How to Fix Time on Windows 10 [Clock is Wrong]

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Although Windows 10 is an amazing operating system, there are still some minor issues that can appear once in a while. One issue reported by the users is the wrong time on their Windows 10 PC.

Although this isn’t a big problem, it can be inconvenient. So let’s see how to fix it.

Why is my Windows 10 clock wrong?

Below are some of the factors that can cause the Windows 10 clock to be incorrect:

  • Outdated PC: In some cases, the wrong time on your PC can be due to the fact that your PC is outdated. You can fix this by updating your Windows 10 to the latest version.
  • Faulty CMOS battery: Sometimes, the CMOS battery on your motherboard might be faulty, leading to this wrong time issue. The solution to this is to replace the battery.
  • Presence of malware: Viruses can mess with every aspect of your PC, including the time. Scanning for malware with Microsoft Defender or a third-party antivirus should fix this.

After listing the causes of this issue, below are some of its variations, as reported by users:

  • CMOS clock wrong
  • The Windows clock is out of sync (This usually happens when time synchronization fails with time.windows.com).
  • Windows 10 time wrong after reboot/daylight savings/sleep
  • Windows 10 time is always wrong (time zone/date and time wrong – Sometimes, Windows 10 won’t let you change the time zone at all, but luckily we have a few fixes prepared).
  • Computer clock wrong Windows 7/11
  • Windows 10 time wrong by a few minutes (up to 1 hour)
  • Microsoft Edge time wrong
  • Windows 10 clock wrong dual boot
  • Windows 10 domain clock wrong

How do I fix the clock is out of sync Windows 10?

Before delving into the solutions in this section, below are some preliminary steps to try:

  • Update BIOS
  • Change CMOS battery
  • Check your PC battery

If this does not fix the issue, you now proceed to the fixes below:

1. Scan your computer for malware

  1. Press the Windows key, type virus, and select Virus & threat protection.
    virus how to fix time windows 10
  2. Click Scan options.
    scan option
  3. Finally, select the Full Scan option and click Scan now.
    scan now

Malware, viruses, and other cyber threats may interfere with your Windows 10 clock and cause it to display time inaccurately. Hence, you need to scan your PC for malware to fix the wrong time issue on Windows 10.

2. Check Windows Time service settings

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type services.msc, and click the OK button.
    services how to fix time windows 10
  2. Double-click the Windows Time service to open its properties.
    windows time
  3. Now, set the Startup type to Automatic.
    automatic
  4. Check the Service status. If the service is running, click Stop and then click Start again. If the service isn’t running, click the Start button to start it.
  5. Finally, click Apply and OK.
    start ok how to fix time windows 10

Another effective method to fix the wrong time on Windows 10 is ensuring the required services are running.

Few users suggest changing the Startup type to Disabled and restarting your computer. We’re not sure if changing the Startup type to Disabled works, but you could also try doing that.

3. Change the Internet Time server

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type control, and choose Control Panel from the results list.
    control pane
  2. Select the Clock and Region option.
    clock and
  3. Now, click on Date and Time.
    date and how to fix time windows 10
  4. Click the Internet Time option at the top.
  5. Next, click the Change settings button.
    internet time
  6. In the Server section, select time.nist.gov instead of time.windows.com and click Update now.
  7. Finally, click OK to save changes.
    update now

The wrong time on Windows 10 might be caused by a problem with the Internet Time Server, and you can fix it by following the steps above.

4. Unregister and register the Windows Time service

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin
  2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each: w32tm /unregisterunregister how to fix time windows 10 w32tm /registerregister net start w32timenet start how to fix time windows 10 w32tm /resyncresync
  3. Finally, wait for the commands to finish running and restart your PC.

You can also fix the wrong time on Windows 10 by re-registering the Windows Time service. This is a rather simple process; you can do it as described above.

5. Temporarily change your time zone

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Time & Language option.
    time and language
  2. Click the dropdown under the Time zone section.
    time zone how to fix time windows 10
  3. Now, select a different time zone and leave it for some minutes.
    change zone
  4. Finally, repeat the steps above and switch back to your time zone.

Some users confirmed that temporarily changing the time zone helped them fix the wrong time problem on Windows 10.

6. Remove Adobe Reader

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Apps option.
    apps
  2. Click the Adobe Reader option.
  3. Now, click the Uninstall button and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the removal process.
    uninstall adobe
  4. Change your time zone as shown in solution 5 above and restart your PC.
  5. Finally, set your time zone to the correct one and reinstall Adobe Reader.

This is a rather peculiar solution, but users claim it to fix the wrong time on Windows 10 issue. So, you should try it.

7. Add RealTimeIsUniversal DWORD in Registry Editor

This solution applies if you’re using the dual-boot of Windows 10 and Linux. If you’re not using dual-boot, you can skip this solution because it won’t work.

To complete this solution, you need to make some changes in both Linux and Windows.

  1. Log in to Linux and run the following commands as a root user: ntpdate pool.ntp.org hwclock –systohc –utc
  2. Now, restart to Windows 10, press the Windows key + R, type regedit, and click OK.
    regedit
  3. Once Registry Editor opens, navigate to the following key in the left pane: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\TimeZoneInformationpath how to fix time windows 10
  4. Right-click the space and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
    new dword
  5. Enter RealTimeIsUniversal as the name of the new value and double-click it.
    realtime
  6. Finally, set its Value data to 1 and click OK to save changes.
    value data how to fix time windows 10

After completing the aforementioned steps, you should be able to fix the wrong time on Windows 10 issue.

8. Update Windows 10

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

Running an outdated Windows 10 version may also trigger clock issues on Windows 10. Moreover, if this is a known issue, chances are that Microsoft has already fixed it in the latest patches.

With this, we can conclude this detailed guide. We believe you now have everything you need to fix the wrong time issue on Windows 10 for good.

If you are facing a related issue in Windows 10 time keeps changing, check our detailed guide to fix it convincingly.

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

Azure Functions Runtime Is Unreachable Error: Fix

Posted on by Srishti Sisodia

Azure Functions Runtime is unreachable error occurs when the Functions runtime can’t start. Usually, this happens if you have exceeded the daily execution quota or deleted the storage account.

In this guide, we will help you troubleshoot the causes of the error and resolve the issue. Let’s start!

What causes the Azure functions runtime is unreachable error?

There could be various reasons why functions app runtime error occurs; some of the popular ones are: 

  • Lost access to storage account – If the function app has lost access to the storage account, you might get this error. 
  • Storage account deleted– If you have mistakenly deleted the storage account, then you can encounter this error. You need to create a new storage account.
  • Storage account settings – If you have input the wrong credentials or deleted some of the settings, then you might get this error message. Check the storage account credentials and application settings to know the issue.
  • Daily execution quota – If you have exhausted the daily execution quota assigned, then the function app will be disabled temporarily. Increase the quota to fix the issue.
  • Network connectivity issues– If the function app has IP restrictions blocking internet access or inbound traffic, you might get this error.

How can I fix the Azure functions runtime is unreachable error?

1. Check if the storage account has been deleted 

Storage account - azure functions runtime is unreachable

All function apps need a storage account to work, and if the account is deleted, functions won’t operate. To fix this, check these elements: 

  1. First, look for your storage account in the application settings. 
  2. Now check whether WEBSITE_CONTENTAZUREFILECONNECTIONSTRING or AzureWebJobsStorage contains a storage account’s name as part of a connection string.
  3. You can also search for it in the Azure portal to confirm the storage account exists.
  4. If you can’t find the account, you need to recreate the storage account.
  5. Then, replace the storage connection strings. 
  6. Also, check for the function code; if not available, you need to deploy it again.

2. Check if storage account application settings are deleted

If the connection string was overwritten or deleted, you might not find it. This could have happened because you use Azure Resource Manager scripts or deployment slots to set application settings.

These are the actions you need to take:

  1. To avoid this error, it is recommended that you use the AzureWebJobsStorage element.
  2. Do not activate the slot setting options for any of the settings.
  3. These settings must be provided and valid at the time of the creation.

3. Check if the storage account is accessible 

storage account accessible - azure functions runtime is unreachable

The Azure function application must have access to the storage account to operate. Here are some things you need to do to resolve the issue: 

  1. Verify that the firewall for your storage account is disabled and allows incoming and outgoing traffic to the functions.
  2. Set the allowSharedKeyAccess to True as the default value.
  3. Check if the Azure function app is installed in ASE (App Service Environment) with the proper network rules, allowing incoming and outgoing traffic to the storage account. 

4. Daily execution quota exhausted

  1. Go to the Azure portal, and click Settings.
  2. Navigate to Configuration and click Function App Settings.Configuration
  3. Check the Daily Usage Quota if you have exhausted the limit.
  4. If yes, remove or increase the daily quota and restart your app. However, if you can’t do that, you must wait until the next day.

5. Check the firewall settings for the function app

A firewall could restrict the function app; check these areas to be certain: 

  1. Your function app is hosted within an App Service Environment that uses internal load balancing and is set to prevent incoming internet traffic.
  2. The function app has IP restrictions to prevent access to the internet.
  3. Once you know there are restrictions, go to the subnet’s NSG (Network Security Group), which contains the App Service Environment.
  4. Ensure that the inbound rules are set to permit traffic originating from the computer’s public IP address you are using to access the application.

6. Container errors on Linux

Docker logs download

If there is a problem with the container, then the function apps running on Linux in a container can show the error. To fix this, follow these steps: 

  1. First, follow the below-mentioned https link to go to the function app’s Kudu endpoint after replacing Function_App with the app name: https://<FUNCTION_APP>.scm.azurewebsites.net
  2. Then, download the Docker logs and analyze the content on your computer.
  3. Finally, check the logged errors to find out the reason for the error.

So, these are some things you need to check to fix azure functions; runtime is an unreachable error. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to mention them in the comments below. We will be happy to help!

The Remote Procedure Call Failed: How to Fix it

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The Windows 11 Remote Procedure Call failed is an error that indicates that a connection cannot be established. It pops up when the Remote Procedure Call software, which makes it easy to access and interact with programs on another computer remotely, encounters an issue.

Why does the Remote Procedure Call fail?

The Remote Procedure Call serves as a communication protocol for programs to request access to a program running on another computer. This error can occur for numerous reasons, but we will highlight the most important causes:

  • Poor connection – If the connection between the two computers is unstable or poor, the system won’t be able to establish communication with the remote PC, hence, this problem.
  • Incorrect settings – The RPC settings are probably not configured correctly, causing this issue.
  • Corrupted system files – If any systems have corrupted files, this error may arise.

Likewise, it can affect different procedures in the system. For instance, the Remote Procedure Call failed add a printer. It indicates that the RPC failed when adding or installing the printer driver.

Users can check our article about how to reinstall preinstalled apps in Windows 10.

How do I fix the Remote Procedure Call that failed?

1. Configure RPC settings

  1. Click on Start at the bottom of the screen and type Services in the search space.
  2. Scroll down and select Remote Procedure Call (RPC).
  3. Ensure that the Startup type is changed to Automatic.
  4. Go to DCOM Server Process Launcher and ensure that the Startup type is also set to Automatic.
  5. Navigate to Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator, then the General tab.
  6. Select Manual as the Startup type.

We recommend you restart your computer to help the changes sync better with the system.

2. Perform an SFC scan

  1. Click on the Start button and type in Command.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. Select Run as administrator, wait for the software to launch, then type the following in the search space and press Enter: sfc /scannow

Wait for the command to run the diagnosis to scan and detect the faulty files. It can help fix the Remote Procedure Call that failed Windows 10 at login problems.

You can also choose a tool that performs all these steps automatically, as it may be a valuable option that helps you find damaged files and repair or replace them instantly from its massive repository.

3. Run Windows Troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to prompt Settings or type troubleshoot in the search space and press Enter.
  2. Select Troubleshoot from the results.
  3. Navigate to Other troubleshooters and select the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.
  4. Click on Run to start the process and follow the on-screen instructions.

The diagnosis will help you detect where the error is from. It is an effective fix for Excel app errors like the Remote Procedure Call failed exception from the result: 0x800706be.

4. Reinstall the services

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd, and select Run as administrator from the results.
  2. Type the following commands one by one in Command Prompt and press Enter after each one:
net start rpcss
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

5. Scan your computer for malware

  1. Click Start and type in Virus.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection from the results.
  3. Click on Advanced scan and select Full scan, then click Scan now.

The Windows Defender will scan your computer for Malware. Delete them if there are any detected.

A faster solution would be TotalAV because it offers excellent protection and strong performance. It protects your devices from malware, phishing scams, ransomware, and other online threats.

⇒ Get TotalAV

Some of our readers asked: What happens if I disable the Remote Procedure Call?

Disabling the Remote Procedure Call on your computer will affect the functionality of services dependent on it. Likewise, it may result in the breakdown or malfunction of the PC. It impedes the communication between the Windows app and services.

These are the most effective fixes that can solve the Windows 11 remote procedure call failed problem. Ensure to follow the steps outlined for each solution to get optimal results.

Users may be interested in reading about how to fix Windows if it couldn’t connect to the update service.

Also, if you have questions and suggestions about this post, you can leave them in the comments section. We’d like your feedback.

Fix: GeForce Game Ready Driver Installation Can’t Continue

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The GeForce Experience is a unified driver and software package by NVIDIA that allows you to install the latest driver update as soon as a new game comes out.

However, you may encounter difficulties, resulting in error messages like GeForce Game Ready driver installation can’t continue.

Why does GeForce Game Ready Driver keep failing during installation?

GeForce Game Ready Drivers installation cannot continue error may occur on your PC for several reasons:

  • Outdated graphics card driver – The GeForce Game Ready Drivers installation process may run into problems if the graphics card driver on your computer is outdated.
  • Outdated operating system – Your OS version may not be compatible with the driver you want to install, so it’ll prevent it from installing. Try to update your system.
  • Interference with other apps – Applications such as antivirus can affect the installation process, preventing it from running on your device.
  • Issues with the GeForce Experience App / Installation files – One or more GeForce Experience installation files may be corrupted, or the installation of the app was not complete.

Read about what to do if Nvidia Control Panel is not working on your PC.

What can I do if GeForce drivers can’t continue the installation?

Before going into more complicated solutions, there are a few steps that may fix the problem quickly:

  • Restart the app and your system. As simple as it seems, this might fix everything like magic.
  • Install all the latest Windows updates. An update might contain important fixes or driver updates you are missing.
  • Make sure you have at least 3GB of free space on your drive to install GeForce Experience.
  • Reinstall the Nvidia GeForce Experience and Nvidia Graphics Driver apps using the Windows Settings app.

If these preliminary fixes didn’t solve the problem with GeForce Game Ready Driver, proceed with the solutions below.

1. Update the Nvidia graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run console, type devmgmt.msc into the search space and click OK.
  2. In the search results, click on Display adapters and select the Nvidia driver from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click the Update driver software option and select Search automatically for drivers.

Restart your computer after the updating process is complete, and check if you can install the GeForce Game Ready driver.

2. Disable Windows Defender Firewall

  1. Click on Start and type Windows Security in the search box.
  2. Select Windows Security from the search results.
  3. Click Virus & threat protection on the Windows Security tab.
  4. Then select Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
  5. Toggle off Real-time protection and restart the PC.

If you have a third-party antivirus installed, open its settings and disable it temporarily from there.

3. End all NVIDIA background processes

  1. Click on the Start menu, then type taskmgr in the search box.
  2. Select Task Manager from the search result.
  3. Go to the Processes tab and find the NVIDIA processes, then right-click on each and click on the End Task option to end all the processes.
  4. Restart your computer.

4. Install the GeForce driver manually

  1. Go to Nvidia’s driver download page and search for the correct Game Ready driver for your system.
  2. Once you have found the driver, hit the Download button.
  3. You will be prompted that you can optionally get the latest GeForce Experience app. Click the Download button.
  4. After the download finishes, press the Windows key + E to start File Explorer, go to the Downloads folder, right-click the file, and select Run as administrator.
  5. Go through with the installation and restart your PC afterward.

5. Restart the NVIDIA services

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press ENTER.
  3. Scroll through and find services running in NVIDIA.
  4. Right-click on each of them to select the Restart option.

We recommend you restart your computer and check if you can install the GeForce Game Ready driver.

What happens if I uninstall GeForce Experience?

Uninstalling the GeForce Experience on your computer won’t affect its performance. However, you won’t be able to access and use the features that come with the suite.

Consider, for instance, checking for the latest drivers for your graphics card.

These are the best fixes for the GeForce game-ready driver installation can’t continue issue. If you follow all the outlined steps, the problem should be solved.

Nevertheless, you can read about how to fix the NVIDIA drivers not installing errors on Windows 11.

Likewise, we have a detailed guide about Nvidia GeForce Experience not working and how you can get it working in just a few steps.

Users also complain about Nvidia graphics cards not being detected in Windows 11, so you can check how to fix it.

If you have any questions or potential solutions that may work, let us know in the comments section below.

Windows 11’s Paint app received further cosmetic improvements

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

We’ve already discussed the fact that most of the apps on Windows 11 got redesigned and modernized, to fit the new software environment they are in.

The redesign process for Paint was among the most requested, as for some reason, people can’t let go of this classic Windows app.

Now, Microsoft has considered that the properties window for the popular app could also use some refurbishing.

If you, however, use Paint 3D instead of Paint, we can show you how to easily download, install and make the most of it on your PC.

The Properties box for Paint is brought up to standards

The Redmond-based tech giant has just provided a brand new update for the Paint app in Windows Insiders’ Dev Channel.

Now, even though there is still no promised dark mode support, Windows Insiders will be glad to know that the app now has a redesigned Image Properties dialog box that looks on par with the rest of Windows 11’s UI.

After this redesign, the Image Properties dialog lets you check out file attributes, such as last saved, size on disk, and the image resolution.

Furthermore, you can also change units (inches, centimeters, and pixels), color mode, and adjust the image size.

Also, with this latest update, the Image Properties UI features Windows 11-like radio buttons, input boxes, better fonts, and an overall nicer-look aesthetic.

As you know, you can download the latest Paint update directly from the Microsoft Store. Please note that the redesigned Image Properties UI is only available to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.

We’ll keep an eye out and report on upcoming changes as well. Be sure to leave your thoughts, opinions and suggestions in the comments section below.

How to Fix PS4 Error SU-42118-6 in 5 Easy Steps

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

PlayStation users have been experiencing SU-42118-6 on their Slim consoles for a while now, along with other PS4 errors such as SU-30746-0 and SU-30767-3.

The tricky thing about PS4 error code SU-42118-6 and the others is that the messages only display the numerical codes with no real clue as to what causes the issue.

Don’t worry, we’ll not only show you how to fix PS4 SU 42118 6 but also understand what triggers it and how to avoid it in the future.

What is the error code SU 42118 6?

PS4 error SU-42118-6 comes from a broken ribbon connector between your motherboard and BD-ROM. You risk triggering it if you disassemble your console either while cleaning it or for another reason.

When this happens, the system won’t be able to communicate with the BD-ROM.

Improper assembling of your PS4 hardware can also cause it to start turning off randomly. Thus, SU-42118-6 can often leave you stuck in a restart loop.

You may have also stumbled upon this variation of the error: PS4 system software update error SU-42118-6.

If your console cannot find an appropriate firmware update file, it will simply say that an error has occurred SU-42118-6.

You usually get PS4 update error SU-42118-6 when you’ve not updated your console for a long time, and the firmware version it runs is no longer supported by Sony.

The issue is pretty similar to SU-30746-0 which displays a black screen with the following error message whenever you boot your PS4 console:

An error has occurred.

(SU-30746-0)

If you are facing this challenge on your console, continue to the troubleshooting section below.

How do I fix my PS4 system update error SU-42118-6?

1. Reboot the console with Safe Mode

  1. Turn off the system completely and leave it off for around one minute.
  2. Press and hold the Power button (release the button when it beeps twice).
  3. Connect your controller to the PS4 by USB cable and hit the PlayStation button to pair the controller.
  4. Once you successfully pair your controller to the system, restart the console again.
  5. Press X on the controller to reboot via Safe Mode.

When the device turns on, it should no longer display the PS4 error code SU-42118-6. If it does, try the next method below.

2. Update the PS4 via Safe Mode

  1. Power off the system completely.
  2. Download the most recent PS4 firmware version.
  3. Save the file in an external USB drive, such as a hard drive or USB disk. If your console is connected to an ethernet network, you can skip this step.
  4. Press and hold the Power button until the console beeps twice.
  5. In Safe Mode, connect your controller to the PS4 via a USB cable and press the PlayStation button to pair them.
  6. Go to Update System Software and press the X button on the controller to select the option.
  7. If you’re using an ethernet network, select Update Using Internet.
  8. If not, insert the USB with the downloaded firmware and select the Update from USB Storage Device option.
  9. Restart the PS4 console and confirm that SU-42118-6 is cleared.

3. Initialize the console via Safe Mode

  1. Power off the console and leave it off for around one minute.
  2. Press and hold the Power button, and stop pressing after the console beeps twice.
  3. Connect your PS4 controller to the system with the use of a USB cable and pair them by pressing the PlayStation button.
  4. Next, select Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software).
  5. Click on the Yes button and hit X.
  6. Finally, restart the PS4 console.

4. Restore the PS4 to default settings via Safe Mode

  1. Turn off your console completely.
  2. Next, press and hold down the Power button and wait until the system beeps twice.
  3. In Safe Mode, attach your PS4 controller using a USB cable.
  4. Press the PlayStation button to pair it to the console.
  5. Scroll down and select the Restore Default Settings option.
  6. Click on Yes with the X button, and this will restore the console to default settings.

5. Check the BD-ROM ribbon and replace your HDD

As already mentioned, the issue can not be related to software at all, but to a broken ribbon connector between your motherboard and BD-ROM.

To fix it, investigate the BD-ROM ribbon connection between the drive and the motherboard. Check for broken tabs, and if any, replace the damaged component.

Replacing the hard disk drive on your console usually gets rid of PS4 error code SU-42118-6. Nevertheless, some users reported the issue resurfaces if you attempt to update the console on the replacement HDD.

As you can see, the PS4 error SU-42118-6 can be a software issue or a result of faulty hardware.

Replacing your HDD will solve this in most cases. However, we encourage you to try all the solutions listed here.

SU-41350-3 and PlayStation WC-36547-5 are similar errors, so don’t miss their guides for more potential solutions.

Don’t hesitate to let us know if you found this guide helpful by using the comment section below.

Windows Defender Engine Unavailable: How to Fix This Error

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

You will find multiple user reports on users complaining about an error that reads Windows Defender Engine unavailable. This prevents the users from installing the security updates and also does not allow them to safeguard their PCs against threats.

Suppose you are also facing similar issues and are looking for solutions. In that case, we suggest you check out the solutions mentioned in this guide and hopefully fix the Windows Defender engine unavailable error. So let us get right into this guide.

Why am I getting the Windows Defender engine unavailable error?

Take a look at the most common reasons that could trigger the Windows Defender Engine unavailable error we found out after carefully digging through the internet:

  • There are some issues with the Windows update: Some internal problems with the Windows update might be causing the Windows Defender Engine unavailable error.
  • Windows Security is experiencing some issues: Chances are some critical files are facing issues running in your PC related to Windows Security that is causing the problem.
  • Corrupt system files: If essential system files are missing or corrupt in your PC, then this could trigger multiple issues.
  • Third-party antivirus is conflicting: You should ensure that you do not have any third-party antivirus installed on your PC if you are already using Windows Defender. This could cause both programs to misbehave.

How can I fix the Windows Defender engine unavailable error?

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Press the Win + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Click on Troubleshoot.
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.
  4. Click on the Run button for the Windows Update.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the scan.
  6. Apply the fix prompted by the troubleshooter.
  7. Once the fix is applied, restart your PC.

Some typical issues can be easily fixed by running the Windows Update troubleshooter. For example, you can follow the above steps and check if this resolves the issue of Windows Defender Engine being unavailable because the definition updates for Windows Defender are rolled out via Windows updates.

2. Manually install Security Intelligence updates

  1. Visit the official Microsoft website.
  2. Scroll down, and under the Latest security intelligence update heading, you will find the information about the latest available security intelligence update.
  3. Click on the version of your PC and download the update.
  4. Launch the update and install it by following the on-screen instructions.

If the Windows update isn’t downloading for some reason, you can manually download the latest security update on your PC.

3. Fix corrupt system files

  1. Press the Win key to open the Start.
  2. Run Command Prompt as an admin.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter.sfc /scannowCMD sfcscannow
  4. After the process completes, type the below command and press Enter.DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthdism restore system detected an overrun of a stack-based buffer
  5. Restart your PC.

You can take the help of the in-built SFC Scan, and DISM commands to fix corrupt system files or missing system files and also resolve several problems. However, these SFC and DISM commands often don’t help improve the corrupt system files.

So, we suggest you use a dedicated system repair and optimization software. With these tools, you can fix system crashes, and damaged DLLs, remove ransomware from your PC, and much more.

4. 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 path. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender
  4. Double-click on the DisableAntiSpyware key.
  5. Change the value to 0.
  6. Open the DisableAntiVirus key.
  7. Change the value to 0.
  8. If the keys are missing, right-click on an empty space, select New, and click on DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  9. Name the key DisableAntiSpyware.
  10. Set the value to 0
  11. Perform the same steps for DisableAntiVirus.

5. Reset Windows Security

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type wt.exe and hit Enter.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.SecHealthUI | Reset-AppxPackage
  4. Exit the Windows Terminal.
  5. Restart your PC.

There might be some issues with the program which is why it can’t load all the files correctly. In such a case, you should reset the Windows Security tool and check if this resolves the Windows Defender Engine unavailable error.

6. Reset your PC

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

If none of the above solutions fixed the problem for you, you should go ahead and reset your PC following the above steps, as this would help you reset your PC without deleting your files.

That is it from us in this guide. We have a guide that will help users facing the Virus & threat protection option that isn’t working on their Windows 11 PC.

You can also refer to our guide on the missing Windows Defender from your Windows 11 PC, which will help you resolve the issues and get back to Windows Defender pretty quickly.

Feel free to share your views on which solutions helped you fix the Windows Defender Engine unavailable problem in the comments below.

DirectStorage will only work on Windows 11 for the Forspoken title

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

It’s time to touch on some gaming, and what better title to start 2023 with, than the upcoming Forespoken title, which looks amazing.

If you remember, back in March 2020, Forspoken, which was the first title set to receive Microsoft’s DirectStorage API support was shown off yielding very impressive numbers.

On the off chance you don’t remember what DirectStorage is, it is actually a feature that was designed to take advantage of the latent power of NVMe SSDs, especially in games.

At first, it was announced that both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users are going to benefit from it, but it was later disclosed that it will only be available for Windows 11.

The better Forspoken experience will be on Windows 11

Note that, in some instances, the new storage API was up to 70% better than legacy technology, but the title kept getting delayed over and over until Square Enix finally settled on a release date.

This new gaming-oriented feature promised enormous improvements in performance over legacy technology and preliminary tests indeed show extremely impressive results.

Ever since Forspoken’s launch, enthusiasts have been testing the tech inside the game, trying to better grasp the benefits and see if it has drawbacks too.

The overall verdict has generally been positive, and by a large margin as well. Game and game-level loading times have improved tremendously as a result.

Even for a title as heavy and intense as this, navigating between the menu and the game has been a breeze, according to users.

At 1440p and higher resolutions, DirectStorage has virtually no impact on frame rate. When CPU limited at 1080p, however, DirectStorage can have a significant positive effect on frame rate, frame time consistency, and GPU utilization.

If you are actually looking towards performance improvement aspects of the feature like in framerate terms, there are positives to share here as well.

In fact, the frame timings have been smoothed out in Forspoken, which will lead to much tighter percentile low figures.

As gamers know, in real life, this should translate to smoother gameplay even when textures and other assets are streaming in and out of disk.

That being said, it looks like the biggest benefit of this technology will be seen at lower resolutions, such as 1080p.

Tech-savvy gamers that tested it noted that, at Full HD resolution, the frame times were much better due to better CPU utilization when DirectStorage was enabled.

Of course, this might have to do with GPU decompression working behind the scenes as it is known to reduce CPU overhead.

Thus, DirectStorage looks like a big reason to be excited in the case of SSDs. However, not every NVMe-related news is positive. 

At first glance, the CPU and GPU requirements seem, seem fairly reasonable as an Nvidia GTX 1060 / RX 5500 XT alongside 3rd Gen Core i7 / 1st Gen Ryzen 5, are the minimum recommended specs.

That is until you see that this is only meant for a 720p30 experience. The system memory and storage requirements too are certainly anything but modest.

Furthermore, even minimum specs suggest you need 16GB of system RAM and 150GB of HDD storage. Expectedly, the requirements only get even more expensive from there.

And, in case you are wondering what you get for all these hefty requirements, Luminous Productions has also detailed some of the PC features that Forspoken brings to PCs.

Note that even though the title is supported on Windows 10 November 2019 update or later, it looks like DirectStorage will only work on Windows 11.

Previously, Microsoft has stated that the newer OS features additional optimizations in the IO stack even though the technology should work on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

This new storage API was built on Xbox Velocity architecture and was set to revolutionize gaming. Early demos had shown extremely promising results and third-party testing on compatible hardware was equally impressive.

Earlier today, the Senior Social Media Manager at Square Enix, Sunil Godhania, published some expected performance numbers when DirectStorage is used.

He mentioned NVMe drives should reduce load times to around a couple of seconds, and SATA SSDs on the other hand will be able to do the same job in around 10 seconds.

Twitter users also noted the load times where the game loaded back into the level almost in the blink of an eye when the Continue option was clicked.

That being said, not every scene may yield great results, as many note that their loading times were far longer, with a few scenes taking over six seconds, even on a WD_BLACK SN850 Gen4 NVMe SSD.

However, we have to keep in mind that it’s a fairly new release which means the future overall looks really bright for DirectStorage and gaming on NVMe SSDs.

Have you already bought Forespoken for your gaming rig? Share your excitement and concerns with us in the comments section below.

Microsoft fears CMA will join the FTC in attempting to block its Activision deal, according to sources

Posted on by Kareem Anderson

While the Federal Trade Commission has been openly vocal about its intention to block Microsoft from acquiring mega-game publisher Activision Blizzard, the company remained hopeful that other regulators would be more favorable to the deal but it looks like that optimism is fading.

According to a New York Times report, four anonymous sources that have been briefed on the CMA’s investigation into the Activision deal, are saying that even Microsoft believes the UKs regulatory body is preparing to issue a block to the acquisition.

Microsoft has been public about its intentions to work with regulatory bodies to grease the wheels of an approval for its Activision bid, but has yet to receive a list of concessions from concerned authorities.

Despite Microsoft’s eagerness to work with antitrust regulators, authorities remain critical of the implications of such a high-profile merger as the Activision deal could result in with FTC bureau of competition director Holly Vedova stating, “today we seek to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a leading independent game studio and using it to harm competition in multiple dynamic and fast-growing gaming markets.”

Game industry competitors have also voiced their concerns about Microsoft buying Activision Blizzard both publicly and in Sony’s case, directly with antitrust regulators, meanwhile Microsoft continues to maintain that it believes many of those concerns are overblown hypotheticals that simply don’t make business sense.

Sony is the console market leader and it would defy business logic for us to exclude PlayStation gamers from the Call of Duty ecosystem. Our goal is to bring Call of Duty and other games—as we did with Minecraft—to more people around the world so they can play them where and how they want. – Microsoft communications lead Frank Shaw.

When questioned about the New York Times report by the publication Game Developer, a Microsoft spokesperson says that its legal team hasn’t indicated the deal will be blocked in the UK and that the company has a “strong case” in the country.

Microsoft and Activision had hoped to have the deal approved by all the necessary regulatory bodies by June of 2023, but it’s looking like they may need to readjust their calendars soon.

Fix Do You Want to Allow This App From an Unknown Publisher

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Have you been wondering why you keep getting the error message: do you want to allow this app from an unknown publisher to make changes to your device? If so, you’re in luck.

What does it mean when it says do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device? Is it safe to download from unknown publisher? These are all legitimate questions that we shall try to address.

We’ll explain that as well as how to get rid of this obsessively recurrent UAC permissions issue for good.

In fact, you can fix this unknown publisher error with the solutions we have compiled for you. But first things first.

Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device what does it mean?

This error popup usually occurs when you attempt to launch a particular program on your Windows PC.

It may imply that the program does not have a valid certificate root authority or that it fails to satisfy UAC requirements in order to obtain permissions.

Sometimes, it can be a valid warning, but that is not always the case. Occasional glitches or improper system settings can just as well be triggering it.

Let’s quickly review some of the most common issues reported by our users:

  • Do you want to allow this app from an unknown publisher Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows 7
  • Windows has found a problem with this file cesu4650.exe – Cesu4650.exe unknown publisher Epson
  • Unknown publisher error – UAC unknown publisher
  • Do you want to allow this app to make changes when uninstalling apps
  • Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device only option is NO

So, how do you fix do you want to allow this app from an unknown publisher to make changes to your device? Read on to find out.

How do I fix unknown publisher warning?

  1. Repair your file registry
  2. Run a full system scan
  3. Modify UAC settings in Control Panel
  4. Create an elevated shortcut to bypass UAC

1. Repair your file registry

  1. Type cmd in the home screen search bar.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.do you want to allow this app from an unknown publisher run cmd as admin
  3. Now type sfc /scannow and hit Enter.do you want to allow this app from an unknown publisher sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the scanning process to complete and then restart your computer. All corrupted files will be repaired on reboot.

As you can imagine, the mentioned error message may be caused by a corrupted file registry in the system. This corruption manipulates the program registry file data, thereby causing the error message.

The SFC scan tool provides a convenient way to repair corrupted system files in Windows 10. Nevertheless, running command strings might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

If you prefer an easier way to deal with digital corruption, go ahead and try a specialized file repair software program.

2. Run a full system scan

  1. Type windows defender in the home screen search box and launch the tool.
  2. In the left-hand panel of the program, select the shield icon.windows defender antivirus and threat protection
  3. Go to Scan options and choose Advanced scan.scan options windows defender
  4. Check the full scan option to launch a full system scan.

3. Modify UAC settings in Control Panel

  1. Go to Control Panel.
  2. Locate System and Security and click on Action Center.control panel system and security
  3. From the left pane, select the Change User Account Control settings option.control panel UAC
  4. Drag the scroll button to Never notify.UAC never notify
  5. Finally, click on OK and launch the program again.

User Account Control (UAC) is a security feature that notifies you before changes are made to your Windows PC.

These notifications appear whenever you want to run some programs that require Administrator level permissions, or when the program you run does not have a valid certificate root authority

In order to prevent this error message, you may have to disable the notifications from the UAC settings.

Note icon NOTE
Turning off UAC may enable potentially dangerous applications to make changes on your PC. Ensure you have a strong and active antivirus program in place before you try out this fix.

4. Create an elevated shortcut to bypass UAC

  1. In the home screen search field, type Schedule Tasks and hit Enter.task scheduler
  2. In the Actions tab, click on Create Task.create a task
  3. Under the General tab, give the task a name of your choice (preferably a name you can identify with the affected program).
  4. Tick the Run with highest privileges box.
  5. Proceed by clicking on the Action tab and then, on the New button.
  6. Browse to the folder location of the affected program.
  7. Click on the Settings tab and tick the Allow task to be run on demand box, then OK.
  8. Next, right-click on the desktop and select New > Shortcut.
  9. In the Create Shortcut wizard, type: schtasks /run /TN task name
  10. Click on next and proceed with the prompts to complete the shortcut creation.
  11. Right-click on the new shortcut, go to Properties, and Change icon.
  12. Select your preferred icon, and then click OK.Windows icons too small
Note icon NOTE
After these steps above, double-click on the shortcut so as to launch the program. This procedure will enable you to bypass the error message.

Any of the fixes above will solve the error message do you want to allow this app from an unknown publisher to make changes to your device on your Windows PC.

Feel free to comment below if you have any additional solutions that you’ve successfully used to fix this.

Malwarebytes Blue Screen: Use These 4 Solutions to Fix it

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Malwarebytes is one of the most robust anti-malware programs available, eliminating advanced threats from your PC.

While incremental security application updates help improve performance, some users still experience several issues, including occasional crashes and blue screens of death.

We will cover that in the article, explaining in great detail what you can do to stop BSoDs caused by running Malwarebytes.

Why is Malwarebytes causing a blue screen?

There can be various reasons why Malwarebytes can cause a blue screen (also known as the “blue screen of death” or BSOD) error on your Windows PC. Some common reasons include the following:

  • Compatibility issues – If you’re running an older version of Malwarebytes on an outdated version of Windows, it may not be compatible with your system and cause a BSOD error.
  • Conflicts with other software – Malwarebytes can sometimes conflict with other security software or drivers installed on your system, causing a BSOD error.
  • Corrupted or outdated drivers – Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause a BSOD error, and Malwarebytes may identify these drivers during a scan and trigger a BSOD error.
  • Malware or virus infections – Malwarebytes is designed to detect and remove malware and viruses from your system. However, it may cause a BSOD error if it encounters hazardous malware.

We will now explore some of the top recommended solutions.

How can I fix Malwarebyte’s blue screen?

Before you jump into the recommended solutions, consider using another antivirus software. There are many good options, and you may be able to avoid this issue.

You should consider the most reliable antivirus tools on Windows 10 and enhance your security without causing system errors.

1. Reinstall Malwarebytes

  1. Download the Malwarebytes Support Tool.
  2. Run the installer, and press OK in the UAC pop-up. You need Microsoft .NET 4.0 Framework to be installed.
  3. Check the empty checker box in the Malwarebytes Software License Agreement pop-up window and click Next.
  4. After it is installed, open the Malwarebytes Support Tool and select Advanced.
    malwarebytes blue screen
  5. In the Advanced Options, select Clean and then Yes.
  6. Restart your PC.
  7. The UAC pop-up will appear again, and you need to click Yes.
  8. When prompted with the Reinstall Malwarebytes for Windows pop-up window, click Yes.
  9. Select where you want to reinstall Malwarebytes, and click Install.

2. Turn off Fast Startup

  1. Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to the path below:
    Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Power Options
  3. Click on the Choose what the power buttons do link.
  4. Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  5. Uncheck the Turn on fast startup box from under the Shutdown settings.

3. Disable any other conflicting antivirus

While Malwarebytes is a complete security solution, some users prefer installing it with other antivirus tools, such as Bitdefender. Still, the problem is that having two antivirus tools can lead to issues.

Many users suggested disabling web filtering in Bitdefender.

Another similar solution would be to disable Web Protection in Malwarebytes since that may also help.

4. Run a third-party BSoD troubleshooter

BSoDs and crashes can be caused by many things, ranging from hardware incompatibilities to software inconsistencies, which makes identifying the problem complicated and time-consuming.

That’s precisely why third-party software solutions are becoming more and more of an acceptable alternative since they run your PC through a complete set of troubleshooting steps with minimal user input.

Thus, you can remove the specified corrupted or malfunctioning software files that determine such BSoD issues. The process is mainly automated, so the job is finished within a few minutes.

This pretty much wraps up our troubleshooting guide covering BSoDs triggered when running Malwarebytes.

Let us know which solution you went for by leaving us your feedback below.

Additionally, you can use the comments section to add other solutions we may have missed out on, and we will update the article accordingly.

Still using Xbox 360 marketplace? Microsoft has bad news

Posted on by Rafly Gilang

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

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

Is Microsoft shutting down Xbox 360 marketplace?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

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

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

Why is Steam not opening?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Use a command

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

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

2. End Steam processes

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

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

3. Update PC

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

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

4. Enter Safe Mode

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

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

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

5. Reinstall Steam

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

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

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

⇒ Get Steam [Latest version for Windows 10]

6. Perform a system restore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

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

What causes the Minecraft Deep Ocean error code?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Update the Minecraft client on your PC

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

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

2. Repair the app

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

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

3. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter

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

4. Temporarily disable Windows Defender Firewall

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

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

5. End task for Minecraft

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Easy Fixes to Tinder Failed to Update Profile Pic

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

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

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

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

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

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

Why won’t Tinder upload my photos?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I fix Tinder error updating profile?

1. Update your Tinder profile picture the proper way

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

2. Restart your mobile

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

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

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

3.1. Update Tinder on Android

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

3.2. Steps to update Tinder on iOS

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

4. Clear Data & Cache

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

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

5. Contact Tinder Customer care

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

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

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

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

The Information further noted:

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

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

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

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

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

via: Thurrott

Four upcoming indie games showcased at special ID@Xbox event

Posted on by Robert Collins

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

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

Planet of Lana (Wishfully)

 

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

The Last Case of Benedict Fox (Plot Twist)

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

The game will launch on April 27th.

Everspace 2 (Rockfish Games)

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

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

Lightyear Frontier (FRAME BREAK AB, Amplifier Game Invest)

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

Release date TBA.

Wrap up

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

Via glitched.online. 

 

 

5 Best Bose Receiver for your Speakers: Best Sounds Only

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

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

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

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

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

What are the best stereo receivers for Bose speakers?

Sony STRDH190 2-ch – Best overall

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

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

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

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

Donner Stereo Receiver – Great budget solution

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

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

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

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

Pyle PT696BT.7 – Rather powerful

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

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

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

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

Bose Music Amplifier – Wi-Fi powered

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

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

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

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

Onkyo TX-SR393 – Offers high-quality sound

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 Ways to Prevent Automatic Dimming of the Laptop Screen

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

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

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

Why is my screen dimming automatically?

Here are a few reasons you are facing the problem:

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

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

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

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

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

1. Disable adaptive brightness

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

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

2. Update your display driver

2.1 Update drivers manually

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

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

2.2 Update drivers automatically

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

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

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

Outbyte Driver Updater

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

3. Disable the device

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

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

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

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

Fix: Mouse and Keyboard Not Working After Power Outage

Posted on by Cesar Cadenas

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

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

What other problems can a power outage cause?

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

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

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

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

Here’s what you should do first:

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

1. Run Hardware Troubleshooter

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

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

2. Reinstall drivers for the mouse and keyboard

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

3. Turn off Power Management settings

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

4. Run System File Checker

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

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

5. Run Disk Check

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

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

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

6. Clean boot Windows 11

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

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

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

7. Disable Selective Suspend

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

What can I do if my motherboard is failing?

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

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

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

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

Best Browsers For Windows XP to Use in 2026

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

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

Let’s check them out:

Which web browser still supports Windows XP?

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

1. Supermium – Best overall

supermium main window

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

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

Other great features:

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

⇒ Get Supremium

2. MyPal 68 – Fast browser

mypal browser open

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

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

Other features:

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

⇒ Get MyPal 68

3. K-Meleon – Lightweight browser

k-meleon browser main page

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

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

Other features:

  • Highly customizable
  • Works with extensions
  • Low resource usage

⇒ Get K-Meleon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by davew

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

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

What are “Saved” messages in Microsoft Teams?

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

Save messages in Microsoft Teams

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

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

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

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

Why would you want to save messages in Teams?

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

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

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

Conclusion

save messages in microsoft teams

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

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

Posted on by Claire Moraa

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

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

What is a hard error?

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

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

Some of the common triggers for this error include:

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

How do I fix an unknown hard error?

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

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

1. Run the DISM and SFC scans 

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

2. Run the CHKDSK command 

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

3. Run a virus scan 

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

4. Uninstall recent Windows updates 

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

5. Check for Windows updates 

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

6. Uninstall recently downloaded programs

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

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

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

7. Run the Windows update troubleshooter

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

8. Check for errors on the system drive 

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

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

9. Perform a Clean boot

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

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

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

What are the possible causes for the AACS decoding error?

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

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

What are the variations of AACS decoding errors?

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

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

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

1. Add libraries files to AACS

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

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

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

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

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

2. Remove AACS protection using Leawo Blu-ray Ripper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

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

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

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

1. Use the Control Panel

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

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

    2. Via Command Prompt

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

    command prompt to find wifi password in Windows 10

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

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

    command

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

    find password in Windows 10

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

    key content

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Claire Moraa

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

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

Can you run Sysprep in Windows 11?

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

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

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

This tool has many advantages over other methods:

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

How do I run Sysprep?

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

1. Enter Audit mode

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

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

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

2. Generalize Windows

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

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

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

How can I run Android apps on my Steam Deck?

Use Genymotion

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

1.1 Download Genymotion

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

1.2 Configure the emulator

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

1.3 Download additional files

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

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

Does Steam have Android games?

games

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

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

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

Quick Tip:

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

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

Opera One

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

Why Google Chrome cannot uninstall?

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

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

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

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

What can I do if Chrome won’t uninstall?

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

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

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

1. Close all Chrome processes

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

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

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

2. Disable background apps from running

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

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

3. Disable any third-party extensions

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

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

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

Can I delete Google Chrome from my computer?

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

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

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

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

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

Opera Failed to Install: How to Permanently Fix it

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

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

Why won’t Opera install?

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

How do I fix Opera not installing?

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

1. Install Opera through the offline installer

  1. 1. Visit the Opera download page.

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

    opera offline download 64bit

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

    opera-browser-failed-install

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

    opera-browser-failed-install

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

    opera-browser-failed-install

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

    opera-browser-failed-install

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

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

Opera

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

2. Use Opera FTP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

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

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

What is the desktop.ini file in Windows 10?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WDAGUtilityAccount: What is it & Should you Disable it?

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

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

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

What is WDAGUtilityAccount?

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

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

How do I enable or disable the WDAGUtilityAccount?

1. Use the Windows features

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

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

2. Use the Computer Management feature

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

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

How can I check if WDAGUtilityAccount is enabled?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Fix Windows 10 Stuck in Boot Loop After Reset

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

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

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

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

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

1. Enter Safe mode

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

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

2. Disable Auto-restart and run SFC

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

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

Follow these steps to run SFC:

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

3. Repair Startup

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

4. Use Tenorshare Windows Boot Genius

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

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

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

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

⇒ Get Tenorshare Boot Genius

 5. Use a bootable drive for a manual repair

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

6. Format everything and reinstall Windows 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by Ola-Hassan Bolaji

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

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

What is Wsappx?

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

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

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

Why is Wsappx taking so much CPU?

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

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

How do I fix Wsappx’s high CPU usage?

1. Scan for malware

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

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

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

⇒ Get TotalAV

2. Update your PC

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

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

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

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

3. Stop automatic store app updates

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

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

4. Disable Windows Store

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

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

5. Reinstall Windows Store

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

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

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

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

Critical Service Failed BSoD on Windows 10: Fix & Causes

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

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

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

What is the cause of critical service failed?

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

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

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

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

How can I fix the Critical Service Failure BSoD error?

1. Perform a System Restore from Safe Mode

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

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

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

2. Repair Windows 10 using Windows Install Media

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

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

3. Use a dedicated tool

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

4. Refresh your Windows 10

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

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

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

5. Perform a clean reinstallation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by John Nedelcu

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

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

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

What causes the D3D error?

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

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

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

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

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

1. Verify the integrity of game files

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

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

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

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

2. Update Windows to the latest version

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

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

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

3. Update your graphics drivers

3.1 Updating Nvidia graphics cards

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

3.2 Updating AMD graphics cards

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

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

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

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

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

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

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Set game launch options

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

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

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

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

5. Run the game in compatibility mode

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

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

6. Enable services

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

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

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

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