How to share new LinkedIn posts with your followers

Posted on January 31, 2023September 2, 2025 by Radu Tyrsina

Posting on LinkedIn is similar to posting on Facebook. Write an update, and send it right? Well, Not quite. LinkedIn has a few extra features that you can use to make sure that your post gets to the audience it was intended for.

It is important to make sure that you have good quality content to share and share content regularly. Getting engagement is often difficult across social media as people scroll by. However, tagging someone with their name in a post is more likely to foster engagement from the person you have tagged.

You can use hashtags to demonstrate the topic of the post. Hashtags will ensure that your content is found when searching for the hashtag, and the algorithm will also recognise the hashtag and surface it in searches.

Rich media, i.e. posts with video and images are more likely to get engagement and clicks compared to text postings – as well as thought leadership posts looking forward in your industry. We all want to know what will happen next.

Commenting on newsworthy topics will highlight you as a thought leader in the field and bring followers to hear your thoughts about the industry.

To post an update, click in the ‘Start a post’ dialog box at the top of your page on the LinkedIn desktop. You will see that you can adjust the audience for the post.

You can share the post with anyone on or off LinkedIn, only your followers, or a particular group you are a member of. If you select the Groups option – a list of all of the groups you are a member of appears for you to choose which group to post to.

If you have connected your Twitter account to Twitter you can also share your post with your Twitter followers.

You can choose to share the post with your connections only – which makes this visible to all of your first-degree connections across LinkedIn.

You can share other content in addition to mere text. You can click the camera icon to share photos, or the video icon to share videos. If videos are your thing, keep them short and snappy with a great opening sentence, and keep the video to under two minutes if possible.

How to improve LinkedIn engagement

Videos are great for you to share tips about your industry, showcase events you attend or make your point with a demo. These videos do not need to be professionally shot. Hold your phone camera, point it at your face, hit record, and start talking. It is a good idea to use an external microphone and head[hones if possible to get a clearer sound.

You can also share documents across LinkedIn – a great way to get corporate information to your followers.

You can click on the ‘Write Article’ icon to publish posts on your company page – or a page you manage. Remember, headlines are important, so craft them well. If you wouldn’t click on the headline, then there’s a chance that no one else will too. Keep headlines punchy, concise, and meaningful, which will drive more clicks.

Try not to write articles that are too short – or too verbose either. The best articles are between 500 and 1000 words long for the best engagement.

Schedule your posts

A nifty feature recently introduced in LinkedIn is the ability to schedule posts. If you batch up your posts and want to make sure that they are sent out regularly, then use the scheduling clock icon in the post window to make sure that the post is sent at the time you choose.

LinkedIn topics

So what could you write about? With the raft of layoffs across the tech industry, I have seen a lot of posts from previously laid-off employees offering advice on how to get through the practicalities of a layoff. The posts explain practical things you need to do to maintain connectivity with your co-workers (hint – back up your contacts list so you always have the details of your co-workers – ad make sure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date).

I even saw a post about one of my former colleagues talking about his struggle with his mental health after being let go, and what he had done to mitigate the feeling of not being valued. Posts like these could resonate with your connections who might be struggling too and may appreciate your insights if you have been through a similar event.

With the right tools like a mobile device camera and microphone, you can quickly become an engaging expert on LinkedIn. Sharing insights about your work, and events and engaging the audience will drive more viewers to your profile – and extend your reach.

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Fix: Critical Error Start Menu Isn’t Working on a Windows PC

Posted on January 31, 2023October 4, 2023 by Milan Stanojevic

Start Menu is one of the most valuable components of Windows 10. It allows us to access installed apps and settings quickly. However, sometimes the feature might not work as expected, and many reported a Critical Error and that the Start menu is not working.

Besides, for some, the Start Menu kept disappearing. Regarding the problem at hand, users had an error message, Critical Error – Your Start menu isn’t working. We will try to fix it the next time you sign in, appear. So, let’s find out all about it.

What causes Critical error in Start Menu?

If your Start Menu isn’t working in Windows 11, it may be followed by an error message. This can occur if the system files are corrupt or damaged. Corrupt system files can also lead to Critical Process Died BSOD error, but luckily that’s not the case here.

Remember that these errors can affect other components; many reported a critical error in Cortana on Windows. Luckily, there are ways to fix these issues, and today we’ll show you how.

Problems with Start Menu can drastically affect your user experience. Speaking of problems, users reported the following issues with their Start Menu:

Start Menu and Cortana not working: Start Menu and Cortana are closely related to Windows 10. However, many users reported that both Start Menu and Cortana aren’t working on their PC.
Start Menu won’t open in Windows 10: In some cases, your Start Menu won’t even open. This can be a big problem, but you should be able to solve it by using one of our solutions.
The Start Menu won’t go away: According to users, they can open the Start Menu but cannot close it.
Start Menu randomly opens in Windows 10: Users reported that Start Menu randomly opens on their PC. This is an annoying problem since Start Menu will interfere with other applications on your screen.
Start Menu tiles missing, icons missing – Several users reported that their tiles and icons in Start Menu are missing. This can be a problem, but you should be able to fix it with one of our solutions.

What is a critical error on a computer?

A critical error is a severe issue that affects the operations of a computer. When this error occurs, it forces the computer to stop its process and makes it impossible for the affected component to continue working.

To curtail this critical error and prevent lasting damage, a computer might start freezing or restarting.

What can I do if the Start Menu is not working?

Before trying the other solutions, here are a few quick workarounds that might work:

Restart the computer and check if you still encounter the Critical error with the Start menu.
Sign out of the affected account and then log into another account. Open the Start menu, and make sure that it works. Now, log back into the previous account, and the Start menu should also work here.

If these didn’t work, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Enter Safe Mode

Press Windows + I and select Update & Security.
Choose the Recovery option in the left pane.
Click the Restart now button under the Advanced startup section.
When your PC restarts, click Troubleshoot.
Select Advanced options.
Now, click the Startup Settings option.
Click the Restart button.
Once your computer restarts again, press F5 to access Safe Mode with Networking.

Critical Error – Start menu not working can be troublesome, but users claim this error can be fixed by entering Safe Mode. Once done, verify if the Critical Error with Start Menu in Windows 10 is fixed.

2. Uninstall Dropbox/your antivirus software

Press Windows + R to open the Run prompt, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
Locate Dropbox on the list and choose Uninstall.
After you’ve removed Dropbox, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

Many users reported Dropbox as the main culprit for Critical Error – Start menu not working error. To fix this issue, you have to remove Dropbox from your computer.

After doing so, check if the Critical Error Your start menu isn’t working in Windows Server 2016 error message disappears, in case you are using the particular version. The method would work on other iterations of the OS as well.

3. Temporary hide Cortana from Taskbar

Right-click the Taskbar, choose Cortana, and select Hidden.
Again, right-click Taskbar, hover the cursor over Cortana, and uncheck Show Cortana icon.
Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

Some users reported that Cortana is causing the Critical Error Start Menu not working issue. Hiding the icon from your Taskbar, in this case, should fix the problem.

4. Switch to a new admin account and delete the TileDataLayer directory

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, click on File, and then choose Run new task.
Type cmd, check Create this task with administrative privileges, and click the OK button.
Type the command below and press Enter: net user /add admin1 password1
This will create a new user account named admin1 with password password1.
Now, type the command below and hit Enter to provide the new account with administrative privileges: net localgroup administrators admin1 /add
Close Command Prompt, and sign out of your current account.
Now, go to the newly created admin1 account. Use the password1 you created to log in.
Press Windows + R, enter %localappdata%, and click OK.
From here, locate the TileDataLayer folder, right-click on it, and select the Delete option.
Finally, Sign out of the new admin1 account and switch back to your regular account.

If the Critical Error – Start menu not working message is showing on one user admin account, you can fix it by switching to another account and deleting the TileDataLayer directory. You can follow the steps above if you don’t have another account.

5. End Local Security Authority Process

Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
Scroll down on the Processes tab and locate the Local Security Authority Process, right-click on it and choose End task.
Once done, restart the computer.

To fix Critical Error – Start menu not working, it’s advised that you end Local Security Authority Process using Task Manager. You can now restart your PC and see if the error persists.

6. Disable Internet Explorer

Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
Click on Turn Windows features on or off in the left pane.
Uncheck the box for Internet Explorer 11, and click on OK to save the changes.
If you get a warning message, click Yes.
Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

7. Create two new administrator accounts and transfer the Database folder

Launch Command Prompt as admin, enter the commands below, and hit Enter to create two new accounts. net user /add admin1 password1 net user /add admin2 password2 net localgroup administrators admin1 /add net localgroup administrators admin2 /add
Log out of your current account, go to the admin1 account, use password1 to log in, and restart the PC.
After your computer restarts, go to the admin2 account and use password2 as the password.
Follow the path below: C:\Users\admin1\AppData\Local\TileDataLayer
If you can’t find the AppData folder, click the View tab, and check the box for Hidden items.
Copy the Database folder in TileDataLayer.
Now, go to the path below to access your main account: C:\Users\Your_username\AppData\Local\TileDataLayer
Rename the Database folder to Database.old.
Paste the new Database folder from admin1.
Restart your computer and go back to your main account.

This process requires you to create two administrator accounts, and we have to warn you that the process might seem a bit confusing at times, so try to follow the steps closely. If the issue is fixed, remove the administrator profiles you created.

If your administrator account is disabled in Windows 10, find out how you can enable it in this helpful guide.

8. Make sure Windows is up to date

Press the Windows + I keys to open the Settings app and choose Update & Security.
Click the Check for update button.
Finally, click the Install now button to update your PC.

Microsoft is aware of the Critical Error Start Menu issue, and a permanent fix might be available through Windows Update. Therefore, ensure to download all the latest updates for Windows 10.

9. Reset Windows 10

Open the Settings app and select the Update & Security option.
Choose Recovery in the left pane.
Click the Get started option under the Reset this PC section.
Choose the Keep my files option.
Now, follow the on-screen instructions, and choose the appropriate options when prompted to complete the reset process.

If you’re still getting Critical Error – Start menu not working message, you might want to consider resetting Windows 10. This is the last resort but has proven effective in solving the issue.

How do I fix the Critical Error Start Menu on Windows 11?

The Critical Error Start Menu not working on Windows 11 can be caused by faulty system files. Also, it might be due to glitches in some processes on your PC. This can be fixed easily by restarting your computer.

Since the causes of the issue are similar to that of Windows 10, you can apply the fixes in our guide to solve it.

How do I check Critical Errors in Windows 10?

Press Windows key + R to open Run, type eventvwr.msc, and hit Enter.
Click the Windows Logs folder in the left pane.
Choose any options under the folder to view the activities in the middle pane.

Critical Error – Start menu not working can be a significant problem and seriously affect your Windows 10 experience. The methods listed here would also work in the case of an HP laptop Critical Error with the Start menu.

Once you have fixed the problem, do not forget to check how to boost the PC’s performance.

If you have any other questions, feel free to drop them in the comments section below, and we’ll surely take a look.

Sony reportedly halves PlayStation VR2 sales projections, preorders made were low

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Radu Tyrsina

According to a report by Bloomberg, Sony has halved its sales projections for the PlayStation VR2 headset. This was prompted by the low preorders made which didn’t meet the company’s expectations.

As a result, Sony is reportedly reducing its forecast for launch shipments by half transitioning it from 2 million units to 1 million units. The headset price is tagged at $549 and is expected to be launched on February 22.

The price tag and compatibility are reportedly among the top causes why the preorders made were significantly low. However, Sony is reportedly expecting to ship approximately 1.5 million units across the world to customers between March and April this year.

This month, we’ve seen Microsoft’s hardware and Windows licensing business take a hit which translates to a 39% decline though the company was able to it overall revenue income by 2% year over year courtesy of the growth in its cloud business. The same can also be reiterated when it comes to smartphone shipping as it is also at an all-time low.

It will be interesting to see how Sony takes on this issue and how it progresses well after the official launch. Will PlayStation VR2 sales get better? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

Windows Is Stuck on Please Wait: How to Get Past It

Posted on January 31, 2023October 4, 2023 by Claire Moraa

Windows updates are a critical process to the running of your system, but sometimes, they can cause your PC to get stuck on the please wait screen. If something like a power surge interrupts the update process, the next time you try to start your PC may be a long wait.

Still, it could be a slow boot issue, but if you’re stuck for more than 10 minutes, there might be another problem affecting your PC. If you have come across this issue, in this article we explore various ways to get past the please wait screen.

Why is Windows stuck on the Please Wait screen?

Windows can get stuck on a please wait screen for many reasons. Below are some of the most common ones:

Unsuccessful update – You might get stuck on the please wait screen because of an unsuccessful update or a pending install.
New software issues – If you have updated any software recently, then it may be causing problems with your PC.
Malware infection – This can affect your operating system and make it so that it doesn’t respond as it should. Always ensure you have a comprehensive antivirus.
Hardware failure – This can happen if there are problems with the motherboard or other parts of your system. It’s also possible that a hardware device has been added or removed that is causing problems.
Corrupt hard drive – You may also see this message if the hard drive is corrupted and cannot boot properly through the operating system.
A damaged or missing DLL file – If Windows can’t find some DLL files required for programs to run properly, it displays this message if one is missing or damaged in certain circumstances.
App crashes – Sometimes, this can be caused by an application crashing or having trouble accessing the internet.

Other similar instances where Windows may get stuck include:

What do I do if my laptop is stuck on the please wait screen?

A few preliminary checks to try out first include:

Unplug all USB devices from your computer, including the keyboard and mouse.
Make sure that all cables are correctly connected and securely fastened into place on both ends.
Before restarting your PC, remove the network cable and plug it in once logged in. Also, check out what to do if your Ethernet cable is not working.

1. Run DISM and SFC scans in Safe Mode

Start the PC in Safe Mode.
Hit the Search icon, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
Type the following commands and press Enter after each one: dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth sfc /scannow
Now restart your PC normally.

2. Disable Network services

While your PC is still in Safe Mode, hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
Type services.msc and hit Enter to open.
Locate the Network List Service and Network Location Awareness.
For each, right-click on it and select Properties.
Navigate to the Startup type, in the drop-down menu, select Disabled then click Apply and OK.
Proceed to repeat the steps for the other service.
Once completed, restart your PC normally and see if the issue persists.

3. Perform a clean boot

While still in Safe Mode, hit the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
Type in msconfig and hit Enter.
In the System Configuration window that opens, navigate to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services option.
Click on Disable all.
Press OK, then restart your PC normally.

4. Perform a Startup Repair

Hold the Shift key down and press the Power button simultaneously.
Continue holding the Shift key, while the machine is powered on.
When the PC restarts, you’ll see a screen with a few options. Click on Troubleshoot.
Next, click on Advanced options.
In the Advanced options menu, choose Startup Repair.
Next, choose an account. You’ll need an account with Administrator privileges to continue.
After entering the password, click Continue.
Wait for the process to finish and restart your PC normally.

While these options have proven to work for some users, others may be down on their luck, and none of these solutions work. If that’s the case, it’s probably time to contact your PC’s manufacturer. They should be able to fix your laptop remotely if necessary.

Aside from Windows, the Microsoft Store update may also get stuck on pending. If you encounter the issue, don’t hesitate to check out our detailed guide on how to fix it.

Hopefully, this guide has helped get you out of the please wait screen. For any additional thoughts on this topic, feel free to comment below.

Xbox, Nintendo and Sony to skip E3 2023

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Robert Collins

E3’s “triumphant” return is apparently going to happen without all three major console makers as Xbox, Nintendo and Sony will each be skipping the event this year. What this means is that each of the “big three” will have no official presence at E3 2023, which will be the first live and in-person E3 in four years.

The news comes as a blow to the expo, which is hoping to reclaim its prominence—E3 has historically been the gaming industry’s biggest showcase event. E3 will return to the Los Angeles Convention Center this June.

Xbox recently announced that its annual summer showcase event would would also return to Los Angeles, and it is believed the Xbox Summer Showcase will happen alongside (but not part of) E3. According to Xbox head Phil Spencer,

Well, we pick our time for our showcase specifically so that we’re there. E3 is just, to me, one of the seminal moments of gaming. I love the history of going down to LA, thousands of people there, getting to see great new things…getting to see people in the industry, the fan events that we’ve had. I definitely want that to continue.

The Xbox Summer Showcase announcement came on the heels of last week’s Xbox & Bethesda Developer_Direct event. The first such showcase for Xbox, the Developer_Direct was by all accounts a smashing success, with almost universal praise of its no-fluff format.

How to Check if Firewall is Blocking a Port or a Program

Posted on January 31, 2023December 2, 2025 by Tashreef Shareef

The Windows Firewall is a built-in security application that comes with Windows OS. But many of us would want to know how to check if the firewall is blocking a port or program in Windows.

Users can configure the Windows Firewall settings as per their need to block or open ports in Windows 10 and other versions. However, at times, the Firewall may block ports or programs accidentally or due to misconfigured settings.

Why is Windows Firewall not allowing ports to access the Internet?

If this issue occurs, the port may be blocked, but luckily, there’s a way to open firewall ports in Windows, and it’s easier than you think.

Sometimes, your configuration might not be correct, causing the Windows Firewall rule to block a connection.

A few users reported that Windows Firewall is disabled, but it’s still blocking apps, and your policy settings likely cause this, so you’ll need to adjust them.

How do I check if the Firewall is blocking a port?

1. Check your Firewall Settings

The best way to check whether your Windows Firewall is blocking a port is to check your Firewall Settings. This can be done via your PC’s built-in settings in just a few clicks.

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type control and press OK to open Control Panel.
3. Click on System and Security.
4. Scroll down and open Administrative Tools.
5. In the Administrative Tools window, open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.
6. Click on Actions and select Properties.
7. Now select your preferred Profile (Domain, Private, Public).
8. In the Logging section, click on the Customize button.
9. Click on the drop-down menu for Log dropped packets: and select Yes.
10. Take note of the pfirewall.log path in the Name section.
11. Click OK to save the changes.
12. Open File Explorer and navigate the following path to access the log files:C:\WINDOWS\System32\LogFiles\Firewall
13. Click on the pfirewall.log file and check for any blocked ports. In case you can’t access the folder, you might have to change the ownership in order to access files.

2. Check for Blocked Ports using Command Prompt

Type Command Prompt in the Search bar, and then click on Run as administrator.
Now, paste the following command and then hit Enter:netsh firewall show state
This will display all the blocked and active ports configured in the firewall.

How to check if Windows Firewall is blocking a program?

Press Windows + R to open Run, type control panel, and then click OK.
Click on System and Security.
Click on Windows Defender Firewall.
From the left pane Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
In the allowed app window, scroll through all the apps.
Locate the app you want to check and see if the app is checked. If it is unchecked, the app is blocked on the Firewall.
If your program is blocked, uncheck the app and click OK.

In the Customize Settings window, click the circle(s) next to Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for public networks, private networks, or both.

That’s about it for this article on checking if the Firewall is blocking a port or a program. Make sure you follow the solutions thoroughly and see what works for you.

And if you are facing slow Internet speed, try blocking Internet access for specific apps, especially the ones that keep downloading files in the background.

For simple per app control and live connection monitoring, consider Portmaster Firewall to block unwanted traffic and keep essential apps online.

In case you’re having issues, you might want to remove duplicate Windows Firewall rules, and we have a guide to help you with that. You can adjust Windows Firewall settings in different ways, and this guide on how to open Windows Firewall helps you reach the correct menu fast.

We also have a guide on how to allow Chrome to access the network in your firewall, so don’t miss it. Learn more about SMB ports 139 and 445 to understand how network communication works and how specific ports affect file sharing on Windows.

Feel free to send us feedback in the comment section below.

Outlook Keeps Highlighting Words: 2 Best Ways to Fix That

Posted on January 31, 2023October 4, 2023 by Madalina Dinita

You might’ve noticed that Outlook is highlighting certain words in your email messages. This isn’t a big problem, but it can be slightly annoying.

We covered Outlook issues in the past, such as our recent how to keep Outlook status green guide, so be sure to check it out.

Why is Outlook highlighting words?

Joyful animations– Certain words are highlighted by default to give you a special effect when viewing emails.
Suggestions – Suggestions are designed to help you type faster and they are usually highlighted so they can be easily distinguished.

Now that you know why highlighted words appear in Outlook, let’s see how to get rid of them once and for all.

What can I do if Outlook keeps highlighting words?

1. Disable joyful animations

Open the Web version of Outlook.
Log in with your email and password.
Now click the gear icon in the top right corner.
Select View all Outlook settings at the bottom.
Now go to Mail and choose Compose and reply. In the Joyful animations section, be sure to disable Show joyful animations in the reading pane.
Now click the Save button to save changes.

2. Disable suggestions

Open the web version of Outlook.
Click the gear in the top right and choose View all Outlook settings.
Select Mail and then Compose and Reply.
Locate Quick suggestions section and choose Offer suggestions based on keywords in my messages.
Lastly, click Save to save the changes.

There you go, a quick and easy ways to disable highlighted words in Outlook. Although highlighted words can be useful and draw attention, some users don’t want to have this feature enabled.

Outlook also has its share of issues, and many reported that Outlook autofill email address is not working, but we tacked this issue in a separate guide.

Disabling highlighted words is fast and simple, and we hope that you found this guide useful. If so, feel free to let us know in the comments section below.

I2C HID Device Driver Download & Install on Windows 11

Posted on January 31, 2023October 23, 2025 by Claire Moraa

I2C HID device in a laptop is a standard interface that allows the computer to communicate with a wide range of peripherals, such as keyboards and mice. The I2C HID driver acts as a universal driver for these devices.

Once you uninstall the driver, any connected devices will stop working. However, the next time you restart your PC, the drivers will automatically be reinstalled.

Before you install the I2C HID driver, verify that you have connected the corresponding peripherals to your PC, install the latest Windows updates and ensure you have a stable internet connection.

How do I install I2C HID?

1. Use the manufacturer’s site

You can find the driver at the manufacturer’s site. The manufacturer’s website is the best place to start, as many will have detailed installation guides and instructions.

You can also find additional information on how to get started and troubleshoot problems on their support pages. If the driver is unavailable, there are also third-party websites that have legitimate drivers available for download, such as Driversol.

When downloading from untrusted sites, ensure you are well-equipped with a reliable antivirus. This will ensure you don’t end up with malware in your system.

2. Use Device Manager

Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager in the search box, and click Open.
Navigate to the Human Interfaces Devices option and click to expand.
Find the I2C HID driver, right-click on it, and select Update driver.
Next, click on Search for automatically updated drivers.
Windows will then conduct a search and either find you a new driver or tell you that the best driver is already installed.

3. Use a third-party tool

While the two above methods will still get you an updated I2C HID driver, some users may find these routes too long and high-risk. This is because many steps are involved, and you risk downloading drivers that could contain malicious code.

To avoid putting your system at risk, we recommend using a third-party driver updater. These tools have a huge database and will automatically detect missing drivers from your PC, download and install them for you in seconds.

The best part is that you don’t have to worry about figuring out which driver is best for your system.

You may also experience a touchpad error where the I2C device is not working, so feel free to visit our comprehensive article for guidance.

Let us know which method you used to install the I2C HID device driver in the comment section below.

How to Install Windows 11 Without TPM [Bypass TPM 2.0]

Posted on January 31, 2023July 25, 2024 by Milan Stanojevic

Windows 11 was recently released, and according to the official hardware requirements, to use it, you’ll need to have a TPM chip.

As a result, this requirement has already caused many problems with early adopters, and many have reported TMP 2.0 errors when trying to install Windows 11.

Many users don’t have this feature available, especially on older computers, and don’t want to upgrade to try this OS.

However, there are ways to install Windows 11 without a TPM chip, and in this article, we’re going to show you how to do so on unsupported hardware.

What does TPM do?

Firstly, TPM stands for Trusted Platform Module, and it’s a small chip on your PC. This leads us to the next question, is TPM on the motherboard or CPU?

trusted platform module description — *TPM chart (Source: Microsoft)*

Secondly, there are several versions available, and some are on your motherboard. In contrast, others are integrated into your processor, as a physical chip, or in form of code that runs in a dedicated environment.

Moreover, for practical purposes, TPM is used for file encryption, such as BitLocker, for example, bootloader protection, and it can be used to protect your passwords against hackers.

Where can I buy a TPM chip?

If you’re looking to buy a TMP 2.0 chip, you should be able to get it from most major PC hardware retailers.

We expect the demand for TPM chips to go up soon, so you might have to hurry and get your TPM chip before others.

Furthermore, remember that many processors have a TPM built-in, so be sure to check if your CPU supports this feature before buying a dedicated chip.

Before moving on to the list of ways to install Windows 11 without TPM, take a look at our guide on how to install Windows 11 without TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot step by step.

Alternatively, check out our guide on how to install Windows 11 on an unsupported CPU.

How can I install Windows 11 without TPM 2.0?

1. Create a new DWORD in the Registry

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type regedit and press Enter o open the Registry Editor.
3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup
4. Right-click anywhere in the window and expand the New menu. Select DWORD 32-bit Value or QWORD (64-bit) Value depending on which system you have.
5. Enter AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU as the name of the new value.
6. Double-click the value that you just created.
7. Set the Value data to 1 and click OK to save changes.

The first method we recommend to use to install Windows 11 without a TPM chip is to create a DWORD in the Registry Editor. This DWORD will allow you to allow upgrades with an unsupported TPM, thus fixing your issue.

NOTE

This method is approved by Microsoft, which makes it the best solution if you want to disable the TPM requirement.

2. Modify your registry from the installation media

Start the Windows 11 installation and follow the installation steps until you reach This PC can’t run Windows 11 screen.
Press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. That should open Command Prompt.
When the Command Prompt starts, type regedit.exe, and press Enter.
Navigate to the following location: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup
Right-click on Setup, expand the New section, and select Key from the list. Name the new key LabConfig.
Navigate to the LabConfig key that you just created. Right-click anywhere in the window, expand the New section, and click on DWORD (32-bit) Value or QWORD (64-bit) Value.
Create three values:
- BypassTPMCheck
- BypassRAMCheck
- BypassSecureBootCheck
Double-click the first value you created and set its Value data to 1. Now repeat the same steps for the other entries.
Once you’ve made these changes, exit the Registry Editor, and the installation should continue without problems.

3. Use Rufus

Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s website.
Download Rufus and run it.
Select your USB flash drive and click the Select button.
Choose the Windows 11 ISO file that you just created.
Now click on Start and wait for the process to finish.
Make sure you check Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. Click OK and wait for the process to finish.

By completing the above procedure, you’ll have a Windows 11 ISO ready that won’t check for TPM during the installation.

What do I do if the PC Health Check app is bugged?

If the PC Health Check App is crashing, there might be an issue with the installation. You should be able to fix that by starting the installation again.

Alternatively, you can wait for Microsoft to release the updated version of the software. If this app isn’t working, you won’t be able to install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC.

What motherboards are Windows 11 ready?

Most newer motherboards support TPM, so if you’re looking for one having this feature, you should consider these gaming motherboards.

Moreover, it’s not mandatory to use a gaming motherboard, but since these are high-end models, they have all the latest features.

However, if you don’t want to buy a gaming motherboard, most newer motherboards have support for TPM, so feel free to pick any model that works for you.

Why should I use TPM?

Windows TPM provides a layer of hardware security to your device, and it can help you protect your login credentials from hackers.

This feature is also used for file encryption, so if you want to ensure that your files are safe from unauthorized access, you need to use it.

As you can see, it’s possible to install Windows 11 without TPM, but it might require that you modify the registry or modify the ISO file.

Furthermore, if you still plan to disable this feature, we recommend using the method approved by Microsoft since it will cause the least problems to your PC.

However, if you wish to buy a TPM 2.0 chip, look at our post on where to buy them and price comparisons.

Alternatively, check out the five best Windows 11 business laptops that won’t need to skip the TPM verification.

To learn more, we have an in-depth guide on TPM in Windows 11, so don’t miss it.

Have you found a different way to install Windows 11 on an unsupported device, or did you decide to buy a TMP 2.0 chip? Let us know in the comments below.

5 Best Planner Design Software for Digital Printables & Pages

Posted on January 31, 2023October 4, 2023 by Matthew Adams

Planner pages are documents for personal planning. They’re documents on which you can note down tasks or appointments for reminders and scheduling.

Planner pages can take the form of daily (single-day) or weekly planners. To set up planner pages, you’ll need software with good shape, document layout, and font tools.

Desktop publishing and design applications are very suitable for planner pages. However, you can also set up planners with spreadsheets and presentation software.

How do I make my own planner pages?

Nowadays, there are a lot of tools to create planner pages. However, there are a few preliminary steps on how to make a planner from scratch:

Make a plan about the contents – First, you should write down what information the planner should contain. Do you need goals, deadlines, habits, or reminders? Is it a to-do list?
Create a sketch of your planner – You can try to doodle a planner on an old piece of paper and structure the planner according to your contents.
Find other examples – You may draw inspiration from websites like Pinterest or Etsy to see what others have done or look at the templates you will find within the software presented below.
Use a planner design software – You will find that many of the tools below will help you design the perfect planner from start to finish, while others will provide the tools to help your knowledge.

What program should I use to design a planner? Well, below, you will find the best tools to design your own planner pages.

What is the best program to design a planner?

Adobe Photoshop Elements – Great for professionals

Adobe Photoshop Elements is a design and image-editing application. Photoshop’s fantastic image-editing tools aren’t so essential for planner pages.

However, this software also packs strong design and page layout tools that are very handy for planner page documents.

You can add both square and rounded corner rectangles to canvases with Photoshop’s shape tools. Alternatively, you can utilize Photoshop’s Custom Shape Tool or Elipse Tool if you need to add some circular shapes to your page planners.

Many users prefer using Photoshop for planner pages because of its alignment tools.

Photoshop’s Layers panel and alignment and distribution settings make it easy to align shapes. Photoshop includes six alignment options, and users can space layer contents out equally with its distribution settings.

Furthermore, Photoshop also packs in numerous types of tools for planning pages. It includes myriad font types for users to choose from.

Photoshop users can also further format typesets with bold, italic, underline, anti-aliasing, text orientation, warp, and underline options.

Other useful Adobe Photoshop Elements features

Stack multiple colors and patterns with the clipping masks feature
Includes graphics and frames to add to planner pages
Add photo text
Add inspirational quotes to your planners with Photoshop’s Quote Graphics

Adobe Photoshop Elements

Create astonishing planner pages with this powerful and versatile software that offers a wide range of customization options.

Free trialVisit website

Adobe InDesign – Great for designing an original planner

Adobe InDesign is the foremost desktop publishing application for Windows.

It’s ideal for setting up a wide range of publication types, such as newspapers, brochures, posters, presentations, ebooks, etc.

Therefore, this application has advanced page layout tools few others can match.

InDesign’s frames and tables are invaluable for designing planner pages. You can add both graphics and text frames to documents with InDesign’s text and drawing utilities to establish layouts for planner pages.

Alternatively, you can set up page planners with formatted tables in InDesign.

Adobe InDesign’s Align panel incorporates tools for neatly aligning and distributing shapes in planner pages.

With those options, you can align objects vertically and horizontally. The Align panel also includes a Use spacing setting that you can set space between objects with.

Other useful Adobe InDesign features:

InDesign users can import clip art decorations for their planner pages from Adobe Stock
Its subject-aware text wrapping automatically detects objects
Users can add OpenType SVG emoji fonts to their InDesign documents
Enables users to add animations, forms, buttons, and other interactive elements to documents

Adobe InDesign

Using this tool you’ll be able to create planner pages with ease that look professional.

Free trialVisit website

Canva – Best free planner editor

Canva is the best freely available web app for creating planner pages, and many other elements with different formats.

This is a very intuitive and straightforward to utilize web app with which you can set up brochures, posters, planner pages, presentations, logos, reports, cards, and invitation designs, among others.

The great thing about Canva is its immensely diverse selection of shapes and text styles. Its users can add a huge variety of different rectangle and square styles to their planner pages.

Canva also includes a multitude of visually appealing font combinations for users to add to their page designs.

Another good thing about Canva is that it includes a wide selection of planners on its Template page. Its users can select day, week, or month planners from the Template section of Canva. So, Canva users don’t need to set up planners manually.

Other useful Canva features

Canva’s Effects button enables users to apply shadow, lift, splice, curve, neon, and echo effects to text
Includes millions of themed images for users to add to pages
Its Background tool provides a huge selection of background presets for pages
Users can also add Canva animations to pages

Canva

It has never been easier to create professional-looking planner pages than using this great online tool.

FreeVisit website

Microsoft Excel – Great for automatic calculations

Microsoft Excel is the foremost spreadsheet application in the software industry.

Although it’s not desktop publishing software, this is one of the best applications for setting up visually appealing tables. Excel is ideal for users who prefer to set up planner pages in table format.

Excel users don’t need to add any shapes to pages as the application’s sheets consist of cell squares that can form the basis of planner tables.

However, Excel does include a good variety of rectangles and basic shapes users can still incorporate within their page planners.

MS Excel incorporates plenty of formatting options for cells. Its users can configure a wide range of numbers, alignment, font, border, and fill options for cells to set up visually appealing planner tables.

This application also has a cell-style feature that provides cell themes for users to choose from.

Other useful Excel features

It incorporates an expansive graphing utility with which you can add a wide range of charts
Users can download a wide variety of Excel planner templates from the Office website
Excel enables users to apply conditional formatting to cells
Includes a comment feature with which users can add notes to sheet cells in Excel

Microsoft Excel

Try out Microsoft Excel and create efficient planner pages within a short amount of time.

Free trialVisit website

Microsoft PowerPoint – Vast collection of stock images and stickers

PowerPoint, which is a part of the MS Office suite, is one of the best presentation applications for slideshows.

This amazingly versatile application incorporates all the tools you’ll need to set up planner pages. It’s especially good for users who want to set up digital planners with hyperlinks.

You can set up a visually appealing planner page on a single blank slide in PowerPoint. This software includes a similar selection of rectangles, and other shapes, to Excel.

You can add tables to planners with PP’s table tool. PowerPoint’s selection of alternative text box styles is also a handy feature.

However, PowerPoint users aren’t restricted to just making single page planners.

You can utilize that application to set up interactive PDF digital planners, with multiple pages, that mimic paper planner books for scheduling. Then you can import a digital planner PDFs into a note-taking app.

Other useful PowerPoint features

It incorporates a big collection of stock images and stickers
PowerPoint users can add comment notes to pages
Includes basic draw tools
SmartArt enables PowerPoint users to convert text data into diagram form

Microsoft PowerPoint

Create great planner pages with this visual software and ensure productivity.

Free trialVisit website

Those are five of the best applications to create planner pages with. These software options include great shape, text, table, and formatting tools to set up a wide variety of personal or business planner pages.

So, what program should I use to design a planner, you ask? It depends on your individual needs and expectations, of course.

If you know about other useful tools, feel free to let us know about them in the comments section below.

Is Vivaldi Not Syncing: 5 Confirmed Ways to Fix the Issue

Posted on January 31, 2023October 4, 2023 by Vlad Turiceanu

Vivaldi is a browser with a lot of unique features and performance. It works on Chromium, a web browser project employed by several other browsers. Often, users complain about Vivaldi not syncing data on their devices.

Like every other browser, Vivaldi is a work in progress with its downside and a fair share of issues, including Vivaldi not loading web pages. But problems with it are usually rare and easy to fix. So, let’s find out all about the problem at hand.

Why is Vivaldi not syncing?

Here are a few reasons you might be encountering the problem:

Outdated browser version: The problem was previously reported on a few versions of the browser, so make sure you are not running an outdated version.
Problems with the server: In some cases, you might face issues when the servers are down, though that’s a rare occurrence.
Password is not as per the guidelines: Some users reported that Vivaldi was not syncing since their passwords did not conform to the updated guidelines.
Misconfigured sync settings: If the Vivaldi settings are misconfigured, it will lower the browser’s performance and trigger issues when syncing tabs and other data.

Does Vivaldi sync across devices?

One of the pros of Vivaldi is the Sync feature. It allows you to synchronize your Vivaldi account information and data across your devices.

For example, Vivaldi syncs bookmarks for you to access them on another computer with your account. Also, Vivaldi syncs tabs, passwords, and notes across your devices.

What can I do if Vivaldi is not syncing?

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

Log out and then re-login to your Vivaldi account.
Make sure your account password is as per the guidelines set by Vivaldi. If not, update the password and then re-login to all the devices.
Verify whether you are using the same username on all devices. Even the incorrect capitalization of alphabets can trigger problems and lead to Vivaldi not syncing. So check that and make the necessary corrections, if required.
If you are running Vivaldi Snapshot, switch to the stable version of Vivaldi, and the sync issues should be resolved.

In case nothing worked, head to the solutions listed next.

1. Update Vivaldi

Launch Vivaldi, click on the Menu icon, hover the cursor over Help, and then choose Check for Updates from the flyout menu.
If an update is available, download and install it.

2. Make sure the sync settings are in order

In the Vivaldi browser, click on the Cloud icon near the bottom-left.
Now, head to the Sync Selected Data tab.
Make sure everything you want to sync is checked here, and then click on Start Syncing.

Once done, check Vivaldi is now syncing the data that it could not do earlier. In case the problem persists, head to the next solution.

3. Reset remote data

Open the browser, and then click on the Cloud icon.
Click on the Reset Remote Data button.
Finally, click on Delete Sync Data to confirm the change.

Oftentimes, issues with the remote data can lead to Vivaldi not syncing, and a quick fix is to delete it. You may have to do it a couple of times over days, as reported by some users.

Remember, this only deletes information from the Vivaldi server, and that stored locally remains unaffected.

4. Delete the user data folder

Open Vivaldi, click on the menu icon near the top-left, hover the cursor over Help, and select About.
Now, make a note of the address listed next to Profile Path.
Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, and navigate the path found earlier until you get to the Vivaldi folder.
Now, close the browser and then move the User Data folder to another location.
Once done, relaunch the browser, and it will automatically recreate the required data.

That’s it! In most cases, you should be able to get things up and running when Vivaldi is not syncing by recreating the user data when it’s corrupt.

5. Manually sync Vivaldi

Paste the following path in Vivaldi’s address bar on the computer from which you want to sync the data and hit Enter:vivaldi://about
Now, copy the Profile Path listed here.
Open the File Explorer, and locate the Default folder using the earlier path.
Close the browser (terminate all its processes), and copy the Default folder to a USB drive.
Now, plug in the USB drive to another computer where you want the data to be synced, and paste the files in the same location. Make sure the browser is closed while this is done.
Finally, launch the browser on the current computer, and it should show the synced data.

That’s it! If nothing previously worked, manually syncing data between the two devices should do the trick when automatic syncing is not working on Vivaldi. Also, find the best ways to lower Vivaldi’s CPU usage for optimal PC performance.

If you still encounter the problem, switch to a more reliable browser. Check our list of the best browsers for PC and choose the one that best suits your requirements.

Tell us which fix worked and share any queries you may have in the comments section below.

8 Best Apps for Cryptocurrency Live Prices [Windows & Mac]

Posted on January 31, 2023October 6, 2025 by Radu Tyrsina

It is essential for cryptocurrency traders to always be on top of their game. It isn’t exactly a secret that cryptocurrencies, even big names like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, can be extremely volatile. So, it is essential to have cryptocurrency price apps.

These applications will provide you live feed of the cryptocurrency you have invested in. This way, you can see if there are any sudden changes in the market and act accordingly. So, we tried to list the best applications for Windows.

Remember, these applications are specifically designed for you to check out the pricing of your crypto coins. Wallets or mining applications are not included in this list.

What are the best cryptocurrency price tracker apps for PC?

eToro – The best app out there

eToro is considered one of the pioneers in cryptocurrency trading, with over 20 million crypto transactions traded so far.

They offer the largest range of cryptos anywhere, from the best-known ones, such as Bitcoin or Ripple, to the least known – Cardano, NEO, or Stellar.

For beginners, eToro is the best place to start trading cryptocurrency. As you get more familiar with the platform, you can build a portfolio with all available cryptocurrencies.

You can start from scratch, with a fully functional demo account, to find your strategy before trading independently or copying other traders.

Once you’re on the platform, you get instant access to all the trade markets in the platform and all the ongoing crypto transactions. Everything is in real-time by default.

You have various filters that you can use to break the crypto charts as you wish and thus get the best overview of the market.

eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs, only real Cryptocurrencies are available for US users.

eToro

Start your crypto trading actions with this outstanding trading platform for beginners.

Free trial Visit website

Disclaimer: This ad promotes virtual cryptocurrency investing within the EU (by eToro Europe Ltd. and eToro UK Ltd.) & USA (by eToro USA LLC).
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

ZuluTrade – Includes other investment options

ZuluTrade is a trading platform that provides trading for stocks, forex, binary options, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.

In terms of cryptocurrencies, ZuluTrade offers you the opportunity to AutoTrade the most sought-after currencies of the market: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, or Litecoin.

The ZuluTrade app is compatible with Windows, Android, and iOS and offers some great features such as:

Calendar – for all key events for the financial markets around the globe
Live Rate Charts with technical indicators
ZuluScript – create scripts that form the parameters for trading bots; it gives you trade automation, allowing you to execute far more trades than you ever could manually.
Margin Call-o-Meter – estimates the chance your account will run out of money.
ZuluGuard – a unique feature that protects Copy Traders if erratic trades are opened by traders they are following.
Automator – notifies you by email or automatically executes actions when events occur; a tool to minimize risk and free up time.
Over 100.000 strategies and systems to follow and copy automatically without having to monitor the market 24/7.
Portfolio Simulator.

With the mentioned application, you can view your performance, review new traders to copy, plus close trades manually. You have a real-time option to activate to manage your risk settings and see the live evolution of the market.

It’s recommended to practice with a ZuluTrade demo account first. This will give you an idea of how other experienced signal providers trade and communicate with their followers.

ZuluTrade

Use the ZuluTrade app to access the live trading evolution of the most sought-for cryptocurrencies on the market.

Try free Visit website

TradingView – Intuitive user interface

TradingView is a freemium social network for traders and investors in Forex, Futures, and Cryptocurrency markets. This cryptocurrency price app offers Live quotes, stock web-based charts, and expert trading ideas.

It is best appreciated for the ease of use of its charts, having a modern, sleek and practical interface, with many functionalities in one charting package.

The cryptocurrency market has its own separate tables. On TradingView, you can get one of the best overviews for prices and traded volumes for more than 200 cryptocurrency assets, plus combine the data with a lot of technical indicators.

besides the web app, you can also get the mobile app from App Store or Google Play for 24/7 access to the world of finance. Multiple channels ensure secure and reliable data streaming.

TradingView comes in four plans. The free one offers most features you would get with the paid plans, only at a slower data flow and with fewer indicators available. Yet the free plan is great to start with.

Moving upwards with the paid plans – Pro, Pro+ or Premium, one gets access to an increasing number of charts, faster workflow, and certain exclusive features.

TradingView

Learn the ropes of cryptocurrency trading and discuss trade ideas and strategies with the TradeView app

Try free Visit website

Binance – One of the biggest players

Binance is a cryptocurrency trading platform with some of the most competitive rates available. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader wanting to trade cryptocurrency, this is undoubtedly the simplest and most cost-effective path to take.

Binance Coin is one of the few cryptocurrencies that has reached its high since 2017. During that year, there was a bull market, and the prices of all cryptocurrencies soared along with it, reaching a peak before holding steady and declining in value.

Trading on Binance is quite simple and user-friendly. In addition to the Bitcoin, Ether, BNB, XRP, and Tether trading pairings, there is an incredible cryptocurrency selection accessible for trading.

If you are a less experienced trader, you can use the basic rapid trade option, which allows you to easily convert coins at the market rate without needing charts or order books. Margin trading is provided for some trading pairs, allowing you to trade with up to 10 times leverage on particular coins.

Binance is fairly secure in terms of security. However, you may enhance privacy and keep your Binance account more secure by using additional security measures. When it comes to privacy concerns, an appropriate VPN is the easiest approach to maintain vigilant protection whenever you trade.

One of the most recent changes is that you may now purchase cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum with a credit card. The cryptocurrency exchange has partnered with a third party to allow you to make credit card purchases directly on the platform.

Binance

Binance’s Trade allows you to exchange fiat currency for coins, and purchase up to 31 different currencies using a credit or debit card.

Check price Visit Website

Crypto Chart – Compatible with multiple devices

The great thing about the Crypto Chart application is that it is incredibly versatile, making it one of the best cryptocurrency price apps.

It is available not only for PC but also for mobile devices, HoloLens, and even Xbox One. Furthermore, you have a feed with numerous cryptocurrencies.

If you don’t like being overloaded with information, then you can choose to streamline your feed. In other words, you can choose to track only specific coins.

You can also move the coin cards around to your preference. Especially important cryptocurrencies can be moved to the live tile for easier access. There are also many different ways you can keep up with important alerts and news!

This application is great for those who are not intimidated by being overloaded with information. You have over 1 thousand different cryptocurrencies on this application that you can keep track of. Therefore, you will most likely find the coin you invested in.

The disadvantages? Well, some people complain that there aren’t enough decimal points. This can be important for massive cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

⇒ Get Crypto Chart

CryptoTracker – Best for thorough analysis

This application is unique because it is capable of showing the whole story. You can find charts of the major cryptocurrencies such as Ripple, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, and find information about them for the last hour, day, week, month, year, or from the moment they started!

Knowing the history of these cryptocurrencies in graph form can help with your investments.

CryptoTracker supports USD, CAD, EUR, MXN, and CNY. The interface is also aesthetically pleasing. You can choose between a dark theme or a light theme.

I recommend this application for the veterans of cryptocurrency miners/investors. If you’ve been in this business for a long time, then you will appreciate the features offered by CryptoTracker.

⇒ Get CryptoTracker

Mammon – Supports a wide of cryptocurrencies

This cryptocurrency price tracker app for Windows has a lot going for it. You have so many features to work with.

For example, you can view the prices of over 700+ cryptocurrencies You also have a search function that you can use to find the coin you are looking for quickly. Once you find it, you can highlight or favorite it and easily access it later.

In addition, you are given a portfolio where you can keep track of all the cryptocurrencies you have invested in one place. This is a good way to keep track of how much you have earned or lost with each coin.

On top of that, there is a news section where you can keep up with all the latest crypto coin-related news.

There is also a feature that allows you to set notifications and reminders. Users find this function especially useful as they will be immediately notified if a currency has reached a certain target.

Finally, you can see the prices in over 30 different currencies! You can choose between the dollar, Euro, Pound, and many more.

Mammon is quite a powerful cryptocurrency price tracker app. Serious investors will certainly enjoy using it. However, it isn’t ideal for people who are looking for something lightweight.

⇒ Get Mammon

Crypto Price Widget – For easy accessibility

As the name suggests, Crypto Price Widget is a widget you can download for both your Windows PC and Mac!

It supports over 20 currencies, visualizes your crypto portfolio, and claims to update prices every 5 seconds, making it one of the most reliable cryptocurrency price apps.

However, the most unique thing about this widget is that it is open source. If you have the know-how, you can modify and even enhance the widget.

Furthermore, there is a pro version of the widget coming soon, with even more features!

Bottom line? Well, Crypto Price Widget is a fantastic application for people who like to modify things. Even if you can’t make use of the open-source function, the widget is still very useful and convenient.

⇒ Get Crypto Price Widget

The race for a piece of the cryptocurrency pie is still hot as ever. Stay ahead of the game with these best cryptocurrency price apps for your device.

For those new to crypto, find the best VPNs for trading to have a seamless experience.

Have you tried one already? Tell us your opinion in the comments section below.

WiFi Adapter Not Showing in Device Manager (Windows 10/11 Fix)

Posted on January 31, 2023July 28, 2025 by Ivan Jenic

Is your WiFi adapter not showing in Device Manager? This issue can block your PC from detecting wireless networks entirely. Here’s how to fix it quickly.

How to fix Wi-Fi adapter not showing in Windows
Wrapping up
FAQs

Why the WiFi Adapter Goes Missing

When your WiFi adapter is missing from Device Manager, it’s usually caused by:

Disabled BIOS or UEFI wireless settings
Corrupted or outdated network drivers
Windows update conflicts
Faulty hardware or a loose internal connection

Let’s fix it step-by-step.

How to fix Wi-Fi adapter not showing in Windows

NOTE

If the Wi-Fi adapter is not working, you will have to find an external Wi-Fi adapter temporarily or connect to a wired network.

1. Use the Internet Connections troubleshooter

When you’re encountering issues with your Wi-Fi adapter on your PC, a reliable option is the Internet Connections troubleshooter to identify and eliminate the source of the problem.

1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings, then head to Updates & Security.
2. Select Troubleshoot from the left pane and click on Additional troubleshooters.
3. Select Internet Connections and click the Run the troubleshooter button.
di4. Follow further on-screen instructions and let the process finish.
5. Restart your computer.

A problematic Wi-Fi adapter may also cause the Suspect ARP Probe Failed error. Read the highlighted guide for more information.

2. Update the network drivers (Internet needed)

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Click on the Network adapters section, locate the Wi-Fi adapter, right-click on it, and select Update driver.
Now select Search automatically for drivers.
If the system finds a new driver, it will be installed, and you will be prompted for a restart.

Updating the driver will work only if you have an Ethernet cable connection besides your Wi-Fi. If unavailable, download the necessary drivers on another computer or device and run the setup on the affected PC.

3. Reset the network adapters

NOTE

Resetting the network adapter can be very effective, but remember that this procedure will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth connections. So note down the passwords beforehand.

Right-click on the Start button and choose Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Type or paste the following lines into Windows Powershell and press Enter after each one:
netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew

Once done, restart the computer and verify whether the Wi-Fi adapter is still not working

4. Perform a registry tweak with Command Prompt

Type Command Prompt in the search bar and click on Run as administrator.
Paste the following line and press Enter: netcfg –s n
This command will show a list of network protocols, drivers, and services. First, check if DNI_DNE is on the list; if it is, you have a problem.
If DNI_DNE is listed, type the following commands and press Enter:
reg delete HKCR\CLSID{988248f3-a1ad-49bf-9170-676cbbc36ba3} /f netcfg -v -u dni_dne

This should solve the issue, but if you receive the error 0x80004002 after entering the command, this value needs to be deleted slightly differently.

Here’s what to do if you receive this error code:

First, go to Search, type regedit, and open the Registry Editor.
Navigate to the following path: Computer\HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{988248f3-a1ad-49bf-9170-676cbbc36ba3}
Delete DNI_DNE if it still exists.

5. Change the adapter settings

Click on the Start button, type control panel, and then click on the relevant search result.
Go to the top right corner and change the View by option to Large icons.
Select Network and Sharing Center.
Click on Change adapter settings.
Right-click the wireless adapter and select Properties.
Search for Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6), and uncheck the option to disable it.
Click on OK and restart the computer to enforce the changes you made.

6. Reinstall the network adapter

Right-click the Start button and choose Device Manager from the list.
Click on the Network adapters section to expand it.
Right-click your network adapter and select Uninstall device.
Follow further on-screen instructions.
Restart your computer, and Windows will automatically install the best available drivers for the device.

7. Reset your router

NOTE

After you reset the router, you must reconfigure it. Therefore, before resetting it, take notes of the present configuration.

Look for the Reset button at the back of the device.
Press and hold it for over 10 seconds until the SYS led starts flashing quickly, and release the button.

Resetting the router can do wonders, as cliche as it sounds. Though the steps to reset the router are different for each manufacturer, every router usually has a reset button. So, find the instructions for your manufacturer and finish the process.

8. Update the router firmware

NOTE

Router updates can be dangerous if not performed correctly, so always check your instruction manual for detailed instructions.

Use an Ethernet cable to connect the router to your PC.
Visit your router’s manufacturer’s website.
Locate your model on the list.
Download the latest firmware version for your model.
Open your web browser and type the IP address or the router’s link (as an example, our router’s IP address is 192.168.0.1, but yours may be different).
Now enter the username and password provided by the manufacturer (available in the manual or on the bottom of the device) or the ones you set.
Navigate to the Firmware section and find the Choose file or Browse button to let you add the firmware you’ve downloaded.
Wait for the process to finish, and do not interrupt it at any cost.

For more information, we suggest that you visit our guide on how to update your router firmware guide and avoid this and other like errors such as error code 10.

9. Switch to the Maximum Performance mode

Press Windows key + S and enter power plan. Now click on Choose a power plan.
Once the Power Options window opens, locate your current plan and click Change plan settings.
Go to Change advanced power settings.
Expand Wireless Adapter Settings, and set the Power Saving Mode to Maximum Performance.
Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

Just keep in mind that the Maximum Performance mode will put some extra pressure on your device, so your laptop battery may drain more quicker. But, it should, in all likelihood, fix the problem with the Wi-Fi adapter.

Wrapping up

Once you have managed to fix things, find out how to boost the performance of a Windows PC for a better experience.

Many also reported that Ethernet works but not WiFi, so you might want to check our dedicated guide on that issue for more solutions.

We also have a guide explaining what to do if no WiFi networks are found, as well as a guide on There might be a problem with the driver for the WiFi adapter error, so don’t miss them.

Many also reported Network cable is not properly plugged or may be broken message, but we covered this issue in another guide.

You might also want to check out this guide on the “Wi-Fi action needed” error in Windows 10, especially if your connection seems active but won’t actually load anything.

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

FAQs

Why is my WiFi adapter not showing in Device Manager?

This usually happens due to hidden devices, BIOS-level deactivation, corrupt drivers, or physical hardware issues.

Can I disable the WiFi adapter in Windows by mistake?

Yes. It can be disabled from BIOS, Device Manager, or via command line. Re-enable it to restore network functionality.

How to check the WiFi adapter in Windows 10 or 11?

Use Device Manager, or run this in Command Prompt:
netsh wlan show interface.

Music Slow Down Software: 10 Best to Use in 2026

Posted on January 31, 2023January 8, 2024 by Milan Stanojevic

Being able to slow down music without necessarily impacting the pitch using software is quite a helpful thing, especially when you want to hear a certain riff within a song.

Some media players like Windows Media Player and VLC Player have this option, but other reliable software to slow down MP3 exists in the market.

If you want to transcribe a song or play it yourself, you can use these tools, though they don’t do the transcribing for you. However, their player programs are specially optimized for slowing down music for transcription and play-along practice.

Which are the best software tools to slow down music?

Adobe Premiere Pro – Simply the best

Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the best video editing software, with unmatched capabilities. You can use this versatile tool to edit film and TV videos or simply the videos you’re going to upload on your YouTube channel.

One of the best parts is editing your videos on any device. If you get struck by a brilliant idea, you can grab the device that’s nearest to you and get the job done fast.

Audio and music are key elements to consider if you want to mesmerize your audience. Thanks to Premiere Pro, you’ve got an all-in-one video and audio editor.

If you want to slow down music, you can use the Speed/Duration command. This feature allows you to manipulate the rate at which a video or audio is playing to speed it up or down.

Another useful feature is the Time Remapping tool. You can use it to create slow-motion or fast-motion effects, which will, of course, also affect the audio. Try it out for yourself.

Adobe Premiere Pro

Slow down your music or video with the industry-leading software from Adobe.

Check price Visit Website

Adobe Audition – The ultimate choice

Adobe Audition is the ultimate audio editing software for Windows and Mac computers. If you want to slow down music or audio, this tool won’t ever let you down.

Thanks to its intuitive built-in features, you can quickly manipulate audio without causing any audio distortion issues or audio quality loss.

To slow down a section of a song or audio track in Adobe Audition, go to Effects >Time & Pitch > Stretch and Pitch. You can use the Stretch slider to manipulate the audio to play up to 8x slower than normal.

Alternatively, you can use the Pitch Bender to mark the slowdown on the screen using keyframes. In other words, you can simply draw the curve and duration of the slowdown on the waveform.

In addition, this industry-leading audio software can provide great help to enhance the quality of your tracks and transform them into qualitative music.

That being said, you can add various effects to highlight certain song sections and enjoy the powerful tools that Audition has to offer.

Adobe Audition

Slow down and manipulate music without causing any distortion issues or quality loss.

Check price Visit Website

WavePad – Work like a pro

WavePad is a great audio slowdown solution if you have many song files piled up. It’s a fully-featured professional audio editor for both Windows and Mac.

You’ll most likely appreciate WavePad is equipped with a rich set of editing tools, including the usual cut, copy, paste, delete, insert, as well as silence, compression, pitch shifting, auto-trim, and more.

What’s best about this software is its straightforward interface that’s surprisingly easy to navigate. You can load your audio file in just two clicks, slow down the speed or further edit it as you please.

Other notable features include creating ringtones from your favorite music files or recordings, restoring audio files by removing noise, or reducing vocals from music tracks.

You may even create bookmarks and regions to easily find and assemble segments of long audio files with minimal effort.

Therefore, this particular audio tool will help you to amplify or normalize your tracks immediately, transforming raw tracks into musical treasures.

WavePad

Need an inclusive tool to slow down your music? Try WavePad to do that and so much more!

Free Trial Visit Website

Transcribe! – User-friendly interface

Transcribe! helps people who want to work out a piece of music from a recording so as to transcribe it or play it themselves.

It doesn’t transcribe in the actual sense but is optimized for transcription, with features not found on conventional music media players.

It can also be used for play-along practice as you can change the pitch and speed, plus store and recall loops to practice all keys, plus you can slow down or speed up. ‘

Conventional media players are for those who want to listen to full tracks, so they’re inconvenient for transcribing, and this isn’t their original purpose.

Transcribe can also display videos if you’re working from video files. It doesn’t, however, take any interest in MIDI files as they have explicit info on the notes to be played.

It can apply audio effects like speed or pitch change and EQ, plus you can save the modified audio under a new sound file if you so wish. It is available in Windows and other operating systems.

Other features include mono/karaoke effect, EQ filter, fine-tuning, and transposition for those who play transposing instruments, and speed variable from one-twentieth to double speed.

Transcribe!

With this software, you can edit soundtracks exactly as you desire. Get Transcribe! to master your own music creations.

Check price Visit website

Audacity – An open-source option

Audacity is a free and easy-to-use,multi-track audio editor and recorder that works with different operating systems, including Windows, with a multi-lingual interface.

It was developed by some volunteers and distributed under the GNU General Public License, so it is an open-source software as its code is free for all to study or use.

There are other such programs available, but for slowing down music, Audacity tops the rest.

Features include live audio and computer playback recording, converting tapes and records into digital CDs or recordings, editing various sound file formats, cut/copy/splice or mix sounds.

Furthermore, this open-source software can offer multiple useful features to scale up your audio tracks, applying effects to improve music accuracy.

All in all, if you need a friendly UI and a large number of sound editing options, this audio software will be the perfect helping hand.

⇒ Get Audacity

Amazing Slow Downer – Supports a wide range of formats

Amazing Slow Downer is another great audio slowdown software you might want to try. The app comes with an incredibly simple and friendly user interface that allows you to slow down any song with ease.

First, such a program can help every musician who needs to study a melody by slowing down the music and listening to a certain section. Hence, using this program, you can do exactly that.

So with this intuitive-to-use platform, you can possess the tools to change the speed of your track and get inspired by that piece of work in real time.

More so, you can slow down any song you prefer by not changing its quality and pitch, thus, you can listen clearly to specific compositions that inspire you to create original music.

It is also possible to play your tracks from a CD, MP3, WAV, AIFF, MP4, WMA, or other formats. Plus, you should benefit from features like speed up to twice the normal rate, and pitch adjustments in semi-tones or loop settings.

In conclusion, you don’t have to worry anymore about music quality and use this practical software to completely understand your music.

Regarding the features, here’s what Amazing Slow Downer offers:

Slow down songs to 20% of their original speed without affecting the pitch
High-quality sound
Supports popular audio formats, including DRM-protected AAC and WMA files
Works with audio CDs
Real-time adjustments
Loop parts of the song without changing the pitch
Volume control
7-band equalizer
Works with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

⇒ Get Amazing Slow Downer

Slow MP3 – A lightweight option

Slow MP3 is one of the best software products to slow down music. It lets you play your favorite tracks at a slower tempo to view the used chords. You need Java to be able to run it.

The application gives you a chance to explore a few rhythms when playing music. At the same time, you can learn the chords used by the artist.

It is so light, with about 1MB of your space, and uses limited system resources, so it will run regardless of your computer’s configuration.

Once the main window is displayed, you can access all its features.

Playback buttons are visible, while volume sliders are available to adjust output decibels, and there’s a keyboard that highlights keys based on a sound.

The limiting features of this tool keep it from being a pro software, as loading can only be done via the file menu, and there are no drag-and-drop features.

Also, you can only load one song at a go, as there’s no playlist to gain quick access to more audio files.

However, one of its best features is the possibility to slow down playback speed which is great because turning on the transcribe option highlights notes so you can see the chords that were used.

You can also use a slider to transpose the playing audio file, but you can only enjoy its features while the song is loaded, as there’s no function for exporting the song with the minor edits made.

⇒ Get Slow MP3

Anytune – Only for Apple devices

Anytune is another popular tool for slowing down music that also helps you choose the perfect pitch and learn to play by ear, though the Windows version is yet to be released.

You can isolate or mute instruments or vocals, learn tricky solos, transcribe, practice tunes at slower tempos as its performance and audio quality are outstanding, and rm if you like.

It slows down your music without changing the pitch while retaining amazing audio fidelity, so you can pick out each note to learn or play along with your favorite music.

You can tune your instrument or voice, and adjust the pitch up or down by two octaves, then fine-tune by cents to match odd tuning or transcribe in a different key.

It also lets you play your music seamlessly from iTunes, import from Dropbox, and drag and drop songs, with playback and export audio from video files.

Anytune also lets you create marks for quick navigation or set reminders for upcoming projects, save multiple loops, create and share timed comments, and pinpoint your instrument.

Ultimately, you’ll feel as if you’re playing with the band using the Anytune Pro+ in combination with an adapter and practicing in LiveMix of your song and instrument or voice at your own pace and pitch.

⇒ Get Anytune

SlowGold – Feature loaded

Slow Gold is an intuitive tool to help musicians improve their skills. If you practice backing tracks, you can slow those tracks down or speed them up as you need, or even transpose them.

If you’re learning to play solos from recordings, you can focus on them a few notes at a time. Or if you’re trying to figure out the chords to a hit tune for your cover band, SlowGold has you covered.

The program can open any audio file in the common formats of .mp3, .aiff, .wav, .flac, and others, so you can basically use it with any music (or speech or another audio file) that you have.

You slice up the tune into manageable segments by inserting what the program calls Loop Points. Label Loop Points with useful text to make it easy to remember where you were the next time you open it.

Important for me is the ability to fine-tune the playback pitch, which makes it easy to work with older music. Also, the ability to easily adjust loops, so they are an exact number of beats long.

Every setting and Loop Point is automatically saved for each song, which is huge because I work on a lot of different songs each day.

One hidden treat – you can use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out on different sections of the music. It’s obvious and elegant, but most music programs don’t have it.

⇒ Get SlowGold

VLC – Simple playback slowdown

VLC is one of the most popular media players out there because it plays almost any file, you can easily include subtitles and it has a very easy-to-use interface.

However, VLC is also doing a great job in reducing the playback speed of video and audio, and it’s also very easy to do so.

After you load the file of your choice and hit the Play button, access the Playback tab and select the Speed option from the drop-down menu.

There, you will see 4 options to slow down or play faster and one to return to the normal speed.

VLC also has shortcuts for these options. Usually, there are the [ an ] keys on your keyboard, but you can change them from the media player’s settings.

However, you can only slow down the playback of a track or clip, and you can’t save it with a new speed from the player itself.

⇒ Get VLC

And when it comes to music, you can only trust the best audio booster software for a better experience.

Did your best software to slow down music make it to the list? If not, tell us which one you use or which one of these meets your needs in the comments section below.

Windows Update Error 0x80070424: 7 Simple Solutions to Apply

Posted on January 31, 2023March 22, 2024 by Ivan Jenic

We’ve got you covered if you experience Windows update error 0x80070424 while running Windows updates. Since this is an update error, you can expect that it affects your ability to update the OS.

This is an error related to the Windows Update Standalone Installer. Windows Update Standalone Installer (Wusa.exe) is a built-in utility tool that downloads and installs Windows Update packages. So, let’s find out how you can fix things.

What causes the error code 0x80070424?

The most common causes of this error are:

WU services – For Windows Update to download and install securely, several services must be active. The error will thus be shown if the necessary services aren’t operating.
Problematic system files – This error may also appear if system files are corrupt or missing.
Issues with the server: In some cases, users encountered the error due to an issue with the update server.

Now let us discuss some of the best resolutions for this error.

How do I fix the error 0x80070424?

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

Restart the computer.
Make sure you have a stable Internet connection.
Try again in a while if the servers are currently down or overloaded.

If nothing works, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Go to Start, and click on Settings.
Head over to Update & Security.
Click Troubleshoot, find Windows Update, and click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow further on-screen instructions, then restart your computer.

You may also achieve success using some of the best Windows troubleshooting tools.

2. Repair your system

Open the Start menu, press Shift, and hit the Restart button.
When the options screen comes up, select Troubleshoot.
Click Advanced options.
Choose Startup Repair, and select Restart.

Damaged system files often generate Windows Update errors, including 0x80070424, and to solve this issue, the best way is to restore your device to a previous health point.

You can do this by choosing a dedicated tool that can eventually repair corrupted files and replace them with fresh new ones and improve your system.

3. Run SFC and DISM

3.1 Running SFC

Go to Start, type command, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
A new cmd window appears. Type the line below and hit Enter:
sfc /scannow
Wait until the scan and repair process is finished.

It is well noted that corrupted system files cause the Windows (0x80070424) error. Hence, running the System File Checker tool might be applicable in resolving the issue.

3.2 Running DISM

Go to Start, type command, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
A new cmd window appears. Type the line below and hit Enter:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
If the DISM can’t obtain files online, try using your USB or DVD installation. Insert media, type the command below, and hit Enter (be sure to replace C:/RepairSourceWindows with the path of your DVD or USB).
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:RepairSourceWindows /LimitAccess

4. Enable critical Windows update services

Press Windows + R to launch Run, type services.msc, and click OK.
Locate Workstation, double-click on it, set Startup type to Automatic, and click on the Start button.
Similarly, run the Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer services.
Restart your system and then continue with the Windows update.

If you experience the Windows Update error encountered 0x80070424 alert, make sure the critical services are running to fix things.

5. Register System Files

Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
Type the following command line-by-line and click OK afterward: regsvr32 Qmgr.dll /s regsvr32 Qmgrprxy.dll /s
Restart your system and then run the Windows Update.

Important Windows system files (in .dll file format) are required to download and install Windows Updates in one piece.

Hence, if the system files are not registered on your Windows PC, the Windows Update error 0x80070424 might come up.

6. Reset Windows updates components

Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu and choose Command Prompt (Admin) from the list.
Once the Command Prompt opens, run the following commands: net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver Ren C:\windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old Ren C:\windows\System32catroot2 Catroot2.old net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver

Another applicable workaround to fix the update error 0x80070424 is manually resetting Windows Updates components.

After running these commands, check to see if the problem is resolved. If typing the commands seems convoluted, you can fix this problem by creating a reset script.

7. Download the update manually

Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
In the search box, type the update code and then hit the Enter key.
From the list of matching updates, locate the update that uses the same architecture as your system, and click the Download button next to the update to download it.
Once you download the update, run the setup file, and follow the installation prompts.
After the update is complete, restart your Windows PC.

If you cannot update your PC due to update error 0x80070424, you can quickly fix the problem by downloading the update directly from Microsoft’s Update Catalog.

These steps should help you resolve the Windows update service missing 0x80070424 error. In case the problem persists, factory reset Windows as a last resort.

If you know any other solution or have queries regarding the topic, drop them in the comments section below.

Can A Power Outage Damage Your PC? [4 Preventive Tips]

Posted on January 30, 2023October 2, 2025 by Vladimir Popescu

Our computers rely on power and voltage to stay on and work efficiently. However, if you live in an area with frequent power outages, you might wonder if power outages can damage your PC.

This article will explain how power outages can damage your computer and what preventive measures you can take to avoid them.

Can power outages damage computers?

Yes, power outages can damage your computer and cause data corruption and hardware malfunction.

A sudden shutdown could end your processes in between, corrupting the system files and thereby corrupting the OS. When you try to restart the computer, the operating system will not be able to boot.

Frequent power outages reduce the hard disk lifespan as it causes physical stress to the hard disk and other computer components.

The stress can further cause physical damage to the hard disk, including surface damage, head crashes, and spindle motor failures.

What is the most likely consequence of a sudden power outage in a computer?

The motherboard and chips embedded inside a CPU are fragile, and if your computer shuts down suddenly due to a power outage, it can damage the components.

The app and OS running before the power outage can also be damaged when interrupted. In some cases, the damage is so severe that you might have to reinstall your operating system.

What happens if the power goes out while the PC is on?

If the power goes out while the PC is on, it can cause a sudden shutdown and lead to data loss and hardware malfunction.

What can I do to prevent damage from a power outage on your computer?

1. Shutdown the PC

If you already know there will be a power blackout in your area, don’t use your computer during that time. Also, ensure you shut down your computer and remove the power plug.

2. Use a surge protector

You can use a surge protector to protect your computer against power surges during a power outage. The surge protector diverts the extra voltage to the ground, protecting your computer from damage.

3. Use a UPS

UPS - how does power outage affect computer

Getting a reliable Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is an excellent way to protect your computer from power outages and surges. UPS provides backup power and prevents data corruption or loss and hardware damage.

4. Keep your drivers up to date

Press Windows + R to open the Run window.
Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Device Manager.
Go to all the drivers listed one by one, right-click on them and click Update driver.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.

In case you require an easier method to update your drivers securely on your PC, you can utilize the automated tool Outbyte Driver Updater.

This practical software will scan the system for outdated or missing drivers and update them all at once or individually.

So, these are preventive steps you need to follow to ensure your computer is not damaged due to a power outage.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to mention them in the comments below.

Kodi Not Working / Not Opening on Windows 10 & 11: Why & Fix

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

Once an Xbox exclusive – nowadays a multi-platform fan-favorite media center. Kodi is one of the best multimedia players, with many different features, add-ons, and an amazing interface.

However, the app is not without issues, with users reporting that Kodi is not working on Windows 10. This can be pretty frustrating, but it is not an issue that is impossible to fix, as we will show in this guide.

How to address Kodi not working in Windows 10

1. Check drivers and DirectX

Navigate to one of these sites depending on your GPU:
- Intel
- AMD
- Nvidia
Search for your GPU and download the latest drivers.
Install your drivers and restart the PC.
Now, in the Windows Search bar, type dxdiag and open the first result.
At the bottom, you’ll see the current DirectX version running on your PC.
The updates can be found here for all current and previous DirectX versions.

You need stable legacy drivers on your PC to use the Kodi player successfully. You’ll need to navigate to OEM’s official site to obtain the legacy driver for your GPU.

The lack of appropriate software support can affect Kodi’s usability, so check the drivers and DirectX, as shown above. After you’ve dealt with drivers and DirectX, check if Kodi is working.

2. Update Kodi

Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer and navigate to the path below: C:Users > <Your username> > AppData > Roaming
Now, back up the Kodi folder.
Download the Kodi v17.4 Krypton installation file from this link.
Right-click the installation file and Run as administrator.
Finally, run Kodi and look for changes.

Updates are frequent, especially if you are enrolled in the beta version, and most of the time, the majority of critical issues are resolved after updates.

One of the stable versions of Kodi is 17.4 Krypton, so make sure to obtain it if you already haven’t. The update procedure equals the fresh installation, with a few differences.

3. Delete the Addons27.db file

Press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to open Task Manager.
Right-click all Kodi-related processes and select End task.
Now, copy-paste the path below into the Windows Search bar or Windows Explorer address bar: %APPDATA%KodiuserdataDatabase
Select the Addons27.db option and press the Delete button.
Finally, restart Kodi.

Kodi is great, but the abundance of add-ons that are not well-optimized is risky. And most of the time, the resolution for the problem we’re addressing today is somehow related to Add-ons.

To fix this Kodi not working issue, you should delete a configuration file that stores all the add-on-related data.

Now, you should be able to locate and install the add-ons that support the latest Kodi version, which is, as we already stated, v17.4 Krypton.

4. Disable Hardware Acceleration

Open Kodi.
Choose the cog-like Settings icon.
Now, open Player Settings.
Under the left pane, click on the bottom cog until you set the Expert mode.
Select Videos.
Scroll down and disable Allow hardware acceleration DXVA2.
Restart Kodi and give it another go.

The system’s capabilities occasionally need a hardware push when it comes to the playback of high-resolution video files. And that push comes with the Hardware Acceleration feature.

However, this feature can cause Kodi not to work on Windows 10. In some cases, it can even lead to black screen issues. Hence, you need to disable this feature to fix this issue.

5. Reinstall Kodi

Press the Windows key + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
Right-click Kodi and select the Uninstall option.
Copy-paste the path below to the Windows Search bar or Windows Explorer address bar and press Enter: %APPDATA%Kodi
Delete the Kodi folder.
Finally, restart your PC and start the installer.

Sometimes, you might have made changes causing Kodi not to work on Windows 10. In this case, you need to uninstall and reinstall the app.

6 Install other or older version

Finally, if none of the aforementioned solutions served you justice, you should consider switching to an older Kodi version. We’re well aware that the portable version or older versions lack the usability of the full 17.4 Krypton, but they at least work.

Additionally, there’s a chance that further updates will sort things out, so this is just a temporary solution.

There you have it: everything you need to fix Kodi if it is not working on Windows 10. All you need to do now is to follow the steps carefully.

In the same vein, if your VPN is not working with Kodi, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

What’s your experience with the latest Kodi release version? Tell us in the comments section below.

How to Install & Use PowerToys on Windows 11

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Loredana Harsana

If you are looking for a way to install PowerToys on Windows 11, you are at the right place. This guide will discuss how to install PowerToys and use them to customize Windows for greater productivity. Let’s get started!

Does PowerToys work on Windows 11?

Yes, PowerToys work on Windows 11, and it was made available on GitHub in 2019 and Microsoft Store in 2021. You can also download it using the Winget command on Command Prompt.

How can I install PowerToys on Windows 11?

Before installing the utility, you should consider performing the following checks:

A user account with administrator privileges on your computer.
Internet access to download the PowerToys installer.

1. Use the Microsoft Store

Go to the Microsoft PowerToys on the Microsoft Store website.
Click Get in Store app.
You will be directed to Microsoft app. Click the Install button.
Click Yes on the UAC prompt to complete the installation.

2. Use the Winget command

Press the Windows key, type CMD and click Run as administrator.
Copy and paste the following command to install and press Enter: winget install --id Microsoft.PowerToys
If you get Do you agree to all the source agreements terms prompt, type Y.
Wait for a few minutes, and PowerToys will be installed on Windows 11.

3. Use GitHub

Open the PowerToys page on the GitHub website.
Go to the latest section, and click on the PowerToys executable file to download the installer.
Now double-click the installer file to initiate the installation.
Click the Install button when prompted.

How can I use PowerToys on Windows 11?

You can launch PowerToys using the Search bar or Windows button. In addition, various tabs are available in the PowerToys utility to customize Windows 11. Let’s discuss them one by one.

1. General

This tab lets you modify settings, such as options to Download updates. Toggle on the switch for Download updates and Always run as administrator option for optimal usage. In addition, this section lets you make changes to the app theme and customize other settings.

2. Always on Top

With this tab, you can pin the window you are using to remain visible. You can also customize the border color and thickness of the selected window.

3. Awake

With the Awake tab, you can keep your computer awake on demand. You can select either Keep using the selected power plan, Keep awake indefinitely, or Keep awake temporarily. You can toggle on the switch for Enable Awake to keep the screen on always.

4. Color Picker

Install PowerToys Windows 11 - Color picker

The Color picker allows you to pick out a color from any running app and copy the clipboard. You can also add a new format using this section.

5. FancyZones

This tab allows you to create an advanced layout for resizing several windows and changing Zone behavior.

6. File Locksmith

With the help of the Windows shell extension, File Locksmith allows you to check which files and directories are in use and which processes are using them.

7. File Explorer Add-ons

File Explorer - Install PowerToys Windows 11

With File Explorer Add-ons, you can get a preview pane enabled for all kinds of files, including MD, SVG, GCODE, and PDF.

8. Hosts File Editor

With this tool, you can quickly edit the hosts’ file, containing a list of IP addresses and matching domain names.

9. Image Resizer

With Image Resizer, you can change the size of the pictures in a batch. All you need to do is select images, right-click and select Resize pictures.

10. Keyboard Manager

With Keyboard Manager, you can create new keyboard shortcuts and modify the existing ones.

11. Mouse Utilities

With Mouse Utilities, you can get visual feedback when you click something. You can also locate your mouse pointer when needed.

12. PowerRename

With PowerRename, you can rename files and folders in bulk without using PowerShell. All you need to do is select files and folders, right-click and select PowerRename.

13. PowerToys Run

With PowerToys Run, you can quickly search and launch apps, files, and folders. You can also switch between open apps and windows.

14. Quick Accent

You can enable Quick Accent if you don’t have a keyboard with accented characters. To write accented characters, hold the key for the character to which you want to add an accent.

15. Screen Ruler

With Screen Ruler, you can easily measure the pixels on your screen based on image edge detection.

16. Shortcut Guide

Install Powertoys Windows 11 - Shortcut guide

As the name suggests, it gives you a list of shortcuts. All you need to do is press Windows + Shift + I to get it on the screen.

17. Text Extractor

The Text Extractor allows you to copy text from anywhere on your computer screen, even from videos and images.

18. Video Conference Mute

Install Powertoys Windows 11 Video Conference Mute

With Video Conference Mute, you can ensure your microphone is always on mute and the camera is off.

So, this is how you can install and use PowerToys on Windows 11. For more information, be sure to visit our guide on the best PowerToys utilities. If you have any questions about PowerToys, please let us know in the comments section below.

Fix Motherboard Not Getting Power (Easy Steps)

Posted on January 30, 2023July 22, 2025 by Vladimir Popescu

If your motherboard won’t power on, don’t panic just yet. Whether you’re dealing with a Gigabyte, ASUS, or any other brand, or your PC refuses to boot entirely, it doesn’t always mean there’s a serious hardware issue. This guide walks you through beginner-friendly troubleshooting methods using only built-in Windows tools and basic checks, no advanced tech skills required.

Why Your Motherboard Isn’t Getting Power
How to Fix a Motherboard Not Getting Power

Why Your Motherboard Isn’t Getting Power

Several basic issues can cause a motherboard not to boot or receive power, such as:

Faulty outlets or unplugged power cables
Sleep or hibernate settings blocking startup
A power surge or incomplete shutdown
PSU-related configuration or wattage mismatch

If you’re curious about power mismatches, you can check your PSU’s wattage to ensure it matches your system’s needs.

How to Fix a Motherboard Not Getting Power

1. Check the Power Cable and Outlet

Start with the simplest check.

Confirm the power cable is plugged securely into the PC and the wall.
Use a known working wall outlet rather than a power strip.
If your power supply has a switch, make sure it is turned on.

If you suspect a faulty PSU, you can test your power supply using software without opening your PC.

2. Try a Power Reset

Resetting the internal power can often bring an unresponsive PC back.

Turn off the PC and unplug it.
Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds.
Wait one minute, plug it back in, and try powering on.

This helps in cases where the motherboard will not power on due to static buildup or a failed shutdown.

3. Look for Signs of Power

Check for basic indicators when you press the power button:

Spinning fans
Lights inside the case
A single beep or startup sound

If you see or hear nothing, the motherboard might not be receiving any power at all. For persistent cases, check out this guide on Windows 10 power supply problems.

4. Run the Built-In Power Troubleshooter

If your PC sometimes powers on but doesn’t boot properly, let Windows try to fix it:

Press Windows + I to open Settings
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
Click Run next to Power

This troubleshooter can repair corrupted power plans and startup behavior.

5. Adjust Power Plan Settings

Sleep or hibernate mode can block startup if misconfigured.

Open Control Panel
Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options
Select Balanced or High performance
Click Change plan settings
Set Put the computer to sleep to Never
Click Save changes

These changes help avoid power states that cause the motherboard not to start the power supply.

FAQ

Will these steps delete any of my data?

No. All of the actions are non-destructive and do not affect your files or apps.

Do I need to open my computer case for these steps?

No. This guide uses only external tools and Windows features.

Is there a way to test my overall system health?

Yes. Use a computer performance test online to assess your system’s behavior once it boots again.

Conclusion

A motherboard not getting power doesn’t always mean it’s dead. These safe, beginner-friendly steps help you troubleshoot without tools or risk. Whether your motherboard will not power on or boot, a few simple checks can often bring your PC back to life.

iTunes Won’t Launch on Windows 10: Why & How to Fix

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Tashreef Shareef

The iTunes client for Windows 10 allows iPhone users to manage their media files and updates from the Windows computer. However, some users have reported that the app has stopped working after updating their iTunes client.

If you try to launch the app, iTunes only shows the loading icon but does not launch properly. In this guide, we will show you the easy ways to fix this issue.

Why is iTunes not launching?

There are several factors that can cause the iTunes app not to launch on Windows 10. Below are some of them:

Faulty app: The first thing to check if the iTunes app is not working is if the app is broken. To do this, you need to repair your installation and see if Windows finds any faults.
Lack of privilege: In some cases, the iTunes app might not open because you lack administrative privileges. The solution to this is to run the app as an administrator.

iTunes won’t open windows 10

1. Repair iTunes

1.1. Use Control Panel

Exit iTunes launcher or any other service if running.
Locate the iTunes icon (shortcut) on the desktop and delete it.
Press the Windows key + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
Now, right-click iTunes and select the Change option.
Finally, select the Repair option and proceed with the on-screen instructions.

iTunes has a built-in option to repair corrupted or missing system files in case an issue occurs. You can run the repair tool from the Control Panel.

1.2. Repair From Settings

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Apps.
Choose the iTunes option and click Advanced Options.
Finally, click the Repair button to repair the iTunes client.

After the repair is complete, reboot the computer. Launch iTunes and check for any improvements.

2. Launch iTunes as Administrator

Users have reported that launching iTunes as the administrator helped them resolve the error. Launching iTunes as an administrator can fix any permission-related issues with the client.

Simply right-click on the iTunes desktop shortcut and select Run as administrator. If UAC asks for permission, click on Yes.

3. Check for Hardware / Software Conflict

If you have recently installed a Bluetooth card or WiFi adapter, the driver or the software may be creating conflict with the iTunes launcher.

If the issue appears after installing new software, try to uninstall the software and launch iTunes.

4. Other Fixes to Try

Here are a few minor yet effective fixes that can help you resolve the iTunes-related issues on your Windows 10 computer.

Exit BTTray.exe Bluetooth utility from Broadcom if installed. You can check for the bttray.exe process in the Task Manager. Select the process and select End.
Remove any SD card inserted or an external hard disk connected to the PC.
Try to open iTunes in safe mode by pressing Ctrl + Shift. Press the key combo and launch iTunes.
Disable Third-party antivirus temporarily and check for any improvements.

If you have installed new hardware, remove the hardware and uninstall the concerned drivers. Reboot the system and launch iTunes. If iTunes works without the hardware, you may have to update the hardware driver from the device manager.

That is about it for the iTunes not launching issue. Now, you only need to follow the steps carefully, and things should be back to normal.

If you are facing other issues, like iTunes won’t install on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to fix it for good.

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

Enable Active Directory Users and Computers on Windows 11 + Video

Posted on January 30, 2023May 31, 2024 by Loredana Harsana

Here’s how to enable active users and computers in Windows 11.The normal installation doesn’t include ADUC, but you can install it. Here’s how:

How can I install Active Directory Users and Computers in Windows 11?

Download Additional features

First you need to open the Settings app. You can do so by pressing the Windows + I keys from your keyboard, then go to Apps from the left menu, followed by Optional features.
Now click on the View features button and search for RSAT: Active Directory Domain Services and Lightweight Directory Services Tools and click Next in order to continue with the installation process.

How can I enable Active Directory Users and Computers in Windows 10 alone?

On both operating systems, the procedure to install and enable Active Directory Users and Computers is the same as for the other. The only difference will be that instead of the Next button, you will have an Install button.

Consequently, you can open Settings on Windows 10, then go to Apps . Then, go to Optional features, as we did above, and install the same package named: RSAT: Active Directory Domain Services and Lightweight Directory Services Tools.

ADUC will be downloaded and configured on your computer once the installation process has been completed. To double-check, press the Start button.

The Administrative Tools folder will be on the menu bar, and it should contain Active Directory Users and Computers information.

How does ADUC work?

When it comes to administration and end-users, Active Directory makes life easier while also increasing security for enterprises.

It centralizes and manages administrative privileges and rights. Administrators have centralized control over computer and user configurations thanks to the Active Directory Group Policy feature.

After authenticating once, users can access any resources in the domain for which they got access without having to authenticate again (single sign-on).

Also, files get stored in a shareable repository. This facilitates collaboration and a safe backup.

folder enable active directory users and computers

The Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) service is the primary Active Directory service. It is included with the Windows Server operating system.

Domain controllers (DCs) are the servers that are responsible for administering AD DS. Organizations typically have numerous domain controllers, each of which contains a copy of the domain directory for the whole directory.

The changes to the directory on one domain controller – such as changing a user’s password or deleting a user account – replicate to other domain controllers.

This ensures they are all up to date with the latest information.

It’s critical to note that Active Directory is only available for Microsoft systems that are hosted on-premises.

Azure Active Directory, on the other hand, is for Microsoft environments in the cloud. But it performs the same functions as its on-premises counterpart.

Although Active Directory and Azure Active Directory are independent, they can function together to a certain extent if your firm has both on-premises and cloud IT systems (a hybrid deployment).

What’s in the Active Directory database?

This database contains information on the Active Directory objects that are present in the domain. Users, computers, programs, printers, and shared folders are all examples of AD objects.

A number of objects can contain additional objects (this is why some places describe AD as hierachal). The categorization of them into organizational units and the streamlining of security by grouping users are two common ways in which companies simplify administration and security.

These organizational units and groups are also objects that are saved in the directory. Attributes are characteristics of objects. Some characteristics are immediately noticeable, while others are more subtle.

For example, a user object typically contains attributes such as the person’s name, password, department, and email address.

It can also contain attributes not visible to the general public. These include Globally Unique Identifier (GUID), Security Identifier (SID), and last login time.

When a database is structured, it indicates that there is a design that dictates what sorts of information are stored in the database and how that information is organized.

A schema is a type of design that organizes information. It is no exception in the case of Active Directory, whose schema comprises formal definitions of every object class that can be generated in a forest, as well as formal definitions of every attribute.

Wrapping up

Important to understand is that it’s important to prepare the schema carefully upfront, because of the critical function that Active Directory plays in authentication and authorization. Modifying the schema of the AD database can have a significant impact on your organization.

Was this guide helpful? Do let us know in the comments section below and whether you have any other solutions in mind. Thanks for reading!

How To Remove Airplane Mode In Laptop [Step-By-Step]

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Ivan Jenic

Airplane Mode is a usual thing in many devices nowadays. And computers using Windows 10/8/8.1 aren’t different.

Airplane Mode is a very useful feature, especially for business people who travel by plane a lot, but it also could cause some problems, and we’re here to try to solve it.

How do I remove Airplane Mode in laptop?

As I already said in the introduction, the Airplane Mode is a built-in feature of Windows 10/8.1 and later systems being very handy for those who travel by plane. It allows you to use all offline features of the system, without connecting to the internet, allowing you to avoid huge additional costs.

But once you get off the plane, and your Airplane Mode is still turned on, you’ll definitely want to turn it off again, but what if you can’t? Don’t worry, try some of these solutions, and you’ll probably solve your problem.

1. Turn Off Airplane Mode from Networks pane

First, just in case you should check if you turned off Airplane Mode correctly, to turn off the Airplane Mode, do the following:

While on Desktop, move the mouse cursor to the bottom right corner of the screen and go to Settings
On the opened Settings pane in the right, click the wireless network icon from the lower section
On the opened Networks pane in the right, move the button under the Airplane mode section to the left to turn the Airplane mode feature off
In order to turn the Airplane mode feature back on, follow the steps from 1 to 3 while moving the button under the Airplane mode section to the right

2. Via Action Center in Windows 10

Press and hold Windows Key + A and open Action Center
Click Airplane Mode to turn it On/Off

3. Turn off Airplane Mode from Settings

If you want to permanently turn off Airplane Mode, you can do so by going to the Setting menu and switch it off.

Hit the Windows Key and select Settings from the start menu.
Click on Network&Internet
On the left pane click Airplane Mode
Turn it Off and close the Settings window.

What to do if you can’t turn off Airplane Mode?

In case you’re not able to turn it off at all, because the switch is grayed out, check if there’s no physical wireless On/Of switch on the device. If you find a physical switch device and it is set to Off, just switch it back to On and you should be able to turn off the Airplane mode on your laptop.

We have recently covered how to fix Airplane Mode errors, so you can find there some useful information. Some users also reported that Windows 10 switches to airplane mode on its own. If you encounter any issues, search on our site for a solution or leave a comment below.

An Error Occurred Applying Attributes Access Is Denied: Fix

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Milan Stanojevic

Windows 10 has come with a myriad of teething problems here and there, but most, if not all of them, usually have a workaround or an accepted solution. One such is the error users get while applying attributes.

It usually appears with the message: An error occurred applying attributes to the file: Access is Denied. So, let’s find out all about the error and its solutions.

How can I fix the error occurred applying attributes issue?

1. Take ownership of a file or folder

Right-click the folder that you want to take ownership, and select Properties.
Navigate to the Security tab, and click Advanced.
Click Change. If you are prompted for an administrator password or for confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
Type the name of the person you want to give ownership to.
Click Check Names. The account name for the person you assign ownership to is displayed. Then, click OK.
If you want this person to be the owner of the files and subfolders that are contained in this folder, select the Replace owner on subcontainers and objects check box.
Click OK.

Usually, the Windows 10 error applying attributes message comes up either because you don’t have the appropriate permissions or the file is encrypted. So, make changes to it, and you shouldn’t encounter an error while applying attributes.

2. Check if you have appropriate permissions

Right-click the file or folder, and then click Properties.
Click the Security
Under Group or user names, click your name to see the permissions that you have.

To open a file, you should have the Read permission. To change the permissions of a file or folder, follow these steps (log on as an administrator to change permissions on files and folders):

Right-click the file or folder, and then click Properties.
Click the Security
Under Group or user names click your name to see the permissions that you have.
Click Edit, click your name, select the check boxes for the permissions that you must have, and then click OK.

Issues experienced when trying to access files and folders, such as Windows 10 error applying attributes, may be related to permissions, which determine whether or not you can access or change the files and folders.

3. Check if the file/folder is encrypted

Right-click the file or folder, and select Properties.
In the General tab, click Advanced.
Check if the Encrypt contents to secure data check box is selected. If it is, then you will have to get the certificate that was used to encrypt the file or folder so as to open it.

Encryption protects files and folders from unwanted access. You can’t open an encrypted file/folder without the encryption certificate, but you can easily verify the same.

4. Create a new user account

If your user profile is corrupted, Windows may prevent you from accessing files or folders, so you need to use a new user profile by first creating a local user account, which in turn creates a user profile.

Login to the new account you just created and see if you can access the file or folder. If the issue goes away, then it may mean your other user profile is corrupted. And in this case, we recommend that you switch the new account to administrator.

5. Run Microsoft Safety Scanner

Microsoft Safety Scanner is a tool designed to locate and remove malware from Windows PCs. It only scans when manually triggered, then you get to use it ten days after you download it.

However, it doesn’t replace your antimalware program. It helps remove malicious software from your Windows computer that causes the problem. To remove the Microsoft Safety Scanner tool, delete the msert.exe.

6. Recover files from Windows.old folder

Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, then click This PC, and double-click the drive that Windows is installed on (typically, drive C).
Now, double-click the Windows.old folder
Double-click the Users folder
Double-click your user name.
Open the folders that contain the files you want to retrieve. For example, to retrieve files in the Documents folder, double-click Documents and then move it to the concerned folder on the PC.
Repeat these last three steps for each user account on your computer.

If you recently upgraded your computer to Windows 10 from an earlier iteration and did not format the hard disk, you might still be able to access your old files from the Windows.old folder.

And while we are fixing things, do not forget to check the best ways to boost the performance of Windows.

Let us know if any of these solutions helped fix the file permissions issue on your computer by leaving a comment below.

HDD Failure: Main Symptoms & What Can You Do?

Posted on January 30, 2023September 26, 2024 by Srishti Sisodia

Hard drives, no matter how good they are, will eventually fail. However, the hard drive gives you signs before complete failure, so you can always create a backup.

This guide will cover all the symptoms of HDD failure so you can identify the issue and learn how to fix it.

What happens when an HDD fails?

When a hard drive fails, the disk will not be able to function correctly, and you can not access or store data. The reasons behind the issue could be mechanical failure, firmware failure, or logical failure.

If your HDD has stopped working, you must buy a new one and use a third-party recovery tool to recover your data.

Can a failing hard drive be fixed?

The answer to this question depends on the reasons for which the issue occurs; some of the reasons are:

Mechanical issue – If your disk is damaged, you can consult an expert about repairing or replacing the damaged parts and restoring the disk to working condition. The recovery chances are low.
Logical failure – If the failure is due to corrupted software or firmware, then you can restore disk data or firmware with the help of a repair tool. The recovery chances are high.
Firmware failure – If the firmware is failed, it can’t be fixed. You need to replace the hard disk with the new one.

How can I check if my HDD is failing?

1. Slow computer and sudden crashes

If you are getting a blue screen of death error now and then or have a very slow-performing computer that freezes while performing essential functions, you should create a backup of your important data and reinstall Windows. However, if the issue persists, the reason could be a failing hard disk. This can lead to errors such as ERROR_HANDLE_EOF.

2. Corrupted files on the hard drive

If you are frequently getting error messages while opening files or data on your files is getting corrupted on its own, these are some symptoms of HDD failure.

3. Strange Sounds

Hearing weird noises, screeching sounds, or a repetitive sound known as the click of death could be a sign of hard drive failure. It is better to create a backup before the disk becomes unusable.

4. Bad sectors on the disk

While running normal operations or opening files, if you hear a ticking sound, it is a sign of a bad sector. A bad sector is a disk storage unit damaged beyond repair, and data stored on it is lost. If there is an increase in bad sectors on your hard drive, it is also a symptom of HDD failure.

To fix this, you need to either run the CHKDSK command (which you will see described in the solutions section below) or use a third-party tool to find and repair the bad sectors of a hard disk.

What can I do if my hard disk is failing?

1. Use a backup tool

You should always create multiple backup files of your sensitive data. You can use Windows backup tools, cloud backup solutions, or reliable third-party backup software.

2. Run the CHKDSK command

Press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter: chkdsk /r c:
Enter Y when prompted, and the scan will run. Once it’s done, restart your computer.

3. Scan drive

Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
Go to This PC, right-click on the drive you want to scan, and select Properties.
Switch to the Tools tab, under Error checking, and click Check.
On the next window, next Scan drive.
Once the process is complete, you will receive a message confirming the same.

4. Buy a new HDD

If your HDD is damaged and can’t be used further, you must buy a new hard drive. If you don’t have a backup of your drive, you need a reliable recovery tool to retrieve the lost data. The software can recover your data from the damaged hard drive. You can then transfer it to the new one.

So, these are symptoms of HDD failure and steps to repair the disk and save your data. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

Screeching Sound From Laptop Speakers: Use These 7 Fixes

Posted on January 30, 2023October 3, 2025 by Milan Stanojevic

You’re not alone if you’re dealing with a screeching sound from your laptop speakers.

Several factors can cause this common issue, but the good news is that it can often be fixed quickly and easily.

In this article, we’ll provide you with some practical solutions to help resolve the screeching sound from your laptop speakers, so you can get back to using your computer in peace.

Why are my speakers making a screeching noise?

There are several reasons why laptop speakers can produce a screeching sound. Here are some of the most common causes:

Damaged speakers – Physical damage to the speakers can cause them to produce a screeching sound. This can be due to being dropped, bumped, or otherwise impacted.
Loose connections – The speakers may be loose or not correctly connected to the laptop, causing the sound to come out distorted.
Outdated audio driver – An outdated audio driver can cause compatibility issues that lead to a screeching sound.
Background noise – Other programs or processes running on your laptop may interfere with the audio output, causing a screeching sound.
Malware infection – Malicious software can cause various audio and performance issues, including a screeching sound from the speakers.
Overloaded audio system – Playing high-quality audio on a laptop with limited resources can cause the audio system to become overloaded, leading to a screeching sound.
Faulty hardware components – A malfunctioning speaker or audio card can cause the speakers to produce a screeching sound.
Volume levels too high – If the volume on the laptop is set too high, it can cause the speakers to produce a screeching sound.

Now we are past possible triggers, let us explore some solutions.

How can I fix the screeching sound from laptop speakers?

Run the audio troubleshooter
Perform a clean boot
Reinstall audio drivers
Update audio drivers
Use a generic audio driver
Place your hard drive
Check volume and BIOS settings

1. Run the audio troubleshooter

Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.
Go to the View by option in the top right corner, and select Large icons.
Click Troubleshooting.
Click the View all option on the left pane, and locate Playing Audio.
Run Playing Audio troubleshooter (opens a pop-up window – follow the instructions).

2. Perform a clean boot

Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
Click the Services tab, select Hide all Microsoft services box, then select Disable all.
Go to the Startup tab, and click Open Task Manager
Click on the start-up programs and select Disable.
Close Task Manager, then click OK.
Reboot your computer.

Performing a clean boot for your computer reduces software-related conflicts that can bring up the root causes of the computer screeching sound.

These conflicts can be caused by apps and services that generally start and run in the background when Windows starts.

You will have a clean boot environment after all these steps are carefully followed, after which you can try and check if the computer screeching sound goes away. If not, try the following solutions.

Can’t open Task Manager? Don’t worry; we’ve got the right solution on how to open Task Manager in Windows 10 or Windows 11.

3. Reinstall audio drivers

Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
Expand the Sound, Video, and game controllers option, right-click on the Sound card, and select Uninstall device.
Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.

If you lack time to go through every single troubleshooting tip mentioned below, there’s a shortcut that you need to know about from the very start.

Well, it involves uninstalling and reinstalling your audio driver. In this case, you can complete the procedure by following the above steps.

However, let us remind you that downloading drivers manually may cause conflict with the PC. It’s enough to make a simple mistake and install the wrong one.

That’s one unfortunate scenario only, yet many things can happen when you’re not mainly used to such procedures. So, don’t hesitate to install the Outbyte Driver Updater tool to prevent all potential issues.

Let us tell you more about how it works. Instead of worrying about making the right choice, Outbyte Driver Updater performs an efficient scan for you from a database of over 18 million drivers.

Later on, it does what knows the best – you can see how the download is progressing, and before updating your audio drivers, the app will even perform a quick backup for safekeeping.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Reinstall all drivers automatically with this dedicated software with a comprehensive scan.

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4. Update audio drivers

Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
Expand the Sound, Video, and game controllers option, right-click on the Sound card, and select Update driver.
Select the option to Automatically search for updates.
Restart your computer.

Another option is to update your audio drivers. You can apply the above steps or, even better, use the Outbyte Driver Updater tool we’ve told you about.

5. Use the generic audio driver

Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
Expand the Sound, Video, and game controllers option, right-click on the Sound card, and select Update driver.
Select Browse my computer for driver software.
Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer – that’s the option you need to choose next.
Select the High Definition Audio device option and follow the installation instructions.

6. Replace your hard drive

If the computer screeching sound persists, then it may be a problem with the hard drive when the heads scrape the platters inside it.

Before you replace the drive, back up all your data from the computer, as the damage may cause data loss.

Check to confirm that it is not the hard drive, as it may be the computer fans making the noise as they also go bad. If you hear clicking sounds, then total drive failure is imminent.

Replace your drive ASAP after backing up your data, then restore it to your computer.

If it is the fans’ fault and not the hard drive, take off the side case and check if all fans are rotating. If there’s a dead one, you can replace it quickly and affordably.

While the side is open, you can also vacuum clean all air vents to remove any accumulated dust.

7. Check volume and BIOS settings

Sometimes the playback recorder may be set to Listen to this device, and this, along with mic amplification, can be set higher than usual, causing a feedback loop.

So the computer screeching sound you hear is an amalgam of the cooling fans, system sounds, and other ambient noises recycled through the mic and amplified continuously through the speakers.

Change the range of sound from high to optimum for the speakers to output.

You can also check your BIOS settings as sometimes – and on different computers – this is set to alarm when the CPU hits a specified level (degrees).

You can raise or lower this threshold and see if the computer screeching sound goes away.

Another reason for the computer screeching sound is your frame rates may be too high for the monitor, so you need to check the monitor refresh rate, usually at 500-60Hz, and set yours to match.

This will stop the noise from the capacitors on your graphics processor unit (GPU).

That would be all! Let us know if these solutions worked by leaving a comment in the section below.

HP Scan Software & Drivers Download → Scan and Capture, Smart

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Vladimir Popescu

Does HP have a scanner software? We’re glad you asked. The HP Scan software goes as far back as the old days of Windows XP. And it’s been a staple of the OS, up until Windows 11.

So, what is HP scanning software called? The app is called HP Scan and Capture. There is also the HP Smart app or HP Easy Start software and we shall try to cover a bit of them as well.

The tool allows you to easily scan any document, edit it directly from your PC and share it with different applications.

However, users have faced compatibility issues over the years when downloading and installing the software. This is even more common in older versions of Windows.

How do I get my HP printer scanner to scan?

The scanning solution works only with the correct installation of the appropriate drivers, and the tool itself, downloaded from the official source.

If you already upgraded to the latest Microsoft OS, here’s how to download and install HP printer drivers on Windows 11.

The HP Customer Support base has some key tips for installing the HP Scan software. Note that if you’re downloading from a third-party source, you’re at risk of inadvertently installing malware.

Although some scanners come with pre-installed software for your PC, not all of them may be compatible with your version of Windows.

Some users have also found that downloading and installing the HP Scan software requires logging in via a cloud-based HP account.

In this article, you’ll learn how to download and correctly install the HP Scan and Capture software on Windows 10 and 11. You’ll also see whether or not you need an HP account to use it. Read on!

How do I get HP scanner software?

1. Download the official HP Scan software

Visit the download page.
Click on Get and wait for the system to complete installation.

2. Install and activate the HP Scan app

After the download completes, click on Open.
In the new window, click on the Settings menu.
From the list of options, you can connect to other devices by clicking Select Device.

The app is also available to use on the Microsoft Store and Google PlayStore.

Users should note that the HP Easy Start App is an alternative software through which they can download the universal print driver (alternatively available here), or the HP Scan and Capture app.

That leaves us with the third app. Is HP Smart app any good? What is the difference between HP Smart and HP Easy Start?

HP Smart is mostly used for newer printers with network connectivity, but they essentially serve the same purpose, which is to scan images from a computer or printer camera.

If you install the Full Feature Software with all the necessary drivers to really do not need the HP Smart app.

How do I install HP Smart App on my PC?

For optimum functionality, HP recommends that users download and install the HP Smart/Easy Start app. To do this, follow the steps below:

Go to the download page.
Type in your HP printer version and press Enter in the search box.
Click on Install HP Easy Start.

? Do I need an HP Smart account to scan?

In addition to a valid and stable Internet connection, it’s likely that the HP Smart requires you to create and log into an HP account in order to enjoy features such as Print Anywhere, or share files in the Cloud.

Nevertheless, you are not obliged to sign in to your HP account in order to scan and you can simply omit this step or skip it when prompted to do so.

You simply need to press the Cancel button and resume scanning instead.

How do I scan with HP without the app?

The HP scan software is useful to download and use in order to simplify things. However, it is not mandatory to use it and you can just as well scan without it or any other software for that matter (HP Smart, HP Easy Start, or third-party programs).

If you choose to do so, simply locate and open the HP Printer Assistant on your PC.
Select the Manage Scan to Computer option from the Scan menu.
Finally, make sure you enable it and that’s it.

If you already upgraded to Microsoft’s latest OS, we have even more useful ways to enable Scan to Computer on Windows 11.

Thank you for reading! Your comments in the section below are welcome.

Esent Error [Event ID 455] On Windows: Quick Fix

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Tashreef Shareef

The Esent Event ID 455 has reportedly been appearing in the Event Viewer for many users on Windows 10. The error seems to be frequently occurring after updating to the latest version of Windows 10.

The error can trigger several computer issues, including freezing when playing CPU and GPU-intensive tasks like games. At times, it may also lead to loud noise blasting through the speakers.

What is an Esent error?

When an issue occurs, Windows saves error details in logs to help the user identify issues if required. The main reason behind the Esent error also seems to be due to a missing log EDB.log file in the following location:

C:\WINDOWS\system32\config\systemprofile\AppData\Local\TileDataLayer\Database\EDB.log

If you are also troubled by this error, here is how to fix the Windows 10 error Event ID 455 Esent for good.

How can I fix the Esent Event ID 455 error?

1. Create missing folders

NOTE

If you are having trouble accessing the folders, grant the required permissions, and things should be good to go.

Open File Explorer and navigate to the following location:
C:\WINDOWS\system32\config\systemprofile\AppData\Local
Once in the folder, right-click on any empty place and select New, and click on Folder.
Rename the folder as TileDataLayer (if the folder already exists, move to the next step).
Open the TileDataLayer folder, and create a new folder named Database.

Leave the newly created folder for a few minutes. Upon opening the folder, you will see the EDB.log file and other log files now exist in the folder.

This should also fix the Esent Event ID 455 error message in Event Viewer. If the issue persists, restart your computer and try again to see if the error or freezing problems are resolved.

2. Create required folders using Command Prompt

Press Windows + S to open Search, type cmd, and click on Run as administrator.
Type the following command one by one and hit Enter to execute:
cd config\systemprofile\AppData\Local mkdir TileDataLayer cd TileDataLayer mkdir Database
The above command will create folders named TileDatalayer and Database.
Once done, restart the computer, and verify if things are up and running.

In most cases, the Esent Event ID 455 does not always lead to errors and affects normal Windows operations. However, in rare instances, it may lead to Windows crashing and freezing problems.

To fix the error, all you need to do is create a few missing directories allowing Windows to create and save the EDB.log files.

Once you are done fixing the error, find out how to make Windows faster than before.

If the issue persists, begin by checking the reliability history and then move to the Event Viewer to diagnose the issue.

Slack Huddle vs Call: What is the Difference?

Posted on January 30, 2023August 28, 2025 by Loredana Harsana

Slack allows you to easily communicate with your coworkers, but many want to learn about the difference between Slack huddle vs a call.

If you like comparison articles, then be sure not to miss our Slack vs Skype guide in which we compare these two services in detail.

So what’s the difference between calls and huddles in Slack? Keep on reading to find out.

What are the differences between a Slack Huddle and a Slack Call?

The huddle feature is a type of conference call, with the key difference between it and a typical conference call being that it is completely spontaneous without any predefined subject.

A normal conference call is scheduled for a specified time with a specific topic of hand and predetermined list of participants.

On the other hand, Slack huddles are informal meetings with no predetermined agenda that are open to everyone in your workspace.

Here’s a quick feature comparison:

Feature	Calls	Huddles
Video	Yes	Yes
Screen sharing	Yes, only one person can share the screen at a time	Yes, up to two people can share their screens at a time
Drawing on shared screen	Yes	Yes
Thread for messages	No	Yes
Emoji reactions	Yes	Emoji reactions, effects, and strickers
Live captions	Yes	Yes
Notifications	Yes, call ring for all invitees	Yes, you'll get notified only if you're invited to participate in a huddle that is started

As you can see, huddles offer better functionality than calls, so it’s no wonder that Slack is retiring calls feature in favor of huddles.

Want to see how Slack stacks up against Microsoft’s platform? Check our full Slack vs Teams comparison for a detailed breakdown.

Calls will be available until March 30, 2023, but after that all calling functionality will go through huddles.

Further on, we will show you how to start a Slack huddle vs call, right after we understand better how the former work. Follow along!

How do Slack huddles work?

Short and easy audio calls, known as Slack huddles, allow you and other members of your team to speak with one another in real-time while working on a project.

Increasingly, the speed of technological disruption of traditional business techniques continues to grow with each new feature introduced by Internet businesses.

The huddle feature, for example, seeks to simulate regular conversations in the real workplace that aren’t necessarily focused on work-related issues, such as lunch breaks, but are nonetheless important (though they could be).

However, despite the fact that they can be about anything, they usually have a fundamental subject or a central issue that they are based around.

The term does not refer to a scheduled or organized meeting at which everyone is obligated to attend when used in this sense. They are unplanned and unstructured, and they are intended to do only one thing: to encourage discussion among those who participate.

Join any huddles that have already been established inside your organization, and you will be able to share your screen, engage in real-time discussions, and then leave anytime you choose. It’s precisely the same as a typical office conversation.

It has the capacity to accommodate up to 50 people at a time. That is appropriate since any amount larger than that produces a throng, with everyone talking over one another and no production at the conclusion of the session.

How can I use Slack huddle vs call in Windows 11?

1. Start a huddle

Open a channel or DM, and you’ll find a headphone icon that you can toggle at the left bottom of the sidebar. After you toggle it, the huddle will start.
Next to the toggle, you have three buttons which can close your microphone, share your screen, and add participants to the call.
To close the huddle, simply click the same headphone toggle as in the first step. That’s it!

Huddles are as spontaneous as you can get. Your coworkers will see when you or another coworker had started a huddle.

2. Start a call

Open a channel or a DM, then click on the channel’s name, or person’s name, in the conversation’s header.
Now under their name you will find the button Start a call. Click on it to call the person, or people.
During the call, you will be prompted with a new window from which you can mute your microphone, turn on your webcam, share your screen and even send reactions. At the left-top corner you can also add more people to the call.
To leave the call simply click on the Leave button.

And that’s it! Calls are more complex than huddles, they allow you to open your webcam and share reactions with your coworkers.

Can my employer read my Slack messages?

When you use a company-provided digital device or work platform, your employer can easily monitor everything you do on that device or platform, including the emails, instant messages, and texts you send and receive.

It’s easy to see how employees could come to the incorrect conclusion that because they’re using Slack, the popular instant-messaging workplace collaboration platform, their direct messages (DMs) are only visible to individuals in their small user group.

Although Slack, which stands for Searchable Log of All Conversations and Knowledge, was originally intended to be a tool for team members to communicate with one another, it has evolved into a more social platform as well.

However, this does not imply that it does not gather a significant amount of data about you. The information that it collects will either be one that has been willingly provided to it or information that has been automatically created as a result of simply using it.

In addition, you should think about whether Slack is the best platform for the communications you’ll be sending. In most cases, if you wouldn’t say anything out loud in the presence of a coworker, you shouldn’t be posting it in there.

Even private channels and direct messages (DMs) could have their contents revealed at some point during a legal case or other similar forms of investigation.

For those occasions when you really need to send that scathing message, it may be worth considering using another, encrypted platform, or just not saying it at all, during these moments of remote working.

If you would like to use a more encryption-focused messaging app on your PC, we recommend you take a look at how to access Signal in Windows 11.

Alternatively, you should check out our simple guide on how to use Microsoft Teams in Windows 11 as its popularity has been growing over time amongst people.

And lastly, if you are now wondering how you can boost your privacy, read our article on five of the best security features in Windows 11 to assess what you will need on top of them.

Let us know in the comments section below if this article was helpful for you and whether you prefer huddles over calls in Slack. Thanks for reading!

5 Best Open Source Software For Enterprise Network Security

Posted on January 30, 2023June 12, 2025 by Claudiu Andone

Open-source software is the core concept for development because it is free to modify and adapt to your needs. And nothing is more configurable than network security software. Here, you will find the best open-source tools for enterprise network security.

Why would I choose open-source software?

Cybersecurity tools protect enterprises from all threats and open-source software is a low-budget, flexible solution for that.

However, you will need to have a strong team with high technical expertise to configure and implement the solution.

We have chosen the tools below based on their features and readiness in terms of network security and integrations.

What are the best open-source network security tools?

Wazuh – Best network privacy security

If you’re looking for the best open-source network security tool, the answer is Wazuh.

Of course, it’s an open-source solution that ensures protection for workloads across on-premises, virtualized, and cloud-based environments.

In other words, it’s an enterprise-level tool for both Cloud and endpoint security. Its agents for Windows, Linux macOS, Solaris, AIX, and HP-UX systems are capable of detecting any anomaly or rule-based transgression.

And it does that by scanning all the network components and their logs, to provide information for the central manager that will analyze and store it.

As a change in file content, attributes and permissions are viewed as privacy threats, Wazuh constantly monitors any such modifications.

However, it doesn’t just alert you, it’s also able to block access to the affected system or execute commands to remedy the situation.

Another strong advantage for Wazuh is the list of integrations with other services and tools such as YARA, AlienVault, Amazon Macie, VirusTotal, and many more.

The solution is free so that you can implement it immediately but if you need technical assistance, you will have to pay a fee.

Let’s review some of its key features:

Analyzes data received from the Windows, Linux macOS, Solaris, AIX, and HP-UX systems agents and processes it using threat intelligence
Review regulatory compliance, vulnerabilities, file integrity, configuration assessment, and not only Cloud security but Container security as well (for Docker hosts and Kubernetes notes and down to the container level itself)
Web user interface for data visualization, analysis, and management
Advanced threat intelligence features
Malware detection and log data analysis

Wazuh

Protect your network environment with a complete XDR and SIEM network cybersecurity solution.

Free Visit Website

AlienVault OSSIM – Great SIEM solution

The OSSIM acronym from AlienVault OSSIM stands for Open Source Security Information and Event Management.

Compared to Wazuh, which also has XDR components to fight off the attacks, this solution only has SIEM features.

That means, it can detect network events and alert you so you can make the necessary changes to resolve the possible issue.

In short, AlienVault OSSIM offers asset discovery, vulnerability assessment, intrusion detection, behavioral monitoring, and SIEM event correlation.

The software is based on the proprietary Open Threat Exchange (OTX) that involves users contributing and receiving real-time information about malicious hosts.

Here are some of its most important features:

Monitors on-premises physical and virtual environments
Asset discovery and inventory
Extensive vulnerability assessment
Powered by Open Threat Exchange (OTX)
Community support via product forums

⇒ Get AlienVault OSSIM

OpenEDR – Ideal for endpoint malware protection

OpenEDR is a free, open-source endpoint detection and response software. It provides real-time analytic detection with Mitre ATT&CK visibility.

It basically offers event correlation and root cause analysis of malicious threat activity and behaviors to help you protect your network.

One of the best advantages of OpenEDR is that it can be deployed on any endpoint environment and has a cloud-based management console.

And if you want to build integrations for it, it’s as simple as using its GitHub source code.

Let’s review some of its key features:

Enable continuous and comprehensive endpoint monitoring
Correlate and visualize endpoint security data
Perform malware analysis, anomalous behavior tracking, and in-depth attack investigations
Enact remediations and harden security postures to reduce risk on endpoints
Stop attempted attacks, lateral movement, and breaches

⇒ Get OpenEDR

Metasploit – Great for network penetration testing

If you have a strong IT management team, Metasploit can be an excellent tool to test your network vulnerability.

The software can be used to run security assessments, anticipate attacks and improve overall cybersecurity awareness.

A great advantage is that it is very flexible. You can install it on Windows (64-bit), macOS, and Linux workstations.

Moreover, you will find ready-to-use installers for fast implementation. And then, Metasploit can automate almost all the phases of a penetration test, starting with exploit tactics and ending by collecting evidence.

Here are some of its best features:

Extensive penetration tests
Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems
Great implementation flexibility
Easy to deploy and use

⇒ Get Metaexploit

Nmap – Good for network scanning

Besides appearing in Matrix Reloaded and Ocean’s 8 as a hacking tool, Nmap is actually a network mapping and visualization tool.

Network administrators can use it also for network inventory, managing service upgrade schedules, and monitoring host or service uptime.

Nmap uses raw IP packets to identify which hosts are available on the network, what services are offering, what OSes they are running, and a lot more.

The tools can scan large networks very fast, and runs on all major computer operating systems. You will find official binary packages for Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X.

It comes as a command line terminal but you may also install an advanced GUI and results viewer called Zenmap.

There are also other integrations available such as Ncat (a flexible data transfer, redirection, and debugging tool), Ndiff (for comparing scan results), and Nping (a packet generation and response analysis tool.

Check out its key features below:

Supports dozens of advanced techniques for mapping out networks filled with IP filters, firewalls, routers, and other obstacles
Scans huge networks of literally hundreds of thousands of machines
Most operating systems are supported, including Linux, Microsoft Windows, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, Solaris, IRIX, Mac OS X, HP-UX, NetBSD, Sun OS, Amiga, and more

⇒ Get Nmap

Cyberglobal – Honorable Mention

Cyberglobal is a team of security experts specially created to enhance the security of corporate systems. They employ state-of-the-art technology and a 24/7 Security Operation Center that allows them to be ahead of the most malicious factors that will target your enterprise.

Cyberglobal can provide you with powerful penetration testing services, in order to identify the vulnerabilities of your system and help you respond to threats in the best way.

You can run tests for web application, cloud, external, and internal networks testing, and even simulate attacks with the help of Red Team Exercises, which will create sophisticated attack scenarios, in order to provide a realistic assessment of your security.

This concludes our selection of the best open-source network security software for your enterprise.

We hope that our article helped you select the right tool for your needs and that now you have broadened your choices.

You might also be interested to check our list of the best open-source antiviruses for your system.

If you have any other suggestions of software that fits this category, let us know about them in the comments section below.

A Workstation is Out of Compliance: How to Force Policy Updates

Posted on January 30, 2023October 4, 2023 by Loredana Harsana

Your workstation compliance policy should always be up to date to avoid risking your data. Workstation compliance is critical for two reasons.

First, it protects your data. An out-of-compliance workstation could carry malware or malicious code that might mess up your data.

Second, workstation compliance helps to protect your company’s reputation. If a workstation is out of compliance, it could cause a data breach or other incidents that might damage your company’s reputation.

To learn more about updating your policy, read our related guide on how to fix Diagnostic Policy Service high CPU usage in Windows 11.

What command prompts would you use to ensure policies are up to date?

1. Use Windows PowerShell or Windows Terminal

Press the Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the displayed list. On Windows 11, you may use Windows terminal (Admin).
Type this command and press Enter: gpupdate/force
Reboot your computer to apply all the new updates.

2. Use the Group Policy Management console

Press the Windows + R on your keyboard to start the Run console.
Type gpedit.msc and press OK or hit Enter.
If you’re an admin managing a network, you may click on the Group Policy Management, right-click on a group or terminals, and select Group Policy Update.
If you’re an administrator of a terminal, you may update the policies for the users by updating the policies from the User Configuration section.

How do you ensure all policies are up to date?

Unfortunately, even if your software tells you that all the policies have been updated, you can’t be sure until you test at least one terminal in a group.

Here are some guidelines on how to ensure that the policies are updated:

Review your company’s compliance policy – Make sure you are always up to date with any changes and enforce them on all the terminals
Check each workstation to see if it is compliant – You can do this manually use a compliance tool
Take action to remediate any non-compliant workstations – This may involve installing updates, applying patches, or reconfiguring the workstation

Fortunately, you can check our list including the best network management software. Most of the tools also have advanced features for automatic policy updates.

How do you improve compliance in the workplace?

➡ Communicate policies to employees – Employees should be made aware of all policies and should be allowed to ask questions and provide feedback

➡ Train employees on policies: This can be done through regular training sessions or an e-learning module

➡ Review compliance regularly: Compliance should be reviewed regularly to identify areas that need improvement

Keeping your workstation policy up to date and in compliance is important. If your workstation is out of compliance, you can force policy updates by following the steps in this article.

Doing so will help to keep your workstation and your company’s data safe and secure.

You might also be interested in consulting our list of the best SNMP monitoring tools for Windows 10/11 because they will help a lot with this process.

Make sure to write any other questions, suggestions, or concerns in the comments section below.

Failed To Load PDF Document Error in Chrome: How do I fix it?

Posted on January 30, 2023September 5, 2024 by Milan Stanojevic

Failed to load PDF document is an error that is most common in Chrome. However, in some cases, this error has been spotted in other tools that allow you to directly load a PDF file, such as Mozilla Firefox, Opera, and even Outlook mail client.

PDF being such a popular format, it has become quite rooted in our daily routine, be it at work or at home. This failed to load PDF document error will prevent you from directly viewing documents in your browser.

These are some of the most common scenarios you might encounter when a PDF has failed to load:

PDF failed to load with result: corrupted
an error occurred while loading the PDF
an error was encountered while processing the file. some features might not work.
Failed to download PDF document
failed to load PDF document in Chrome

Why can’t I load my PDF?

If you get the Failed to load PDF document error message in Chrome or other browsers, their built-in viewer is likely unable to open a secured PDF.

To fix the issue, update your browser to the latest version or try using a dedicated third-party PDF viewer.

This error could also be caused by some misconfigured setting or an issue with the browser. Several users also reported that the Send URLs of pages you visit to Google option in Sync and Google services was the culprit, and disabling it did the trick.

The solutions listed here should help you no matter the problem.

How do I fix a PDF that won’t load?

1. Change PDF settings in Chrome

Open Chrome, paste the following path in the address bar, and hit Enter: chrome://settings/content/pdfDocuments
Select the Download PDFs option here.

According to users, if you’re getting the won’t open PDF file error message in Chrome, the problem might be your content settings.

By default, Chrome is set to open PDF files internally, but you might be able to circumvent this issue simply by choosing to open PDF files in a dedicated PDF viewer.

Downloading a file instead of opening it directly in your browser is also great if you want to make sure the file is not damaged or broken.

If the file you try to open is corrupted there are some ways you can fix corrupted or damaged PDFs on Windows.

2. Make sure that Google Chrome is up to date

Click the ellipsis near the top-right corner, and hover the cursor over Help.
Select About Google Chrome.
A new tab will appear and show the current version of the browser installed.
In addition, Chrome will now check for the latest updates and install them automatically in the background.

According to users, sometimes, Failed to load PDF document in Windows 11 can appear if your browser is out of date. Certain glitches can appear once in a while, but the best way is to update your browser.

Google Chrome automatically downloads the missing updates in the background, but sometimes you might skip one for various reasons. Once the updates are installed, check if the problem is still there.

3. Try using third-party PDF readers

Sometimes, this error message can be related only to your browser. Although reading a PDF file in your browser is the most straightforward solution, it’s better to use a dedicated PDF reader.

DocHub is a great PDF editor, and it offers many advanced features that you won’t find in your browser.

You can quickly view, create, edit, and convert your PDFs thanks to this excellent easy-to-use online platform.

Moreover, you can customize the content and layouts of your PDF documents and secure them with advanced 256-bit SSL encryption.

If you keep getting the error failed to load PDF document in Chrome, perhaps this is a perfect time to consider using a dedicated PDF reader.

⇒ Get DocHub

4. Remove problematic extensions

Click the ellipsis in the top-right corner, hover the cursor over More tools, and select Extensions from the menu.
You should now see a list of all extensions installed on the browser.
To disable an extension, click the toggle next to its name. Repeat this for all extensions on the list.

Some extensions might interfere with your browser and cause Failed to load PDF document messages while viewing certain files.

Once you disable all extensions, restart Chrome. If the issue doesn’t appear, it’s certain that one of your extensions is causing it. Enable the extensions one by one until you manage to recreate the problem.

Once you find the problematic extension, remove it and check if that permanently solves the Failed to load PDF document error on Salesforce.

5. Clear cache

Launch Chrome, and press Ctrl + Shift + Del to open the Clear browsing data box.
Now set the Time range to All time, and tick all the options here.
Finally, click on Clear Data to remove the cache and cookies.

Your browser stores all sorts of files on the PC in order to display certain websites faster, but sometimes cache files can get corrupted, and this leads to various errors.

If you’re getting the error message, perhaps the issue is related to your cache, and in order to fix it, we advise you to clear it.

6. Reset Google Chrome

Launch Chrome, paste the following path in the address bar, and hit Enter:chrome://settings/reset
Click on Restore settings to their original defaults.
Now, click the Reset settings button to confirm.

According to users, sometimes, certain settings in your browser can cause this issue to appear. In case you can’t find the problematic setting, you can reset your browser to the default.

By doing so, you’ll remove all extensions, settings, and browsing history. In case you want to preserve some of your data, such as bookmarks, you should back them up or enable syncing.

After you reset the browser, check if the problem is still there. To restore your settings and browsing history, be sure to sign in to your Google Account, and all your data will be restored.

7. Reinstall Google Chrome

Press Windows + R to launch the Run command, enter appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click on OK.
Select Google Chrome, click the Uninstall button, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Once done, go to Chrome’s official website, download it, and complete the installation process.

If you have already tried to reset Google Chrome without success, you might want to try reinstalling it. Sometimes your installation can get corrupted, leading to this and many other problems.

To fix the issue, it’s advised that you reinstall Chrome completely. There are several ways to do that, and the best way to do it is to use uninstaller software.

Uninstaller software removes all files and registry entries associated with Chrome, ensuring that leftover files don’t interfere with future installations.

Once you remove Chrome, download, and install the latest version, the error will be fixed.

8. Use an alternative browser with PDF viewer

If nothing else on this list works you can always try using another browser that has a built-in PDF Viewer. Nowadays most browsers come fully equipped so it is not hard to find one for this task.

The easiest choice would be Microsoft Edge, as it is the default browser recommended by Microsoft. Due to this, many systems come with this browser already installed, so switching to it should be easy.

As with all modern browsers, Microsoft Edge will allow you to import your settings and bookmarks, making you feel right at home in no time.

The methods listed here would also work if you encounter the Failed to load PDF document on Outlook. Also, find out what to do if you cannot save PDF after editing.

If you’re a developer, you might’ve encountered an error PDF validation broken pipe message, but we have an article that covers this issue, so don’t miss it.

Which solution worked for you? Let us know in the comments section below!

3 Best XDR and SIEM Software for Network Cybersecurity

Posted on January 30, 2023October 11, 2025 by Claudiu Andone

XDR (Extended Detection and Response) and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) (SIEM) are cybersecurity solutions. They protect your endpoints and network from a wide range of threats, so you really need XDR and SIEM software to monitor your network and devices.

What is the difference between XDR and SIEM?

XDR and SIEM both extract and analyze data from multiple sources, including system and software file logs to detect any possible cyber threats.

However, while SIEM solutions only alert the responsible party about the intrusion, XDR includes advanced cybersecurity functionality to fix the problem.

What is better, XDR or SIEM?

Obviously, as XDR is capable of neutralizing threats and attacks throughout entire networks, it’s a lot more efficient.

As we cleared out what are these solutions, let’s see what are the best XDR and SIEM software for your enterprise network.

What are the best XDR and SIEM solutions for your network?

Wazuh – The best XDR and SIEM tool

Wazuh is a unified XDR and SIEM protection for endpoints and cloud workloads that offer the best match for network cybersecurity.

The key feature of this solution is that it unifies Cloud and endpoint protection. It secures public clouds, private clouds, and on-premise data centers at the same time.

Wazuh comes with lightweight agents for Windows, Linux macOS, Solaris, AIX, and HP-UX systems that detect hidden files, cloaked processes, unregistered network listeners, and more.

The tool scans the systems and logs, then sends the data to a central manager to be analyzed and stored.

It also monitors file integrity, so it identifies any changes in content or its attributes and permissions.

Of course, system and application configurations are monitored as well to detect compliance with security policies.

And if any anomalies are detected, Wazuh takes action against any active threats. For instance, it can block access to a system or be used to execute commands or system queries.

The solution is strong by itself, but it can be integrated with many other services and tools. The list includes YARA, AlienVault, Amazon Macie, VirusTotal, and a lot more.

Nevertheless, Wazuh is free and open source so you can test and implement it immediately. However, you may pay for technical assistance with any aspects of implementation.

Let’s review some of its best features below:

Analyzes data received from the Windows, Linux macOS, Solaris, AIX, and HP-UX systems agents and processes it using threat intelligence
Web user interface for data visualization, analysis, and management
You can review regulatory compliance, vulnerabilities, file integrity, configuration assessment results, cloud infrastructure events, and security incidents across containers, among others. Besides, container workloads are protected at two levels: Infrastructure and container level
Keeps track of data and application configurations to ensure they meet your security rules, standards, and/or hardening guidelines
It protects public clouds, private clouds, and on-premise data centers

Wazuh

This XDR and SIEM network cybersecurity solution offers complete protection for endpoints and cloud workloads.

Free Visit website

Cynet 360 AutoXDR – Easy to use

Cynet is an XDR platform that offers effective protection and visibility across all your network, including endpoints, users, and SaaS applications.

The platform provides automated visibility, prevention, detection, correlation, and investigation and response through a single platform.

It does so by combining the action of four major interconnected components.

On the agent part, Cynet Protector comes with sensor technologies to detect and prevent threats across the environment.

It comes with EPP, EDR, Deception capabilities, network detection rules, user behavior analytics rules, threat intelligence, and a lot more.

The next component, Cynet Correlator, analyzes and correlates all data, including the ones from third-party sensors, and logs data into actionable incidents.

Finally, Cynet Responder assesses the priorities and produces the threat response and remediation actions across the entire environment.

A complementary component is CyOps, which is a 24/7 MDR service that provides monitoring, investigation, on-demand analysis, incident response, and threat hunting.

Let’s go through some of its most important features:

Collect and correlate alerts and related data to identify suspicious or problematic activity
Fully automate threat investigation and remediation
Ensures that your SaaS applications aren’t introducing security risks
24/7 complementary MDR service
Easy-to-use platform for end-to-end protection

Cynet 360 AutoXDR

Respond immediately to any threats or vulnerabilities with a solution that provides all the tools.

Free trial Visit website

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus – Great vulnerability detection

If you’re looking for an XDR solution that can fight back network intrusions, ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus offers clear solutions.

It is an enterprise-level tool that prioritizes threats and vulnerabilities and also offers built-in patch management.

The tool scans and identifies the vulnerabilities of all your local and remote office endpoints but also roaming devices.

Then, it analyzes and prioritizes areas that are more likely to be exploited by an attacker and covers the loopholes.

In order to preempt any such exploitations, you can use ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus to download, test, and deploy patches automatically to your systems.

That includes Windows, Mac, Linux, and over 500 third-party applications by using an integrated patching module.

Let’s review its key features:

Obtain details on the cause, impact, and remedies of web server security flaws
Deploy pre-built, tested scripts without waiting for a patch to secure your network from zero-day vulnerabilities
Identifies unsafe software and uninstalls it from your endpoints in no time
Audit and maintain your systems in line with over 75 CIS benchmarks
CIS and STIG security guidelines compliance

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus

Fight back against network intrusions and deploy preemptive patches with this powerful software.

Check Price Visit Website

That was our selection of the best XDR and SIEM software tools to protect your enterprise network.

All the solutions above work for small to large businesses and offer configuration flexibility.

That being said, you might also be interested in our list of the best network security antiviruses for your business.

Which XDR solution did you choose? Tell us all about your selection criteria in the comments section below.

Printer Unable to Convert PostScript File: 5 Easy Fixes

Posted on January 30, 2023September 20, 2025 by Madalina Dinita

Sometimes your Mac computer might not have the ability to convert PostScript files in a way that can be read by the printer. That’s why when trying to print PDF using Adobe Reader, you are getting this printer error:

Stopped – Unable to convert PostScript file.

You could obviously try to restart the computer and unplug the printer from the electrical socket for a few seconds, just to plug it back in. However, this workaround isn’t always successful and you might be after a permanent solution.

Because this problem can be rather frustrating, we’ve created a step-by-step guide with everything you need to do to fix it. That being said, continue reading the article below to find a solution to your problem.

What can I do to fix the unable to convert postscript file error?

1. Try to reset the printing system

Go to Apple menu > System Preferences.
Click Print & Scan.
Right-click the blank space in the Printers list.
Hit the Reset printing system option next from the menu that appears.
Click Reset in the confirmation window.
Enter your administrator username and password if asked.
You may need to wait for a few minutes until the printing system is reset and the Printers list becomes empty.
Restart your computer.
Up next, return to System preferences > Print & Scan.
Click the Add button (+) at the bottom of the list.
Look for the name of your printer from the printer list and select it.
Then, click Add to add your printer.
Click Print Using, then select the name of your printer.

2. Print the file from Acrobat or Preview

Open the Advanced menu in Acrobat print dialog. Then, waste no more time and select Print As Image.

Even though the quality of the printed document may differ as compared to regular printed files, it’s a compromise worthy to be considered when resetting the printing system failed.

3. Check for Acrobat updates

No less important, open Acrobat, then find your way into the Help menu and check for any updates. Follow the steps in the Updater window to download and install the latest updates.

Updating Acrobat is essential when it comes to making it compatible with your Mac OS. Once the updates are installed, try to print again and see if the issue persists.

4. Modify the PostScript Options

You could also try to bring up the print dialog, click on the Advanced button, and then modify the PostScript Options at the top of the dialog. Any difference now?

5. Remove and reinstall the latest printer drivers

From the Apple menu, select System Preferences.
Then, select Print & Scan.
A list of printers with drivers installed on your computer appears next, so click the printer you want to remove from the computer to highlight it.
Click the Remove (-) button below the list of printers to remove the printer information from the list.
Click OK.
You may now close the Print & Scan window.
Then, from the menu bar in the Finder, enter into Go > Go to Folder.
While here, click Library, Printers, PPDs, Contents, and Resources.
A list of the printer drivers should appear on your Mac. It’s time to click and drag the name of your printer model’s driver into the trash can in your dock.
Up next, press and hold the Control button on your keyboard while clicking the trash can icon in the dock and select Empty Trash.
Restart the computer for the changes to take place.
Then, go to the appropriate Support Printer model page and download the latest driver for your printer.

On the same note, you have the alternative of managing drivers easily on your device. Using dedicated software to update the printer drivers ensure automatic install of the latest versions, without system issues.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

Your printer’s drivers offer a world of options that you might not even be aware of. When getting this error message, don’t hesitate to remove the drivers by using the procedure described above. Then, reinstall the latest ones and check if the issue is solved now.

We hope these procedures helped you. If the error message continues to appear, check the printer‘s documentation or contact the printer manufacturer for support.

Download and Install Bcm20702a0 Driver in Windows 10

Posted on January 30, 2023April 25, 2024 by Claire Moraa

Drivers need to be updated regularly as they are essential parts required for the proper functioning of your PC. With the modern hardware available today, some drivers will come pre-installed in your PC because they are universal to the majority of devices.

The BCM20702A0 driver in Windows 10 is a very important driver, as it allows your device to communicate with the computer. If you have Windows 10 on your computer, then you definitely need to download the right version of the BCM20702A0 driver.

What is the Broadcom BCM20702A0 driver on Windows 10?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In order to use Bluetooth on your computer, you will need to install the corresponding drivers. This allows your OS to recognize the device and install all of the necessary software drivers needed for it to work properly.

The Broadcom BCM20702A0 driver is a component of the Bluetooth device, which is responsible for enabling the wireless connection between your computer and other devices that use Bluetooth technology.

This component is installed automatically in earlier versions of Windows but you can also download it since it works with most PCs.

How do I get Windows 10 to recognize my Bluetooth dongle?

In order to use a Bluetooth dongle, you will need a Bluetooth receiver. The receiver plugs into your computer and acts as a bridge between your device and the computer. The good news is that most computers come with built-in Bluetooth. The bad news is that it’s not always enabled.

Below is how to easily get your Bluetooth dongle recognized:

Check for compatibility – Make sure your Bluetooth device is compatible with Windows 10. If it isn’t, you won’t be able to get it working with the operating system.
Switch USB ports – Some USB ports in your PC may not be working so trying different ports may help with better recognition.
Keep the device in range – Sometimes Bluetooth devices will begin to disconnect when they’re not within range. This can be because the device is too far away or because there are too many obstacles between them.
Uninstalling/reinstalling the drivers – If you have an old computer, you probably still have the same drivers that came with it. Uninstalling old drivers may help with recognition.
Disconnect other devices – Make sure the device is turned on and not paired with another device. If it’s connected to anything else, Bluetooth won’t be able to detect the device.

How do I download the BCM20702A0 driver?

1. Download from the manufacturer’s site

It is possible to download and install the BCM20702A0 driver on your computer if it is unavailable since not all PCs come pre-installed with the driver.

The BCM20702A0 driver Windows 10 can be downloaded from different websites and platforms. But it is essential that you get an authentic and genuine version of this file.

2. Use Device Manager

Click on the taskbar and select Device Manager.
Locate the BCM20702A0 driver, right-click on it and select Update Driver Software.
Select Search automatically for updated drivers.

3. Use a third-party tool

If you do not want to download the BCM20702A0 driver from its manufacturer’s website, use a third-party driver updating tool instead. It allows you to download all necessary device drivers automatically without visiting any websites manually.

These tools can scan your computer for missing or outdated drivers automatically. Then they will download and install the best-matched drivers to your PC. When you use it to update the BCM20702A0 driver, you can enjoy a more stable and faster PC experience.

Hopefully, this article has been helpful in instructing you on how to download and install the BCM20702A0 driver in Windows 10.

You should be able to update the driver and access features for your device, help improve its stability and compatibility or resolve some issues that might be causing problems with your device.

The BCM20702A0 driver is not the only essential driver you need. Be sure to check out our article on how to download the FTDI drivers and learn more about their use on your device.

Don’t forget to check out our collection of driver updater tools that will make the work easier for you especially if you’re not big on manual updates.

Let us know if you have been successful in downloading and updating this driver in the comment section below.

5 Best Cyber-Security Tools For Complete Network Protection

Posted on January 30, 2023October 6, 2025 by Claudiu Andone

Regarding your network environment, there is no effort spared for its protection. Luckily there are some powerful cyber-security solutions out there that can help you with all the tools you need for that.

In this article, you will find the best software tailored to any enterprise size and network.

How can cyber-security solutions protect my network?

Managing a small network makes it relatively easy to check on each asset individually. However, when you’re dealing with over 10 endpoints and other servers and equipment, things can get complicated.

Whether you need on-premise or cloud protection, patching your systems, or simply ensuring authorized entries, you need a network cyber-security tool to manage the workload.

We recommend reading our article about cyberattack statistics to get the complete picture of the threats you are facing.

With such management tools, you can automate all security events seamlessly from a single console.

What are the best network cyber-security solutions?

Wazuh – The best network vulnerability detection

When it comes to network security, Wazuh delivers the best approach to cyber-security. It protects
workloads across on-premises, virtualized, containerized, and cloud-based environments from a single console.

Wazuh has lightweight agents for Windows, Linux, macOS, Solaris, AIX, and HP-UX systems that detect any unusual or rule-breaking behavior on the system.

That includes cloaked processes, hidden files, unregistered network listeners, and many more security issues.

After it gathers information from the system and app logs, the software sends the data to a central manager to be analyzed and stored.

The apps and files are monitored constantly to detect any configuration or attribute changes and to supervise compliance with the security policies you have enforced.

After detecting such problems, Wazuh can block access to a system, execute predetermined commands, or make further queries on the affected systems.

The software is open source, so you can modify it to your needs, but it also supports a wide array of integrations such as AlienVault, Amazon Macie, VirusTotal, and a lot more.

Let’s review some of its best features below:

Ready-made Windows, Linux macOS, Solaris, AIX, and HP-UX systems agents
Advanced threat intelligence technology
Web user interface for data visualization, analysis, and platform management
Cloud and Container security, including Docker hosts and Kubernetes nodes and down to the container level itself
Extensive reports for compliance, vulnerability, and file integrity
It protects public clouds, private clouds, and on-premise data centers

Wazuh

Get complete endpoints and cloud workloads protection from an open-source tool with many integrations.

Free Visit website

Acronis Cyber Protect – Extensive network security features

Acronis Cyber Protect is more than fit for this purpose if you’re looking for backup and anti-malware for all your devices.

It comes with AI-based ransomware protection and integrated patch management tools, so you don’t need to worry about any loopholes in your systems.

The solution can also provide vulnerability assessment and will allow your network manager to control the endpoints remotely.

Therefore, you will have full control of all your network environment and assets from a single console and fend off any cyber threats.

Here are just some of the best features of Acronis Cyber Protect:

Full antivirus and antimalware protection with AI-based ransomware protection
Integrated patch management and backup
Intuitive web-based interface with multi-tenant administration
Remote desktop capabilities
Multi-level encryption

Acronis Cyber Protect

Acronis Cyber Protect will ensure that all of your enterprise data is safe from both internal and external threats!

Free trial Visit website

Security Event Manager – Great log monitoring

Detecting failed logons and firewall events is a big part of network security and Security Event Manager covers that area very well.

It comes with hundreds of pre-built connectors that gather logs from various sources, compiles their data, and gathers them in a central location for you to investigate potential threats, prepare for audits, and store logs.

Basically you can create any network or user-based rules and program the too to respond accordingly.

For instance, you can respond immediately by blocking IPs, changing privileges, disabling accounts, blocking USB devices, terminating applications, and a lot more.

Here are some of its key features:

Advanced pfSense firewall log analyzer
Keep track of logon and logoff events with a centralized monitor
Advanced compliance reporting with predefined templates for PCI DSS, HIPAA, SOX, and more
Cross site scripting prevention tool
Blocks IPs, change privileges, disable accounts, block USB devices, and more

⇒ Get Security Event Manager

Endpoint Central MSP – Great patch management system

Endpoint Central MSP is a holistic endpoint management software for MSPs that helps you administrate desktops, servers, laptops, and mobile devices from a central location.

This tool comes with 50 pre-defined configurations and over 100s of scripts that will allow you to manage any and all types of customer environments.

You will be able to track granular asset data for hardware and software and pull critical information including usage statistics, blacklisted applications, warranty, licenses, etc.

And if you need to cater to a specific endpoint, you can do so with remote desktop features that include video and audio call support, file transfer, shortcuts, session recording, and more.

Here are some of its key features:

Automate patch deployment for over 850 first and third-party applications
Remotely deploy applications to client computers
Manage Windows, servers, Android, iOS, and Chrome devices
Manage up to 25 endpoints with the free version
Restrict and control the usage of USB devices

Endpoint Central MSP

Manage your endpoints securely and provide backup and patching to all network devices.

Free Visit website

Perimeter 81 – Great network VPN

Perimeter 81 is an enterprise-level security platform you can use to monitor all traffic and network activity.

The tool comes with a Software-Defined Perimeter that allows you to restrict network access and provide secure channels to the shared systems.

With multi-layered security tools, including always-on encryption, two-factor authentication, and single sign-on, Perimeter 81 prevents data loss and unauthorized access to your network.

The devices are verified before accessing the network and the resources within, which translates to increased security.

Perimeter 81 is also a cloud-based VPN solution that is scalable to your growing network.

Check out these Perimeter 81 main features:

Secure remote access
OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, and PPTP security protocols
Integration with all major cloud services and on-prem resources
Compatible with all major platforms, including Windows, Mac OS, iOS, and Android
30-day money-back guaranteed policy

Perimeter 81

Secure your network with this professional enterprise VPN solution.

Check Price Visit Website

This concludes our list of the best network cyber-security tools for enterprise networks. While some of them focus on vulnerability detection, others come with active protection and backup.

All you need to do is to assess the needed level of security and features to make the right decision.

You might also be interested in our selection of the best enterprise cybersecurity tools in terms of antivirus and backup features.

Have you decided on a solution from our list? Tell us how you made your decision in the comments section below.

Full Fix: Default printer keeps changing in Windows 10/11

Posted on January 30, 2023September 11, 2025 by Madalina Dinita

Using more than one printer is extremely annoying when the default printer keeps changing all the time. Before hitting the print button, you always have to check the current printer available, so you don’t use the wrong printer.

If you want to prevent your default printer from changing, you can use one of the workarounds listed below.

Why does my default printer keep changing?

Below are some of the causes of the default printer keeps changing issue:

Wrong settings: One of the most causes of this issue is wrong settings on your PC. To get past this, you need to make changes to the Registry Editor.
Outdated PC: In some cases, this issue can be caused by an outdated operating system. You need to update your PC to the latest version to fix this.
Faulty drivers: Your printer drivers are important to the effortless operation of your printers. So, when they are outdated or faulty, they can cause this issue. The solution to this is to reinstall or update your driver.

Speaking of printer problems, here are some issues that users reported:

Default printer keeps changing Windows 7, 8.1, 10 – This issue can appear on any version of Windows, but even if you don’t use Windows 10, you should be able to use most of our solutions.
Windows 7 default printer keeps changing to Adobe PDF – If this problem happens on your PC, you just need to set your default printer and the issue should be resolved.
Default printer keeps changing randomly, after reboot, log off – According to users, their default printer keeps switching after reboot. This can be caused by your drivers, so be sure to update them.
Default printer keeps switching, reverting back – Sometimes this issue can occur due to certain system bugs. However, you should be able to fix that by installing the latest updates.

Default printer keeps changing on Windows 10, how to fix it?

1. Turn off the option Let Windows manage your default printer

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and click on the Devices icon.
Click on Printers & scanners on the left side and turn off Let Windows manage my default printer.

By default, Windows 10 automatically manages your default printer. If your default printer keeps changing, you might want to prevent Windows from managing your default printer.

Many Windows 10 criticized Microsoft for adding such a feature. They suggested that a drop-down menu would have been much more useful, as it would have easily allowed them to select the printer of their choice.

2. Change the printer settings from the Registry Editor

Press the Windows key + R, type regedit, and click OK.
Go to the path below in the left pane: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows
Select LegacyDefaultPrinterMode and set the value to 1.

If your default printer keeps changing, the issue might be related to your registry. However, you can fix the problem by making some Registry Editor changes.

3. Uninstall the printer software for all printers

Press Windows key + X and choose Device Manager from the results list.
Locate your printer driver, right-click it and choose Uninstall device from the menu. If you can’t find your printer, make sure that you reveal hidden devices.
When the confirmation dialog appears, select Delete driver software for this device and click Uninstall.

If the two solutions listed above don’t work, uninstall the printers’ drivers and install the latest driver versions again. To uninstall the printer driver, follow the steps above.

After that, restart your PC, and the default driver will be installed again. If the default driver doesn’t work, your next step would be to install the latest printer driver.

To do that, you need to visit your printer manufacturer’s website and find the latest drivers for your model. After downloading and installing the latest driver, check if the problem is resolved.

If you’re having trouble finding the appropriate driver, you can always use professional tools to download the missing drivers automatically.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Remove old printer connections from your registry

Start Registry Editor.
Go to the path below in the left pane: HKEY_USERSUSERS_SID_HEREPrintersConnections
Be sure to select your own user SID. Usually, your SID is the one that’s the longest, so be sure to select it.
You should see some old printer connections. Delete them all.
Now, go to HKEY_USERSUSERS_SID_HEREPrintersSettings key and delete the old printer settings.

If you used multiple printers with your PC, some old entries might still be in your registry. If your default printer keeps changing, the old entries in your registry might be the problem.

However, you can fix the issue simply by removing the problematic entries from your registry. Once you remove them, check if the problem with your default printer is resolved.

5. Check your USB and power cable

Occasionally, issues with the default printer can occur due to problems with cables. If the default printer keeps changing on your PC, check if your cables are working properly.

Sometimes your power or USB cable might be broken, which can lead to many other problems. Carefully inspect the cables and ensure your printer is constantly connected to your PC.

If you lose a connection even for a moment, Windows will change the default printer automatically. If your cables are damaged, replace them and check if that solves your problem.

6. Set the default printer manually

Press Windows key + S, type control panel, and choose Control Panel from the list of results.
Navigate to Devices and Printers.
Select the printer you want to use as default, right-click it and choose Set as default printer from the menu.

According to users, if the default printer keeps changing, you might be able to fix the problem by manually setting the default printer.

7. Install the latest updates

Press Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
Now, go to the Update & Security section.
Click the Check for updates button.

If the default printer keeps changing on your PC, the issue might be caused by certain bugs in your system. The best way to fix this problem is to install the latest Windows updates.

By default, Windows 10 usually installs the missing updates automatically, but sometimes you might miss an update or two. However, you can check for updates manually by following the steps above.

If any updates are available, Windows will download them automatically in the background. Once the updates are downloaded, just restart your PC to install them.

8. Create a new user account

Open the Settings app and navigate to the Accounts section.
Now, navigate to the Family & other people section and choose Add someone else to this PC.
Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
Now, select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
Enter the desired username and click Next.

If you’re having issues with your printer, you might be able to fix the problem by creating a new user account.

After creating a new user account, switch to it and check if the problem is still there. If the issue doesn’t appear on the new account, you need to move your personal files to it and start using it instead of your old account.

9. Perform a System Restore

Press Windows key + S, type system restore, and choose Create a restore point.
Now click System Restore button.
When System Restore window opens, click Next.
Check Show more restore points option if available, select the desired restore point and click Next.
Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the restoration process.

If the default printer keeps changing on your PC, the problem might be caused by a recent update or change on your system. However, you can fix the problem by performing a System Restore.

Once your system is restored, check if the problem is still there.

We have come to the end of this detailed guide. We belive you should be able to fix the issue before exhausting the solutions in this guide.

Similarly, if your printer cannot be as default for some reason, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

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

How to improve LinkedIn engagement

What causes Critical error in Start Menu?

What is a critical error on a computer?

What can I do if the Start Menu is not working?

1. Enter Safe Mode

2. Uninstall Dropbox/your antivirus software

3. Temporary hide Cortana from Taskbar

4. Switch to a new admin account and delete the TileDataLayer directory

5. End Local Security Authority Process

6. Disable Internet Explorer

7. Create two new administrator accounts and transfer the Database folder

8. Make sure Windows is up to date

9. Reset Windows 10

How do I fix the Critical Error Start Menu on Windows 11?

How do I check Critical Errors in Windows 10?

Why is Windows stuck on the Please Wait screen?

What do I do if my laptop is stuck on the please wait screen?

1. Run DISM and SFC scans in Safe Mode

2. Disable Network services

3. Perform a clean boot

4. Perform a Startup Repair

How do I check if the Firewall is blocking a port?

1. Check your Firewall Settings

2. Check for Blocked Ports using Command Prompt

How to check if Windows Firewall is blocking a program?

Why is Outlook highlighting words?

What can I do if Outlook keeps highlighting words?

1. Disable joyful animations

2. Disable suggestions

How do I install I2C HID?

1. Use the manufacturer’s site

2. Use Device Manager

3. Use a third-party tool

What does TPM do?

Where can I buy a TPM chip?

How can I install Windows 11 without TPM 2.0?

1. Create a new DWORD in the Registry

2. Modify your registry from the installation media

3. Use Rufus

What do I do if the PC Health Check app is bugged?

What motherboards are Windows 11 ready?

Why should I use TPM?

How do I make my own planner pages?

What is the best program to design a planner?

Adobe Photoshop Elements – Great for professionals

Adobe Photoshop Elements

Adobe InDesign – Great for designing an original planner

Adobe InDesign

Canva – Best free planner editor

Canva

Microsoft Excel – Great for automatic calculations

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint – Vast collection of stock images and stickers

Microsoft PowerPoint

Why is Vivaldi not syncing?

Does Vivaldi sync across devices?

What can I do if Vivaldi is not syncing?

1. Update Vivaldi

2. Make sure the sync settings are in order

3. Reset remote data

4. Delete the user data folder

5. Manually sync Vivaldi

What are the best cryptocurrency price tracker apps for PC?

eToro – The best app out there

eToro

ZuluTrade – Includes other investment options

ZuluTrade

TradingView – Intuitive user interface

TradingView

Binance – One of the biggest players

Binance

Crypto Chart – Compatible with multiple devices

CryptoTracker – Best for thorough analysis

Mammon – Supports a wide of cryptocurrencies

Crypto Price Widget – For easy accessibility

Table of contents

Why the WiFi Adapter Goes Missing

How to fix Wi-Fi adapter not showing in Windows

1. Use the Internet Connections troubleshooter

2. Update the network drivers (Internet needed)