page, under Program Events, navigate to Windows, then select Windows Logoff.
  5. Click Browse.Logoff
  6. Select the shutdown sound from the folder you downloaded in the first step and click Open.Browse shutdown
  7. Click Apply and then OK.Winfows Logoff Browse

3. Enable other sounds 

  1. Open Control Panel by using the steps mentioned in the first method.
  2. For View by selecting Category from the drop-down. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Under Sound and click Change system sounds.
  4. Now go to Program Events under Windows, navigate to the sound you want to change, and select it. Click Browse.Notifcation -windows xp sounds for windows 11
  5. Select the .wav file from the downloaded folder and click Open.Notification Open
  6. Click Apply and OK.Apply and OK

So, this is how you can download and set up Windows XP sounds on your Windows 11 computer. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

Windows XP was one of the best versions of Windows, and you can still keep using it with a few tips mentioned here.

For fans of Windows 7, we have a great article on Windows 7 startup sound, so don’t miss it.

8 Ways to View Advanced System Settings on Windows 10

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

If you’re trying to find Advanced System Settings in Windows 10, you’re in the right place.

They’re hidden in menus within menus, which can make them hard to access. But don’t worry, we’ll show you a few ways to get there.

How can I get to Advanced system settings on Windows 10? 

1. Use the Control Panel 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. Control Panel Windows 10
  2. Click View by and select Category from the drop-down. 
  3. Now click System and Security. System and security -advanced system settings windows 10
  4. Click System.System
  5. On the next page, select System.system - settings
  6. Click Advanced system settings from the left pane. Advanced System settings
  7. On the System Properties window, go to the Advanced tab. Advanced

2. Use the Search bar 

  1. Click the search bar and type View advanced system properties. Choose the best match and click Open. search bar advanded system settings on Windows 10
  2. Go to the Advanced tab. 

3. Use the Run console 

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window. Sys -advanced system settings windows 10
  2. Type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter to open System Properties. 
  3. Once you have the System Properties open, click on Advanced. 

4. Use the File Explorer 

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
  2. Right-click on This PC and select Properties. ThiS PC properties
  3. Now click Advanced system settings. advanced system settings

5. Use the Start button 

  1. Right-click on the Start button and choose System from the context menu.System
  2. Click the Advanced system settings option from the left pane. 

6. Use the Settings app 

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. System settings
  2. Click System, then click About. About advanced system settings
  3. Now click Advanced system settings. 

7. Use the Windows PowerShell

  1. Go to the search bar, type PowerShell, and click Run as administrator. PowerShell Windows 10
  2. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter: SystemPropertiesAdvancedPowershell

8. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Go to the search bar, type Command Prompt, and click Run as administrator. COmmand Prompt Windows 10
  2. Type the following command to open Advanced system settings and press Enter: control sysdm.cplCMD

What are the best advanced system settings for optimization?

  1. Open Advanced system settings using one of the methods mentioned above. SystemProperties Advanced
  2. With the Performance option, you can modify the visual effects, change VRAM size, and configure processor scheduling.  SystemProperties Performance Advanced
  3. Next, the User Profiles option can create, manage, and delete user profiles.User profiles
  4. With the Start and Recovery option, you can configure settings to decide what happens if your computer encounters a problem. Also, you can configure System Restore, manage disk space usage and perform system restore operations.SystemPropertiesComputerName Startup Recovery
  5. The Environment Variables button can let you view and edit environment variables used by apps and operating systems to keep configuration information. SystemProperties Environment Variables

Advanced System Settings in Windows 10 let you optimize performance, manage virtual memory, configure user profiles, and even adjust startup options.

No wonder it’s a go-to tool for users who care about system maintenance.

So, this is how you can get to advanced system settings on Windows 10 using sysdm.cpl to improve the performance of your computer and modify environment variables. If you’re using a legacy version of Windows, we also have a guide on how to access advanced system settings on Windows 7.

On the other hand, if you upgraded, here’s how you can view advanced system settings in Windows 11.

Knowing how to make your Windows run faster and improve your computer performance can help enhance user experience and keep your Windows up and running.

Google Indic Keyboard for Windows 11: How to Download & Install

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Today we’ll tell you all you need to know to install the Google Indic Keyboard on your Windows 11 PC.

The app isn’t in the Microsoft Store, you’ll have to use an Android Emulator for it. To simplify the process, we will walk you through the steps in the next section of this guide.

How do I install Google Indic Keyboard on Windows 11?

1. Download Bluestacks 5

  1. Visit the official Bluestacks website and click the Download Bluestacks 5 button.
    download google indic keyboard for windows 11
  2. Wait for the installer to finish downloading and go to the download location.
  3. Now, double-click the BlueStacksinstaller.exe file to launch it.
    installer
  4. Next, click the Install now button and wait for the installation process to complete.
    install now
  5. Finally, the BlueStacks app will launch automatically when the installation is complete.

2. Download Google Indic Keyboard

  1. Launch the BlueStacks app.
  2. Click the Play Store icon on the home screen.
    play store google indic keyboard for windows 11
  3. Next, log into your Google account.
    sign in
  4. Now, search for Google Indic Keyboard.
    search google indic keyboard for windows 11
  5. Click the Install button and wait for the process to complete.
  6. Finally, double-click on the app and start typing in your preferred language.

With the steps above, you have successfully installed the Google Indic Keyboard on Windows 11. Note that you can only use the app on your Android emulator, so you should not remove BlueStack or any other emulator you use.

If you want to download Google Input Tools on your PC, check our detailed guide to do it effortlessly.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below if you encounter any problems downloading the app.

Windows 10 Undoing Changes Made to Your Computer [Fix]

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

The undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10 is an update-related issue. Most users encounter it after installing the latest patches on their PC.

This Blue Screen error can be frustrating, as it rarely finishes undoing the changes. This guide will show the easy ways to stop this endless loop and restore normalcy on your PC.

What is the undoing changes made to Windows 10?

The undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10 occur when there is an issue with an update. Below are some of the causes of this issue:

  • Faulty system files: One of the leading causes of this error is a broken or missing system file. The quickest way to rectify this is to repair and restore these files.
  • Faulty or incomplete Windows update: In some cases, this error shows up because of an issue with the update you are trying to install. You need to uninstall this update to restore regular service on your PC.
  • Issues with third-party apps and processes: Sometimes, third-party apps might run programs that interfere with your Windows update. To ensure this is not the case, you should enable Safe Mode and check if the issue persists.

How do I fix undoing changes in Windows 10?

Before exploring the solutions in this section, below are some troubleshooting steps to try:

  • Turn off your WiFi
  • Wait it out
  • Shutdown your PC

If these do not solve the problem, you can now delve into the solutions below:

1. Enable Safe Mode

  1. Press and hold the power button to shut down your PC forcibly. Power it on and force it to shut down when the Windows logo appears. Repeat this thrice to bring up the Advanced recovery menu.
  2. Select the Troubleshoot option.
    troubleshoot undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  3. Now, choose Advanced options.
    advanced options
  4. Select Startup Settings.
    startup settings
  5. Next, click the Restart button.
    retart undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  6. Press the corresponding key to Enable Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking when your PC restarts.
    enable safe mode

The first thing to do if you are dealing with the undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10 is to try to enter Safe Mode.

If this is successful, you know the issue is not caused by drivers and other critical processes needed to run your PC.

2. Repair system files

  1. If you can’t boot into your PC normally, repeat the steps above to enter Safe Mode.
  2. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin
  3. Now, type the command below and hit Enter to run it: DISM.exe/Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealthdism restore undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  4. Wait for the command to finish running. If you encounter any issues, insert a media installation drive on your PC and run the command (replace C:/Repair/Source/Windows with the installation drive letter) below: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:RepairSourceWindows /LimitAccessdism repair
  5. Now, wait for the command to finish running, type the command below, and hit Enter: sfc/scannowsfc scan
  6. Finally, wait for the command to finish running and restart your PC.

The Windows 10 undoing changes made to your computer error can be down to corrupt system files. However, Windows 10 has built-in tools to repair and restore these files.

Alternatively, you can save yourself the stress of running multiple commands and go for a specialized system file repairer.

3. Delete the latest updates

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Update & Security.
    update and undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  2. Select the View update history option.
    view update
  3. Now, choose Uninstall updates.
    uninstall updates undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  4. Right-click the faulty update and select Uninstall.
    uninstall update
  5. Finally, follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

Another quick way to solve the undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10 is to uninstall the faulty update. This will reverse the changes made to your PC, causing the error.

4. Enable metered connection

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select Network & Internet.
    network and
  2. Click the Properties button under your active connection.
    properties undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  3. Now, toggle the switch under Set as metered connection forward to enable it.
    set metered

If you encountered Windows 10 undoing the changes made to your computer error while installing an update, the best thing to do is to stop automatic updates temporarily.

The easiest way to do this is to enable the metered connection.

5. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Update & Security option.
    update and undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  2. Select the Troubleshoot option in the left pane and click Additional troubleshooters.
    troubleshoot settings
  3. Now, choose Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
    run the update undoing changes made to your computer windows 10
  4. Finally, apply any recommended fixes.

Since this is an update-related issue, you must involve the Windows Update troubleshooter. This tool restarts all the required services and components to update your PC.

It also checks for any glitch responsible for the undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10.

6. Rename the Software Distribution folder

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cm admin
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter each: net stop wuauservnet stop net stop bitsnet stop bits rename C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\ to SoftwareDistribution.bakrename net start wuauservnet start wuauservundoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10 net start bitsnet startundoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10
  3. Finally, wait for the commands to finish running and try to update your PC again.

The Software Distribution folder saves your updated files and cache. However, it can get corrupt over time, leading to issues like the undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10.

To fix this, you need to rename the folder and allow your PC to create a new one.

7. Perform a system restore

  1. Repeat steps 1 to 3 in solution 1.
  2. Select the System Restore option.
    system restore
  3. Now, select a restore point and click the Next button.
    restore point
  4. Finally, follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

If none of the solutions above solves this problem, you need to perform a system restore. This will restore your PC to a point when everything is working well and restore normalcy.

We have concluded this detailed guide on the undoing changes made to your computer error on Windows 10. You now have everything you need to fix the issue and only need to follow the instructions carefully.

If you are facing a similar issue in can’t complete the update undoing changes on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to fix it.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you fix this issue in the comments below.

How to Enable TLS 1.0 and 1.1 in Windows 11

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 are the two most popular versions of the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol, which provides security for Internet communications such as Web browsing, email, and instant messaging. 

Given that attackers are constantly developing new methods of attack, there have been some vulnerabilities found in earlier versions of TLS which can allow attackers to decrypt your data. Nevertheless, here’s how you can enable either in Windows 11.

What’s the difference between TLS 1.0 and 1.1?

TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 are the two most widely used versions of the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol. Both versions offer a similar level of security and encryption. However, there are some differences that users should be aware of when choosing between them:

  • Security – In terms of security, there is little difference between these two protocols: both are still considered secure, though some may consider them obsolete and prefer newer versions such as TLS 1.2 or even 1.3 (which isn’t supported by many browsers yet).
  • Speed – TLS 1.1 is faster than TLS 1.0 because it uses fewer CPU cycles during processing.
  • Difficulty in upgrading – Some older client applications may not be able to support newer versions of the protocol due to a lack of resources or compatibility issues with their operating systems.

How do I enable TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 in Windows 11?

1. Enable TLS 1.0

1.1 Use the Control Panel

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar and click Open.control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  2. Select Network and Internet.
  3. Click on Internet Options.
  4. In the Internet Properties dialog box that pops up, navigate to the Advanced tab.
  5. Scroll down and under Settings, check the box next to Use TLS 1.0, then hit the Apply and OK buttons to save changes.

1.2 Use the Run command

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type inetcpl.cpl in the dialog box and hit Enter.
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab in the Internet Properties window that pops up.
  4. Scroll down and under Settings, check the box next to Use TLS 1.0 then hit the Apply and OK buttons to save changes.

2. Enable TLS 1.1

2.1 Use the Control Panel

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar and click Open.control-panel-search fallout new vegas runtime error
  2. Select Network and Internet.
  3. Click on Internet Options.
  4. In the Internet Properties dialog box that pops up, navigate to the Advanced tab.
  5. Scroll down and under Settings, check the box next to Use TLS 1.1, then hit the Apply and OK buttons to save changes.

2.2 Use the Run command

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type inetcpl.cpl in the dialog box and hit Enter.
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab in the Internet Properties window that pops up.
  4. Scroll down and under Settings, check the box next to Use TLS 1.1, then hit the Apply and OK buttons to save changes.

Although you can still enable the TLS 1.0 and 1.1 protocols, it is important to note that they are no longer supported by most browsers and cannot be trusted to provide secure connections.

You can also enable TLS support depending on the browser you’re using. To that effect, we have a list of browsers that support the latest TLS versions. If you experience the TLS error, we also have an article detailing how to bypass it.

Tell us which TLS protocol you prefer in the comment section below.

Windows 11 Xbox App Not Downloading Games: 5 Ways to Fix

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Xbox has a great collection of games, and with the video gaming brand available on PCs, users can play their favorite titles on computers. However, many reported that the Xbox app is not downloading games in Windows 11, usually followed by an error code.

Issues with it are common, and some even had trouble installing the Xbox app. Once users managed to bypass or eliminate this issue, another appeared, which seemed to dampen their enthusiasm.

Why is the Xbox app not downloading games?

Here are a few reasons the Xbox app is not downloading games in Windows 11:

  • Misconfigured network settings: Many users found out that their network settings were misconfigured, which led to the problem.
  • Issues with the Gaming Services: The Gaming Services is critical for the effective functioning of the Xbox app, and issues with it can lead to games not downloading in Windows 11.
  • Conflicting apps: A third-party antivirus or firewall can block the attempts and be the reason you can’t download anything.

What can I do if Xbox app is not downloading games in Windows 11?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones first:

  • Go to the official Xbox Status page, and check if the servers are all working fine. In case they are down, wait for the problem to be resolved, and then try installing the game.
  • Make sure you have enough storage on the PC. If not, free up disk space on Windows 11.
  • Re-sign in to the Xbox app.
  • Update Windows 11 as well as the Xbox app.
  • Get a free VPN, configure it before you start downloading the game, and then disable it once the progress moves beyond the initial levels.
  • In case you have a third-party antivirus installed, disable it and verify whether you can now download games from the Xbox app in Windows 11. If yes, we recommend you uninstall the program and switch to an effective third-party antivirus.

If none work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Modify the network settings

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type ncpa.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.ncpa.cpl
  2. Right-click on the active network adapter, and select Properties.properties
  3. Untick the checkbox for Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6), and click on OK to save the changes.disable ipv6 to fix windows 11 xbox app not downloading games
  4. Now check whether you can download games from the Xbox app. If not, again open the network properties, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), and click on the Properties button.ipv4
  5. Select the Use the following DNS server addresses option, enter the following in the fields, and click OK to save the changes:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4change DNS server to fix windows 11 xbox app not downloading games

Reconfiguring the network settings has helped a lot of users fix things when the Xbox app is not downloading games in Windows 11. So, try disabling IPv6 and switching to Google’s DNS server.

2. Reinstall the Gaming Services

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type powershell, and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter.powershell
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Now, paste the following command and hit Enter:get-appxpackage Microsoft.GamingServices | remove-Appxpackage –allusersreinstall gaming services to fix windows 11 xbox app not downloading games
  4. Next, execute the following command:start ms-windows-store://pdp/?productid=9MWPM2CQNLHN
  5. Finally, click on the Get button to reinstall the Gaming Services.get

Gaming Services has often been found to be linked with issues leading to the Xbox app not downloading games in Windows 11, and reinstalling it usually does the trick.

3. Change sign-in settings

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, choose Accounts from the navigation pane, and then click on Sign-in options on the right.sign in options
  2. Now, disable the toggle for Use my sign-in info to automatically finish setting up after an update.disable to fix windows 11 xbox app not downloading games

4. Set C: drive as the install location

  1. Open the Xbox app, click on the profile icon near the top left, and select Settings.settings
  2. Now, head to the General tab, and under the Change where this app installs games by default dropdown menu, select the C: drive.install location
  3. Once done, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

5. Run all the Xbox services

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Services in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.services
  2. Scroll down and locate all the Xbox services. Since the services are listed alphabetically, they will all be together.
  3. Right-click on the first service from the list and select Properties.properties
  4. Choose Automatic from the Startup type dropdown menu, click on Start to run the service, and then on OK to save the changes.start to fix windows 11 xbox app not downloading games
  5. Similarly, run all the other Xbox services listed here, restart the computer, and then try downloading games.

That’s it! One of these solutions must have helped you fix issues that led to the Xbox app not downloading games in Windows 11. We also have another article where Xbox downloads may stall so these solutions may come in handy.

And if you love playing games on the PC, check how to boost the gaming performance in Windows.

If you have any queries or know of a solution not listed here, feel free to drop a comment in the section below.

5 Best Portable Car WiFi Devices to Keep you Connected

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

If you’re looking for a car WiFi device to stay connected on the go, we share the best models you can use right now.

Now that the world has gone digital, there’s an increasing demand for staying connected wherever you are, whether traveling or even relaxing at home.

For car owners, especially when stuck in traffic, in-car Wi-Fi comes in handy, taking off the hassle of having to convert credit to internet bundles before browsing. There are several ways you can get Wi-Fi in your car, including:

  • Using your smartphone

This is very popular, but your phone has to have the capabilities to become a Wi-Fi hotspot before using it in your car.

However, it may not be your best bet owing to the huge amounts of data it consumes, plus draining your battery meaning you have to keep it charged as you drive along.

  • Mobile hotspot

This is a small router, usually square or rectangular shaped, that lets you connect multiple devices at the same time.

A mobile hotspot is flexible, portable, and saves your phone’s data and battery as it uses a different data plan, but this means added costs monthly.

It is a good alternative if your car doesn’t come with a car WiFi built into it already.

  • Wireless router

This can be installed in your car, eliminating the need to keep carrying around a mobile hotspot device. It is more expensive though as you’d have to buy it, have it installed then pay for a data plan for the router.

  • Built-in Wi-Fi

In-car Wi-Fi that’s already built into your car is the best due to its signal strength, as well as how easy it is to use because you need not carry anything around.

However, its use is limited to whenever you are inside or near the car. Plus, you’d have to really be a heavy internet user if you want to pay for monthly subscriptions.

If you’re looking for an car WiFi device or mobile hotspot that you can use in your own jalopy, here are the best that will keep you connected on the go.

What is the best car WiFi device that I can buy?

Spectrum Smart-in Car WiFi – Best overall

  • Easy to use
  • Compatible with any Wi-Fi device
  • Works in North America
  • Doesn’t come with additional fees
  • No major issues
Amazon Product Check price

If you’re looking to use Wi-Fi in your car, then this device might come in handy. The device is certified to work in most North American countries.

You can use it to create a wireless network in your car and connect any Wi-Fi-compatible device to it. The device doesn’t come with any additional feels, so you can use it without restrictions.

However, you’ll need to have a SIM card and a contract with a mobile operator if you want to access the Web. Overall, it’s a great car WiFi device for your car, so be sure to consider it.

GlocalMe Mini – Can be used without SIM

  • 4G support
  • Doesn’t require SIM
  • Can support up to 10 devices
  • 3000mAh battery
  • Available plans might be expensive
Amazon Product Check price

If you need portable WiFi for car, then this hotspot might do the trick. According to the manufacturer, this device doesn’t need a SIM and you can pay as you go. However, the option for a SIM card is available as well.

This hotspot supports 4G and it can work in over 140 countries around the world. It’s important to mention that this device has a touchscreen so you can easily see battery level, signal strength, and other information.

The device can support up to 10 devices and thanks to a 3000mAh battery, it can last up to 10 hours on a single charge. If you’re planning a road trip, this will be a perfect addition to your car.

NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 – For advanced users

  • 5G support, speeds up to 2.5Gbps
  • WiFi 6 support
  • Can work with up to 32 devices
  • 2.4-inch touchscreen display
  • Expensive
  • Speed issues when used out of the US
Amazon Product Check price

Advanced users that look for the best car WiFi will surely be interested in this model that comes from Netgear.

This mobile hotspot provides speeds up to 2.5Gbps and it supports 5G signal, WiFi 6 is available as well, and it delivers speeds up to 3.6Gbps. As for the number of connections, this model can work with up to 32 devices.

This model also has an Ethernet port, so you can connect it to other network devices if needed. This is an advanced hotspot, but if you want the highest quality Wi-Fi signal in your car, this is the perfect car WiFi device for you.

GlocalMe Numen Air 5G – Offers 5G support

  • Speeds up to 2.5Gbps
  • Works in 50 different 5G countries
  • Can work with up to 16 devices
  • Touchscreen display
  • Wi-Fi name can’t be changed
  • The front button is too sensitive
Amazon Product Check price

Another great portable WiFi for a car is GlocalMe Numen Air 5G. This model offers speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, which should be more than enough for most users.

This car WiFi device can be used without a SIM card, but if you own one, you can use your own data plan. As for compatibility, this model works in 50 5G countries and supports more than 100 operators.

Thanks to the Wi-Fi 5 technology, you can share your network with up to 16 devices, and a built-in 5400mAh can also be used for charging your USB devices.

ZTE ZMAX Connect – For less demanding users

  • Can support up to 10 devices
  • Dual-band network
  • Works with all SIM cards
  • 4 LED indicators
  • No touchscreen
  • Minor Wi-Fi signal issues
Amazon Product Check price

If you want a simple-to-use car WiFi device, then ZTE ZMAX Connect might be what you need. This model accepts all SIM cards but it works best with T-Mobile and AT&T cards.

Using this model you can make 2.4 GHz or 5GHz network, and connect up to 10 devices. As for encryption, this model uses WPA and WPA2, which should provide some level of protection.

To monitor the status of your network, this model has four LEDs, and all the configuration is made via an online interface. Overall, it’s a simple but powerful car hotspot.

How can I get Wi-Fi in my car?

  • Using your smartphone hotspot is a popular solution, but you have to consider the huge amounts of data it consumes, plus draining your battery.
  • Use a dedicated tool for mobile Wi-Fi: portable Wi-Fi hotspot device.
  • In-car Wi-Fi that’s already built into your car is the best due to its signal strength, as well as how easy it is to use because you need not carry anything around.

What are the advantages of in-car Wi-Fi?

  • You get a wider range of data plans that suits everyone’s use from light users to heavy internet surfers
  • You can plug in without worrying about your batteries, or even charging
  • In-car Wi-Fi allows you to charge your phone while driving, so you need not worry about running out of juice
  • In-car Wi-Fi delivers fast connection speeds owing to the 4G compatibility
  • You can also connect multiple devices with in-car Wi-Fi
  • It’s also a good way of keeping everybody occupied especially on a long road trip or journey

The downside with in-car Wi-Fi, however, is it can be more expensive, depends on network coverage, its availability is pegged on the network provider, and there’s practically no way you can drive while browsing.

Mobile hotspot faster than Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is obviously faster than 4G LTE Mobile Data, but downloads can get stuck over Wi-Fi. Some smartphone brands include a sanity check to switch your connection from a slow Wi-Fi to a faster cellular connection.

If you also want to assess your Wi-Fi connection, check out the list with the best Wi-Fi software to do just that. Also, check out the best Wi-Fi hotspot software for Windows 10 to make an informed decision.

For any other suggestions or questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below.

[wl_navigator]

How to Change Default Folder View in Windows 11

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Well, the Windows operating system is known to be a user-friendly operating system. It allows for various customization options that can help you make your computer really your own. You can change the wallpaper, change the lock screen, change the icons, change the mouse cursor, and much more.

You can also change the default folder view in Windows OS. In this guide, we will show you exactly how you can change the default folder view in Windows 11. This will help you view all the files of a folder at a time or view the folders as large icons. Let us get right into it.

What are the different folder layouts or view in Windows 11?

When you change the layout of the folder, it helps you to manage or view the details of the folder at your convenience. There are a total of 8 different folder layouts or views to choose from.

  • Extra large icons
  • Large icons
  • Medium icons:
  • Small icons
  • List
  • Details
  • Tiles
  • Content

How can I change the default folder view in Windows 11?

1. Use the mouse scroll wheel

  1. Open File Explorer by pressing Win + E keys.
  2. Open the folder to which you wish to change the default folder view.
  3. Press the Ctrl button on your keyboard and scroll the mouse wheel up or down to cycle through the different folder layouts.
  4. Release the Ctrl button when you are happy with the folder view.

2. Use the keyboard shortcut

  1. Press Win + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Open the folder you want to change the default folder view of.
  3. Use the combination of keyboard shortcuts to change the folder view:
    • Ctrl + Shift + 1: Extra large icons
    • Ctrl + Shift + 2: Large icons
    • Ctrl + Shift + 3: Medium icons
    • Ctrl + Shift + 4: Small icons
    • Ctrl + Shift + 5: List
    • Ctrl + Shift + 6: Details
    • Ctrl + Shift + 7: Tiles
    • Ctrl + Shift + 8: Content

3. Use the File Explorer menu bar

  1. Press Win + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Open any folder.
  3. On the top toolbar, click on View.
  4. Select any of the folder layouts from the drop-down menu.

4. Use the File Explorer toolbar

  1. Press Win + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Open any folder.
  3. Click on the Details (left) or Large icons (right) button on the bottom toolbar to switch the folder layout.

5. Use the context menu

  1. Press Win + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Open any folder.
  3. Right-click on an empty space inside the folder.
  4. Click on View and select any of the different layouts from the context menu.

How to set a default Folder View for all folders in Windows 11?

  1. Open the file explorer by pressing the Win + E keys.
  2. Open any folder.
  3. On the top toolbar, click on View.
  4. Select any of the folder layouts from the drop-down menu.
  5. Click on the 3-dot icon.
  6. Select Options.
  7. Switch to the View tab.
  8. Click on the Apply to Folders button.
  9. In the prompt that appears, select Yes.

These are the steps that you need to perform if you wish to apply the selected folder view or layout across the entire file explorer. In this way, you do not need to choose the layout every time you enter a new folder.

That is it from us in this guide. You can also check out our guide that will help you to show more options in file explorer in Windows 11.

We have a guide that lists some of the best tips and tricks to customize the Windows 11 file explorer. If you are looking for the best settings for Windows 11 folder, then you should check out our dedicated guide that will help you with the query.

Also, several users have been facing an issue where the folder’s view changes automatically without user input. If you are experiencing the same issue and are looking for solutions, then do not worry, as we have a dedicated guide that will help you resolve the problem.

For some users, the option to create a new folder is also missing on their Windows 10 PCs. You can refer to our guide and also apply the solutions for Windows 11 PCs as well.

Read our guide on how you force your Windows 11 PC to rename a folder. This has been troubling users for quite some time, and you can easily fix it using the mentioned solutions.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above methods you used to change the default folder view in your Windows 11 laptop or PC.

Windows 10 Repair Tool: 5 Best Software to Use

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Let us introduce you to the best Windows 10 repair software options available.

Windows 10 is the latest operating system from Microsoft which has been optimized for both desktops and mobile devices. It does the job mighty well, switching from either mode seamlessly and with the least fuss.

However, Windows 10 isn’t without its share of shortcomings and issues. Some can be minor ones that you might well choose to ignore though some turn out to be crippling and hinder normal functioning adversely.

Either way, going for a complete re-install of the OS can solve all issues though that isn’t the simplest thing to do every time.

Fortunately, there are easier options available in the form of software tools that you can use to get rid of most Windows 10 issues. Not only are they immensely effective but most Windows 10 repair tools are free.

Is there a Windows 10 repair tool?

Yes, Windows 10 has a suite of troubleshooters for the most common problems you might encounter. These troubleshooters are pretty easy to use, but in most cases (as our readers and many other users confirm), they don’t necessarily fix the issues as intended.

If you have a specific issue to solve, you can try one of these all-in-one fixers:

  • Fortect – Greatest system repair solution
  • Outbyte Driver Updater – Best driver updater software
  • O&O ShutUp10 – Best for protecting online privacy
  • Windows Repair Tool – Wide variety of advanced user settings
  • Missed Features Installer – Safely install any software without errors

Pre-requisites for fixing Windows 10

Before you set about downloading the software, ensure you are running the latest version of Windows 10. That is because Microsoft routinely releases new updates to fix the most common issues.

Plus, the updates come with the latest version of antivirus software and anti-malware programs. Keeping your PC updated can be another means of ensuring you have dealt with known issues with Windows 10.

What is the best free Windows 10 repair tool?

Depending on the problem you’re facing, there are multiple options. Some are free, some have free trials and some have incredibly advanced features that you can only access with a paid license. Here’s a list of the most used on the market:

However, there are also some who can tackle more than one issue. So, here are some programs you can consider installing on your device.

What is the best Windows 10 repair software?

Fortect – Greatest system repair solution

The new kid in town is called Fortect, a complete system repair solution that can fix any existing issue on your PC.

You can start using this software with a system-wide scan that will diagnose your device and find risky issues that will compromise your PC over time.

The tool has multiple modules that can detect specific system issues such as registry file malfunctions, detect junk files and the storage you can save, detect PUAs and malware threats, and many more.

As a result of the scanning process, you can simply repair all the PC issues by pressing one click. Then, your device will be much more optimized and completely error-free.

In addition, you can use the automatic repair feature that will clean broken registry files, fix damaged system files and also improve your online privacy.

Fortect

Waste no more time on unfit tools and repair your PC with this complete software.
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Outbyte Driver Updater – Best driver updater software

Outbyte Driver Updater-Banner

The program will help you find and install all the latest drivers to ensure your PC works optimally at all times.

Once you let Outbyte Driver Updater scan your PC, it will find drivers that need to be updated, provide you with links to the latest drivers, and download and install those automatically as well.

Given that outdated drivers can lead to a host of issues with your Windows 10 installation, having updated drivers will help you get rid of most of those at least, if not all.

Outbyte Driver Updater

It will find any missing or old drivers and update them within only a couple of seconds with ease.
Free Trial Visit Website

O&O ShutUp10 – Best for protecting online privacy

The O&O ShutUp10 program is for those who take their online privacy rather seriously.

Though Microsoft has a slightly better record of snooping on its customer vis-a-vis the other technology majors like Facebook or Google, it still is known to gather user data.

That apart there also are issues of telemetry and tracking that have some users worried. The program offers several settings with a short description of what those stand for.

O&O ShutUp10

Get control over your privacy and decide when Windows can access it or not.
Free Download Visit Website

Windows Repair Tool – Wide variety of advanced user settings

The program created by Tweaking.com will help address almost the entire gamut of Windows 10 issues.

From Windows Firewall and Winsock and DNS cache fixes to Registry permission and such, Windows Repair will help address all of those and with surprising accuracy.

In case the software proves ineffective, Windows Repair can help you fix the issues manually though that applies to advanced users only. For this, there is the specific Repairs tab.

There is a cache though, developers of Windows Repair strongly recommend the Windows Repair program only in Safe Mode for best results.

Get Tweaking Windows Repair

Repair most Windows issues automatically or use the power settings to do it manually.
Free Download Visit Website

Missed Features Installer – Safely install any software without errors

There are chances you are having issues with your Windows 10 device owing to some features that failed to install properly.

This is particularly true for those who upgraded from Windows 7 or Windows 8/8.1. Though, even a fresh installation often leads to features failing to install.

It is here that the Missed Features Installer can come in handy. So if you are craving the Classic Start Menu or 3D Pinball, the Missed Features Installer can help set things right for you.

⇒ Get Missed Features Installer

What are the Windows 10 built-in repair tools?

Windows 10 also comes with several built-in tools. These offer convenient options to work around many of the common issues of Windows 10. Here is a brief description of those and is worth checking out.

1. Windows 10 troubleshooter

This can be invoked if you navigate to Settings, then click on Update & Security. Here, from the left pane, you can see the Troubleshoot option.

The Troubleshooter will guide you with on-screen instructions. It will help you with a variety of problems, including those related to the keyboard, internet, BSOD errors, Windows Store app, printer, and so on.

2. Windows Software Repair Tool from Microsoft

This is a tool that Microsoft designed to help mitigate software issues on Surface devices. Though, it can be just as effective for Windows 10 installation on any other device as well.

What the Software Repair tool essentially does is restore Windows 10 to its default settings. Besides, also repairs apps and updates the same as well.

3. System Restore

This can be extremely effective if some recent changes crippled your system. Here is an excellent guide on how to use System Restore and create a restore point.

4. Reset this PC

This is another handy tool that resets your PC to the default Windows 10 settings. The feature can be effective when faced with nagging issues. You have two options here, ‘Keep my files’ and ‘Removes everything’.

Decide as per your need and make sure you back up all your files if you opt for the second choice as it deletes your entire hard disk and installs Windows 10 afresh.

5. System Files Repair Tool

The tool is of help when faced with files missing or corrupted errors. The built-in System Files Repair command-line tool is handy in such situations.

If you are looking for a Windows PC troubleshooter tool check this awesome guide and learn more on how to automize the process.

What software do computer technicians use?

The tools recommended above are the best on the market and computer technicians use them to debug and repair PCs.

So, you can pick any of the Windows 10 repair tool download above because they are verified and working for your PC.

PC repair and optimization software will also include tools for assessing systems, file recovery, driver updates, removing duplicate files, and much more.

All you need to do is open Command Prompt as admin followed by typing Sfc /scannow. Press Enter, and you will be provided with the scan progress report along with other relevant info.

So, there you have it, quite a comprehensive guide to help restore things. All of the above solutions are a great help when errors appear and you need to troubleshoot them, but if you still have issues check out this detailed guide for more fixes.

If you encounter any issue that is not addressed by the above solutions, please let us know.

Circular Kernel Context Logger 0xc0000035: 6 Easy Fixes

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

The session circular kernel context logger failed to start with the following error: 0xc0000035 is a ghost that has haunted the last three major releases of Windows. It’s an error that Windows 10 essentially inherited from Windows 7.

While it occurs less frequently on Windows 10, it still shows up to cause a Blue Screen of Death from time to time. But why and how can you fix it? In this guide, we’ll answer these questions and more.

Why has Circular Kernel Context Logger failed to start?

Below are some of the factors that can cause the session “Circular Kernel Context Logger” failed to start with the following error: 0xc0000035 issue on your PC:

  • Disabled service: Some users have reported that this issue occurs because the Superfetch service is disabled. The solution to this is to enable the service and restart your PC.
  • Outdated drivers: Sometimes, this problem can be caused by faulty or outdated network drivers. Updating your drivers to the latest version should restore normalcy.
  • Issues with network settings: In some cases, this error message shows up because IPv6 is enabled. Many users have been able to fix it simply by disabling the feature.

How can I fix Circular Kernel Context Logger 0xc0000035?

1. Reboot your computer completely

  1. Click on the Start Menu.
  2. Click on the Power button.
  3. Now, select the Restart option.

Sometimes, the easiest fix is usually the most effective. A simple restart might do the trick. For example, if you are dealing with the Circular Kernel Context Logger error.

The issue might be due to glitches that will be cleared upon restarting your PC.

2. Delete the MSSEOOBE.etl file

  1. Press the Windows key + E and Navigate to the ProgramData folder in your Local (C:) drive.
    program data circular kernel context logger
  2. Click on Microsoft.
    microsoft
  3. Select Microsoft Security Essentials.
  4. Now, click on Support.
  5. Right-click the MSSEOOBE.etl file and select the Delete option.
  6. Finally, restart your PC.

The MSSEOOBE.etl file is part of the Microsoft Security Essentials. However, it can cause the Circular Kernel Context Logger error.

Hence, you need to delete the folder to fix the issue. Note that this solution only works for users running Microsoft Security Essentials.

3. Enable the Superfetch/SysMain service

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type services.msc, and click the OK button.
    services circular kernel context logger
  2. Now, double-click the Superfetch or SysMain service to open its properties.
    sysmain
  3. Set the Startup type to Automatic and click the Start button if the service is not running.
  4. Next, click Apply, followed by OK.
    automatic circular kernel context logger
  5. Finally, restart your PC.

In some cases, the Circular Kernel Context Logger error can show up if the Superfetch service is disabled. So don’t be alarmed if you can’t find the Superfetch service on your PC.

This is because In later versions of Windows 10, the Superfetch service is named SysMain. So they virtually do the same thing.

 4. Adjust the maximum file size of the startup event trace sessions

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type perfmon, and click OK.
    perfmon
  2. Expand Data Collector Sets from the left tree.
  3. Click on Startup Event Trace Sessions.
    startup trace circular kernel context logger
  4. In the main panel, scroll down till you find the ReadyBoot entry, and then double-click on it.
    readyboot
  5. Click on the Stop Condition tab.
  6. Set maximum size to 40MB (or more).
  7. Finally, click OK and close the Performance Monitor.
    stop condition

The session circular kernel context logger failed to start with the following error: 0xc0000035 message may appear because the maximum file size of the Startup Event Trace Sessions isn’t enough. You can use this solution to fix it. 

5. Disable IPv6

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type ncpa.cpl, and click the OK button.
    ncpa Circular Kernel Context Logger
  2. Right-click on the first connection you see and click on Properties.
    properties Circular Kernel Context Logger
  3. Now, uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPV6).
  4. Click OK.
    ipv6
  5. Finally, repeat steps 2 to 3 for the other network adapter on the list.

Another effective solution to this Circular Kernel Context Logger error is to disable IPV6. This has solved the problem for many users. So, it would be best if you tried it.

6. Update your network drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
    device manager
  2. Double-click the Network adapters option to expand it, and right-click on your primary LAN device.
  3. Now, select Update driver from the context menu.
    update driver
  4. Click on Search automatically for drivers.
    search auto
  5. Finally, install any available updates and restart your PC.

You should update your driver if the fixes above do not solve the Circular Kernel Context Logger error. One of the best ways to do this is to use the Windows update, as shown above.

Alternatively, you can update your drivers automatically with the help of dedicated software. This way, you will save time and be sure you get the correct driver version.

In this regard, we recommend Outbyte Driver Updater because it is easy to use and very light. To get started, install the program, select the driver you want it to update, and let it find the best versions available.

You can also scan all your drivers and find if you need to update or repair any. The tool will give you a simple report about the state of each driver. You have to let it start updating/repairing.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

If none of the solutions in this guide worked for you, then your only other option is to reinstall or upgrade Windows if you’re using an older version.

However, if this error persists but doesn’t impact the way your system runs, then it’s okay to ignore it.

Similarly, if you face other issues like 0xC0000188 Error on Windows, check our detailed guide to fix it.

So which solution worked for you? Would you like to point out a blind spot on our side? Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment down below. As always, thank you for reading.

6 Best PC Repair Tool to Use in 2026 [Reviewed]

Posted on by Matthew Adams

A PC repair tool is known to fix issues on desktops or laptops. These utilities can come in different shapes and sizes.

However, only the very best Windows repair tools will enable you to solve a multitude of system errors to ensure the OS runs as smoothly as possible.

Some of them are system optimizers, others are more like troubleshooters, while some provide quick fixes for a variety of issues.

With so many choices at your disposal, it’s only natural to get easily confused. We’ve consistently analyzed each and every one of the tools in the lIst below, but here’s a quick look at some of the best:

  • Fortect – Very good at repairing BSOD
  • Fortect PC Cleaner – Powerful and very easy to use
  • Advanced SystemCare – Fast & straightforward
  • System Mechanic Ultimate Defense – All-in-one tool
  • Fix-It Utilities Pro – Simple interface and basic features

Is there a Windows 10 repair tool?

Yes, Windows does have a built-in repair tool, but it doesn’t usually do much. The only area where Windows Repair has proven useful to us is when experiencing networking and program compatibility issues.

Countless users claim that Automatic Repair couldn’t repair their Windows 10 PC. When it comes to system files, corrupted registries, and optimizations, the built-in tool doesn’t even recognize the problems.

We consider it to be extremely important that you use a tool that can resolve all of these issues and guarantee a streamlined experience on your computer.

What can repair software do?

Repair software, will ensure that all the elements that could create problems with your system will be optimized, repaired, and even replaced if needed.

A good repair software offers quick and easy access to all of these features, proves its versatility by first identifying the problem, and then repairs it without much input from the user. There are even great PC repair tools for Windows 7 that could revive your old computer in no time.

Owning an application that automates troubleshooting processes is important, as this eliminates the need to be proficient in troubleshooting methods and the possibility of a mistake as well.

What is the best PC repair software for Windows?

Fortect – Very good at repairing BSOD

Fortect is a PC repair product that you can count on when it comes to keeping your device in an optimized state as it has multiple advanced features.

It runs a thorough scan of your computer’s system, which takes up to five minutes, to determine its condition and find which elements need to be enhanced so that your PC can run steadily.

The preparatory scan comprises a search for any system vulnerabilities, damaged and missing files, junk, or unwanted apps that may slow down your PC.

When the scanning process is finished, this software will repair and replace all the broken and missing files, including DLLs and registry keys to automatically recharge your operating system.

Fortect is able to handle even issues like the blue screen of death and it also helps in the OS recovery after virus damage or any other issue that may affect performance.

Furthermore, it helps you remove all the junk files by cleaning up your folders, disk, and hard drive to reach a PC optimization.

Fortect has three PC repair plans from which you can choose, depending on how many devices you need to protect.

Other key features of Fortect you might be interested in:

  • Blue screen of death prevention
  • Repairs Windows damage
  • Operating system restoration
  • Easy to use
  • Browser Cleanup
  • Thorough diagnostic report
Fortect

Fortect

A steady repair program that will help you easily reach an optimized state of your computer.
Free Trial Download now

Fortect PC Cleaner – Powerful and very easy to use

PC Cleaner can repair your computer with just a few simple scand of different elements. You are able to target specific areas, such as the memory, registry, corrupted, or residual files.

This tool can be set to automatically clean your PC on a schedule with specific preset scans of the elements you want.

Residual files from different program installations can easily cause issues to your computer, but luckily they can be fixed or repaired with PC Cleaner.

This software can also scan and repair your computer registry, which often is the cause of the most problematic computer problems, such are Windows errors and BSODs.

What makes PC Cleaner one of the best tools for repairing your computer is its ease of use. The software comes with a very intuitive interface and low resource consumption.

A full registry scan and repair will only take you a few minutes, which is way less than most other cleaning software you will find.

Main features of PC Cleaner:

  • Memory cleaner and boost
  • Residual files remover
  • Registry cleaner
  • Security features optimizer

Fortect PC Cleaner

Repair your computer with just a few clicks with this powerful software.
Free Trial Visit Website

Advanced SystemCare – Fast & straightforward

Advanced SystemCare is an all-in-one toolkit that can be used to fix most Windows issues with. This software is primarily designed to clean, optimize, and protect your privacy.

It promotes an intuitive 1-click approach, so you don’t have to waste your precious time when you want to get rid of junk files, invalid shortcuts, and spyware threats.

In addition to the basics, Advanced SystemCare offers some great extra niceties for safer browsing and online security day and night.

To be more precise, it protects your system from viruses and malware with its own program. Even more, Advanced SystemCare checks that your Windows Firewall is protecting the computer from outside threats and offers extra tools for tougher security.

Also, keep in mind that this tool analyzes the performance of your hard drives, if they’re starting to fail, and corrects them if possible.

It even optimizes hard drives in order to enjoy faster access to regularly used files and programs.

As for the Internet Boost feature, rest assured that it stabilizes your network and successfully accelerates Internet speed by choosing the best channel for your area.

Some Advanced SystemCare key features include:

  • Privacy shield for improved privacy protection
  • Anti-tracking for online browsing
  • Auto RAM clean for a smoother PC experience
  • It accelerates Internet speed
  • Easily solves system weakness and eliminates the probability of security loopholes
  • Sweeps privacy traces that you may not even be aware of

Iolo System Mechanic Ultimate Defense – All-in-one tool

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense is a complete repair kit that packs numerous repair and optimization tools. This is one of the most highly rated system optimizers for Windows 10.

One of the best things about the software is its all-in-one PC repair tool that can fix Windows issues with just a few clicks.

The user interface presents you with a clear and obvious set of choices that not only allow you quick access but also provide a very useful overview of the system.

Options like LiveBoost maximize the output of your RAM, CPU, and HDD, thus making your system run smoothly, and at full capacity.

To initiate an all-out scan of your system, all you need to do is to click the Scan button, and the software will cover all the important elements.

Alternatively, you can select individual repair tools to fix more specific things. For example, System Mechanic includes a Registry Tuner, Shortcut Repair, System Troubleshooter, and Drive Medic tools to repair registries, shortcuts, etc.

It also comes with an Internet Repair Tool to fix Internet connections that give you a hard time.

In addition, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense has its own anti-virus utility that can purge viruses. So, it has pretty much everything you’ll need from a PC repair tool for Windows 10 and the latest OS.

Here are some other great features that are waiting to be discovered:

  • On-Demand Boost lets you manually tweak power settings 
  • Securely deletes files
  • Esily removes system-hogging bloatware
  • Boosts performance in real time for streaming and gaming
  • Increases security for open router ports and connected home devices
  • Internet booster is part of the package as well
Iolo System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

Iolo System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

Repair, optimize, and improve the security of your computer with this powerful software.
Check Price Visit Website

Tweaking Windows Repair – Versatile features

Tweaking Windows Repair is another incredibly versatile and powerful tool that can help you repair a wide variety of issues on your Windows PC.

Don’t be fooled by the old-school design of their website, as it uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure that no problems go unsolved.

To make it even better, the software takes you through a step-by-step process that ensures that all elements of your system’s stability are inspected thoroughly, and all problems are resolved. All you have to do is initiate the process, and then simply follow the on-screen instructions.

The software is extremely intuitive to use, meaning that you can have access to professional-level tools without the need to get lost in menus and sub-menus.

Thanks to the way it was designed, Tweaking Windows Repair gives you access to a hub of information. This contains everything you need to know about the state of your system, and also provides quick access to any of the elements.

It offers problem-solving for registry errors, and file permissions, as well as resolving a wide plethora of issues with Windows Update, Internet Explorer, and Windows Firewall.

Added to this, using this software allows you to safely restore your OS’s original settings, thus avoiding any changes made by malware and other third-party software installations.

Here are some other useful features that are worth mentioning:

  • Streamlined, updated interface
  • Easy access to Windows service tools
  • Cleans up Windows Firewall entries
  • Registry files can be both backed up and restored
  • Identifies malware even when the files are hidden
  • Solves Internet connection issues

Fix-It Utilities Pro – Simple interface and basic features

Fix-It Utilities Pro is another PC repair toolkit packed with system optimization options and tools. The utility gives you an in-depth repair solution for software issues.

The latest version 15 comes with an intuitive online dashboard that enables you to manage devices via the web.

Fix-It is compatible with Windows platforms from XP to 10 and it includes a FixUp Wizard to help you diagnose and repair system issues and test hardware.

It also has a lot of handy extra tools for fixing software issues. For instance, you can fix registry errors with the Registry Fixer which thoroughly scans the registry. The software‘s Broken Shortcut Fixer fixes broken registry shortcuts.

With Disk Fixer you can solve hard drive errors. You can also set up a bootable rescue CD with Fix-it Utilities that can help restore Windows when you can’t log in to the OS.

Moreover, Fix-It provides a full suite of privacy-oriented features in order to remove all traces of your online and offline activities.

It basically scans your computer for documents containing credit card numbers and sensitive data and cleans chat histories, Internet searches, cookies, and more.

Other great features that this tool brings to the table:

  • Targets large files for quick cleaning
  • Cleans logs, caches, Windows Registry, memory dumps, and not only
  • Optimizes your PC’s privacy settings
  • Detects hard drive problems
  • Ensures faster load times
  • Solves Windows security vulnerabilities

⇒ Get Fix-It Utilities Pro

Are PC repair tool tools safe?

Not all PC repair toolkits are safe, as there are various fake software tools online that only act as a gateway for malware to infect your system.

To avoid any unexpected issues, make sure to download your .exe installation files from trusted sources.

That being said, our guide only contains download links that were verified and proven to be completely safe.

All software solutions we discussed in this guide also have good companies with SSL certificates. So, if you’re downloading the software from our site, there is absolutely nothing to worry about when it comes to your security.

What are the differences between paid and free software?

Besides the obvious cost implication, paid software is usually better at performing the tasks it should, and this applies to repair applications as well.

The reasons for this are very simple, being that if the software requires a license, it means that people are working tirelessly in the development department providing you with state-of-the-art features and constant updates.

When it comes to free software, that doesn’t happen, so the risks involved surpass the price accessibility.

In the end, you will be glad you did. However, if you only have in mind a Fortect-free alternative, you’ll surely find it from our top picks above.

What is the best free PC repair program?

While we do recommend using programs with paid licenses because they have a lot more features and improved security. Fortect and System Mechanic have free trials that can be very useful.

For those of you looking for different repair software, mentioned below are the links to our guides with each listing out the best available options:

  • Dead pixel repair software: these will resolve problems causing deal pixels on the screen
  • HDD repair software Windows 10: effective tools to fix issues with the HDD (Hard Disk Drive); you can also look for SSD repair software, if that’s the one you are using
  • Audio repair software: these will eliminate any issues with the audio input and output which makes it a must have for users
  • Power supply repair software: for those facing issues with the power supply and unable to turn on the system or the battery drains too quick, these tools could help
  • RAM repair software: these tools better optimize the available RAM and boost the system performance

GPU repair software and CPU repair software will also come in handy if you are facing issues with system performance. In case you notice overheating, it’s likely that the fan is not working and a CPU fan repair software could help.

If the computer doesn’t turn on most of the time, it indicates a problem with the motherboard itself and motherboard repair software can help eliminate the issue.

The ones listed above cater to problems primarily pertaining to hardware. In case you are encountering issues pertaining to software, here’s the list of our guides listing the best available tools:

In case you are facing issues executing commands, search for the best Windows 10 repair tool for Command Prompt. For problems with the installation, you will also find a bunch of ISO repair tools on the web.

You can even find Windows 10 repair tools for USB to fix problems with the USB flash drive and recover data.

The above two collections of guides list out enough tools that will solve the majority of problems in Windows 10. But there are some specific tools that deal with corrupt files, and we have a dedicated guide for each type:

For those of you wondering how to repair malware-infected files, there are a bunch of options available on the web. Though your antivirus should also effectively do the job.

These are five of the best PC repair toolkits that allow you to resolve any sort of issue your system might encounter, and also prevents them from happening again.

We realize that not all software fits all types of needs, so we made sure to include enough details for each of the options we presented. To make a truly informed decision, also take a look at this list including optimizer software for Windows 10.

In case you frequently run into problems with the OS, check out the best tools to repair Windows 10 in no time. Even more, if you’re looking for software solutions to fix a slow computer, you’ve come to the right place.

In case of having any other suggestions or questions, do not hesitate to leave them in the comments section below.

Second GPU Not Detected? Here’s How to Fix It

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Some gamers have complained over the Microsoft forum that they cannot play games on their PCs because their second GPU is undetected.

This problem can be frustrating but is not the most difficult to fix. This guide will show you how to fix this issue and help you get back to playing your favorite games.

What can I do if my 2nd GPU is not detected?

Before proceeding to the solutions in this section in a bid to fix the second GPU not working issue, below are some prerequisite troubleshooting steps to try:

  • Reseat the graphics cards
  • Swap the GPUs

If these do not work, you can now explore the ensuing fixes:

1. Check if drivers are up to date

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Device Manager option.
    device manager second gpu not detected
  2. Double-click the Display adapters option to expand it, and right-click your PCI-Express graphics card.
  3. Next, select the Update driver option.
    update driver
  4. Finally, choose Search automatically for drivers and install any available updates.
    search auto

If the second GPU is not detected, you must first try to update your drivers to the latest version. This is because an outdated driver can cause issues with your graphics card.

If you’re looking for an even quicker solution to update your computer drivers, use Fortect Driver Updater. This software takes all the guesswork out of updating your drivers since it always provides you with the latest versions.

More so, if you update your drivers, but some of them are corrupt, this tool will fix them in no time. Lastly, if you have devices but don’t have the drivers installed, this tool will find them just as quickly.

This process will update your GPU driver software if it isn’t up to date. However, if your drivers are up to date and you’re still facing the same issue, try some of the following solutions.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

2. Disable onboard video Device

  1. Right-click on the Start icon and select Device Manager.
    device manager second gpu not detected
  2. Expand the Display adapters option and right-click your onboard graphics card.
  3. Now, select the Disable device option.
    disable device second gpu not detected
  4. Finally, choose the Yes option when prompted.
    yes

You put another graphics card on your PC because it is better than the onboard GPU. So, if the Second (2nd) GPU is not detected in the Device Manager, you should disable the onboard one and restart your PC.

3. Disable onboard GPU in BIOS

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. Press the F2 or the Del key during computer startup to enter the BIOS menu, depending on your PC manufacturer.
  3. Now, select the Advanced tab using the left/right arrow keys.
  4. Select the Video Configuration option using the Up/Down arrow keys.
  5. Next, go to First Display Device or Primary Graphics Adapter, depending on the motherboard model.
    primary
  6. Now, select the PCI-Express Graphics option and press Enter.
  7. Finally, press F10 to save the new settings.

Maybe your PCI-Express GPU is not even active. This can be why the second GPU is not detected on your PC.

You will have to do some work in the BIOS to determine that and turn it on.

Why is my second GPU not detected?

Below are some of the factors that can prevent your second GPU from being detected:

  • Outdated driver – If your GPU driver is outdated, your second graphics card might not be detected. The solution to this is to update your driver to the latest version.
  • Wrong GPU placement – Sometimes, this issue can be because you didn’t place your graphics card. Hence, if the second GPU is not used, you should reseat the failing graphics card.

If the GPU is not showing up in Task Manager, this guide will help you but now, let’s see what to do when the second GPU is not detected.

If you’re dealing with GPU detection issues, you might find it helpful to explore solutions for when your NVIDIA graphics card isn’t detected in Windows 11, when the GPU fan is spinning but it’s not recognized, or if your AMD graphics card doesn’t appear in Device Manager on Windows 10.

With this, we can conclude this guide. We believe you now have all the information needed to fix the second GPU not detected issue.

If your Nvidia graphics card is not detected on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to fix it effortlessly.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you fix this issue in the comments below.

Microsoft gets over 1 million sign ups for AI powered Bing preview in 48 hours

Posted on by Kip Kniskern

Microsoft announced its new AI powered Bing on Tuesday, opened up a waitlist, and promised that they would bring “the new Bing” to “millions in the coming weeks.” They’re off to a good start so far as Yusuf Mehdi, a corporate Vice President at Microsoft and the presenter at the invite only presentation, announced on Twitter that over 1 million people have signed up for the preview in only 48 hours:

If you missed out, you can still sign up at bing.com/new.

The new Bing offers not only a traditional search offering, but an AI infused “Bing Chat,” that provides 1,000 characters of space to build complex queries, which Bing will then attempt to answer using a special search optimized version of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, thought to be based on the as yet unreleased ChatGPT4. By the way if you’re excited, like we were that seeing the new Bing home page meant you were in the preview, not so fast. It looks like Microsoft has turned on the new home page, but is still getting ready to add people from the waitlist, but it shouldn’t be long now.

What are your first impressions of the idea of a new AI powered Bing? Check out our roundtable for our thoughts, and let us know what you think in the comments.

 

 

Microsoft Edge Keeps Crashing? Try These Fixes

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

If Microsoft Edge keeps crashing on Windows 10 or 11, the issue might be linked to corrupted cache, broken extensions, or damaged system files. Use the steps below to troubleshoot and get the browser working again.

Step-by-Step Fixes for Microsoft Edge Crashes

Table of contents

1. Clear the Edge Cache and Cookies

A corrupted cache can cause tab crashes or load failures.

Here’s how to clear it:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge
  2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
  3. Under Time range, select All time
  4. Check Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files
  5. Click Clear now

If you’re unsure what to delete, follow this Edge cache clearing guide for specifics.

2. Repair Microsoft Edge via Windows Settings

Edge has a built-in repair option that fixes missing or broken files.

To repair Edge:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps
  3. Search for Microsoft Edge, click the three-dot menu, then Modify
  4. Select Repair and wait for Windows to reinstall the browser

For similar repair steps, see how to repair Edge browser files without losing data.

3. Run the System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files often lead to application crashes, including Edge.

To run SFC:

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator
  2. Type: sfc /scannow
  3. Press Enter and wait for the scan to finish

Need more help? Follow this method to fix corrupted system files in Windows.

4. Check for Windows Updates

Edge updates are tied to Windows updates. An outdated system can cause crashes.

To update Windows:

  1. Press Windows + I
  2. Go to Windows Update
  3. Click Check for updatesWindows Update Check for updates
  4. Install any pending updates and restart your PC

If the crash started after an update, you may be facing a Windows 10 Edge crash bug.

5. Disable All Edge Extensions

Extensions can conflict with Edge or each other, triggering crashes.

To disable them:

  1. Open Edge
  2. Click the three-dot menu > Extensions
  3. Disable all extensions
  4. Restart the browser

If Edge runs normally now, re-enable them one by one to find the culprit.

6. Create a New Edge Profile

A corrupted user profile can cause startup crashes or syncing issues.

To create a new one:

  1. Open Edge
  2. Click the Profile icon in the top-right
  3. Select Add profile
  4. Click Add again, then test if the crash still occurs
add edge profile

7. Reset or Remove the Previous Session

If the crash happens when reopening tabs, the session file might be broken.

To prevent this:

  1. Open Edge
  2. Go to Settings > Start, home, and new tabs
  3. Change When Edge starts to Open a new tab
  4. Restart Edge

If that helps, check this method to fix session restore issues.

8. Reinstall Microsoft Edge

If none of the above worked, reinstalling may help.

To reinstall Edge:

  1. Download the latest version from Microsoft’s official website
  2. Uninstall Edge using PowerShell or the Settings app
  3. Install the fresh version and check if the problem persists

For cases where Edge won’t even open, use this startup crash solution.

FAQ

Why does Microsoft Edge keep crashing on Windows 11/10?

The crashes are usually caused by outdated system files, extensions, or broken cache. Some builds of Windows 10 also show frequent Edge crash errors.

What causes Edge to crash after a few seconds?

It may be a bad extension or a corrupted session. If Edge also freezes before crashing, review these Edge freezing issues.

What are the most common Edge browser issues?

Session file problems, file restore errors, and disappearing closed tabs are all common complaints.

Can a corrupted cache crash Edge?

Yes. A bad cache can stop pages from loading and crash tabs. Clearing it also helps restore recently closed browser tabs.

Conclusion
Microsoft Edge crashes are often easy to fix if you follow the right steps. Clear your cache, repair the app, and check your extensions first. If you’re running Windows 11, review known Edge problems to stay ahead of recurring issues.

How to Change Boot Logo on Windows 10

Posted on by Kazim Ali Alvi

Windows is often said to be a highly customizable OS, but most users remain unaware of the wide range of changes they can make. For instance, many wonder if they can change the boot logo in Windows 10.

By default, every time you boot the OS, a Windows logo appears on the screen with a few dots spinning in a circle which denotes the boot progress. Let’s find out all there’s to now.

Yes, you can easily change the Windows startup or boot logo without making any significant modifications to the BIOS or the OS. And the best part, you can do it with a simple open-source tool.

While there are a few other ways, the complex ones run the risk of bricking the PC if you are not careful during the process. So, let’s stick to the simpler option to change the boot logo in Windows 10.

How do I change the boot logo in Windows 10?

Before we start the actual process, here are a few quick checks and changes to ensure that things work:

  • Make sure your PC employs UEFI as the firmware interface. Though most newer generation PCs do, a quick way to verify this is to check System Information and look at the BIOS Mode.
  • Disable Secure Boot on the PC through the BIOS. The method here differs for every OEM, so you must check the official website for the exact steps.

Once done with these two, let’s start the actual process.

Note icon NOTE
Given that changing the boot logo in Windows 10 is a slightly complex process, we have divided the steps into three sections for higher clarity and enhanced ease. The last section details how you can revert to the default settings.

1. Get the image ready

  1. Right-click on the image you want to set as the boot logo, hover over Open with, and choose Paint from the list.open to change boot logo windows 10
  2. Under the Image section, select Resize.ruler
  3. Now, choose Pixels as the unit, enter 250 under both Horizontal and Vertical, and then click OK. Alternatively, you could use a third-party tool or website to resize the image.change dimension
  4. Once done, click on the File menu, hover the cursor over Save as, and select BMP picture.bmp to change change boot logo windows 10
  5. Navigate to the desired folder, enter splash as the file name, under Save as type, choose 24-bit Bitmap, and click on Save.save

After the file is ready, let’s head to the next step, which is to get HackBGRT running to change the boot logo. It’s an open-source tool and easy to use.

2. Get the tool ready

  1. Go to HackBGRT’s GitHub page and download the ZIP file.hackbgrt
  2. Head to the Downloads folder, right-click on the HackBGRT.zip file, and select Extract All.extract all
  3. Choose the desired path for extracted files, and click on Extract.extract
  4. Once done, head to the extracted files, and run setup.exe.setup.exe
  5. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  1. The tool will now open in a Command Prompt window, press I to proceed with the installation.press I
  2. A notepad window will launch, listing the various details. Simply close it.
  3. In the Paint window that opens next, click on the File menu, and choose Open.open to change boot logo windows 10
  4. Now, open the partition created by the tool, select the EFI folder, and then the HackBGRT folder. In our case, the path was:A:\EFI\HackBGRT
  5. You will now find a splash.bmp image here. Copy the one you created earlier, head back to this window, and press Ctrl + V to paste it.
  6. Click on Replace the file in the destination option in the prompt that appears.replace to change boot logo windows 10
  7. Once done, click on Open, and then close the Paint window.open
  8. The Command Prompt will read HackBGRT is now installed. Press any key to quit. Close it.close HackBGRT

That’s it! You have successfully changed the boot logo in Windows 10. Every time you restart the computer, the new logo will appear instead of the old Windows icon.

4. Revert to default settings

Reverting to the default settings is easier than ever using HackBGRT. Open the tool and press either D to restore the default settings or R to remove the HackBGRT files completely.

Now, when you boot Windows, it will display the default logo instead of the customized one.

That’s it! This was the easiest method to change to boot logo in Windows 10 using a simple and user-friendly open-source tool. Make sure to check the conditions (listed earlier) beforehand and make the relevant changes to avoid any issues later.

Also, if you are planning on making more changes, check the best desktop customization software for Windows 10. For Windows 11 users, we have a separate guide on how to change the boot logo on Windows 11, so don’t miss it.

If you have any queries or want to share your experience of changing the boot logo, drop a comment below.

6 Best CPU Temperature Monitoring Software [2026 List]

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Monitoring our resources is essential for having a healthy PC. Knowing the peaks of your computer’s abilities can sometimes be a lifesaver and will prevent it from overloading and overheating. So, you may need a PC vitals monitor.

For example, if we know our CPU’s current temperature, we can prevent it from overheating. Therefore, we can be sure that our computer is functioning normally, even during the hottest days.

For this purpose, we know a couple of valuable programs that will provide you with any info about your computer’s behavior.

In this article, specifically, we’re going to talk about CPU temperature measures.

Table of contents

How to choose an excellent tool to monitor your CPU temperature?

We will help you decide which one is the best for you by considering elements like:

  • Ability to set your CPU speed – If you are overclocking your CPU or plan to, a tool with the ability to set CPU speed settings can help monitor the temperature and control the fan speed to prevent overheating.
  • Option to show internal voltages – It’s an essential factor as voltages can directly impact the stability and performance of your system and the CPU temperature.
  • Ability to monitor the temperature of all cores – This can be an essential factor, as temperatures can vary between cores and cause performance issues or potential damage.
  • Monitoring software display GPU temperature – Monitoring both the CPU and GPU temperature can give you a complete picture of your system’s health and performance and help you identify potential issues more quickly.
  • Customize the processor’s max/min speed – Customizing the processor’s speed can affect the temperature, as higher speeds generally result in higher temperatures, while lower speeds can help reduce heat.
  • Automatic shutdown in case of overheating option – It can help prevent potential damage to hardware caused by excessive heat. This feature is helpful for systems used for demanding tasks, such as gaming or video editing, which can generate a significant amount of heat.

Now, let’s explore some great PC vitals monitor options.

What is the best PC vitals monitor?

1. Speccy – Great Windows compatibility


Speccy is a great tool that scans and shows all your computer’s hardware. It will show your processor’s brand and model and also its performance.

Through many indicators, you will also find your CPU’s temperature. This is very helpful if you need to keep an eye on its heating state.

The users are delighted with Speccy as it is perfectly compatible with all Windows versions and does not waste your system resources while running.

Another notorious feature is that Speccy provides temperature information about other PC components.

Some great features of Speccy include:

  • System information display
  • Real-time temperature monitoring
  • Fan speed control
  • System health and performance analysis

Speccy

Know what’s inside your computer at all times thanks to this fast, lightweight, and super-efficient software!
Download Visit website

2. PRTG Network Monitor – Perfect for server and router monitoring

At first sight, you wouldn’t probably choose PRTG Network Monitoring because nothing about its name suggests it would be helpful.

Besides, it takes some product inspection to learn all its capabilities. But we guarantee the PC vitals monitor will become a must once you understand how PRTG can help.

PRTG monitors three large performance areas: server threshold, network traffic limits, and temperature.

Regarding temperature monitoring, the software looks at servers, routers, and switches to inform about CPU and server bottlenecks in due time.

PRTG allows you to set thresholds and customized alarms to take immediate action before the CPU fails.

Although most CPUs come with overheat protection, PRTG looks deeper into other system details to find the root cause, which you will most probably get as an explanatory all-in-one report.

Some great features of PRTG Network Monitor include:

  • Network device monitoring
  • Bandwidth usage monitoring
  • Performance and availability analysis
  • Alerting and reporting capabilities

PRTG Network Monitor

Get to the root of your computer’s CPU temperature issues with this complex monitoring tool and restore full system performance quickly.
Download Visit website

3. AIDA64 Extreme – Robust benchmarking tool

AIDA64 Extreme is a comprehensive system analyzer and benchmark tool with powerful features such as CPU monitoring and motherboard diagnostics.

Besides that, you can also look at your RAM and GPU performance and possible spikes&issues.

Its interface is very intuitive and similar to Microsoft Console Management. You can consult a large number of activity indicators.

This software also allows you to stress test all your components in various combinations.

Some great features of AIDA64 Extreme include:

  • System information and diagnostic tool
  • Hardware and software monitoring
  • Temperature, voltage, and fan speed monitoring
  • Benchmarking and stress testing capabilities

AIDA64 Extreme

All the tools you need to keep an eye on your entire system are now wrapped in this complete suite that will make your life easier!
Check price Visit website

4. HWMonitor – Great real-time monitoring

HWMonitor is a simple software for displaying your components’ performance. It shows stats like your system’s temperatures, fan speeds, and voltages.

This software is developed by CPUID, a developer of CPU-Z and PC Wizard, so we can say it has a pedigree.

The best thing about HWMonitor is its simplicity. The program lists all results on a single window, divided into layouts, similar to the Device Manager in Windows.

You can see your motherboard‘s temperatures and voltages, your processor’s temperatures and voltages, and your GPU’s temperatures and voltages.

Three sets of values are displayed – the current value, the minimum value, and the maximum value.

If you need to check your computer’s temperature quickly, HWMonitor is probably the best solution.

However, it doesn’t have more advanced features, like saving monitoring or SMBus data to a text file, controlling fan speeds, or setting warning alarms.

Some great features of HWMonitor include:

  • System temperature and voltage monitoring
  • Sensor readings and system information display
  • Real-time monitoring of power consumption
  • Support for a wide range of hardware components

⇒ Get HWMonitor

5. Rainmeter – Easy customization

Rainmeter is different from any other PC vitals monitor software on this list. It is not a standard program for measuring the system’s performance but a free utility for customizing your desktop.

Rainmeter works similarly to Gadgets, except it features way more options.

Rainmeter shows various data types on your desktop, including time, date, weather, CPU and RAM usage, temperatures, disk usage, and more.

It is powered by skins, which you can download all over the internet. Each skin provides some piece of info that might be useful to you.

When you install Rainmeter, it will use its default skin, which only shows CPU and RAM usage.

However, installing other skins can make it more versatile and powerful.

You can find skins in various places, but the most common are  DeviantArt, Customize.org, and the Rainmeter subreddit. Double-click when you download a skin (.rmskin file) to install and enable it.

As skins contain multiple features, you can choose which feature you want to display on your desktop.

Some great features of Rainmeter include:

  • Customizable desktop skin and interface
  • Real-time monitoring of system information
  • Wide range of available plugins and skins
  • Support for multiple languages

⇒ Get Rainmeter

6. CPU Thermometer – Simple system information and diagnostic

CPU Thermometer is a minimalistic program for measuring your CPU temperature. The program is straightforward to use, as it only shows CPU temperature and the current CPU load of each core.

Due to its simplicity, the CPU Thermometer lacks advanced features. The only customization option you have is the ability to change value metrics between Celsius and Fahrenheit.

CPU Thermometer shows your current temperature as a tray icon in the taskbar, which is good if you don’t want to deal with extra windows.

As we said, this program is straightforward and basic, and it’s for users who don’t want to do any deep analysis but check their CPU temperature.

Some great features of CPU Thermometer include:

  • Real-time CPU temperature monitoring
  • System information and diagnostic tool
  • Supports multiple temperature sensors
  • Easy-to-use interface and customizable display

⇒ Get CPU Thermometer

This concludes our list of the best hardware performance monitoring software for Windows 10.

These tools offer anything you need to keep track of your CPU temperature, voltage, and more, so you can choose the right program according to your needs.

Do you know about some other excellent monitoring programs? Let us know in the comments section below.

Latest Windows Subsystem for Android update adds camera, graphics improvements

Posted on by Kip Kniskern

Windows 11 Insiders, along with a Dev and Beta Channel update, are also getting an update to the Windows Subsystem for Android. The update, bumping the version number up to 2301.40000.4.0, offers a number of improvements:

  • Improved audio input latency and reliability
  • Improvements to camera experience (camera metadata now exposed to camera apps)
  • Improvements to framerate performance: certain benchmarks have improved by 10%-20% on ARM and 40%-50% on x64
  • Fixed zooming out in apps using touchpad or mouse
  • Improvements to platform reliability
  • Using latest Chromium WebView to version 108
  • Synchronizing global microphone and camera privacy toggles between Windows and Android apps
  • Android 13 security updates

The Windows Subsystem for Android allows Windows 11 Insiders the ability to run Android apps on Windows, once the subsystem is installed.

Xbox Game Bar Capture Greyed out: 3 Ways to Enable it Again

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Xbox Game Bar is a new feature that Microsoft has added to Windows 11. When you’re playing a game, you can open it to record videos and take screenshots of your progress in the game. Thus, today we will show you how to fix the Xbox Game Bar record greyed-out error.

Windows 11 users have reported that the Xbox Game Bar does not appear when invoked via a shortcut or quick startup icon after the system has been successfully booted. Or the record button is greyed out and doesn’t seem to work.

Let us get to it.

Why is the record button greyed out Xbox game bar?

There could be several reasons why the record button is greyed out on the Xbox Game Bar:

  • Game mode is not enabled – The Xbox Game Bar is designed to work with games running in Game mode. The record button will be greyed out if you are trying to record a non-game application.
  • Outdated or incorrect graphics card drivers – Outdated or incorrect graphics card drivers can cause compatibility issues with the Xbox Game Bar.
  • UAC is blocking the Xbox Game Bar – The Xbox Game Bar may be blocked by UAC on your system, triggering the problem.
  • The game is running in full-screen mode – The Xbox Game Bar can’t record games or applications running in full-screen mode. 
  • Hardware acceleration – Some systems may have hardware acceleration enabled that interferes with the Xbox Game Bar’s recording functionality. 
  • The game is not compatible – Some games or applications may not be compatible with the Xbox Game Bar’s recording functionality. Hence, you may expect this problem.

How can I fix Xbox Game Bar capture if it’s greyed out?

1. Edit the Game DVR value

  1. Open the Windows Search function and type regedit in. Then, click on the top result to open it.regedit xbox game bar record greyed out
  2. Go to the following location by copy-pasting it in the search bar at the top:  Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\GameDVRcomputer-regedit xbox game bar record greyed out
  3.  If you don’t have the AppCaptureEnabled key, right-click anywhere in the window and choose New, followed by the 32/64 bit value option. q-word xbox game bar record greyed out
  4. Lastly, enter AppCaptureEnabled in the Value name, then double-click on it to set its value to 1.app-capture xbox game bar record greyed out

Regedit is the Windows registry editor, which is a graphical tool that allows you to inspect and monitor the registry of the operating system. As well as edit it if required.

2. Reset the app

  1. Open Settings and go to Apps, followed by Apps & features.apps-apps&features xbox game bar record greyed out
  2. Type Xbox inside the search bar and choose Advanced options from the three-dotted menu next to Xbox Game Bar.game-bar-advanced xbox game bar record greyed out
  3. Finally, scroll down until you find the Reset button and click on it. That’s it; the Xbox Game Bar record greyed-out error should be resolved. reset-xbox xbox game bar record greyed out

When you reset an app, it will restore its original state and settings. It will behave exactly as it did when it was first installed on your Windows 11 computer.

However, unlike the traditional removing and reinstalling software, it completes automatically and considerably more quickly in this case.

3. Repair the ieframe.dll file

  1. Launch Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking on the cmd top result and choosing Run as administrator.cmd-run xbox game bar record greyed out
  2. Type or paste the following commands and press Enter after each one:
    sfc /scanfile=c:\windows\system32\ieframe.dll
    sfc /verifyfile=c:\windows\system32\ieframe.dll
    assoc
    sfc /scannowsfc-file xbox game bar record greyed out
  3. Lastly, reboot your computer and check whether the Xbox Game Bar record greyed out the issue is gone.

Dynamic Link Library (DLL) files can be corrupted or deleted in various circumstances. These circumstances include software malfunctions, memory crashes, and even corrupted registry files.

DLLs are critical components of your system, even though they are susceptible to damage. A dedicated repair tool that can identify problems before they impact your system can significantly improve your PC experience.

For more information and solutions to the Xbox Game Bar record greyed out error, check out our post on what to do if the Xbox Game Bar is not working.

Alternatively, check out our article on how to fix a buggy and unresponsive Xbox Game Bar.

We also have a great guide on what to do if Windows Alt R is not working, so don’t miss it.

Was this a helpful guide for you? Leave us a comment in the section below and tell us what you think and whether you have more solutions in mind. Thanks for reading!

Windows Update Components Must be Repaired: 4 Easy Solutions

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Windows Update is an essential component of the Microsoft Windows OS. It manages everything that has to do with the OS’ updating process, so keeping it in good condition is necessary.

Unfortunately, it is a software component that is prone to occasional errors.

Such would be the case with an error message some users have been reporting to have received. The error message states:

Windows Update components must be repaired, One or more windows update components are configured incorrectly

Fortunately, there are several things you could try doing that will fix this issue. Because of the importance of having Windows Update working in tip-top condition, we’ve compiled a list of all the solutions you should try.

What causes Windows Update components must be repaired error?

This Windows Update component must be repaired error can be caused by several factors, including:

  • Corrupted Windows Update components – The components that manage the Windows Update process may become corrupted, leading to this error.
  • Antivirus software – Some antivirus programs can interfere with the Windows Update process, leading to this error.
  • System files corruption – System file corruption can cause the Windows Update components to stop functioning correctly.
  • Broken Windows Update database – The Windows Update database may become damaged or corrupted, leading to this error.
  • Network connectivity issues – Network connectivity issues, such as a slow or unreliable internet connection, can prevent Windows from downloading and installing updates.
  • Insufficient disk space – If your hard drive needs more free space, Windows may not be able to download and install updates.

To resolve the error, you can try the fixes we recommend below.

How can I repair my Windows Update components?

1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Boot the PC in a Clean Boot State

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
    windows update components must be repaired
  2. Go to the General tab, choose Selective Startup, clear the checkbox next to Load Startup Items, and finally, tick the boxes next to Load System Services and Use Original boot configuration.MSConfig
  3. Go to the Services tab, check the box next to Hide All Microsoft Services, and click Disable all.
    windows update components must be repaired
  4. Click Apply and then OK.
  5. Restart the PC.

1.2 Run the Troubleshooter

  1. Download the Windows Update Troubleshooter from Microsoft.
  2. Double-click on the download to Run it.
  3. Follow the wizard to complete the process.

2. Run a System File Checker

  1. Press Windows, type in cmd, right-click the Command Prompt icon, and select Run as administrator.
    windows update components must be repaired
  2. Type in this line:
    • sfc /scannowSFC
  3. Let the scan run its course, and then restart the PC.

An alternative to this process would be an automatic assistant that can help you scan your PC thoroughly for malfunctioning system elements and repair them by finding healthy files as replacements from its vault.

3. Use DISM to repair any damaged files

  1. Press Windows, type in cmd, right-click the Command Prompt icon, and select Run as administrator.windows update components must be repaired
  2. Type in this line:
    • DISM /online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

The DISM tool can be used in a wide variety of situations. Fortunately, this includes repairing any damaged or incomplete Windows Update components.

Check out this complete guide for more information on how to use DISM.

4. Restore Windows Update components to their default settings

  1. Press Windows, type in cmd, right-click the Command Prompt icon, and select Run as administrator.windows update components must be repaired
  2. Type the following commands to stop the BITS and Windows Update services. Remember to hit Enter after each command.
    • net stop bits
    • net stop wuauserv
  3. Delete the qmgr*.dat files using this script:
    • Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%Application DataMicrosoftNetworkDownloaderqmgr*.dat"
  4. The problem should be solved; however, if not yet resolved, you may proceed with the next steps of this solution.
  5. Run the below codes to rename the following folders to *.BAK:
    • Ren %systemroot%SoftwareDistributionDataStore *.bak
      Ren %systemroot%SoftwareDistributionDownload *.bak
      Ren %systemroot%system32catroot2 *.bak
  6. Now, run the following scripts to reset the BITS service and the Windows Update service:
    • sc.exe sdset bits D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU)
    • sc.exe sdset wuauserv D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU)
  7. Type in this command and press Enter:
    • cd /d %windir%system32
  8. You should run the following lines of code to reregister the BITS and Windows Update files. Remember to hit Enter after each script.
    • regsvr32.exe atl.dll
    • regsvr32.exe urlmon.dll
    • regsvr32.exe mshtml.dll
    • regsvr32.exe shdocvw.dll
    • regsvr32.exe browseui.dll
    • regsvr32.exe jscript.dll
    • regsvr32.exe vbscript.dll
    • regsvr32.exe scrrun.dll
    • regsvr32.exe msxml.dll
    • regsvr32.exe msxml3.dll
    • regsvr32.exe msxml6.dll
    • regsvr32.exe actxprxy.dll
    • regsvr32.exe softpub.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wintrust.dll
    • regsvr32.exe dssenh.dll
    • regsvr32.exe rsaenh.dll
    • regsvr32.exe gpkcsp.dll
    • regsvr32.exe sccbase.dll
    • regsvr32.exe slbcsp.dll
    • regsvr32.exe cryptdlg.dll
    • regsvr32.exe oleaut32.dll
    • regsvr32.exe ole32.dll
    • regsvr32.exe shell32.dll
    • regsvr32.exe initpki.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wuapi.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wuaueng.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wuaueng1.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wucltui.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wups.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wups2.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wuweb.dll
    • regsvr32.exe qmgr.dll
    • regsvr32.exe qmgrprxy.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wucltux.dll
    • regsvr32.exe muweb.dll
    • regsvr32.exe wuwebv.dll
  9. Reset Winsock using the script below.
    • netsh winsock reset
      windows update components must be repaired
  10. Now you can restart the BITS and the Windows Update services
    • net start bits
    • net start wuauserv

By following these steps, you should eliminate any errors related to your Windows Update components.

Did you find our guide to be practical? Let us know what other errors you encounter in the comment section below.