Still using Xbox 360 marketplace? Microsoft has bad news

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

Microsoft will stop providing purchase option for a number of game titles and add-ons in a few selected territories on the Xbox 360 marketplace as of February 7.

That means, several items will not be available for purchase, but for those who’d acquired them before, there’s always an option to re-download them. 

Is Microsoft shutting down Xbox 360 marketplace?

Contrary to popular reports, however, Microsoft is not shutting down the marketplace for good, but rather stopping the distribution of several game titles. 

Previously, fans were worried after a message from Microsoft encouraging them to purchase any 360 games or DLC by May 2023 because they’ll put an end to the Xbox 360 marketplace over the course of the year.

In a statement to Gematsu, however, a Microsoft spokesperson says that the message was an error. 

As a reminder, beginning on February 7, 2023, a limited set of games, add-ons, and in-game content will no longer be purchasable in select markets via the Xbox 360 stores.

The list of items that will not be available on the marketplace

The list varies from one region to another, but in the United States, these titles will be removed from the Xbox 360 marketplace.

Aegis WingLeft 4 Dead
Assassin’s Creed BrotherhoodLeft 4 Dead 2
Assassin’s Creed® IIILIMBO
Assassin’s Creed® IVLost Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed® Liberation HDMass Effect 2
Blood of the WerewolfMONOPOLY DEAL
Blue DragonMutant Blobs Attack
BreakdownN+
Call of Duty: Advanced WarfareOutpost Kaloki X
Call of Duty: GhostsPeggle ® 2
Castle CrashersPhantom Breaker: Battle Grounds
Cloning ClydePrince of Persia
Counter-Strike: GOR.U.S.E.
Dark Souls™Sega Vintage Collection: Alex Kidd & Co.
Darksiders IISkate 2
DAYTONA USASouth Park™: The Stick of Truth™
Defense GridSpelunky
Eets: ChowdownSplinterCellConviction
Far Cry® 2Star Wars Battlefront
Final Fight: DblImpactStar Wars KOTOR 2
Iron BrigadeThe Orange Box
Jeremy McGrath’s OffroadThe Raven Episode 1
Jet Set RadioThe Witcher 2

If you’re re-downloading previously purchased titles from the Xbox 360 marketplace, here are some tricks you can do to speed up the download process from the Xbox app.

Have you purchased or planned to buy any of these 360 titles? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

Steam Won’t Open on Windows 10: How to Fix & Causes

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Steam is a highly reliable application that allows users to access and buy various immersive games of different genres easily. However, despite being reliable, some users will complain that Steam won’t open on Windows 10.

This prevents users from playing Steam games on their PC. If you are also facing this issue, this guide will show you quick ways to fix it for good.

Why is Steam not opening?

Below are some of the factors that cause the Steam client not to open on your PC:

  • Issues with Steam: The first thing to check in while trying to fix this issue is if the Steam client is working well. If it is not, you can refresh your Steam installation by running a few commands.
  • Interference from third-party apps: Another cause of this problem is interference from a third-party app. The solution is enabling Safe Mode and checking if Steam opens normally. If a third-party app is the cause of the problem, you might need to disable or remove the app using uninstaller software.
  • Outdated PC: Some users have also found this problem due to an outdated operating system. The quickest way to fix this is to update your PC to the latest version.

It is worth mentioning that the solutions presented in this guide apply to a variety of Steam error messages:

  • Steam client won’t open: This happens occasionally, and a restart should be enough. Otherwise, this guide will help.
  • Steam app won’t open when I click the icon: In both scenarios, double-clicking on the desktop icon or using the Start Menu, the result is the same and is fixed in this guide.
  • Tera won’t open on Steam: This can happen if a game is not properly integrated with Steam.
  • Steam won’t open on PC: This error might show if there’s conflicting software installed that prevents Steam from opening.
  • Steam won’t open Windows 7: Steam won’t open error is encountered by users of Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7 alike. There’s no difference, so the advice stays the same.
  • Steam game says running but won’t open: In this case, Steam is already running, but it is not responding. You can end the process in Task Manager.

How can I fix Steam if it won’t launch on Windows 10?

Before proceeding to the fixes in this section, below are some of the troubleshooting steps you can try:

  • Check if Steam is down
  • Restart your PC
  • Restart your network device
  • Temporarily disable your antivirus and/or firewall

1. Use a command

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run utility.
  2. Once the dialog is open, type in or copy this command: steam://flushconfigfix steam
  3. Next, press Enter or click OK.
  4. Finally, click OK when the Steam dialogue appears.

The command above is used to refresh the installation of the Steam application. Therefore, it is used to fix several issues related to the gaming client, including the Steam won’t open on Windows 10 issue.

2. End Steam processes

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Task Manager option.
    task manager steam wont open windows 10
  2. Right-click all Steam processes and select End task.
    end task steam wont open windows 10
  3. Now, restart the Steam client.

In some cases, Steam might not open on Windows 10 because it encountered minor glitches. The easiest way to fix this is to restart all instances of Steam.

3. Update PC

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select Update & Security.
    update and
  2. Click the Check for updates button.
    check for
  3. Now, install any available updates, including the optional ones.

The Steam client needs Windows 10 to be up-to-date to run without glitches. Hence, if your PC is outdated, you need to update it to the latest version.

4. Enter Safe Mode

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select the Update & Security option.
    update and
  2. Select Recovery in the left pane and click the Restart now button under the Advanced startup section.
    restart now steam wont open windows 10
  3. When your PC restarts, select the Troubleshoot option.
    troubleshoot steam wont open windows 10
  4. Now, choose the Advanced option.
    advanced options
  5. Select Startup Settings.
    startup settings
  6. Next, click the Restart button.
    restart steam wont open windows 10
  7. After your PC restarts, press 5 or F5 to Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
    safe networking
  8. Finally, relaunch the Steam client.

Configuring your PC’s settings to start in Safe Mode is another method to solve the Steam won’t open on Windows 10 issue. Safe Mode only starts your PC with the minimum drivers and processes required to run it smoothly.

So, if there are third-party programs interfering with the starting of the steam application, then Safe Mode should fix the problem.

5. Reinstall Steam

If all else fails, there is always the option of reinstalling Steam.

If you want to avoid going through the tiring process of redownloading and reinstalling all of your games, then you can move the steamapps folder (the folder containing all of your games) from the Steam directory and save it in another place on your HDD.

Afterward, uninstall your Steam software and completely delete the remaining location of your previous installation. After you reinstall Steam you will want to copy the steamapps folder back into the new location of your Steam directory.

⇒ Get Steam [Latest version for Windows 10]

6. Perform a system restore

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type rstrui.exe, and click the OK button.
    rstrui
  2. Click Next in the window that pops up.
    next steam wont open windows 10
  3. Now, select a restore point and click the Next button.
    restore point
  4. Finally, click the Finish button and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.
    finish

If Steam still won’t open on Windows 10 after applying the troubleshooting steps above, you might need to restore your PC to a point when everything is working well.

This is because you might have made some changes that are hard to trace to your PC, causing the issue. Performing a system restore will reverse these changes and restore normalcy on your PC.

The Steam won’t open on Windows 10 issue can be frustrating, as it denies you access to your games. But with the solutions in this guide, you should be able to fix them for good.

If Steam games won’t launch on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

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

Fix: Error Code Deep Ocean on Minecraft [Error 0x80070057]

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Minecraft is one of the best games in the gaming community. Regardless of its accolades, users complain about many errors they encounter with the game. The error code Deep Ocean in Minecraft is a common error. Also, users report Minecraft Realms’ internal server errors in the game.

What causes the Minecraft Deep Ocean error code?

Error code: 0x80070057 code: Deep Ocean in Minecraft indicates that something went wrong in the login process. It can occur for several reasons that may vary for different players. However, an outdated game app is the most likely cause of the error.

Other factors that may be responsible for the Minecraft Deep Ocean error code include:

  • Network congestion/unstable network connection – Minecraft needs a stable network connection to connect to its server and initiate its functionality. If your network connection is congested, it can affect the communication between the game and its servers.
  • Issues with Minecraft launcher – You can run into numerous problems with the game if the Minecraft launcher on your PC is not working or is missing. It can prevent the game from working and stops its components from running as they should.
  • Outdated Windows operating system – Running your games on an outdated system can result in many errors because the PC lacks updates and patches to fix its bugs. It can affect how the Minecraft client works, so make sure to get things on the right track and solve any Windows Update errors.
  • Interference with other apps – Apps like antivirus software can block the functionality of other apps running on your computer due to their activities. Also, having many apps running can affect Minecraft.

However, you may experience the error for reasons not listed above. Nonetheless, we’ll take you through some fixes that can fix the problem.

How do I fix Minecraft’s Deep Ocean error code?

Before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting on your game and PC, go through the following:

  • Perform a power cycle on your network router and reconnect your PC.
  • Close background apps running on your PC.
  • Disable any antivirus software you have installed on your computer.
  • Restart Windows in Safe Mode and check if the error persists.
  • Install all Windows updates from the Settings menu.

If you cannot fix the error, proceed with the troubleshooting process below.

1. Update the Minecraft client on your PC

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Microsoft Store in the search space, and launch it.
  2. Select the Library in the bottom left corner of the page.
  3. Choose the Downloads and updates option from the drop-down.
  4. Select the Get updates option to prompt updates for installed apps, then press Update all.

You can check how to update Minecraft on Windows 10/11 PCs if you encounter issues with the steps above.

2. Repair the app

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Now select Apps.
  3. Look for Minecraft in the list of apps, click on it, and select Advanced options.
  4. Scroll down and click the Repair button. Check if the game works fine. If not, come back here and click the Reset button.

If this solution doesn’t fix the problem, you should also consider uninstalling and reinstalling Minecraft.

3. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter

  1. Click the Start button and go to Settings.
  2. Select Update & Security.
  3. Click on Troubleshoot from the left and select Additional troubleshooters from the right pane.
  4. Click on Windows Store Apps and hit the Run the troubleshooter button.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the troubleshooting and fix the problem.

4. Temporarily disable Windows Defender Firewall

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Windows Security in the search box, and press Enter.
  2. Click the Virus & threat protection option from the search results, then click Manage settings.
  3. Toggle off the Real-time protection option to disable the Windows Defender Antivirus.

Disabling the Windows Firewall antivirus will fix any interference its service is causing with the Minecraft game. Read how to fix the Windows Defender Firewall if it can’t change settings on Windows 11.

5. End task for Minecraft

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run box, type taskmgr, and press Enter to launch Task Manager.
  2. Right-click the Minecraft client, click the End task button, and click OK to confirm.
  3. Restart your PC and check if the issue persists.

Ending tasks for the Minecraft client on your PC will close background activities that might have interrupted the client.

We hope our solution helped you fix the error code unknown Deep Ocean Minecraft, and now it’s working fine.

You can also check for other ways to open the Task Manager via shortcuts on your PC if there’s an issue with the process outlined.

We also have a detailed guide to help you fix the Minecraft Forge installer not opening on Windows 11. You can also check how to make your own Minecraft server for free.

Another similar error is the Minecraft error code Obsidian, so don’t miss it. We also have a new guide on the Minecraft error code Drowned on Switch, so you might want to check it out.

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

5 Easy Fixes to Tinder Failed to Update Profile Pic

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

The beauty of using Tinder is how easy it is to meet people. Unfortunately, many users reported that Tinder failed to update a profile pic.

Normally, all it takes is just swiping through profile images to like a profile. And if the other user does the same to like you back, then it is a match. You can also use Tinder in a browser, yet the app is far more popular.

But if Tinder failed to update profile pic, you’re excluded from the game before it even started.

Whenever you have problems like there was an error updating your profile on Tinder, it’s frustrating.  But why do these update or upload errors occur, to begin with?

Many users wonder, and legitimately so – why do my pictures keep failing to upload on Tinder? Let’s find out together.

Why won’t Tinder upload my photos?

Whenever you see that there was an error updating your profile on Tinder, you can expect picture-related issues, but not only.

In addition to Tinder photo upload spinning, you can also expect the following:

  • Tinder failed to process video
  • Updating your job title failed Tinder
  • Can’t edit Tinder profile at all – BIO, name, etc.
  • Tinder photo upload taking forever

Obviously, you need to make sure that you have the latest version of the app installed. If that’s not the case, go ahead and update or even reinstall it.

Cache accumulation can be just as bad, so you might want to clear any piled-up clutter. Last, but certainly not least, you should think about what photos are not allowed on Tinder.

Does Tinder block certain photos? It is possible and according to their Terms & Conditions, they do perform regular checks and remove content that violates their policies.

How do I fix Tinder error updating profile?

1. Update your Tinder profile picture the proper way

  1. Launch the Tinder app on your device.
  2.  Next select Settings in the top left corner. 
  3. At the top of your screen, select the option Edit info. It can be found just beneath your username, and current profile picture.Tinder-error-updating-profile-pic-upload-picture
  4. A window with six squares in total will then appear, where you can upload pictures will be displayed.
  5. Select the + sign on one of the squares to upload any image of your choice.error-updating-profile-pic-hit-the-plus-sign
  6. Wait for the picture to display on Tinder before closing the window.
  7. Your new profile picture should now be set.
Note icon NOTE
If you upload more than one image, you have to move the picture of your choice to the first position. This way, Tinder will recognize and set it as the first image on your profile.

2. Restart your mobile

  1. Hold down the Power button on your mobile device until it displays the Shutdown, and Restart options.
  2. Choose the Restart option and wait for two minutes for your device to complete its restart process.
  3. Next, open the Tinder application.
  4. Enter your login credentials, and retry the steps to set up a profile picture.

If restarting your device does not work, let’s try updating your Tinder application on your device.

3. Update your app to avoid the Tinder error updating profile

3.1. Update Tinder on Android

  1. Launch the Google Play store.
  2. Select the menu and choose My apps & games.
  3. From the list, find the Tinder app and tap Update.

3.2. Steps to update Tinder on iOS

  1. Click on the App Store on your device to open it.
  2.  Type in Tinder in the search bar . Select Tinder app when it comes up from the displayed suggestions.Tinder-error-updating-profile-pic-appstore-search-bar
  3. Next click on the update button to start updating the Tinder app on your smartphone.error-updating-profile-pic-update-button
  4. Click on the Accept/I Agree button if you are prompted with the list of permissions.
  5. Proceed with selecting the Open option to start using the updated version of Tinder on your device.
  6. Finally, go ahead and update your Tinder profile.

4. Clear Data & Cache

  1. Open Settings on your device, and navigate to Applications.
  2. Scroll till you find the Tinder application icon.
  3. Click on the Tinder application to open a new window, and click on the Clear Cache button.
  4. Next click on Clear Data.  After that launch the Tinder app.
  5. Log in to your account, and try to update your profile picture again.

Sometimes the simplest way to solve this error is by clearing the cache files on Tinder.

5. Contact Tinder Customer care

Send an email to [email protected]. In the email explain the problem you are facing, which in this case you cannot update your Tinder profile picture.

Tinder’s support will respond to your email with useful information about the cause of your problem and hopefully, get your account back in order.

If you’ve managed to solve your Tinder error by following the above-mentioned steps, or if you have any suggestions, please use the comment section below.

Twitter subscriptions reportedly at 290,000, well below Elon’s 50% revenue mark

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

According to a report seen by The Information, a total of 180,000 people based in the U.S. had made subscriptions to Twitter mid-last month. These numbers are significantly low, considering the fact that Elon has been intending to make the subscriptions represent 50% of the platform’s total revenue.

Elon’s plans aren’t quite taking shape as he had hoped them to, with the total number of subscriptions coming in at 290,000. A huge number of subscriptions made are from users based in the States which constitutes approximately 62%.

It should be noted that this figure also features the new Twitter Blue subscription which was launched shortly after Musk’s takeover. Currently, a Twitter Blue Subscription will cost you $8 per month, however, this is for web users. If you are making the subscription from your Android or Apple device, it will cost you $11 per month. The subscription will grant you access to premium features such as editable Tweets and more.

The Information further noted:

All together, the global number of subscribers would equate to around $28 million in annual revenue — less than 1% of the $3 billion Musk has said Twitter aims to make in revenue this year.

In related news, Twitter announced its plans to shut down free access to its APIs, but this has since changed. Elon has made revisions to this arrangement after receiving suggestions and feedback from developers.

Musk’s amendment incorporates a new provision that allows verified users to a write-only API. with one limitation, that the bots must be providing good content for free. It is not yet clear what constitutes as “good content” but if this becomes well-defined bots will continue lurking on Twitter. This also doesn’t address researchers’ etc. need for read access to Twitter, to monitor hate speech, for example.

It will be interesting to see how Twitter will distinguish good content from bad, and how Elon plans to increase subscriptions.

Are you a Twitter Blue user? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

via: Thurrott

Four upcoming indie games showcased at special ID@Xbox event

Posted on by Robert Collins

2023 promises to be a landmark year for Xbox in terms of AAA titles, with Hogwarts Legacy and Atomic Heart releasing this month, and later in the year the likes of Redfall, Forza Motorsport and Starfield at last releasing to the anticipation of Xbox fans everywhere.

The same holds true for indie games on Xbox in 2023, thanks in no small part to the ID@Xbox program. On Monday the ID@Xbox team hosted a special showcase event giving us a fresh look at four previously announced indie games headed to Xbox later this year. Without further ado, let’s check them out below.

Planet of Lana (Wishfully)

 

A planet that used to be a place of undisturbed balance between human, nature and animal has now become something else entirely. The disharmony that had been in the making for hundreds of years has finally arrived in the form of a faceless army. But this is not a story about war. This is a story about a vibrant, beautiful planet –and the journey to keep it that way. Planet of Lana is a cinematic puzzle adventure coming to Xbox & PC in Spring 2023.

The Last Case of Benedict Fox (Plot Twist)

Dive into a twisted world of secret organizations, forbidden rituals, and cold-blooded murders. Enter the consciousness of the victims to explore their memories in search for clues. Take up the last case of Benedict Fox, a self-proclaimed detective bound to his demon companion.

The game will launch on April 27th.

Everspace 2 (Rockfish Games)

EVERSPACE™ 2 is a fast-paced single-player spaceship shooter with deep exploration in space and on planets, tons of loot, RPG elements, mining, and crafting. Experience a thoughtful story, set in a vivid, handcrafted open world full of secrets, puzzles, and perils.

This game is currently playable on Game Pass in Preview. The full release will be available on April 6th. 

Lightyear Frontier (FRAME BREAK AB, Amplifier Game Invest)

Start your interstellar homestead in this peaceful open-world farming adventure!
Build your sustainable exofarm, grow alien crops, and explore a new world full of mystery with up to three friends!

Release date TBA.

Wrap up

If there’s anything these showcases from the ID@Xbox event prove, it’s that the future looks bright for indie games on Xbox. Which of these upcoming indie titles are you excited for? Let us know down in the comments.

Via glitched.online. 

 

 

5 Best Bose Receiver for your Speakers: Best Sounds Only

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

Bose is a resounding name in the world of audio electronics, and this is why many are looking to get a Bose receiver.

But not all stereo receivers can fully showcase what your speakers can do. That is why you should go more towards quality and not the cheapest ones you find.

If you own Bose speakers, today we’re going to show you the best receivers that can work with your set of speakers.

Note: Deals are subject to change. Keep in mind that the price tag often varies. We recommend going on the vendor’s website to check the price. Some of the products may be out of stock by the time you’ve made your purchasing decision. So, hurry up and hit the buy button.

What are the best stereo receivers for Bose speakers?

Sony STRDH190 2-ch – Best overall

  • 100 watts x 2 (8 ohms, 1 Kilo Hertz)
  • Phono Input, 4 Stereo RCA Audio Inputs, 3.5-millimeter Input, Stereo RCA Output
  • Connect up to 4 speakers; A/B switching to play all at once, or in separate zones
  • Doesn’t handle sounds when cranked too high
Check price

The Sony STRDH190 is an elegant and probably the best receiver for Bose speakers that lets you enjoy the pristine sound quality in a good-looking package that will make it fit with pretty much any audio system.

You aren’t limited to using it just on your Bose speakers since the Bluetooth connectivity lets you use it with pretty much anything that has an audio output.

The built-in FM Radio has 30 stations presets; the wireless remote control comes with batteries included.

Donner Stereo Receiver – Great budget solution

  • Bluetooth 5.0 support
  • 4 channels
  • Up to 440W power
  • SD, USB, RCA and ECHO input
  • Humming sound
Amazon Product Check price

If you’re looking for a Bose receiver, then this model might be perfect for you. It comes with 4 channels and maximum power of 440W. This means that it can support up to four groups and up to 8 speakers with 4-8 ohms.

The receiver has Bluetooth 5.0 allowing you to easily connect any Bluetooth device to it with ease. Regarding the analog input, there’s SD card, USB disk, RCA input and ECHO microphone input.

FM function is available as well, and you can save up to 50 different radio stations. Overall, this is a great receiver that should work perfectly with your Bose speakers.

Pyle PT696BT.7 – Rather powerful

  • 5.2 channels
  • 1000W, 4-16ohm impedance
  • Bluetooth support
  • Equalizer controls
  • Standby light constantly flashing
  • Noticeable low level sound noise
Amazon Product Check price

This is a 5.2-channel stereo receiver and it can deliver up to 1000W of power. In addition, the device supports 4-16 ohms impedance, and it let’s you enjoy in high quality amplified audio.

Bluetooth is available as well, so you can steam music wirelessly from any device. The receiver is compatible with has 4K UHD TV support and Blu-ray passthrough.

As for connectivity, there’s USB, RCA, HDMI, and optical/digital audio support. Pyle PT696BT.7 offers great power and functionality, so it’s a great choice for all types of users.

Bose Music Amplifier – Wi-Fi powered

  • Wi-Fi support
  • Custom equalizer
  • Supports Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Chromecast
  • Aux connectors
  • Inability to independently control different speaker pairs
Amazon Product Check price

If you’re using Bose devices, then this is probably the best Bose receiver that you can get. This device is has Wi-Fi so it can stream music wireless. You can also access Bose Music app’s integrated music services.

In addition to Wi-Fi, there’s also Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Chromecast support. The device also has Bose signal processing technology that adjusts the tonal balance.

If you want to use your TV or any other audio devices, there are also aux connectors available. Bose Music Amplifer is an amazing device that will work perfectly with any Bose speaker, so be sure to consider it.

Onkyo TX-SR393 – Offers high-quality sound

  • 5.2 channels
  • 155W per channel
  • Bluetooth support
  • HDMI, ARC, HLG, Dolby Vission, BT.2020
  • Minor issues with firmware
Amazon Product Check price

This is a 5.2 channel receiver, and it can deliver up to 155W per single channel. The device works with video standards such as HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, and BT.2020.

There are 6 HDMI inputs, ARC-ready MAIN OUT, and SUB OUT as well as a 4K/60p passthrough. We also have to mention that all terminals support HDCP 2.2.

Bluetooth streaming is also available, so you can stream content seamlessly from any Bluetooth device. This is a great receiver, and if you want to enjoy in high-quality music, you should consider this device.

When you get your hands on a pair of good speakers, it would be a shame to bottleneck their potential just because you have a cheap stereo receiver.

That’s precisely why you should always go for the best products available, or at least the best ones within your budget range.

In the end, it’s you who is going to pay the price for having to listen to inferior-quality music or watching movies with bad-sounding soundtracks.

3 Ways to Prevent Automatic Dimming of the Laptop Screen

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Display forms an integral part of any PC, and issues can affect the overall user experience. Of late, many users have reported that their laptop screen is witnessing automatic dimming, and they are looking for ways to prevent it.

While there are a few quick and standard solutions, they don’t seem to fix screen problems for everyone. And that’s why we must look at the most effective ways to prevent the automatic dimming of the laptop screen.

Why is my screen dimming automatically?

Here are a few reasons you are facing the problem:

  • Misconfigured settings: There are certain features responsible for the automatic dimming of the screen, and if these are enabled, you might encounter the problem.
  • Outdated graphics driver: An outdated driver is just as likely to cause the issue, and to prevent automatic dimming of the laptop screen, make sure you have the latest driver version.
  • Bug in the OS: If you haven’t updated Windows in a while, it’s time you do because there could be a bug triggering the issue.

How do I stop my screen from dimming in Windows 10?

Before heading to the slightly complex solutions here, give these a try:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Check for Windows updates and install the latest available version.
  • Disable the display power-saving feature on Intel PCs and verify whether it helps prevent automatic screen dimming on a laptop.

If none of these worked, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Disable adaptive brightness

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type control panel, and hit Enter.control panel
  2. Click on System and Security.system and security to fix automatic screen dimming in Windows 10
  3. Next, click on Power options.power options
  4. Click on Change plan settings next to your active power plan.
  5. Click on Change advanced power settings.
  6. Expand Display, and then under Enable adaptive brightness, select Off for both On battery and Plugged in.disable adaptive brightness

If Adaptive Brightness is causing automatic laptop screen dimming, modifying its settings should prevent that. If you can’t turn off Adaptive Brightness, fixing it shouldn’t take much time.

2. Update your display driver

2.1 Update drivers manually

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager to prevent automatic laptop screen dimming
  2. Click on the Display adapters section to expand it.
  3. Right-click the adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers.Automatically search for drivers - Wireless drivers are missing
  5. Wait for the system to install the updated driver and restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

In case you see automatic dimming of the laptop screen and can’t think of ways to prevent it, updating the graphics driver should be a good start. Also, if Windows is unable to find a newer version, manually install the latest driver.

2.2 Update drivers automatically

The manual method is fine if you have the time, but sometimes it won’t work as expected, so you might also need to go to the manufacturer’s website and get the updated driver.

It is a lot easier to use a dedicated tool that will update all your drivers, not only the graphics one, automatically, with little input from yourself.

Therefore, try this solution to resolve your light-dimming issue with specialized driver software like Outbyte Driver Updater.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Avoid various driver-updating issues and use Outbyte Driver Updater for automatic updates.
Free Trial Download now

3. Disable the device

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.device manager
  2. Expand the Batteries section, right-click the Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery, and select Disable device.
  3. Click Yes in the confirmation prompt.

Some users managed to prevent automatic dimming on the laptop screen by disabling the Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery from Device Manager, so you should also try that.

And while you are fixing things, also find out the best ways to boost performance in Windows 10.

If you have any comments, suggestions, or maybe some other solutions for this problem, feel free to write to us in the comments section below. We would love to hear your opinion.

Fix: Mouse and Keyboard Not Working After Power Outage

Posted on by Cesar Cadenas

Power outages, and the surges that come with one, can be pretty disastrous as they can cause serious damage to a computer, like frying internal systems, so nothing can be read.

And in this particular instance, we’ll recommend what you should do when those devices stop working. It would be a shame if your keyboard got ruined by a power surge.

What other problems can a power outage cause?

Before going into the solutions, it’s important to point out the other computer problems a power outage can cause. That way, if they ever happen to you, you’ll know how to fix it:

  • USB ports can suffer from connectivity problems – You might also get an error message stating your USB drive has malfunctioned. In this instance, you should update the USB driver.
  • The internet connection may start malfunctioning – Check if there are any flashing lights on your internet router. We also recommend resetting the router.
  • Data on your hard drive can become corrupt – To clear out the corruption, you will need to run the CHKDSK command on your computer.
  • Your computer might not even turn on – While this is a worst-case scenario that rarely happens, it still can and is quite debilitating. You should get a technician to check out your machine.

To fix these peripheral errors, there are a variety of hardware and software solutions that you can do. There are a ton of fixes that you can try out. Even if one doesn’t work, you’re bound to find one that does.

How can I fix my mouse and keyboard after a power outage?

Here’s what you should do first:

  • Try unplugging and replugging your peripherals into a different USB port. A lot of the time, doing that simple action is what you need to do to fix the malfunction.
  • Use your mouse and keyboard on a different computer. See if they work on the other machine. If they don’t, then it’s recommended that you replace them.
  • Run the Windows 11 System Restore to return your computer to the previous state before the problem started. Power outages can mess with the settings.
  • However, if the mouse and keyboard work on the second computer but not on yours, you have a driver problem. You will need to download any recent Windows Updates.
  • And if all else fails, you will need to contact your computer’s manufacturer and see if there’s anything that can do. Otherwise, you may have to replace the machine outright.

1. Run Hardware Troubleshooter

  1. Launch the Command Prompt through the Windows 11 Search bar. You don’t need to run it with administrator permissions.
  2. Type the following command into the window and press Enter on the keyboard: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
  3. On the Hardware and Devices window, click Next.
  4. Give the program enough time to finish scanning for any hardware changes.
  5. Once it finishes scanning, select Apply this fix to restart the machine and fix the problematic USB port. Otherwise, select Skip this fix.
  6. If you choose Skip this fix, you configure how Windows 11 checks the latest whenever a new device is installed, whether automatically or manually.

If you’re using a laptop, it’s recommended that you first unplug all of your USB peripherals and then restart the computer using the touchpad.

2. Reinstall drivers for the mouse and keyboard

  1. Launch the Device Manager from the Search bar.
  2. Expand the entry for the device drivers you want to uninstall, be it the mouse or keyboard.
  3. Right-click the device name and select Uninstall device.
  4. In the following window, select the Uninstall button.
  5. Now go to the website of your device’s manufacturer and download the latest drivers. Below is a sample image.

3. Turn off Power Management settings

  1. Return to the Device Manager, right-click your peripheral, but this time, select Properties.
  2. Go to the Power Management tab in this new window.
  3. Uncheck the box next to Allow this device to wake the computer, then select OK.

4. Run System File Checker

  1. Bring up the Command Prompt on the Windows 11 Search bar and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command in and hit Enter to begin scanning: sfc /scannow
  3. Give your computer enough time to complete the process.
  4. If you’re still experiencing problems, type in the following three commands and hit Enter one after the other: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Once that’s done, try running the SFC scan and see if that works.

Power outages can cause drives and files on your computer to become corrupted. This is why you should run both an SFC scan and a Disk Check to clear the corruption.

5. Run Disk Check

  1. Open File Explorer and right-click the hard drive you want to scan.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Tools tab. Click Check underneath Error Checking to begin scanning.
  4. Select Scan drive in the new window that appears.
  5. Give your computer enough time to finish scanning.

Disk Check is a Windows system tool that scans that hard drive for any system errors. If it does detect anything, the tool immediately cleans it out.

We recommend running Disk Check semi-regularly to keep up with good computer hygiene. After scanning, the tool creates a log file telling what it found. Be sure to check it out.

6. Clean boot Windows 11

  1. Launch System Configuration from the Search bar.
  2. Go to the Services tab, then select Hide all Microsoft services.
  3. Click Disable all next. Right after that, select Apply.
  4. Now go to the Startup tab of System Configuration and select Open Task Manager.
  5. In this new section, disable each app with the Enabled status. You can do this by selecting a program and clicking Disable in the upper right corner. Pay attention to what you disabled.
  6. Close the Task Manager to return to System Configuration. Click OK to restart your computer.

After restarting, your computer will launch under a Clean Boot. Go back to the Task Manager and reenable the apps you disabled earlier. See if there are any issues that arise.

If you encounter any problem with an app, uninstall it. If you don’t, you may have a faulty Windows Update affecting your computer, which you should immediately roll back.

7. Disable Selective Suspend

  1. Launch the Control Panel and select Power Options. Make sure the View By setting is set to Large Icons.
  2. Select Change plan settings next to the computer’s selected power plan.
  3. On the following page, click Change advanced power settings.
  4. Scroll down in the new small Power Options window until you find USB settings. Expand that entry.
  5. Click each entry you see, if there are multiple, and set them to Disabled.

What can I do if my motherboard is failing?

Power outages can also short-circuit a motherboard which can result in systemic failures, random reboots, and crashing, complete with the infamous Blue Screen of Death.

Fixing this problem is a multi-step process you can do right at home. It does require you to open up your computer, replace some damaged parts, and clean out the motherboard.

If something like this intimidates you, you should take in your computer for repairs or send it back to the manufacturer.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about other keyboard or mouse problems. And please tell us if there’s a specific guide for a Windows 11 error that you’d like to see.

Best Browsers For Windows XP to Use in 2026

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Finding a browser for Windows XP isn’t easy. If you’re one of the 0.37% PC users who haven’t given up on it yet, you know that. Many dropped support for the legacy system. But if you still use it, we found some options.

Let’s check them out:

Which web browser still supports Windows XP?

We selected Windows XP browsers that still work in 2024. You can download our top picks for Windows XP 64 and 32-bit from trusted sources to ensure security and compatibility.

1. Supermium – Best overall

supermium main window

Supermium is an up-to-date browser built on a Chromium engine. If you want to use Google Chrome on Windows XP, this is the closest option.

It gets frequent security updates and offers a similar sandbox environment to Chrome’s, so security shouldn’t be an issue.

Other great features:

  • Up-to-date Chromium browser
  • Works on Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7
  • Sandbox feature
  • Google sync support

⇒ Get Supremium

2. MyPal 68 – Fast browser

mypal browser open

MyPal 68 is a pretty fast browser for XP and loads up most modern pages without issues. Moreover, it 68 supports some Firefox extensions like uBlock Origin and themes.

It is designed to work smoothly on old computers, making it a viable Windows XP browser. Built on Firefox Quantum, it still gets security updates and ensures stability.

Other features:

  • Pretty secure
  • Can be easily customized
  • Loads many modern pages

⇒ Get MyPal 68

3. K-Meleon – Lightweight browser

k-meleon browser main page

K-Meleon is a lightweight browser powered by the Gecko engine, similar to Firefox, requiring just 256 MB RAM.

It offers extensive customization options for the toolbar, menu, and hotkeys. Use it clean for optimal speed on older Windows systems like XP and Vista.

Other features:

  • Highly customizable
  • Works with extensions
  • Low resource usage

⇒ Get K-Meleon

Which browser is most secure on an old Windows XP system?

If you’re looking for security, then Supermium might be the best option, since it’s getting the latest Chromium updates. Industry leaders known for security like Chrome and Mozilla dropped support for XP, so this is your best bet.

There you have it: a list and review of the best browsers on Windows XP. These apps all have different strong points, but they are all safe.

That said, if you run Windows XP without security, the risks are high. So, along with a good browser, we also recommend using a reliable antivirus that still supports Windows XP.

Do you need a list for current operating systems, like the best browsers for Windows 11? Then check our detailed guide for the best options. Conversly, if you’re into vintage OS, check our rundown of the best browsers for Windows 7.

If you like the legacy OS, you may also need tools like the best Windows XP software, a reliable VPN client for Windows XP, solid antivirus for Windows XP SP2, or even PC optimization software for Windows XP to keep things running smoothly.

If you want to learn more, we have a great guide that answers if you can keep using Windows XP, so don’t miss it.

Feel free to let us know the browser that boasts the right combination of features for you in the comments below.

How to save messages in Microsoft Teams and why you would want to on Windows 11

Posted on by davew

Do you ever find yourself scrolling through hundreds of messages in Microsoft Teams, trying to find that specific message you need? If so, then you need to learn how to save messages in Microsoft Teams. Not only will you find messages easier, but it also helps to keep important information organized and easily accessible.

In our last guide, we went over how to bookmark messages in Microsoft Teams, but this time around we will also explore how to save messages, why you would want to, with the benefits of saving them, and provide some tips on how to access and use the feature in Microsoft Teams.

What are “Saved” messages in Microsoft Teams?

Bookmarked messages in Microsoft Teams are simply messages that you’ve marked as important and want to save for later. These messages can be easily access from a separate bookmark section, making it much easier to find important information when you need it.

Save messages in Microsoft Teams

Saving messages in Microsoft Teams is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. Here’s how:

  1. Open the message you want to save in Microsoft Teams.
  2. Click on the three dots menu (…) located in the upper right corner of the message.
  3. Select Save this message from the dropdown menu. save messages in microsoft teams

That’s it! The message will now be bookmarked and can be easily accessed from the Saved section in Microsoft Teams. You can easily access and search through messages that you just saved in Microsoft Teams when you need them, just follow these steps:

  1. Click your profile in Microsoft Teams.
  2. Click Saved from the dropdown menu. save messages in microsoft teams
  3. Browse or search to find the saved message you are looking for in Teams.

Why would you want to save messages in Teams?

There are many benefits when you save messages in Microsoft Teams, including:

  1. Increased organization: Saving messages helps keep important information organized and easily accessible, so you don’t need to scroll through hundreds of messages to find what you need.
  2. Improved productivity: Being able to find what you are looking for when you need it will save time and boost your productivity as a result.
  3. Better collaboration: Saved messages can be shared with other team members, making it easier to collaborate and stay on the same page.

When saving messages in Microsoft Teams use descriptive labels to easily identify them later and only save the most important messages to avoid clutter. Be sure to share your saved messages with your team to improve collaboration and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Conclusion

save messages in microsoft teams

Saving messages is a simple, but powerful feature in Microsoft Teams that can help improve organization, boost productivity, and enhance collaboration. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can start to save messages in Microsoft Teams to stay organized and get more done in less time.

What Is an Unknown Hard Error & How to Quickly Fix It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

The unknown hard error is a generic term for any hard error that occurs when the operating system cannot complete an operation in a timely manner.

Your PC cannot execute commands or processes, so it cannot complete the requests without causing errors and slowing down the computer. If you’ve encountered any of these errors, we have compiled a handful of solutions that have worked for other users.

What is a hard error?

The unknown hard error is the most common message you’ll see while working with your computer. It’s usually accompanied by a process ranging from applications to services. 

For most users, closing the prompt made things go back to normal, but for the unlucky ones, they were plagued by a black screen, the disappearance of desktop icons and their PCs were generally unusable.

Some of the common triggers for this error include:

  • Software bugs – Some software bugs may cause the system to crash and generate an unknown hard error.
  • Hardware problems – If your hardware is broken or damaged, it can also generate an unknown hard error. Some symptoms of HDD failure are easy to detect.
  • Virus infection – Viruses can cause this type of problem because they interfere with the normal function of the operating system and prevent it from running properly.
  • Problematic Windows update – Windows Update is a service that automatically checks for quality updates, critical updates, and other important fixes to your computer. If an update fails to install, you’ll see an error message like this.
  • Corrupt system files – The most common system file that causes the unknown hard error is a corrupt Windows Registry. 

How do I fix an unknown hard error?

Before jumping to the slightly technical steps, try these basic ones:

  • If you have been using the same user profile for a long time and suddenly, your PC goes into an unknown hard error, you may want to switch to another user profile. You may have a corrupt user profile in your hands. If the new profile works, then you can take the necessary steps to repair your old one.
  • Close any background processes.
  • End any suspicious or associated processes from the Task Manager.
  • Try restarting your PC.

1. Run the DISM and SFC scans 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following commands and hit Enter: Dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth sfc /scannow
  3. Restart your PC.

2. Run the CHKDSK command 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following command, replace the C letter with your drive’s letter, and press Enter: chkdsk C: /fchkdsk-f repair corrupted directory

3. Run a virus scan 

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

4. Uninstall recent Windows updates 

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Windows Update and select Update history on the right pane.windows-update-history logitehc unifying not working
  3. Scroll down and under Related settings, click on Uninstall updates.uninstall-updates restart to repair drive errors
  4. This will take you to the most recent installed updates.
  5. Select the topmost update and click on Uninstall.Windows Updates Uninstall
  6. Restart your PC and check if the problem persists.

5. Check for Windows updates 

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Select Windows Update and click on Check for updates.check-updates lenovo-ideapad-keyboard-not-working
  3. Download and install if available.

6. Uninstall recently downloaded programs

  1. Click on the Start Menu button type Control Panel in the search bar and click Open.control panel
  2. Select Uninstall a Program under Programs.going uninstall program control panel
  3. In the Programs list, click on the name of the program you want to uninstall.
  4. Click Uninstall on the menu bar at the top of this window or in the Uninstall or Change a Program window that appears when you right-click on your program from this list.uninstall steam
  5. Follow any additional prompts that may appear when you complete this process. 

Don’t forget to remove any software leftovers after uninstalling the programs. If leftovers are found, they can cause errors and slow down your computer. A program such as IObit Uninstaller will help you identify any leftover files from recently installed software.

If you still have problems after uninstalling programs and removing software leftovers, try running your antivirus software again and restarting your computer.

7. Run the Windows update troubleshooter

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System on the left pane then Troubleshoot on the right pane.Open system troubleshooter
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.
  4. Scroll down, locate Windows Update, and click the Run button.windows-update-run-troubleshooter runtimebroker.exe error

8. Check for errors on the system drive 

  1. Hit the Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Click on This PC, then right-click on the drive containing your OS (usually drive C) and select Properties. 
  3. In the Properties window, navigate to the Tools tab and click Check under Error checking.check for errors
  4. A scan on your hard drive will begin, so be patient, as it may take some time.

In case Windows was unable to repair the hard drive, do not despair, as there are still some steps you can take to resolve the issue. Alternatively, you can opt for bad sector repair tools that will do the job automatically.

9. Perform a Clean boot

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

If you’re still experiencing the unknown hard error after going through all these steps, consider resetting your PC. Your OS may be corrupted, so try this method as a last resort. Remember to back up all your files first.

That’s it for this article, but keep the conversation going in the comment section below by letting us know any other method that worked for you but is not mentioned here.

Fix: This Blu-ray Disc Needs a Library for AACS Decoding

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Some users have repeatedly reported This Blu-ray Disc needs a library for AACS decoding, and your system does not have it error when trying to play a Blu-ray disc without the Blu-ray player software.

VLC Media Player is one of the most popular media players on the Windows platform. And it is fully capable of playing several video formats. This error can occur on both the older and newer version of Windows, including Windows 7, 10, and 11.

What are the possible causes for the AACS decoding error?

There are several causes for this error, but these are the most common ones:

  • Missing libraries – The error is usually caused by missing libraries. This can be easily resolved, and it’s slightly more complicated that downloading video codecs.
  • Encryption – Blu-ray discs are usually protected by encryption, but you can circumvent it using Blu-ray copy software.

What are the variations of AACS decoding errors?

Moreover, here are some error variations that you may encounter, but fix with the solutions below:

  • VLC AACS decoding in Windows 10 and Windows 11 – This error affects all versions of Windows, including the latest one.
  • VLC blu-ray disc is corrupted – A disc error will sometimes give you this message while trying to play it.
  • No valid processing key found in AACS config file – Missing files can cause this error to appear while trying to play Blu-ray videos.
  • Missing AACS configuration file (VLC) – This error is self-explanatory, and it usually appears if the necessary config file is missing.

How do I fix this Blu-ray needs a library for AACS decoding error?

1. Add libraries files to AACS

Note icon NOTE
The following steps require downloading a file from a third-party site while your browser may appear unsafe.

We have scanned the files and found them to be safe to use.

However, due to the unsigned nature of the file, the URL and the file will be flagged by the browser and then the computer. Download the file at your own risk.
  1. Visit the whoknowsmy.name website. You may see a warning showing the site does not have an SSL certificate. Click on the Continue link if you want to proceed.
  2. Under Keys Database, click on the get the file link.
  3. It will download the KeyDB.cfg file. Next, under the AACS Dynamic Library section, click that file hyperlink associated with your VLC Media Player version.
  4. Once downloaded, copy the KeyDB.cfg file.
  5. Press Windows + R to open Run, type %appdata%, and hit Enter.
  6. In the Roaming folder, click the New folder icon on top, and name the folder as aacs.
  7. Open the newly created aacs folder and paste the KeyDB.cfg file copied earlier.
  8. Next, open the Downloads folder and copy the libaacs.dll file to your clipboard.
  9. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer and navigate to the install folder for VLC, which could be either of the following two: C:\Program Files\VideoLAN\VLC or C:\Program Files(x86)\VideoLAN\VLC
  10. Paste the copied libaacs.dll file inside the VLC folder.

Once done, check if the AACS decoding error in VLC is still showing up. After copying the required library files to the correct folder, the VLC Media Player should play the Blu-ray disc.

Users are also suggesting using libbdplus instead, so you might want to try that as well.

2. Remove AACS protection using Leawo Blu-ray Ripper

  1. Go to the dedicated Leawo Blu-ray Ripper website, download it, and then install the software on your machine.
  2. Start Leavo Prof. Media and click on Blu-ray Ripper.
  3. Under the Convert tab, click on Add UHD/Blu-ray/DVD and select Add from CD-ROM.
  4. Now, you need to select the output format.leawo-format blu ray needs a library for aacs decoding
  5. Finally, select the output folder and hit the Convert button.

This is another method of dealing with This Blu-ray disc needs a library for AACS decoding, and your system does not have it error.

Instead of tinkering with the VLC libraries, you can convert the video and remove any protection. Including AACS with a tool like Leawo Blu-ray Ripper.

After you complete the steps presented above, the Blu-ray disc protection will be successfully removed. And you will get digital video files from the source Blu-ray disc for smooth playback.

Of course, you can also avoid VLC errors by getting one of the best media players.

We hope the above solutions will help you fix this issue, and now you can view your Blu-ray without any errors.

How to Find Wi-Fi Password on Windows 10: 2 Quick Methods

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

Whenever we set up the Wi-Fi, the password is usually saved on all devices when first connected to the network, and it’s not so simple to find it.

However, you have two easy ways of finding the Wi-Fi password without any wizard tricks involved: via Control Panel or Command Prompt.

How can I find my Wi-Fi password in Windows 10?

1. Use the Control Panel

  1. Type Control Panel in the Search bar and click on the app from the results.how to start control panel
  2. Click on View network status and tasks under Network and Internet.View network status
  3. Next, click on Change adapter settings from the left pane.change adapter settings
  4. Double-click on your Wi-Fi network.double click your wi-fi network
  5. Click on the Wireless Properties option.click wireless properties
  6. The last step is to navigate to the Security tab and check the Show characters box. The network security key (your password) will show up.click to show characters

This is probably the easiest method to find the Wi-Fi password in Windows 10, and before you know it, it will be displayed on the screen.

    2. Via Command Prompt

  1. 1. Type Command Prompt in the Search bar, and click on Run as administrator on the right.

    command prompt to find wifi password in Windows 10

  2. 2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt that pops up.

  3. 3. Type the following command and hit Enter to view the various network profiles: netsh wlan show profiles

    command

  4. 4. Now type the following command and press Enter while replacing WiFi Profile Name with the profile you want to find the password for: netsh wlan show profile name=”WiFi Profile Name” key=clear

    find password in Windows 10

  5. 5. The password you’re looking for will show up next to the Key Content field.

    key content

This is how to find the Wi-Fi password with CMD, and it’s the preferred method for many of our readers.

That’s it! This is how you find the Wi-Fi password in Windows 10 like a pro. And once you have it, save it somewhere safe so you don’t have to repeat the process.

Also, find out how to fix a slow Wi-Fi connection in Windows, or how to find Windows 11 Wi-Fi passwords.

If you’re using the latest version, you can also use these methods to view Wi-Fi password on Windows 11, so don’t hesitate to try them.

If you have any questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below.

Sysprep on Windows 11: What Is It & How to Use It

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Sysprep is a Windows command-line tool that allows IT to generalize the installation of Windows 11 by removing the unique security identifier (SID). This ensures that each new computer will be able to be re-used in the same way as all other computers in your organization.

The process of Sysprep can be used to install Windows onto a brand-new computer or upgrade an existing computer. If you’ve been wondering how to go about it, we explain below how you can run Sysprep.

Can you run Sysprep in Windows 11?

Yes, you can run Sysprep in Windows 11. If you’re asking yourself what happens when you run Sysprep, this tool will remove all of the software and configurations installed on your machine. It will then create a new image that can be deployed to another machine.

It runs a series of scripts that prepare the system for imaging, then shuts down all running processes, unloads any DLLs and unnecessary drivers, and creates a minimal service pack. The process is to ideally generalize your Windows 11.

This is particularly useful when you want to deploy Windows 11 without a product key, such as in an image deployment scenario or when creating a new virtual machine.

This tool has many advantages over other methods:

  • Customized installation – Sysprep also allows you to customize the Windows installation process for your users. You can add or remove features from the installation process, such as removing unnecessary components or adding custom apps.
  • Saves time – When an OS is first installed, it might require fully reinstalling its software. But with Sysprep, you can create an image of your current operating system and then copy this image onto a USB flash drive so that you can reuse that image for future installations.
  • Preventive maintenance – Sysprep enables organizations to ensure that software updates are installed before deploying an operating system on a computer. This can help avoid potential issues with older software installations or out-of-date drivers.
  • Optimization – By using Sysprep, you can optimize your deployment process by reducing the time it takes to install an operating system and any applications that go along with it. 

How do I run Sysprep?

To run Sysprep on your Windows 11, you need to fulfill the following requirements:

1. Enter Audit mode

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the following command and press Enter to change the working directory: cd c:\windows\system32\sysprep
  3. Next, type the following command to enter audit mode: sysprep /audit
  4. Windows will shut down and restart. Once it boots, you’ll have entered into Audit mode and logged in as the administrator.
  5. Alternatively, you can also enter Audit mode by pressing Shift + Ctrl + F3 on the Welcome screen.

To run Sysprep, you first need to boot Windows into Audit mode. If you are using Audit mode, you can bypass the first part of the setup process and move on to the first phase of your installation. 

In Audit mode, you are not prompted to log in, and you can use the computer normally. You will still be able to use Setup to configure some settings. If you can’t turn on Audit mode, check out our article on how to fix this issue.

2. Generalize Windows

  1. The Sysprep window should be open, but if it doesn’t, hit the Windows key, type Powershell in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: C:\windows\system32\sysprep\sysprep.exe
  3. Under System Cleanup Action, click on the drop-down menu and select Enter System Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE).
  4. Check the Generalize box and under Shutdown Options, select Reboot or Shutdown then click OK.
  5. The process may take a while, and when it’s complete, you can now clone your OS.

In case Sysprep fails to shut down, we answer why this happens and the remedy to such issues. If you’re one of the lucky people who’ve made it to the finish line, you may also be interested in Windows 11 cloning software.

While Sysprep is a time-saver and no doubt a faster process, it is not always rosy, and you may encounter errors such as Sysprep being unable to validate Windows installation. If so, don’t hesitate to visit our detailed guide for various fixes.

We’d love to hear all about your experience using Sysprep so leave us a comment down below.

Steam Deck Android Apps: 3 Simple Steps to Run Them [Explained]

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

Here’s how to run Steam Deck Android apps. This OS is a public release of a Linux-based operating system. Like most Linux-based consoles, using Android apps on Steam Deck will be difficult.

This is because there are virtually no good emulators on Linux to use for that purpose. Even though emulators aren’t the best, there might be a way to run Android games.

How can I run Android apps on my Steam Deck?

Use Genymotion

Note icon NOTE
This process comes with risks, and it will cause dual-boot issues. We’re not responsible for any potential damage that might occur, so use these steps at your own risk.

1.1 Download Genymotion

  1. Open the Konsole on your Steam Deck.
  2. Next, you need to set up the administrator password. Do that with the following command: passwd
  3. Next, unlock the file system with the following command: sudo steamos-readonly disable
  4. Next, run these three commands. Be sure to move your mouse while the second command is being executed: sudo pacman -S archlinux-keyring
    sudo pacman-key --init
    sudo pacman-key --populate archlinux
  5. After that, you need to download the necessary dependencies using the following command: sudo pacman -S --needed base-devel
  6. If you get prompted for input, press Enter.
  7. Optional: In case you encountered any issues with the previous step, repeat step 4 and then run this command: sudo pacman -S base-devel
  8. Lastly, install Genymotion by running this command: yay -Sy --noconfirm genymotion
  9. After the previous command is finished, double-click the Genymotion icon or run this command: genymotion

1.2 Configure the emulator

  1. After Genymotion starts, click the plus button and select Amazon Fire HD 8.
  2. Set the desired name and make sure that the Android version is set to 9.
  3. Next, configure hardware settings so that they match the ones from the screenshot.
  4. On the Display page, leave everything as it is and click Next.
  5. On the Android options screen, leave everything as it is. If Use virtual keyboard for text input is checked, uncheck it.
  6. After that, your emulator should start. If it doesn’t click the Play button.

1.3 Download additional files

  1. Download ARM Translation Packages and Aurora Store.
  2. After downloading both files, drag and drop Genymotion-ARM-Translation_for_9.0.zip to the open emulator window. Your virtual machine should be running before doing that.
  3. The installation will now start. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.
  4. Once the process is finished, restart the emulator.
  5. Next, drag and drop Aurora Store apk file to the emulator window and follow the instructions on the screen to install it.

The only way to run Android apps on Steam Deck is to download an Android Emulator, and Genymotion has proven to be the most compatible.

Does Steam have Android games?

games

Steam does not have any native Android games. However, games like Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath is available on Android and Steam.

Also, Steam is trying to bring some mobile experience to Android users. This is all thanks to the Steam Link app on Google Play that allows you to connect your controller to your phone and PC running Steam. From here, you can now enjoy your Steam games.

While there is a possibility to use Android apps on Steam Deck, all the available options have considerable downsides. For example, some users run Android x86 in Virtual Machine on Steam Deck, but this is not an ideal solution.

You might have to get another handheld console with broad Windows support to enjoy your Android games and apps. While still on the topic, if you need a list of the best verified Steam Deck games, check our detailed guide for excellent options.

Lastly, should you ever encounter the Steam Deck fatal error message, know that we have a dedicated guide on fixing it.

Feel free to let us know if you have a working workaround to use Android apps on Steam Deck in the comments below.

Can’t Uninstall Google Chrome? Here’s How to Fix That

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Many Windows users complained they couldn’t uninstall Google Chrome from their PCs. Usually, this issue comes together with an error message, but that is not always the case. And in a few cases, users can’t uninstall any app on the PC.

We know that many of you encountered this problem quite a few times. We are trying to come to your aid with this guide. Hopefully, after following the steps listed below, you can safely remove Google Chrome from your Windows computer.

Quick Tip:

Avoid going through the trouble of trying to fix Chrome and try a browser with a similar user experience, minus the stability issues. Opera One is a secure alternative with anti-tracking, adblocking, and VPN.

Built from the same Chromium engine, Opera One runs extremely fast and well, but you don’t have to fear that it will hog up all of your RAM, even with a multitude of tabs opened at the same time.

Opera One

Transfer your Chrome data and install your favorite extensions and get back online.
Free Visit website

Why Google Chrome cannot uninstall?

If Chrome processes are running in the background, there’s a good chance that Google Chrome will not uninstall in Windows 10. Or, it could be a problematic extension that could interfere with the uninstall process.

Other than that, if the computer is infected with malware, users reported that they couldn’t uninstall chrome on Windows 11. In this case, running a full system scan using an effective antivirus will do the trick.

The methods listed later are equally effective if you are experiencing the following:

  • Can’t uninstall Chrome – There are still running processes related to Chrome, leftovers of the registry, or other files. A dedicated uninstaller tool should be used.
  • Chrome won’t uninstall in Windows 10 – Add-ons or extensions broken can lead to this problem
  • Google Chrome won’t uninstall in Windows 11 – The same problem as above, issues with faulty add-ons.

What can I do if Chrome won’t uninstall?

Before you head to the slightly complex fixes, try the quick ones listed below:

  • Restart the computer.
  • If uninstalling the old-fashion way doesn’t work, a dedicated Google Chrome uninstall tool will surely do the job for you. Tests show how IObit Uninstaller can be considered one of the greatest uninstallers available today. Though not designed as an uninstaller, it allows you to remove unwanted software and delete any leftover remains while boosting the system’s performance.

If these didn’t work, move to the solutions listed next.

1. Close all Chrome processes

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to access Task Manager.
  2. Now, right-click on Google Chrome, and then select End Task. google chrome end task

If there were any processes running, users reported that they can’t uninstall Chrome, and it says windows are open.

After you are sure that all the processes and sub-processes are closed, you can continue with uninstalling the program. If you still can’t delete the Google Chrome browser on your computer, head to the next method.

2. Disable background apps from running

  1. Launch Chrome, click on the ellipsis near the top-right, and select Settings.Settings to fix can't uninstall chrome
  2. Now, select System from the tabs on the left.System to fix can't uninstall chrome
  3. Turn off the toggle for Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed.Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed
  4. You can now safely close your browser and uninstall it.

Many users who reported that they couldn’t uninstall Chrome on a remote desktop were able to fix the problem by disabling background apps. So, make sure to do that.

3. Disable any third-party extensions

  1. Open Google Chrome, click on the Extensions icon in the Toolbar, and select Manage extensions.Manage extensions
  2. Now, turn off the toggle under every extension to disable them.disable to fix can't uninstall chrome
  3. Check if you can now manually uninstall Chrome.
  4. If this doesn’t work, click on Remove under each of the extensions to uninstall them.remove to fix can't uninstall chrome
  5. Again, click Remove in the confirmation prompt.confirm

Internal issues with the Google Chrome browser, such as broken extensions, can prevent you from uninstalling the browser.

After disabling the add-ons and any extensions you have, the problem would be fixed. This method would work if you can’t uninstall Google Chrome on Windows 7.

Can I delete Google Chrome from my computer?

You can easily delete Google Chrome from any computer, be it Windows or Mac. And in most cases, it should uninstall immediately without throwing any errors.

However, you won’t be able to uninstall Google Chrome from ChromeOS or Chromebooks, but there are ways to lower its resource consumption.

These were the most effective fixes if you can’t uninstall Chrome in any iteration of Windows. Also, the same methods would work in case you can’t uninstall Chrome on Mac.

Besides, find out what to do if Chrome won’t open and the best ways to improve Windows performance. You can also install Chrome offline.

Feel free to comment below if these solutions worked for you or if you have any other recommendations. Moreover, if Chrome keeps capturing your screen, we’ve got you covered.

Opera Failed to Install: How to Permanently Fix it

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Many users complained that Opera failed to install for no apparent reason. This can be a major problem since you won’t be able to use the browser at all, but there are ways to fix this.

Why won’t Opera install?

This problem can occur due to a selected installation directory or due to problems with the setup file.

How do I fix Opera not installing?

Before moving to the slightly complex solutions, be sure to try selecting a different installation directory, as this can frequently solve the problem.

1. Install Opera through the offline installer

  1. 1. Visit the Opera download page.

  2. 2. Scroll down to Opera section and select the offline installer.

    opera offline download 64bit

  3. 3. Select where you want to download the Opera Installer, then click on Save.

    opera-browser-failed-install

  4. 4. After completing the download, click on the executable (.exe) file to run it.

    opera-browser-failed-install

  5. 5. This will open up the installer. If you want to customize the installation of Opera on your PC, you can click on Options.

    opera-browser-failed-install

  6. 6. Then, click the Install button to start the process. (Here you can change the language, installation location, and also the default settings for your browser)

    opera-browser-failed-install

  7. 7. The installation process will now start. Once it is finished, you will be able to start Opera and start browsing the internet without any issues.

For more information, check our in-depth guide on Opera offline installer. Before trying to install it, don’t forget to always check for Opera system requirements and ensure your PC can handle the software.

Opera

Try using the offline installer to quickly gain access to secure, fast, and error-free browsing.
Free Download

2. Use Opera FTP

  1. Navigate to the Opera FTP page and select the version you want to download. Try to find the latest one.
    opera select version FTP
  2. Select your operating system.
    select os opera ftp
  3. Next, select the version you want to use. We suggest using the one without autoupdate.
    select 64-bit version to download opera FTP
  4. Once you download it, install it.

These are some solutions that can help you if the Opera browser not installing, and in most cases using a different installation path fixes the problem.

You should also check our guide on Opera GX stuck on installing for the current user. Others reported a different issue where Opera keeps installing itself, but we covered that in another guide.

In case you’re using GX, we have a guide on what to do if Opera GX is not installing, so don’t miss it for more information.

You can also use steps from this guide, such as offline installer, if Opera download speed is slow in order to fix it. We also have a guide on what to do if Opera installer is stuck on downloading for more solutions.

If you have any suggestions or questions, feel free to address them in the comments section below.

Desktop.ini File in Windows 10: Everything You Need to Know

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Windows, though a user-friendly OS, often makes changes or throws errors beyond the understanding of regular users. One such is the mysterious appearance of the desktop.ini file in Windows 10.

Many are left wondering what the desktop.ini file in Windows is, whether it’s safe to keep or should be removed, and if there are any ways to hide it. So, let’s find out the answer to these questions.

What is the desktop.ini file in Windows 10?

Windows creates the desktop.ini files to store the folder configuration and related data. Simply put, it stores information on how a folder is displayed in Windows. You will find one in every folder and two desktop.ini files on the desktop.

The contents of a desktop.ini file are usually as follows, though they differ based on the folder it’s stored in:

[.ShellClassInfo]
LocalizedResourceName=@%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll,-21769
IconResource=%SystemRoot%\system32\imageres.dll,-183
[LocalizedFileNames]
chrome_UjPv0oPWiy.png=@chrome_UjPv0oPWiy.png,0
chrome_2DCPtGq71a.png=@chrome_2DCPtGq71a.png,0

Windows automatically creates these files when you modify the layout or a related setting for a folder to store the changes. Ideally, users shouldn’t be able to see the desktop.ini files since these are hidden by default.

But if you’re asking why you can see the desktop.ini file, you have probably changed the settings in the Folder Options and set the protected system files to be displayed.

In case you didn’t manually make the change, there’s a likelihood that a third-party app or a recent Windows update made the change, though in both these cases, it can be reverted to the default settings.

Regarding the deletion of desktop.ini files, you can delete the desktop.ini files without causing any significant damage to the computer, though it’s not recommended that you do so.

Any changes recently made and stored on the desktop.ini file will revert to the initial state. And in case you are only bothered by their presence, there’s a quick way to hide desktop.ini files in Windows.

How do I hide the desktop.ini file in Windows?

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, click on the ellipsis, and then select Options.folder options
  2. Now, head to the View tab, select Don’t show hidden files, folders, or drives under Hidden files are folders, and then tick the checkbox for Hide protected operating system files (Recommended).hide desktop.ini file in windows 10
  3. Once done, click on OK to save the changes.

There you go! This will hide the dekstop.ini files in every iteration of the OS, be it Windows 10 or 11. But it also hides the other system files and protected folders. If you want them to be visible, try the workaround listed next.

How do I hide desktop.ini files without hiding the other system files?

Tip icon Tip
We wouldn’t recommend unhiding the other system files since these are critical to the OS, and any inadvertent change to them can affect the PC’s functioning.
  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type File Explorer Options, and click on the relevant search result.file explorer options
  2. Now, navigate to the View tab, select Show hidden files, folders, or drives under Hidden files are folders, untick the checkbox for Hide protected operating system files (Recommended), and click OK to save the changes.unhide files
  3. Once the hidden desktop.ini and other system files are visible, right-click on the file/folder that you want to keep visible and choose Properties.properties to fix desktop.ini file windows 10
  4. Untick the checkbox for Hidden, and click on OK.disable hidden
  5. Select Apply changes to this folder, subfolder, and files, and then click OK.apply changes
  6. Finally, wait for the changes to come into effect.attributes
  7. Similarly, unhide all the files/folders that you want to keep visible.
  8. Once done, again open the View tab in Folder Options, select Don’t show hidden files, folders, or drives under Hidden files are folders, tick the checkbox for Hide protected operating system files (Recommended), and apply the changes.hide files

That’s it! Now, while the desktop.ini file in Windows 10 will remain hidden, the chosen system files will be visible and available for access.

Why are there two desktop.ini files on the desktop?

This may surprise many, but the desktop is a folder, instead, a combination of two folders, the User-specific desktop and the Public desktop.

Each of these folders has its desktop.ini file to store the configuration data. As a result, you have two such files on the desktop.

You know everything about the desktop.ini file and the steps to hide it in Windows 10. Remember to proceed cautiously when dealing with such files since these are critical to Windows.

And while you are here, do not forget to check some easy tips to boost Windows’ performance.

If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, just let us know in the comments below.

WDAGUtilityAccount: What is it & Should you Disable it?

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Users have always been used to finding the admin and the usual local accounts on their PCs, but some users are curious about the WDAGUtilityAccount on the list of user accounts.

If you are wondering what this user account is, this guide will show you everything you need to know about it.

What is WDAGUtilityAccount?

The WDAGUtilityAccount is a user account used by the Windows Defender Application Guard (WDAG), and it’s part of Microsoft Edge and Office 365.

It is mainly used for private browsing and opening any website or link you try to access in a virtualized sandbox, thus isolating your browsing session from your desktop and user account.

How do I enable or disable the WDAGUtilityAccount?

1. Use the Windows features

  1. Press the Windows key, type turn features, and select Turn Windows features on or off.
    turn windows
  2. Check the Microsoft Defender Application Guard box to enable it, or uncheck it to disable it.
  3. Now, click the OK button.
    ms defender wdagutilityaccount
  4. Finally, wait for your PC to process the request and restart your PC to effect the changes.

One of the quickest ways to enable or disable the WDAGUtilityAccount is via the Windows Features. However, it must be mentioned that it is advisable to leave the default settings at it is.

2. Use the Computer Management feature

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Computer Management option.
    computer management
  2. Navigate to the path below in the left pane: System Tools > Local Users and Groups > Users
  3. Now, double-click the WDAGUtilityAccount option to open its properties.
    users wdagutilityaccount
  4. Finally, check the box for Account is disabled or change the Full name to disable it.
    accounts

You can enable or disable the user account on your PC easily. However, it is advisable not to make changes to the properties. This is especially true when renaming the account, as this can make your PC vulnerable to threats.

How can I check if WDAGUtilityAccount is enabled?

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin wdagutilityaccount
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter: net user
  3. Now, check the listed user accounts.
    net user

Another option is to use the Computer Management tool by following the steps below:

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Computer Management option.
    computer management
  2. Follow the path below in the left pane: System Tools > Local Users and Groups > Users
  3. Now, double-click the WDAGUtilityAccount option.
    users wdagutilityaccount
  4. You will see if the account is active in the new properties window.

If the account is unavailable on the list of accounts, it is disabled.

With this, we can conclude this guide on the WDAGUtilityAccount feature on your PC. It is essential to mention that there is no way to delete this account on your PC, as it is a system feature.

Similarly, if your PC won’t let you add new user accounts, check our detailed guide to fix it. We also have a guide on how to manage users and groups, so don’t miss it.

To learn more about the Sandbox feature, we also have a guide on how to configure Windows Sandbox, so don’t miss it.

Feel free to let us know your experience with this feature in the comments below.

How to Fix Windows 10 Stuck in Boot Loop After Reset

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

The introduction of additional mobile-like recovery options on Windows was more than welcome. Now, instead of reaching for a clean reinstallation, you can reset your system to factory values while retaining personal files.

However, what happens when the go-to resolution of an issue becomes the problem itself? Namely, many reports state that the system reset inflicted the boot loop in Windows 10.

Fortunately, this neverending ache has a solution (or multiple solutions even), so follow the steps we enlisted below.

How do I fix Windows 10 being stuck in the reset boot loop?

1. Enter Safe mode

  1. When the Windows logo appears during the startup, press and hold the Power button until the PC shuts down.
  2. Power on the PC and repeat the procedure 3 times.
  3. The fourth time you start the PC, the Advanced recovery menu should appear.
  4. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
  5. Now, select the Startup Settings option.
  6. Next, click Restart.
  7. Finally, when your PC restarts, press the corresponding key to Enable Safe Mode.

Note: Once there, if the system won’t boot into Safe mode, we encourage you to go to the final step. Additionally, try backing up your data. 

2. Disable Auto-restart and run SFC

  1. While in the Safe mode, type Advanced in the Search bar.
  2. Next, open View advanced system settings.
  3. Under the Startup and Recovery section, open Settings.windows 10 reset stuck in boot loop
  4. Uncheck the Automatically restart box and confirm changes.

Another step we can suggest is running the System Files Checker. This should resolve the issues that might’ve caused the system to crash. It’s a go-to tool to resolve the corruption of system files.

Follow these steps to run SFC:

  1. Open Command Prompt as admin.
  2. In the command line, type the command below and hit Enter: sfc/scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to finish and restart your PC.

3. Repair Startup

  1. Forcibly shutdown PC 3 times like in Step 2.
  2. Click Troubleshoot.
  3. Now, choose Advanced options.
  4. Then click Startup repair.
  5. Wait for the diagnostic tool to fix the boot sector.

4. Use Tenorshare Windows Boot Genius

When using good software that will help solve common issues related to the Windows boot loop, you should use Tenorshare Windows Boot Genius.

As a multi-functional boot recovery software, you can safely boot your device when nothing else seems to work and keep a backup and restore the Windows operating system if needed.

Making sure that you’ll not lose your data in the process is equally important. Therefore, Temorshare Windows Boot Genius can recover any lost data, even from an unbootable hard disk.

Moreover, this software will repair other common errors, such as the blue screen often caused by a virus or a corrupted file.

⇒ Get Tenorshare Boot Genius

 5. Use a bootable drive for a manual repair

  1. Create a bootable drive on an alternative PC.
  2. Plug in the USB or insert the DVD and restart your PC.
  3. Enter the BIOS settings.
  4. Next, set USB as the primary boot device.
  5. When Windows 10 files are loaded, click Repair your computer at the bottom.
  6. Open Troubleshoot and select Advanced options.
  7. Next, select Command Prompt.
  8. In the command line, type the following commands and press Enter after each: BOOTREC /FIXMBR BOOTREC /FIXBOOT BOOTREC /RebuildBcd 

6. Format everything and reinstall Windows 10

Finally, if none of the previous steps proved fruitful, performing a clean reinstallation is the last step we can suggest. The likely culprit for this and similar occurrences in the system upgrade.

If you’ve upgraded to Windows 10 over Windows 7 or 8, many different things can go awry. Including these uncalled boot loops, which are rather hard to resolve. A clean installation is the best way to get a hold of Windows 10.

We explored how to reinstall Windows 10 clean in our article, so check it out. We also have a guide on what to do if PC is stuck on boot screen, so don’t miss it.

This issue is similar to the error code 0xc0000001 on Windows 11, but we covered it in another guide, so don’t miss it.

And, as a final note, we encourage you to post questions or suggestions in the comments below.

Wsappx: What is it & How to Fix its High CPU Usage

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

Wsappx is an essential service on Windows PC that is important in the smooth running of the Microsoft Store. However, some users are complaining that Wsappx is registering high CPU usage for some reason.

This is even more baffling, as it consumes the PC resources with the Microsoft Store running. Thankfully, this high CPU usage issue can be fixed quickly, and we will show you how to go about it in this guide.

What is Wsappx?

Wsappx is a vital service used by your PC to control the activities of the Windows Store. This process helps the Windows Store to carry out the installation, update, and removal of apps.

Wsappx has two sub-processes: Client License Service (ClipSVC) and AppX Deployment Service (AppXSVC). ClipSVC is responsible for licensing and protecting the Windows Store apps against piracy.

AppXSVC, on the other hand, takes care of the deployment of apps. Hence, the Wsappx process helps to keep the Microsoft Store working as it should.

Why is Wsappx taking so much CPU?

Below are some of the reasons Wsappx registers high CPU usage on your PC:

  • Presence of malware: Viruses can disguise as theWsappx process on your PC to consume its resources. In this case, you need to scan for malware with Microsoft Defender or top-notch antivirus software.
  • Outdated PC: An outdated operating system is another known cause of this issue. This can cause the Windows Store app to misbehave, leading to a spike in your CPU usage. Again, you can fix this by updating your PC.
  • Issues with Windows Store: In some cases, this issue might occur because the Windows Store ran into a problem. The solution is to disable the Store app or uninstall and reinstall it.

How do I fix Wsappx’s high CPU usage?

1. Scan for malware

  1. Press the Windows key, type virus, and select Virus & threat protection.
    virus wsappx high cpu
  2. Click Scan options.
    scan option
  3. Now, select the Full Scan option and click the Scan now button.
    scan now
  4. Finally, wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.

If you want to perform a deeper scan to fix the Wsappx high CPU usage, we recommend using a third-party antivirus in TotalAV. This software digs deep into your PC to eliminate even the most hidden malware.

Also, it takes a no-nonsense stand against viruses and detects and removes them before they can harm your PC. TotalAV might just be all you need to keep your PC secure online and offline.

⇒ Get TotalAV

2. Update your PC

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Update & Security.
    update and wsappx high cpu
  2. Click the Check for updates button.
    check for
  3. Finally, wait for the scan to complete and install any available updates.

Windows updates are essential for keeping the apps and processes on your PC running smoothly. Hence, if your PC is outdated, Wsappx might register high CPU usage.

The quickest way out of this is to update your PC to the latest version.

Experiencing disk spikes caused by WSAPPX as well? Read the dedicated guide on WSAPPX high disk usage to reduce excessive reads and writes.

3. Stop automatic store app updates

  1. Launch the Microsoft Store app on your PC and click the three vertical dots.
  2. Select the Settings option.
    settings
  3. Now, toggle the switch under Update apps automatically backward to disable it.
    update apps wsappx high cpu

Sometimes, the Wsappx high CPU usage issue can be because the Microsoft Store is trying to update apps in the background. Therefore, you need to disable this feature to control the Store app resource usage.

4. Disable Windows Store

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type gpedit.msc, and click the OK button.
    gpedit
  2. Navigate to the path below in the left pane: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components
  3. Now, double-click the Store option in the right pane.
    store
  4. Next, double-click and Turn off the Store application.
    turn off wsappx high cpu
  5. Finally, tick the Enabled radio button and click OK to save the changes.
    enabled

After doing this, you should restart your PC and check if the issue persists.

5. Reinstall Windows Store

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Windows PowerShell (Admin) option.
    powershell admin
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter to know the package’s full name: Get-AppxPackage *WindowsStore* | Select Name, PackageFullName
    get wsappx high cpu
  3. Next, copy the Microsoft Store’s PackageFullName.
    package name
  4. Now, type the command (Replace PackageFullName with the value copied in step 3) below and hit Enter to remove Microsoft Store: Remove-AppxPackage -Package PackageFullName
    remove package
  5. Then, restart your PC and launch PowerShell as admin again.
  6. Finally, type the command below and hit Enter to reinstall Microsoft Store: Add-AppxPackage -register "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\*Microsoft.WindowsStore*\AppxManifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode
    install wsappx high cpu

That is all there is to fix the Wsappx high CPU usage issue. We believe you have everything you need to fix this issue in this guide, and you only need to follow the steps therein carefully.

If you are facing other issues, like Service Host SysMain High Disk Usage on your PC, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

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

Critical Service Failed BSoD on Windows 10: Fix & Causes

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Blue Screen of Deaths are somewhat serious issues, and one of those errors is Critical Service Failed. This can cause many problems, as it can prevent you from booting into your PC normally.

In this guide, we will show you the surefire ways to fix this issue and help restore normalcy on your PC.

What is the cause of critical service failed?

Below are some of the factors that can cause critical service failed error:

  • Outdated drivers: One of the major causes of this issue is an outdated or incompatible driver. You can fix this quickly by performing a system restore.
  • Corrupt system files: A faulty system file is another potential cause of this issue. This is especially true if your startup files are broken. The solution is to repair and restore these corrupt system files.

After discussing the potential causes of this issue, below are some of its examples:

  • Critical System Failure Windows 10 – BSoD caused by Critical System Failure is especially common in Windows 10.
  • Critical Service Failed loop – This error usually doesn’t appear just once, as you might get stuck in the loop of BSoDs caused by the Critical System Failure.
  • Windows 10 Critical Process died on boot – It’s also common for this problem to appear right after you boot your computer, but it can also appear later.
  • Critical_service_failed Windows Server 2012 – Windows Server 2012 is, along with Windows 10, a Windows OS that has the most problems with this error.
  • HP Critical Service failed – HP’s laptops are known to have this issue sometimes. More than laptops from other manufacturers.

How can I fix the Critical Service Failure BSoD error?

1. Perform a System Restore from Safe Mode

  1. Restart your PC and shut it down forcibly when the manufacturer logo shows. Repeat this thrice to bring up the Advanced recovery menu.
  2. Select the Troubleshoot option.
    troubleshoot critical service failed
  3. Now, click on Advanced Options.
    advanced options
  4. Next, choose Startup Settings.
    startup settings
  5. Click the Restart button and wait for your computer to restart.
    restart critical service failed
  6. When your computer restarts, press the corresponding key to Enable Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.
    enable safe
  7. After your PC boots successfully, press the Windows key + R, type rstrui.exe, and click OK.
    rstrui critical service failed
  8. Now, select the Next button.
    next
  9. Choose a restore point and click the Next button.
    restore point
  10. Finally, click the Finish button to confirm the action.
    finish critical service failed

System Restore is a recovery feature in the Windows operating system that allows you to restore your PC to an earlier state. 

So, if you are facing a Critical Service Failed error after updating your PC or drivers, you can use this tool to restore normalcy.

2. Repair Windows 10 using Windows Install Media

  1. Create and insert a bootable media and boot your PC from the drive. If your PC does not boot from the drive automatically, you need to enter BIOS and change the boot drive.
  2. When your PC boots from the drive, enter your language and other information and click Next.
    language
  3. Now, select Repair your computer in the bottom left corner.
    repair computer
  4. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
    advanced 1
  5. Finally, click the Automatic Repair option and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.
    automatic repair critical service failed

The Windows Install Media also includes repair options. This can help you fix many issues, including the Critical Service Failed Blue Screen of Death issue.

3. Use a dedicated tool

You can try to diagnose the problem yourself, but this may take time. An easier way to troubleshoot BSoDs errors is to use a dedicated third-party tool.

4. Refresh your Windows 10

  1. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 in Solution 1.
  2. Select the Reset this PC.
    reset pc
  3. Now, choose Keep my files.
    windows 10 critical process died on boot
  4. You might be asked to insert Windows 10 USB or DVD during this process, so make sure you have it and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

Another excellent solution to the Critical Service Failed issue is to reset your PC to default. Note that refreshing Windows 10 will remove any third-party software you have installed, but it will save your files and settings.

So before doing this, it’s not a bad idea to create a backup just in case.

5. Perform a clean reinstallation

If the solutions above fail to fix this BSoD issue, you might need to reinstall your Windows 10. While this is not a desirable solution, it might be the only option for salvaging your PC.

To know everything you need to do this, check our detailed guide to perform a reinstall of Windows 10.

With this, we can conclude this guide on how to fix the Critical Service Failed error. Hopefully, you won’t have to get to the last solution to this issue.

If you are facing another BSoD in Critical Process Died on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to fix this issue.

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

Failed to Create D3D Device: 6 Easy Solutions You Can Use

Posted on by John Nedelcu

Launch errors are too familiar for gamers as if the game senses our desire to play and refuses to give us what we seek. So is the case with the Failed to create D3D device or the less common but equally annoying Failed to create D3D9 device error.

Both of these errors are being reported by players launching games through Steam, and it seems to be isolated to only a few titles, including Left 4 Dead 2, CS: GO, Borderlands 1 & 2, Portal, and Rocket League.

Luckily, the route you’ll need to take is the same to fix both D3D and D3D9 errors, as they have a common cause. So, we will go through the usual troubleshooting steps when you see these errors.

What causes the D3D error?

The D3D Error is often a reference to a DirectX Error, precisely a Direct3D error. Several factors can cause a Direct3D error, including:

  1. Outdated or incorrect drivers – Ensure you have the most current drivers installed for your graphics card.
  2. Insufficient system resources – Your system might need more memory or processing power to run the game.
  3. Software conflicts – Other software running in the background can interfere with the game and cause a Direct3D error.
  4. DirectX version issues – The game may require a newer version of DirectX than what you have installed on your system.
  5. Corrupted or damaged game files – Sometimes, the files can become corrupt or damaged, causing the Direct3D error.

With the causes covered, let us explore some fixes you should apply.

How do I fix Failed to create D3D or D3D9 device error?

Before you even venture into our recommendations, you should restart the computer. A restart is a general fix but may be effective. It will force a few processes to stop and may help fix a failed to create d3d device error.

1. Verify the integrity of game files

  1. Launch Steam, right-click on the problematic game, and go to Properties.
    failed to create d3d device
  2. Click on the Local Files tab, then click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.

Valve has kindly baked into Steam the option to check if your game files have become corrupted or if something is missing from the game installation directory.

This can help if your antivirus or antimalware software has decided to block or quarantine a file.

If the Failed to create D3D device or D3D9 device errors have been caused by an error of the graphics driver, giving the system a fresh start might solve the issue.

2. Update Windows to the latest version

  1. Open Settings using the keyboard shortcut Win + i.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Click on Check for updates.
    failed to create d3d device

Keeping your Windows operating system up to date is essential because you benefit from the latest bug fixes and security updates.

Sometimes, these updates include compatibility patches which can fix mishaps like the Failed to create D3D device or failed to create D3D9 device errors.

3. Update your graphics drivers

3.1 Updating Nvidia graphics cards

  1. Right-click on your desktop and select Nvidia Control Panel.
  2. Take note of your driver indicated in the Control Panel.
    failed to create d3d device
  3. Now head over to the Nvidia website, and hit the Drivers tab.
    failed to create d3d device
  4. Fill up the form provided and hit Search to get your driver.
  5. Now hit download, double-click the downloaded file to launch the installer, and follow the prompts.
  6. Restart your computer.

3.2 Updating AMD graphics cards

  1. Right-click on your desktop and select AMD Radeon Software.
    failed to create d3d device
  2. Under Driver & Software, click on Check for Updates.
  3. Install the new driver and reboot.

One of the best ways to fix the failed to create D3D, or D3D9 device error is to update your graphics driver.

These errors are caused by a problem with the graphics card or its driver, so a driver update will usually be the solution.

To go one step beyond, we strongly recommend performing a clean install of the graphics driver or using a utility like DDU to remove the graphics driver altogether before installing the new one.

Note: If you use DDU to uninstall your graphics driver, you must go to the graphics card manufacturer’s website and manually download either the driver or the graphics software (GeForce Experience or AMD Adrenalin).

Besides the solutions presented above, you can also try specialized software like Outbyte Driver Updater to scan your device for outdated, damaged, or missing drivers and automatically update them with brand-new versions.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Set game launch options

  1. Open Steam, Right-click on the game, and select Properties.
    failed to create d3d device
  2. On the General Tab, select Set Launch Options and type -w 1920 -h 1080.
    failed to create d3d device
  3. Click OK.
  4. Finally, launch the game.

Note: instead of 1920 and 1080, use your monitor’s native resolution.

This will force the game to launch with the specified resolution. Unfortunately, some of these games are a bit older, so they don’t always cooperate with newer hardware and higher resolutions.

This can cause a problem when the game tries to launch with a low resolution, so you will need to force the desired resolution.

5. Run the game in compatibility mode

  1. Navigate to your game installation folder, right-click on the executable, and select Properties.
  2. Click on the Compatibility tab.
  3. Click Run this program in compatibility mode for and manually select an older version of Windows to run the game.

Once you have enabled compatibility mode, you can launch the game, which should clear the Failed to create D3D or D3D9 device error.

6. Enable services

  1. Press Windows + R, then type msconfig and hit Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab.
  3. Make sure that all Nvidia or AMD services are enabled. (If you are unsure which services these are, click on Enable All).
    failed to create d3d device
  4. Reboot your PC

In pursuing more performance, some users disable certain services that they deem unimportant. Still, we cannot stress this enough: you should never disable these if you are not 100% sure of the changes you are making, as this could lead to game crashes or, even worse, system instability.

These fixes will help you fix both Failed to create D3D device and Failed to create D3D9 device errors when launching games on Steam.

If you encounter issues with Steam games, let us know in the comments section below.

Unable to Initialize Steam API: 4 Quick Ways to Connect to it

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Even though Steam is one of the most used and appreciated gaming platforms available on the market, some users cannot initialize Steam API.

This error can appear for a variety of reasons. Because of the wide range of factors, this guide will explore some of the most valuable fixes based on our team’s research and user feedback.

Before discovering the best methods to try if you encounter today’s issue, let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons why it can occur.

Why am I unable to initialize Steam API?

The Steam API initialization failure could be due to several reasons, such as:

  • Incorrect API key – If the API key provided is incorrect, then the Steam API init will fail.
  • Network connectivity issues – If there is a network problem, it can prevent the Steam API from initializing successfully.
  • Server-side issues – If the Steam servers are down or undergoing maintenance, the API init will fail.
  • Third-party library issues – If you use a third-party library to access the Steam API and there is an issue with the library, the init will fail.
  • Configuration issues – If there are any configuration issues in the implementation, the Steam API init may fail.
  • Firewall – Your Windows firewall settings might be causing Steam to refuse the Internet connection.

What can I do if I’m unable to initialize Steam API?

Before you start with our recommended solutions, you should verify that you have a good internet connection. This may be a simple check that resolves the entire problem.

1. Run Steam with administrator privileges

  1. Find the Steam executable file on your Windows PC, right-click, and then click on Properties.
  2. Choose the Compatibility tab in that window, and check the box next to the option Run this program as an administrator.
  3. Finally, click on Apply, then on OK, and accept all the pop-ups that appear to grant administrator privileges.

2. Edit your Windows firewall and antivirus settings

  1. Use the following keyboard shortcut to open Windows Settings: Windows + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. From the left window pane, select Windows Security, then click on Firewall & Network Protection from the right side of the window.
  4. Scroll down until you find Allow an app through firewall, then click on it.
  5. After choosing this option, you must find Steam (or the problematic game) in the list and set it to pass through the firewall by marking the option for Public and Private.
  6. Click OK to allow your computer to restart and apply these settings.

3. Opt out of the beta testing program offered by Steam

  1. Press on the Windows key, type Steam, and open the app.
  2. Click on Steam from the top-left corner of the window.
  3. Go to Settings.
  4. Remain on the Account tab, then under Beta participation, click on the Change button from the right side of the window.
  5. Look at the Beta participation option, drop-down menu, and select NONE – Opt out of all beta programs.
  6. Click on OK.
  7. Exit Steam entirely by clicking on the Steam option at the top left of your screen and then choosing Exit.
  8. Now you want to close all the processes running on your system that work with Steam. To do so, right-click on your Windows Taskbar and choose Task Manager.
  9. This will open up a window that allows you to see all the running processes on your Windows PC.
  10. Click on the More details button found at the bottom of the window.
  11. Next, you’ll need to search for all the processes related to Steam (Steam.exe, Steam Client Bootstrapper, or GameOverlayUI.exe).
  12. For each of them, click on End Task.
  13. Finally, you can restart the Steam platform and see if the game runs.

If you cannot initialize Steam API, opting out of the beta testing program offered by Steam is a solution that seems to work in several cases.

4. Contacting Steam support

Contacting Steam support can help if you cannot initialize the Steam API because they may be able to provide additional information or assistance that you cannot find through other means.

Steam support can help identify the root cause of the problem and provide a solution. Also, it may be able to provide additional information or guidance on how to resolve the issue.

So, if you cannot initialize steam API, go to the official website, chat with an agent, or leave a message.

Note icon NOTE
If this method didn’t work in your case, it is recommended that you still opt out of the Beta programs and close all running Steam applications to try the next solution.

As you might already know, Steam Web API incorporates multiple application program interfaces that help to retrieve various Steam Data.

You’ll get a Steam API key running the app with your account. It is dedicated to your account and enables external programs to act on a Steam account’s behalf. Keep in mind that this is how trade bots are created.

Remember to remove any Steam executable file and Steam games from the Windows Firewall and the one found in your antivirus software.

So, these are the best solutions that work around most cases. However, if you cannot initialize Steam API, ensure that our today’s guide will have your back.

Lastly, please let us know how these solutions worked for you using the comment section below.

Norton Won’t Uninstall: 5 Ways to Remove it by Force

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Users who intend to add a new antivirus utility to Windows 10 should always uninstall the currently installed antivirus package first.

Norton Antivirus is one utility that many users find comes pre-installed with Windows 10. Thus, users often need to remove it before they add an alternative utility.

Sometimes, you can’t remove an app from the Control Panel for good. This is how you can uninstall Norton Antivirus on Windows 10.

Why won’t Norton let me uninstall it?

There are several reasons why Norton might not allow you to uninstall:

  1. Norton is still running – If Norton is still running in the background, it can block the uninstallation process. 
  2. Corrupted installation – If the Norton installation is corrupted, it may prevent you from uninstalling the software. 
  3. System restrictions – If your computer is part of a network managed by an administrator, the administrator may have set restrictions that prevent you from uninstalling Norton.
  4. Incorrectly uninstalled previous version – If you previously uninstalled a version of Norton incorrectly, it can leave remnants on your system that prevent you from uninstalling the new version.

The solutions we recommend below should help you resolve this issue quickly.

How can I uninstall Norton on Windows 10?

1. Remove Norton Antivirus with a third-party uninstaller

If you uninstall Norton Antivirus from Programs and Features, the program will be removed, which won’t erase all software residual files and registry entries. 

Those leftovers can generate installation issues for replacement antivirus utilities. A third-party uninstaller software or Norton removal tool erases leftover files and registry entries.

The tool is a replacement and a supplement to the built-in functionality in Windows. First, it runs the built-in uninstaller for the desired program and then scans for leftover data.

This is extremely useful when a program won’t uninstall or you have doubts that a program has not been completely uninstalled.

IObit Uninstaller

Erase unwanted and stubborn apps alongside their leftovers with just a few clicks.
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2. Uninstall Norton Antivirus via Programs and Features

  1. Press Windows + X, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
    norton won't uninstall
  2. Select the Norton Antivirus software from the program list and click Uninstall/Change.
    norton won't uninstall
  3. Click the Yes button to confirm.
  4. A Norton uninstaller window will open that might ask if you want to retain some of the Norton antivirus features. Click No thanks to decline.
  5. Click the Next button on the uninstaller window to remove Norton Antivirus.
  6. Finally, restart Windows after uninstalling Norton Antivirus.

Uninstalling Norton Antivirus via the Control Panel might leave some leftover files behind. As such, check for remaining Norton folders with File Explorer.

Users might find some leftover folders: Norton Antivirus, Norton Personal Firewall, Norton Internet Security, and Norton SystemWorks.

You must manually delete any of the above folders in File Explorer by selecting them and pressing the Delete button.

3. Use Norton’s dedicated tool

  1. 1. Get the Norton Remove and Reinstall tool from the official website.

  2. 2. Next, right-click the NrnR.exe and select Run as administrator to open Norton Antivirus.

  3. 3. Click the Agree button.

  4. 4. Then click Advanced Options and select the Remove Only option.

  5. 5. Press the Remove button to confirm.

  6. 6. The utility will then prompt users to restart. Click the Restart Now button to do so.

    7. If you’re looking to uninstall the Norton Antivirus from your Windows 10 device, and cannot do it using Control Panel, we recommend the Norton Remove and Reinstall tool for Windows.

    This is a tool specially created by Norton to help you out when you want to remove the software. It completely uninstalls the Norton currently installed and restarts your computer.

    By using this tool, you ensure a clean and complete removal of the Norton program from your device, without any leftover files on your device.

If you’re still encountering issues with Norton uninstallation, consider using the Norton Power Eraser to scan for and remove deeply embedded threats that might be interfering with the process.

4. Uninstall Norton Antivirus in Safe Mode

  1. First, hold the Shift key and select the Restart option on Windows 10’s Start menu.
  2. Then users can select a Troubleshoot option after Windows reboots.
  3. Next, select Advanced options to open further options.troubleshoot advanced options
  4. Select Startup Settings, and then press the Restart button.delete norton in safe mode
  5. After the restart, press the 4 key to select Enable Safe Mode.
  6. Then, users can remove Norton Antivirus in Safe Mode via Programs and Features.
  7. Lastly, restart Windows 10 after removing Norton Antivirus in Safe Mode.

Usually, the Safe Mode option exists to help you start your PC, bypassing problems that prevent you from booting normally. It is also helpful in this case.

If Windows 10 Safe Mode option is not working on your PC, check our detailed guide for quick solutions.

5. Run the Uninstall troubleshooter

  1. Click Download troubleshooter on the troubleshooter’s page to download it.
    norton won't uninstall
  2. Double-click the downloaded MicrosoftProgram_Install_and_Uninstall.meta.
    norton won't uninstall
  3. Press the Next button.
  4. Select the Uninstalling option.
  5. Then select Norton Antivirus on the software list.
  6. Finally, click Next to go through the troubleshooter’s suggested resolutions.

The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when blocked from installing or removing programs. It also fixes corrupted registry keys.

You can also uninstall it with System Restore by selecting a restore point that predates the software’s installation date. But you’ll also uninstall everything that was installed after that point.

Thus, instead of a System Restore, it is best to use the uninstaller we recommended above or any of these best tools to remove stubborn software. Pay particular attention to processes like the windoc.exe file which could be causing issues with uninstallation.

However, if you have changed your mind and want to give Norton another chance, check out our interesting and detailed review of Norton 360 Deluxe to understand how it can protect all your devices.

So, these are the simplest methods to uninstall Norton Antivirus. Lastly, in the comments section below, you can tell us which one you found the easiest.

Antivirus/Firewall Blocking Email: Check & Fix in Minutes

Posted on by Andrew Wafer

Most antivirus programs come with integrated mail support and can scan emails within your existing accounts, regardless of what client you’re using. But, can a firewall block emails?

While this security feature is extremely important, sometimes it can bring further problems. For example, without any apparent reason, the antivirus can block your emails. Or you may struggle with a firewall blocking emails.

Now, it wouldn’t be the first time that a firewall is blocking specific features of an app. Even so, this doesn’t happen to all email clients. Some of them are sufficiently smart not to get blocked by antivirus or firewalls.

So before starting the tweaking with your antivirus, you should consider trying a faster and safer e-mail client that comes with all the necessary tools.

⇒ Get Mailbird

How do I know if my firewall is blocking emails?

And coming back to our problem, instead of scanning for possible threats, the antivirus or firewall might block emails.

Have a look at other similar issues reported by our readers:

  • Bitdefender, Norton, Kaspersky, McAfee, AVG Email Shield blocking Outlook emails
  • Avast Mail Shield blocks email – Users have mostly complained about Avast blocking IMAP email.
  • Firewall blocking email attachments
  • Fortinet, Sophos firewall blocking emails
  • Firewall blocking incoming/outgoing email

In that situation, you need to find a way to re-enable the email client functionality and set a new rule within the antivirus firewall or add an exclusion for the email app you’re using.

These operations can be completed differently depending on the antivirus software that’s being used.

We’ll show you how to check if the firewall is blocking emails as well as what steps to take in order to allow emails through your antivirus’ firewall for the most popular Windows-based security tools.

How do I allow emails through my firewall and antivirus?

1. Fix firewall blocking emails: ESET Antivirus

  1. Open your ESET antivirus.
  2. Click on the Setup button and then on Advanced setup.
  3. Expand Web and email, click Email client protection and expand Email Clients.
  4. From the Email To Scan section, disable Received email, Sent email, and Read email.
  5. Click OK to save the changes and exit the Advanced setup.

If ESET antivirus is blocking your e-mails, you can tweak the scanning settings from the software as indicated in the steps above.

2. Fix firewall blocking emails: Bitdefender

  1. Open the Bitdefender user interface.
  2. From the left panel click on the Protection icon.
  3. Then, access the View Features link.
  4. From the Firewall section, click on the Settings icon.add exclusions bitdefender
  5. Go to the Rules tab and click on Add to create a new Firewall exception.
  6. Load the executable file for the Email client and allow access to it.
  7. Complete the other field by using on-screen prompts.
  8. Save your changes and then restart your Windows 10 system.

Remember: on Bitdefender you can also add a website or any other similar source (if, for example, you are using an online Email client) to the Whitelist by following:

  1. From Bitdefender, go to Protection.
  2. Click on Web Protection and from the Settings window click on the Whitelist link.
  3. Just enter the address of the blocked website or webpage and click on Add.
  4. Save your changes in the end and restart your computer.

If Bitdefender is blocking your Outlook client, make sure you add it to the exception list as shown in the steps above.

3. Fix firewall blocking emails: Norton

  1. Launch your Norton app.
  2. From the main user interface, click on the Options button.
  3. Then, access the Email link.
  4. You can now disable the email scanning feature by unchecking the Scan incoming Email and Scan outgoing Email fields.
  5. Save your changes.

These settings will disable email scanning when emails are blocked by Norton without apparent reasons. However, you can try to add a new rule within Firewall, as explained:

  1. Open Norton.
  2. From there click on Advanced.
  3. Select Firewall from the left panel.
  4. Click on the Settings icon from the Application Blocking row.
  5. Select Add application and add the executable file for your email client.
  6. Save everything and enjoy.

When Norton is blocking incoming email, disable the mail scanning feature from Norton as shown in the steps above.

4. Fix firewall blocking emails: Kaspersky

  1. Open Kaspersky and from the upper-right corner click on Settings.
  2. Under Protection, you can select the Mail Anti-Virus option.
  3. Now, from the main window click on the Settings button (located under the Security level).
  4. Switch to the Additional tab and choose how you want to set Kaspersky to scan your emails and your email clients.
  5. Save these changes and enjoy.

Should Kaspersky be blocking the email server tweak its settings for e-mail scanning as shown in the steps above.

5. Fix firewall blocking emails: AVG

  1. Open AVG Internet Security.
  2. From the top-right corner click on the Menu button.
  3. Go to Settings and choose Components.avg blocking emails
  4. Scroll down to the Firewall feature and head towards Customize.
  5. Under Network Profiles choose to change the network from Public to Private, or the other way around depending on what’s currently set on your antivirus.
  6. In the end, you should be able to access your emails once again.

6. Fix firewall blocking emails: Avira

  1. On your computer launch the search field – click on the Cortana icon.
  2. In the search field enter Apps & features and click on the result with the same name.apps features windows 10
  3. From the Apps & Features window find the Avira entry.
  4. Right-click on Avira and choose Modify followed by Next.
  5. Uncheck the Mail Protection field and save your changes.

For Avira, you should customize the email settings within your email client because Avira cannot scan emails through an encrypted connection.

These settings might depend on each email program but the main idea is to: deactivate the option that uses encrypted SSL/TSL/STARTTLS connections under the incoming and outgoing server protocol.

Additionally, the following ports shouldn’t be used: 25 (SMTP), 143 (IMAP), and 110 (POP3).

7. Fix firewall blocking emails: Avast

  1. Run Avast on your computer.
  2. Click on Menu and select Settings.
  3. Access Components.
  4. Find the Mail Shield entry and access it (click on Customize).
  5. From there you can afterward choose how to configure this scanning engine.
  6. You can disable this shield or you can try to disable parts of it – such as SSL scanning, or sensitivity.
  7. Hopefully, after applying the new settings you will be able to access your emails once more.

In Avast you can add a new Firewall rule for your email client as followed:

  1. Run Avast and go to Protection.
  2. Click on the Firewall entry.
  3. From the bottom of the screen click on Application settings.
  4. Then, click on the New application rule.
  5. Just add the app you want to include in the Firewall exception list.

Avast works on shields and the mail scan feature is integrated within the shield. If the Avast mail shield blocks the email, you need to customize the Avast email shield as shown in the steps above.

In most situations, the steps from above should help you unlock your email messages after the Email app got blocked by your antivirus or firewall.

Besides, you can always check if the firewall is blocking a port or program on your PC.

Whatever problems you would have with your antivirus, you still need to secure your e-mail so you should also take a look at our list of the best e-mail scanning software.

Don’t forget to share your experience and your own observations with us and with other users.

Fix: The Specified User Does not Have a Valid Profile Error

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

The specified user does not have a valid profile error message typically appears in the context of an application or system that requires a user profile to function correctly.

The system cannot access the user profile required to perform the requested action, thus resulting in a user profile error.

If you have recently encountered the same error, here are a few quick fixes to help resolve the issue.

What causes The specified user does not have a valid profile error?

  • Corrupted user profile – The user profile may have become corrupted, preventing the system from accessing it correctly.
  • Missing user profile – The user profile may be missing or deleted, causing the system to throw this error.
  • Permission issues – The user may not have the necessary permissions to access the profile, or the profile may be protected by permissions that prevent the system from accessing it.
  • Authentication problems – The user may not be adequately authenticated, preventing the system from accessing the profile.
  • System or database issues – There may be underlying problems with the system or database that are causing the error.

It is essential to identify the root cause of the error to resolve it correctly. So, with that done, let us explore some resolutions.

How can I fix The specified user does not have a valid profile?

1. Quit the app

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. Under the Process tab, find the application giving you this error, select the process, and click on End Task.
    the specified user does not have a valid profile
  3. Now go to the Services tab. Look for any services related to the problematic application. Right-click on the service and select Stop.
  4. Close the Task Manager window and restart your computer.

If the specified user does not have a valid profile while trying to start a program, you might be able to fix the issue by disabling the application from the Task Manager.

2. Change Microsoft Store App location

  1. Press Windows + E to open Windows Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the path below:
    C:\ProgramFiles
  3. Next, right-click the Windows Apps folder and select Properties.
  4. Open the Security tab and click on the Advanced button.
    the specified user does not have a valid profile
  5. In the following dialogue box, click on Change beside the Owner section.
    Change Permissions WindowsApps Folder user does not have a valid profile error
  6. Type your username and click on Check names. If found, click on OK.
    the specified user does not have a valid profile
  7. Click on Apply and then on the OK button to save the changes. Then Close all the security and properties windows.
  8. Open File Explorer and go to the path below.
    C:\ProgramFiles\WindowsApps
  9. Look for the Windows Store folder. Right-click on the folder, select Cut and paste it into some other folder, such as Documents or any other folder in the C: drive, preferably.
  10. After the file is moved, open the moved folder and click the .exe file to run the program.
  11. If it was a permission-related error, the program should run without any error.

Windows Store apps are, by default, stored in the WindowsApps folder. If you see the error, The specified users does not have a valid profile while launching a Microsoft Store app, the folder may not have the required permission to run the app.

A workaround for this problem is to move the files of the app to a different folder on the hard drive. Begin with accessing the WindowsApp folder.

3. Disable startup apps

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. Go to the Startup tab, select all the apps that have Enabled as the status, and click on Disable.

Now restart your PC. Remember that certain applications aren’t available on this list, so you’ll have to disable them manually.

4. Remove third-party apps

  1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
    the specified user does not have a valid profile
  2. Search for the suspected troublesome app in the app list, click on it, and select Uninstall.
  3. Follow the wizard to complete the uninstallation.

Several users have reported some third-party apps as the cause for The specified user does not have a valid profile error. Users reported the following applications as the potential cause for this error:

  • CloudPaging Player
  • Creo Trial (3D CAD software)

Uninstaller software can completely remove any application on your PC without interfering with any other system functionality.

They are specifically created to uninstall stubborn software and have up-to-date tools to detect any lingering files left behind by regular uninstallations.

Some of the best uninstaller software out there also double as optimization tools, allowing you to clean your PC and scan for broken files.

The specified user does not have a valid profile error can be problematic, but you should be able to fix the problem by following one of these solutions.

Please let us know if you have a new solution not listed in this article in the comments below.

Fix: Password Protected Sharing not Turning Off on Windows

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

After installing the latest Windows 10 updates, many users reported being unable to turn off the password for protected sharing.

Password-protected sharing is a Windows 10 feature that stops other users from accessing shared files, printers, or public folders. Some users reported that the Off button wouldn’t stick when using this feature.

Other users were able to move the button to the Off position but reported that the settings didn’t change after restarting the computer. Here’s a series of solutions that should help you to fix this problem once and for all. If you’re using a newer OS, see how to turn off password protected sharing in Windows 11.

Table of contents

Why can’t I turn off password-protected sharing?

Below are some of the reasons the turn off password protected sharing is not working on your PC:

  • Wrong settings: If the password-protected sharing is off but still asking for a password, it might be because the registry value is still active. You can fix this quickly by modifying your registry.
  • Issues with the guest account: In some cases, this problem might be caused by the password in your guest account. The solution to this is to remove the password.

How do I turn off password protected sharing?

1. Turn off Password Protected Sharing from the Control Panel

  1. Click on the Start button and open the Control Panel
  2. Click on the Network and Sharing Center
    Surface Pro won't connect to WiFi Windows 10
  3. Click Change advanced sharing settings which you can find in the left side
    change advanced sharing settings control panel turn off password protected sharing
  4. Click the arrow next to All Networks to expand the section
    all networks advanced sharing settings can't turn off password protected sharing
  5. Select Turn off password protected sharing option under Password protected sharing
    turn off password protected sharing
  6. Click Save changes.

First, you can try to turn off the Password Protected Sharing from the Control Panel and see if it works properly. If you prefer sharing files through compressed folders, you can also password protect ZIP files in Windows 11 for added control.

2. Remove the Guest account password

  1. Open the Run box by pressing the Windows key + R on your keyboard, and type lusrmgr.msc , and hit Enter.
  2. In the Local Users and Groups box, click Users in the left pane.
  3. Now, right-click Guest and press Set Password…
    local users and groups settings can't turn off password protected sharing
  4. In the Set Password for Guest box that pops up, you need to leave the New Password and Confirm Password fields empty.
  5. Finally, click OK.

If method 1 does not work, you could have to remove the Guest account password. To do so, follow the steps above.

3. Remove Password Protected Sharing from User Accounts

  1. Open the Run box by pressing the Windows key + R on your keyboard, type control userpasswords2 in the box, and hit Enter.
  2. The User Accounts window will open.
    guest user account settings windows 10 I can't disable password protected sharing
  3. Under the Users for this computer section, select Guest, and click Reset Password…
  4. Leave the New Password and Confirm Password fields empty.
  5. Finally, click OK.

Alternatively, if you’re working with text-based content, you can password protect a Notepad file to prevent unauthorized edits or access.

4. Modify registry entries using the Registry Editor

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type regedit in the box, and hit Enter.
  2. The Registry Editor window will pop up > find this location in the left pane: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Lsa
  3. In the right pane, find the REG_DWORD type registry named everyoneincludeanonymous.
    everyoneincludeanonymous registry turn off password protected sharing
  4. Now, double-click on the registry and set the Value data to 1.
  5. Click OK and go to the next registry location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters
  6. Next, click on the parameters folder and find the REG_DWORD type registry named restrictnullsessaccess.
    restrictnullsessaccess settings turn off password protected sharing
  7. Double-click on the registry and set the Value data box to 0.
  8. Close the window and restart the computer.

We recommend modifying the registry entries manually, and being very careful while making these changes. A simple mistake could have dramatic impacts on your system.

5. Check the Password never expires on property

  1. Open the Run box by pressing the Windows key + R, type lusrmgr.msc in the box, and hit Enter.
  2. Select Users in the Local Users and Groups window, and right-click Guest > Properties. 
  3. In the Guest Properties window that pops up, check the box next to Password never expires.
    password never expires turn off password sharing on my PC
  4. Click Apply, followed by OK, and reboot your PC.

An alternative solution would be to change the password’s expiry status. For portable data, consider using USB stick password protection tools to secure files outside the network.

If you are able to remove the sharing security password, be aware that public folders and printers are now accessible to other devices. If you still want local protection, here’s how to password protect a folder in Windows 11.

If your folder can’t be shared on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to fix it for good.

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

A Fatal Error Occurred Creating a TLS Client Credential [Fix]

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

With the launch of the Windows 11 operating system, it is rare for users to face problems while launching programs on their computers.

However, with programs linked to a server, users often encounter the Fatal error occurred while creating a TLS client credentials on their system.

Error messages are usually not very explanatory, especially when they are cryptic. But what is even more frustrating is when the error doesn’t give a hint as to what the problem is.

This guide has been created to help you fix the fatal error that occurred while creating a TLS client credential error without losing your files, documents, and other data.

What is the TLS client credential?

The Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a protocol designed to provide secure communication over the Internet with end-to-end encryption, proof of integrity, and identity verification.

When a TLS connection is established, the server provides a certificate to the client. The client then validates the server’s identity by checking for an Internet security protocol known as Client TLS.

If the certificate doesn’t correspond to the protocol, you get the message Event ID 36871: A fatal error occurred while creating a TLS client credential. The internal error state is 10013.

Why does the error occur while creating a TLS client credential?

The reason behind this error is that the program is a client that needs a connection to a server. Though the internet would be working well, the client would not be able to decipher the code sent by the server.

This indicates an issue with the protocols. The statement of the error also points toward the TLS encryption protocol.

There is a need to decrypt some information that has been encrypted. The challenge is not knowing how to get the data back into a format where it can be read.

You may also encounter the Event ID 36871: A Fatal Error Occurred While Creating An SSL (client or server) Credential. The internal error state is 10011.

However, you don’t have to mistake it with the issue we’re dealing with here because it is a whole different issue that has to do with the email server.

There is also the Event ID 36871: A fatal error occurred while creating a TLS client credential RDP that is triggered because you can’t access the remote desktop from Windows Server 2012.

Many times, this information is stored in the system registry on a Windows computer. Some of the possible workarounds that you can try to fix this error are mentioned below.

What can I do if a fatal error occurs while creating a TLS client credential?

1. Enable the TLS 1.0 and 1.1 Protocols

  1. Press Windows + R keys and type in inetcpl.cpl into the Run dialog window, then hit Enter.
  2. In the Internet Properties window, click on the Advanced tab.
  3. From here, check both Use TLS 1.0 and Use TLS 1.1.
  4. Then, click Apply and OK.
  5. Reboot the device and see if the error persists.

Enabling TLS 1.0 and 1.1 protocols should fix the issue. However, if it does not work for you, move on to the next resolution.

2. Run the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R keys, type regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. On the User Account Control prompt, click Yes.
  3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SecurityProviders\SCHANNEL\Protocols\TLS 1.2\Client
  4. Go to the right pane, right-click on a free space, and hit New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  5. Name the value DisabledByDefault.
  6. Double-click the value and in the window that pops up, enter 0 for Value Data, then select OK.
  7. In the same way, create another value called Enabled and set the Value data to 1.
  8. Finally, exit the Registry Editor and reboot your PC.

Windows registry is a vital tool that helps you make changes to your computer’s settings. The registry editor’s role is to modify data such as file paths, windows titles, or other OS-critical settings.

The methods used in this guide should be enough to fix a fatal error occurred while creating a TLS client credential. The internal error state is 10013 issue.

TLS can be a pretty buggy sometimes and if you don’t really need it you can disable it all together to stop it from creating any issues.

You might also be interested in how to fix the Fatal Error Coordinator Returned-1. The highlighted guide will provide the solutions.

If you found this tutorial helpful, do let us know in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you.

Avast Virus Definitions Won’t Update: Why & How to Fix

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Avast is a popular antivirus solution and to keep the latest malware and adware out of your system, the virus definition updates automatically. However, several users reported the Virus definitions are not up to date error.

The full error reads:

Virus definitions are not up to date – release date was invalid date

This error can occur due to several reasons including corrupted installation files, a glitch in the antivirus solution or even some Windows issues.

If you are also troubled by this error, here are a few troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the Avast Antivirus not updating problem on your Windows 10 PC.

What can I do if Avast virus definition update failed?

1. Reinstall Avast

  1. Press the Windows key + R.
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and click OK to open Control Panel.
  3. Select Avast from the list.
  4. Click on Remove/Uninstall.
  5. Click on the Uninstall button on the setup screen. Follow on-screen instructions.
  6. Once uninstalled, download the newer version of Avast from the official website and proceed with the installation.

Reinstalling Avast may not be an ideal solution, but you probably have to do it anyway if the built-in repair function fails to repair the software. 

In some instances, you may also want to install an older version of the software until the bugs in the latest version are fixed.

⇒ Get back Avast Free Antivirus

2. Manually update Avast

2.1 Update Avast from the settings

  1. Launch Avast antivirus and click the menu icon.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. From the Settings menu, open the General tab.
  4. Select Update sub-tab.
  5. Click the Check for updates button. Wait for the process to complete.
  6. If there is an update pending, click on the available option to download and install the update.
  7. Once installed, reboot the computer and check if the error occurs again.

2.1 Update Avast from the Setup screen

  1. Click on Start and type control.
  2. Click on Control Panel to open it.
  3. Go to Programs and select Programs and Features.
  4. Select Avast from the list of installed apps.
  5. Click on Remove/Change.
  6. In the Avast Setup windows, click the Update button.
  7. Click Next and follow on-screen instructions to install updates.
  8. Reboot the computer and check for any improvements. 

Make sure to confirm your Avast definition version by going to the Avast website to see if you have the latest version installed.

3. Repair the Avast installation

3.1 Repair avast from the Troubleshooting menu

  1. Open Avast antivirus software.
  2. Click on the Menu icon and select Settings.
  3. Open the General tab.
  4. Click on Troubleshooting.
  5. In the Troubleshooting tab, click on Still having a problem.
  6. Next, click on Repair app. 
  7. Click Yes to confirm the action.

3.2 Repair avast from Control Panel

  1. Press the Windows key + R.
  2. Type control and click OK.
  3. In Control Panel, go to Programs, and select Programs and Features.
  4. Select Avast and click Uninstall/Remove.
  5. Click the Repair button.
  6. Click Next and follow the on-screen instructions.

The repair process can take some time. Once the scan is complete, go through the issues, and click on Resolve to fix the problem.

Once the fixes are applied, reboot the computer and relaunch Avast to see if the issue is resolved. This solution can actually fix most Avast problems so try it.

The Avast virus definition update failed issue can occur due to several reasons. However, Avast offers a built-in repair tool to fix common Avast issues.

If the issue persists, uninstall and reinstall the software to fix the problem. If the problem persists, consider choosing a better antivirus with unlimited license that you don’t need to renew.

Did you manage to fix Avast using our solutions? Do you have any other ideas? Share them in a comment below to help other users in the process.

Top 5 Invitation Software to Design Special Events Cards

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

Special occasion warrants special people. And what can be better than a self-designed invitation card asking friends and family to join you in your celebration and make the event even more special?

Check our recommendations for the best invitation software to create wedding, anniversary, and birthday cards like a pro in no time:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud Express – The best software to make wedding invitations
  • Canva – Editable wedding invitation templates free download (PDF & more)
  • CorelDraw Graphic Suite – Best wedding invitation software for creating professional invitations
  • EDraw Max – Excellent software for invitation card design
  • CardWorks by NCH – DIY wedding invitation software free download

How do I make an electronic wedding invitation for free?

Whether you want to design a wedding invitation or send invites for birthday celebrations, you will need two things: a creative mind and professional invitation design software.

There are many invitation software available that can help you to create professional-looking and stunning cards with a personal touch.

If you don’t want to download any software, you can make use of online invitation makers that are platform-independent and can also be used on a tablet.

Which software is used for making wedding cards?

Adobe Creative Cloud Express – Best software to make wedding invitations

What is the best Adobe program to create invitations? If you’re planning on making professional self-designed invitation cards, Adobe Creative Cloud Express is the best tool for the job.

The growing trend of avoiding generic invitation cards has a point if you want to make a statement.

Adobe Creative Cloud Express is a great option even for newbies since it requires the least amount of editing experience. It has a very simple user interface with countless invitation templates to choose from.

You may provide your own narration to introduce the event and enjoy cutting-edge colors and fonts.

There’s also an intuitive toolbar if you’d like to insert a button, video, or background slideshow to stand out from the crowd.

You may even spice up things with perfectly themed music when inspiration strikes. So, with this tool, you get to do more than invite some guests to the big event.

The invitation card may just turn into a huge wow for them, so how could they ever decline it?

Adobe Creative Cloud Express saves you precious time. Just stress less about getting the ideal custom-made invitation and focus on your other planning details and people who deserve your attention.

Adobe Creative Cloud Express

This tool will help you create the most exciting and original invites with minimum effort and knowledge.
Free trial Visit website

Canva – Editable wedding invitation templates free download (PDF & more)

If you don’t like the idea of installing software for creating an invitation card, you can always opt for online designing tools.

Canva is among the popular and best web-based software for wedding card design and it will greatly simplify the process.

For creating an invitation card, Canva has tons of ready-made templates that you can select and customize as per your preference.

Canva offers all the essential tools to edit any template including image cropping, adding shapes, and grids, and creating collages, lines, frames, charts, icons, etc.

You can also change the layout, add text, change the background, and upload your own images. Every aspect of the image can be customized by simply double-tapping on the element.

The transparency tool allows you to give depth to your design by adjusting the opacity and transparency. Other notable features offered by Canva include photo enhancer, photo blur, photo vignette, and sticker.

Canva is not just an invitation card designing tool but can be used for any light editing task with ease. Do give Canva a shot and test the feature to see if it is worth your money.

Canva

Shape your special day invitation wholeheartedly with this awesome free design editor.
Free Visit website

CorelDRAW – Professional invitation design software (vector-based)

CorelDraw

Whenever we talk about graphic and vector designing tools, we simply cannot leave out the ultimate software for invitation card design.

We’re talking about CorelDRAW’s Graphic Suite, of course, an excellent invitation software we cannot stop praising.

CorelDRAW is used by professionals in studios and elsewhere and can be used for anything that requires designing, including invitation cards.

It is a premium and expensive piece of software that cannot be bought separately but as a bundle consisting of 6 tools, fully optimized for Windows and ready to publish to WordPress directly.

CorelDRAW is the ideal professional invitation design software. It offers industry-acclaimed editing tools for graphics, illustration, layout, tracing, photo editing, and more.

It has a new LiveSketch tool if you want to create an illustration on your invitation, and the ability to apply and manage fills and transparencies creates complex layouts and designs.

Furthermore, you can apply custom-built color harmonies, get access to creative vector tools along with over 10000 clip art and 2000 high-resolution images, and more.

CorelDRAW

Creating invitations will be a breeze thanks to the most famous graphics editing software.
Free trial Visit website

EdrawMax – Excellent software for invitation card design

Mostly known for its technical design capacities, EDraw Max will surprise you in this department as well. Apart from organizational charts, science illustrations, floor plans, and network diagrams, it can also be used to create invitations.

The tool comes with over 10,000 built-in shapes and clip art that can be dragged and dropped on templates. You can easily create a custom invitation card using the Business Card type template.

In fact, EDraw Max has plenty of invitation card samples on its website that can be downloaded for inspiration.

Click on the Invitation card icon and start drag-and-drop of basic drawing shapes from the library. You can also add custom images and fill the shapes with color before saving and exporting the file.

Edraw Max is a multi-purpose diagram tool and it can also act as an incredible DIY wedding invitation software. However, it is not free, nor is it cheap.

In fact, it’s quite pricey, which makes it suited for professionals who will use it more often than occasional users.

EdrawMax

Explore a professional tool with 10,000 built-in shapes and clip art & build the perfect invite.
Free trial Visit website

CardWorks by NCH – DIY wedding invitation software free download

NCH Software makes some excellent computer software applications, and we are not surprised to find that NCH software also offers one of the best software for invitation card design.

CardWorks is the company’s lightweight utility that helps business owners create unique and high-quality business cards. It is premium software but can be downloaded for free for non-commercial use.

CardWorks comes loaded with tons of free wedding invitation templates word documents and more ready-made templates that can be edited and customized as per your need.

In fact, CardWorks has a template for every occasion. Plus, you can add text, change fonts, adjust template color settings, and more.

Once the invitation cards are ready, you can export them to a high-resolution PDF and then take a printout or give it to the print house.

CardWorks is low-cost feature-rich software that can be used by any business and doesn’t need any prior knowledge in card designing.

⇒ Get CardWorks

These are some of the best invitation software to create all kinds of invites for your wedding, anniversary as well as public gatherings, and dinner parties.

Some can even be used by a novice, while other tools are more suitable for professionals as they involve a learning curve and are also quite expensive.

If you want to learn to design invitation cards, start with free wedding invitation templates in word documents or take advantage of the free trials.

The only downside to the trial version of any tool is that the results will have a watermark. Do let us know your favorite software for invitation card design in the comments below.

How to Fix Surface Pro WiFi Issues & Main Causes

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Windows 10 is a cross-platform operating system, meaning that users of Surface Pro tablets also received a free upgrade.

But after upgrading to Windows 10, some users reported that they’re unable to connect to WiFi networks, so, hopefully, this article will help them solve the problem.

How to fix Surface Pro WiFi not Working?

1. Update your drivers

While this may seem like a simple solution, outdated drivers are the main reasons Surface Pro keeps disconnecting from WiFi.

You can update them easily using Windows 10’s built-in tools, but third-party driver updaters are far easier. For example, Outbyte Driver Updater is lightweight, fast, and efficient, all while being a portable program that doesn’t require prior installation.

Simply download it, launch it, let it scan your Surface Pro, and proceed to update and fix any old, missing, or damaged drivers with just one click.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Outbyte Driver Updater

Prevent your Surface Pro from encountering any more similar issues by choosing Outbyte Driver Updater instead of any other similar tool.
Free trial Visit website

2. Reset TCP/IP stack

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu button and open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: netsh int ip reset
  3. Reboot your PC and check if you can connect to the WiFi network.
  4. If you can, you’re good to go, but if not, type the following commands in the elevated Command Prompt and press Enter after each one: netsh int tcp set heuristics disabled netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled netsh int tcp set global rss=enabled

If you are facing Surface Pro 8 or Surface Pro 6 WiFi issues, you can fix it by resetting the TCP/IP stack by following the steps above.

3. Re-configure the WiFi Adapter

  1. Go to Search, type device manager, and open Device Manager.
  2. Right-click on your wireless adapter and go to Properties.
  3. Go to the Power Management tab, uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power, and click OK.
    Allow computer turn off device save power
  4. Modify the default power plan, and switch it from high energy savings to low.

Sometimes, the Surface Pro 3 WiFi issues can be due to wrong power settings. This is especially true if your PC is set to turn off your WiFi adapter to save power.

You can correct this by deactivating the power management feature.

4. Run the Internet Connections troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Update & Security.
  2. Click the Troubleshoot option in the left pane and select Additional troubleshooters.
  3. Now, select Internet Connections and click Run the troubleshooter.
internet connections troubleshooter

If you prefer to use a tool to fix your Wi-Fi issues on your Surface Pro device, you can run the Internet Connections troubleshooter. This is one of the many Windows 10 built-in troubleshooting tools you can use to fix general technical issues.

That would be all. If you’re still unable to connect to the WiFi network, you can wait a bit because maybe Microsoft will deliver the solution through Windows Update.

In the same vein, if Surface Pro won’t connect to WiFi 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 Fix Aoddriver2.sys Blue Screen Error on Windows

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

AMD OverDrive is a software utility from the CPU manufacturer that helps users with overclocking and fan control. It is a handy utility for ADM CPU users as it enables you to push the hardware’s limit.

However, any conflict with the AMD OverDrive software can result in aoddriver2.sys error in Windows PCs.

The error is not limited to any one version of the OS. A good number of users have reported the aoddriver2.sys error resulting in Blue Screen of Death.

The aoddriver2.sys error is a Windows driver that allows the computer to communicate with hardware or connected devices.

In this case, the CPU. The fact that the driver has direct access to the internals of the Windows OS, any conflict between the driver and the hardware can result in a system shutdown.

So, if you are PC also affected by the aoddriver2.sys error, this guide will help you diagnose and fix the issue by yourself, the common problems and solutions to fix the aoddriver2.sys error.

The aoddriver2.sys failed error can be caused by several reasons and one of them being the installation of AMD OverDrive software with an incompatible CPU.

For example, the AMD OverDrive software is not supported by Ryzen series processors; instead, AMD offers an alternative called Ryzen Master Utility.

Now if you happen to install AMD OverDrive on a Ryzen series computer, it is possible that you might be affected by aoddriver2.sys error, which makes running your PC extremely difficult.

Below are the most common aoddriver2.sys error messages displayed:

  • SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION AODDriver2.SYS
  • SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED AODDriver2.SYS

How do I fix aoddriver2.sys errors in Windows 10?

1. Use a third-party BsoD fixer

We highly recommend using a reliable repair tool because it can automatically handle various system crashes and errors.

2. Uninstall the AMD OverDrive program in Safe Mode

2.1 Restart your PC.

  1. From the login screen click on the Power button.
  2. Hold the Shift key and click on Restart.
  3. This can also be done from the Start menu if you are already logged in.

2.2 Repair your PC

If your PC doesn’t restart normally, then Windows will present you with a Recovery screen after two failed restart attempts. From the screen, click on See Advanced Repair Options to proceed.

2.3 Uninstall AMD OverDrive in Safe mode

  1. First shutdown your PC.
  2. Press the start button and start pressing the F8 key during boot till you see the Recovery screen.
  3. From the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot option.
  4. Next, click on Advanced Options.

  5. Under Advanced options section, click on the Startup Settings option.
  6. Click on the Restart button and let the PC restart.
  7. Upon restart, you will see multiple options to startup. Press the #4 key to enable Safe Mode.
  8. Now your PC will restart in Safe Mode. Go to Control Panel.
  9. Then, go to Programs, then Programs and Features.
  10. Find and uninstall AMD OverDrive software.
  11. To get out of the Safe Mode, simply restart your PC.

The aoddriver2.sys error can leave your PC unusable. The error usually puts the system into an endless crashing loop. This problem can be solved by booting the computer into Safe Mode.

Safe Mode in Windows is a diagnostic mode that allows you to fix any software-related problems with your computer. When in Safe Mode, the OS only loads essential system programs during startup.

This way, if a third-party program is making the system crash, you can uninstall it in Safe Mode. There are multiple ways to boot into Safe Mode. I have listed both the methods to access Safe Mode on Windows.

3. Use System Restore

3.1. Access System Restore Point normally

  1. In the Cortana/Search bar type Restore.
  2. Select Create a Restore Point option from the search result.
    System Restore - System Properties
  3. From the System Properties window, click on System Restore button.
  4. A new dialogue box will open. Click on Next.
    System Restore Point Select
  5. By default, Windows will show the most recently created restore point.
  6. Check Show more restore points option to view all the available restore points.
  7. Check the date when the restore point was created and select the restore point accordingly.
  8. Click on Scan for affected programs button to check which programs installed on your computer will be uninstalled due to the restore process.
    Confirm your System Restore point
  9. Click on Next to proceed.
  10. Read the confirmation message and if you want to go ahead click Finish.

Windows will restore the system back to when it was working perfectly fine. After the restart check for any improvements.

Windows 10 and earlier version of the OS come with System Restore features that allows you to create a system restore point manually or automatically on your PCs local drive.

The created restore points can be used to restore your PC back to normal in case of a crash or aoddriver2.sys error.

If you can boot into Windows normally, accessing system restore is easy. However, in case the error doesn’t let you log in, then you have to access system restore via Safe Mode. I have listed both the methods below.

Note: Any program installed after the selected restore point was created will be uninstalled during the restore process.

3.2 Access System Restore via Safe Mode

  1. When the PC restarts into Safe Mode with Command Prompt, enter the following command and hit Enter: Rstrui.exe
  2. Now follow the instructions give in Solution 3 – Method 3.1 to known how to proceed with the system restore process.

If you are unable to access the login screen, you can use the System Restore via Safe Mode.

Scroll up and read Solution 2 of this article to know how to boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt.  Once you are in the Safe Mode, do the following.

Note: It is important that you boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

4. Run Windows File Checker

  1. Type cmd in the Cortana/Search bar, right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. When the Command Prompt opens, type the following command and hit Enter: sfc/scannowscannow file explorer dark theme not working
  3. System File Checker will scan the protected system files for any missing or corrupted files and replace them with cached files from the local hard drive.
  4. The process can take a few minutes to an hour depending on your PC.

If you have installed AMD OverDrive on the right-version of the AMD processor and still getting the error, the problem can be with the corrupt or missing system files.

Windows comes with a built-in System File Checker tool to repair missing and corrupted system files. To use System File Checker, run the command prompt as admin.

5. Use a third-party uninstaller tool

It is possible that the AMD OverDrive software may not be visible in the Program and feature screen making the uninstallation process difficult. We recommend using IObit Uninstaller to solve this issue.

IObit Uninstaller is a great software that automatically uninstalls other programs from your computer. Control Panel is not always reliable. There can be programs that aren’t recognized by it on your PC.

Therefore, IObit Uninstaller will make sure to scan and find all the installed software in your system. From there, you can choose which one to uninstall, with just a few clicks.

6. Perform a Clean Install

Now, this is the last thing anyone wants to do. Performing a clean install of Windows OS is a time-consuming process, and you would also need to install all the programs right from scratch again.

To perform a clean install of Windows OS, you need an installation drive or disk. You can easily create a bootable USB flash drive / Disk using the ISO.

You also need to download the Media Creation Tool to install your new Windows on the computer. After installing the new OS, you should not be experiencing any problems with it.

While AMD OverDrive is a handy little utility that allows you to overclock your CPU and also monitor the temperature and speed, it is recommended to stop the use if it causes AODDriver2.SYS BSOD error.

In case you’re dealing with additional problems, we have a guide that focuses on troubleshooting aswhdske.sys blue screen errors, so you might want to check it out.

Did any of the solutions fix the AMD OverDrive error for you? Do let us know your favorite overclocking software in the comments below.

Windows 10 Hibernate not Working: Why & How to Fix

Posted on by Andrew Wafer

Windows 10 is one of the most-used OS, and for a good reason. However, some users are complaining that the Windows 10 hibernate is not working for some reason.

This can be a serious issue because hibernation, just like the sleep state, helps to conserve energy without losing data. If the Windows 10 hibernate is not working for you, be at ease, as this guide contains the solutions to fix it for good.

Why can’t I hibernate Windows 10?

There are a series of factors that can cause hibernation not to work on your PC. Below are some of them:

  • Outdated PC: The first thing to check if you are facing this issue is if your PC is outdated. If you are not running the latest version of Windows 10, you need to update your PC to fix this issue.
  • Wrong power setting: In some cases, you might be experiencing this issue because you made some changes to your power settings. The only solution to this is to reset your power settings to default.
  • Outdated drivers: If Windows 10 hibernate is not working after an OS update, it might be because your drivers are outdated. Updating your drivers to the latest version should fix this.

How to Fix Windows 10 Hibernate and Sleep Issues

1. Update your computer

As already mentioned, these issues might be fixed as soon as you update the system of your device; in this way, everything will be compatible with Windows 10 thus, all the in-built features will smoothly run, as they were before applying the Windows update.

2. Reset your power plan

  1. Go to your Start Screen and press Windows + R keyboard keys and type control in the Run box. This will launch the Control Panel window.
  2. Choose Power Options, followed by Edit Plan Settings.
  3. From there, select and delete the custom power plan or reset the default power plans featured on your Windows 10 device.
    power plan

But the first thing to do when noticing hibernate issues is to reset the power plans from your Windows 10 computer or to delete your custom power plan – in case you have created one.

3. Disable active apps and programs

If the problem persists, then open Task Manager by using the Ctrl + Alt + Del keyboard sequence. Then from Task Manager, choose the Startup tab, and from there, just disable all items except your drivers and reboot.

4. Update your display drivers/ BIOS

If you still have the same hibernate problems, you might have a compatibility issue. In that matter, you should try to update your display drivers and also the BIOS that is featured on your device.

Basically, after flashing the updates, you should be able to fix the hibernate and sleep problems from your desktop.

So, that was all for now. Try the solutions explained above and see if there are notable results; don’t forget to feedback on your way.

5. Scan your computer for malware

Malware infections may prevent you from using your computer’s hibernate/ sleep feature. Make sure that your machine is malware-free by running a full system scan using your antivirus of choice.

We also recommend you install dedicated antimalware software for an additional layer of security.

That should do for the Windows 10 hibernate not working issue. We believe you should be able to fix this issue provided you follow the steps in this guide.

If you are facing other issues like Windows 10 shuts down instead of hibernating/sleeping, check our detailed guide to fix it.

Errors such as Error_Volsnap_Hibernate_Ready can also cause problems with hibernation, but we covered this issue in a separate guide.

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