How to Get Help in Windows Keeps Popping Up: 3 Easy Fixes

Windows 10, though an advanced OS for its time, wasn’t completely free of errors. Users regularly had trouble with one thing or the other. An annoying problem encountered by many was the How to get help in Windows 10 popup.

The popup usually appears on Edge, but other browsers and even Windows, too, had the same issue. And the constant interruptions lead to users losing critical time and affecting their workflow. So, let’s find out all about it.

Why does How to get help in Windows pop-up keep appearing?

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

  • Stuck key(s): If the F1 key is stuck, that’s the reason you see the annoying How to get help in Windows 10 popup.
  • Issues with the keyboard drivers: Oftentimes, corrupt or outdated drivers make the device act weirdly, and the same applies to the keyboard.
  • Conflicting programs: Several conflicting third-party programs could also trigger the error, and you will have to identify and uninstall the app.

What can I do if the How to get help in Windows keeps popping up?

Before heading to the slightly complex solution, try these quick ones:

  • Check if the F1 key is stuck or if something is lodged under it. Also, if other keyboard shortcuts act weird, it could be that the device itself is malfunctioning.
  • Run a malware scan on the computer using the built-in Windows Security or an effective third-party antivirus capable of eliminating viruses and other threats.
  • Connect another keyboard and verify whether the problem is resolved. In case, yes, it was the keyboard that caused the How to get help in Windows 10 popup to appear, while if the problem persists, it’s a software problem.

If none work, move to the ones listed next.

1. Modify file permissions

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, paste the following path, and hit Enter:C:\Windowspath
  2. Right-click on the HelpPane.exe file, and select Properties.properties
  3. Now, head to the Security tab, and click on Advanced.advanced to fix How to get help in Windows 10
  4. Click on Change.change
  5. Now, enter your Windows username, and click on Check Names.username
  6. Once it appears, click on OK.ok
  7. Again, click Apply and then OK to save the changes.apply
  8. Now, in the Security tab, click on Edit.edit to fix How to get help in Windows 10
  9. Next, click on Add.add
  10. Again, enter the same username you used earlier, click on Check Names, and then on OK.check names
  11. Check all the permissions here, and click on OK.full permission to fix How to get help in Windows 10
  12. Click OK on all previously opened Windows for the changes to come into effect.

That’s it! Once you are done, even pressing F1 wouldn’t trigger the How to get help in Windows 10 popup to appear. If the problem persists, you will have to modify the file name as illustrated next.

2. Rename the file

  1. Locate the HelpPane.exe file, right-click on it, and choose Rename.rename to fix How to get help in Windows 10
  2. Click Continue in the confirmation prompt.continue
  3. Type HelpPane_OLD.exe and save the changes.new name

Once done, verify whether the How to get help in Windows 10 popup still appears.

3. Use a script

  1. Open a new Notepad window and paste the following script into it: @echo off taskkill /f /im HelpPane.exe takeown /f %WinDir%\HelpPane.exe icacls %WinDir%\HelpPane.exe /deny Everyone:(X)script to fix How to get help in Windows 10
  2. Next, press Ctrl + S, enter the file name as script.cmd, and click Save.script.cmd
  3. After the file is created, double-click on it to execute the script.

That’s it! One of the solutions must have fixed things when the How to get help in Windows 10 popup keeps appearing. And if you also find Get Help not working in Windows, repairing or resetting the app will do the trick!

For a step-by-step walkthrough on using and troubleshooting Microsoft’s support tool, read our full guide on the Get Help app in Windows 11. Also, while at it, find out how to speed up your Windows 10 PC.

You can also explore how remote support works in Windows by reading the Remote Help App guide which explains how Microsoft enables secure assistance across devices.

Do not forget to tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.

Microsoft’s GitHub now has over 100 million active users

GitHub has announced that over 100 million developers are making use of the platform to write code. Microsoft acquired the web-based hosting service back in 2018, spending $7.5 billion in stock.  However, the Redmond company let GitHub continue running as a single entity.

At the time of acquisition, the platform had just gained 3 million developers pushing it to 31 million active users in general. Later on, in 2019, the company set a goal and was aiming to have 100 million developers using GitHub by 2025.

This puts GitHub two years ahead of its initial goal and it is still committed to its cause, “to help bring more new developers into technology and help people work together to build the next great thing, accelerate human progress, and solve problems we don’t yet understand.”

Mid-last year, the platform launched Copilot to help developers use AI to develop and write code powered by OpenAI. However, a class action lawsuit was filed by a developer thus preventing it reach a wide audience. The lawsuit was filed on the premise that the Copilot project pirates open-source development by violating GitHub’s policies, the California Consumer Privacy Act, and DCMA 1202.

The case is still in its primary stages and the way forward is yet to be determined. GitHub has further added that it will continue to provide developers with tools and resources that will help them write code effectively and efficiently. That is, “From creating the pull request to empowering developers with AI through GitHub Copilot, everything we do has been to put the developer first.”

What Are the Signs of GPU Failure & What Can You Do?

GPU failure is a common occurrence in PCs and can happen even to the most powerful GPUs. However, there are some important signs that you should look out for if you suspect your GPU may be failing soon.

While most people don’t think about the GPU when it comes to their computer’s performance, the fact is that your GPU is one of the most important components in any computer. The signs of GPU failure can be difficult to detect, but in this article, we explore the tell symptoms.

What causes GPU to fail? 

Your GPU may fail, but you’re unaware of why it has happened. GPU failures can be caused by several factors, such as:

  • Power surges – A power surge can damage a GPU, especially if you don’t have surge protection devices.
  • Dust build-up or corrosion – Dust build-up on your GPU can reduce its lifespan over time if left untreated. Corrosion of parts can also affect your PC’s performance negatively.
  • Overclocking the GPU – This increases the performance of the device, but it also increases the power draw and heat output. This can lead to hardware failures and other problems if you don’t have overclocking monitor software.
  • Heat – GPUs generate a lot of heat when running at full capacity, so make sure you regularly check your GPU’s temperature and that your case has enough ventilation. 
  • Vibration – GPUs are heavy and expensive, so be sure to place them on a table or other stable surface if you can. Also, keep them away from speakers or other loud equipment. 

What happens when a graphics card goes bad?

Now that you know why your GPU is failing, you’ll want to know what to expect. The first thing that happens is that the computer may not recognize the GPU at all. This can happen if you’re using an old driver or if there’s a conflict with something else on your computer. 

If you don’t know what to do and your computer won’t boot, your only option is to remove the new video card and install another one until you get things working again.

The problem may be more severe, such as a freeze when using certain applications. In such a case, you’ll need to reinstall Windows using an ISO file of your current version.

How do I know if my GPU is failing?

1. Overheating

If you experience an unusual amount of heat coming from your graphics card, it’s possible that your GPU is overheating. This may occur when the graphics card’s fan is not working properly or if it fails to cool down after running for long periods of time. 

Overheating will cause the GPU to generate more heat than it can dissipate and eventually fail. This can lead to permanent damage to your computer’s hardware and system components as well as cause other problems in your computer.

2. Slow PC

Another sign of a failing GPU is reduced performance or even no performance at all. If you’ve been running your PC for months without any problems, and suddenly it starts to run slow and unresponsive, your GPU may be the culprit.

You’ll notice that even the most mundane tasks, like opening folders or launching apps, take excruciatingly long. With time, your computer will slow down or become unstable. 

3. Random freezes and crashes

Screen glitches and freezing are typical symptoms of a failing GPU. If your computer has a screen constantly flickering or turning black, the problem may be with your graphics card. 

You may notice a static pattern on your screen when playing games or watching videos. This could also be an indication that your GPU is failing. These crashes can be game-specific or game-related, depending on the graphic needs of each.

4. Strange fan noises

You may hear a strange noise coming from your computer’s case. This could be your GPU fan or the hard drive’s vibration. The problem lies in the fact that the cooling system of your computer is not working properly.

The noise is usually caused by dust or debris entering your video card or motherboard. You should clean it up as soon as possible so that you don’t have to deal with this problem for long periods of time.

5. Frequent black/blue screens

A video card that’s failing is more likely to give you black screens and blue ones. Black screens render your PC unusable. The more frequent the occurrence, the more likely your video card is not functioning properly.

This is caused by the GPU overheating and the inability to complete a single task quickly enough. BSOD errors are a normal occurrence, but if they happen often enough, your GPU is trying to communicate.

How long do GPUs last before dying?

GPUs are designed to be extremely reliable and have a long lifespan, but they still have a finite amount of life left in them. The lifespan of a GPU varies by manufacturer and model. 

If you’re using it in an average way, it will last you a few years. However, if you’re using it to its full potential, you may have a dead GPU before too long. 

Your GPU’s longevity will be dependent on factors such as:

  • Amount of time you spend gaming –  Gaming is an intense activity that taxes not only your CPU but also your video card. 
  • Type of games you play – If you spend most of your time playing first-person shooters and racing games, then a high-end graphics card will last longer than an integrated one used for playing casual games.
  • Overclocking – A more powerful GPU can be pushed harder than a weaker one. However, overclocking causes stress which can cause issues down the road.
  • Type of GPU –  Each manufacturer manufactures their own cards, which are often built using a different process and therefore produce better or worse performance. You can compare GPUs before you make a decision.
  • The temperature at which your computer runs – GPUs can become damaged when exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time. 

GPU failure signs will most likely be invisible to the everyday user, at least until it’s too late. However, now that you know GPU dying symptoms, you can take the necessary steps to ensure you take care of yours. 

If it’s too late and you already have a dead GPU, it may be time to upgrade to a new graphics card.

Let us know how you keep your GPU in good shape in the comment section below.

Fix: OneDrive Is Missing from File Explorer in Windows 10

OneDrive is one of the most important parts of Windows, especially for those who use Office apps a lot. But, Microsoft’s cloud storage client can sometimes cause some trouble, as many reported that OneDrive is missing in File Explorer in Windows 10.

This is a strange issue that doesn’t happen quite often, but if it happens to you, things will surely get annoying. Though there are several ways to fix things if the OneDrive icon is missing in File Explorer.

Why is OneDrive not showing in File Explorer on Windows?

If OneDrve has sync issues, it might not appear properly in Windows. This isn’t the only problem, many reported that OneDrive status icons are missing on their PC.

There are multiple reasons for this, most notably bugs in the system, and a quick update should fix that. Alternatively, restarting the necessary services might help.

That’s not the only issue, and many reported that OneDrive doesn’t show thumbnails, but you might be able to fix that by waiting for the files to sync properly.

Why is OneDrive missing on my PC?

This can occur for several reasons, such as issues with your Microsoft or user account. Missing updates can also cause issues with certain components, leading to OneDrive missing from File Explorer in Windows 10.

In some instances, you might be having problems with your registry or policy settings that are preventing OneDrive from working properly.

Where are OneDrive files stored locally?

Users typically create the same local file on their PCs after uploading it to the cloud. Typically, it is stored on the following path:

C:\Users[username]\OneDrive

Please substitute your exact username for [username].

As more files are uploaded to the cloud over time, local files may be formed.

What other issues with OneDrive can appear?

  • OneDrive not showing in File Explorer Windows 10 – If OneDrive isn’t showing in File Explorer, that might be due to your policy settings. To fix the issue, you need to go to Group Policy Editor and check if OneDrive is enabled.
  • OneDrive shared folder not showing in Explorer – This is another problem that can appear with OneDrive. However, you can fix that problem simply by installing the missing Windows Updates.
  • OneDrive disappeared Windows 10 – Some users reported that OneDrive disappeared completely from Windows 10. This can be a problem, but you might be able to fix it simply by modifying the Registry.
  • OneDrive missing from Taskbar – Several users reported that OneDrive is missing from their Taskbar. This is a minor problem, and you should be able to fix it by running the OneDriveSetup.exe file.

So, we gathered a few possible solutions for this problem, and we hope at least one of them will be helpful to you. Check out those solutions below.

What can I do if OneDrive is missing from File Explorer?

Before heading to the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Update Windows 10 in case there are any pending updates for the OS.

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

1. Make sure your PC is synced with OneDrive

If your computer isn’t fully synced with the cloud, the OneDrive folder will be missing in File Explorer in Windows 10. So, before you try anything else, ensure everything is synced correctly.

If you notice any issues in this regard, find out what to do if the OneDrive account isn’t synced properly in Windows 10.

Alternatively, you can switch to another, more reliable cloud-sharing service such as Sync and avoid all these problems.

2. Save an image to OneDrive

  1. Right-click on the OneDrive icon in the system tray, click on the gear icon and then choose Settings.settings
  2. Now, enable the toggle for Save the screenshots I capture to OneDrive.save screenshots I capture to OneDrive
  3. Press Windows + Shift + S to open Snip and Sketch and capture a screenshot.
  4. Once it’s captured, open the file, press Ctrl + S, enter a name for the screenshot, and then click Save.save screenshot
  5. Now, press Windows + E to open File Explorer, and the OneDrive option should be listed in the navigation pane.

A quick workaround shared by one of our readers was to capture a screenshot using Snip and Sketch and upload it to OneDrive, which would automatically get the cloud service to appear in File Explorer, and it will no more be missing in Windows 10.

3. Switch to a Local Account

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, and navigate to the Accounts section.
  2. If you’re already logged in with your Microsoft Account (and you probably are), click on Sign in with a local account instead.
  3. Click on Next to proceed.
  4. Enter your Microsoft account credentials to confirm that you’re authorized to make the change, and then click OK.
  5. Enter your new local user name and password, you can also add a password. Click Next.
  6. Click Sign out and finish.
  7. Once you log back in, navigate to the Settings app and go to Accounts.
  8. Go to Sign in with a Microsoft account instead
  9. Enter your login credentials.

If you run into any issues, find out how to fix things when unable to log in with the Microsoft account in Windows.

4. Make sure the file path isn’t too long

  1. Visit the OneDrive web app and log in.
  2. Locate the file or directory that might be causing problems.
  3. Right-click it and choose Rename.
  4. Now enter a shorter name.
  5. Check if the problem is resolved.

OneDrive allows only 440 characters-long file paths, so if a path of your specific file or folder is longer, it won’t be shown, so be sure to change it.

5. Remove all OneDrive entries from your registry

Note icon NOTE
This solution doesn’t work on Windows 10 or 11, so use it only on older versions.
  1. Press Windows key + R and enter regedit. Now press Enter.
  2. Go to Edit and select Find.
  3. In Find what field enter onedrive and make sure to check all Look at options. Now click Find next.
  4. Once you find OneDrive entries, remove them and repeat the previous step. Keep repeating this process until you remove all OneDrive entries from your PC.
  5. According to users, there might be about 20 entries on your PC, so this process can take a while.

6. Modify your registry

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter regedit.
  2. Now navigate to this key on your PC: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
  3. Now look for the OneDrive key. If it’s not available, right-click on Windows and expand the New section, and select Key. Name the key OneDrive.
  4. Navigate to the OneDrive key.
  5. Now look for DisableFileSyncNGSC key in the right pane and double-click to open it.
  6. If it’s missing, simply right-click the empty space in the right pane, expand the New menu and select DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  7. Now enter DisableFileSyncNGSC as the name of the new key. Double-click the newly created DWORD.
  8. Now change the Value data to 0 and click OK to save changes.

According to users, sometimes you might be able to fix the problem by modifying your registry. Once you make these changes, OneDrive should not be missing from File Explorer in Windows 10 anymore.

7. Make changes to your Group Policy

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter gpedit.msc. Now press Enter.
  2. In the left pane, navigate to Computer Configuration and then to Administrative Templates. Now choose Windows Components and select OneDrive.
  3. Now double-click Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage to open its properties.
  4. When the properties window opens, set the policy to Not Configured and click Apply and OK to save changes.

If OneDrive is missing from your PC, the problem might be your group policy. Sometimes certain policies can be set that will prevent OneDrive from working properly. However, you can always manually disable these policies.

After doing that, OneDrive should start working again, and you won’t have any issues with it.

8. Run the OneDriveSetup.exe file

  1. Press Windows + R, paste the following path, and hit Enter: %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\Update
  2. The Update directory will now appear. Double-click OneDriveSetup.exe and follow the instructions on the screen to set up OneDrive.

After running the OneDrive.exe file is missing in File Explorer, the other methods here should get things up and running.

How do I add OneDrive to File Explorer on Windows 11?

Make sure that the OneDrive icon isn’t hidden

  1. Press Windows key + S and type taskbar. Select Taskbar settings from the search results.
  2. Now click on Taskbar corner overflow.
  3. If OneDrive is on the list, make sure that it’s enabled.

Once done, OneDrive should appear in File Explorer and will not be missing anymore in Windows.

Is OneDrive free to use?

Yes, when you sign up with a Microsoft account, you get 5GB of cloud storage for free. However, if you need more space, you’ll need to purchase a subscription.

But even in the free version, OneDrive offers enough space for basic needs, so it’s worth checking out.

Is OneDrive available on all versions of Windows?

This used to be the case, but Microsoft has plans to drop support for older versions up to 10. Only Windows 10 and 11 users will have the OneDrive app available.

However, the web version will continue to work regardless of the platform you’re using, so you won’t lose your files.

How do I add OneDrive to the Explorer navigation pane?

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run command, enter regedit in the text field, and click OK.regedit
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt that appears.click Yes
  3. Paste the following path in the address bar and hit Enter:Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}
  4. Now, double-click the System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree DWORD.System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree key
  5. Enter 1 under Value Data, and click on OK to save the changes.change value data
  6. Similarly, set 1 as the value data for the same DWORD in the following path:HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\WOW6432Node\CLSID{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}

So, if OneDrive is not showing in the File Explorer navigation pane in Windows 11, you can now easily add it.

That’s about it, we hope this article helped you to solve the problem when OneDrive is missing in File Explorer in Windows 10 and 11. Also, find out what to do if you can’t access the OneDrive account.

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

Mouse Keeps Jumping Around: Why It Happens & Fix

If your mouse keeps jumping around or ignoring your movements on Windows 10, you’re not alone. It’s a frustrating issue that can seriously mess with your workflow.

While it might be a simple driver glitch or system setting, sometimes the mouse itself is the problem. Before replacing it, try a few quick fixes first.

This guide covers the main reasons your cursor jumps and how to fix them, including tips on updating your drivers and running a virus scan to rule out malware.

How can I fix the mouse if it’s jumping around on Windows 10?

Before we head to making changes to Windows, here are a few quick tricks that might work:

  • Unplug the mouse and connect it to a different USB port in case the present USB port is not working or is faulty. Also, disconnect all non-critical peripherals from the PC and check if the problem is resolved.
  • A user pointed out that in touchscreen laptops, the problem may appear due to the improper functioning of the screen. In this case, disable the touchscreen functionality in the BIOS. Then, check the manufacturer’s website for the exact steps.
  • Try using another mouse and verify whether it, as well, jumps on Windows 10. Because in that case, the problem indeed lies with the computer.

If nothing listed previously worked, try the fixes listed next.

1. Adjust the touchpad delay time and disable the touchpad

1.1 Adjust touchpad delay time

  1. Press the Windows + I hotkeys on your computer, then select Devices.devices-w10 mouse jumping around windows 10
  2. Next, select the Mouse tab and change the mouse speed. Touchpad cursor jumping around in Windows 10 will no longer be an issue.mouse-speed mouse jumping around windows 10

1.2 Disable touchpad

  1. On your home screen, click on the arrow located near the clock and then right-click on the touchpad icon.
  2. Select Property of Touch-Pad, and switch to the tab associated with your Touchpad from the next window. fix mouse jumps pc mouse properties
  3. Click the Stop Device button or check the Disable when external USB pointing device plugin checkbox. This way, you can fix the mouse jumps on your PC.

Due to the same reasons explained during the previous troubleshooting solution, you must also try to disable the touchpad.

If this didn’t help you fix the problem, we also have an excellent guide on avoiding your touchpad interfering with your mouse.

2. Check the associated drivers

  1. Right-click the Start icon, then select Device Manager.device-manager-w10 amd driver install problems
  2. Navigate towards Mice and other pointer devices—Right-click on each driver and select Update driver.update-driver-mice mouse jumping around windows 10
  3. Then, restart your Windows 10 computer and see if that resolves the mouse jumps in Windows 10.

If, after updating the driver, the issue is still there, try to manually install the latest driver version available.

To avoid damaging system settings, we strongly recommend using dedicated software such as the one recommended below to search the web and suggest appropriate drivers update the old ones.

Not only that the software will ease the job for you, but you can also use it for further monitoring the essential system drivers and processes to optimize and update them accordingly.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Take advantage of in-depth scans and let the tool find the latest updates for your device drivers.
Free trial Download now

3. Adjust the settings from Control Panel

  1. Press Windows, then input control and select Control Panel from the list.control-panel-serarch-w10 opera not responding
  2. Type mouse inside the search bar and select the Mouse result.mouse-search mouse jumping around windows 10
  3. Make sure you uncheck the box next to Enhance pointer precision, then click OK.

Mouse Acceleration is another name for the Enhance Pointer Precision feature. When you use it, it will make on-the-fly adjustments to your DPI to provide you the ability to move your cursor over a greater distance.

When you are attempting to aim, the value of your DPI will fluctuate all the time as a result of this.

4. Scan your computer

  1. Press the Windows key + R, and in the Run box, type msconfig, then press Enter.msconfig mouse jumping around windows 10
  2. In the window that opens, switch to the Boot tab. From there, check Safe Boot located under Boot options.boot-safe mouse jumping around windows 10
  3. Also, check the Network box. Click OK and then Apply.
  4. Restart your Windows 10 device.
  5. Now resume the scanning process for removing possible malware.

Malware or viruses can be why the mouse jumps in Windows 10, so you need to remove the malicious program accordingly.

We recommend you use some of the best virus removal tools for Windows 10. There you go; that’s how you can fix the mouse jumps in Windows 10 problem.

How can I fix the mouse jumping around on Windows 11?

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, then go to Windows Update.windows-update kernel auto boost lock acquisition with raised irql
  2. Click the Check for updates button in order to bring your OS up-to-date and fix mouse jumps on PC.check-updates-w11 kernel auto boost lock acquisition with raised irql

By updating your OS, you will use the latest bug fixes and features that can address the PC mouse jumps that have been causing you issues so far.

Why is my mouse jumping around on my laptop?

Malfunctioning hardware, such as the mouse, the USB port, and the cable, is frequently the cause of the mouse moving about randomly. Also, issues with the screen on touchscreen laptops have been reported to be the underlying cause here.

The erratic behavior of the cursor can also be caused by a mouse pointer that is corrupted, an out-of-date device driver, faulty touchpad settings, or even malware. By following the above solutions, you can address all these issues and successfully regain access to your mouse.

For more solutions, we recommend you check what to do if the cursor freezes, jumps, or disappears in Windows.

Other common mouse issues include the cursor not going to the second screen, disappearing entirely, lagging during use, or clicking on its own.

Do tell us which troubleshooting solution worked for you by using the comments field below. Of course, stay close and check out our tutorials for learning further Windows-related tips and tricks.

Microsoft OneNote’s Vertical Tabs layout option is now available on Windows

In December, Microsoft announced its plans to introduce a new layout option for OneNote on Windows. The company termed this addition as a “top request” from users as it would make it easier for them to navigate through their resources.

The company has now announced that the Vertical Tabs layout option is now available for the OneNote Windows client. You should be able to access this new feature if you are running on Version 2302 (Build 16124.20000) or later.

To access this feature, you’ll need to navigate through View > Tabs Layout > Vertical Tabs. Likewise, you can also revert back to the horizontal tabs layout option by navigating through the same path but instead of selecting Vertical Tabs choose Horizontal Tabs.

Microsoft plans to add a Vertical Tabs layout option to OneNote on Windows soon - OnMSFT.com - December 8, 2022

It should be noted that this new feature is not rolling out to OneNote for Windows 10 because Microsoft is set to drop its support in 2025.  The company already removed it from the Microsoft Store and replaced it with the new and unified OneNote app.

That said, you can still make use of OneNote for Windows 10 though you’ll now need a direct link to download it. It still features pages, sections, and notebooks aligned on the left-hand side, and more.

If you want to get the new unified app, it comes as part of the pre-installed Office apps in a new Windows 11 device. If not, check out our expert guide which will help you download and install the correct version of the app. We also invite you to check out our separate post that will equip you with neat tricks and tips that will help you get started with OneNote.

Microsoft is upgrading Windows 11 21H2 devices to Windows 11 22H2 automatically

If your device is running on Windows 11 21H2, it might be upgraded to Windows 11 22H2 automatically soon. Microsoft has announced that it has started automatically upgrading devices running on Windows 11, version 21H2 (both Home and Pro editions) to Windows 11, version 22H2.

As you might already be aware, Microsoft is set to drop support for Windows 11 21H2 on October 10, 2023. Upgrading devices to Windows 11 22H2 is Microsoft’s way of ensuring that users are using up to date and secure Windows versions.

According to Microsoft:

Since Windows 10, we have been helping Windows users stay up to date and secure with supported versions of Windows through automatic updates. We are utilizing this same approach for Windows 11 to help you stay protected and productive.

That said, the process will be gradual “starting with those devices that have been using version 21H2 for the longest period of time.” Of course, Microsoft is providing users with a little bit of wiggle room since Windows 11 21H2 will still continue to receive security updates, at least for the next nine months.

This way users will be able to choose when they want to upgrade to the newer and supported Windows version. However, if you want to transition to Windows 11 22H2 before Microsoft cut support for Windows 11 21H2 you can check if the update is available for your device via the Windows Update settings.

“Customer feedback and analysis show a positive experience with Windows 11, version 22H2,” says Microsoft. It should be noted that not all customers will be able to upgrade to the newer Windows version just yet because the company has placed a compatibility hold for users with certain versions of drivers for Intel SST on Intel 11th Gen Core processors and Windows 11. However, Microsoft is currently working on a fix for the issue and has provided a workaround for the same in the meantime.

Why Does Microsoft Edge Keep Freezing? (Quick Fix Guide)

If you’re wondering why does Microsoft Edge keep freezing, you’re likely dealing with a common issue. Many Windows users report that Edge keeps freezing, becomes unresponsive, or even causes the system to slow down. These problems often stem from corrupted browser data, hardware acceleration, or problematic extensions.

How to fix Edge when it keeps freezing in Winodws 10/11

1. Repair Edge and modify the settings

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.appwiz.cpl
  2. Locate Microsoft Edge, select it, and then click on the Change button.change to fix microsoft edge keeps freezing
  3. Click Yes in case a UAC prompt appears.
  4. Now, click on Repair and wait for Edge to reinstall.repair to fix microsoft edge keeps freezing
  5. Once done, launch the browser, click on the ellipsis near the top right, and choose Settings.settings to fix microsoft edge keeps freezing
  6. Head to the Privacy, search, and services tab, select the Balanced option under Tracking prevention, and disable the toggle for Always use “Strict” tracking prevention when browsing InPrivate.balanced to fix microsoft edge keeps freezing

That’s it! A user pointed out that repairing the browser and then modifying the privacy settings can fix things when Microsoft Edge keeps freezing.

2. Clean Edge cache

2.1 Clear cookies and site data

  1. Start Edge, click the Menu button (the three horizontal dots) in the top right corner, and choose Settings from the menu.
  2. Click on the three horizontal lines from the top left and select the Cookies and site permissions options from the list.
  3. Now select Manage and delete cookies and site data.
  4. Now click on See all cookies and site data.
  5. You will see all cookies stored in your browser. Click on the Remove all button.
  6. Confirm the selection by clicking the Clear button.

2.2 Clear browsing data

  1. Start Edge.
  2. Enter Settings as shown in the previous solution.
  3. Click on the three horizontal lines from the top left and select Privacy, search, and services from the list.
  4. Scroll down and click on Choose what to clear button.
  5. Select the data you want to clear and click on the Clear now button.

If Microsoft Edge is hanging, clearing the cache and browsing data is a quick fix.

3. Use a cleaning tool

Microsoft Edge freezes can be a big problem, but according to users, you can fix this issue simply by using a specialized cleaning tool.

They do this by fixing and repairing any files and libraries on your PC by comparing them with their own libraries, creating backups, and ensuring everything is in check.

Of course, the tools are useful for the entire well-being of your PC, not just your Microsoft Edge installation.

4. Use PowerShell

  1. Right-click the Start button and click on PowerShell (Admin) from the list.
  2. When PowerShell opens, enter the following command and press Enter to run it: $manifest = (Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.WindowsStore).InstallLocation + 'AppxManifest.xml' ; Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $manifest
  3. After the process is completed, close PowerShell and restart your PC.
  4. After your PC restarts, check if the problem is resolved.

5. Turn off Internet Explorer 11

  1. Press Windows + S and enter windows features. Select Turn Windows features on or off.
  2. Locate Internet Explorer 11 on the list and uncheck it.
  3. Click OK to save the changes.

6. Try resetting Microsoft Edge

6.1 Use the Reset option

  1. Open Edge.
  2. Click the Menu button and select Settings.
  3. From the left pane, select Reset settings.
  4. Now click on Restore settings to their default values.
  5. Confirm that you want to perform the reset.

6.2 Delete the Edge pack

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter %localappdata%. Click OK or press Enter.
    microsoft-edge-keeps-freezing-local-1
  2. Go to the following directory and delete all files from it: Packages\Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe
    microsoft-edge-keeps-freezing-local-2

6.3 Use PowerShell to reset Microsoft Edge

  1. Open PowerShell as administrator as shown in Solution 6.
  2. When PowerShell opens, enter this command, and press Enter to run it: Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers -Name Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml" –Verbose}

We have to mention that using PowerShell can be dangerous, therefore be extra cautious. Resetting Microsoft Edge will clear all your settings, so you might have to set them again.

7. Run the System File Checker and DISM

7.1 Run the SFC scan

  1. Type cmd in Windows search and click on Run as administrator to start Command Prompt with full privileges.
  2. When Command Prompt starts, enter the following command and press Enter to run it: sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the process to complete.

7.3 Run a DISM scan

  1. Start Command Prompt as administrator, as shown in the previous solution.
  2. Enter the following command and press Enter to run it: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

If the System File Checker toot doesn’t fix the problem, you might want to try using a DISM scan to set things right again.

8. Change your DNS

  1. Open Network Connections window. To do that, press Windows key + X and choose Network Connections from the menu.
    microsoft-edge-keeps-freezing-dns-1
  2. Locate your network connection, right-click it and choose Properties from the menu.
    microsoft-edge-keeps-freezing-dns-2
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
    microsoft-edge-keeps-freezing-dns-3
  4. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter 8.8.8.8 as Preferred DNS server and 8.8.4.4 as Alternate DNS server. You can also use 208.67.222.222 as Preferred and 208.67.220.220 as Alternate DNS server.
    microsoft-edge-keeps-freezing-dns-4
  5. Click OK to save the changes.

If Microsoft Edge is stuck, then the issue can be your DNS, and you can fix things simply by changing it.

If you encounter any other DNS problems or you want to get in-depth expertise, check our comprehensive guide on how to fix DNS issues in Windows 10.

9. Enable Automatically manage paging file size

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on System.
  3. Scroll on the left pane, click About, then select Advanced system settings on the right.
  4. Under Performance, click Settings.
  5. Click the Advanced tab, then the Change button.
    microsoft edge keeps freezing
  6. Tick Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.

10. Use another browser

Simply use another browser to save a website link to your Desktop and open that file using Microsoft Edge. According to users, this problem seems to be caused by tabs in Microsoft Edge, and by using this workaround, you’ll be able to use Edge without any freezes.

More so, it has tools that Edge doesn’t, such as a built-in unlimited VPN and integrated social network tools on its sidebar.

Opera

Opera

Upgrade to this error-free browser & enjoy a freeze-free experience!

How can I improve my Microsoft Edge performance?

The best way to improve performance is to disable extensions you don’t actively use. It’s also advised to keep the number of open tabs to a minimum or close the more demanding pages.

Additionally, you can enable Microsoft Edge Efficiency mode to optimize the resource usage of your browser.

Wrapping up

For more information, we suggest visiting our guide on reducing Microsoft Edge’s high CPU usage.

Freezes can cause you to lose your open tabs, but there are ways to restore previous session in Edge easily.

If you have any other suggestions or want to express your thoughts, leave them in a comment in the dedicated section below.

FAQ

Why does my Edge browser keep freezing on startup?

It may be due to corrupted profile data or startup extensions. Try resetting Edge or starting in InPrivate mode.

What if Edge keeps freezing even after updates?

Try reinstalling Edge or switching to a clean browser profile. If that fails, scan your system for malware or perform a Windows repair.

Does Edge freezing affect the whole system?

In some cases, yes—especially if hardware acceleration or video decoding causes GPU overload.

Can too many tabs cause Edge to freeze?

Yes. High RAM usage from many open tabs or heavy websites can slow down or freeze the browser.

Fix: “The Disk Structure is Corrupted and Unreadable” Error

The disk structure is corrupted and unreadable error occurs when a hard disk has a corrupted partition. Windows can’t access the corrupted partition and open its files when that happens.

While the error is more common in external disk drives, it can also occur with internal HDDs. Irrespective of the affected disk, the solutions in this guide should help you fix the issue easily.

How do I fix the Disk structure is corrupted and unreadable HDD error in Windows

1. Unplug and re-plug the external HDD or USB drive

If you’re getting this error with removable storage, such as a USB drive, unplug the storage device. Then, close all software on your taskbar and plug the external storage back in.

Or, reboot Windows before you plug the external HDD back in. Then, try opening the same files you did before when you got the Disk structure is corrupted and unreadable error.

2. Run a Check Disk (CHKDSK) Scan

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin the disk structure is corrupted and unreadable
  2. Type the command below (replace c with the drive letter of the faulty disk) and press Enter: chkdsk c: /rchkdsk
  3. Now, press Y if you are prompted.
  4. Finally, restart your PC, and the scan will start automatically.

Windows has a Check Disk utility that scans hard disks and fixes any errors it might find. It checks the disk’s file system integrity, such as in the Master File Table.

This is undoubtedly the best Windows tool to fix the disk structure is corrupted and unreadable error.

3. Reinstall external hard drives

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Device Manager option.
    device manager
  2. Click the Disk drives option to expand it and right-click the faulty drive.
  3. Now, select the Uninstall device option.
    uninstall device the disk structure is corrupted and unreadable
  4. Click the Uninstall button to confirm the action.
    uninstall button
  5. Finally, click the Scan for hardware changes icon at the top and restart your PC.
    scan for

Sometimes, the disk structure is corrupted, and unreadable error can be caused by faulty drivers. The solution to this is to uninstall and reinstall the corrupt driver.

4. Fix the HDD with M3 RAW

  1. Open M3 RAW and select the drive to fix.
  2. Click the Next button to scan the disk drive.
  3. The software will show you a list of files on the disk drive. Press the Fix Drive button to fix the disk drive.

There are numerous third-party programs you can use to fix the disk structure is corrupted and unreadable errors. M3 RAW checks and repairs file systems.

While it isn’t freeware, you can add the trial version to Windows from this website and fix a disk drive.

5. Fix the HDD With MiniTool Partition Wizard

  1. Open the MiniTool Partition Wizard window that lists all connected hard drives.Mini Tool Partition Wizard
  2. Select the corrupted disk drive, and click Check File System on the left of the window.
  3. A Check File System window opens from which you can select the Check & fix detected errors option.
  4. Press the Start button to initiate the scan.
  5. Restart Windows after the MiniTool Partition Wizard file system scan.

MiniTool Partition Wizard is a highly rated freeware disk partition manager that boasts a 20 million-strong user base and supports most storage devices.

This can also fix disk structure errors for drive partitions. Get MiniTool Partition Wizard and fix your disk drive by following the steps above.

6. Format the external disk drive

  1. Plug the external storage device into a desktop or laptop.
  2. Open the File Explorer and click This PC to open a list of devices and drives.
  3. Then, right-click a drive listed there and select Format to open the window below.
    format the disk structure is corrupted and unreadable
  4. Choose a file system format from the File system drop-down menu.
  5. Finally, select the Quick Format option if it’s not already selected, and press the Start button to format the drive.
    quick format

This fixes external drives that don’t include Windows, such as flash USB sticks. Formatting a drive erases all its contents and establishes a new file system to replace the corrupted one.

This is a good fix for the disk structure is corrupted and unreadable error if the files on the storage drive aren’t essential. But if you need to keep some of the drive’s content, save the files with a data recovery utility program such as EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.

Those are some of the best ways to fix corrupted disk structures with Windows tools and third-party software.

If you need more third-party disk management utilities that can also fix drive errors, check our detailed guide on the topic.

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

How to Run 32 Bit Programs on 64 Bit on Windows 11?

Even though a 64-bit system is more capable and faster in handling multiple operations, some apps only run on 32-bit systems on Windows 11.

So, if you have a 64-bit system and wondering if you can run 32-bit programs on it, then the answer is yes.

This guide will discuss methods with step-by-step instructions to run 32-bit apps on 64-bit Windows 11 computers. Let’s get started1!

What can I do to run 32-bit programs on 64-bit on Windows 11? 

1. Enable 32-Bit Application

1.1 Enable Internet Information Services & CGI

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.Control Panel
  2. Select Category from the dropdown for View By. Click Programs.Control Panel - Programs-run 32 bit programs on 64 bit windows 11
  3. Under Programs and Features, click Turn Windows features on or off.Turn Windows features on or off
  4. On the Windows Features window, select Internet Information Services.
  5. Now click World Wide Web Services to expand it.
  6. Click on Plus sign beside Application Development Features.
  7. Put a checkmark next to CGI. Click OK to save the changes. IIS manager enable services
  8. Windows will now apply the features; once done, click Close.Apply features Close the window

1.2 Make changes to Advanced Settings 

  1. Press the Windows key, type Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager, and click Open.IIS Manager - run 32 bit programs on 64 bit windows 11
  2. Double-click on the Desktop to expand it.
  3. Click on Application Pools from the left pane.
  4. From the right pane, right-click on DefaultAppPool, and select Advanced Settings.run 32 bit programs on 64 bit windows 11
  5. Under General, for Enable 32-Bit Applications, select True from the dropdown.General Enable 32-bit version Windows 11
  6. Click OK.

2. Download and run 32-bit programs

  1. Download the installer file of a 32-bit tool.Winrar download - run 32 bit programs on 64 bit windows 11
  2. Double-click on the installer file to run the installation.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  4. Use the app as usual.

So, these are steps that you need to follow to enable and run 32-bit programs on 64-bit Windows 11 computers. Try them to install the old or legacy apps on your new Windows 11 computer, and let us know in the comments section below.

Windows 10 Login Screen Doesn’t Appear: How to Fix & Causes

We all know how the Windows 10 boot sequence works. However, some users are complaining that the Windows 10 login screen doesn’t appear for some reason.

If you are facing this issue, there is nothing to worry about, as we have prepared the fixes to help you rectify it in this guide.

How do I show the login screen on Windows 10?

1. Initiate a fresh restart

A restart operation might fix the Windows 10 login screen that doesn’t appear issue, if the malfunction is not caused by corrupted files or by a malicious app or process.

All you need to do is to press and hold the Power button for a few seconds until the shutdown process is completed.

Then, re-initiate the boot sequence. If the problem is still there, download one of these registry cleaners and scan your system. If the Windows login screen is still not appearing, press the Ctrl + Alt + Del keys to reload the sign-in page.

2. Access Windows Safe Mode

  1. Press the Power button to force your PC to shut down. Power on your PC and forcibly shut it down again. Repeat this thrice to bring up the Advanced recovery menu.
  2. From the next screen, choose Troubleshoot.
    troubleshoot windows 10 login screen doesnt appear
  3. Next, click on Advanced options.
    advanced option
  4. Now, select Startup Settings.
    startup settings
  5. Click the Restart button from the next window.
    restart windows 10 login screen doesnt appear
  6. Finally, press the corresponding window to Enable Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.
    enable safe

If the Windows 10 login screen doesn’t appear because of a malicious app or a broken process, you should start your device in Safe Mode. While Safe Mode is running, third-party apps will be automatically disabled.

Also, from safe mode, you can run a system scan to address possible errors automatically:

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd admin
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter: sfc/ scannowcmd admin windows 10 login screen doesnt appear
  3. Finally, wait for the command to complete running and restart your PC.

If your Windows 10 laptop login screen due to a corrupt system file, running the SFC scan should fix the issue for good.

3. Create a new user account

  1. First, enter Safe Mode as explained in Solution 2.
  2. Press the Windows key+ I and select the Accounts option.
    accounts
  3. Next, select Family & other users in the left pane.
  4. Click Add someone else to this PC under Other users.
    family and
  5. Now, select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
    i dont have windows 10 login screen doesnt appear
  6. Click Add a user without a Microsoft account.
    add a
  7. Finally, enter the username, password, and other details and click Next to complete the process.
    next

Sometimes, the Windows 10 login screen doesn’t appear might be because of a glitch with your user account. In this case, you need to create a new account in Safe Mode to fix the issue.

4. Set automatic login

  1. Follow the steps in Solution 2 to access Safe Mode.
  2. When your PC boots up, press the Windows key + R, type netplwiz, and hit Enter.
    netplwiz run
  3. Now, uncheck the box for Users must enter a username and password to use this computer.
  4. Save your changes and reboot your Windows 10 system.

While this might not fix the cause of the Windows 10 login screen flashes then disappears issue, it allows you to use your device without having to enter your username and password during Windows 10 boot sequence

5. Run the command prompt line at boot

  1. Repeat Steps 1 to 3 in Solution 2.
  2. Now, select the Command Prompt option.
    command prompt windows 10 login screen doesnt appear
  3. Type the command below and hit Enter: net user Administrator /active:yesnet user
  4. Finally, reboot your computer.

Another effective method to fix the Windows 10 login screen that doesn’t appear is to activate the hidden admin account. This should trigger the login page on your next restart.

6. Perform a startup repair process

  1. Repeat Steps 1 to 3 in Solution 2.
  2. Choose System Restore.
    system restore
  3. Now, choose a restore point and click Next.
    restore point windows 10 login screen doesnt appear
  4. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.
  5. If the System Restore does not fix the problem, repeat Steps 1 and 2 and select Startup Repair in Step 3 instead.
    startup repair
  6. Finally, follow the onscreen prompts to complete the process.

In some cases, issues with your startup files might cause the Windows 10 login screen doesn’t appear issue. Thankfully, Windows has a built-in feature for fixing issues with the startup process.

With this solution, we can conclude this detailed guide. If you are looking for how to fix the missing user and password prompt on Windows 10 login screen, you should find useful solutions in this guide.

If Windows 10 is stuck on the login screen instead, check our detailed guide to fix that too effectively.

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

Windows 11 Beeps In Sleep Mode: 3 Ways To Stop It

Some users have posted on the Lenovo forum about Windows 11 beeping in standby mode. Apparently, some Lenovo PCs beep whenever they enter or exit standby mode on Windows Vista, 7, 11 or 10. That doesn’t mean that Windows 11 isn’t beeping in standby mode (sleep mode or hibernation) on other configurations.

One Thinkpad user shared his concerns with this occurrence.

How do I turn off these annoying beeps that sound every time my computer goes into and out of sleep and hibernation?

Learn how to disable beeping with the instructions below.

What can I do if Windows 11 beeps in Sleep Mode?

1. Deselect the Beep When Power State Changes Option

  1. Lenovo users have confirmed they’ve fixed standby mode beeping by deselecting a Beep when power state changes Power Management option. To deselect that setting, double-click the green battery icon on Windows’ system tray.
  2. Press the Advanced button on the Power Manager window.
  3. Select the Global Power Settings tab, which includes the Beep when power state changes option.
  4. Deselect the Beep when power state changes check box.lenovo power management
  5. Select the Apply option.
  6. Click the OK button.

2. Turn Off the System Beep

  1. Alternatively, users can turn off general beeping in Windows to fix beeping in standby mode. To do so, open Run with the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut.
  2. Then input ‘Control Panel’ in the Open box, and select the OK option.control panel
  3. Enter ‘change system sounds’ in the Control Panel’s search box.
  4. Click Change system sounds to open the window in the snapshot below.sound settings sounds tab
  5. Select Default Beep in the Program Events box.
  6. Select the (None) option in the Sounds drop-down menu.sounds default beep select None
  7. Press the Apply button.
  8. Then click OK to exit the window.
  9. Note that beeping might return when an alternative theme is selected. Thus, users might need to adjust the default beep settings as outlined above when they change the theme.

3. Turn Off Beeping Via the Command Prompt

  1. Users can also turn off system beeping via the Command Prompt. First, open the Run accessory.
  2. Then enter ‘cmd’ in Run’s text box.
  3. Press the Ctrl + Shift + Enter hotkey to open an elevated Prompt window.
  4. Input ‘sc stop beep’ in the Command Prompt, and press the Return button.sc stop beep cmd
  5. Then enter ‘sc config beep start= disabled’ in the Command Prompt and press Return.sc config beep start= disabled cmd

Those are a few of the resolutions that might fix Windows beeping in standby mode. In addition, some users with older PCs (such as the Lenovo B570) can also disable a Power Beep setting on the Configuration tab in the system BIOS to fix Windows beeping in standby.

We hope you managed to get rid of the Windows 11 beeping in Sleep Mode issue using our guide. Let us know what worked for you.

What Are the Best Software for Learning C++?

When it comes to computer language, the most well-known of them is C++ as it is widely used to develop various programs. C++ is a unique general-purpose programming language that gives programmers features to develop large-scale applications from search engines to graphics software, and video games.

One of the best ways to learn C++ programming is by using special text editors called IDE (Integrated Development Environment); this gives you built-in functions like code completion, compiling, and syntax.

IDE are better for learning C++ because they offer an easy user interface and offer comprehensive tools to ensure adequate C++ project completion. Windows Report has compiled some of the best IDE software for learning C++ programming language.

What is the best software you can use for learning C++?

Educative.io – In-depth information

Educative.io is an excellent C++ learning platform with tons of courses and information to help its users develop their programming skills.

It offers a C++ interactive learning course with the most popular programming languages around the world.

You can start with the basics of C++, explore templates, and obtain the skill of multithreading and concurrency concepts in C++.

Educative.io provides you with all the essentials of embedded programming and graph algorithms, and you can practice using OOP techniques with its powerful tools.

Other best features of Educative.io:

  • Create and personalize content
  • Progress tracking
  • Complete courses

Educative.io

Learn the C++ programming language step by step with this great platform.
Check price Visit Website

Apache NetBeans – Unique Qt toolkit support

This is an open-source platform for programming and is popular among the C++ community of users and is also compatible with other programming languages. It has a comprehensive community library of plugins.

There are several templates and project types which can be used to build programs and projects. Programmers can also use the drag-and-drop feature to import files to build applications from base templates.

It has a well-integrated C++ editor with a GDB debugger tool and offers support for various compilers which includes GNU, Oracle, MinGW, and Solaris Studio.

Apache NetBeans can highlight source code syntactically and semantically and allows you to refactor code effortlessly with a set of helpful and excellent tools.

Other best features of Apache NetBeans:

  • Easy file navigation
  • Unique Qt toolkit support
  • Easy support for source inspection

⇒ Get Apache NetBeans

CodeBlocks – Highly customizable

This software for learning C++ is free to use with an easily customizable cross-platform C++ IDE which offers comprehensive features.

CodeBlocks enables the import of plugins, and also authorizes users to develop plugins that become part of the code.

It is fast and easy to use and offers you access to multiple compiler support including GCC, clang, Borland C++ 5.5, and many others.

Furthermore, it provides multiple support for full breakpoints including code breakpoints, data breakpoints, and breakpoint conditions.

Other best features of CodeBlocks:

  • Interfaces support both GNU and GDB
  • Custom memory dump and syntax highlighting
  • Highly customizable and extensible

⇒ Get CodeBlocks

BlueFish – Powerful search and point functions

BlueFish is a powerful editor specially created for programmers and web developers and offers more extensive features than a normal text editor.

It has a multiple-document interface, is easy to use, and offers many features for writing software code and website scripts.

You can use it on multiple platforms and is compatible with many devices including the Windows operating system.

BlueFish starts really fast which helps you load hundreds of files within seconds and allows you to work effectively on multiple projects and automatically reinstates settings for each project.

The major features are listed below:

  • Full site uploader and downloader tool
  • Supports multiple encoding formats
  • Powerful search and point functions

⇒ Get BlueFish

GitHub – Collaborative coding

GitHub is a powerful software with built-in security, specially designed for collaboration that has a wide range of innovative tools.

This platform offers a full development environment where you can code, build, test, and open pull requests from any repository.

GitHub has a Pilot feature that helps you get suggestions for whole lines or entire functions exactly within your editor.

Moreover, you can use its Collaborative function which is a dedicated space for your community where you can ask and answer questions and have conversations with each other.

Other best features of GitHub:

  • Built-in security
  • Collaborative coding
  • Dedicated space for community

⇒ Get GitHub

Eclipse – Built-in browser

best software for learning C++

Eclipse is a popular open-source IDE software for learning C++ among programmers that offers a nice drag-and-drop user interface functionality tool.

The IDE supports GUI and is based on the code of the primary eclipse platform and has numerous features like a built-in browser and macro definition browsers.

It is a cool code editor with syntax highlighting and provides you with full support for your project creations.

You can combine effortlessly multiple languages support and other characteristics into any of its default packages.

Other best features of Eclipse:

  • Resourceful source code refactoring and generation
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Compatible with Windows OS

⇒ Get Eclipse

CLion – Fully integrated code analyzer

CLion is a premium tool editor which has powerful features to ensure seamless C++ programming for its users.

The tool comes with a fully integrated C++ environment for programmers and provides Cmake as a model for the embedded terminal windows.

In addition, CLion also enables you to access their smart code assistance that fully understands C and C++ with which you can read and write code efficiently.

You can simply find the context usages of a symbol by typing its name and obtain insight into function calls with the software’s parameter name hints.

Other best features of CLion:

  • Easy to use GUI
  • Fully integrated code analyzer and debugger
  • Easy code generation and refactoring

⇒ Get CLion

KDevelop – Modern technology

best software for learning C++

KDevelop is a freeware open-source software for learning C++ which is written on the base codes of KDevPlatform, KDE, and Qtlibrarie.

It is cross-platform compatible with Windows, and other operating systems and can help you enable plugins.

KDevelop has modern technology that offers consistent development environments, helping you get the job done with ease.

This software has an advanced editor with semantic code analysis and provides you with various workflows to assist, improve, and verify the code’s quality and functionality.

Other best features of KDevelop:

  • Multiple support for line editing within plugins
  • Easy use of widgets to create more vertical space in the home menu
  • Free download

⇒ Get KDevelop

Have you used any of the software we mentioned above for learning C++ programming language? Share your experience with us by commenting below.

How to Create Or Change A Custom Paper Size in Windows 11?

If you want to get a printout of your documents but the printer is not configured to use an incorrect paper size, the results will not be desirable.

To fix this, you need to change the paper size. It is a simple process and can be done in a few steps. 

This guide will discuss methods to create or change custom paper sizes on Windows 11. Let’s get started! 

How can I create or change a custom paper size on Windows 11? 

1. Use the Microsoft Office

1.1 Create a custom paper size

  1. Click on the File menu.File menu_custom paper size windows 11
  2. Now select Print, and click Page Setup. Print - Print setup
  3. In the Page Setup window, go to the Paper tab, and for Paper size, select page size from the dropdown. PageSetup
  4. Choose the Width and Height.
  5. Switch to Layout and Margins one by one and make changes accordingly.
  6. Now click OK. 

1.2 Choose the paper size for a particular page

  1. Open the document. Select the text on the document you want to change.
  2. Go to the Layout menu, under Page Setup, and click Size. Printout - custom paper size windows 11
  3. Choose the paper size from the recent list or click More Paper Sizes.
  4. Select the paper size from the dropdown.
  5. Next, navigate to Apply to choose Selected text from the dropdown list.Selected text
  6. Click OK. 

1.3 Choose the paper size for a section

  1. Select the section of the document. Then, on the View menu, click Print Layout. Print Layout Options - custom paper size windows 11
  2. To display nonprinting characters, go to the Home tab and click the button on the Show all nonprinting characters. Home tab - Show indisplaying characters button
  3. Go to the Layout menu, click Breaks, and select Section break for the section you want to change. Layout and section break
  4. Now under Page Setup, click Size. More paper sizes
  5. Click More Paper Sizes to open the Page Setup properties.
  6. Choose the custom size or the paper size from the list.
  7. Now go to Apply to option, and choose Selected text from the dropdown.Select text OK
  8. Click OK.

1.4 Choose the default paper size for new documents 

  1. Go to the File menu.
  2. Click Print, then click Page Setup.
  3. Go to Set As Default.Set as Default -custom paper size windows 11
  4. Click Yes. 

2. Use the Control Panel

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open. Control Panel
  2. Select View by and choose Category.
  3. Under Hardware and Sound, click View devices and printers.Hardware and sound - custom paper size Windows 11
  4. Choose Printers & Scanners.Printers & Scanners
  5. Go to Print Server Properties. Printer Server Properties
  6. Under Forms on, select the paper size dimensions.
  7. Choose the Form name and put a checkmark on Create a new form.
  8. Under Paper size, select the Height and Width. Create a new form - custom page size on Windows 11
  9. Under Margin, edit the Left, Right, Top, and Bottom fields.
  10. Now choose Save From and close the window. 

So, these are methods that you can use to create custom paper sizes on Windows 11. Try them and let us know which worked for you in the comments below.

5 Best Google Drive Alternatives to Back Up Your Data

Google Drive is a great service, and many people use it for backup. But what if you’re not a fan of Google Drive or if it doesn’t work well for you?

In today’s article, we’ll show you to best Google Drive alternatives that you can use to back up your data with ease.

What is the best Google Drive alternative for backup?

Acronis True Image – Simple and reliable

Acronis Cyber Backup Backup for Google Drive

Acronis True Image is well-known backup software, but in addition to backing up your files, the software also offers cloud storage to users with Advanced and Premium subscriptions.

All users get 500GB of storage with their subscription, but you can upgrade it up to 5TB. It’s important to mention that software will automatically back up files to the cloud, so you’ll have two backups available.

Acronis True Image supports active disk cloning, so you can create a backup while using your PC. The application will perform continuous backups, without interfering with your system.

Using this software, you can restore your PC directly from the cloud, which can be quite convenient, and thanks to end-to-end encryption, your backups will remain perfectly safe from third parties.

Acronis True Image is great backup software with advanced features, and thanks to built-in cloud support, it’s a great backup alternative to Google Drive.

Acronis True Image features:

  • 500GB cloud storage for users with Advanced or Premium Subscription
  • Expandable cloud storage up to 5TB
  • Dual protection will automatically upload your backup to the cloud
  • Cloud restoration feature
  • Support for full, incremental, and differential backups

pCloud – Best free solution

If you’re looking for a backup solution instead of Google Drive, then pCloud might be the right choice for you. The service is available on all platforms, in your web browser, and on Android and iOS devices.

pCloud is based in Switzerland, and as such, it has to comply with strict user privacy laws, meaning that your files and your personal data is fully protected.

The company also has a zero-knowledge policy, and since your files are encrypted, pCloud officials or anyone else can’t have access to your files.

The service uses TLS/SSL encryption while transferring files, but if you need more security, you can subscribe to client-side pCloud Crypto and encrypt your files.

pCloud is great cloud storage, and with its focus on user privacy, it’s a great alternative to Google Drive.

pCloud Crypto features:

  • Available on all desktop and mobile platforms
  • Strict zero-knowledge policy
  • Based in Switzerland
  • TLS/SSL encryption
  • Optional client-side pCloud Crypto encryption

Zoolz – Backup from any platform

Another Google Drive alternative for data backup is Zoolz. The service is available on PC, Windows, Android, and iOS, so you should be able to access your files at all times on any platform.

The service offers 1GB of storage for free, but if you need more space, you should consider using a subscription plan. The service is simple to use, and it will automatically back up your files.

If you’re backing up photos, you’ll be pleased to hear that Zoolz has a built-in facial recognition feature, so you can easily organize and tag photos according to people that appear in them.

The service also allows you to stream your videos directly from the cloud, without any buffering. Zoolz runs on Amazon Web Services, and it comes with strong encryption so your files will remain safe.

Overall, Zoozl is a solid backup alternative to Google Drive, and if you’re looking for a way to back up files to the cloud automatically, then consider using Zoozl.

Zoozl features:

  • Automatic backup
  • 1GB of storage in Free plan
  • Built-in face recognition feature
  • Ability to stream content from the cloud
  • Strong encryption thanks to the Amazon Web Services

Sync – Great free features

Sync is a cloud storage service, and by signing up for it, you’ll get 5GB of storage for free. However, you can expand the storage up to 4TB with one of several subscription plans.

You can access this service from your web browser, but there are also Sync apps available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, so you can access your files easily on any platform.

The service supports collaboration, so you can easily use it with other members of your team or household. Of course, you can protect all your links with passwords for extra security.

Speaking of collaboration, you can easily restrict access to certain files or folders for specific users. The service offers end-to-end encryption and no third-party tracking, so your data should remain secure.

Sync offers great features, and we barely mentioned the most important ones. If you’re looking for good cloud storage for backup, be sure to consider Sync.

Sync features:

  • Offers from 5GB to 4TB depending on your subscription plan
  • Available in a web browser and as a dedicated app on Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
  • Collaboration support
  • Ability to lock links with password
  • End-to-end encryption

IDrive – Good for optimized backup

IDrive Backup for Google Drive

IDrive is a cloud storage service optimized for backup that lets you back up data from PCs, Mac, iOS, and Android devices to a single account.

The service offers 5GB of storage for free, but you can get up to 10TB with a Personal subscription. IDrive comes with a web-based console, so you can remotely check the status of your backups.

Regarding the backups, the service can perform a sector-level backup or file-level backup, and thanks to the real-time sync, you should be able to backup and restore your files with ease.

Regarding the security, there’s 256-bit AES encryption, and thanks to the incremental and compressed backups, you’ll use less bandwidth while saving storage space on the cloud.

IDrive is a great backup service, and if you’re looking for an advanced backup alternative to Google Drive, you should check out IDrive.

IDrive features:

  • Ability to back up data from PC, Mac, iOS, and Android to a single account
  • Web-based console that lets you monitor backups remotely
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Online real-time syncing
  • Ability to perform sector-level or file-level backup

Google Drive is a great cloud service, but if you’re looking for Google Drive alternatives that are optimized for backup, be sure to try some of the services that we mentioned.

We also recommend consulting our list of the best automatic backup software for Windows 10/11.

If you have any other suggestions, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

How to Check Listening Ports With Netstat

Do you want to learn about Windows netstat listening ports? This article will discuss all the vital elements you need to be aware of.

Knowing which ports are open can help troubleshoot network connections and identify potential security vulnerabilities.

We will go through the basic usage of netstat and explain some standard options and flags. These can be useful to display specific information about listening ports.

What is the usefulness of the netstat utility?

The netstat utility is a command-line tool that can display various network-related information, including open ports and active connections. Some of the valuable features of netstat include the following:

  • Displaying active network connections – Netstat can display all active network connections, including the protocol (UDP or TCP), the local and remote addresses, and the connection state. This information can help troubleshoot network issues and identify potential security threats.
  • Showing listening ports – Netstat can also display all listening ports on a computer, along with the associated process or program. Hence, it helps identify which programs or services use specific ports and detect any unusual activity on a system.
  • Identifying routing table information – Additionally. netstat can display the contents of the routing table. Including the destination IP address, the gateway, and the interface through which the traffic passes. This information can help troubleshoot network routing issues.
  • Displaying statistics – Netstat can also display various statistics about network activity, such as the number of packets sent out and received, collisions, and errors. This information can help monitor network performance and detect potential issues.
  • Monitoring the state of a network connection – The netstat command will monitor the state of a network connection. It uses the options -a, -b, -n, -o, -p, and -r to know the state of the connection, the process ID, the number of packets and bytes sent/received, and more.

Now let us explore checking listening ports with this utility.

How can I see all listening ports using netstat?

  1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Terminal (Admin).
  2. To discover all listening and created connections on your computer, run the script below. Netstat shows established and listening connections when the -a parameter is used.
    netstat -a
    windows netstat listening ports
  3. Next, run the -an command to turn all names in your output into IP addresses.
    netstat -an
    windows netstat listening ports
  4. You will be able to see the PID using the command below:
    netstat -an -o
  5. And lastly, if you need to refresh to see if there are any changes, use the command below.
    netstat -an /r

In conclusion, netstat is a powerful command line tool that can check a Windows computer’s listening ports.

You can explore more detailed Netstat commands and advanced port checking techniques in this guide on how to use the Netstat command in Windows.

So, by understanding the primary usage and standard options, you can quickly and easily gather information about open ports on your system.

Finally, regularly checking listening ports on your computer is a good practice for maintaining the security of your network and identifying any unusual activity on your system.

How To Remove The Sort Arrow In Power BI [Step-By-Step]

We all know sorting your data is great and extremely necessary. In Power BI, the sorting function is complex and you can sort your data using different criteria.

Nevertheless, sometimes you need to do quite the opposite and to disable sorting for your information.

Unfortunately, disabling sorting in Power BI is not so obvious as it should have been, but do not worry! We have some workarounds just for you!

Also, you’re not the only one with this problem. Actually, many users complained that they can’t disable sorting in Power BI.

One user said the following on the official forum:

Hi, how it possible cancel ordered column in table in Power BI? Once I sort the column, I can’t cancel it anymore.

So, this user said that he can’t cancel a sorting once it’s enabled for columns in a table in Power BI. Today we will show you how to disable sorting in a few easy steps.

How can I remove the sort arrow in Power BI?

1. Disable sorting from Data visual

  1. Select the Data visual box from the left side of the window.power bi select data visual
  2. Click on the little box with the arrow.
  3. Click on Clear sort.power bi click on clear sorting

You can do this only for the second column. For the first one, even if you clear sorting, the ordering will remain the same.

2. Disable sorting from Table visual

If you want to sort in Table visual, then you need to click Sort again.

power bi sort again

3. Create another column

You can create a calc column to enable the desired ranking. This is not an actual random order, but it is a workaround that quite a few people use.

Remember that these are only workarounds, and Power BI doesn’t have an option to disable the ordering. So, the methods described above might not work for everyone.

This is not a major issue, but still, it is annoying to see that you can’t sort your data like you want to. Although Power BI is great in many ways, the tool has some limits.

Did you find our workarounds useful? how to you sort your data in Power BI? Do let us know in the comments section below!

PC Goes to Desktop While Gaming: 4 Easy Ways to Fix it

Let us explore possible solutions if your PC goes to the desktop while gaming.

Many Windows 10 users reported encountering a frustrating issue while playing games. The users get kicked to the desktop without the game crashing.

The game does minimize and usually gets paused. Most players reported that they could toggle back to the game, but it could kill meaningful progress, especially when playing online.

We devised a series of solutions to help you fix this issue.

Why do games go to the Desktop randomly?

There are a few reasons behind this random desktop problem. On top of the list are the following:

  • Computer malware – Your computer may have been infected with malware, which interferes with running games and causes sporadic interruptions. This is common if you do not use good antivirus software.
  • Third-party apps – Some apps do not interact well with the OS or other applications and may cause this problem.
  • Background programs – These are a group of apps that run without taking control of your screen. Some essential functions may cause them to interrupt other applications.

Now let us show you what to do if games go to the desktop randomly.

What do I do if my PC goes to the desktop while gaming?

1. Update GPU drivers

  1. Press the Windows logo key + R on your keyboard, type devmgmt.msc in the Run box to open the Device Manager, and hit Enter.
  2. Expand the Display Adapters section, right-click on each available driver, and select Update driver.update gpu drivers pc goes to desktop while gaming
  3. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  4. Wait for the process to find and install the new driver, then restart your PC and see if it has any effect.

If the steps above seem like too much of a hassle, and you want to maintain your drivers up-to-date at all times, we recommend you try dedicated updater software.

This utility will automatically find missing, damaged, or outdated drivers and install the latest versions available.

We suggest you try Outbyte Driver Updater because it is straightforward to use and has always proven to find the best driver for your hardware.

It is lightweight software that can be used on any device. You can set it up to do regular scans and update your drivers automatically.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Update your GPU drivers to their latest version so everything can run optimally.
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2. Scan for malware

  1. Type windows security in the Search tab and click on the app from the results.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.
  3. Now, if you have a third-party antivirus installed, it will override the default Microsoft Defender protection, and you can click on the Open app option. That will take you to the main menu of the antivirus, and you will be able to perform the scan.
  4. Lastly, opt for the Microsoft Defender Full or Offline scan options if you don’t have one, and verify that the ethernet not working issue is fixed.

We recommend you try an advanced virus removal tool with all the features necessary to keep your PC fully protected.

Thankfully, many Windows 10 compatible antivirus software tools have excellent Internet security and can detect network threats immediately.

3. Turn off applications working in the background

  1. Right-click the Windows Taskbar and select Task Manager.task manager pc goes to desktop while gaming
  2. In the Task Manager, open the Processes tab, identify unnecessary open apps, and press End task.
  3. After closing most of the background running apps, close the Task Manager and see if this had any effect.

4. Disable Game Mode

  1. Press the Windows logo key + G while in a game.
  2. Find the Game Mode icon on the right side of the Game Bar that’s opened, and click on the Game Mode icon to disable it.disable Game Mode pc goes to desktop while gaming
  3. Click the game and press Esc on your keyboard to hide the game bar, then check to see if this change had any impact.

The solutions above work for many games, including League of Legends and Sims 4, if they keep going back to the desktop or even if Steam games go back to the desktop.

If your pc goes to a desktop while gaming, we hope that you can find at least one fix from the list of solutions we provided.

If you found this article helpful, feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.

VMware Not Detecting USB Device: 2 Quick Fixes

VMware not detecting USB devices isn’t too uncommon, not to say downright frustrating. With the USB port remaining out of bounds, this seriously limits the all-round experience that the workstation can otherwise provide for.

Fortunately, getting around the issue isn’t too big of a deal either. It is just a few tweaks and you should be able to get full access to your USB devices via the VMware workstation as in the ideal scenario.

What to do if VMware is not detecting USB device?

1. Make appropriate settings changes in Windows Administrative Tools

  1. Click on Start > Windows Administrative Tools > Services. Alternately, you can also type Windows Administrative Tools in the Cortana box and select from the search result shown.
  2. In the Services window, locate and right click on VMware USB Arbitration Service.
  3. From the short-cut menu that appears, click on Properties.
  4. In the BMware USB Arbitration Service Properties (Local Computer) window that appears, click on the drop-down box associated with Startup type and select Automatic.
  5. Click on Apply for the change to take effect.
  6. Next, make sure the Service status is shown as Running.
  7. If that isn’t the case, click on the Start Wait for the service to start.
  8. Click on OK to close the Properties
  9. Close the Services window as well.

2. Ensure the VMware is configured with a USB controller

  1. For that, select VM > Settings.
  2. In the Settings window, click on the Hardware tab followed by clicking on USB Controller.
  3. Follow on-screen instruction.
  4. Worth mentioning, you can configure VMware Workstation to add both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0.
  5. With the VMware configured with a USB controller, you should have no issues connecting a USB device to the virtual machine.

This should be all you will ever need to do to ensure you are able to access USB devices such as speakers, webcams or just about anything with an USB interface via the VMware workstation.

We hope you managed to fix the issue of VMware not detecting USB device on your computer. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.

Notepad++ Not Responding On Windows: Fix

Notepad++ is a free text and source code editor for Windows systems. Additional plugin support from third-party developers has made it a popular code editor for programmers. That said, several users have reported the Notepad++ not responding issue when using the code editor.

Your Notepad++ may stop responding if a third-party plugin is causing an issue. However, the issue can also be due to previous sessions.

Notepad++ developers recommend using the two-line argument that allows you to start Notepad++ without loading the previous session or plugins, making it easier to determine the cause of the problem with Notepad++.

In this article, we take a look at the best solutions to fix the Notepad++ not responding issue on Windows.


What to do if Notepad++ is not responding?

1. Start Notepad++ without plugin and previous sessions

Notepad++ not responding

Add line argument to Notepad++ shortcut

  1. Right-click on the Notepad++ shortcut on your desktop.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Open the Shortcut tab in the Properties window.
  4. In the Target field, add the following line arguments:
    -nosession
    -noPlugins
  5. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

-Nosession – This command-line argument starts Notepad++ without loading the previous session. So, if you think Notepad++ is crashing due to the previous session, try loading the tool without the previous sessions.

-noplugins – This command-line argument will start Notepad++ without loading any plugins. If the code editor is crashing due to a corrupt plugin, you can uninstall the plugin by loading without plugins.

Add command-line arguments via the Run dialogue box

Notepad++ not responding
  1. Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
  2. Type the path of the program that looks something like this:
    C:Program FilesNotepad++notepad++.exe
  3. Next, add one of the following command-line arguments:
    -nosession
    -noPlugins
  4. After adding the path and command-line argument, it should look something like this:
    C:Program FilesNotepad++notepad++.exe -nosession
  5. Click OK to start Notepad++ without the plugins or loading previous sessions.

You can remove the command line argument from the shortcut once you have resolved the issue with Notepad++.

Using the command line arguments can also help you determine the cause of Notepad++ crashing quickly. Simply use one of the above-given line argument to start Notepad++.

If the code editor does not crash when using -nosession command-line argument, it means a previous session is causing the tool to crash. If not, try -noplugins to see if there is third-party plugins conflict.


2. Notepad++ not responding on startup

Notepad++ not responding

Check Debug info

  1. Open Notepad++.
  2. Click on the Question? mark icon.
  3. Select Debug info.
  4. A pop-up window will appear showing the Notepad++ details.

Before deleting the plugins, check Notepad++ debug info to see if you find any hints to work with the plugins. Begin with deactivating or deleting the plugins shown on the Debug Info page.

Delete Notepad++ plugins

If you discover the crashes to have occurred due to a plugin conflict, consider deleting the plugin to see if that helps you resolve the issue.

Notepad++ not responding
  1. Open Notepad++.
  2. Click on Plugins.
  3. Select Plugins Admins.
  4. Open the Installed tab.
  5. If you know which plugin is causing the error, select it from the list.
  6. Click Remove.
  7. If you are not sure which plugin is causing the issue, select the most recently installed plugin and then click Remove.
  8. Relaunch Notepad++ with plugins enabled and check for any improvements.
  9. You may have to repeat the steps until you find the corrupt plugin.

3. Delete session.xml file

Notepad++ not responding
  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the following location:
    C:Usersyour usernameAppDataRoamingNotepad++
  3. Locate the session.xml file.
  4. Right-click on the session.xml file and select Delete.
  5. Close File Explorer and relaunch Notepad++ to see if the error is resolved.

Run in compatibility mode

Troubleshoot Notepad++
  1. Right-click on your Notepad++ shortcut.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Open the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the “Run this program in compatible for” box.
  5. Select Windows 7.
  6. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
  7. Relaunch Notepad++ and check for any improvements.

4. Notepad++ not responding when opening or save

Troubleshoot Notepad++
  1. Download the older zipped version of Notepad++.
  2. Extract the zip file to where you like to run it.
  3. Run the Notepad++.exe file.
  4. Do not install any plugins for this version of Notepad++.
  5. Open the file that is causing Notepad++ to crash or freeze.

If the file opens without any issues, it is an incompatible third-party plugin causing the issue.  Make sure to remove the incompatible plugin to see if that helps you resolve the issue.


6. Notepad++ not responding large files

Notepad++ not responding
  1. Open Notepad++.
  2. Click on Plugins.
  3. Select Plugin admins.
  4. Open the Installed tab.
  5. Check if you have installed the Location Navigate plugin.
  6. Select Location Navigate.
  7. Click on Remove.
  8. Relaunch Notepad++ and check for any improvements.

The Notepad++ not responding issue usually occurs due to incompatible or corrupt plugins. Try deleting the plugins to see if that helps resolve the issue.

If the problem persists, try installing the older version of Notepad++ or reinstall the latest version.


Windows 10 Sleep Shortcut: How to Create & Use Easily Use It

Creating a Windows 10 sleep shortcut can be very useful, and in this guide, we will cover all aspects of this topic.

Working with your Windows 10 devices can often be a pleasure, and this process becomes more seamless when you can shut down or sleep your computer at will.

Creating and using special shortcuts for this purpose is often a great way to go, and it increases your efficiency and becomes a quick workaround when you have problems navigating your Start menu.

In this article, we shall look at some of the most exciting ways to sleep the PC using easy shortcuts, and we will go through some of its benefits for a user.

Is there a keyboard shortcut for sleep?

Yes, on all Windows 10 devices, there is a default sleep keyboard shortcut. However, you could improvise and personalize this sequence.

There are a few advantages to using keyboard shortcuts, including the following:

  • Time-saving – Using keyboard shortcuts could save you the time of opening different menus to complete a function on your device.
  • Productivity boosting -Because these shortcuts are time savers, you probably will get more done once you are used to using them.
  • Easy switching of views – In addition to locking your screen, they will help you seamlessly switch between screens and applications on your device.

Now, let us explore the process of creating and using shortcuts to sleep the PC.

How do I put Windows 10 to sleep using shortcuts?

1. Creating a sleep shortcut

1.1 How to create the shortcut

  1. Right-click on any empty desktop space, navigate to New, then Shortcut.
    Windows 10 sleep shortcut
  2. In the text field, paste the script below and click on Next (You should have Hibernation turned off. If not, the computer hibernates rather than sleeps).
    rundll32.exe powrprof.dll,SetSuspendState 0,1,0
    Windows 10 sleep shortcut
  3. Input a name and click the Finish button.

1.2 Assigning the shortcut a hotkey

  1. Right-click on the newly created shortcut and select the Properties option.
  2. Select the Shortcut tab, input the hotkey you want to use in the Shortcut key text field, then click Apply and OK.
    Windows 10 sleep shortcut

Now you should have successfully created your sleep shortcut, and you should be able to control it using the newly created hotkey.

2. Using the default Sleep Mode shortcut

  1. Press the Windows + D hotkeys to reveal the desktop. Ensure all critical apps are closed.
  2. Press Alt + F4 to open up Windows’ shutdown dialog box.
  3. Expand the dropdown menu, select Sleep hit Enter, or click OK.

Once this process is completed, you should have your computer put to sleep.

3. Using a key sequence

  1. Press Windows + X to open the Win + X menu. On each menu item, you will see an underlined alphabet representing the shortcut for the process.
  2. Press U on the keyboard.
  3. Finally, press S on the keyboard.

Creating a Windows 10 sleep shortcut gives you the most significant flexibility. You could choose the same hotkeys you want to work with.

Note that we have not created these solutions in any particular order, and you should use what seems the most appropriate to you.

Let us know which of the above methods works for you in the comment section below.

How To Remove Black Bars On Netflix On Windows PC

The 21:9 VDUs are supposed to eliminate black bars from movies and other videos. Yet, streamed Netflix movies playing on 21:9 VDUs still include black bars at the top, bottom and on sides when in full-screen mode.

This is due to Netflix encoding their videos with a 16:9 aspect ratio, resulting in the black borders being actually encoded in the movie streams themselves.

Here are a few tips on how to remove black bars around Netflix movies more specifically for 21:9 VDUs.

How can I get rid of black bars in Netflix?

1. Fix Black Bars With Windows Tablet Mode

  1. Windows tablet mode provides one resolution for the black bars found in Netflix movies. First, open a movie on Netflix and pause its playback.
  2. Next, press the Windows key + A hotkey to open the sidebar shown directly below.action center windows 10
  3. Press the Tablet mode button on the sidebar.
  4. Return to the Netflix movie which will now include a zoom screen button at the bottom right corner. Pressing that zoom button will expand the film to full screen and cut out the black borders around it.
  5. Press the Windows key + A hotkey and press the Tablet mode button again. That will now switch off the tablet mode.
  6. Play the Netflix movie.

Note that this trick doesn’t work with multiple VDUs. The Tablet mode option will be grayed out if you have multiple VDUs connected. If you have multiple monitors, you’ll need to select a specific display first.


2. Add the Ultrawide Display Aspect Ratio for Netflix Extension to Chrome

There are a few browser extensions that can eliminate black bars around Netflix films. Ultrawide Display Aspect Ratio for Netflix is one Chrome extension that rids black borders from Netflix movies with its aspect ratio fill modes. You can install that add-on by pressing the + Add to Chrome button on this website page.

When you’ve added the extension to Chrome, load up a Netflix movie in that browser. Then, you can press the Ultrawide Display Fill Mode button shown in the snapshot directly below. Alternatively, press the – or = keyboard keys to switch to the cover mode.

Ultrawide Display Aspect Ratio for Chrome

3. Add the UltraWide Video Extension to Chrome

UltraWide Video is a Chrome extension designed to remove borders from online video content played on ultrawide VDUs. Click the + Add to Chrome button on this page to add UltraWide Video to the browser. Play a Netflix film and press the extension’s Ctrl + Alt + C hotkey to eliminate the black borders.

UltraWide Video Extension for Chrome

4. Add Black Bars Begone to Chrome

Black Bars Begone is another extension that removes black bars from Netflix movies playing on VDUs with 21:9 aspect ratios. You can add the extension to Google Chrome from this website page. Then, press the Black Bars Begone button on the browser‘s toolbar to expand the source material when watching Netflix films. Note that this extension only works for Netflix content.

Black Bars Begone for Chrome

So you can get rid of black bars around Netflix movies by switching to tablet mode in Windows or by adding the Black Bars Begone, UltraWide Video or the UltraWide Display Aspect Ratio extensions to Google Chrome. They are straightforward add-ons that enable you to get the most from your 21:9 VDU’s cinematic display when playing Netflix movies.

In case you have any alternative ways of removing the black bars from the Netflix playback, feel free to tell us in the comments section below.

The System Cannot Find The Path Specified uTorrent: Fix

uTorrent is one of the most popular applications for downloading torrents on Windows 10.

Despite its massive popularity, many users complained about the “System cannot find path” error message while using uTorrent.

How can I fix the System cannot find the path specified uTorrent error?

1. Make sure that the file path is less than 256 characters

Windows has a limitation for file paths of 256 characters, and if you exceed this limit you’ll usually get a “System cannot find path” error. To fix this problem, be sure that a file name and download location of your torrent don’t exceed 256 characters. Bear in mind that file path includes both the location of the download folder and the name of the torrent file, so be sure that path doesn’t exceed 256 character limit.

If you’re having this problem, we suggest that you download your torrents to a root directory on your hard drive such as D: for example, or use shorter names for torrent files.

2. Check for space or dot characters

Sometimes uTorrent can change the download path of your torrents by adding a dot or an empty space. Usually the dot character will be added at the beginning or at the end of a folder or a torrent file thus making it unreadable. To fix this error be sure that the path to your torrent file doesn’t contain any dots before or after the folder or file name.

Sometimes space character can be added at the end of the destination folder as well, so be sure to check the file path for any unexpected space characters.

  • Read also: Fix Blue Screen of Death errors with these 4 software solutions

3. Delete the torrent file and all files associated with it

Sometimes in order to fix “System cannot find path” error on uTorrent you have to delete all files associated with that torrent. After deleting all the files, be sure to download the same torrent again and check if the problem is fixed. According to users, this error occurs due to incorrectly downloaded torrent file, so deleting the torrent and downloading it again usually fixes this issue.

4. Restart uTorrent

Sometimes the simplest solution is usually the best, and users reported that they managed to fix “System cannot find path” error on uTorrent simply by turning off the application and staring it again. This might not be the permanent solution, but it’s worth checking out.

5. Make sure that the destination folder isn’t set to Read-only

If your destination folder is set to Read-only you won’t be able to make any changes and create any new files in it, so we strongly suggest that you check the folder’s properties. To do that, do the following:

  1. Find your download folder, right click it and choose Properties from the menu.
    system-path-utorrent-open-properties
  2. Once the Properties window opens, go to the Attributes section and make sure that Read-only option isn’t checked.
    system-path-utorrent-read-only
  3. Click Apply and OK to save changes.

6. Manually set the download path

According to users, you can easily fix this problem by setting the download location for each individual torrent. To do that follow these simple steps:

  1. In uTorrent find the torrent that is giving you this error.
  2. Right-click the problematic torrent and choose Advanced > Set Download Location. Select the download folder.
  3. Repeat these steps for all problematic torrents.

Alternatively, you can just set a global download folder for all torrents by following these steps:

  1. Select Options > Preferences.
  2. Go to Directories tab and check Put new downloads in and select the desired directory.

7. Revert to the older version

Few users reported that this issue only occurs in the latest version of uTorrent, and according to them, after switching to the older version the issue was permanently fixed. This is one of the simplest solutions, so be sure to try it first.

8. Check for drive letter changes

According to users, sometimes the drive letter can change in the destination path in uTorrent so before starting the download be sure to double check it. If the letter is changed to nonexistent drive letter you won’t be able to store your torrent to that location.

“System cannot find path” error message in uTorrent can be quite frustrating, but as you can see this problem can be easily fixed by using one of our solutions.

How to Back Up MySQL Database Automatically

MySQL is a popular open-source database management system for the development of websites. If you have sensitive data stored in your database, you can back up the MySQL database automatically using third-party automation solutions.

Being able to automate the MySQL database backup process allows you to simplify the backup process without relying on your team to create backups every day manually.

In this article, we explore multiple ways to back up the MySQL database automatically.

How do I back up the MySQL database automatically?

1. Backup automatically on Linux

  1. Launch Cron on your Linux machine.
  2. Type or paste the following command and press Enter: 15 2 * * * root mysqldump -u root -pPASSWORD --all-databases | gzip > /mnt/disk2/database_`data '+%m-%d-%Y'`.sql.gz
  3. In the above command, 15 2 *** stands for the time when you want the backup to start. In this instance, it will run every day at 15:20.

If you are using Linux, you can use cron to back up your MySQL database automatically. Cron is a scheduling utility in the Linux operating system that can-do tasks like performing automatic backups or even renewing your SSL certificate.

The command will generate a compressed backup file every day named ‘database_MM_DD_YY.’ This will help you to organize the backup better.

2. Backup MySQL Database with phpMyAdmin

backup mysql database automatically
  1. Open phpMyAdmin from your hosting control panel.
  2. From the sidebar navigation panel of the phpMyAdmin, select Database.
  3. Click the g>Export link (top navigation bar).

This is a manual method of downloading your MySQL database file to your local drive for backup purposes.

You can back up the MySQL database automatically using the best SQL server backup tools. By backing up your database, you can easily fix MySQL Fatal error and other database issues.

Alternatively, you can also create a cron job to perform the backups automatically on a VPS server.

If you have any other suggestions or ideas, let us know about them in the comments section below.

Fix: Another Instance of The Application is Already Running

Computer errors will occur sooner or later, and while some computer errors are relatively harmless, others can prevent you from starting your applications.

One of these errors is Another instance is running error, and today we’ll show you how to fix it on Windows 10 & Windows 11.

How to fix the Another instance is running error?

1. Uninstall Ad-Aware Web Companion

According to users, this issue occurs every time Windows 10 starts, and it seems that the culprit is Ad-Aware. This is a solid anti-spyware tool, but like many other security tools it comes with Web Companion.

Users reported that Web Companion causes Another instance is running error to appear, and the only way to fix this problem is to uninstall the application.

To do that, follow these simple steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to System section and then choose Apps & features.
  3. List of all installed applications will appear. Select Web Companion app and click the Uninstall button to remove it. If you can’t find this application, you might have to remove Ad-Aware in order to fix the problem.

Users reported that removing Ad-Aware Web Companion fixes the problem, but we have to mention that almost any other tool can cause this error to appear.

If the issue still persists, or if you don’t use Ad-Aware at all, you might have to find the problematic application on your own and remove it.


2. Create a new user account

As we previously mentioned, almost any application can cause Another instance is running error to appear.

If you can’t find the problematic application, you might want to try creating a new Windows 10 user account.

To do that, you need to follow these simple steps:

  1. Open the Settings app and go to Accounts section.
  2. Navigate to Family & other people tab. In Other people section click on Add someone else to this PC button.

  3. Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
  4. Now click on Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  5. Enter the desired user name and password for the new user and click the Next button once you’re done.

After creating a new user account you need to log off and switch to it.

If the problem doesn’t appear on your new user account, you might want to consider switching to it and using it as your primary account.

3. Download the latest updates

Microsoft is working hard to address Windows 10 hardware and software issues, and most issues are fixed with Windows updates.

According to users, this issue can be fixed simply by installing the latest updates. Windows 10 installs updates automatically, but you can also check for updates manually if you want.

To do that, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open the Settings app and go to Update & security section.
  2. Click the Check for updates button and wait while Windows 10 downloads the available updates.

After downloading and installing the latest updates, check if the problem is resolved.


4. Stop the problematic processes

Users reported that this issues occurs while trying to install AutoCAD software. It seems that this problem is caused by another AutoCAD process running in the background, so to fix the problem you need to close that process.

This is a simple procedure, and you can do it by using Task Manager. To close the problematic process, do the following:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. When Task Manager starts, go to Processes tab and look for any AutoCAD process. Right click it and choose End Task from the menu. Repeat this for all AutoCAD processes.
  3. After ending all problematic processes, close Task Manager and check if the problem is resolved.

Keep in mind that this problem can affect almost any application and not just AutoCAD. Therefore be sure to close multiple instances of the problematic application and check if that solves the problem.

5. Reinstall the problematic application

According to users, Another instance is running error appears when they try to run a specific application. Many users reported that the error appears while trying to run a specific game on their PC.

If you’re having this error with any game or application, we recommend that you reinstall it completely. After reinstalling the problematic software, check if the problem is resolved.


6. Change the Startup type of Workstation service

Users reported that Another instance is running error appears while trying to install updates for certain Adobe products.

It seems that this error is related to Workstation service in Windows 10, and to fix it you need to change that service’s settings. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog. Enter services.msc and press Enter or click OK.
  2. Services window will now appear. Locate Workstation service and double click it to open its properties.
  3. Make sure that Startup type is set to Automatic.
  4. Check the Service status. If it isn’t set to Running, start the service by clicking the Start button.
  5. After changing the Startup type and starting the service, click Apply and OK to save changes.
  6. Close Services window and try to install the application again.

How can I fix the another instance is running error in League of Legends?

1. Close lolpatcher processes

Users reported Another instance is running error while trying to start League of Legends. According to them, the issue appears because lolpatcher application starts simultaneously with the game.

To fix this problem, you need to find and end all running lolpatcher processes. To do this, you’ll need to use Task Manager and find the problematic process in the Process tab.

We already explained how to end a process using Task Manager in one of our previous solutions, so be sure to check it for detailed instructions.

Few users reported that they had multiple League of Legends clients running, but after ending their processes the issue was completely resolved.

2. Run netsh command

If you’re getting Another instance is running error while trying to start League of Legends, you might be able to fix the problem by using Command Prompt.

Users reported that they fixed the issue simply by running netsh winsock reset command. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + X to open Win + X menu. Select Command Prompt (Admin) from the list of results.
  2. When Command Prompt starts, enter netsh winsock reset and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the command to execute and then close Command Prompt.
  4. Restart your PC.

After your PC restarts, try running LoL and check if the problem still persists.


3. Pin the League of Legends icon to your Taskbar

According to users, one potential solution is to pin League of Legends icon to your Taskbar and try to start it from there.

Users reported that two League of Legends icons appear in their Taskbar when they want to start it. According to them, you need to pin the new icon to your Taskbar and close the other one.

After doing that, go to Task Manager and close all processes related to the League of Legends. Lastly, start the game by using the pinned Taskbar icon.

Users also reported that you might have to click the icon couple of times before the game starts, so keep that in mind. This isn’t the best solution, but it’s a potential workaround, so you might want to try it out.

4. Run the game as administrator

If you’re getting Another instance is running error while trying to run League of Legends, you might want to try running it as administrator.

This is quite simple, and to do so you’ll need to find the application, right click it and choose Run as administrator from the menu.

If running the application as an administrator fixes the problem, you’ll have to repeat this process every time you want to start the game.

If none of the previous solutions work, you might have to reinstall League of Legends to fix the problem.



Another instance is running error will prevent your applications from starting, but you can fix the problem by ending the problematic application.

If that doesn’t work, feel free to try any other solution from this article.

How to Change CPU Fan Speed Without BIOS

Are you trying to change your CPU fan speed without BIOS? Here is everything you should know.

The CPU fan is an essential component of a computer that helps to keep the processor cool and prevent overheating.

However, sometimes the fan speed may need to be adjusted to better suit the system’s specific needs.

While most motherboards allow for fan speed control through the BIOS, there may be instances where access to the BIOS is impossible.

This guide explores changing the CPU fan speed without using the BIOS.

Can you manually control the fan speed?

Yes, it is possible to control the fan speed manually. There are many ways to do this, depending on the type of fan and the computer’s hardware and software.

There are several benefits to manually controlling the fan speed. A few of these include:

  • Improved cooling – By increasing the fan speed, you can improve the cooling of the CPU and prevent overheating. This is especially useful when you are running demanding applications or when you are overclocking the CPU.
  • Reduced noise – Lowering the fan speed can reduce the fan’s noise level, which can be beneficial if you use your computer in a quiet environment.
  • Power efficiency – By adjusting the fan speed, you can optimize the power consumption of your computer. Lowering the fan speed can reduce the power consumption of your computer, which can be beneficial if you are using a laptop or running your computer on battery power.
  • Increased lifespan of the components – By keeping the temperature of the CPU and other components in check, you can increase the lifespan of the parts.

So, let us now explore how to modify your fan speed on Windows PCs.

How can I modify my fan speed without accessing the BIOS?

1. Using third-party Software

  1. Download and install SpeedFan on your computer.
  2. Open SpeedFan and go to the Configure tab.
    Change CPU Fan Speed Without BIOS
  3. Under the Fan Control section, you will see a list of all the fans connected to your computer. You can select the fan you want to control in the drop-down menus.
  4. Select the fan that corresponds to your CPU fan and use the Minimum and Maximum sliders to adjust the fan speed.
  5. Click on the Apply button to save the changes.

2. Using the Control Panel

  1. Install third-party software that allows you to control the fan speed, such as SpeedFan or Argus Monitor.
  2. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
    Change CPU Fan Speed Without BIOS
  3. Use the cd command to navigate the folder where the third-party software is installed. For example, if you have installed SpeedFan in the C:\Program Files\SpeedFan folder, you would type the script below and hit Enter:
    cd C:\Program Files\SpeedFan
    Change CPU Fan Speed Without BIOS
  4. Once in the correct folder, you can use the software’s command-line options to control the fan speed. For example, in SpeedFan, you can use the following command to set the fan speed to 50%:
    SpeedFan.exe /fan:1 50

In the last script above, 1 is the fan number, and 50 is the fan speed in percentage.

Changing the CPU fan speed without using the BIOS is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using software-based fan control tools.

Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily adjust the fan speed to keep your computer running at optimal temperatures.

It’s important to remember that keeping your computer cool is crucial for maintaining the longevity of the internal components.

5 Best SQL Server Backup Software [Free & Paid]

SQL servers are currently the de facto method of managing large amounts of data. Companies use them all the time, and even common users can find them extremely handy for personal use.

The main purpose of SQL Server is to store and retrieve information from the local or remote computer.

Why do I need a tool to back up my SQL Server?

Given that they act as both management systems and storage locations for your data, it goes without saying that backing them up from time to time is a vital process.

However, in the likely event that the data that you are managing is of vital importance, it is obvious that you cannot use just any backup software.

That is precisely why we’ve decided to create a list of the best SQL server backup software on the market. The entries have been ranked based on their toolset, how easy they are to use, their backup efficiency, and their price.

Speaking of which, we’ve also decided to include both paid and free products, to fit anyone’s budget.

What are the best SQL server backup software?

Acronis Cyber Backup – Enhanced backup validation

Topping out our list is a software tool that is trusted by over 500.000 companies around the world.

In case you are wondering what makes this tool so desirable, the answer is just how simple it is to use so that you don’t have to waste any time, and focus on what’s really important.

In fact, all you need is just 3 clicks to proceed with a backup, and depending on the amount of data that needs backing up, and how fast your hardware is, it takes around 15 seconds for the process to complete.

It features enhanced backup validation and blockchain-based authentication of your backups.

Meanwhile, thanks to Acronis Notary, Acronis Backup is the most reliable backup solution for your SQL servers on the market today.

Here are some of its key features:

  • Minimalist UI
  • 3-click backup process
  • Blockchain-based authentication
  • Reliable data protection and backup
  • Now available at a special discount price

Handy Backup – Easy to use

The next entry on our list is yet another reliable tool used for SQL backups for both personal and enterprise use. Handy Backup is focused on providing quality backup services.

What makes it stand out among other similar tools is that Unlike SQL Server backup software utilizing ODBC drivers, Handy Backup works with the DBMS directly via the MSSQL backup plug-in.

Because of this, it lets you save SQL databases along with all of the views, indexes, stored procedures, and more.

More so, it is also very versatile in terms of what versions of SQL it supports, since it provides support to the following versions: Backup SQL Server 2005, 2008, 2012, 2014, and 2016.

Those of you that are also very busy might be happy to know that Handy Backup also comes with a backup scheduling feature so that they can be performed even when you are away.

Some of its main features include:

  • Supports all versions of SQL server
  • Can schedule backups
  • Greate backup fidelity
  • Easy-to-use
  • Frequently updated

NovaBackup – Great storage options

Last, but not least, is yet another server backup service that shows great promise both in terms of efficiency and price.

NovaBackup is not only a good server backup tool, but it also has great potential as a generic backup tool as well. You can use it to backup data on your PC and laptop.

The backups can then be stored on Local Disk, NAS, Single Tape, and RDX. More so, you can rest assured that an extra copy will also be stored on the NovaBACKUP Cloud.

The backup process is really simple. You just have to open the NovaBackup software, select the server you want to backup and the location you want to store it in.

You can also create a schedule for regular backups. The process automatically starts at a pre-established time that works best for you.

Check out some of its key features:

  • Backup and restore SQL Server in the cloud
  • Comes with a free trial
  • Supports VMware and Hyper-V
  • You get Free Upgrades
NovaBackup

NovaBackup

Your SQL databases will now be safer thanks to this software that provides constant backups.
Check priceVisit website

Iperius Backup – Secure data encryption

Iperius is yet another reliable tool for anyone that needs to focus on other duties while keeping their SQL server databases constantly updated.

With a rich array of tools, Iperius allows anyone to back up any type of data, ranging from Drive Image, VMware ESXi, Hyper-V, or even Exchange.

More so, the backup process is extremely handy as far as storage location goes, since you can back up to NAS, USB drives, FTP, Cloud, S3, and more.

Last, but not least, you also know that your data is safe since the system comes with both Ransomware protection, as well as AES 256-bit secure encryption.

Take a look at some of its best features:

  • Supports Windows Server 2019, 2016, 2008, and 2012
  • Capable of hard disk cloning and recovery drive creation
  • Open file backup (VSS)
  • Now available at a discount price

⇒ Get Iperius Backup

Idera SQL Safe Backup – Great for compression and encryption

Idera SQL Safe Backup showcases great accessibility when it comes to how you can use it. The interface is pretty straightforward, and if you know what an SQL server is, then knowing how to use this tool will be second nature.

It works fast and allows you to save space thanks to the dynamic compression with encryption, and when it comes time to recover from a backup, you can choose from multiple options for recovery.

Temporary network failures will be a thing of the past since the program ensures that failures will happen far less often, and managing your SQL server will be much easier thanks to the dashboard, built-in alert system, and more.

Let’s review a few of its key features:

  • Backup and restore SQL Server in the cloud
  • Comes with a free trial
  • Fast and efficient
  • Can be used by users of all levels

⇒ Get Idera SQL Safe Backup

That pretty much wraps up our list of the best 5 SQL server backup tools that you can get. We hope that you find the list useful and that you will find a tool that suits your needs entirely.

You might also be interested to read our guide on how to repair a corrupted database in SQL Server.

If you want to learn more about such tools, leave us a message in the comments section below.

5 Best Pixel Painting Software for Windows 10/11

The resurgence of pixel art among popular artists have given this art concept a much-required boost.

Apart from digital artists, pixel art is still a popular choice amongst the game developers.

If you are a budding digital artist or game developer looking to create stunning pixel art pieces, a crucial tool you need is a painting program to compliment your painting and drawing skills.

That said, choosing a tool to get started with pixel painting can be challenge.

This is why we have put together the best pixel painting software to help you decide the best program that offers a perfect balance between features and price to get your pixel painting journey started.

What are the best pixel painting software?

Adobe Photoshop – Best portrait features

photoshop problems windows 10

When it comes to image manipulation, Adobe Photoshop is the industry standard. From photo editing and compositing to digital painting, animation and graphic design,

Photoshop can do it all on your desktop and portable devices like iPad.

Latest Photoshop version comes with improved AI technology that helps you colourize a scene, zoom in on parts of an image, remove scratches from the object and even change expression, age or pose with little effort.

Apart from easy masking and portrait editing features, Photoshop offers thousands of brushes in different style and texture. You can also create custom brushes using the built-in tool kit.

Key features of Adobe Photoshop:

  • Excellent set of image manipulation tools
  • Adobe Sensei and improved AI
  • Easy to use and lots of tutorials
  • Cross-platform compatibility and cloud storage

Adobe Photoshop

Pixel art, manga, sketches, pretty much everything can be done with Photoshop and the right plugins installed!
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Clip Studio Paint – Easy tool for beginners

ClipStudio Paint best drawing apps for Windows 11

If you are on a budget or just getting started with pixel painting and don’t want splurge on a painting program, Clip Studio Paint is an excellent choice. It offers plenty of vectors and brush tools to help you create a professional-looking drawing without breaking your bank.

If you have invested in a drawing tablet, you will feel home as Clip Studio Paint supports drawing tablets and can detect up to 8192 levels of pen pressure helping you feel every nuances of the design.

Clip Studio Paint also offers over 1000 new materials every month on its Assets section. You can also customize every aspect of your brushes for a limitless supply of tools.

Key features of Clip Studio Paint:

  • Excellent value for money
  • Powerful editing tools for the price
  • Easy to use and intuitive controls
  • Customizable brushes

Clip Studio Paint

Art is not something everyone can get into, but with Clip Studio Paint, creating art will no longer be so exclusive.
Free trial Visit website

CorelDRAW

Professional graphic design software for Windows, CorelDRAW is an excellent vector illustration, layout, and photo editing tool.

It features over 25+ new features and enhancements. With the subscription plan, you can collaborate with clients and colleagues to review work and submit feedback online.

The latest version of CorelDRAW features cutting edge typography enhancements to showcase text beautifully by formatting paragraphs and more.

From creating blueprints, maps & schematics, to creating signage and large-format print to apparel design, CorelDRAW comes with required tools to create artwork for a variety of industries.

Key features of CorelDRAW:

  • Fun and easy to use for beginners and professionals
  • Highly customizable interface
  • A good collection of editing tools
  • Both subscription and non-subscription plan

CorelDRAW

Pixel art is supposed to be fun and whimsical, so you need a tool that can make things easy for you when you design things.
Free trial Visit website

Autodesk Maya

Create expansive worlds, complex characters, and dazzling effects with Autodesk Maya.

If you are a game developer, it allows to you create realistic effects, bring believable characters to life with engaging and animation tools and shape 3D objects and scenes with intuitive modeling.

The new version of the Autodesk Maya sees a host of new features and improved performances and some most requested Remesh and Retopology tools.

Autodesk Maya comes with Arnold 6, allowing you to switch seamlessly between CPU and GPU rendering, manage complex characters, scenery and light challenges, and see high-quality previews.

Key features of Autodesk Maya:

  • Improved artists friendly UI intuitive controls
  • Switch between GPU and CPU rendering with Arnold 6
  • New matrix-driven rigging tools
  • Improved Remesh and Retopology tools

Autodesk Maya

While many may not associate Autodesk’s Maya with pixel art, this graphics editor can easily do that as well.
Free trial Visit website

Krita

Krita is an open-source desktop painting application designed for illustrators, concept artists, illustrators, comic book creator and texture artists.

While it is an open-source program, you can support the developer by purchasing it from Microsoft Store.

Similar to Clip Studio Paint, Krita also features support for Wacom drawing tablet with accurate pen pressure. It also comes with some great brush engines for sketching and painting.

Additionally, Krita also offers features like stabilizers for freehand inking, assistants for constructing a complex scene, a distraction-free canvas-only mode for painting without distraction, clone layer, filter and transform masks non-destructive editing.

Key features of Krita:

  • Excellent value
  • Excellent brush engines and painting tools
  • Distraction-free canvas-only mode
  • Clean user interface

Krita

This open-source product is also available as a Windows 10 app with auto-update features.
Check price Visit website

With the increase in the users of pixel art as a method of creating digital art for game developments, stills and even animations, spotting the right tools for pixel painting can be difficult at times.

Explore the tools listed in this article to see what these programs can offer. Many of these tools also offer a free limited trial so that you can try them out before making a purchase.

Expression.Error: Access to the Resource is Forbidden: Fix

Power BI enables users to set up charts and visualizations from external data sources. First, they need to connect Power BI with their external data.

However, some users have stated that an Expression.Error: Access to the resource is forbidden error message pops up when they try to connect Power BI with data resources.

Consequently, users can’t connect the data resource with Power BI, so let’s see how this can be solved.

How can I fix the Expression.Error: Access to the resource is forbidden error?

1. Reset the data connection to re-enter credentials

  1. To do that, click the File tab at the top left of Power BI.
  2. Then, click Options and settings on the menu.
  3. Select Data Source Settings to open the window shown directly below.Data source settings window power bi error access to the resource is forbidden
  4. Select the data source the Access to the resource is forbidden error arises for.
  5. Then select the Clear Permissions option on the drop-down menu.
  6. Press the Close button.
  7. Thereafter, users can re-enter their credentials when they try to connect the required data sources.

Some users have confirmed that resetting the data connections for data sources fixed the Access to the resource forbidden error.

Assuming you need help as well, don’t hesitate to apply the above procedure.


2. Select an alternative log-in option to connect to data

The Access to the resource is forbidden error can also arise when users select the wrong log-in options to connect their data sources with on the Access a window.

For example, users trying to connect SharePoint Online via Power BI Desktop might need to select the Organizational account log-in option instead of Windows on the window shown directly below.

Access on options power bi error access to the resource is forbidden


So, try selecting an alternative log-in option through which to enter the log-in credentials.

Those are a few of the confirmed resolutions users have fixed the Expression.Error: Access to the resource is forbidden error with. Let us know if you’ve tried any other solutions in the comments area below.

Quick Access Missing From File Explorer: 3 Quick Fixes

The Quick Access feature in Windows 10 provides a convenient way to access your frequently opened folders and recently opened files.

While some may find it distracting, it is a handy feature for many. However, some users have reported that their Quick Access section is deleted or files missing from their Quick Access section in the Microsoft Community Forums.

I accidentally removed a file used daily from the Recent Files section of Quick Access. I’d like to have it back in the Recent Files section to make it easily accessible, but opening and closing it does not return it there. Is there a way to allow this file back in Quick Access or is it forever banished?

Here are a couple of ways to restore the missing Quick Access folder in Windows 10.

What do I do if Quick Access is Missing?

1. Restore the Quick Access Folder

  1. Open the File Explorer from the Taskbar.
  2. In the File Explorer, click on the View tab.
  3. Click the Options drop-down menu and select “Change folder and search options“. It will open the Folder Options window.
    Folder Options - File Explorer
  4. In the General tab, make sure “Open File Explorer To:” to is set to Quick Access.
  5. In the Privacy Section, check “Show recently used files in Quick Access” and “Show frequently used folders in Quick Access” options.
  6. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
  7. Close the Folder Options window and the File Explorer.
  8. Open “File Explorer” again and check if the Quick Access folder is visible.

2. Reset Folders

  1. Open the File Explorer app from the taskbar.
  2. Click the View tab in the ribbon menu and then click on Options.
  3. Select “Change folder and search options“. This will open the Folder Options window.
  4. Go to the View tab.
  5. Under “Folder Views” click on the Reset Folders button
  6. Click Yes when asked to confirm.
  7. Close the Folder Options and File Explorer window.
  8. Relaunch File Explorer and check if the issues related to your Quick Access menu is resolved.

3. Reset File Explorer from the Command Prompt

  1. Type cmd in the search. Right-click on Command Prompt and click on Run as Administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt type the following command and hit enter.
    del /F /Q %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\AutomaticDestinations\*
  3. Open the File Explorer and check again.

We hope you managed to fix the Quick Access missing issue on your PC and can use it properly now. If a folder is still missing, check the attributes.

Let us know how it went in the comments section below.

7 Best Drawing Software for Beginners in 2026

As most artists are learning how to use and integrate digital services into their work, there is no wonder the interest in drawing apps has increased lately.

There are many advantages to using drawing software but is also known that most of the programs can consume so much time in learning how to use which makes many artists feel reluctant in giving it a try.

Luckily, there are software designed for beginners also and in this article, we will show you some of the best apps to use, so keep on reading.

What is the easiest drawing for beginners?

The key to drawing as a beginner is to draw items that interest you because it is more presumably to stick with them, hence you will practice more.

The easiest drawing can be pictures like trees, flowers, leaves, faces and expressions, food, and other simple objects which you can design with the help of specialized tools like Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, and Rebelle.

These kinds of tools offer various helpful features such as customizable brushes, complete color palettes, color and luminance range masking, and many more.

Adobe Photoshop – Fantastic brush features

best software for calligraphy

Adobe Photoshop has made a name for itself and artists widely use it. No wonder why since it is continuously improved and the fantastic features it comes with do make it our number one choice also.

You can add new features constantly and use the basic text pencil with one of the many textures and colors available.

Adobe Photoshop is perfect for beginners also using the brushes to draw or paint is fairly easy and you’ll be able to create the masterpiece you always envisioned.

Let’s have a look at some of its best features:

  • Fantastic brush features
  • Color and luminance range masking
  • Digital painting tools: create, use and edit layers
  • Cloud storage

Adobe Photoshop

Create masterpiece art with this amazing app that is suitable for both professionals and beginners.
Free Trial Visit Website

Clip Studio Paint – Unlimited painting styles

Clip Studio Paint is another one of our recommendations for a perfect drawing app to use as a beginner user.

This app has been created for artists that love to draw and is offering a natural brush feel that will help you envision and create the work art in the way you want it.

Thanks to the 8192 levels of pen pressure you will be able to create every stroke on your drawing exactly as you imagine it and won’t have to compromise at all the final result.

Moreover, Clip Studio Paint brings 1000 new materials monthly, allowing you to customize the brushes as needed and it offers a limitless supply of tools.

Here are some other best features of Clip Studio Paint:

  • Unlimited painting styles
  • Easy color selection
  • AI colorization
  • Hundreds of decoration brushes

Clip Studio Paint

Software designed to bring your envisioned work of art to life with a great set of features.
Free Trial Visit Website

Corel Painter – Amazing brush control

There is no better app to use in order to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of digital drawing than Corel Painter.

If you are looking for natural, professional results in less time and with a smooth transition, make sure to give this app a try.

You can use papers, flow maps, patterns, and even textures. The artificial intelligence available will easily transform any photo you want into a painting.

If the composition was your concern or the customization pallet available, you will have the possibility to customize your painter using the UI, custom pallets, brushes, and media content.

Other best features of Corel Painter you might want to know:

  • Brush control
  • Composition tools
  • Lightning and surface textures
  • Color mixing

Corel Painter

Discover natural and professional results with this fantastic app.
Free Trial Visit Website

Rebelle 6 – Dripping effects

Rebelle 6 is an award-winning painting software with unique oils, acrylics, watercolors, and other wet and dry forms.

It has NanoPixel technology, watercolor diffusion, and paint pigments that help you make your drawing into a hyper-realistic painting.

Rebelle 6 is created not only for professionals but for everyone who wants to explore its passion for drawing using digital technology.

You can create beautiful artwork by choosing how the light impacts your drawing with watercolors, macro-zoom into your canvas, and sharpen your details.

Take a look at other best features of Rebelle 6:

  • Dripping effects
  • Customizable paper texture
  • Masking tools
  • Brush line stabilization

Rebelle 6

Create amazing artwork with customizable paper texture and brush line control features.
Check price Visit Website

Adobe Fresco – Essential illustration tools

Adobe Fresco is an outstanding drawing and painting program with the largest collection of vector and raster brushes to offer you the best digital painting experience.

You can work with blendable watercolors and oils, an advanced selection of brushes, and live brushes that can mimic life-like paintings.

You can customize the application interface and draw in full-screen mode to keep a distraction-free experience.

Furthermore, Adobe Fresco offers a full set of features including liquifying effects, a magic wand color tool, multicolor swatches, and motion path effects.

Other best features of Adobe Fresco include:

  • Distortion effects
  • Cloud integration
  • Customizable UI
  • 3D effects

Adobe Fresco

Get the most out of your digital painting experience and try Adobe Fresco.
Free Trial Visit Website

Artrage Vitae – Collaborative painting option

Artrage Vitae is a great digital artwork program with a complete range of painting tools like delicate watercolors, thick oils, and full sets of pencils.

You can sketch and work with guides, grids, and perspective layout tools and blend oils to create natural-looking color gradients.

Artrage Vitae offers a collaborative painting option so you can create artwork with your friends where you can see their changes and vice-versa.

Moreover, you can enable the horizontal or vertical view that lets you paint across your canvas edges without any effort.

You might want to see these other best features of Artrage Vitae:

  • Paintlink messaging
  • Realistic painting tools
  • Custom brush paint with depth
  • Easy to use

Artrage Vitae

You can now create beautiful paintings with your friends by using Artrage Vitae’s features.
Check Price Visit Website

Krita – Clean and flexible interface

The last but certainly not the least drawing app that we recommend using if you are a beginner is Krita.

This app offers multiple features, most of the innovative, that are designed to make painting fun as well as productive.

You can choose great brushes for sketching and painting, stabilizers for inking, assistants for constructing complex scenes, and clone layers. Basically, all you can think of, you already have in this app.

All in all, Krita is a fantastic and innovative app, constantly improved by a team of enthusiastic artists that want to make this the best digital painting application.

Other best features of Krita:

  • Great brush engines
  • Clean and flexible interface
  • Customizable layout
  • Dark and light color themes

Krita

A digital drawing app created by artists with innovative features and fully customizable tools.

We hope that all the details offered in our list will help you make the best decision on which drawing app to use.

If you have other recommendations or suggestions, we would love to hear them in the comments section below.

How to Show File Extensions in Windows 10: Step-by-Step

Windows 10, by default, hides the file extension from the user view in File Explorer to keep the directory clean. However, you may sometimes need it to show file extensions in Windows 10.

It also helps you find the right program to open a file if Windows cannot recognize the right program to run the file. This article has put together multiple methods to show file extensions in Windows 10.

How can I see file extensions in Windows 10?

1. Use Windows File Explorer

  1. Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
  2. Make sure the Ribbon (top) is maximized, and you can see the File, Home, Share, and View tabs.
  3. Click on the View tab.
  4. Check the File name extensions box under the Show/Hide section.
    File Explorer - View - Show Hide - file Extension
  5. Now, if you open any folder, you should be able to view the file name, followed by the extension for all the files.

    2. Show File Extensions using Control Panel

    Using Control Panel settings, you can easily configure Windows to show file extensions so you know the exact type of each file.

  1. 1. Press the Windows key + R

  2. 2. Type control and press OK.

    control show file extensions windows 10
  3. 3. Click on the Appearance and Personalization tab.

    Control Panel - Personalization and appearances
  4. 4. Click on  File Explorer Options.

    File Explorer Options
  5. 5. In the File Explorer Options window, click on the View tab.

  6. 6. Under Advanced Settings, scroll down and uncheck the box Hide extensions for known file types.

    File Explorer Options - View tab- Show Extension
  7. 7. Click Apply and click OK to save the changes. Windows 10 should show file extensions in File Explorer now.

3. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type regedit, and click OK.
    regedit
  2. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path in the left pane: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
  3. In the right pane, look for the HideFileExt DWORD value.HideFileExt- Registry Editor
  4. Right-click on HideFileExt DWORD and select Modify.
  5. In the value data, type 0 and click OK.
    Edit HideFuleExt - value 0
  6. Close the registry editor and check if Windows 10 shows file extensions.

Another method to show your file extensions is to use the Registry Editor. This changes the DWORD responsible for showing your file extension on Windows 10.

We hope that our solutions helped you be able to show file types and extensions in Windows 10. You can also show your file extensions on Windows using CMD, PowerShell, and Group Policy Editor (GPO).

But the solutions here are the simplest to apply. Ensure you follow the steps carefully and that things are back to normal.

If you want to know how to change file type on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to do it quickly.

In case you want to open the SDR format files or ADOC files on your Windows 11 computer, we have separate guides for you.

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

Resetting This PC Stuck [Factory Reset]: 4 Quick Fixes

Windows 10 has been around for quite some time, and if the statistics are to be believed, Windows 10 has been installed on over 200 million devices since its launch.

Now, no system in this world is perfect, right? The same is the case with Windows 10.

Even Windows 10 has some bugs that make users run into problems that are hard to solve, but thanks to Microsoft, these bugs are being worked on as soon as they are found.

Why is my PC stuck on Resetting this PC screen?

Some users have been stuck while performing a reset. Here are a few known causes:

  • Corrupted files – Important Windows 10 system files that have been lost or deleted may prevent your PC from being reset.
  • Hardware failure – If you have issues with your hard disk, RAM, etc., you may get this reset error.
  • Outdated or bad drivers – Drivers link software and hardware components. Once they are outdated, you may expect varying problems, including the factory reset stuck.
  • A bad installation – In this case, you should note that your downloaded installation may be bad, and you will need a fresh download.

What does factory reset mean and what kind of problems do users encounter?

The factory reset feature allows you to save your data from deletion while retaining the same OS and license you had so far. Therefore, this is a great way to fix many problems on your PC, but sometimes the reset process can get stuck.

Here are some common variations that users reported:

  • HP laptop, Dell, ASUS factory reset stuck – This issue can occur on various laptops, and if you encounter it, remove your laptop battery and insert it back again.
  • Resetting this PC stuck at 35 – The reset process can get stuck at any time, and if the reset is stuck, you might just have to wait for a couple of hours for the reset to finish.
  • Surface Pro 4 factory reset stuck – This issue can happen on Surface Pro 4, but you can fix that by using the solutions from this article.
  • Factory reset computer stuck – If this happens, you might be able to fix the problem simply by using the Startup Repair feature.
  • Factory reset stuck boot loop – In some cases, the only way to fix this problem is to perform a clean install. If you decide to do that, be sure to back up your files beforehand.

One of the many bugs that Windows 10 is plagued by is that some users seem to get stuck while resetting Windows 10. In this post, we will see below how to fix this issue.

How do I fix a PC stuck on resetting this pc screen?

Before starting this with any of the solutions, Here are a few things you must note:

  • There are cases where you will need to wait it out. A factory reset can sometimes take a while, so patience is key.
  • Disconnecting your internet may help because your computer may appear stuck after the reset if it can not successfully download certain updates.

1. Repair the computer

  1. Open the Start menu, press down Shift, and hit the Restart button.
    factory reset stuck
  2. When the options screen comes up, select Troubleshoot.
    factory reset stuck
  3. Click Advanced options.
  4. Choose Startup Repair, and select Restart.

This repair may take a while, so you should patiently wait it out and try the reset afterward.

2. Run your File Checker

  1. Click on Windows search and type command prompt. Now right-click on the Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
    factory reset stuck
  2. Type the script below and hit Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Await the scan’s completion at 100%. During this procedure, avoid closing the Command Prompt or turning off your computer because doing so could cause the progression to be reset.
  4. Try resetting your computer after restarting it.

If for some reason these manual steps don’t help you, we suggest you try using a specialized tool to do the job for you.

3. Restore the computer

  1. Click on the Windows Start menu, type restore and select Create a restore point.
  2. Click the System Restore button.
    factory reset stuck
  3. Select Next when prompted.
  4. Pick a time you wish to return to (after updates and software installations, your system could automatically generate restore points). Then click Next after deciding on an appropriate starting point.
  5. Retry the factory reset and see if it is still stuck.

4. Reinstall Windows 10

If nothing else works, and your PC is still stuck during a factory reset, your only option might be to perform a clean install of Windows 10.

To do that, we advise you to back up your files from the C drive just to be safe.

It would be best if you did this as a last resort because, in most cases, the above-mentioned solutions would be effective enough.

These solutions have been very useful for many users. You should, however, pick the most appropriate solution and work your way from there.

Lastly, if you have any other suggestions or questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below, and we’ll be sure to check them out.

Shorted Out Motherboard: Why It Happens & How Can You Fix It

Wondering how to fix a shorted-out motherboard? This article includes everything you need to know on this topic.

A shorted-out motherboard can be a frustrating and costly problem for any computer user.

A short circuit on the motherboard can cause damage to other components and can even lead to a complete failure of the system.

So, in this article, we will explore the causes of a shorted-out motherboard and discuss some ways you can fix it.

What causes a shorted motherboard?

There are a few elements that will trigger a shorted motherboard, some of which include the following factors:

  • Overheating of components – If the components on the motherboard, such as the CPU or GPU, become too hot, they can cause a short circuit. This can happen if the cooling system needs fixing or has so much workload.
  • Power surge – A sudden increase in voltage can cause a short circuit on the motherboard, damaging the components. This can happen if there is a power outage or you connect your device to a faulty power source.
  • Water damage – If the motherboard is exposed to water or moisture, it can cause a short circuit. This can happen if the system is in a humid environment or if there is a leak in the case.
  • Physical damage – If the motherboard is damaged due to impact or other physical means, it can cause a short circuit. This can happen due to a dropping or a manufacturing defect in the motherboard.
  • Corrosion  The motherboard will short circuit if exposed to corrosive materials, such as chemicals or salt. This can happen if you use the system in a harsh industrial environment or if there is a leak in the cooling system.
  • Bad capacitors – If the capacitors on the motherboard are faulty or damaged, they can cause a short circuit. This can happen if the capacitors are of poor quality or have reached the end of their lifespan.

Now let us explore some crucial solutions if you face this problem.

What should I do if I have a shorted-out motherboard?

1. Determine the source of the short 

The first step in fixing a shorted-out motherboard is to identify the source of the problem. This can be done by visually inspecting the board for any obvious signs of damage, such as burned or melted components.

fix Shorted Out Motherboard

If there is no visible damage, you can use a multimeter to test for continuity between various parts of the board, such as the power connectors and the ground.

2. Isolate the problem area 

Once you have identified the source of the short, you need to isolate the problem by disconnecting any connected components, such as the CPU, RAM, and power supply.

This will help you to access the problem area better and make it easier to repair.

3. Replace damaged components

If you find any damaged components, such as a burned-out capacitor or a shorted diode, you will need to replace them. For example, purchasing replacement components from an electronics store or online after a Google search.

Be sure to use the correct replacement components, as using the wrong parts can cause further damage to the motherboard.

4. Clean the motherboard 

Once you have replaced any damaged components, you should clean the motherboard with a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated.

This will help to ensure that the board is free of any contaminants that may have contributed to the short.

5. Test the motherboard

After cleaning, reassemble the components and test the motherboard to ensure it functions correctly. If the board is still not working, you may need to repeat the above steps or seek professional help.

Moving forward, keep your computer in a cool and dry place and avoid using the computer in a dusty environment. Also, properly ground the internal components to prevent static electricity from building up.

In conclusion, a shorted-out motherboard can be caused by various elements, including physical damage, voltage surges, and even humidity.

If you suspect that your motherboard may be shorted out, taking action as soon as possible is essential to prevent further damage.

Remember that it may be best to seek professional assistance if you are not comfortable working with the inner components of your computer. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can prevent a shorted-out motherboard and keep your computer running smoothly for years to come.

Windows 10 Just A Moment Blue Screen: Fix

Microsoft, not surprisingly, is pushing hard to see higher uptake of its latest Windows 10 versions. Fortunately for most, the upgrade process too has been largely hassle free. However, there are also those for whom things haven’t just played out in a copybook manner, with a common grouse being things getting stuck during the closing stages of Windows 10 installation.

The error has come to be referred as the ‘Just a moment‘ error, and is characterised by the dreaded Windows 10 blue screen displaying the above message. Sure there is the spinning ball animation that you can keep yourself engaged with though things easily becomes frustrating after a while, more so if this continues for hours on end.

Fortunately, like with most other things, there is a fix to the above situation. Read on to find out.

How can I fix the Windows 10 Just a Moment blue screen?

The first preliminary solution to try out before using more advanced methods of troubleshooting this issue is performing a hard shutdown on your PC. Basically, you need to press on the Power button for a couple of seconds until the PC shuts down, and then restart it.

If this doesn’t work, you can simply disconnect your PC from the power source instead to force it to close.

1. Check if your computer has locked up and is not responding

The first thing for you to do will be to ensure your computer has indeed stopped working. For this, see if your PC is making any noise, which should be a clear sign your processor is at work. A flickering light is another tell-tale sign of your processor being hard at work.

If that be the case, try not to tinker with the installation process. There are several factors like the speed of your internet connection, available disk space, processor speed or memory size that can have a direct bearing on your installation time.

However, if you are sure your PC has fallen silent and has indeed got stuck at the seemingly infinite loop displaying the ‘Just a moment’ message, there are a few things you can do to set things back on track.

Unplug all USB devices attached to the PC, which should include even the keyboard and mouse along with the printer or any USB drive.

Disable all network connection, which means turning off Wi-Fi along with disconnecting any internet cable attached to the PC.

Reconnect the mouse and keyboard and see if you can gain control of the PC. If it does, establish internet connectivity again and see if the installation process gets started.

However, in case none of the above works than you might have to perform a hard reboot (press and hold on to the power button until your system shuts down or restarts on its own). In most cases, this should fix the issue and for the rest of the installation to proceed normally.

2. Go for a fresh installation of Windows 10

If the above steps have yielded a null, opt for installing Window 10 again. This should rewrite all the files again and hopefully, avoid the situation that led it to freeze at the ‘Just a moment’ screen. So if you have the bootable Windows 10 installation either in a disk or a USB, insert/attach it to the PC and restart.

In case you are attempting a new installation using a bootable USB drive, you might have to change the boot order from BIOS to prioritise loading from the USB drive above all else. To get into BIOS, press F2 when the computer restarts and change boot order to ensure USB drive appears first. However, the computer restarts several times during installation. Change the boot order subsequently to allow hard drive being at the top.

3. Boot into Audit Mode

It is not unusual for your installation to freeze at the ‘Just a moment’ screen when you are attempting loading from a syspreped image of Windows 10.

In such a scenario a proven way to prevent the above error to creep in will be to boot into Audit Mode right at the start when your system boots and before you select ‘Use Express Setting’. Press Ctrl+Shift+F3 to get into Audit Mode. Thereafter, add / remove software and then sysprep OOBE.

So that is it. This should serve as a comprehensive guide to prevent the Windows 10 Just a Moment blue screen.