Windows Photo Gallery Not Working: 3 Fixes That You Can Use

Many users reported that Windows Photo Gallery is not working on their PC. This is somewhat expected since it’s an older software that isn’t maintained anymore.

Users have reported that Windows Live Photo Gallery fails to start and they are greeted with the Photo Gallery encountered an error loading WLXPhotoLibraryMain.dll and can’t start. Error code 0x8007007e message.

Before we start fixing this error, let’s see what causes it on Windows 10.

Why is Windows Photo Gallery not working?

  • Missing components – Windows Live Photo Gallery requires MF.dll and MFplat.dll files. This can happen if you’re using Windows 10 N edition or KN version. In case you’re not familiar, that are versions for the European and Korean markets respectively.
  • Compatibility issues – Windows Photo Gallery is old software, so compatibility issues are expected. Instead, why not use a different photo manager software?

What do I do if Windows Photo Gallery won’t open?

1. Download the Media Feature Pack for Windows 10

  1. Press Windows key + S and type optional. Select Manage optional features.
     
  2. Click on Add a feature.
  3. Search for Media Feature Pack.
  4. Check it and click on Install.

If you can’t find it on the list, it means that your version of Windows already has it installed.

This is a simple solution, so be sure to try it if Windows Live Photo Gallery is not working.

2. Use a different photo viewer

This is one of the simplest solutions if you’re tired of trying to fix the Windows Live Photo Gallery tool.

There are plenty of photo viewer tools out there that allow you to import, view, filter your photos, and much more.

One variant which we really love is the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, a complete solution that offers much more than a simple gallery, and its proved to be very stable. 

If Photo Gallery not responding, perhaps you should consider an alternative, and currently, there’s no better alternative than Adobe Lightroom.

Here’s what this bad baby can do:

  • Edit pictures on the go, directly from a mobile, web or desktop application
  • Includes cloud storage for all of your pictures
  • Pre-defined tools will aid you in editing
  • Built for photography, but with a simple and easy to use design

Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Lightroom is a professional photo viewer that can help you organize and edit your photos.
Free trial Visit website

3. Download Windows 10 with built-in Media Player

Note icon NOTE
This method will require you to reinstall your version of Windows, so if you plan to use it, back up your files beforehand.
  1. Visit Windows 10 download page. Click on the Download tool now.
  2. Once the software is downloaded, run it. Accept the Terms of Service.
  3. Select Create installation media and click Next.
  4. Uncheck Use recommended options for this PC. After that, select English (United States). You can also select any non-European version.
  5. Now choose a USB flash drive to download and create a bootable drive automatically. Or, if you want to manually create a drive, choose ISO file.
  6. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.

To see how to install Windows 10 from scratch, visit our Windows 10 clean install guide for more information.

These are just a couple of quick solutions that you can try if Windows Photo Gallery is not working for you.

A few users reported that Media Feature Pack isn’t showing for them, but we covered that issue in a separate guide.

Did you find a different solution on your own? Share it with us in the comments section below!

How to Uninstall uTorrent: 5 Ways to Completely Remove it

If uTorrent is not uninstalling, we enlisted two ways to remove it. You probably can’t uninstall uTorrent because you don’t have the necessary permissions, or the installer is corrupted. In other cases, uTorrent might be still running in the background or there are some leftovers in the Registry.

How can I uninstall uTorrent?

  1. 1. Using the Control Panel

    1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard or click on the Start button on your taskbar to open the Search menu.

  2. 2. Type control panel in the Search bar and click on the app from the results.

    control panel search uninstall
  3. 3. Next, go to Programs and Features.

    programs and features control panel
  4. 4. Look for uTorrent in the list and right-click on it.

  5. 5. Select Uninstall from the list of available options.

    uninstall utorrent control panel
  6. 6. Follow the steps to uninstall uTorrent from your PC.

  7. The first and best solution for uninstalling uTorrent is to do so through Control Panel. This built-in tool helps you easily remove any unwanted programs or files from your PC in a few clicks. It is recommended that you try out this method before you test more advanced ones.

If you cannot uninstall uTorrent from the Control Panel in Windows 10, you should try other, more advanced solutions.

2. Using the Windows Settings app

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, and click on Apps.
  2. Now select Apps & features.
  3. Find uTorrent in the app list, click on it, and finally select Uninstall.

3. Use the uTorrent Uninstaller

  1. Open the File Explorer by pressing Windows + E.
  2. Type the path below in the address bar and hit Enter.
    %AppData%\uTorrent
  3. Lastly, if you have an Uninstaller.exe file, right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
    how to uninstall uTorrent

4. Use a third-party tool

The simplest way to remove the software from your PC is to employ a specialized removal tool.

A famous optimizing software can remove any application with a few clicks. The app recommended below is a multi-functional solution that can do much for your system performance.

So, using it will help you clear unused programs or software files from the system, eliminating clutter and freeing up significant memory.

IObit Uninstaller

With this user-friendly utility, uninstalling stubborn programs and eliminating residues has never been easier.
Free Download Visit Website

5. Clean registry entries and manually delete the application

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Look for uTorrent under Processes and terminate all related running processes.
  3. In the Windows search bar, type regedit, right-click on the Registry Editor, and select Run as administrator.utorrent wont uninstall windows 10
  4. Click on the File and then Export to back up the Registry in case of trouble.
  5. Now, press Shift + F to open the elevated Search bar.
  6. Type utorrent and click Find Next. Again, it’s essential not to remove anything unrelated to uTorrent.
  7. Remove all uTorrent entries and close the Registry Editor.
  8. Lastly, restart your PC.

If you have read to this point, you should have succeeded in uninstalling uTorrent from your computer. You should, however, note that not all solutions will work for everybody.

We encourage you to try what seems the most appropriate. Also, note that if you want to use the registry to uninstall uTorrent, we recommend exporting Registry files so that your data is not lost.

Find out how to remove bloatware on Windows 10 by reading our dedicated article. If you want to know more about this application, and why you should remove it, our uTorrent.exe guide is the right place to start.

Finally, in the comments section below, let us know which of these steps is most useful for you.

Windows 11 Won’t Sleep: 6 Steps to Fix it

Sleep Mode is often regarded as one of the most beneficial aspects of the Windows 11 operating system, particularly regarding reducing power usage, so it is an issue if there is no Sleep Mode option.

The mode places your device in a low-power state, turns off the display, and allows you to resume your work from where you left off last time. Because of this, Windows employs Sleep Mode rather than entirely turning off the system to conserve battery life on your device.

Why my computer has no Sleep Mode option?

If your Windows 11 device doesn’t have the Sleep Mode option, there are a few elements to be aware of. The major causes remain the following:

  • Disabled settings – This should be the most obvious. You may have disabled Sleep Mode on the PC.
  • Power plan errors – Some users have misconfigured the Power Plan.
  • Malware – When important Settings fail on a computer, this could be a sign that some malware infects the computer. We always recommend using the best antivirus software.

Laptops are most suited for sleep mode due to their battery life, allowing them to last through brief naps and overnight slumbers.

It should be mentioned that if your computer is left unattended for excessive time, it will shut down. So, let us show you the best solutions.

How can I get back the Sleep Mode on Windows 11?

1. Ensure that Sleep Mode is enabled on your device

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and navigate to System in the left pane followed by Power & battery from the right side.power-baterry windows 11 won't go to sleep
  2. Now scroll to the Screen and sleep section and manually set the time interval of inactivity after which you want your PC to enter Sleep Mode. sleep-settings windows 11 won't go to sleep

2. Set up a new Power plan

  1. Press the Windows + S key to open the Search bar, then type Choose a power plan and click on the most relevant result.choose-a-power-plan windows 11 won't go to sleep
  2. Now click on Choose when the computer sleeps from the left panel.change-computer-sleep windows 11 won't go to sleep
  3. Lastly, choose when you want your computer to go into Sleep Mode, then click Save.computer-sleep-settings  windows 11 won't go to sleep

3. Perform a virus scan on your PC

  1. Click the carrot arrow from your Taskbar, in the right corner to find the antivirus you have installed, then right-click on it and choose the option that opens the app interface.open-antivirus  appraiserres.dll for windows 11
  2. Now click on the button that performs a Smart scan or anything similar to a virus scan.smart-scan appraiserres.dll for windows 11

The existence of a virus or malicious software on your computer can prevent your device from entering Sleep Mode.

In case you don’t have antivirus software and want to ensure that your PC is protected around the clock without any effort from your side, we recommend that you try out the powerful TotalAV.

You can also explore the 5 best antivirus software on the market list for a complete list of other useful software options.

4. Remove the battery

This step applies to both users using a laptop or desktop computer. If you don’t have the Sleep Mode in Windows 11, even though all settings are proper, the most likely culprit is the battery itself.

Removing the CMOS battery for 15 minutes and reinserting it to see if the problem has been resolved is recommended. Alternatively, replace the CMOS battery.

If your device’s battery is not replaceable, you can use a third-party app to track how much power it has left before deciding to replace it.

5. Use the Power troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I to start Settings.
  2. Click on System from the left and select Troubleshoot from the right pane.
  3. Now, choose Other troubleshooters from the menu.
  4. Scroll down until you find the Power troubleshooter and hit the Run button.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the procedure.

6. Turn off Screensaver mode

  1. 1. Press the Windows + S key to open the Search bar.

  2. 2. Type Turn screensaver on or off in the search box.

    screen-saver windows 11 won't go to sleep
  3. 3. Click on the result.

  4. 4. The Screen Saver Settings menu will open. Choose None under Screen Saver.

    screensaver-none windows 11 won't go to sleep
  5. 5. Click OK to apply and save the changes. Now the Screensaver Mode is turned off.

  6. If your Windows 11 won’t go to sleep when you leave it inactive for a specific amount of time, it might be possible that the Screensaver mode is interfering.

    When you have Screensaver mode enabled, it keeps your PC open. Thus, disabling it will allow your PC to enter Sleep Mode.

In the comments section below, let us know which solution worked best for you and whether you keep your computer in sleep mode overnight.

Fix USB Ports not Working in Windows 10 – 8 Tested Methods

We connect various devices to our PCs, such as portable hard drives, flash drives, printers, cameras, and other peripherals, and most of these devices use USB.

Your USB port no longer working in Windows 10 is a common problem. Most users face this after a Windows Update. It might also be caused by drivers or issues with power settings.

Let’s see how you can get rid of this problem and use your USB without issues.

How to fix USB not working on Windows 10?

1. Reinstall device drivers

  1. Download the latest drivers for your USB device and install them.
    • If there are no new drivers available just continue with the next step.
  2. Open Device Manager.
  3. You can do that by pressing Windows Key + X and choosing Device Manager from the list.
    USB keyboard not working on Windows 10 Device Manager
  4. Locate the device driver and right-click it.
  5. Choose Uninstall device to remove the driver.
    USB not working Windows Code 43 device manager uninstall device
  6. Restart your computer.

Update drivers automatically

If this method doesn’t work or you do not have the necessary computer skills to update/fix the drivers manually, we strongly suggest doing it automatically by using third-party driver updaters.

The software will automatically scan your computer for new compatible driver versions and update them for you. Moreover, the program will scan both your hardware and software.

2. Change Power Management settings for USB Controller

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Find Universal Serial Bus controllers section and expand it.
  3. Right-click each driver named USB Root Hub and select Properties.
    USB not working when plugged in usb root hub properties
  4. Go to Power Management tab.
    • Make sure that Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power is not checked.
    • If it’s checked, uncheck it.
  5. Click OK to save the changes.
    USB not working Toshiba power management usb root hubd allow the computer to turn off this device to save power
  6. Repeat the process for all USB Root Hub drivers.
  7. Restart your computer.

If USB is not working on your PC, you can fix it by changing your Power Management settings.

3. Uninstall the USB Controller

  1. Open the Device Manager.
  2. Find Universal Serial Bus controllers and expand it.
  3. Right-click the first driver in the Universal Serial Bus section and click Uninstall.
  4. Repeat the process for all drivers in the Universal Serial Bus section.
  5. Restart your computer.

Many users reported that USB is not working, and to fix this issue, you need to reinstall the USB Controller by doing the following:

4. Turn off fast startup

  1. Open Control Panel and choose Power Options.
    USB not recognized control panel power options
  2. On the sidebar on the left, click Choose what the power button does.
    USB not appearing choose what the power button does
  3. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
    USB not responding change settings that are currently unavailable
  4. Under the Shutdown settings find the Turn on fast startup and uncheck it.
  5. Now click Save changes and you’re done.
    USB not reading turn off fast startup

If USB is not working, you need to disable Fast Startup, and you can do so by following these steps:

Some users report that Windows 10 is booting too quickly, and therefore there’s not enough time for external devices to be detected before the system boots.

According to some users, you might be able to fix this problem simply by disabling USB selective suspend feature. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Open Power Options and click Change plan settings next to your currently selected plan.
    USB not transferring change plan settings
  2. Now click on Change advanced power settings.
    USB is not yet available change advanced power settings
  3. Navigate to USB settings and set USB selective suspend setting to Disabled.
  4. Click Apply and OK to save changes.
    USB not initialized usb selective suspend setting disable

5. Remove your laptop battery

If the USB is not working on your laptop, you might be able to fix this problem by removing your laptop battery.

According to users, many fixed the problem by removing the battery and keeping the power button pressed for 30 seconds or more.

By doing that, you’ll cause your capacitors to discharge completely. Some users are also recommending leaving your laptop turned off without a battery the night before capacitors fully discharge.

After doing that, the problem with the USB should be resolved completely.

6. Modify your registry

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter regedit.
  2. Now press Enter or click OK.
    USB not opening files regedit run window
  3. Optional: Modifying the registry can cause various issues to occur, therefore it’s recommended to back up your registry.
  4. You can do that by clicking File > Export.
    USB not accessible export registry
  5. Now set Export range as All and choose a safe location.
  6. Enter the desired file name and click on Save.
    USB mouse, keyboard not working on Windows 10 backup registry
    • In case anything goes wrong after modifying your registry, you can simply run this file to restore it to the previous state.
  7. In the left pane, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SYSTEMCurrentControl/Set/Control/Class{4d36e965-e325-11ce-bfc1-08002be10318}
  8. The name of the key might be slightly different on your PC, but it should start with 4d36e965, so you’ll easily find it.
    USB ports not working Windows 10 registry
  9. In the right pane, locate UpperFilter and LowerFilters and delete them.
    • If these entries aren’t available, this solution won’t apply to you.
  10. After deleting the files, restart your PC.

According to users, you might be able to fix this problem simply by making a couple of changes in your registry. If USB is not working, you just need to follow these steps:

Once your PC restarts, your USB ports should start working again without any problems.

7. Update your USB Root Hub drivers

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers section and right-click USB Root Hub.
  3. Choose Update driver from the menu.
    USB not working Windows Code 43 update driver device manager
  4. Now select Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will automatically install the necessary drivers.
    USB not working when plugged in search automatically for updated driver software
  5. Repeat these steps for all USB Root Hub devices on your PC.

If USB is not working on your Windows 10 PC, you might be able to fix the problem simply by updating the USB Root Hub driver. This is rather simple to do, follow the steps above.

Drivers can also be updated with the help of specialized s

oftware. After a quick scan, the software will just prompt you with all the drivers you need to update.

8. Install the necessary updates

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. You can do that quickly by pressing the Windows key + I.
  3. When the Settings app opens, navigate to Update & security section.
    USB not working Samsung update & security
  4. Now click on the Check for updates button.
  5. Windows will now check and download available updates.
    USB not detected check for updates

If USB is not working on Windows 10, you might be able to fix this problem simply by installing the necessary updates.

That’s it; hopefully, one of these workarounds was helpful for you. That said, USB problems aren’t limited to just one version of Windows or one type of device. If you’re running Windows 11, you might be interested in this guide on how to fix USB not recognized issues in Windows 11.

And if you’re dealing with more specific hardware—like trying to connect a second screen or external display—check out what to do when your USB to HDMI adapter isn’t working, or if your USB-C to DisplayPort cable suddenly stops working.

In the same vein, if your USB works but becomes slow, you can check out our article to fix it.

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

Fix: Windows Defender Real-Time Protection Won’t Turn On

Safeguarding your PC using an antivirus tool is one of the first things you should do, as we are constantly exposed to new threats because of the internet. Microsoft includes the Windows Defender Firewall, as well as Windows Security to protect your PC.

However, there are a bunch of users who have reported that the Windows Defender real-time protection won’t turn on. For users facing the same issue, this guide is just for you. Here, we will give you a bunch of solutions that will help fix the Windows Defender real-time protection that won’t turn on.

Why won’t Windows Defender real-time protection turn on?

We did some careful research and found out some of the most common reasons why Windows Defender real-time protection won’t turn on:

  • Third-party antivirus installed on your PC: If there is a third-party antivirus installed on your PC, then it could conflict with the Windows Defender and won’t let you use the real-time protection.
  • Check the Group Policy Settings: In case the Turn off Windows Defender Group Policy setting is enabled then you won’t be able to turn on the real-time protection.
  • Corrupt system files: If the system files on your PC are corrupt or missing then it could trigger multiple issues on your PC.
  • There is some issue with the recently installed Windows update: If you are coming across this issue right after installing a new update on your PC, chances are that the update was buggy.

What can I do if Windows Defender real-time protection won’t turn on?

1. Uninstall any third-party antivirus

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open the Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Click on the antivirus tool and select Uninstall from the top.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to remove the program from your PC completely.

A third-party antivirus program won’t let you use another antivirus program, or it would interfere with it. In such a case, we would suggest you uninstall any third-party antivirus tool that you have on your PC and then check if you could turn on the real-time protection or not.

2. Check the Group Policy setting

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type gpmc.msc and hit the Enter key.
  3. Select Computer Configuration.
  4. Expand Administrative Templates.
  5. Select Windows Components.
  6. Click on Windows Defender Antivirus.
  7. Double-click on Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus policy on the right side.
  8. Select the Disabled option if not selected.
  9. Click Apply and OK.

When you follow the above steps and do as said, you ensure the Windows Defender isn’t disabled on your PC.

If the program is disabled, you won’t be able to use its features, which in our case is to turn on the real-time protection.

3. Fix system files

  1. Open the Start menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the process to complete.
  5. Type the below command and press Enter. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  6. Once the process completes, restart your PC.

This is one way to fix corrupt or missing system files and fix several associated issues. However, often running SFC and DISM commands doesn’t help fix the corrupt system files; in such a case, we would suggest you make use of a dedicated system fixing tool.

4. Uninstall recently installed Windows update

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Windows Update from the left pane.
  3. Select Update history.
  4. Under Related settings, click on Uninstall updates.
  5. Click on Uninstall to remove the recently installed update.

Often, apart from bringing new features to Windows, the latest Windows update also contains bugs that could cause you several issues, including Windows Defender real-time protection won’t turn on the problem.

In such a case, the best way is to uninstall the recently installed update and see if this fixes the problem or not.

5. Reset Windows

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Select Recovery.
  3. Hit the Reset PC button.
  4. Select the Keep my files option to reset your PC without removing your personal files.

As a last resort, you can opt to reset your PC. Following the above steps would help you reset your PC without deleting your files.

On the contrary, if you want to turn off real-time protection that keeps enabling itself, read this guide.

That is it from us in this guide. Some users have reported that the Virus & threat protection option isn’t working on their Windows 11 PC. You can refer to our guide and resolve the problem.

If the Windows Defender is missing from your Windows 11 PC, you should check out our guide, which will help you fix the issue.

For more advanced users, we have a great guide on how to perform a virus scan in CMD, so don’t miss it.

Let us know in the comments below which solutions helped you fix the Windows Defender real-time protection won’t turn on issue.

How to Stop Multiple Chrome Processes in Task Manager

Google Chrome is one of the most used browsers, and just like any other program, opening multiple Chrome windows and tabs can impact the browser’s overall performance. Subsequently, many users see multiple Google Chrome processes in the Task Manager.

But why does Chrome create so many processes in the Task Manager, often more than the number of tabs open? And that sure affects the performance, which becomes profound on a low-configuration PC.

We will show you in this article a few easy steps to help you solve the multiple Google Chrome processes issue, so keep reading.

Why does Chrome have multiple processes in Task Manager?

Google Chrome is designed to run multiple processes in the background to improve performance, stability, and security. In addition, each process is isolated, so if one process crashes, the others will continue to run without disrupting the user.

Here are the main reasons for having multiple processes in Chrome:

  1. Render Process – This process renders web pages in the browser.
  2. GPU Process – This process handles graphic-intensive tasks, such as rendering 3D graphics or playing videos.
  3. Extension Process – Each installed Chrome extension runs in its approach.
  4. Tab Process – Each tab in Chrome runs in its own process, which helps prevent one tab from crashing the entire browser.
  5. Service Worker Process – This process runs background tasks for web applications, such as push notifications or background syncing.

So, you now know the reason behind multiple instances of Google Chrome in the Task Manager. If you were looking to fix things, follow the steps in the next section.

How do I stop Google Chrome from running multiple processes?

1. Use Chrome’s Task Manager

  1. Launch Google Chrome, and press Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. Locate the process you don’t want to run anymore, select it, and then click on End process.
    Terminate to fix google chrome multiple processes
  3. Similarly, terminate all non-critical processes to free up memory.

Though not a very effective method, manually terminating processes will come in handy when you want to instantly free up memory if multiple Google Chrome processes are running.

2. Disable background processes in Chrome

  1. Launch Google Chrome, paste the following path in the address bar, and hit Enter:
    chrome://settings/system
  2. Now, turn off the toggle for the Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed option.
    Disable toggle to fix google chrome multiple processes

If multiple processes run in Google Chrome, disabling the background apps might help. If it doesn’t, try the following method.

3. Change the Google Chrome setup

  1. Right-click on the Google Chrome shortcut and select Properties from the context menu.
  2. Next, go to the Target field in the Shortcut tab and enter the following at the end after a space:--process-per-site
    enter
  3. Click on Apply and OK to save the changes and close the window.
    Apply to fix google chrome multiple processes

4. Close additional tabs

Our last recommendation to stop having so many opened Chrome processes would be to try using fewer tabs opened simultaneously. The more tabs you have open, the more the number of Google Chrome processes in the Task Manager.

Find it challenging to avoid opening multiple tabs. You could try to use bookmarking pages as it will allow more straightforward navigation, given that you can organize them as needed.

5. Limit the extensions to a minimum

  1. Launch Chrome, click on the ellipsis near the top-right, hover the cursor over More tools, and then select Extensions.
    Extensions
  2. Now, click the Remove button under the extension you don’t use anymore.
    Remove to fix google chrome multiple processes
  3. Again, click Remove in the confirmation prompt.
    remove
  4. Similarly, remove the other extensions that you don’t use anymore.

Once done, you wouldn’t see multiple Google Chrome processes running anymore. Their number should have come down by now, thus freeing up system resources.

With this last step, we conclude our list of recommendations to fix things when multiple Google Chrome processes are running in Windows 10/11.

Also, find out what to do if Chrome’s CPU usage is high.

Please let us know in the comments section below if you have additional suggestions and recommendations.

Nikon Autofocus Not Working: Troubleshoot & Fix in 4 Steps

If you are new to the DLSR game, you may have some issues adjusting to your camera. While some users have a hard time using the Nikon camera flash, others complain about Nikon autofocus not working.

The DSLR cameras offer both auto-focusing as well as manual focusing options. However, while trying to learn the basics, you may tweak some settings that will disable the focus feature.

Don’t worry, we’ll show you how to fix autofocus on the Nikon lens. But first things first. You must be wondering why is the autofocus not working on your Nikon.

Why is my Nikon camera not focusing?

Like many other users, you might be wondering what’s one of the most common reasons a DSLR autofocus fails. It can be anything from an unbalanced background contrast to lens or battery issues.

However, most often it’s a question of inadequate settings. One particular model seems to stand out more than others.

In this case, Nikon D5600 focus issues seem to be the most frequest and most of the times, the answer comes from Nikon D5600 autofocus settings.

However, there are many other models impacted. Let’s quick review the most recent issues reported by our users:

  • Nikon D3500, D7100, D3200, D5500, D750, D3300, D7000, D7200, D3400, D500, D5000
    D610, D850, Nikon Z6, Nikon D5300 autofocus not working
  • Nikon lens not focusing – Especially, Nikon 18-55mm lens autofocus not working
  • Nikon autofocus motor not working

How do I fix my Nikon autofocus?

Before we dig in, make sure you try out the most common troubleshooting techniques:

→ Turn off your camera for a few seconds. If it has a replaceable battery, remove the battery as well.
Leave it idle for a few seconds. Insert the battery and turn on the camera. Check for any improvements.

→ Make sure that the background objects contrast is enough for your camera.

→ As a last-ditch effort, try resetting the Nikon DSLR camera to factory default.

1. Check Autofocus mode

  1. Make sure both the lens and the camera switches are set to Autofocus.
  2. On the camera, the switch must be set to AF (Autofocus) and not M. M is for manual.
  3. Make sure the same is also true for the lens.
  4. If the lens doesn’t have an AF option, set it to M/A.

2. Unlock the back dial

  1. The back dial should always be pointed toward the camera icon.
  2. If it is pointed towards, L, make sure you use the dial to point it towards the right icon.
  3. Once it is done, check if the Nikon autofocus option is working properly, as intended.

3. Check AEL / AFL

  1. Check your AEL/AFL buttons.
  2. If you have locked focus using the AEL / AFL, the focus feature will not work.
  3. Make sure you click the AE-L and AF-L buttons to unlock focus.
  4. This should help you to resolve the Nikon camera focus issue.

4. Check the lens

  1. If you haven’t locked your focus, the issue could be with the lens.
  2. Remove the lens and inspect it for any scratches from both ends.
  3. Make sure the filters are clean and have no physical issues.
  4. Use a clean cloth to clean the lens. Avoid blowing on the lens.
  5. While reattaching the lens, you should hear a clicking sound after twisting it.
  6. You may also want to check the viewfinder of your DLSR for smudges, oil, or dirt.
  7. Use a piece of cloth to clean the viewfinder. Do not use any solvent to clean the viewfinder.

Despite smartphone cameras offering great image and video quality, the DSLRs are still a favorite for many professionals as well as individuals.

We hope this little troubleshooting guide helps you to fix the Nikon autofocus not working issue by yourself. Should the problem persist, you may need to take the DSLR to the authorized service center.

If so, don’t forget to do a bit of research regarding the Nikon lens autofocus repair cost and see if it is worth it.

Posted in Fix

How to Set Chrome as Default Browser on Windows 11

cEven though Microsoft Edge is a decent browser, users still prefer exploring the web with different software as the number of features and stabilizability increases. So if you are wondering how to set Chrome as the default browser in Windows 11, we will explore this.

The latest version of Windows supports most browsers, and if you’re looking for a new one, be sure to check our list of the best Windows 11 browsers.

Using a more capable browser can significantly impact how you explore the web, the security level while you do, and many other advantages.

However, changing the default apps for different tasks isn’t always as straightforward as expected in the latest version.

Quick Tip:

An alternative browser worth using as default is Opera due to its faster navigation and cutting-edge features.

You also have customizable tools and app integrations that help you navigate smoothly. For example, there are customizable sidebars, multiple workspaces, or built-in VPN privacy.

Opera One

Enjoy enhanced privacy and personalized browsing with this modern browser.

How can I make Chrome the default browser on Windows 11?

    If you currently have Edge or another browser set as default on your Windows 11, other than Chrome, you can easily change it from Apps settings. What you need to do is change the file association settings for all the associated file types  and web protocols and set them to open in Chrome.

  1. 1. Using the Settings app

    1. Click the Start button in the Taskbar.

    start button taskbar
  2. 2. Now select Settings.

    start menu settings choice
  3. 3. In the left pane, select Apps. After, from the right pane, choose Default apps.

    default apps settings
  4. 4. Scroll down and select Google Chrome from the list.

    set chrome default app
  5. 5. Click the first file type on the list. In our case, it’s .htm.

    change default app edge
  6. 6. Select Google Chrome from the list and click OK.

    select google chrome default app
  7. 7. Select the next file type and repeat the steps from above. Do this for all file types that Microsoft Edge or another browser is assigned.

2. From Chrome Settings

  1. launch the Chrome browser.
  2. Paste the address below on your address bar and hit Enter.
    chrome://settings/defaultBrowser
    set chrome as default browser Windows 11
  3. Click on the Make default button.
    set chrome as default browser Windows 11

Changing the default browser to Chrome on Windows 11 isn’t as simple as it used to be, and the process now takes a few minutes.

For older systems, follow this complete guide to set Chrome as the default browser in Windows 10.

We still aren’t sure why Microsoft changed how settings for default applications work, but you should know that this change affects all applications, not just web browsers.

Even though this option is not accessible as efficiently as in previous versions of Windows, users can customize Windows 11 operability with some cool new extra features that might prove helpful for most users and some beginners.

What other methods can you use to change the default apps? Let us know in the comments below.

Windows 10 Battery Icon Missing: How to Get it Back

Many users have reported the Windows 10 battery icon is missing from the taskbar or completely greyed out. This is especially true after upgrading from an older version of Windows.

This can be frustrating because users frequently check their battery level with the icon. Fortunately, it is an issue that can be fixed, as we will show in the ensuing sections of this guide.

Why has the battery icon disappeared on Windows 10?

Below are some of the factors that can cause the battery icon to go missing on Windows 10:

  • Corrupt system files: In some cases, this issue might be caused by corrupt system files. You need to repair and restore these files to get past this issue.
  • Outdated PC: An outdated operating system is another known cause of this issue. Even if the Windows 10 battery icon goes missing after an upgrade, you should try to update your PC if there are available updates.
  • Outdated drivers: If your battery drivers are outdated, you might experience this issue. The quick way out of this is to update your drivers to the latest version.

Speaking of this issue, below are some of its variations, as reported by users:

  • Battery icon greyed out Windows 10: This is a very similar issue, and you can apply most of these solutions.
  • Battery icon missing Windows 7: This also happens on laptops running Windows 7, and most of the following solutions are still valid.
  • Lenovo battery gauge not showing Windows 10: This problem is more common on Lenovo laptops than on other manufacturers’ machines.
  • Battery percentage missing Windows 10: Another common problem can be solved with the solutions listed below.
  • Windows 10 battery icon locked: Another usual problem with laptops running Windows 10.

How can I restore the missing battery icon in Windows 10?

1. Enable the battery icon

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select the System option.
    system windows 10 battery icon missing
  2. Select the Notifications & actions option in the left pane.
  3. Now, click Turn system icons on or off.
    turn off
  4. Toggle the switch for Power forward to enable it.
    power system
  5. Next, go back to the Notifications & actions window and click Select which icons appear on the taskbar.
    select windows 10 battery icon missing
  6. Finally, toggle the switch before Power forward to enable it.
    power

If the Windows 10 battery icon is missing on your taskbar, it might be because the icon is not enabled. You can rectify this by following the steps above.

2. Scan for hardware changes

  1. Press the Windows key, type control, and select Control Panel.
    control  windows 10 battery icon missing
  2. Choose the Hardware and Sound option.
    hardware and sound
  3. Now, select Add a device.
    add device
  4. Wait for the wizard to find your battery and restart your PC.

If you’ve recently replaced your laptop battery, there’s a chance your OS still hasn’t acknowledged it. This might be the reason the Windows 10 battery icon is missing.

So, it’s advisable to quickly scan for hardware changes and let your system recognize the new battery.

3. Run the SFC and DISM scans

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd windows 10 battery icon missing
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc/scannowsfc scan
  3. Now, wait for the command to finish running. If the SFC scan fails, type the command to finish running and hit Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthdism restore
  4. Finally, wait for the command to finish running and restart your computer.

In some cases, the Windows 10 battery icon might be missing because of corrupt system files. The solution to this is to run the built-in repair tools.

4. Update drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Device Manager option.
    device manager Windows 10 battery icon is missing
  2. Click the arrow next to the Batteries option and right-click the device there.
  3. Now, select the Update driver option.
    update driver
  4. Finally, choose the Search automatically for drivers option and install any available updates.
    search auto

Suppose the Windows 10 battery icon is missing after upgrading from earlier versions like Windows 7 or 8.1. In that case, it might be because your PC still uses drivers designed for the older versions and needs updating.

If the steps above fail to get the latest drivers, you can check the manufacturer’s website for them.

Alternatively, if you don’t want the hassle of updating drivers manually, we suggest doing it automatically using a dedicated driver updater tool.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

5. Restart Windows Explorer

  1. Right-click the Start Menu, and go to Task Manager.
    task manager Windows 10 battery icon is missing
  2. Now, right-click the Windows Explorer process and select Restart.
    restart explorer
  3. Restart your computer.

Another solution that some users reported as potentially helpful is restarting Windows Explorer. It’s fairly easy to restart Windows Explorer in Windows 10, and if you’re unsure how to follow the instructions above.

6. Run Hardware Troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type cmd, and click Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin Windows 10 battery icon is missing
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnosticmsdt
  3. Finally, wait for the command to finish running and perform any troubleshooting steps.

If the Windows 10 battery icon is missing, it might be because of some hardware glitches. The best-placed tool to fix this is to run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.

7. Update Windows

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

Microsoft is continuously improving Windows 10, and these improvements are delivered as updates through the Windows Update feature.

If your PC is outdated, the Windows 10 battery icon might go missing. Hence, you always need to update your device.

8. Update BIOS

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type msinfo32, and click the OK button.
    msinfo
  2. Check your BIOS Version/Date in the right pane.
    bios version
  3. Finally, check the manufacturer’s website for the latest version of your BIOS.

The BIOS is an essential part of your computer, making communication between the operating system and the hardware components possible. So, if it is outdated, the Windows 10 battery icon might go missing.

The only option here is to update your BIOS to the latest version. It must be noted that you need to be careful while performing this task to avoid causing further problems.

9. Disable and re-enable hardware in Device Manager

  1. Right-click the Start icon and select the Device Manager option.
    device managerWindows 10 battery icon is missing
  2. Expand the Batteries option and right-click each of the devices there.
  3. Now, select the Disable device option.
    disable device Windows 10 battery icon is missing
  4. Click the Yes button to confirm the action.
    yes
  5. Next, right-click the devices again and select Enable device.

Another thing to try is disabling and re-enabling the battery hardware and ACPI component. This is a fix that solved the missing battery icon problem for a lot of Windows 10 users.

Sometimes this isn’t enough, and you’ll have to uninstall and re-install them.

That’s about it. Hopefully, you can fix this missing battery icon issue on Windows 10. Just make sure you follow the instructions carefully.

If no battery is detected on your Windows 10 PC, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

If you have any additional comments, questions, or suggestions, write them down in the comments below.

Fix: DISM Does Not Support Servicing Windows PE

The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is an inbuilt command-line tool for Windows devices. It helps users to modify and repair system files and other software-related problems. It helps improve the files used for Windows Setup, Windows PE, and Windows RE.

However, users report that DISM does not support servicing Windows PE errors when using the tool. Also, our readers can check some quick ways to fix DISM error 50 on Windows 11.

Why does DISM not support servicing Windows PE?

The DISM does not support servicing Windows PE with the /Online option is an error that appears on the Administrative Command Prompt when using the DISM command. It indicates DISM cannot service the Windows Preinstallation Environment (PE).

However, some factors that may be responsible for the error are:

  • Wrong placement of the registry key – Users can run into the DISM does not support servicing Windows PE due to the misplacement of the corresponding registry key. It confuses the DISM command tool, causing it to think you’re running commands on Windows PE and not on the Windows system.
  • Issues with the input & output flow on your PC – Windows BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) manages the data flow between the operating system and external devices such as hard disks. So, an issue with any BIOS process can cause DISM error 50 on your PC.
  • User Account-related issues – Encountering the DISM does not support servicing Windows PE error message can be due to problems with a specific user account. When the account logged into your PC isn’t intact or working, it can cause issues with other system components.

Other factors can also cause the DISM error. Nevertheless, we’ll discuss some basic fixes for the error. You can understand the environment involved in this issue by reviewing a clear explanation of what Windows PE is, which helps clarify why DISM behaves differently when it detects WinPE.

What can I do if DISM does not support servicing Windows PE?

Go through the following checks before trying any advanced troubleshooting steps:

  • Close the Command Prompt and re-run the DISM command.
  • Restart Windows in Safe Mode and check if the DISM error appears.
  • Reset BIOS – Resetting BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) on your computer will refresh the output/input system to the last saved configuration. It’ll help resolve the error and remove corrupt BIOS components causing the error.

If you can’t get around the error, proceed with the solutions below.

1. Refresh Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt, and select Run as Administrator.
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter: dism.exe /image:C: /cleanup-image /revertpendingactions
  3. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type msconfig, and press Enter to start System Configuration.
  4. Select the Boot tab, go to Boot options, check the Safe boot option, then select Minimal.
  5. Click OK to save changes and exit. After restarting the PC, you will enter Safe Mode.
  6. Repeat steps 1-3 to open the Command Prompt, type the following, and press Enter: sfc /scannow

Refreshing the DISM command tool on your PC helps improve its performance and fix background operations causing problems.

As an alternative to the manual procedure above, you can try a third-party repair tool to proceed with this action automatically.

2. Delete the associated Windows PE Registry key

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control
  3. Find the MiniNT folder, right-click on it, and select Permissions from the drop-down menu.
  4. Under Group or user names, click your UserName and check the Allow box next to the Full Control option, then click OK.
  5. Right-click on the MiniNT folder again and choose Delete from the drop-down.
  6. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Deleting the associated folder can resolve the error and prevent further problems with the DISM tool. Check our guide if the Registry Editing has been disabled by Your Administrator.

3. Create another User Account

  1. Left-click the Start button, type User Account, and click on it to open the corresponding settings.
  2. Click the Manage another account option and click Add account link.
  3. Go to Other users and select Add someone else to this PC.
  4. Click Users and select the account tagged as a User account managed by the system.
  5. Click More Action, then New User.
  6. Fill in the necessary credentials and click Create to finish the account creation process.
  7. Log in to your PC using the new account and check if the error persists.

The above steps will resolve account-related issues that may cause the DISM error.

However, resetting BIOS is of different steps depending on the manufacturer of your PC. So, we recommend you consult your manufacturer for the steps for your device. You may also read about the DISM has failed error on Windows 11 and how to fix it.

Which solutions worked for you this time? Let us know in the comments area below.

6 Ways to Fix External Hard Drive Not Showing up in Windows 10

If your Windows 10 PC isn’t detecting your external hard drive, don’t worry. We’ll guide you through some simple and effective troubleshooting steps.

This usually happens because of a problem with your USB connection, power supply, drivers, file system compatibility, or a hard drive malfunction.

Since it can be hard to tell exactly what’s causing the problem, we’ll show you every possible fix. Just go through them one by one until something works.

What can I do if the external hard drive is not showing on Windows 10?

Before you try our recommended solutions, check the cable and test the hard drive on a different PC. If the same problem appears on another PC, the problem is most likely related to your portable hard drive.

1. Manually update your drivers

  1. Press Windows key + X and choose Device Manager from the list.
    External hard disk not detected in Disk Management
  2. Locate the Disk drives section and expand it.
  3. Check if any of the listed devices have a yellow exclamation mark next to them. If there is an exclamation mark next to your device, there might be a driver issue. Right-click the device and choose Update Driver.
    External hard disk not detected in Disk Management
  4. Select Search automatically for driver software.
    Windows doesn't recognize USB device, drive, stick

2. Change the portable hard drive letter and format it

2.1 Change the drive letter

  1. Press Windows key + X and choose Disk Management from the menu.
    External hard disk not detected in Disk Management
  2. Locate your portable hard drive in Disk Management and right-click it. Choose Change Drive Letter and Paths.
    External hard drive not showing up in Disk Management
  3. A new window will appear, showing you the current letter of your portable hard drive. Click Change and choose a new letter for it. Make sure you select the letter you won’t assign to another drive.
    Windows doesn't recognize USB device
  4. You’ll be presented with a dialog confirming that you wish to change the drive’s letter. Select Yes to change the drive letter.

If Disk Management shows that your portable hard drive is filled with unallocated space, you might want to format your portable hard drive.

2.2 Format the portable drive

Note icon NOTE
Formatting a drive will delete all files from it, so make sure that you back up important files first.
  1. Press Windows key + X and choose Disk Management from the menu.
    External hard disk not detected in Disk Management
  2. Right-click your portable hard drive and choose Format from the menu.
    External hard drive not showing up in Disk Management
  3. Enter the label for your hard drive, and choose File system type.
    Can't access external hard drive Windows 10
  4. Press OK and wait until your portable hard drive is formatted.

If you want to automate the task a little bit and make this job easier, you can change your portable drive letter with a disk management tool.

3. Use a third-party app to optimize your PC

f your hard drive isn’t showing up, some of your system settings might need adjusting.

You can use Ashampoo WinOptimizer to help clean up and fine-tune your PC. It’s a straightforward tool with features that can make troubleshooting easier.

  • Go to the One-Click Optimizer under System Maintenance
  • It looks for things like:
    • Leftover browsing data
    • Junk files
    • Registry clutter
    • Misconfigured system settings

You can also schedule it to run automatically if you want regular maintenance.

Ashampoo WinOptimizer

Ashampoo WinOptimizer

Power and efficiency in cleaning and optimizing your PC in a few clicks.
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4. Run the Hardware troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run console.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter to open the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
  3. Hit Next to start the troubleshooting.
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the troubleshooting.

Once the troubleshooting process is finished, check if the problem is still there.

5. Uninstall problematic drivers

  1. Right-click the Start button and open Device Manager.
    external hard drive not showing up windows 10
  2. Expand Disk drives, locate your portable hard drive, right-click it, and choose Uninstall device from the menu.
  3. Click Uninstall to remove the driver.
  4. Now click the Scan for hardware changes icon. Windows will install the default drivers for your portable hard drive.
    Windows doesn't recognize USB drive

Windows will search for and install the right driver automatically. Once it’s done, check if the issue is resolved.

Also, try updating the Universal Serial Bus Controller driver from the same menu, and check the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.

If you prefer an easier method, use a tool like Fortect Driver Updater to update all drivers automatically. It scans your system and installs safe updates from a database of over a million drivers.

6. Install Mass Store Device driver

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
    external hard drive not showing up windows 10
  2. Locate your portable hard drive, right-click it, and choose Update driver.
    external hard drive not showing up windows 10
  3. Select Browse my computer for driver software.
    Can't access external hard drive Windows 10
  4. Select Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
    External hard drive not showing up in Disk Management
  5. Now select the Mass Storage Device driver and install it.

After this driver is installed, check and see if the problem is resolved.

We also have to mention that if your hard drive is formatted using Linux or Mac with ext4 or HFS Plus File system type, you won’t be able to access it on Windows 10 until you format it on Windows.

If you have read through it, you should find success using one of the solutions we have provided.

Use the comments section below if you have any information to share or questions.

It’s also possible that a new hard drive won’t appear for other reasons, but luckily, this guide will help you with this issue. You can check out our guide to find even more factors causing Toshiba external hard drives not showing up.

Microsoft’s surprise press event is looking like a Bing announcement with ChatGPT as the main guest

In a seesaw battle of headlines, Microsoft followed Google’s surprise blog announcement of the company’s new conversational AI platform Bard, with its own surprise announcement of a press event happening at its Redmond campus in Washington.

The timing could be purely coincidental, but the subject matter of each announcement may not be, with Microsoft rumored to go into further detail about its partnership with OpenAI and the integration of its transformer technology into items such as Bing Search.

The event starts at 10AM PT/ 1PM ET on February 7, 2023, and while Microsoft hasn’t officially stated what the event is for, its speculative that it will include conversations regarding ChatGPT as the invites that went out last week to a select few in the press, include a message from company CEO Satya Nadella explaining that they intend to “share some progress on a few exciting projects.”

Microsoft’s new surprise event wedges itself between Google’s press announcement of its Bard AI technology and testing as well as a scheduled event on February 8, 2023, in which the company presumably will explain its AI efforts further.

Microsoft has already announced that it plans to fold ChatGPT into Bing search and previewed what the integration could look like with a few screenshots on the company’s search blog. In addition to Bing, Microsoft has already begun bringing ChatGPT-like functionality to its other software services such as Azure, Word, and Outlook.

Panos Panay, head of Windows and Devices has also mentioned how AI will power Windows development in the future, and we can responsibly expect to see possible ChatGPT integration come to Windows search, among other OS tools.

The next 48 hours should be pretty exciting for anyone invested in commercialized artificial intelligence via natural language queries.

What is Adobe AIR→ Do I Need It or Can I Delete It from My PC

Adobe is one of the largest software companies in the world, offering users a variety of software options that cover almost any creation-related activity. But what is Adobe AIR? In this guide, we’re going to answer that question.

What is Adobe AIR used for and do I need it?

Adobe AIR is what’s known as a runtime engine, or a runtime environment. A runtime engine is a program that other software depends on to run optimally.

So, Adobe AIR is a bit like an engine for running other Adobe software. And speaking of that, what programs use Adobe AIR?

Well, there are numerous rich internet apps that utilize the AIR runtime such as FlickrDesktop Search and FlickrFlipper, ImageDropr, Adobe Media Player, or ReadAir.

Of course, this is just a short selection of software options, but you can find detailed information about a suspected program by doing research online.

As you can see, you do need Adobe AIR for a wide range of AIR apps (see above). If you try to run certain software with AIR uninstalled, those apps might display an error message.

What does Adobe AIR do?

The Adobe AIR runtime engine is a cross-operating-system runtime that’s compatible with numerous platforms.

Therefore, Adobe Air isn’t just restricted to Windows as developers also utilize it for mobile and Apple Mac software.

The purpose of Adobe AIR is to enable developers to combine Adobe Flash, JavaScript, HTML, ActionScript, and Flex for the deployment of web apps on desktops, laptops, and other devices.

It enables developers to create web apps that you can utilize outside of browsers. Web apps that can be utilized outside of the browser are known as rich internet applications.

What is Adobe AIR on my computer? If you’ve spotted Adobe AIR on your desktop or laptop, then chances are you have some Adobe software that depends on its runtime engine.

If you come across an AdobeARM.exe file on your system, it’s related to Adobe’s automatic update manager. You can learn more about this process and how to handle it by visiting this guide on AdobeARM.exe.

Should I uninstall Adobe Air?

Now, all the information presented above is still available. Adobe AIR used to be all of that and it might still be (for a small percentage of users).

However, the Adobe AIR end of life date is upon us and there’s no way around it. Or is it? We shall see soon enough.

So, to answer your question: can I delete Adobe AIR? Yes, you can. To do so, simply follow the next steps:

  1. Press the Windows key + S keyboard shortcut.
  2. Type apps in the search box that opens.
  3. Click Apps & features to open the window shown directly below.
    Apps & features tab Do i need adobe air?
  4. Next, select Adobe AIR from the list.
  5. Click the Uninstall button for Adobe AIR.
  6. Then click Uninstall on the window that opens to confirm.

You might even find some Adobe programs on your desktop or laptop that you never installed yourself. Also known as PUP, those are programs that come bundled with other programs that need them

Now, you can, of course, use a dedicated PUP remover tool to clean the junk software.

Is Adobe AIR still supported?

Adobe has stopped supporting it since late 2020, just like they did with the Flash Player. And just as you had to remove Flash Player from your PC, you may also need to uninstall and delete Adobe AIR.

It is worth mentioning that Adobe discontinued AIR support for Linux platforms. However, we cannot speak of an Adobe AIR EOL in the conventional way.

In fact, support was not completely abandoned but has rather been passed over to Harman. So, is Adobe AIR safe? We think so.

The Harman company continues to provide both updates in terms of functionalities and support for AIR developers.

FAQ

What is Adobe AIR used for?

Adobe AIR is a runtime engine that allows developers to create cross-platform rich internet applications (RIAs) that run outside of web browsers.

Can I uninstall Adobe AIR from my computer?

Yes, you can uninstall Adobe AIR if you don’t use apps that depend on it. Simply go to Apps & Features and select Uninstall.

Is Adobe AIR still supported?

Adobe stopped supporting AIR in 2020, but Harman now provides updates and ongoing support for the platform.

Do I need Adobe AIR on my computer?

You only need Adobe AIR if you use desktop apps that require it. Otherwise, it can be safely uninstalled.

Overall, Adobe AIR is not essential if you seldom utilize apps that need it. However, users who make use of desktop web apps that might need AIR should keep it to ensure they can still run the apps.

Adobe once announced that there were more than one billion Adobe apps installed on various devices. So, there’s a pretty good chance you might have an AIR app on your system.

Windows 11 22H2 is full of bugs: Check them out here

Ever since Windows 11 was initially released on the 5th of October 2021, everyone has been patiently waiting for the first feature update for the new OS.

And, for those of you that don’t know, version 22H2 for Windows 11, also known as the 2022 update, has already been released by Microsoft a couple of weeks ago.

However, if you were thinking that this release was going to be a bug-free one, the truth couldn’t be farther from it.

In fact, immediately after the launch of version 22H2, users started assaulting forums and social media platforms, reporting numerous serious problems that came with the new update.

At some point, the Redmond-based tech colossus even blocked updates to version 22H2 because of some of these problems.

We had a look at these problems and now we are going to share them with you, so you know exactly what the 2022 update holds for you.

What bugs does Windows 11 version 22H2 come with?

We already knew that no software rollouts are perfect, and they all come with one or multiple experience-breaking bugs.

However, since Microsoft has put in so much work in Windows 11 recently, users thought that maybe this release wasn’t going to be this buggy.

That being said, version 22H2 came with some pretty serious problems, as you are about to see in this rundown.

Domain join processes may fail with the error 0xaac (2732)

The software giant has explained, domain join operations could just fail on all supported versions of Windows OS.

At first glance, it appears that the culprit is the batch of cumulative updates that were shipped to the operating system in October.

Thus, in other words, the one to blame is the October Patch Tuesday cycle, as they are causing domain join programs on Windows devices.

As a result, affected scenarios include some domain join or re-imaging operations where a PC account was created or pre-staged by a different identity than the identity used to join or re-join the computer to the domain

Keep in mind that, as security experts said, home users are very unlikely to experience the issue, so you can pretty much just carry on doing what you are doing without worries.

Microsoft has reassured customers that it’s already working on additional optimizations that could be part of further Windows updates.

The tech giant also said that KB5020276 is required to understand the designed behavior, mentioning that it has added insights to this KB, and is evaluating whether optimizations can be made in a future Windows Update.

Furthermore, this guidance will be updated once those changes have been released, though no further specifics on these future optimizations have been offered.

Task Manager no longer needed to fix Windows 11 Remote Desktop bug

If you have been using Windows 11 for some time, you know that back in November, Microsoft said that there were issues in its Remote Desktop services as the Remote Desktop Connection Broker was malfunctioning on Windows 11 22H2 systems.

This annoying issue was a result of some bug affecting the Microsoft Terminal Services Client (MSTSC) wherein the mstsc.exe file would stop responding.

Remember that MSTSC is the command line interface that helps manage Remote Desktop Connections by editing existing Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) files.

At the moment when the bug was first documented by Microsoft, the company asked affected users to simply terminate the MSTSC process using Task Manager as a workaround.

Further steps around the issue were also provided by the company which involved disabling the User Datagram Protocol or UDP using the Group Policy (GP) editor.

Two months later, the issue has finally been resolved by the Redmond giant in the latest Windows 11 22H2 KB5022360 update.

Note that the cumulative update also fixes several other bugs and issues, like a searchindexer problem that would cause sign-in and sign-out problems.

You can learn more about everything by visiting the dedicated article we’ve linked above. Also, if you’re not on version 22H2 yet, this update will automatically upgrade you from 21H2.

Start menu and UWP

The Redmond tech giant has now revealed details about a new known issue affecting the most recent Windows versions.

According to Microsoft, customers running Windows 10 and 11, both versions between 20H2 and 22H2, might experience problems with opening the Start menu, Windows Search, and various UWP apps.

Developers were already aware of the issue since the first reports of the situation emerged about a week ago, and now Microsoft has only confirmed it.

Even though users often blame Windows updates for everything wrong in this world, believe it or not, the problem is not related to Windows updates this time.

Microsoft mentioned that the culprit is damaged registry keys or data that affects applications using the Microsoft Office API, such as Barco’s ClickShare.

The company is now investigating the situation and promises to release a fix in one of the upcoming updates.

Meanwhile, we can mitigate the bug by uninstalling apps that integrate with Windows, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Outlook, or Microsoft Calendar.

Microsoft also recommends running several scripts as described in the official troubleshooting guidance or contacting app developers and asking for advice.

We will keep an eye on this resolution and keep you posted once new details are available in this new bug case.

ClickShare causes Office bugs, an unclickable Start menu and taskbar

You should know that, although not publicly disclosed yet, the Redmond company is investigating user reports about an unresponsive start menu or taskbar.

This bug is causing issues where the Start menu, the taskbar, or the Search bar, simply become unclickable, and it’s happening both on Windows 11 22H2 and Windows 10 22H2.

Early investigations show that it is a consequence of conflicts with Barco’s ClickShare app’s Calendar integration, an issue first documented last year.

As you know, ClickShare is pretty popular among users and IT admins due to its wireless conferencing capabilities. People at CLickShare have confirmed that the Redmond giant is now investigating the problem and the issue has been assigned an internal tracking number 41322218.

Apparently, the windows taskbar issue occurs when the User Shell Registry has been modified for some reason, such as Windows updates, changed passwords, any Apps using Microsoft Outlook API or other.

A more in-depth look has revealed that ClickShare does not modify Windows Registry values or permissions from the App.

Thus, the ClickShare app only reads Microsoft Outlook Calendar via the Microsoft Outlook API for the One Click Join feature.

Since this problem is still under investigation, all we have to do now is wait for Microsoft to come up with a tangible solution soon.

System Restore points break apps

The Windows System Restore is a maintenance tool that can save users a lot of time when their computers misbehave.

In fact, Restore points back up mission-critical software bits and pieces that allow restoring the operating system to the working state without clean-installing it and losing data.

That being said, unfortunately for Windows 11 22H2 users, Microsoft has confirmed that using System Restore points on its latest OS might break some apps and cause the This app can’t open error message.

There’s no need to be worried, as not all apps are affected by the problem. According to an official post on the Microsoft Support website, the bug breaks first and third-party applications that use the MSIX Windows app package format.

To give you a few examples of such apps, think of Notepad, Paint, Office, Cortana, and Terminal, among others.

If you have this problem, it will actually result in one or several of the following symptoms:

  • An error message “This app can’t open” is displayed instead of the app starting.
  • The app might have multiple entries on the Start menu.
  • An app may not respond when you try to start the app.
  • An I/O error may occur, followed by the app not responding, and then the app crashes.
  • If you try to start the app again, the app now runs.

If by chance, you run into this issue, the Redmond tech giant says that affected customers should try the following to mend the broken apps:

  • Open the app again
  • Reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store or the original source
  • Install available Windows updates

Microsoft is currently working on a permanent fix for this bug as well, so we’re going to keep an eye out for any development in the case.

File Explorer opens up randomly when accessing other apps

Everyone got really excited when they heard that the Windows 11 File Explorer will be getting a tab integration, taking multi-tasking to a whole new level.

However, there’s a catch. The File Explorer tabs integration is buggy, and it could pop up File Explorer when you’re actively using another app.

In fact, there are several posts on the Feedback Hub that confirm the fact that File Explorer will open by itself randomly while another open program is in focus.

Yes, it will do that even when File Explorer is not running. Users reported that opening any other app on top of it, say Edge or Firefox, and leaving it there for a few minutes, will trigger File Explorer to pop up unannounced.

File Explorer on Windows 11

Apparently, Microsoft is already working on a fix for File Explorer’s focus bug, but it’s not yet clear when the fix could arrive. Note that it is actually included in the latest preview builds.

Keep in mind that File Explorer tabs support is at least proof that Microsoft is listening to some of the feedback and is a notable example of how it’s catering to the productivity needs of the users.

We are all now waiting for this to become a much less buggy, much more stable experience for us all. Have you also encountered this bug?

You can’t safely eject media while Task Manger is open

The latest bug in this series will annoy those using the Safely Eject Media feature to the absolute core, from what we can tell from reports.

Just as it was shared by Deskmodder, users running the Windows 11 2022 Update (version 22H2) have a hard time removing USB drives when Task Manager is running.

Thus, instead of disconnecting a media from the computer, Windows 11 hangs for a few seconds and then displays an error with the following message:

Windows can’t stop your device because a program is still using it. Close any programs that might be using the device, and then try again later.

This annoying issue occurs when Task Manager is minimized or running with the Processes tab open, in case you were wondering.

That being said, know that you can easily bypass the issue by switching to another tab or simply exiting Task Manager.

As a matter of fact, some users say that continuous attempts to eject media force Windows 11 to give in, although the problem returns after a system restart.

Through the most recent Patch Tuesday security update release, the one for December 2022, Microsoft has managed to fix another nasty Task Manager issue.

The company has managed to fix a visual bug that was making Task Manager almost unreadable. Certain colors and UI elements were off the pace.

In fact, the Redmond-based tech giant described the issue in detail earlier on its health dashboard and provided a workaround.

You should know that this update addresses a known issue that might affect Task Manager, which might display certain elements in the user interface (UI) in unexpected colors.

Keep in mind that some parts of the UI might not be readable, and this issue might occur if you have to Choose your mode set to Custom in the Personalization/Colors section of the Settings app.

Performance issues on AMD Ryzen 7000 CPUs

With the recent Windows 11 version 22H2 release, it looks like a new problem is bugging the Zen 4-based Ryzen 7000 series CPUs.

You should definitely know that CapFrameX (CFX) has discovered that when a single CCD (CPU Compute Die) on the 16-core Ryzen 9 7950X is active, the configuration is able to outperform the default dual CCD 7950X.

That means that each Zen 4 CCD features eight cores along with its cache, among other things hence essentially, an octa-core Zen 4 CPU is able to beat out the higher core count 16 core variant.

In order to better understand the issue and assess the scenarios affecting the problem, two other instances were tested, and simultaneous multi-threading (SMT) was disabled.

Thus, in a single CCD situation with SMT disabled, the 16-core 32-thread 7950X was now reduced to an eight-core CPU with eight threads.

Also, keep in mind that this does not seem like a one-off case either as other seasoned hardware benchmarkers noticed similar problems on their RTX 4090 test system.

Installation error 0x800f0806

Only a couple of days after the tech giant rolled out the first major update for Windows 11, users were confronted with the first major issue.

Besides the 2022 update causing some pretty nasty problems with Nvidia GPUs, it seems that the installation for the update itself is failing for some people.

Error code 0x800f0806 is all users see when they try to update their Windows 11 version to 22H2. Needless to say that this caught even Redmond developers off guard.

Apparently, you get this error when you try to do an in-place upgrade via Windows Update in Settings due to some compatibility issue or something similar.

That being said, know that a clean install though is seemingly working fine since nobody has complained about it yet.

Before we start, remember that Windows 10 will also receive its very own version 22H2 this month, so we are keeping our eyes peeled.

Nvidia GPU issues

Another major bug discovered in the 22H2 version was affecting Nvidia graphic cards, decreasing frame rates significantly, and resulting in high CPU usage as well.

This problem seems to be related to overlays on games, but you no longer have to worry about it since it has been fixed.

Before that, if you’re playing a game and you want to check its performance, pressing Alt + R to make the GeForce Experience performance overlay show up would have made your game begin to stutter really badly.

That being said, in titles such as God of War, users have reported up to an 87.5% reduction in framerates from bringing up the overlay.

Remote desktop connection issues

According to more reports from regular users and IT admins published on Microsoft’s forums and other social media, Windows 11 has a hard time connecting to remote desktops after upgrading to version 22H2.

Furthermore, symptoms can vary from case to case and include problems with connecting, random disconnections, and freezes.

IT admins can also configure a special Group Policy on affected endpoints by using the Group Policy Management Console (managed devices) or the Group Policy Editor (unmanaged devices) and enabling Turn Off UDP On Client.

Remote Desktop sessions which connect over WAN (wide-area network) might experience poor performance following the application of the below workaround, according to Microsoft.

There is now a workaround provided by Microsoft itself, so you should definitely check that out while the company is working towards fixing the problem.

Microsoft hasn’t yet come up with a fix patch for this problem, so the only option you have is actually rolling back this update.

We will keep you updated and let you know when installing and using Windows 11 version 22H2 is safe to use.

Printing issues

According to a recent post in the official Windows 11 Health Dashboard documentation, we’ve learned that the situation is even worse than we initially thought.

Systems that have already updated and are running Windows 11 2022 (22H2) can encounter problems detecting all the features in printers using Microsoft IPP Class Driver or Universal Print Class Driver.

That being said, if the operating system cannot connect to the printer, it automatically defaults to a standard feature set.

Once the connection is restored, a bug prevents Windows from printing color, two-sided or duplex printing, paper size and type settings, resolutions, and so forth.

Kernel security check failure

You surely know by now that some users have reported seeing the Kernel Security Check Failure error message in the BSOD screen that is caused by some failing processes on their PCs.

That being said, this issue is not the most difficult to solve, thankfully, as we’ve shown you in our dedicated fix article.

The Kernel Security Check Failure error will let you know that some important system files or components failed integrity or compatibility check.

Now, in truth, the easiest way around it is to replace or update these files or components. But you won’t longer have to deal with this problem, according to Microsoft.

Alongside the new features, Windows 11 Dev build 25252 also fixes the problem where network-to-local copying (for example, when copying a file from a network share) was slower than expected from some users.

Microsoft has recently released the final Windows 11 Dev Channel build for Insiders yesterday in the form of build 25267.

You should know that this latest build resolves one of the major issues on Windows 11 22H2 that was causing slowdowns when copying large files over networks.

As we’ve mentioned, this copy kernel issue was apparently affecting local files too, and although it was suspected to be related to the SMB initially, it was later found to be much more deep-rooted.

Now, the Principal Program Manager in the Microsoft Windows Server High Availability and Storage group, has updated the blog post that described the issue.

Thus, know that an updated version of this preview fix is now available in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25267.

This version fixed an issue where restartable copies of a file (for example using robocopy) with alternate data streams were hanging frequently in the latest Dev Channel builds.

The Redmond official also mentioned an update as Microsoft had already released an initial fix for the bug in a previous Windows build 25252.

As you would have imagined, this is still in preview and Pyle says that the final fix will be released publicly later in a monthly update.

So, the final fix for Windows 11 22H2 production computer will come in a normal monthly Cumulative Update through Windows Update once validated in Insider builds.

Even though the issue was first suspected to be related to the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, Microsoft confirmed later that it was a problem somewhere in the kernel.

Thus, local file copy speeds were also affected. Moreover, some users also reported a far worse performance hit than initially thought.

Broken provisioning

Microsoft has recently issued a warning to IT admins who are responsible for deploying Windows updates on their organization’s systems.

Why? Well, the tech giant realized that provisioning is currently broken for Windows 11 22H2 and this can lead to an incomplete, partially configured out-of-box experience.

As if that wasn’t already enough for IT Admins, know that you also run the risk that the systems may even restart unexpectedly.

So, if you are working on anything, kiss all those changes goodbye. However, Windows devices used by users in their homes or small offices are not likely to be affected by this issue.

Some useful advice would be to provision the Windows device before upgrading to Windows 11, version 22H2, this will prevent the issue.

Performance degradation in Windows 11 22H2 when copying large files

Just when you thought this list couldn’t get any longer, we have to report yet another serious problem affecting this version of the latest operating system.

Windows 11 users that have already installed the 2022 Update users can experience up to 40% less throughput over SMB when copying large files weighing several gigabytes or more.

You have to know that this bug does not affect the initial release of Windows 11, so those sticking to the previous release will not experience issues with copying from a remote computer.

The above-mentioned bug is not exclusive to SMB, which means users might notice performance dips even when copying local files.

Furthermore, while the issue was initially thought to be affecting the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol mainly, Microsoft’s Ned Pyle has now confirmed that their initial suspicion was a bit off.

Apparently, the problem is that Windows is actually getting slower in Kernel, nothing to do with SMB or compression.

The company said that to mitigate this issue, you can use file copy tools that do not use cache manager (buffered I/O).

And, while Microsoft is busy investigating the problem and figuring out the fix, affected customers can use robocopy or xcopy with the /J parameter to restore the lost performance.

Gaming issues

No, gaming hasn’t been at all immune from the 2022 feature update as the Redmond company finally acknowledged gaming performance issues on the new Windows version after several user and reviewer complaints.

Surprisingly, just as you would have imagined, this has led Microsoft to put an upgrade block or safeguard hold on all affected devices.

And, while the bug is leading to such problems that have not been fully resolved yet, Microsoft has published an update on the matter partially removing the block.

Starting today, November 22, the safeguard hold with the safeguard ID of 41990091 has been updated to only safeguard Windows devices that have one of the small subsets of games and apps which are still affected by this issue.

How can I roll back the Windows 11 22H2 update?

  1. Press Win + I to access Settings.
  2. Select the Windows Update tab, then click on Advanced options.Windows update advanced options
  3. Click on Recovery.recovery
  4. Under Recovery options, press the Go back button.go back windows update
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

These are all the documented bugs that are affecting users running the 22H2 version of the Windows 11 operating system.

If you have found any other problems while testing this new version, make sure to report it to Microsoft and in the comments section below.

Error Code 2755: How to Fix This Windows Installer Issue

The installation process for apps and programs on Windows PCs follows a particular order and requires some essential functionality. If these factors are not intact, users may encounter errors when installing an app package.

The Windows Installer error code 2755 is an error that appears when there’s an issue with the installation process. You can also check our article about this Installation Package could not be opened error and the ways to fix it on Windows 11.

What causes the error code 2755?

Windows Installer error code 2755 indicates that the installer has encountered an error when installing the package. It can occur due to many factors impeding the installation process. Some are:

  • Issues with Windows Installer folder – When the Windows Installer folder is unavailable, it can affect the installation process. It prevents the package from accessing the necessary files and components for installing the .exe app file.
  • Permission issues – Windows sometimes demands a certain level of privilege before users can make notable changes and additions to the system. So, you can run into errors when installing a program on your computer if there is an irregularity in the permissions.
  • Virus and Malware – Virus and malware infection on your computer can impede the installation process. It can corrupt the registry files needed for the process, resulting in the Windows Installer Error Code 2755. Check our list to select the best virus-removal tool to cleanse your device.
  • Issues with the installation setup package – The installation package you’re trying to install may be damaged. So, it can cause the system to be unable to run it, prompting the error message to appear.

Other factors not listed above may be responsible for the error, depending on the circumstances. Nevertheless, we’ll take rib through some general solutions to resolve the error.

How can I fix the error code 2755?

Go through the following checks before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting steps:

If you can fix the problem, proceed with these solutions.

1. Verify that the Windows Installer is running

  1. Press Windows + R key to open the Run dialog box and type services.msc, then press Enter to open Services.
  2. Scroll down to Windows Installer and right-click, then select Properties from the drop-down.
  3. Set the Startup type to Automatic and click the Start button.
  4. Click the Apply button and OK.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the installation process will run properly.

Ensuring the Windows Installer service is running allows your system to install new programs.

2. Redownload and add SYSTEM as User for the Setup File

  1. Redownload the Installation setup file from a trusted source and go to the Downloads folder.
  2. Right-click on the applications setup file and select Properties from the drop-down.
  3. Select the Security tab and click on the Edit… button under the Group or user names section.
  4. In the Permissions window, click the Add button.
  5. Go to the Object name section, type SYSTEM (in uppercase) in the text box, then click on the Check names button and then click on OK.
  6. Check the box for Full Control in the Allow column in the Permissions window.
  7. Click on Apply, then OK to save the changes.
  8. Restart your PC and check if the App setup installation file will run properly.

The above steps will fix permission issues liable to impede the installation process. Also, it grants the file full access to run.

3. Update Windows Operating System

  1. Press Windows + I key to open the Settings app.
  2. Select Windows Update and click the Check for updates button. If there are any updates available, it will search for and install them.

Updating Windows helps fix the bugs affecting the system’s performance. It resolves compatibility issues impeding the installation process.

Read about fixing Windows not connecting to update service if the error occurs on your PC.

4. Turn off Encryption in the Applications Setup file

  1. Go to the location of the installer file you want to install, right-click on it, and select Properties from the drop-down.
  2. Navigate to the General tab and click on the Advanced button.
  3. In the Advanced Attributes window, uncheck the boxes for Compress contents to save disk space and Encrypt contents to secure data.
  4. Click on Apply, then OK to save the changes.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Turning off the Encryption option in the installer file will resolve file access issues preventing it from installing.

In conclusion, our readers may also be interested in the Windows cannot install required files error on Windows 11.

Microsoft allegedly working on Windows 11 Moment 3 update

As we are sure you know by now, back in November 2022, Microsoft started enabling its upcoming Windows 11 Moment 3 update for the first time.

Back then, users found traces of the upcoming feature update in Dev Channel builds. Yes, it was also around this same time that Microsoft moved into the Zinc development semester.

We have some information for you today that we’re pretty sure you are going to like, especially if you are a Windows 11 aficionado.

Windows 11 Moment 3 update coming later in 2023

We know that you want to know more, so know that internal test IDs revealed that the Redmond giant had begun enabling Moment 3, and even Moment 4, features in the Dev channel.

Until now, anything and everything around Moment 3 revolved around the Dev Channel. That being said, things are now starting to spill over to the Beta Channel as well, indicating that future Moment 3 features are now moving in slightly closer to the general availability.

Users started posting about this on Twitter after noticing mentions of future Beta channel builds 23141 and 23145 in the recent Beta channel releases.

Tech-savvy users now speculate that the new build numbers are indicative of Windows 11 Moment 3 and that the mentions were found in the Microsoft Symbol Server. 

The talk now is that this might actually be hinting at the ongoing debugging and development efforts by the company.

This makes a lot more sense as earlier reports had suggested that Windows 11 22H2 Moment 3 could be out in May this year. 

Now, further reports suggest it will be followed by Moment 4 later in the year when Windows 11 version 23H2 will be released.

Be sure to check out all the available information on Windows 11 version 22H2. We can show you how to install it, and also the bugs it still has.

Please keep in mind that it is important to understand that this is only speculation for now until we get official confirmation from Microsoft.

With no exact release date, all that’s left to do now is wait for Microsoft to reveal more information. Leave a comment below informing us about your feelings on the topic.

My Printer and Phone Won’t Connect: 4 Easy Solutions

Most modern wireless printers allow users to print directly from their mobile phones. It makes things all the easier and more seamless. But for many, the printer and phone won’t connect.

This presents a major problem, especially when their idea of getting a wireless printer was to access it directly from the mobile phone. So, let’s find out why it happens and how you can fix things in no time.

Why won’t my phone connect to my printer?

Here are a few reasons your phone and printer won’t connect:

  • Incorrect network configuration: In several cases, it was an incorrect or invalid network configuration that prevented the connection between the two devices.
  • Devices on different networks: For users to print from their phones, the devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network. If that’s not the case, it won’t work.
  • Relevant features are not enabled: Many printers support the Wi-Fi Direct feature, but it’s not turned on by default. So that could be the reason your printer and phone won’t connect.

What can I do if my printer and phone won’t connect?

Before we start making major changes, here are a few quick tricks:

  • Check whether the printer supports printing via a mobile phone. Though most new models do offer the features, it’s missing in several of the old ones.
  • Make sure the printer and the phone are on the same Wi-Fi network. If your router supports dual-band, i.e., 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, it’s all the more important that you verify this.
  • Restart all three devices, the printer, the phone, and the router, and then try establishing a connection.
  • If you can’t connect to other devices on the network but just not to your phone, check whether a VPN is enabled. And if that’s the case, ensure that Allow LAN traffic (or a similar feature) is enabled within the VPN app.
  • Look for a reset button on the printer and hold it for a few seconds to perform a reset. Or you could look through the printer’s manual for the exact steps to reset it.

If these don’t work, head to the solutions listed next.

1. Connect the printer via the IP address

  1. Open your phone, head to the Default Print Service, and choose a printer from the list.
  2. If yours doesn’t appear, click on the ellipsis, and then choose Add printer by IP address.add printer by ip address to fix my printer and phone wont connect
  3. Enter the IP address for the printer to get things running.

A quick way to fix things when your printer won’t connect to the phone is to establish a connection using the IP address. Though, for older models, connecting a printer via Bluetooth should do fine.

2. Change the network settings

Note icon NOTE
You would require a computer to change the network settings for the printer. So make sure you have one on the same network. Also, the steps here are for an HP printer, though the idea remains the same.
  1. Enter the printer’s IP address in a browser to open its settings.
  2. Now, head to the Network tab, choose IPv4 Configuration, and click on Suggest a New Manual IP Address.suggest manual IP address
  3. Wait for it to apply, then under DNS Address Configuration, choose Manual DNS Server and enter the following:
    • Manual Preferred DNS Server: 8.8.8.8
    • Manual Alternate DNS Server: 8.8.4.4
  4. Once done, click on Apply to save the changes, and then try connecting the printer to your phone.

3. Clear print spooler on the phone

  1. Open the Settings on your Android phone, and tap on Apps.apps
  2. Select the ellipsis at the top right.ellipsis
  3. Choose Show system apps from the menu.show system apps
  4. Locate and tap on Print Spooler.Print spooler to fix my printer and phone wont connect
  5. Now, select Storage.storage
  6. Finally, tap on both Clear data and Clear cache.clear data and cache to fix my printer and phone wont connect

That’s it. In some cases, users could fix things when their printer won’t connect to the phone by clearing the data and cache for Print Spooler. So, make sure you try that.

4. Use AirPrint (for iPhone users)

Apple iPhone users can easily connect to the printer and take prints using the AirPrint functionality. All you have to do is verify that the printer supports it. Check the manual or the official website for the same.

With AirPrint, you can directly print a document in a few seconds. Just tap on the share icon, choose Print, select a compatible printer, and you are good to go.

That’s it! One of the solutions listed here should have helped you get things running when the printer won’t connect to a phone. Also, check the best printers with feeder scanners in the market.

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

Extend your Reach With Moosend Email Marketing Software [Review]

Using an email marketing service is paramount for business growth in a lot of sectors. You need fast, easy, and accurate reach to your target audience.

In that respect, Moosend is a popular email marketing tool among eCommerce stores, bloggers, publishers, and small businesses.

What is Moosend and how can it help you?

Moosend is an email marketing tool that offers automation, segmentation and reporting features to help you engage with your clients.

Not only that it tracks your website to supervise the visitors’ behavior, but it comes with wide integration for more than 38 third-party services.

Moreover, you may use Zapier to sync to all eCommerce, CRM, or other software you need in the process.

The UI is extremely friendly, with drag-and-drop functionality and you’ve got more than 75 pre-made email templates to get you started.

But is Moosend the right tool for you or your business? We reviewed this email marketing solution so you can find out!

What are Moosend’s best features?

1. Great selection of templates

Moosend comes with a huge assortment of email templates with a modern design premade for a lot of usage scenarios.

From the left menu, you may choose the domain and type of newsletter and in the main window, you may preview and select the one that better serves your purpose.

There are over 75 there and you will definitely find something to start from and edit it to your needs.

However, you may also use your own. You can import it from an online source by entering the link or HTML code, or directly from your PC.

Nevertheless, after you customize and edit your template, you can save and use it every time you need to.

2. Simple and efficient email campaign editor

It’s essential to have an easy-to-use newsletter editor and the one from Moosend is extremely straightforward.

On the left pane, you’ve got the layouts, items, and settings, in the center you have the actual result and, on the right, there are, of course, all the contextual settings for all the objects you select.

We’ve worked with other such tools, and Moosend doesn’t offer anything out of the ordinary in this aspect.

However, we found it very easy and intuitive to use. All the menus and settings are right where you expect to find them.

You can add lots of free images from Unsplash & Giphy

Whether you’re writing news, products, or events, with Moosend, you will find just the right image to illustrate it.

That’s because it’s connected to Unsplash and Giphy, but you may also get all your images stored in your cloud drives or even point out one with the direct link.

Another interesting feature of the editor is the Personalization Tags you can include in any type of merge field.

If you select the merge tag from the drop-down menu, Moosend will replace it with personalized information for each subscriber to your newsletter.

Another smart block to include is the Countdown Timer. If you have a special time-limited offer, the timer will signal the remaining duration for the offer.

3. Efficient automation feature

The automation features in Moosend are basically limitless. You can personalize virtually any action of your subscribers and perform additional steps to engage them.

This feature is extremely simple to use because it’s designed as a flowchart, but it comes with complex choices and conditions.

Not only that the Automation editor is modern looking and very straightforward, but it is also very efficient.

It’s based on a three steps process, like any logical diagram. You set a trigger such as when someone opens a campaign, then set a condition or filter, and finally, define an action.

A set of actions based on a Yes or No condition

For instance, if someone opens a certain link, wait for a defined period of time, and send a message to the subscriber with an offer to a product connected to that article.

However, the possibilities and combinations of triggers, filters, and actions are only limited to your understanding of the marketing process.

Everything is color coded, easy to comprehend, and structuring the chart can be a really enjoyable task.

Ready-made workflows can be customized quickly

But if you don’t want to take things from scratch, Moosend offers plenty of pre-made such recipes.

There are 18 charts available and ready to be customized based on your needs but at least you have a starting point.

4. Extensive reporting

The results of your email campaign are the most important when it comes to discussing its efficiency.

That’s why it’s important to receive accurate reports based on which to shape your future marketing strategy.

With Moosend, you get all the data you need, from clicks on each button, product, and offer but also the numbers of unsubscribers, the region from where they clicked, and lots more information.

Add widgets to customize your reports

Furthermore, you can personalize your reports with a lot of widgets that will filter the exact information you need.

Of course, all the reports can be saved in CVS format to use them further and integrate them into other statistical data.

With Moosend the reports are not limited to performance. For instance, The Track Recipient Activity report displays how each recipient interacted with and reacted to your email marketing campaign. 

It also tracks link clicks with a map that displays your newsletter with bubbles indicating how many times each link has been clicked.

The Track email clients and devices report shows you the different devices, email clients, browsers, and operating systems your recipients use to view your campaigns.

Long story short, every single reporting option is covered and you can personalize it to pinpoint your precise interests.

5. Create landing pages in minutes

You would think that creating a landing page is difficult, but with Moosend, this task is as easy as building a newsletter.

Of course, you get to choose from 38 templates that match the email campaign ones. And the page editor works and looks almost exactly like the one for newsletters.

That can be extremely useful because if you already know how to work with the first one, creating a landing page will be a piece of cake.

All the layouts are flexible to customize from the text font to images, spaces, backgrounds, and every other element.

A neat trick from Moosend is that you can resize the image right there, in the editor, you don’t need to do that before uploading it, a detail that will save you a lot of time.

You can share the landing page and publish it in one go

And once you have done with the layout and content, it’s very easy to share it on social media (Facebook & Twitter) and publish it on Moosend’s platform or on your WordPress website.

For the second option, it’s only a matter of installing the WordPress plugin and managing the inclusion.

6. Huge array of integrations

As we’ve mentioned at the beginning of this review, Moosend offers 38 third-party integrations that cover all possible areas of interest.

The list includes CRM tools, list validation services, platforms for lead generation but also e-commerce, and more.

Integrating an e-commerce platform like Magento, will allow you to get product listings on your newsletters and automate upsells.

Note that when you set up your website in the beginning, if you choose e-commerce, that will also trigger the sales reports features. Otherwise, you won’t get them as you don’t need them in other domains.

How much do I pay for Moosend?

First, you can try Moosend for 30 days as a free trial version and you don’t need to provide any credit card information.

For this option, you get unlimited emails, and automation workflows and you can make one landing page and one form.

If you decide that Moosend is the right thing for you or your business, you can go for a Pro plan and customize it for your number of subscribers.

The lowest Pro plan goes for only $9 per month for a maximum of 500 subscribers but if you choose the annual payment, the rate lowers to $7.

It’s important to note that the Pro plan also comes with an SMTP server.

There is also an Enterprise plan available that you may customize to your exact needs and by completing a preliminary form, you will get a personalized quotation.

Moosend

Create the most engaging newsletters, landing pages, and forms to grow your business!
Free trial Visit website

You can try Moosend 30 days for free before committing to any paid plans!

Pros
Simple and comprehensive user interface
Plenty of email templates to choose from
Cloud-based app available from any location and on virtually any device
Friendly editor for newsletters and landing pages
Great reporting customization
Extensive automation features with pre-made recipes
Cons
There is no free plan, only a free trial option

Final thoughts

First of all, working with Moosend is extremely easy and the learning curve for the tool is very steep.

If you have a small business and you’ve just started communication with your clients, this solution will fall right into place.

However, it will work just as well if you have thousands of subscribers thanks to Moosend’s automation features.

And the reporting system will cover all the necessary information you need, whether there are sales reports or customer engagement in any way.

We found it to have great value for its array of features and functionality, so we strongly recommend testing it.

Hoping that this review provided all the needed information, we also invite you to look at our list of the best CRM and email marketing software.

Have you tried Moosend yet? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments section below.

Standard Hardware Security Not Supported [Error Fix]

Some users have been complaining that they see a notification in their Windows Security app that says, Standard hardware security not supported.

At the same time, this error seems to appear even if the device meets the standards for hardware security, and has the latest drivers, Windows updates, and BIOS firmware installed.

What does it mean by standard hardware security not supported?

Having said that, this message occurs when your device does not meet at least one of the requirements of standard hardware security:

  • The device has TPM 2.0 (security processor), and it’s enabled
  • Secure boot is enabled
  • DEP is turned on (Data Execution Prevention)
  • UEFI MAT ((Unified Extensible Firmware Interface Memory Memory Attributes Table)
  • CPU Virtualization is enabled

What causes standard hardware security not supported?

So, if you see the Standard hardware security not supported error notification in Windows 11, it could be because:

  • The minimum requirements for hardware security are not met – It could be possible that the TPM 2.0, secure boot, or virtualization is not enabled in the BIOS settings.
  • Outdated system drivers – If the drivers are not updated to the latest version, this may trigger the standard hardware security not supported error.
  • BIOS firmware not updated – Chances are that you see the error notification due to outdated BIOS firmware.
  • Corrupted Windows update – Sometimes, it could be a corrupted Windows update causing the error.
  • Recurrent Windows 11 bug – In many cases, it has been reported that the standard hardware security not supported error shows up due to a bug in the OS.

What can I do if standard hardware security is not supported on Windows 11?

Before you move over to the main section to try the primary methods, here are a few quick checks:

However, if none of the above steps help you eliminate the standard hardware security not supported error, we have some expert tips to fix the issue.

1. Enable Data Execution Prevention (DEP)

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue. Type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter to open System Properties. sysdm.cpl command
  2. Now, select the Advanced tab, and under Performance, click on Settings.performance settings
  3. Next, go to the Data Execution Prevention tab, and select Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only option. Press Apply and OK. Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only

Now, restart your PC and check if you could successfully fix the standard hardware security not supported error in Windows 11 or if you still see the notification.

2. Enable BIOS settings

  1. Access BIOS on your PC, select UEFI Firmware Settings, and select Expert mode.
  2. Here, go to CPU settings or System Configuration, look for either Intel Virtualization Technology, Virtualization Technology, VT-x, AMD-V, or SVM, and set it to Enable. enable virualizartion
  3. This enables Core isolation in Windows Security.
  4. Next, under the Advance tab, navigate to System Agent Configuration or North Bridge Configuration, and enable VT-d or IOMMU to enable Memory integrity in Windows Security.enable vt-d
  5. Now, enable Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT) or the AMD equivalent, and the motherboard chipset acts as a TPM. This enables the Security processor in Windows Security. enable Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT)
  6. Next, enable Secure Boot, and select Install default Secure Boot keys. select Install default Secure Boot keys
  7. Here, select Windows UEFI mode for OS type. This will turn on Secure boot in Windows Security.select windows UEFI mode
  8. Press F10 to save and exit.

Now, open the Windows Security app, and the standard hardware security not supported notification should be gone.

You will now see that Core isolation, Security processor, and Secure boot options are enabled in Windows security.

3. Downgrade to Windows 10 and upgrade again

  1. Downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10 using the Windows 10 installation media.
  2. Now that you are done setting up, click on the Windows Security icon in the system tray. click on windows security icon
  3. Next, in the Windows Security app, click on Device Security on the left. Now, on the right, go to Core Isolation and click on Core isolation details. Core isolation details
  4. On the next screen, go to Memory integrity, and turn it on to scan for Incompatible Drivers. Memory integrity
  5. You can now pick a driver remover to completely uninstall all traces of the incompatible drivers.
  6. Repeat steps 2 to 5 again, and see if there are incompatible drivers. If not, enable it and restart the computer.
  7. Finally, upgrade your PC to Windows 11 using the Windows 11 ISO, and the standard hardware security not supported error should be fixed.

You can also follow the instructions in our detailed post to learn how to downgrade Windows 11 to 10 on a new laptop.

4. Reregister Windows Security App using PowerShell

  1. Press the Win + R shortcut keys to open the Run console. Type in Powershell, and press the Ctrl + Shift + Enter keys together to launch the elevated Powershell window. run powershell command
  2. Now, run the below command in the Powershell (Admin) window and hit Enter: PowerShell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted -Command "& {$manifest = (Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.SecHealthUI*).InstallLocation + '\AppxManifest.xml' ; Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $manifest}"reregister windows security app
  3. Once the command executes successfully, close PowerShell and restart the PC. This should help you fix the standard hardware security error in Windows 11.

To know more on how to reinstall Windows Security on Windows 11, you can refer to our detailed guide for more information.

5. Reinstall the Windows Security Platform

  1. Download the latest version of the Windows Security app. Now, create a restore point, and then unzip the downloaded ZIP file on the desktop.
  2. Next, press the Win + E keys to open File Explorer, navigate to C:\Windows\System32\SecurityHealth, right-click on the setup file, and select Properties. open securityhealthsetup properties
  3. Now, follow the below path to change to Administrators, and take ownership of that folder: Properties > Security tab, > Advanced > Owner > Change > Select User or Group > Advancedclick on Advanced
  4. In the next window, click on Find Now, go to the Search results, select Administrators, and press OK.select administrators
  5. In the Select User or Group dialog, click on Check Names and press OK. check names
  6. Now, in the Advanced Security Settings window, select Replace owner on sub containers and objects, press Apply and OK to save the changes, and return to the Properties dialog. select Replace-owner-on-sub-containers-and-objects
  7. Here, under Group or user names, select Administrators, and click on Edit. edit administrators permissions
  8. Next, in the Permissions window, select Administrators, and check the Allow box next to Full Control. Press Apply and then OK. take full control
  9. Back in the SecurityHealth folder in the File Explorer window, copy the 1.0.2207.20002-0 folder, and paste it on the Desktop to the SecurityHealth folder. copy 1.0.2207.20002-0 folder to desktop
  10. Now, you can open the folder and run the application Microsoft.SecHealthUI_8wekyb3d8bbwe.appx as an administrator.

Once done, restart your PC, and check if this helps eliminate the standard hardware security error.

Also, you must check if the BIOS is updated. If not, then update the BIOS firmware to the latest version to fix the standard hardware security not supported issue.

Besides, if your device already meets the hardware security standards, you can simply access the BIOS settings, disable the virtualization and enable it again.

If none of the above methods work, you may do a clean install of Windows 11 using a USB, and this should help you get rid of the issue.

For any other queries related to Windows 11 or the Windows Security app, do let us know in the comments section below.

Fix: Hidden Network Can’t Connect To This Network

Many users reported Windows can’t connect to a hidden network. While you should be able to connect by entering the correct SSID and password, that won’t always work.

But don’t worry, in this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know to successfully connect to a hidden network on your Windows PC.

How do I fix the hidden WiFi network?

1. Manually connect to the hidden SSID network

  1. Go to Network and Sharing Center.
    Connect to hidden WiFi network Windows 7
  2. Select the name of your hidden Wi-Fi connection.
    How to find hidden WiFi networks on Windows 10
  3. On the Wi-Fi Status box > click on Wireless Properties.
    Hidden WiFi network setup
  4. Check the box Connect even if the network is not broadcasting its name.
    Discover hidden WiFi network

Sometimes in order to connect to the hidden wireless network, you need to make a few changes to your network connection. To do that, follow the steps described above.

This quick workaround should fix your Wifi hidden network problem, and your computer should automatically connect to your default network.

2. Turn off your Bluetooth

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. When the Settings app opens, navigate to the Devices section.
    How to find hidden WiFi networks on Windows 10
  3. Now, select Bluetooth from the menu on the left and disable Bluetooth from the right pane.
    How to find hidden WiFi networks on Windows 10

After doing that, the Bluetooth will be disabled and you should be able to connect to a hidden WiFi network without any issues.

If you want to quickly disable Bluetooth, you can do it right from the Action Center. To do that, simply follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + A to open the Action Center.
  2. Now locate Bluetooth and click to disable it.
    Connect to hidden WiFi network Windows 7

If removing the Bluetooth device failed, you can also try to disable Bluetooth from Device Manager. To do that, just follow these steps:

  1. Open Win + X menu by pressing Windows Key + X. Now select Device Manager from the list.
    Hidden WiFi network setup
  2. When Device Manager opens, locate your Bluetooth device, right-click it and choose Disable device from the menu.
    Discover hidden WiFi network
  3. A confirmation dialog will now appear. Click on Yes to confirm.
    How to find hidden WiFi networks on Windows 10

Once the Bluetooth is disabled, try to connect to a hidden wireless network and check if the problem is resolved.

3. Temporarily turn on SSID broadcasting

  1. Right-click the network icon in your Taskbar and choose Open Network & Internet settings.
    Connect to hidden WiFi network Windows 8
  2. When the new window appears, scroll all the way down and click on Network and Sharing Center.
    How to find hidden WiFi networks on Windows 10
  3. Network and Sharing Center window will now appear. Click on Set up a new connection or network.
    Hidden WiFi network setup
  4. Now select Manually connect to a wireless network and click Next.
    Hidden WiFi network setup
  5. Enter the required information such as Network name, Security type, and Security Key. Keep in mind that you need to enter the correct information or else you won’t be able to find and access your network.
  6. Also, be sure to enable Connect even if the network is not broadcasting and Start this connection automatically options. Once you’re done, click Next to proceed.
    Discover hidden WiFi network

After you enter the necessary information, check if the problem still persists. If the problem is still present, you need to log in to your router and temporarily turn on the SSID broadcasting feature.

Then, connect to your wireless network and turn off SSID broadcasting once again.

4. Check your power management options

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Locate your network adapter on the list and double-click it to open its properties.
  3. Navigate to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power option.
  4. Now click OK to save changes.
    Discover hidden WiFi network

After making these changes, your PC should be able to connect to a hidden network without too many issues.

According to users, in order to connect to a hidden network, your network adapter should be prevented from going to sleep. This isn’t hard, and you can change this setting by following the steps described above.

5. Forget the wireless network

  1. Open the list of available networks.
  2. There you should see Hidden network on the list.
  3. Select it and click on Forget.
    Connect to hidden WiFi network Windows 10

If you’re having problems connecting to a hidden wireless network, you might be able to fix the problem simply by forgetting the network.

After doing that, manually connect to the hidden network and check if that solves the problem. This is just a workaround, but it works according to users, so we encourage you to try it out.

6. Select the hidden network from the list of networks

  1. Click the WiFi icon on your Taskbar.
  2. A list of available networks will now appear. Select Hidden Network and check the Connect automatically option.
  3. Now click the Connect button.
  4. Enter the name (SSID) of the hidden network. Be sure to enter the correct name or else you won’t be able to connect to the hidden network.
  5. Now enter the password for that network and click Next.
  6. When asked whether you want to make your PC discoverable on the network, click Yes.
  7. Keep in mind to select Yes only if you’re using a home network that you trust.

According to users, you can connect to a hidden WiFi network simply by selecting it from the list of networks. After doing that, you should be able to connect to a hidden network without any issues.

Hidden networks can be useful since they can hide from the public, but any user that has the required information can easily access them.

As you can see, certain issues can occur while trying to connect to a hidden network, but we hope that you managed to solve them using one of our solutions.

[Fixed] NVIDIA GeForce Experience: Something Went Wrong

The GeForce Experience client by Nvidia is an all-in-one suite covering everything from in-game screenshots to live streams and graphics optimization.

However, GFE won’t do you good if you can’t access it. And Something went wrong, try rebooting your PC error on Nvidia GeForce Experience is a widespread issue bothering many of the community.

We listed some solutions which should help you address this. Check them out below.

How do I fix Something went wrong error in Nvidia GeForce Experience?

1. Run Nvidia GeForce Experience as an administrator

  1. Right-click on the Nvidia GeForce Experience client and open Properties.
    properties app nvidia geforce experience something went wrong
  2. Select the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check the Run this program as an administrator box.
    run as
  4. Finally, click OK to confirm the changes.

Some features of the app might get limited if you’re not running the application as an administrator. This might be the reason you are experiencing the Nvidia GeForce Experience something went wrong issue with error code 0x0003 or 0x0001.

Therefore, we’ll need you to grant Nvidia GFE administrative permissions. This helped some users on Windows 7, so it might be worth a try on Windows 10.

2. Install the latest GPU drivers

  1. In the Windows Search bar, type Advanced and open View advanced system settings.advanced system settings
  2. Select the Hardware tab.
  3. Click on the Device installation settings.
    prevent windows 10 from updating drivers
  4. Choose No and confirm changes.
  5. Now, navigate to Nvidia’s official support site and download the latest driver for your device.
  6. Finally, run the installer and restart your PC.

Whether you double-checked Device Manager and drivers are seemingly spot on, the generic GPU driver is not what anyone should settle with. They can cause the something went wrong error Nvidia GeForce Experience.

You need to download the latest driver from the official support site and install them. You might also want to block Windows from automatically updating drivers, as this feature is proven to be flawed.

3 Check associated services

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type services.msc, and click OK.
    services
  2. Right-click Nvidia Telemetry Container and choose Properties.
    properties service nvidia geforce experience something went wrong
  3. Now, click the Log On tab at the top.
  4. Choose the Local system account.
    local
  5. Next, click the General tab.
  6. Change the Startup type to choose Automatic.
    automatic nvidia geforce experience something went wrong
  7. Finally, click the Start button, followed by OK, and restart your PC.
    start

Some users have been able to fix this issue simply by making changes to the properties of the Nvidia Telemetry Container. The major problem with the service is that it won’t start unless you allow it to log in with the local account.

This can cause the something went wrong error Nvidia GeForce Experience. Hence, you need to change its startup type and other properties to fix this issue.

4. Reinstall all drivers and GeForce Experience

  1. Download and extract DDU and start it.
    ddu
  2. Use the Safe mode from the launch options and recommended settings to remove the current Nvidia driver and GeForce Experience.
  3. Now, click the Clean and restart button and wait for the process to complete.
    clean nvidia geforce experience something went wrong
  4. Finally, download and install the latest driver and stable version of GeForce Experience.

Another effective solution is reinstalling everything remotely associated with Nvidia on your PC. To remove the driver cleanly, you’ll need to run the DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller).

After you’ve cleaned all traces of Nvidia GeForce Experience from your PC, you can safely install the correct version. Also, we suggest preventing Windows 10 from automatically installing drivers by turning off your internet.

This should fix something went wrong on the Nvidia GeForce Experience issue.

5. Try an older version

If none of the previous solutions resolved the issue, you should try rolling back to an older version of GFE. On the other hand, finding an older iteration of the GeForce Experience client isn’t a walk in the park.

Some third-party repositories have them in abundance, but there’s a security question. So, you must ensure you download the app from a safe website.

That is about it for the Nvidia GeForce Experience something went wrong issue. You only need to follow the instructions carefully, and things should be back to normal.

If you are facing other issues like GeForce Experience not detecting games, 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.

How to Fix The Sims 4 Not Launching (2026 Guide)

Trying to start The Sims 4, but it won’t launch? Maybe the EA App opens and… nothing. Or worse, you get hit with the “already running” message even though it clearly isn’t.

Don’t stress. This is one of the most common issues in 2025, especially with the new launcher updates and Epic Games compatibility quirks.

Whether it’s a broken mod, stuck background process, or something else entirely, we’ll walk through the most effective ways to fix it, step by step.

How do I Fix Sims 4 if it won’t launch on PC?

1. Force the game to create a new Mods folder

  1. Open File Explorer and go to Documents > Electronic Arts > Sims 4.
  2. Select the Mods folder and press the Ctrl key + C to copy it.
    electronic sims 4 wont open
  3. Now, go to the Desktop folder in the left pane and press Ctrl + P to paste the folder.
    desktop mods
  4. From here, delete the Mods folder in the Sims 4 folder and start the game. This should force Sim 4 to create a new Mods folder.
  5. Now, open the new and empty Mods folder in the Sim4 folder and the original one on your Desktop on two separate File Explorer windows.
  6. Open one of the folders in the original Mods folder and copy its content.
  7. Then, go to the new and empty Mods folder window and click the New folder icon. Give the folder any name you like.
    new folder
  8. Paste the files you copied into this new folder.
  9. Now, repeat Steps 6 to 8 for the other folders in the original Mods folder. Note that you don’t need to worry if you don’t have any folder to copy in the original Mods folder.
  10. After copying these folders, you can now copy the other contents of the original Mods folder to the new one at once.

If Sims 4 won’t launch with mods, try disabling a few mods and check if that helps.

2. Delete the Origin cache files

  1. Open File Explorer and follow the path below: C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming
  2. If you can’t find the AppData folder there, click the View tab at the top and check the box for Hidden items.
    hidden
  3. Now, delete the Origin folder there.

If Sims 4 won’t launch on Origin, you may be able to fix the issue by cleaning up the cache files.

3. Repair the game

  1. Open Origin.
  2. Now, go to My Game Library
  3. Right-click The Sims 4 and choose the Repair option.
    repair sims 4 wont open

If Sims 4 is not launching, your installation might be damaged, and repairing it can help.

If the problem started right after a patch, see this full guide on Sims 4 not working after update for more solutions.

4. Clean boot your computer

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter msconfig. Now press Enter or click OK.
    The Sims 4 cannot start
  2. On the Services tab, click to select the Hide all Microsoft services check box and select Disable all.
    Sims 4 won't open Windows 10
  3. On the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager.
    The Sims 4 cannot start
  4. Select each startup item and click Disable.
    Sims 4 won't open after update
  5. Close Task Manager, then click OK and restart the computer.
    The Sims 4 won't run

Sometimes third-party applications and services can interfere with your game and cause this and other similar issues. Enable startup services and apps one by one until you find the culprit.

5. Deactivate Origin in-game

  1. Open Origin.
  2. Now go to Application Settings and select Origin In Game.
  3. Uncheck Origin In Game.

Several users reported that disabling Origin In Game can help if Sims 4 won’t open. This isn’t the only issue, and sometimes Sims 4 won’t download on Origin.

6. Reset your user files

  1. Launch the This PC app on your device.
  2. Go to My Documents.
  3. Locate and open the Electronic Arts folder.
  4. Find The Sims 4 folder, right-click on it and select Copy.
  5. Go to your desktop, right-click on a free space, and select Paste.
    desktop
  6. Right-click on the copied folder and select Rename.
  7. Change the name of the folder and launch a new game.

Wrapping up

We hope these quick workarounds helped you and that you started the game without any issues. If the game starts but online features like the Gallery do not load, follow our Sims 4 Gallery not working guide for step by step fixes.

This isn’t the only issue, and many reported that The Sims 4 won’t update, but we covered this issue in a separate guide.

We also have a guide on how to change the Sims 4 language, so don’t miss it. This issue can sometimes appear due to Nisa error in Sims 4, so be sure to learn how to fix it.

Error code 123 in Sims 4 can also cause this issue, so it’s important to know how to properly fix it, and we have an entire guide dedicated to it.

If your mods are causing trouble, check out this guide on Sims 4 mods not working, or if the game launches but gets stuck when loading a household, try these fixes for Sims 4 not loading households.

If you’ve come across other solutions to fix start issues in The Sims 4, don’t hesitate to share them in the comments section below.

0x80070185 Error in OneDrive: 4 Ways to Fix It

OneDrive features a sharing feature that allows you to access any file in your OneDrive from anywhere. This makes it easier for users to access their files or even during a presentation. 

Whereas this feature is helpful most of the time, users have since come up to complain about not getting access to the files. To be precise, an error comes up that says Error 0x80070185: The cloud operation was unsuccessful. Find out why this happens and how to fix it here.

Why does the 0x80070185 error occur in OneDrive?

The error 0x80070185 in OneDrive occurs when users try to access shared files. In this scenario, once one user clicks or downloads a shared file, it becomes inaccessible to other users.

Some of the reasons why this happens include:

  • File size increase – Whenever you open and close a file in One Drive, it increases in size. Although negligible, the file is no longer considered the same as the original, especially if you deleted it from your hard drive.
  • Cached files – The more you open and close files, the more cache build up. If not deleted, some of the caches can become corrupt and result in the error.
  • Unstable internet connection – If you’re trying to access files on the cloud with a limited internet connection, you may also get this error.
  • Change in permissions – If you’re having trouble opening a file shared on OneDrive, it could be because you don’t have permission to access the file or it’s locked. 
  • Corrupt Windows Registry files – If your Registry is corrupted somehow, files in OneDrive may be rendered inaccessible.
  • Antivirus settings – Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus settings can prevent you from accessing certain files if it is considered a risk to your system.
  • Insufficient storage – Given that opening the file increases its size, if OneDrive is getting full and you don’t have enough RAM to accommodate it, you may have issues opening it again.

How can I resolve error code 0x80070185 in OneDrive?

Before attempting the slightly complex solutions, try the following:

  • Ensure that you’re using an updated version of OneDrive. Some older versions that have been superseded by newer ones tend to be a bit buggy.
  • Check if you have permission to open the shared file. Sometimes, access may be denied, so try contacting the person who created it and ask them for permission. 

1. Pause and resume syncing

  1. Launch the OneDrive icon by clicking on the system tray.
  2. Click on Help & Settings in the pop-up menu.one drive help & settings
  3. Select Pause syncing and choose a suitable time option for you.pause

Pausing syncing and resyncing in OneDrive does not delete any files on your computer. It just pauses the process until you decide to resume it again.

When you pause syncing, all changes made to documents or images on your computer since the last time you synchronized with OneDrive are copied to the cloud. It’s useful when you wait for an update to arrive on your computer.

2. Run the Windows Store apps troubleshooter

  1. Hit the Start Menu icon and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System on the left pane, then Troubleshoot on the right pane.
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.
  4. Scroll down, locate Windows Store Apps, and click the Run button.clicking run windows store apps troubleshooter

3. Get more storage

  1. Right-click the OneDrive icon on the Taskbar and click the Gear icon.
  2. Choose the Settings option.
  3. Click the Account tab at the top and check your available storage.
  4. Finally, click the Get more storage option and select your preferred plan.

Once you have acquired more storage, restart OneDrive again and try opening the problematic file again. 

4. Reset OneDrive

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Apps on the left pane then Apps & features on the right pane.
  3. Locate the OneDrive app, click on the three vertical ellipses, and select Advanced options.
  4. Click on Reset.
  5. Conversely, you can select the three dots at the top of the OneDrive app to bring down the menu.
  6. Click Settings.
  7. You can reset the app by clicking Quit OneDrive at the bottom of the settings menu.quit onedrive not syncing

If none of the above works, try reinstalling the application. This can help with any issues or corrupt files making the program behave abnormally. 

Elsewhere, users also complained of OneDrive in a continuous syncing loop. If this sounds familiar, visit our detailed article for recommended fixes.

You may also come across the OneDrive error 1001, so don’t hesitate to check our expert guide for some answers.

Let us know of any other solutions that may have worked for you in the comment section below.

Inaccessible Boot Device BSOD in Windows: Use 6 Easy Fixes

BSOD errors are a common occurrence in Windows and prevent the PC from booting the OS. There are several of these, each indicating a major issue with the hardware or software. One such is the Inaccessible Boot Device BSOD error.

The error appears when Windows cannot access the boot device or the system partition. It has, of late, been in the spotlight. The primary reason, the Inaccessible Boot Device stop code has troubled a lot of Windows 11 users. So, let’s find out all about it.

What causes Inaccessible Boot Device?

Here are a few reasons you might be getting the error:

  • A faulty hard drive: If the hard drive is faulty, you will likely get this error due to the computer’s inability to read the critical files. Often, SSD users are found to be affected by this error.
  • Problems with the last installed update: For many users, the problem appeared after they updated Windows, pointing to either a bug in the installed version or a change made to the BIOS.
  • Incompatible hardware: When an incompatible hardware or peripheral is connected to the PC, it could trigger the Inaccessible Boot Device error in Windows.
  • Overclocking: If not done correctly, overclocking can lead to several errors and even BSODs, including this one.

How do I fix the Inaccessible Boot Device error?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to try:

  • Make sure all the connections are in order, especially the ones to the hard drive. You can try reconnecting it just to be sure.
  • Remove any recently connected hardware, and check if the Inaccessible Boot Device error stops appearing.

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

1. Disable VMD in BIOS

  1. Turn off the computer, power it on, and press the F1, F10, F12, or Esc key, depending on the manufacturer, to access the BIOS.
  2. Now, check the VMD feature and make sure it’s disabled.disable vmd to fix inaccessible boot device

A user reported that a recent update enabled VMD in the BIOS, and, as a result, the Inaccessible Boot Device BSOD error showed up in Windows. So, make sure to revert the change.

2. Uninstall recent Windows updates

  1. Turn on the computer, and as soon as the display lights up, hold the power button to turn it off. Repeat it twice, and Automatic Repair should kick in on the last attempt.
  2. Once it’s done running, click on Advanced Options.advanced options
  3. Now, choose Troubleshoot.troubleshoot
  4. Again, click Advanced options.advanced options
  5. Choose the Uninstall Updates entry here.uninstall update to fix inaccessible boot device
  6. Select the Uninstall latest quality updates option.quality update
  7. Choose an account and then enter the password for it to continue.
  8. Click the Uninstall quality update button.uninstall to fix inaccessible boot device
  9. Wait for the update to uninstall, and then restart the computer.

While the previous solution looked at a particular change made after the update, there could also be others. And the easiest solution is to uninstall the update and disable Windows Update for a while to prevent the Inaccessible Boot Device error from reappearing.

3. Repair the Master Boot Record

  1. Head to the Recovery Mode in Windows, and choose Command Prompt from the list of options.command prompt
  2. Paste the following commands individually and press Enter after each to repair the MBR:bootrec /FixMbr bootrec /FixBoot bootrec /ScanOs bootrec /RebuildBcd
  3. Once done, restart the computer, and check if you can now boot Windows.

4. Perform a system restore

  1. In the Advanced Options menu that you accessed previously, choose System Restore.system restore to fix inaccessible boot device
  2. Choose an account from the list and enter the password for it to proceed.account
  3. Click on Next.next
  4. Select a restore point from the list, and again click Next.restore point
  5. Verify the details, and click Finish to restart the restore process.start restore to fix inaccessible boot device
  6. Click Yes to confirm.restore
  7. Once the restore is complete, restart the computer.

A system restore is often very effective against a range of BSOD errors. It primarily helps when you can’t identify what caused the error, which in this case may hold true. If the Inaccessible Boot Device error persists, head to the next solution.

5. Update the drivers

Note icon NOTE
To update the drivers, you first have to boot Windows in Safe Mode with Networking and proceed with the steps here.
  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager
  2. Expand the IDE ADA/ATAPI controllers category, right-click on the SATA controller under it, and choose Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to install the best one.update drivers to fix inaccessible boot device
  4. Similarly, update the other device drivers in Windows.

Drivers play a critical role in the effective functioning of the PC, and if these are outdated or corrupt, you are likely to encounter the Inaccessible Boot Device error. So you must regularly update the drivers.

Remember, sometimes, a driver update, too, can trigger BSODs, so you would have to avoid downloading them. A few users reported every time the Raid driver got installed through Windows Update, the OS would crash with a BSOD.

Update drivers automatically

Searching for drivers on your own can be time-consuming. So, we advise you to use a tool that will do this for you automatically.

This software will allow you to fix the Inaccessible Boot Device error on Windows 10, optimize your computer and enjoy an awesome gaming performance. After several tests, our team concluded that this is the best-automatized solution.

Furthermore, if you want to be constantly aware of your drivers’ actuality or functionality, take action and optimize your computer using powerful software like Fortect Driver Updater.

Fortect Driver Updater

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6. Convert the disk to GPT

Note icon NOTE
Proceed with this solution only if none of the other fixes worked for you since it will clear the data on the drive and require reinstalling Windows. This method will also help if you cannot install Windows on the drive.
  1. Choose Command Prompt from the Advanced Options in the recovery environment.command prompt to fix inaccessible boot device
  2. Paste each of the commands one at a time, and hit Enter after each to convert the disk from MBR to GPT:diskpart list disk select disk 1 clean convert gptdiskpart
  3. Once you have completed that part, turn off the computer.
  4. Now, create a Windows bootable drive, plug it in, make the computer boot from it, and then reinstall Windows.

Alternatively, you can automate the whole process by using specialized repair software, such as Fortect. This tool allows you to scan the whole system and repairs any broken files it finds, including essential Windows files that are often the cause of BSOD.

⇒ Get Fortect

That’s all for the Inaccessible Boot Device BSOD error in Windows, and one of our solutions should have helped fix things. In case the error persists, we recommend you contact Microsoft Support or a professional in your locality.

Also, check the best ways to boost the performance of Windows 11 and get it to run faster than ever.

If you have any other queries or know of a solution we missed, drop them in the comments section below.

Chrome Keeps Flickering in Windows 11: How to Stop It

Chrome has a reputation for fast performance, and it’s optimized to be lightweight and resource-efficient while still providing modern features like tabbed browsing and hardware acceleration.

But, there are times when you may experience a flickering screen in Google Chrome that appears to be happening randomly or when using certain websites. If this sounds familiar, keep reading to find out how you can end the flickering screen.

Why is my Google Chrome screen flickering in Windows 11?

There are various reasons why your Google Chrome screen is flickering in Windows 11. Some of the common causes include:

  • Outdated driver – The display driver on your computer might be causing the flickering because it’s out of date. 
  • Hardware issues – Another reason why Chrome flickering occurs is due to hardware issues such as low RAM or an underpowered CPU that causes lags or freezes.
  • Outdated browser – This can cause a problem with the way that Chrome renders elements, such as your web pages and graphics
  • Improperly configured drivers -If you are using graphics drivers in your system which are not compatible with Google Chrome, then they may cause excessive screen flickering.
  • Chrome extensions – Some Chrome extensions can find their way to your PC without your permission and may be causing problems with your browser. 
  • Unnecessary programs – If you have many programs installed, some of them might be causing your Google Chrome to flicker in Windows 11 or slow down your PC.
  • Antivirus settings – Antivirus programs sometimes can block programs and interfere with how they work. This can cause them to crash or not open properly.

How do I fix Chrome flickering screen on Windows 11?

If you are experiencing a flickering screen in Chrome on Windows, there are a few things that you can try before any advanced troubleshooting:

  • First, make sure that your monitor is compatible with the resolution of your laptop or desktop. 
  • Ensure you update Google Chrome to make it compatible with Windows 11, which will solve most of your problems regarding Google Chrome flickering in Windows 11.
  • Disable all unnecessary background tasks.
  • Close all instances of Chrome from Task Manager, then launch the browser again.
  • Shut down tabs in Chrome if you have multiple of them open. They may be taking up more memory than others, causing your screen to flicker.
  • Remove any recently installed extensions, as they may be interfering with how Chrome works.
  • Uninstall any third-party software that may be causing this issue.
  • Try to restart your computer and check if the issue persists. 

1. Adjust graphic settings 

  1. Hit the Start menu icon and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on System then select Display.
  3. Navigate to the Scale & layout section, then under Display resolution, click on the drop-down menu and pick a lower resolution setting than your current one.

2. Update graphic drivers 

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

The best way to fix Chrome’s flickering screen on Windows 11 is to update your graphic drivers using an automatic tool instead of doing it manually.

Outbyte Driver Updater can help you detect, install, and update your PC’s drivers. It scans for all the drivers that are missing or outdated and then replaces them with the correct versions.

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3. Reinstall graphic drivers 

  1. Click on the Search icon, type Device Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Navigate to Display adapters to expand, right-click on your graphics card and select Uninstall device.
  3. Confirm uninstallation in the next dialog box.
  4. Restart your PC, and the drivers will automatically be reinstalled.

4. Perform a scan in Chrome

  1. Open your Chrome browser and click on the three vertical ellipses at the top right corner.
  2. Select Settings.Chrome browser settings
  3. Next, click Reset and cleanup, then select Clean up computer on the right.
  4. Hit the Find button next to Find harmful software.
  5. Wait for the scan to finish and remove any recommended software.

To ensure you’re thorough, you must perform a virus scan on your Windows 11. Although Chrome may not find harmful software, there may be malicious code hidden in your system, making your screen flicker. You can also run an antivirus scan using a third-party antivirus solution.

5. Disable hardware acceleration 

  1. Open your Chrome browser and click on the three vertical ellipses at the top right corner.
  2. Select Settings.Chrome browser settings
  3. Navigate to System and on the right pane, toggle off Use hardware acceleration when available.

For hardware acceleration in Windows 11, our article on whether to enable or disable hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling should answer your questions.

6. Reset Google Chrome

  1. Open your Chrome browser and click on the three vertical ellipses at the top right corner.
  2. Select Settings.Chrome browser settings
  3. Next, click on Reset and cleanup then select Restore settings to their original defaults.
  4. Confirm Reset settings in the next dialog box.

If you’ve been experiencing the issue with Chrome flickering in Windows 11, this should help. However, if none works, consider using another browser, such as Opera, and give Chrome a break. Should you face a similar issue in Windows 10, the same steps should apply. 

Users also complained of getting a white screen in Chrome. If you encounter a similar issue, we have an expert article with quick fixes. We also have answers for when Chrome fails to load pages, so be sure to check our guide to that effect.

That’s all we had for this article, but continue the conversation in the comment section below with any additional thoughts.

How to Fix a Phone Connected to PC but Not Showing Up in File Explorer

If your phone is not showing up on PC, it usually means the computer isn’t establishing a proper data connection. This can happen with Android phones not connecting to PC via USB due to faulty cables, outdated system software, or connection settings on the computer.

What to do if your phone is connected to the PC but not showing up

1. Check the transfer mode

  1. After you connect the phone, a notification will appear confirming whether you want to allow the connected device to access data on it. Simply tap Allow.allow
  2. If you don’t receive it, check the notifications bar, and tap on USB for file transfer, or any similar entry there.USB for file transfer
  3. Now, make sure This phone option is selected under USB controlled by, and Transferring files under Use USB for.transferring files

2. Enable USB debugging

  1. Open Settings on your Android device, and tap on About phone.about phone
  2. Now, tap on Software information.software information
  3. Now, tap seven times on Build number.build number to fix phone not connecting to pc
  4. If required, enter the phone’s PIN to enable developer mode.
  5. Again, go back to Settings, and then tap on Developer options.developer options to fix phone not connecting to pc
  6. Enable the toggle for USB debugging.usb debugging to fix phone not connecting to pc
  7. Tap OK in the confirmation prompt.ok

3. Install the MTP USB device driver

3.1 Update the driver manually

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and select Device Manager.device manager
  2. Locate your Android phone under Portable Devices, right-click it, and choose Update driver.update driver to fix phone not connecting to pc
  3. Click Browse my computer for drivers.browse my computer for drivers
  4. Now click on Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.manually install drivers to fix phone not connecting to pc
  5. From the list, choose MTP USB Device and click Next.mtp usb device
  6. After the driver has been installed, your Android device should be recognized.

3.2 Update drivers automatically

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

The safer and easier way to update drivers on a Windows computer is by using a tool like Fortect Driver Updater that will do the heavy lifting for you.

4. Install the Media Feature Pack

MTP (Media Feature Pack) protocol is related to Windows Media Player, and some versions of Windows 10 don’t have Windows Media Player and support for related technologies such as MTP protocol.

If your version of Windows 10 doesn’t recognize Android devices, download and install the Media Feature Pack for N and KN versions of Windows 10. Once done, things should work as expected!

5. Reinstall the Android device’s driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager
  2. Locate the phone under Portable Devices, right-click on the device, and then choose Uninstall device.uninstall device to fix phone not connecting to pc
  3. Click Uninstall in the confirmation prompt that appears.uninstall to fix phone not connecting to pc
  4. Once done, remove the phone and then reconnect it to the PC.
  5. Windows will now automatically identify and install the best drivers for it.

6. Delete cache and data for the External Storage and Media Storage app

  1. Open Settings and go to Apps.apps
  2. Tap the ellipsis near the top-right corner.ellipsis
  3. Choose Show system apps.show system apps to fix phone not connecting to pc
  4. Tap on External Storage.external storage
  5. Now, tap on Storage.storage
  6. Next, tap on Clear data.clear data to fix phone not connecting to pc
  7. Choose OK to confirm.confirm
  8. Similarly, clear the data for Media Storage.
  9. Once done, restart the phone and then reconnect it to the PC.

7. Check your phone’s sync apps

Some phones have their own PC sync applications. For instance, Samsung has Link to Windows, and Motorola has Ready For.

Sometimes, these apps might interfere and lead to your phone not showing up in Files. However, it might be recognized in the app itself.

Just open the app and check the file transfer section/ connected devices or something similar.

If you prefer using Windows’ built-in File transfer options, you can uninstall these apps. Once you do this, the phone should show up under Removable devices.

8. Try a Different USB Cable or Port

Some USB cables only support charging, not data transfer. Switch to a certified cable and connect to another USB port on your PC. Avoid using USB hubs as they can cause detection issues.

9. Restart Both Devices

Restarting both your phone and PC can reset the USB connection process. After rebooting, reconnect the cable to check if your phone appears in File Explorer.

10. Update Your PC’s Operating System

Outdated Windows versions can cause phone not recognized by PC problems. Go to Settings → Windows Update and install all pending updates, then reconnect your device.

11. Disable USB Selective Suspend

The USB selective suspend feature can sometimes stop your Samsung phone from showing up on PC.

  • Press Windows + R, type control panel, and press Enter.
  • Go to Hardware and Sound → Power Options.
  • Select Change plan settings → Change advanced power settings.
  • Expand USB settings → USB selective suspend setting and set it to Disabled.

12. Try Connecting to a Different Computer

If your phone is not connecting to a PC at all, test it on another computer. If it works there, the issue likely lies in your original PC’s configuration.

13. Use a third-party app

On the flip side, if your phone doesn’t have its own app and you tried everything else and still can’t access your files, consider a third-party sync app.

This might make your PC recognize your phone due to its functionalities.

We would recommend the following tool to make sure your PC will always recognize your Android device:

⇒ Get WonderShare MobileGo

That’s it! If the phone was not connecting to the PC, it would now, and you can quickly transfer data between the two devices.

We also have specific guides if Windows 11 does not recognize Android phones and one for Windows 11 not recognizing iPhone.

If you’re using a Lumia or similar device and still having connection issues, check out our guide on what to do when Windows 10 laptop doesn’t recognize Lumia for more help.

Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below. Also, if you have any other queries, drop them here, and we will get back to you soon.

Windows Wireless Service is Not Running on This Computer [Fix]

You may receive the following error message from your PC when you attempt to connect to a wireless network: Windows Wireless Service is not running on this computer.

If you’re one of the unfortunate users that get this message, you obviously can’t access the internet. The error is closely related to the Windows could not start the wlan autoconfig service on local computer error 1067.

Why is my computer not showing wireless networks?

There are several reasons why your computer might not be showing wireless networks. Some of these include:

  • The PC is not set up to show wireless networks – If you have a wireless router, you need to ensure that it’s turned on and that the computer is connected to the right network. 
  • Signal interference – Some devices, such as cordless phones, emit radio frequencies and could interfere with your device’s ability to detect nearby wireless networks. You may need a Wi-Fi booster.
  • Corrupt/disabled network adapter – If your computer does not show wireless networks, then your network adapter may be disabled or is just not working properly.  
  • Locked network – If your wireless network is set up to require a password before connecting, you’ll need to type that in manually before accessing it. 

Now that we know the reasons for this issue, let’s fix the problem.

How can I fix Windows wireless service not running on this computer?

Before any technical troubleshooting, ensure you tick off the following basics first:

If these simple measures didn’t solve the problem, let’s go through the actual solutions below.

1. Start the wireless service manually

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.Services
  3. Locate WLAN AutoConfig service, double-click on it, and select Properties.
  4. Navigate to the General tab, under Startup type select Automatic from the drop-down options and click on the Start button.
  5. Next, click Apply and then OK.

2. Update network drivers

  1. Hit the Windows + I keys to open Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Type Device Manager in the search bar and click Open.
  3. Navigate to Network adapters, right-click, and select Update driver.update network driver
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers.

One of the most important things that you need to do is to update your network driver, because it will help you to connect to the Internet. 

A simple and fast solution to update all your drivers is to employ the help of specialized driver updating tools. They can easily detect missing, damaged, or outdated drivers on your PC and update the network drivers in just a few minutes.

3. Scan for viruses

  1. Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.
  4. Wait for the process to finish and restart your system.

4. Run the SFC scan

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-admin hp printer won't scan
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow

How do I reset Windows wireless service?

Resetting the wireless service is a useful troubleshooting technique for Windows users. As you might have guessed, this process restores the built-in wireless network adapter in your laptop or desktop computer to its factory settings. 

This will refresh the connection and force Windows to re-establish it. All saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords will be removed from the device’s memory. So why would you want to reset Windows wireless service? Well, there are several reasons.

It can help you fix issues like:

  • Poor performance, low speeds, and frequent disconnections
  • Connections that are slow to connect or that drop frequently
  • Ethernet adapters not working at all

To reset, follow the steps below:

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.Services
  3. Locate WLAN AutoConfig service, double click on it and select Restart.

How to fix Windows wireless service not running on Windows 7?

First, we must recommend upgrading to a newer Windows OS since Windows 7 is obsolete.

However, we gave a guide on how to restore the wireless services on Windows 7 that will help you with this matter.

In case you are asking How do I reinstall Wi-Fi on Windows 7? the answer is that you need to reinstall the drivers. Our guide on what to do if the Wi-fi drivers are missing will help you with that issue.

Elsewhere, users also complained of an issue where the WLAN autoconfig service keeps stopping. If you have encountered this problem, we have a detailed guide on how to fix it.

You may also come across the Windows wireless service not running on this computer error 1068. Don’t hesitate to visit our expert guide to that effect.

We’d love to know what solution fixed this error for you, so don’t forget to leave a comment below.

5 Best Free Drawing Software with Pressure Sensitivity

As an artist choosing the right software is important, and today we want to show you the best free drawing software with pressure sensitivity.

We already covered the best drawing apps, but not all support pressure sensitivity, a must-have feature for digital artists.

If you’re looking for new software for drawing, be sure to consider some of these tools.

What is the best free drawing software with pressure sensitivity support?

Adobe Fresco – Best overall

This app offers an extensive collection of vector and raster brushes, which makes it the perfect choice for digital artists and art students.

Live brushes are also available, and they simulate the look and effects of real brushes, thus allowing you to achieve impressive results.

Speaking of which, the software is compatible with Adobe Photoshop brushes, thus making the number of available brushes almost unlimited.

The service works with the cloud, so you can continue working on your artwork on any compatible device. Of course, integration with other Adobe services is also available.

Adobe Fresco offers amazing features, and it’s perfect for all digital artists that need drawing software with pressure sensitivity.

Other great features:

  • Liquify effects
  • Magic wand tool for colors
  • Multicolor swatches
  • Motion path effects

Adobe Fresco

Create amazing digital art with realistic brushes using Adobe Fresco software.

Clip Studio Paint – Wide array of features

What better app to use if not one designed specifically for artists that took into account all the natural touch features and sensitivity levels of the tools?

Clip Studio Paint is an app designed by artists, that is constantly being optimized and improved with different features.

This app is fairly easy to use once you have it on your device, and the workflow is not complicated.

You will have at your disposal over 8000 levels of pen pressure, which gives you the possibility to choose the exact sensitivity and pressure you want for your work.

And, as mentioned before, Clip Studio Paint is constantly being improved with 1000 new materials monthly.

Other great features:

  • Up to 6 months free trial
  • Available on all desktop and mobile platforms
  • Realistic color blending
  • Fully customizable brushes

Clip Studio Paint

One of the most advanced software that puts in the center the tool’s sensitivity and natural touch feeling.
Free trial Visit website

Adobe Photoshop – Loved my millions

Photoshop is the right place to be for pressure-sensitive drawing and unparalleled editing benefits.

It’s no need for much introduction to this solution, as everybody knows it’s worth it. You benefit from clever tools like generative fill for enhanced drawings.

In addition, there are useful functionalities such as sky replacement or background remover tools that make everything easier.

Not only that, you can get a neural coloring filter to transform your drawings into creative artwork ready to meet the world.

Other great features:

  • Object removing functionality
  • Professional layer colonizing
  • Nondestructive layer masking
  • Adjustment presets

Adobe Photoshop

Take full advantage of this artist drawing software with built-in pressure sensitivity.
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Corel Painter – For professionals

Corel Painter could not miss from our list of recommended software that puts a great emphasis on pressure sensitivity. The app offers a natural feeling touch, world-class natural-media emulation, and digital art brushes.

Moreover, you can also customize the brushes in unlimited ways, including their textures and sensitivity pressure. You can create the brushes exactly as you want them, your patterns, palettes, and many more.

This app comes with a brush accelerator that is intuitive, and it evaluates your system CPU, GPU, and memory to optimize the settings for the best performance.

Other great features:

  • Extensive brush customization
  • Advanced color mixing
  • Built-in composition tools
  • Works with drawing tablets and Apple devices

Corel Painter

Bring your drawings and paintings to the next level with this fantastic software. Get the best deal now!
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Krita – Completely free

Our last recommendation but certainly not the least important will go to the Krita app. This app is created by artists, which can give assurance regarding the most sensitive details.

Krita has incorporated many features, most of which are innovative and will make drawing fun and productive.

The brushes for sketches and drawing come in different shapes and features; you can choose the one that best fits your art and the stabilizers for inking and clone layers.

Other great features:

  • Available on all desktop platforms
  • Clean and customizable interface
  • Over 100 different brushes
  • Brush stabilizer

⇒ Get Krita

GIMP – Multi-platform open-source solution

GIMP is a well-known photo editing software and is one of the best alternatives to Adobe Photoshop. The software supports all standard photo editing features, but you can also use it with digital pens.

Thanks to the customizable interface, you can adjust it for any purpose. All photo editing features are there, allowing you to adjust your photos with ease.

Drawing tablets and MIDI controllers are fully supported, which makes GIMP one of the best free drawing software with pressure sensitivity on the market.

The software also supports various plugins created by the community, so even if a certain feature is missing, you can add it easily on your own.

Overall, GIMP is a great multi-platform tool, so it’s a perfect open-source choice for photo editors and digital artists alike.

Other great features:

  • Available on all desktop platforms
  • Extensive photo editing features
  • Support for drawing tablets
  • Highly customizable with plugins

⇒ Get GIMP

With this last recommendation, we will conclude our list of the best drawing software with pressure sensitivity to use.

Now that you have the right drawing tool, consider using one of these free photo editing applications to take your art to the next level.

Let us know in the comments section below if you have additional recommendations or suggestions. We would love to hear them.

Brusbsib.sys Incompatible Driver: How to Fix This Error

Drivers are the software required to allow your computer to communicate with other devices. Some drivers are built-in and automatically installed when you connect a device to your computer. Others may come pre-installed on your system.

If a driver is incompatible with the version of Windows installed on your PC, it may interfere with how it works. That’s exactly the problem facing users who have come across the Brusbsib.sys incompatible driver error. Let’s dig deeper and find out possible solutions below.

Should I turn on core isolation in Windows 11?

Core isolation is a feature of the Windows 11 operating system that allows you to protect your computer from security threats by limiting what applications can do. It is good practice to turn it on as soon as possible to protect your computer from malware and other threats.

For users who deal with virtual machines, turning on core isolation may be necessary. Enabling memory integrity in Windows 11 is a great idea to keep your PC safe from malware and other viruses.

Memory integrity is another feature that prevents applications from accessing parts of the memory that they shouldn’t be able to access. However, you may find you can’t turn on memory integrity because of incompatible drivers.

For users who experienced the Brusbsib.sys incompatible driver with the Brother printer error, they were unable to enable memory integrity on their PCs. The message said Brusbsib.sys incompatible driver preventing memory integrity from functioning.

You may end up with an incompatible driver under the below circumstances:

  • Installing the wrong driver – A good example is if you have an Intel graphics driver and you install the AMD graphics driver instead. Your computer will probably not work correctly. 
  • Installing a driver for a different OS – If you try to install a driver that has not been optimized for your version of Windows, you’ll have trouble getting your PC to work.
  • Installing drivers from unauthorized sources – Some websites offer illegitimate drivers that may have been tampered with or altered, so they won’t work properly on your computer. 

How do I fix an incompatible driver?

Before jumping into the slightly technical solutions, try the following basic steps:

  • Ensure you’re running an updated version of Windows.
  • Run a DISM scan to check for corrupted files.
  • Try restarting your PC.

1. Enable memory integrity

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type gpedit.msc in the dialog box and hit Enter.GPEDiT.msc -Windows Remediation Service Failed to Start?
  3. Double-click on Computer Configuration.Computer Configuration
  4. Next, double-click on Administrative Templates.disable cortana windows 10
  5. Locate System and double-click on it,
  6. Double-click on Device Guard.
  7. Again, double-click on Turn on Virtualization Based Security.
  8. In the window that opens, click on the Enabled checkbox, then click Apply and OK to save changes.
  9. Restart your PC.

2. Uninstall the drivers

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Open.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type and Enter the following command: pnputil /delete-driver oem21.inf /uninstall /force
  3. Close the Command Prompt window and restart your PC.

3. Turn on Core isolation

  1. Hit the Search icon, type Core Isolation, and click Open.
  2. Navigate to Memory integrity and toggle it On.turning on memory integrity windows security

In case memory integrity is grayed out, you can refer to our helpful article to resolve this issue.

4. Remove the Brusbsib.sys driver using a third-party tool

If a driver incompatible with your system has been installed and is causing problems, you will need to remove it. The process for doing so varies depending on the type of driver you have installed and how it was installed.

If you cannot uninstall the driver using the Device Manager, try using driver remover software. These tools have been around for years, and they are very effective at removing drivers that are not working properly or are incompatible with your system. 

Some also provide you with a free scan so that you can determine if there are any other drivers that need to be removed from your system before you can use them again.

5. Delete the driver using Autorun

  1. Visit the Microsoft Official Autoruns Download Page and download the zip file.
  2. After the download, press Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
  3. On the left pane, click on Downloads and locate the downloaded file. Right-click on the file i.e Autoruns.zip and select Extract all.
  4. After the extraction is completed, open the newly created folder, locate the supporting.exe, and double-click the file to launch the app.
  5. Once the tool loads successfully, type Brusbsib in the Quick Filter Search Box and hit Enter.
  6. Locate any item related to Brusbsib and delete them.
  7. Restart your PC to enable memory integrity.

6. Perform a clean boot

  1. Hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type in msconfig and hit Enter.
  3. In the System Configuration window that opens, navigate to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services option, and click on Disable all.
  4. Click on Apply, then OK.
  5. Restart your PC.

As always, we recommend getting third-party antiviruses for your PC as an extra layer of protection.

You may also run into a similar issue with the wdcsam64.sys error, so don’t hesitate to check out our detailed article for fixes.

That’s all we had for this article, but for any additional thoughts, leave us a comment down below.

How to Fix a PC That’s Not Detecting The GPU [2026]

PC not detecting GPU? This can hinder your experience, especially when playing games. The good news is that you can fix it.

Find below tested methods explained step by step to get rid of this error.

What can I do if my PC is not detecting GPU?

Before trying other methods, check if your GPU slot is clean, and that your graphics card is properly connected. Ensure that your power supply can handle it and set the CPU startup voltage to Maximum in BIOS.

Note icon NOTE
The following solutions can only be applied if you have an integrated GPU in addition to a dedicated one or if you have an old graphics card that you can use.

1. Enable the hidden devices and graphics card driver

  1. Right-click the Start icon, then select the Device Manager option.
    device manager
  2. Select the View button at the top, then click Show hidden devices.
    show hidden devices device manager
  3. Expand the Display adapters section, right-click on the GPU, and then choose Enable device if it’s currently disabled.
    enable device

2. Install or update the graphics card driver

2.1 Via Device Manager

  1. If the PC is not detecting your GPU, right-click the Start icon from your Taskbar, then select Device Manager.
    device manager
  2. Expand Display adapters, right-click your graphics card driver, and click Update driver.updating display adapter driver in windows
  3. Click Search automatically for drivers, then reboot your computer after the process is finished. The PC not detecting AMD graphics card issue will be solved.
    search automatically for drivers

2.2 Via the manufacturer’s website

  1. Navigate to Nvidia’s official website or AMD, depending on your GPU, then choose your Product type, series, your OS, download type, and language that fit your GPU description, then click the Search button.nvidia search
  2. Click Download under the resulted driver, then double-click the exe file to install it on your PC. Restart your PC afterward to apply the changes made. The PC not detecting GPU error will be fixed.download nvidia driver

2.3 Via Windows Update

  1. Press Windows + I together, then go to Update & Security.update and security
  2. Click the View all optional updates option on the right.view all optional updates
  3. Expand the Driver updates section, tick all the updates in there then select Download and install.download and install driver

2.4 Automatically install the latest drivers

Alternatively, you can use an automated tool such as Fortect Driver Updater that will handle this task for you.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

3. Use Command Prompt to disable PCI Express

Note icon NOTE
This is recommended for NVIDIA graphic cards only.
  1. Press Windows, then type cmd and select Run as administrator.cmd run admin
  2. Type or paste the following command, then press Enter and reboot your PC once it’s done: bcdedit /set pciexpress forcedisablebcdedit

4. Reset your BIOS and update it

  1. Boot into BIOS by pressing F2 or Del after you press the power button.
  2. Navigate to the Reset to Default section, then choose Load setup default and press Enter. Note that this might differ depending on your PC, nonetheless, the steps should be similar.reset to default bios
  3. Proceed to update your BIOS, which will enable your motherboard to work with any new hardware you install. The PC cannot detect Nvidia graphic card issue will be solved afterward.

We must point out that changing the BIOS can occasionally be a potentially risky activity; as a result, you should exercise extra caution to prevent causing any irreparable harm.

5. Uninstall the latest Windows update

  1. Press the Windows + I keys together to access the Settings app, then select Update & Security.update and security
  2. Select View installed update history from the right side.view update history
  3. Select Uninstall updates.uninstall updates
  4. Click the top Windows update installed, then select Uninstall in order to remove it from your PC. Reboot your computer and check whether the GPU issue is fixed.uninstall-latest-update-w10 opera keeps crashing

For more potential solutions, visit our guide on what to do if your PC is not detecting the second GPU. These issues could present problems when you pay games and could birth other errors like could not initialize graphics device.

We also recommend reading our guide on what to do if the GPU is not showing up in Task Manager or what to do if GPU is not detected but the fan is spinning, or graphics card not recognized by Device Manager.

There you go; you should be able to fix your PC not detecting graphics card issues with one of these solutions. Do let us know if you used other workarounds.

5 Quick Ways to Fix HBO Max When HDR Is Not Working

Whether it’s HBO Max or other SVOD services, watching 4K HDR movies is a thrilling experience. However, some users report that occasionally, HBO Max HDR is not working.

The problem may be caused by the HBO app or a streaming device like Roku that, in rare situations, cannot stream movies in HDR. Additionally, the TV you are using must support HDR.

Now, without further ado, let’s get into the article and look at the solutions to the HBO Max HDR not working problem.

What are the requirements for streaming HDR content on HBO Max? Before watching HBO Max in HDR, you must fulfill a few requirements:

  • HBO Max subscription
  • A streaming HDR device
  • A fast Internet connection
  • Built-in displays – Minimum resolution of 1080p, the brightness of 300 nits or more
  • External display – HDR support, DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0 or higher, USB-C, or Thunderbolt

You should also know that there are many HDR formats, like HDR 10 & 10+. Hybrid-Log Gamma (HLG), Dolby Vision.

And although all the formats are about more vivid colors and enhanced brightness, they are not the same.

So, if the question is: Does HBO Max support HDR? The answer is yes, but you will also need a compatible device and display to see the content in HDR.

Why is HBO Max not displaying HDR? The most probable cause for this issue is an unstable or poor Internet connection. HBO Max adjusts the video quality based on your connection.

For instance, for 4K HDR content, you will need a connection of at least 25 Mbps, but that is the minimum limit, so a faster connection is recommended.

If you meet all the requirements, let’s see how we can fix the problem with HBO Max streaming.

What can I do if HBO Max HDR is not working?

1. Check if the content is HDR

  1. Launch the HBO Max app.
  2. Search Dolby Vision to get the list of all content supporting HDR.dolby vision capable content
  3. Select a movie or a series to watch.
  4. Check if your device has enabled HDR.

You should know that not all the HBO Max content is HDR. The movies and shows that support it will be highlighted in the movie list.

The problem starts if you can watch some shows in HDR but not others. Read on to find other solutions.

2. TV not capable of HDR

  1. Go to your TV settings.
  2. Navigate to Display and Sound.
  3. Select Picture and then Picture Mode.picture mode in TVS
  4. If you see Dolby Vision on the list, your TV supports HDR.

As previously stated, it is possible that your TV or streaming device does not support HDR. Most modern devices support this feature.

However, if one of the three factors (the content, TV, or streaming device) does not support HDR, you cannot watch movies with this feature.

3. Clear HBO Max app cache

3.2 On Android

  1. Launch your device’s Settings app.
  2. Navigate to the App Manager and then Other Apps.
  3. Locate and pick HBO Max.
  4. Select Storage.
  5. Select Clear Cache from the menu.

3.2 On Fire TV or Roku

  1. Navigate to the Settings menu on Fire TV or Roku.
  2. Select Applications, then go to Manage Installed Applications.
  3. Select HBO Max from the list.
  4. First, select Force Stop, then select the options Clear cache and Clear data.
  5. Start HBO Max and see if the problem was corrected.

3.3 On a browser

  1. Open Chrome.
  2. Click on the three vertical dots, hover on History, then select History from the secondary context menu.
  3. Click on the Clear browsing data option, then select a Time range for which you want to clear the cache.
  4. Checkmark the Cached images and files box, then click on Clear data.

Now that you’ve confirmed that your TV and streaming device supports Dolby Vision, you’re probably dealing with corrupted cache files that interfere with how the software operates.

Get rid of those files so you can watch the Dolby Vision video or movie immediately.

4. Update the HBO Max app

  1. Go to the App Store on your Device or TV.
  2. Look for HBO Max and select it.
  3. Select the Download or Update option.
  4. After updating the app, restart your device.

If Dolby Vision or HDR still does not activate, the next step is to update the HBO Max app.

The app has recently had issues because most of its marked material does not support Dolby Vision. The developers have already provided a fix, so updating the app is the quickest way to resolve this.

5. Reset the TV to factory settings

  1. Go to the Settings menu on your television.
  2. Choose either Preferences or General.
  3. Select Reset.factory reseting a TV
  4. Select Factory Reset.
  5. Enter a PIN code if required, or click OK to confirm.

Now that we’ve established that it’s not a hardware or app issue, there’s just one place to look. Device firmware, like the ones for your streaming devices and TV, might cause this Dolby Vision issue.

You wish to restore your device to factory settings to install the HBO Max app from scratch.

What devices can I watch HBO Max HDR on?

The following are some of the top devices that are compatible with 4K HDR on HBO Max:

  • Smartphones: Apple iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Amazon Fire tablets
  • Media streaming devices: Fire TV, Roku, Xbox, Spectrum WorldBox, and more
  • TVs: All smart TVs that support Dolby Vision
  • Consoles: Xbox, PlayStation

You may fix HBO Max Dolby Vision now that you know how to do so to enjoy your preferred content in the best possible quality.

Some of our readers also asked: How do I force HBO Max to 4K? The short answer is that you can’t!

HBO Max adjusts the quality and resolution automatically to the best possible settings. However, if your bandwidth or connection speed is low, the resolution and quality will downgrade automatically.

If you’re wondering if HBO Max notifies you when someone logs in, check our article to get the answer.

In the comment section below, let us know if you could fix the HBO Max HDR is not working issue.

Adblocker for Smart TV: How to Block Ads on Samsung, LG & Android TVs

Ads on Smart TVs can be intrusive, especially when watching YouTube or navigating through menus. Whether you’re using a Samsung, LG, or Android TV, it’s possible to reduce or eliminate most ads using DNS filters, third-party apps, and network-based solutions. Here’s how to set up a reliable adblocker for Smart TV devices, step by step.

How do I stop ads on my TV?

1. Change the DNS server

  1. On your smart TV, head to Advanced network settings. There is an option for it on all TV, be it any manufacturer.
  2. Now, choose DNS server and set it to manual.manual dns
  3. Enter the following values as the DNS server, and save the changes:
    • Preferred DNS server: 94.140.14.14
    • Alternate DNS server (if asked): 94.140.15.15

The DNS server we used earlier belongs to AdGuard, a dedicated tool specializing in blocking ads and ensuring security over the web. You can also install the AdGuard app for your Android TV from the official website and set it up.

However, keep in mind that not all smart TVs have the option of changing the DNS. At the same time, your ISP or cable service supplier might block this feature. If you encounter any issues, undo the changes.

Note icon NOTE
This method will work only if your smart TV is connected to the Internet via a router. And make sure you are making changes to the same router the TV is connected to.
  1. Access the router settings on a PC since it is usually more convenient. For most routers, you will have to head to the following address: 192.168.1.1
  2. Enter the username and password to sign in.
  3. Locate the Filter settings, enter the URLs for the ad you usually see on the TV, and enter them here. Just make sure that you are blacklisting and not whitelisting them.filter url to block ads smart tv

This is another trick that works, and since the blocking is via the router, the effects will reflect across devices. Here are some of the links you need to block for specific manufacturers, as shared by a user on Reddit:

Samsung

  • ads.samsung.com

LG

  • ngfts.lge.com
  • us.ad.lgsmartad.com
  • lgad.cjpowercast.com
  • edgesuite.net
  • us.info.lgsmartad.com

For Roku TV and a few others, you will have to disable the Use Information From TV Inputs feature in the settings to block ads on a smart TV.

3. Modify the smart TV settings

  1. Open your Android TV.
  2. Access the home screen.
  3. Go to Settings.
  4. Select Device Preferences, then About.
  5. Navigate to Legal information, and then click on Ads.
  6. Turn off Ad personalization.

Changing this setting will not actually block ads on many TVs. However, the ads will not be personalized based on your previous options.

4. Install AdGuard on Android TV

AdGuard is a third-party ad blocker that runs directly on Android TV devices. It works across apps and browsers to remove banners, pop-ups, and some video ads.

Once activated, AdGuard will filter ads system-wide—including in browsers and many ad-supported apps.

Do smart TVs collect data? This may come as a shocker to many, but the answer is Yes. Some smart TVs have a built-in feature called Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), which gathers information about the channels viewed and when.

But why exactly would a TV store or share information? To sell it to advertisers for placing targeted ads. So smart TVs not only collect data but are also sharing it with potential advertisers. The next time you set up a smart TV, read the terms and conditions properly.

These were some of the best ad blocker tips for TV. Of course, all the methods can block ads on a Panasonic Smart TV or any other manufacturer. If you’d like to download a cross-platform adblocker, try Total Adblock.

And for those wondering, you could always cast Windows 11 to a smart TV and watch your favorite shows on a bigger screen.

We also have a guide on how to take screenshots with a smart TV, so don’t miss it.

If you found this information helpful, share your thoughts in the comments below.

Microsoft and Elgato join forces to integrate Microsoft Teams and Stream Deck

Microsoft Teams meetings are about to get a higher production value and are easier to manage thanks to Microsoft and Elgato working together.  Elgato’s Stream Deck now works with Microsoft Teams.  If you’re a gamer or Twitch streamer odds are you know what the Stream Deck is.  If not the Stream Deck is an interactive keypad that allows you to execute actions and macros on the fly with a push of a button.  In terms of Microsoft Teams, being able to mute your audio, and turn on and off recording at the touch of a button makes your workflow more efficient.

If you have a Stream Deck, getting started is easy, you can go to the Stream Deck store inside the software or go directly to this link to download the plugin.  If you don’t have a Stream Deck they start at $79.99 for the Stream Deck Mini.

Image via Microsoft

The Best Windows Settings to Optimize your Blue Yeti Mic

If you want to know about the best Windows settings for Blue Yeti microphones, this article is for you. Here, you will get the best step-by-step instructions along with some crucial information.

What makes a microphone performs better on a Windows PC? Of course, quality plays a significant role. But, the configuration is the key. There are several high-quality mics available on the market. But, among them, the Blue Yeti is the most popular due to its excellent performance.

Blue Yeti features:

There is no magic behind the success of this USB microphone. The Blue Yeti mic has both pros and cons. It has the features that most users, streamers, and podcasters need. These are:

  • Multiple patterns: Unlike many other typical professional mics, Blue Yeti supports multiple pattern modes, including cardioid, stereo, omnidirectional and bidirectional modes. It gives a lot of flexibility to any type of user. 
  • Control: Volume, pattern selection, instant mute, sensitivity, etc., are easily controllable on this microphone.
  • Unique design: Yeti has a very positionable design that makes it easier to record comfortably. By using better mic stands, the BY can fit in an even better way.
  • Plug and play: This USB mic doesn’t need a special tool. You can plug on a PC or Mac and start using it.

If you get unexpected or stunning performance, from this mic, in most cases, it is because of the settings or configuration.

What are the factors that can impact microphone performance?

The following things have a direct impact on Blue Yeti’s performance:

  • Driver: Though you won’t need a separate driver for plug-and-play mics, sometimes, the problematic driver can affect the microphone performance.
  • System resources: The capability of PC hardware and other system resources also impact mic performance.
  • Software: You don’t need software to use a mic. But, there are various tools to enhance microphone performance. If the software has a problem, the opposite may happen.
  • Settings: This is the biggest factor that no one can deny. Faulty settings can bring down a decent microphone performance to the ground. A better setting can boost a typical mic’s performance.

How to apply the best Windows settings for Blue Yeti?

We have found the best settings that work great with the Blue Yeti microphone. Before applying it, we suggest you do the following things first:

  • Make sure Windows is up to date.
  • If you use audio software that runs in the background and can tweak your microphone and sound quality, disable it.
  • Adjust your gain and pattern mode using the selector knobs on your microphone.

Now, follow these steps to gain optimal Blue Yeti performance:

1. Adjust the volume

  1. Plug the Blue Yeti into your PC. If needed, learn how to fix Blue Yeti not recognized issue.
  2. Press Win + I on the keyboard to open Windows Settings.
  3. Go to System and then click on Sound.going sound settings windows 11
  4. Click on Microphone from the Input section.
  5. You can control the Input volume from here.adjusting microphone input volume windows 11

Usually, you will find 50% volume is ideal. However, it may differ depending on your surroundings and requirements. Rather than using the built-in Windows settings, you also can use Blue Yeti’s software to adjust the volume.

2. Change input quality

  1. From the Microphone settings, find Format in the Input settings section.
  2. Change it to the highest quality.adjusting microphone audio format windows 11 settings

You will find various studio quality options. Choose the one 16 Bit with 48000 Hz or anything better.

3. Disable AGC

  1. Press Win + R on the keyboard to open Run.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: mmsys.cplopening sound properties using run command
  3. Go to the Recording tab.
  4. Double-click on the Blue Yeti microphone.double-clicking microphone from sound properties recording tab
  5. Go to the Custom tab.
  6. Uncheck AGC.disabling AGC microphone windows
  7. Click on Apply, and then OK.

4. Enable audio enhancement

  1. Open the Sound properties as shown in method 3.
  2. Double-click on the mic from the Recording tab.
  3. Go to the Advanced tab.going advanced tab microphone properties windows
  4. Check Enable audio enhancement.
  5. Save the settings.

5. Adjust voice mode

  1. Go and download Logitech G HUB software.
  2. Select the Blue Yeti microphone when it detects the mic automatically.
  3. Enable Blue Voice.enabling blue voice
  4. If necessary, choose a preset or manually adjust it according to your need.
  5. To get the best from this mic, from Equalizer, enable High-Pass and set it to 100 Hz or anything ideal for you.
  6. Set Master Output Level to 95 or anything you prefer.
  7. Adjust the Voice EQ according to your needs.
  8. Enable Noise reduction from the Signal Cleanup tab.enabling noise reduction blue yeti logitech g hub
  9. Set noise reduction level to around 25.

You can modify the settings according to your own preferences. We are recommending what works well for most users.

If you don’t see the mic after opening this software, learn how to solve Logitech G Hub not detecting Blue Yet.

6. Enable NVIDIA Broadcast

  1. On Logitech G Hub for Blue Yeti, go to the NVIDIA tab.
  2. Enable NVIDIA Broadcast.enabling nvidia broadcast blue yeti logitech g hub
  3. You can set Noise Removal to around 60.

These settings will work for most of you. Keep in mind that Blue Yeti has discontinued its software. So, the Logitech G Hub is the officially recommended one. So, we have featured it in our article.

If you are interested, you can check out these best wireless microphones.

These are the best settings for a Blue Yeti mic for a Windows PC for most situations. If you have found your own preferred configuration that works better for you, feel free to let us know in the comments box.

NVIDIA Reflex Low Latency: What Is It & How to Use It

NVIDIA Reflex, also known as NVIDIA Reflex Low Latency, allows GeForce GPUs to optimize PC games, such as lowering latency for smoother gameplay.

The Reflex app is available through NVIDIA’s developer website, and it can a little complicated to use. It’s meant more for developers and not the everyday gamer. But with some instructions, anybody can use it.

What are the benefits of having low latency in video games?

Before going into how the Reflex app works, it’s important to explain why low latency is a good thing. This term is thrown around a lot among PC gamers, but you may not know what it means:

  • It increases the polling rate on your mouse and keyboard – The polling rate is how fast a mouse and keyboard communicate with the computer. The higher the rate, the faster the accessories are.
  • Low latency reduces the chance of a connection loss or delay – A connection loss or delay can ruin a game and result in a loss. That’s why it’s important to maintain a consistent connection.
  • High performance means there’s a chance to experience lag – Like connection losses, lag can ruin a game. You may also have to adjust your PC to get rid of annoying lag.

For the purposes of this guide, we’re going to use the game Naraka: Bladepoint, as it’s one of the few titles that work with NVIDIA Reflex. The full list of compatible games is available on NVIDIA’s website.

How can I use NVIDIA Reflex Low Latency?

The first thing you should do is go to NVIDIA’s developer website and download Reflex. Then you install it. Be aware that the app isn’t perfect. Some players have experienced issues:

  • Some games may feel choppy, meaning they’re not running as smoothly as they should. If you experience this, you’ll have to disable the Reflex app.
  • The app and game may be incompatible with the hardware. If your CPU and GPU can’t keep up, there will be a bottlenecking issue which also results in bad performance.
  • You also need to ensure the app is properly configured to the GPU. Otherwise, low latency mode will increase the latency.

1. Update graphics drivers

  1. Open the Device Manager, then expand Display Adapters in the window.
  2. Right-click the GPU you want to update and select Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers to instantly download and install the graphic drivers.
  4. Alternatively, you can go to NVIDIA’s official driver download page and enter your GPU’s information.
  5. Click Search, and then select Download on the following page to download the drivers.
  6. From there, run the file you just downloaded to begin the installation.
  7. Go through the installation wizard as normal. It’s best to stick with the Recommended options like an Express installation.

Before enabling NVIDIA Reflex, updating your computer’s drivers is the first thing you should do.

As an alternative to the manual process, we recommend you try a specialized software that will proceed with this procedure automatically.

2. Enable NVIDIA Reflex

  1. Launch the game you want to enable Reflex on. In this example, it’s Naraka: Bladepoint.
  2. Go to the game’s settings by clicking the gear icon in the upper-right corner.
  3. Select Settings and scroll down until you find the NVIDIA Reflex.
  4. Switch NVIDIA Reflex to Reflex+Boost. In some games, it may be called On + Boost.

According to NVIDIA, this is all you have to do to enable and use Reflex on games. To configure it, you’ll have to use GeForce Experience mid-game.

3. Configure via GeForce Experience

  1. To use GeForce Experience mid-game, go to the app’s settings and enable In-Game Overlay.
  2. Also, click the box next to Enable experimental features at the top. You may have to update GeForce Experience.
  3. Press Alt + Z in-game to open up GeForce Experience.
  4. Under GeForce Experience, click Performance.
  5. In this section, you can tweak the game’s performance however you like. Each game will have its own settings. Naraka: Bladepoint, for example, allows you to enable automatic tuning.

4. Turn on Low Latency Mode

  1. Launch the NVIDIA Control Panel and click the Manage 3D settings tab on the left-hand menu.
  2. Under Global Settings, scroll down until you locate Low Latency Mode.
  3. Click the Off entry to the right of Low Latency Mode and select Ultra.
  4. Click Apply, then close the window.

How can I improve my computer’s gaming performance?

If you want to take your computer’s performance to the next level, there are two main ways to go about it. You can turn on Windows Game Mode to get more out of your Windows 11 machine.

That said, the feature has been known to be a resource hog, so you should learn how to turn it off. It’s not too hard, but navigating a Windows 10 Settings menu can be tricky.

You can also use overclocking software to push your computer past its limits. However, overclocking for too long can cause long-term computer damage.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about other gaming tips and tricks. And please tell us if there’s a specific guide for any gaming error or how to use a specific tool you’d like to see.

Fix: Cannot Change Temporary Internet Files Cache Size

We spend most of our time on the internet, and there are multiple user queries on how they can speed up their internet. Well, Internet Explorer cannot be set to clear the cache automatically, but you can change the size of the cache.

Changing the cache size or making it smaller will make the browser speedier. However, some users have reported that they cannot change the temporary internet file cache size. If you are among such users, then in this guide, we will share some solutions with you that will help you resolve the problem.

How to change the temporary internet files cache size?

Before you get ahead with the solutions that will help you with cannot to change the temporary internet file cache size issue, let us first take a look at the conventional way of changing the temporary internet file size.

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Internet Options.
  4. Click on the General tab.
  5. Under the Browsing History section, select Settings.
  6. Enter the value in the Disk Space setting.
  7. Click the OK button.
  8. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

This is the usual way of increasing the temporary internet cache file size. However, if you are not able to set the cache file size or the slider is missing, which has been reported by multiple users. You can go ahead with the advanced troubleshooting solutions mentioned below.

What to do if I cannot change the temporary internet files’ cache size?

1. Tweak the Registry

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the below-mentioned path. HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings\5.0\Cache\Content
  4. Double-click on the CacheLimit value.
  5. Change Base to Decimal.
  6. In the Value field, enter the size you want to have for the temporary internet files cache.
  7. Press OK.
  8. Navigate to the below path. HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings\Cache\Content
  9. Double-click on the CacheLimit value.
  10. Change the Base to Decimal.
  11. Change the value to your preferred size.

Note that tweaking the registry files wrongly could take things south and even brick your PC. So, it is recommended that you create a backup of the registry before fiddling with it.

You can also check out our guide that will help you with some quick ways to fix the corrupt registry in your Windows 10 PC. In case you forgot to take a registry backup, we would suggest you check out our guide that will help you to restore the registry without any backup.

2. Delete the temporary internet files folder

  1. Log out of your account.
  2. Sign in as an admin to your Windows PC. (Make sure to log in as an admin as you won’t be able to delete the Temporary Internet Files folder if you log in as yourself.)
  3. Open the File Explorer.
  4. Navigate to the below path. %SystemDrive%\Users\%Username%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files\
  5. Open the Temporary Internet Files.
  6. Delete all the files inside the folder.
  7. Restart your PC and check if you can change the temporary internet files’ cache size or not.

The reason why you cannot change the temporary internet files cache size might be that the Temporary Internet Files folder is corrupt.

In such a case, to fix this issue, you need to delete all the temporary internet files inside the folder and then check if this lets you change the cache size.

3. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu.
  2. Type create a restore point and open the appropriate option.
  3. Select the drive where you have installed Windows OS.
  4. Hit the System Restore button.
  5. Click Next.
  6. Select the restore point.
  7. Hit the Next button.
  8. Click Finish.
  9. Your PC will begin performing the system restore and bring it back your PC to a state where everything was working normally.

Do note that system restore process will work only if you have created a system restore point on your PC. If you do not know how to create a restore point, then you should refer to our guide, which will help you with that.

4. Reset your PC

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on Recovery on the right side.
  3. Under Recover options, select Reset this PC.
  4. Click on Keep my files option. Choosing this option makes sure that none of your personal files are replaced.
  5. The reset process will begin.

Chances are some of the system files are missing from your PC, or the installation was problematic. In this case, we would suggest you reset your PC, as this would bring your PC back to a fresh state.

Do note that reset your PC only when none of the above solutions helped you resolve the cannot change temporary internet files cache size problem.

That is it from us in this guide. We have a guide to help you quickly clear the cache files on your Windows 11 PC.

You can also check out our guide that lists some solutions to fix the temporary files not deleting automatically using Disk Cleanup.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions helped you fix the cannot change temporary internet files cache size problem.