Ark Won’t Launch: How to Fix If it’s Crashing on Startup

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

ARK: Survival Evolved is a popular action game that gained massive popularity during the last few years. Of course, the game has its fair share of issues, and in this article, we’ll see how to fix those issues in Windows 10.

ARK: Survival Evolved players have experienced low frame rates, graphical glitches, crashes, freezing loading screens, and many other problems, so let’s see how to fix these problems.

How can I solve ARK crashes, low FPS, and glitches?

1. Update your drivers

There are reports saying that ARK: Survival Evolved suffers from crashes. According to this information, the game crashes on startup while loading, or it displays a black screen before it crashes.

This makes the game almost unplayable, and so far, the only solution is to update your drivers and try to run the game again.

Updating drivers manually is very annoying so we strongly recommend you download and install Outbyte Driver Updater to do it automatically.

Thus, you will prevent file loss and even permanent damage to your computer by downloading and installing the wrong driver versions.

You don’t even have to click on anything because when you open the program, it automatically starts scanning your drive for any problems with your drivers.

After a few minutes, Outbyte Driver Updater will provide you with a list of recommended drivers to update.

That’s the only part where you have to intervene and decide which drivers to install separately or if you want to update all of them by clicking on the Select All box from the top of the list.

As you might have imagined, for individual installation, you need to check the corresponding box from the left of the drivers’ names and click the install button from their right.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Updating your drivers automatically by using DriveFix will hopefully bring you back to playing your beloved ARK game in no time!
Free trial Visit website

2. Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables

It has been reported that ARK: Survival Evolved comes with certain graphical glitches such as green water and black sky. This looks quite unnatural in the game, but there’s a way to fix that:

  1. Go to SteamSteamAppscommonARK_CommonRedistvcredist
  2. Run all the installers that you have in that folder to reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables.
  3. Start the game and check if the issue has been resolved.

3. Cancel the download or restart Steam

This is a minor problem, but it has been reported that the game gets stuck downloading at 99%.

To fix this, you can simply cancel the download and the game will automatically finish downloading, or you can simply restart Steam.

4. Run the game in compatibility mode

  1. Right-click the ARK: Survival Evolved shortcut and choose Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.Run this program in Compatibility mode
  3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for and choose Windows 7 Service Pack 1 from the list.
  4. Click Apply and OK to save your changes.
  5. Try running the game again.

5. Make sure that you’re running a 64-bit version of Windows 10

If the game won’t start on your computer, this might be due to the 32-bit version of Windows 10.

ARK: Survival Evolved is designed to work with 64-bit operating systems. If you’re using a 32-bit operating system and you really want to play ARK: Survival Evolved, maybe you should consider switching to a 64-bit version of Windows.

6. Set your View Distance to Epic

If you’re having frame rate issues while playing ARK: Survival Evolved, maybe you should change View Distance to Epic in the game options.

We have to admit that this solution seems a bit unusual, but it seems that developers have optimized Epic settings in the game, and users have reported better performance after changing View Distance to Epic.

This might not work for you, but it’s a still solution worth trying.

7. Change the Launch Options

  1. Open Steam and find ARK: Survival Evolved in your library.
  2. Right-click ARK: Survival Evolved and choose Properties.
  3. In the General tab click the Set the Launch Options button.
  4. Enter -USEALLAVAILABLECORES -sm4 -d3d10 in the input field and save the changes.

Note: ARK: Survival Evolved is quite a demanding game, and when you run it you’ll have a list of options to choose from.

If you have 16GB or more of RAM just select Play ARK: Survival Evolved.

If you have 4 to 8GB of RAM select Launch ARK (Low Memory 4GB).

In case you have less than 4GB RAM select Launch ARK (Extremely Low Memory).

ark-survival-evolved-launch

In addition, you might want to experiment with different values of graphical settings in order to get the best performance.

8. Select a PhysX processor

  1. Open Nvidia Control Panel.
  2. Go to 3D Settings and click on Set PhysX configuration.
  3. Select PhysX processor and choose your graphic card instead of auto-select option.
  4. Save the changes and try running the game again.

9. Change TdrDelay using Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows Key + RB, type regedit, and press Enter to run the Registry Editor.
  2. In the left panel navigate to the following key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMControlSet002ControlGraphicsDrivers
  3. In the right pane, create a new DWORD if you own 32-bit version of Windows or QWORD if you use 64-bit version of Windows. Name the new DWORD or QWORD TdrDelay.
  4. Double click the TdrDelay and change its value to 8 or 10.
    registry_tdr
  5. Close the Registry Editor and try running the game again.

Note: TDR stands for Timeout Detection and Recovery, and this feature is in charge of restarting your graphic card if the system doesn’t receive any response from the graphic card for a set amount of time.

The default time is 2 seconds, and if the system doesn’t get a response from your graphic card in 2 seconds, it will restart the graphic card and crash your game.

10. Boost your gaming performance

The ARK Survival crashing issues also might be related to your system performance. You can still give it a boost without changing your hardware configuration.

All you need is to install a dedicated app such as Game Fire. This excellent tool turns off some system features that are not needed during your gaming session.

It also targets your system resources towards the game you’re currently playing so that your PC to run it smoothly, with higher FPS and without any freezes. 

Game Fire also comes with a game management platform that allows you to handle all your titles from one place on your PC, whether they are local or online.

⇒ Get Game Fire

11. Use a different screen resolution

Some users have reported crashes, and it seems that these crashes have been caused by the game resolution. If you run the game in 1920×1080 resolution, you might want to change it.

According to users, changing the resolution from 1920×1080 to 1920×1200 has fixed the crashes. If you cannot use 1920×1200 resolution, feel free to use any lower resolution instead.

12. Use official servers

If you are experiencing long loading screens, it’s advised that you switch to official servers because they are faster and more stable.

If switching to official servers didn’t work for you may be the issue is caused by your RAM.

As we already said, ARK: Survival Evolved is a demanding game, and it requires a minimum of 4GB to run, so if you have less than 4GB of RAM you might experience some performance issues.

13. Change the Nvidia Control Panel settings

configure NVIDIA Control Panel resolution settings
  1. Go to Nvidia Control Panel and click on 3D Settings.
  2. Disable some of the options such as Ambient Occlusion, Anti-aliasing, etc.
  3. Save the changes and restart the game.

14. Change the game mode and update your audio drivers

Running the game in Low Memory or Extremely Low Memory mode can sometimes cause issues with sound, and in the worst-case scenario, you won’t get any sound while playing ARK: Survival Evolved.

To fix this you need to run games in normal mode, but if this problem persists in normal game mode, you need to update your audio drivers.

15. Add -fullscreen to launch options

If you’re getting a blank screen every time you start ARK: Survival Evolved maybe you could fix this by changing the game launch options.

Check Solution 7 to see how to change launch options and make sure that you add -fullscreen as the launch option.

As you can see, users are facing quite a lot of issues in ARK: Survival Evolved. We hope this article was of at least some help, and that you were able to solve your problem.

In case you’re having problems with some other games in Windows 10, check out our Windows 10 games hub, for more solutions.

Don’t forget to tell us in the comments section below what other issues you encountered in ARK: Survival Evolved, and how did you deal with them.

Screen Mirroring App for PC: Top 6 Options in 2026

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Screen mirroring software lets you display content from your smartphone, tablet, or computer on your TV, projector, or external monitor wirelessly. The display will mirror your device in real time, accurately reproducing movements without flipping the image.

This feature is ideal for sharing photos, documents, videos, and is useful for professional and educational presentations. Screen mirroring requires compatible software on both the sending and receiving devices.

In this article, we will explore the best screen mirroring software options to help you choose the right one for your needs.

What are the best screen mirroring apps for Windows

ApowerMirror (Recommended) – Seamless Android Mirroring and Control

ApowerMirror (also known as Apowersoft Phone Mirror) is a desktop program that can mirror the screen of your Chromecast-compatible Android device to a PC in just a few steps.

It even supports utilizing the mouse and keyboard to control your Android phone from the computer for an easier typing and clicking experience.

It can be used to play all kinds of Android games (without needing to root your device), stream videos, photos, and other media files send instant messages, and manage various apps.

The screen mirroring tool has the capability to connect to your phone through both USB cables and WiFi. To use it as a wireless display you want to make sure both your PC and phone are connected to the same wireless network.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Office – present files to every member
  • Classroom – share content with the entire class at once
  • Live – show yourself to a larger audience easily
  • Home – enjoy media with your entire family
  • Control your Android device with your PC mouse and keyboard
  • Take screenshots, and sync app data

The commercial version has all the capabilities of the free and personal versions but is designed for commercial use (corporate/companies).

The Apowersoft official page gives you the option to freely research elaborate guides meant to help you navigate the software easily and tailor the experience specifically to your needs.

ApowerMirror

Using this tool allows you to stream videos, photos, and any other media from your cell phone to a larger screen.
Free trial Visit Website

MobileGo – Comprehensive Phone Managemer with Screen Mirroring

MobileGo software’s key toolkit makes it simple to maximize and optimize your smartphone’s necessities. 

You can back up and restore all of your important data, enable your Android device to overcome restrictions, restore lost files, and delete your phone data to safeguard your privacy.

This Android and IOS manager allows you to screen-mirror the Android phone or iPhone from your PC. It does not take the screen in horizontal viewing, instead leaves it exactly like the phone screen, with a copy-paste function.

 What makes MobileGo unique in its features:

  • You can use apps on your PC from your phone, with no limitations.
  • Has multi-tasking abilities, like running apps in the background and joining meetings at the same time
  • With the MobileGo app you can optimize your phone’s performance but is available for Android only
  • Convert, import, and export music files and emails
  • Backup, restore, de-duplicate contacts
  • The mirroring function allows you to do your tasks faster

MobileGo

MobileGo allows you to run apps on your PC rather than your Android device, with no limits and minimum effort.
Free trial Visit Website

NCH ScreenStream – User-Friendly Screen Broadcasting

This software from NCH is one of the best options the market has to offer when it comes to screen broadcasting software because of its intuitive and user-friendly interface.

ScreenStream is the modern equivalent of an overhead projector, allowing others to watch your screen from their own computers over the network or the internet, and it’s completely free.

Unfortunately, NCH ScreenStream is not directly compatible with Windows 10 operating systems but we have a quick fix for you that allows you to install it nonetheless.

Steps to use NCH ScreenStream on Windows 10

  1. First, you want to download the software normally then right-click on the installer and choose troubleshoot compatibility.
  2. Windows will open the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter screen and all you have to do is click on Try recommended settings. This will set the compatibility mode to Windows Vista (Service Pack 2) automatically.
  3. You can then click on Test the program button and the installer will start.
  4. In order for NCH ScreenStream to automatically configure your network, your router needs to support UPnP. If that’s not the case, you can manually set up the IP address and TCP/IP port.

When you turn on screen sharing, any user that has the link (and optional access code) can easily view your screen directly from their internet browser without the need to install any additional software.

This makes ScreenStream one of the easiest options to set up and use. To stop sharing your screen, you can easily open ScreenStream and click the turn-off button.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Very simple user interface that you can install and run in minutes
  • Runs in the background and captures your screen while in any other program
  • Quick access for viewers from any web browser (any type of computer)
  • Secure connection using the optional access code feature
  • Share audio in order for others to hear you present/speak
  • Unlimited number of viewers

⇒ Get NCH ScreenStream

TeamViewer – Secure and Versatile Remote Mirroring

TeamViewer is one of the most popular screen mirroring apps used mainly for diagnostic purposes.

You can also use it to mirror desktops and other mobile devices if needed, and it is safe because you are protected with password access from the other end of the screen.

You only need to download this software on both devices and link them using your login information. This makes it easier to copy one screen to another.

It can share your phone screen with another phone, and it can also share the screen of one PC with another if you have the program installed.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Supports HD video and sound transmission
  • Supports 256-bit AES encryption
  • Supports files transfers from both devices
  • Cross-platform connections (PC to PC, mobile to PC, PC to mobile, and mobile to mobile)

The most important aspect is that when you shut down your computer or phone, the connection is terminated, and no one else will be able to access your system until you restart your computer or phone and enter your password again.

⇒ Get TeamViewer

Reflector – Advanced Multi-Device Mirroring

With its newly designed interface made specifically for modern operating systems, Reflector has been upgraded and rewritten for stability and performance.

This app is also a wireless mirroring and streaming receiver compatible with most devices. One of its most important features is the ability to mirror multiple devices at once.

It automatically adjusts the layout in order for the screens to be displayed proportionately. This feature is ideal for side-by-side comparisons in collaborative environments.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Easily records any connected devices
  • Live streaming – the ability to project your screen activities directly to YouTube
  • Support for connections from Miracast devices
  • Easy access to custom controls
  • Full-resolution screenshots
  • Screen previews – quickly see what’s on a screen before showing it to the audience
  • Powerful screen-mirroring features
  • Built into most Windows 10 devices – no need to install or use additional software
  • Options to change frames, emphasize and hide or show devices from one central location

Reflector also comes in a Teacher version, which is installed on the teacher’s computer.

Other classroom devices can wirelessly connect to that computer, connect the teacher’s computer to a projector or external display and take advantage of its specialized education-focused features.

⇒ Get Reflector

Mobizen – Efficient Android Screen Streaming

Mobizen is a screen mirroring app designed for PC that allows you to stream Android phone screens to PC and easily transfer files between your smartphone and computer.

It offers you the capability to control your mobile devices freely using a mouse and keyboard and can connect via USB, Wi-Fi, 3G, or LTE. It doesn’t allow the resizing of windows.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Real-time mirroring of your mobile device for gaming, instant messaging, etc.
  • Screen recording without needing to root your device
  • Effective for presentations with tools such as on-screen drawing
  • Ability to receive all smartphone notifications on your PC
  • Music and video streaming capabilities
  • Drag-and-drop file transfer
  • Access to call logs from PC
  • No need for installation – it can be used directly from your web browser

⇒ Get Mobizen

  • READ MORE: Looking for an alternative to mirror iPhone/iPad screens on Windows 10? The guide will walk you through easy steps.

Mirroring technology has simplified many forms of communication. It’s easy to record, share, and stream content via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB cable. And it becomes even easier with the right tools. You can even use your tablet as a drawing pad on your PC.

If you prefer working on your desktop than on your smartphone or tablet, check out the best free Android emulators and the best iPhone and iPad emulators

This article offers you the 6 best screen mirroring software options for Windows 10, whether you use an Android, iPhone, iPad, or another kind of device.

Let us know what is your experience in using these tools so far by hitting the comments section below.

Fix: Firefox Has Disabled the Ability to Change Some Options

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

When using the Firefox browser, some users have reported coming across a message Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options. This represents a sign that one or more policies have been applied to the browser.

So, you might question who is managing your browser, who has disabled or restricted you from changing Firefox options, or if your computer or web browser is hacked, but none of these are relevant. In this guide, we will show you a bunch of solutions that will help you to get rid of the Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options.

What triggers Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options error?

After some research, we found out there are a few common reasons which you will come across Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options error.

How can I fix Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options error?

1. Use the Troubleshoot Mode

  1. Click on the three-line icon.
  2. Click the Help button.
  3. Click on the Troubleshoot Mode option.
  4. Select the Restart button.

When you make use of the Troubleshoot mode in the Mozilla Firefox browser, then you can fix multiple issues with the browser.

This in-built tool is there to fix some bugs, and false errors, which could be caused by the themes, extensions, etc., and can refrain you from using the complete features of the browser.

2. Disable Hardware Acceleration

  1. Click on the three-line icon.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Select General from the left.
  4. Scroll down to the Performance section.
  5. Uncheck the Use recommended performance settings box.
  6. Uncheck the Use hardware acceleration when available box.
  7. Close Firefox completely and restart it.

When you enable the Hardware Acceleration feature in the Firefox browser, it allows the browser to make use of the computer’s graphics processor.

This helps in better viewing the media content, as well as the games that can be played on the browser. However, this could also cause some issues with the browser if it fails to properly utilize the GPU. In such a case, you can turn it off and check if this fixes the Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options error.

3. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the below path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Mozilla\Firefox
  4. Select Firefox key and press the Delete button.
  5. Close the Registry Editor and launch Firefox.

4. Delete the Policies.JSON file from the installation directory

  1. Open the File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the below-mentioned path. C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox
    • This path if for those who have installed Firefox in the C Drive. If you have installed the program somewhere else, open that path.
  3. Locate the Distribution folder inside the Mozilla Firefox installation folder.
  4. Open the folder and delete the Policies.JSON file.
  5. Restart Firefox and check if this resolves the problem or not.

When you delete the Policies.JSON file, you are deleting all the policies that have been applied to your Mozilla Firefox. Some policies applied to your browser could be popping up the Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options error.

5. Disable your antivirus software

  1. Open Avast or AVG antivirus software.
  2. Click on the Protection tab on the left.
  3. Select Core Shields.
  4. Locate the File shield and toggle it off.
  5. Close Avast.
  6. Relaunch Mozilla Firefox and check if this gets rid of the error message.

The Your organization has disabled the ability to change some options error has been known to be triggered because of the Avast or AVG antivirus software. It can also be caused by the Windows Defender Firewall.

You can simply follow the steps above and disable the antivirus software and check if this resolves the error message or not.

As you learned from this article, most of the time, your organization manages your browser and has disabled the ability to change some options Firefox message is caused when Firefox browsers apply a new policy.

We have a guide that will help you resolve the administrator has blocked you from running this app error.

However, we presented some solutions that will help you to easily solve this issue, without any problems. We really hope that hat you managed to fix this problem using one of our presented options.

Also, if you encounter troubles in using this browser, you can always find options for how to fix Firefox not responding in Windows 10. For any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

CSGO Can’t Connect to Official Servers: How to Reach Them

Posted on by Matthew Adams

According to many, CSGO can’t connect to official servers and this makes the game unplayable, so let’s see if there’s a way to fix this major problem.

Why is CS:GO stuck on connecting to server?

Networking issues on your end are a common problem, but sometimes there are server-side issues that can cause this.

How do I fix unable to connect to server on CSGO?

1. Check if Counter Strike servers are down

  1. Open the Downdetector page for Counter-Strike.
  2. Check if there are any issues in the past 30 minutes.
  3. If so, you might have to wait while Valve fixes this.
  4. You can also perform a Counter-Strike ping test to check if servers are back online.

2. Verify the integrity of the game’s cache

    1. First, you need to open the Steam client software.

  2. 2. Click Library at the top of Steam’s window.

  3. 3. Right-click Counter Strike: Global Offensive to select Properties.

  4. 4. Select the Local Files tab shown directly below.

  5. 5. Click the Verify Integrity of Game Files option.

    6. How do you fix a stuck CS:GO load? Steam’s Verify Integrity option can often resolve Counter-Strike server errors.

3. Try another game server

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If Counter-Strike does not connect with the server maybe you want to try another game server alternative that can help you provide the best game experience.

We suggest you try Host Havoc which has a custom control panel very easy to use in order to change maps and install further modifications to your server in just a few minutes.

Their directory for modpacks is by far a higher level than any other game hosting provider.

Host Havoc is a high-performance server with excellent 24/7 technical support that helps you fix issues easily and fast.

With a powerful control suite and unique features, and installers, this server hosting is very easy to use for both novice and advanced users.

⇒  Get Host Havoc

4. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall

  1. To turn off WDF, press the Windows key + S hotkey.
  2. Input firewall to search for the WDF applet.
  3. Click Windows Defender Firewall to open the Control Panel applet shown directly below.
    Windows Defender Firewall applet counter strike not connecting to server
  4. Click the Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off link.
  5. Select the Turn off Windows Defender Firewall options, and click the OK button.
    Turn off Windows Defender Firewall option counter strike not connecting to server

CS: GO server errors can be due to Windows Defender Firewall blocking the game connecting with the server.

If CSGO can’t connect to official servers, you might want to temporarily turn off Windows Defender and check if the issue gets resolved by doing so.

5. Turn off third-party antivirus utilities

  1. Right-click your antivirus in the system tray.
  2. Select the option to disable realtime protection.
  3. Check if the problem is gone.

Keep in mind that these steps can be different depending on the antivirus that you use.

6. Repair Steam service

  1. To fix VAC server connection errors, try repairing Steam. First, make sure Steam is closed.
  2. Press the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut.
  3. Input this command in the Open box: "C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\bin\SteamService.exe" /repair
  4. Note that users who haven’t installed Steam in its default Program Files directory will need to change the SteamService.exe file path in that command.
    Steam repair command counter strike not connecting to server
  5. Then press the OK button.

7. Switch to the Google DNS server

  1. Switching to Google DNS server can resolve CS: GO server errors. Right-click the Start button to select Run.
  2. Input ncpa.cpl in the Open box, and click the OK option.
  3. Right-click your net connection there to select Properties.
    Network Connections applet counter strike not connecting to server
  4. Double-click Wi-Fi Properties to open the window shown directly below.
    Wi-Fi Properties window counter strike not connecting to server
  5. Select the Use the following DNS server addresses radio button.
  6. Enter 8.8.8.8 in the Preferred DNS server box.
  7. Input 8.8.4.4 in the Alternative DNS server box.
  8. Select the Validate settings upon exit checkbox option.
  9. Press the OK button.

Those are some of the more likely fixes for Counter-Strike not connecting to server errors. In addition, try removing superfluous third-party programs from Windows startup.

By following these steps you should be able to fix any Counter Strike-related issues and play uninterrupted again.

Let us know which of the methods you used by leaving us a message in the comments section below.

How to get Age of Empires 2 to work on Windows 10/11

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Windows 10 is used by millions of people worldwide, but just like with many other operating systems, sometimes there are problems with older software.

Speaking of old software, sometimes older games such as Age of Empires 2 won’t work on Windows 10, but luckily, there’s a fix available.

This article will give you the right solutions to help you solve this problem, and enjoy your favorite game, so be sure to check them out.

How do I get Age of Empires 2 to work on Windows 10/11?

1. Use a system optimizer

For a better gaming experience, we recommend downloading a specialized system optimizer. It will help with various gaming issues, by empowering your PC.

These system optimizers can remove malware and repair any damage to your PC caused by viruses.

You can get Age of Empires 2 to work on Windows 10 with just a couple of clicks.

2. Run the game in compatibility mode

  1. Right-click Age of Empires 2 shortcut, and choose Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode, and select the operating system from the list.
  4. Click Apply, then OK.

Since Age of Empires 2 is a very old game, maybe running it in compatibility mode could solve the problem.

If you’re running Age of Empires 2 on Steam you might try the following solution.

3. Disable the Age of Empires 2 launcher

  1. Open Steam, and find Age of Empires 2.
  2. Right-click it, and choose Properties.
  3. Go to the Set launch options.
  4. Type NoStartUp, and click OK.
  5. Click Local files, and then Browse local files.
  6. Delete or rename Launcher.
  7. Create a copy of AoK HD.
  8. Rename the copy of AoK HD to Launcher.
  9. Go back to the Steam properties window, and click Close.

If running the game in the compatibility mode didn’t solve the problem, you can try with disabling the game launcher.

4. Make sure your game is up to date

If you want to be sure that you do not encounter other problems on Windows 10 with this game, then you need to run the latest version of the Age of Empires 2.

If you’re not running the original version of the game, we suggest you buy now Age of Empires 2 Gold Edition, or the Definitive Edition, which comes with additional content.

We hope that these solutions helped you solve the problems with Age of Empires on Windows 10. If you have any questions or suggestions, reach for the comment section below.

Internet Slow on PC but Fast on Other Devices: Why It Happens and How to Fix It

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Two PCs on the same network can have very different internet speeds. If one’s slower, it’s usually due to outdated network drivers, malware, or apps hogging bandwidth.

Other common issues include a corrupt TCP/IP stack or missing system updates. These can quietly drag down performance.

To confirm the slowdown, use internet speed test tools and compare results with your other devices.

How do I fix slow internet on one computer?

1. Update the Network driver

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run window, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK.
  2. Expand the Network adapters, right-click the network driver and click Update driver.
  3. Select the Search automatically for drivers option.
  4. Restart your PC and check if your internet connection speed is faster.

Updating the network driver will fix bugs and resolve issues like slow internet issues while using wired access points, along with installing the latest features to improve your internet experience. Check other steps for updating drivers on Windows 11 if you have any issues.

If this method seems too tedious, you can use a third-party tool to automatically find and update any outdated driver.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

2. Restart the Network Adapter

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run window, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK.
  2. Expand the Network adapters, right-click the network driver, and choose Properties from the drop-down.
  3. Click on the Advanced tab, go to the Property window, click on the Speed & Duplex option and ensure that the Auto-Negotiation is set.
  4. Navigate to the Network adapters, right-click the network driver and select Disable device from the drop-down.
  5. Repeat step 4 and select Enable device from the drop-down.

Restarting the Network adapter will help refresh its process on your computer and improve its functionality. Read how to fix network drivers not found on Windows 11.

3. Uninstall unnecessary apps

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Control Panel, then press Enter.
  2. Click on Programs and Features.
  3. Find and click on the app to uninstall, and click on the Uninstall button.
  4. Select Remove on the uninstall wizard prompt, then click Next to continue.
  5. Click Yes and wait for the process to complete.
  6. Repeat the same process for other applications you want to uninstall.

Uninstalling unnecessary apps on your computer will remove any impediments they cause to the internet speed.

4. Reset TCP/IP Stack

  1. Left-click the Start button, type cmd, and click to open the Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following in the command bar and press Enter: netsh int ip reset c:\resetlog.txt
  3. Restart your PC.

Resetting the TCP/IP stack will restore its default settings and fix any configuration issues that may slow down your internet speed.

Alternatively, users can read through our guide on how to fix network congestion on Windows 11 for more information on increasing internet speed. And if you’re able to fix congestion issues, your video calls are slow despite having a fast internet connection, you may have to change your Wi-Fi channel.

Also, you can check what Wi-Fi packet loss is and how to fix it on your PC.

If your laptop’s WiFi is slow or noticeably worse than your Ethernet connection, check out our guides on how to fix slow WiFi on a laptop and why WiFi is slower than Ethernet for practical solutions.

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

5 Best Enterprise Cybersecurity Software [Antivirus & Backup]

Posted on by Teodor Nechita

Enterprise environments are places where data is created, modified, and circulated continuously, which makes securing it both in terms of cybersecurity and backups a mandatory process.

You as a user or as a company no longer have to deal with two separate programs, since there are plenty of enterprise cybersecurity software solutions that deal with both protection and data backup.

How can cybersecurity software help my business?

Any business is dealing with sensitive data. Server failures or ransomware attacks can turn everything into dust with huge losses.

That is why not only do you need to protect your network against intrusions but also back up your data at all times. That’s why you need to invest in enterprise cybersecurity software.

We’ve decided that a list of the best software of this kind would be appropriate, so we created one highlighting the best entries currently on the market.

These products were chosen based on their toolkit, reliability, price, and other important criteria.

Which is the best enterprise cybersecurity software?

Acronis Cyber Protect – Best backup & recovery solution

Acronis Cyber Protect is a fully functioning solid cyber protection solution that includes full antivirus and antimalware protection with AI-based ransomware protection, integrated patch management, and backup, a real-time threat feed, vulnerability assessment, remote desktop capabilities, and many more including monitoring and additional management capabilities.

Whether you are concerned about preventing cyberattacks, ensuring business continuity, or system integrity, Acronis’ real-time cyber protection, and data monitoring features will ensure threats are prevented, detected, and managed so you can keep your business moving forward.

All in all, it doesn’t matter whether you fear cyber threats, or simply hardware or software failure, Acronis Cyber Protect has you covered.

Here are just some of the top features of Acronis Cyber Protect:

  • Flexible reporting and monitoring
  • Full antivirus and antimalware protection with AI-based ransomware protection
  • Blockchain-based notarization
  • Real-time threat feed and notifications from Acronis’ Global Cyber Protection Operations Center
  • Integrated patch management and backup
  • Intuitive web-based interface
  • Multi-tenant administration
  • Remote desktop
  • Thorough systems support
  • Acronis Universal Restore
  • Multi-level encryption
  • Acronis Instant Restore
<img class="rmudcb__image" src="https://windowsreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Acronis-Cyber-Protect-Home-Office-CTA-210×160.png" alt="<a href="https://www.jdoqocy.com/click-7235723-14491590?sid=https://windowsreport.com/page/636/?post_type=post" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Acronis Cyber Protect

Acronis Cyber Protect

Ensure business continuity and prevent cyberattacks with this powerful tool.
Check Price Visit Website

ManageEngine OS Deployer – Effortless Disk Imaging and Backup

ManageEngine OS Deployer

One of the important features of the ManageEngine OS Deployer is imaging, which allows you to create an image of an entire disk or partitions.

These backups can be then deployed as standardized system configurations across multiple computers.

This image can be of great use when a machine is infected or damaged, as it can restore the data and apps in no time without any data loss.

It enables you to either the entire disk or only specific partitions, depending on your requirements, and you can store it locally or remotely.

You can add or remove drivers, apps, and configurations, thereby creating a custom image tailored to your specific needs.

The software supports image compression, which reduces the size of the image and speeds up the deployment process.

Here are just some of the best features of ManageEngine OS Deployer:

  •  Seamlessly migrates user profiles
  • Acquires image of a machine when it’s live
  • Comes with an image verification feature
  • Creates a bootable USB or CD/DVD with an encrypted image
  • Provides centralized management

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security – Complete security

This next entry is a software solution bought by a leader in terms of antimalware solutions, and it is a complete software Suite for businesses to keep their data safe.

It ensures complete protection against all types of malware, including ransomware, phishing, zero-day attack, viruses, spyware, and more.

The solution uses machine learning techniques, behavioral analysis, and continuous monitoring of running processes to ensure that no stone is left unturned when it comes to security threats.

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security comes with all sorts of tools that make it an excellent entry in our article, including device control, full disk encryption, and a lot more.

Here are some of its best features:

  • Completely web-based security
  • Layered protection for endpoints
  • Network Attack defense features
  • AI and machine-learning driven systems
  • Access to the largest security intelligence cloud
  • Protection integrated with endpoint risk management
Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security

Keep your company data secured with the help of this incredibly useful tool.
Check priceVisit website

Paragon Backup & Recovery – Great for saving your data

Paragon Backup & Recovery has always been a staple of backup programs, having been one of the best on the market for a few years now.

Well, Paragon Back & Recovery can also be indirectly used to fight malware infections as well, although it doesn’t achieve this through conventional antivirus-like means.

It does this by using Paragon to simply reboot to a previous day, effectively kicking the malware from their system without any issues, and without losing any money, data, or time.

Basically, even if malware somehow gets on your system, you can simply reload a clean backup, since these are automatically created to contain the latest data relevant to your system.

Let’s review a few of its most important features:

  • Very easy to implement and use
  • Complete backup and recovery features
  • Scheduled backup
  • Incremental backup
  • Hard drive management
Paragon Backup & Recovery

Paragon Backup & Recovery

Perfect backups mean that you can always reboot from virus infection. Let Paragon create those backups today!
Check priceVisit website

AOMEI Backupper Workstation – Very easy to use

This last entry on our list is by no means inferior to the others, as AOMEi is too another big name in the backup software business.

Similar to Paragon, AOMEI has an extensive record of creating perfect copies of whatever data cluster you’re targeting, and it operates in the same way when it comes to dealing with malware.

This makes it an excellent tool when it comes to system crashes, hard drive failures, power outages, accidentally deleted overwritten files, viruses, and more.

Lastly, the price tag isn’t all that high either, and it even comes with a free trial for you to test out its full effectiveness, allowing you to make a more informed decision before commuting to buy it.

Here are some of its key features:

  • Perfect for data security
  • File syncing capabilities
  • File, partition, or disk backup
  • Very easy to use
  • Extensive recovery features
AOMEI Backupper Workstation

AOMEI Backupper Workstation

AOMEI has been keeping your data safe for years now. continue keeping it safe with AOMEI Backupper Workstation!
Check priceVisit website

This concludes our list of the best software for enterprise cybersecurity and data backup.

We hope we included tools that would have made it to your own top list as well, and that we helped you decide which is the better tool to try out.

All in all, if you run a company, or are responsible for running one, then you will definitely need such tools to ensure data privacy and security.

In that respect, you may also check our list of the best network antiviruses for your business.

Is there any other tool that you consider that should have made it on our list? If so, let us know by leaving your suggestions in the comments section below.

10 Best Free Weather Apps for Windows 10

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

It is very annoying when you go out in the park, expecting to enjoy a lovely, sunny day but you return home soaking wet because the weather caught you by surprise.

You did not check the weather forecast because the sun was shining in the sky in the morning and you thought it was impossible to rain that day.

If you want to always be prepared and never let the weather take you by surprise, install one of the following apps and check the forecast before you go outside.

Have in mind that some of the listed free apps are actually freemium and some payments might be required in order to unlock certain features.

Check the weather with these useful Windows 10 weather apps

Weather Radar Pro

This weather app covers the United States, Europe, and Eastern Caribbean and offers animated weather radar with watch/warning boxes, global hurricane tracking, and cloud overlays.

This app has recently been updated and you can now select your default location manually and use the Live Tiles.

In-depth data about weather phenomena is offered: storm hail size, probability of hail, cloud top height, or vertically integrated liquid.

Storm characteristics on the radar include arrows showing the direction of motion and icons indicating the position and amount of hail, mesocyclones, and tornadic vortex signatures that indicate the existence of rotation in supercells and potential tornadoes.

Weather Radar Pro

Choose the number of frames in your radar animation, the pace of the animation, the interval between frames, and more precise real-time changes.
Check price Visit website

Forecast

This is one of the richest apps in terms of locations available, offering weather information for millions of places around the world. It includes a live tile with a multi-day forecast, in-app weather graphs, and location-based weather.

You can configure the app appearance with both color and image themes available, including Bing’s image of the day. There’s a free trial available so you can give it a try.

Both Fahrenheit and Celsius are available, as well as a variety of measures for wind speed, precipitation, and pressure, all of which may be changed in the app’s settings.

Forecast

Forecast features a live tile with a multi-day forecast, in-app weather graphs, and location-based weather (GPS).
Free trial Visit website

Perfect Weather Universal


This weather app shows the current weather, the forecast for today, and for 9 days ahead. Details such as wind speed, pressure, day length, and moon phase are available.

Another strong point is the number of languages available:  26 languages. Multiple live tiles automatically update the forecasts on the Start screen so that you don’t have to.

Swipe the screen to watch how the weather changes throughout the day. The sunset, sunrise, moonrise, and moonset all occur at the same time as in real life. Learn about the wind, pressure, day length, and moon phase…

There are several landscape layouts that you may choose from, and several live tiles refresh the predictions on the Start screen automatically.

⇒ Get the Perfect Weather Universal app

MSN Weather

This app brings you the latest information on weather conditions, with accurate 10-day and hourly forecasts. It comes pre-installed on Windows 10, and the only thing you have to do is configure it.

Severe weather alerts are offered so that you may be one step ahead of the weather, as well as previous days’ weather maps so that you can see what the weather is like, month by month.

Interactive pan and zoom maps are available, alongside Live Tile support.

⇒ Get MSN Weather

8-bit Weather

If you’re a pixel fan, you will love this app because it combines nostalgic pixelated graphics with the latest weather information.

Watch as pixelated leaves blow over a dream landscape and drops of blocky rain descend from the sky. Keep an eye on the snow that is building up around a stone cave that is most likely home to a terrifying monster, and watch out for that moat!

You can check the current weather conditions – with hourly updates to a 7-day forecast – on videogame canvas. This is definitely the most fun way to check the weather.

⇒Get 8-bit Weather

Rain Gauge

This app gives you the current weather, and the forecasts for the upcoming days, and has a dedicated rain radar. The best part is that you don’t have to check the app to see if it rains.

You can set up rain alerts to get a message when it’s going to rain and check the live tile for the rain graph. Rain Gauge proudly offers rainfall information per 5 minutes in the upcoming 3 hours.

⇒ Get Rain Gauge

The Weather 14 days

As its name suggests, this weather app shows you the weather forecast for the next 14 days. You can use it to get the latest weather forecasts in over 450,000 locations all around the world.

The app is compatible with Windows 10 PCs, Surface devices, as well as Windows 10 phones. If you install it on your phone, you can customize it with weather widgets, display temperature in your notification bar, and more.

You can also select a specific day to view detailed hourly weather information such as temperature, rainfall, humidity, pressure, wind speed, and much more.

Weather warnings are also available so that you’ll never be caught off guard by unusual weather phenomena.

⇒ Get The Weather 14 days

Simple Weather


The Simple Weather app is one of those apps available in the Store that are seemingly too bareboned to be considered worthy. But that’s hardly the case.

Simple Weather checks all the boxes in regards to what it’s supposed to do: shows you the weekly weather forecast along with pressure, humidity, wind conditions, sunrise and sunset times.

It can also give you severe weather alerts based on the weather forecast provider.

⇒ Get Simple Weather

Weather Notify


Many apps we listed here have notification options but none is as specialized in delivering timely notifications as Weather Notify. Once you’ve set the location of your choice, you have a multitude of options to choose from for the app to notify you about.

However, the notifications are under the paywall so you’ll need the Pro version of the app in order to get them. Also, on the downside, the app isn’t exactly the most stable.

⇒ Get Weather Notify 

Strawberry Weather

Strawberry Weather is a really colorful weather app. You can install it on your Windows 10 laptop, mobile device, or Microsoft Hub. One of its strong points is its low battery usage.

Expect it to use about 3% of your battery in a day. This is a nice feature to have especially if you use the app while you’re on the go and don’t have access to a wall socket to power up your laptop or phone.

There are 12 colorful themes that you can choose from. Simply select your favorite color as the app background and you’re ready to go.

The app allows you to search for all the places you want and get the latest weather information about the respective places. The part is that you can sync the weather info across all your Windows 10 devices.

⇒ Get Strawberry Weather

You can also check out these phenomena specific apps:

  • Moon Calendar with specific sunrise, sunset and twilight times for a price tag of $1.99.
  • Hurricane Tracker –  get the latest information about tropical cyclones in the Atlantic, East Pacific, West Pacific, Indian Ocean, and southern hemisphere for only $3.75.
  • Rain Alarm – this app warns you about rain or snow approaching your location using push notifications.

For more guides like this one, visit our dedicated Weather Apps Hub. If you like having handy apps, visit our Utilities and Tools page for more great suggestions.

Also, leave there any other questions you may have and we’ll be sure to check them out.

If you’re aware of other apps that we didn’t feature in our list and are worth mentioning, share them in the comments section below.

Windows 10 Equalizer: How to Improve Your Sound Quality

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

If you are a movie lover, music lover, or gamer, chances are you’ve wanted a system-wide sound equalizer for Windows 10. There are many ways to add a sound equalizer for Windows 10.

Yet, adding an equalizer to your PC can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, the detailed steps below will show you how to add a sound equalizer for Windows 10.

How can I use a sound equalizer for Windows 10?

1. Choose a sound equalizer compatible with Windows 10

Once you have made sure that your sound drivers are updated and working properly you will need to search for a sound equalizer that works well for you.

The internet has numerous equalizer applications, so it can be intimidating to choose one. So the 3 best equalizers below will help make your search for an equalizer an easier one.

Each of the three equalizers in this list will have a short introduction. If you want more information on how to install each equalizer then you can proceed to step 3.

1.1. Boom 3D (recommended)

This is the Windows version of the famous Boom 3D from Global Delight Apps. It lets you choose the presets and you can manipulate with various frequencies from these presets.

If you are more advanced in all that is called sound then you should be able to build your own presets.

A powerful intelligent engine lets your hearing senses adapt to the environment/sound combination. You can also choose the type of headphones you are using for a better audio experience.

Boom 3D equalizer is available for free on the official website and fits perfectly on a Windows 10 machine thus being our recommended choice. Many users have tried out this software, and they were all pleased with the results. The program can also let you bypass normal volume limits on your laptop or PC.

Enhancing audio has never been easier thanks to Boom 3D. More so, the software has frequent sales, so you can grab it at a fairly decent price!

Re-imagine your gaming, refine your favorite music, and redefine movie experiences, because you can use this tool to enhance all of your device’s sounds.

The multi-channel 3D surround feature will make create an immersive experience that will absorb you into the movie or the game you play, making it feel like you’re part of it.

Boom 3D

If you want to know what 3D audio with surround effects truly sounds like, then you have to try Boom 3D!
Check price Visit website

1.2. Realtek HD audio manager

This is the default equalizer found in many Windows 10 computers. Some users will have this automatically installed on their computers if they have the right type of hardware.

If a user does not have this equalizer for some reason,  then he/she can easily download  Realtek HD drivers from the internet and use its equalizer.

Realtek originated from Taiwan’s Silicon Valley and has been providing high-end software since 1987. Fortunately, the Realtek HD audio manager is easy to use, attractive, and powerful.

Users who are looking for a basic equalizer that has been proven and tested by time should try this software from Realtek.

Some users do not even have to download it as they already have it on their computers. To learn how to download and use this equalizer go to their official website.

⇒ Download Realtek HD audio manager

1.3. Windows 10 Default Equalizer

Unknown to many, there is a default equalizer in Windows 10. Albeit, the equalizer is somewhat hidden and it is merely a settings window. In other words, there are no special graphics, features, etc.

However, if you do not feel like downloading anything then the default equalizer is for you. Here is how you can find the Windows 10 default equalizer.

You can even use this feature to disable loudness equalization. Learn how to enable or disable Loudness Equalization on Windows 10 in our special guide.

2. How do I add a sound equalizer for Windows 10?

This section will show detailed instructions on how to download, install, or use each equalizer on your Windows 10 PC.

2.1. How to download and install Boom 3D

  1. Download the setup from the official site.
    • Alternatively, you can download the software from the Microsoft Store.
  2. Run the setup and follow the guidelines.
  3. After the setup is finished, sign up or unlock the software.
  4. That’s it. You can now use the software.

2.2. How do I download and access Realtek HD?

  1. Download the equalizer from their official website.
    • If you already have it on your PC proceed to step two.
    • locate the Realtek HD audio manager also on the bottom right part of the screen on the taskbar.
    • It should have a similar icon to your sound icon.
  2. In order to ensure you have the right icon, hover your mouse over it like the sample below.
  3. After you find the icon, right-click on it and select Sound manager.
  4. Once you are inside the sound manager menu, select the sound effect tab.
    • Here you will have a number of preset equalizers as well as a graphic EQ.
    • The image below shows you where to access the graphic equalizer.

2.3. How to find the default Equalizer on Windows 10

  1. Locate the speaker or sound icon on your PC.
  2. Right-click on it and select the playback device option.
  3. A dialog named sound should appear.
  4. Locate the default speakers or headphones in the playback tab.
  5. Right-click on the default speakers, then select properties.
  6. There will be an enhancements tab in this properties window.
  7. Select it and you will find equalizer options.

3. Update your drivers

  1. locate the sound icon, which is usually located in the bottom right-hand corner of your screen on the taskbar.
  2. Right-click on the icon and several options should pop up.
  3. Click on the playback option.
  4. A window like the one below should appear.
    • Once it appears you will need to select the default speaker or headset device that you use for your PC.
    • In the sample image, the device I use is called sample headphones.
  5. Double click the default icon and a properties window should appear.
  6. If you are not already on the general tab, locate it and click on it.
  7. You should then be able to locate properties in this tab.
  8. Open Properties.
  9. Click on the change settings option in the general tab.
  10. Go to the Driver tab and click on update driver.

Updating your drivers will ensure that they are compatible with Windows 10. It is also crucial to update your PC to work properly.

There you have it, you now know how to add a sound equalizer for Windows 10. It is fairly easy and can be done using multiple methods.

Audio equalizer software can be a good choice if you are particular about your audio settings. On top of that, they can help boost the functionality of low-end audio equipment.

Feel free to give us any feedback regarding the subject, or your experience with it, in the comment section below.

Error 0x800701c4 on Xbox [Solved]

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The Error 0x800701c4 on the Xbox or Xbox app on the PC has been a nightmare for many users. It prevents users from downloading and installing games via the Xbox app on their Windows 11. Also, the error appears on the Xbox console, making the console inaccessible.

Likewise, users report error code 80151103 on Xbox.

What causes the error code 0x800701c4 on Xbox?

Most errors you can encounter on the Xbox app or console are likely caused by network connection problems. If the game or console can’t connect properly with its servers, it can result in an error.

Furthermore, other factors that may cause the Error 0x800701c4 on the Xbox or Xbox app on the PC are:

  • Server issues – Server downtime on the Xbox Live server affects every activity on the Xbox console or app. So, you can encounter the error whenever there’s a server maintenance session or other issues with the Xbox Live status.
  • Outdated Xbox or PC – If your Xbox console is outdated or the PC you’re running the Xbox app on is outdated, it can cause issues with your gaming activities. It is because of the bugs infecting them due to inaccessibility to needed updates.
  • Interference from other apps – Third-party programs running on your computer can cause issues with the Xbox app on your PC. Apps like antivirus software can block the Xbox app from interacting with the necessary programs.

However, these factors can be fixed by troubleshooting the Xbox console and your PC.

How do I fix the error code 0x800701c4 on Xbox?

Go through the following preliminary checks:

If you still encounter the error, proceed with the following solutions.

1. Reset Microsoft Store

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialogue box, type ms-settings:appsfeatures, then press Enter.
  2. Search for Microsoft Store, then click on the Advanced options on the result.
  3. Go to the Reset tab and click the Reset button.
  4. Restart your PC and check if the error is fixed.

Resetting the Microsoft store will fix any configuration issues affecting its performance.

2. Update Windows Operating System

  1. Press Windows + I key to open the Windows Settings app.
  2. Click on Windows Update and click on Check for updates.

If there are any updates available, Windows will search for and install them. Update Windows OS will fix bugs affecting your PC and update your drivers.

For Xbox console users, you can check our guide about updating the Xbox One console and check if the error persists.

3. Reset the Xbox console

  1. Power on your Xbox console and press the Xbox button on the controller to open the guide overlay.
  2. Select the System menu and click on Settings.
  3. Click on System to expand and choose Console info.
  4. Click on Reset Console.
  5. Then choose between Remove everything or Reset and keep my games & apps.

The Remove everything option will delete all data and games, resetting the console to the way it came.

Check how to fix the Xbox controller detected but not working if you experience it. Also, you may take a closer look at our guide on using the Xbox one controller on Windows PC.

For further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them below.

Posted in Fix

Windows 11 HDR is Washed Out? 5 Ways to Fix it

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The concept behind Windows High Dynamic Range (HDR) is to improve visual quality and convert a more detailed color texture, look, and feel. However, many users are experiencing Windows HDR washed out after enabling it, causing the opposite effect.

You can check our guide on how to fix auto-HDR not working in Windows 11 to enjoy the best experience.

Why does HDR seem washed out?

Windows HDR seems like it’s washed out after enabling HDR on your PC, which can be due to several factors. It causes the content and items on your screen to look washed out and unclear to read.

Some prominent causes that may be responsible for the issue are:

  • Wrong configuration in the HDR settings – The visual quality of the contents on your screen can be affected by the configurations in the HDR settings. So, color bit depth and color saturation can determine how visible the HDR content will be.
  • The after-effects of the switching from SDR to HDR – The transitioning from SDR to HDR usually affect HDR performance because SDR is overly saturated.
  • HDR display Requirements – Enabling HDR display on a monitor incompatible with the display mode can affect the display performance. It can cause the Windows HDR color to be washed out after enabling it.

The causes of the problem can vary on different PCs. Regardless, you can fix the HDR washed-out colors by tweaking some settings on your PC.

How can I fix HDR washed-out issues?

Go through the following preliminary checks:

  • Increase your screen brightness.
  • Ensure you have enough power on your PC.

If the HDR washed-out issue persists, try the following solutions:

1. Set the right balance for brightness between HDR and SDR content

  1. Right-click the Desktop and select Display Settings from the drop-down.
  2. Go to Rearrange your displays, and select the HDR-capable display.
  3. Move the Settings window to the HDR display that you’re adjusting.
  4. Select Windows HD Color settings on the Display settings screen.
  5. Go to HDR/SDR brightness balance, and drag the slider to get the right balance for brightness between HDR and SDR content.

Setting the right balance for brightness between HDR and SDR content will fix any differences after switching from SDR to HDR. For more brightness and contrast settings, check out our guide.

2.  Enable HDR on Windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Windows Settings app.
  2. Select Display, then toggle on the switch for Use HDR.
  3. Allow the Auto HDR option.

Enabling the HDR display on your Monitor or Windows PC can help turn it on if it was toggled off. Read about what to do if the Settings app is missing on Windows 11.

For a broader look at whether HDR is worth keeping enabled during gameplay, check out our guide on is HDR good for gaming.

3. Change Color Bit Depth

3.1 For Nvidia

  1. Right-click on your desktop and select the NVIDIA Control Panel.
  2. Navigate to Display in the left pane, then click on Change Resolution.
  3. Go to Output color depth, and select 10 BPC (bits per color).
  4. Change the Output Dynamic Range to Full and click on Apply.

If you are using an RTX graphics card, you can also follow this dedicated guide on how to enable HDR on RTX in Windows 11 for optimized results.

3.2 For AMD Radeon

  1. Right-click on your desktop and launch AMD Radeon Settings.
  2. In the display tab, change the color depth to 10 BPC.
  3. Go to Preferences, select the Radeon Additional Settings and change the Pixel Format to RGB 4:4:4 Pixel Format PC Standard (Full RGB).
  4. Close the AMD Radeon Settings window.

The 10 BPC Color Bit Depth will produce a more definitive look and more colors compared to lower values like 8 BPC.

4. Update your graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run window, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK to open the Device Manager.
  2. Click on Display Adapters, select the driver from the drop-down menu, and click the Update driver option.
  3. Select the Search automatically for drivers option.
  4. Restart your PC and check if the HDR content is still washed.

Updating the graphics driver will fix bugs affecting it and help install the latest features to improve its performance. Read about other steps for updating graphics drivers on Windows 11 if you have any issues.

Another quick and safe alternative is to use a third-party tool that will automatically find any outdated drivers and update them on the spot.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

5. Update Monitor driver

  1. Press Windows + R keys to prompt the Run window, type devmgmt.msc, and click OK to open the Device Manager.
  2. Click on Monitors, right-click on the monitor device, then select Update driver from the drop-down menu.
  3. Select the Search automatically for drivers option.
  4. Restart your PC.

Check our guide on how to update drivers on Windows 11 for more steps. Alternatively, our readers can check our guide on the best HDR software for Windows 11.

Likewise, you can read about fixing HDR game issues on Windows 11 or what to do when HDR videos are not playing on YouTube.

You can also check this detailed guide on HDR not working after Windows update for additional fixes.

If you have any suggestions or questions on this guide, kindly drop them in the comments section.

Spectrum NETGE-1000 Error: Fix it in 3 Steps

Posted on by Afam Onyimadu

Spectrum is a cable television, telephone, Internet, and wireless service provider in the United States. Many customers reported receiving an unusual error message when logging into Spectrum via the app or website. 

Typically, the following types of error messages are displayed:

  • NETGE-1000 error spectrum login
  • NETGE-1000 error spectrum website
  • Spectrum login error Netgear 1000

In this article, we shall show you how to bypass this error.

What are the Spectrum error codes?

Here are a few error codes you may encounter on Spectrum:

  • WLC-1006 – We see you’re away from home: This makes you incapable of connecting to specific channels.
  • WLI-1010 – Unable to sign in: Prohibits you from getting into your account.
  • WLP-1035 – Service unavailable: Comes up when the selected program is unavailable.
  • WVP-3305 – Video unavailable: Comes up when requested videos are not available.

What does Spectrum NETGE-1000 error mean?

On Spectrum, NETGE 1000 indicates that your device can’t connect correctly with Spectrum servers. This is caused by:

  • Incorrect server-side user info
  • Server outages
  • Disabled pop-ups on Spectrum website

How can I fix the Spectrum NETGE-1000 error?

1. Enable pop-ups for the Spectrum site

  1. Log on to the Spectrum website.
  2. Click My Account at the top right, then Sign in.
    netge-1000 error spectrum
  3. Once signed in, click on the padlock icon of the address bar and select the Site settings option.
  4. Make sure the Pop-ups and redirects dropdown is set to Allow.
    netge-1000 error spectrum
  5. Reload the Spectrum site and see if the NETGE-1000 error is cleared.

2. Create a different Spectrum credential for the user

  1. Once again, navigate the Spectrum website and click on the option to Create a Username.
    NETGE-1000 error spectrum
  2. Choose the Contact Info option, then input the email or phone number.
  3. After which, you follow the prompts till the end.
  4. Finally, check if the Spectrum login error Netgear 1000 is fixed.

3. Reset the Spectrum credentials

  1. Once more, navigate the Spectrum site, and click the Sign-in option.
    netge-1000 error spectrum
  2. Here you should select the Forgot Username or Password option.
  3. Under the Username & ZIP Code section, enter your details, then follow the prompts till the password is reset.

The NETGE-1000 error on the Spectrum website should be fixed once you have taken these steps, and you should be able to enjoy the services again.

Some other users have experienced issues of VPN not working on Spectrum or Spectrum self-install not working; you would also be able to fix that in a few easy clicks.

How to Find the Largest Files on Windows 10? [Quick Guide]

Posted on by Matthew Adams

The files on your PC can drag it down with time when you are running out of space. In this case, you might need to delete some files to free up some hard drive space.

One quick way to do this is to find and delete the largest files. While this can be easy to talk about, finding these files is another beast.

To help ease the task, we have prepared this guide to show you the easy ways to find the largest files on your PC.

How to find the largest files and folders on Windows 10?

    1. Find largest files using File Explorer

  1. 1. Press the File Explorer button on the Windows 10 taskbar.

  2. 2. Click the View tab at the top and click Options.

    view options find largest files windows 10

  3. 3. Now, click the View tab at the top and tick the button for Show hidden files, folders, or drivers.

  4. 4. Click the Apply button, followed by OK.

    view hidden

  5. 5. Next, go back to File Explorer and click This PC in the left pane.

    this pc

  6. 6. Now, type * in the search box and hit Enter. This will add the Search tab to the menu at the top

  7. 7. Click the Size dropdown at the top and select the range you want to search for.

The first method to find the largest files on Windows 10 is to use the File Explorer. After following the steps above, you can now choose to delete or modify the files that are displayed.

Note that you should not delete or modify any large file that is a system file. This is because it can have a devasting effect on your PC.

2. Use a third-party tool

A dedicated file finder tool will help you with the utmost accuracy to find documents depending on your needs. These tools come with features that allow you to dig deep into the computer files and get exactly what you’re looking for.

As a result, you can search a file by Date, Size, Type, Name, and Folder.

Plenty of these tools come in a wide variety of subscription versions, including free ones, although some limitations to their functionality may apply.

However, you can rest assured that the most popular file types (such as Office files, Outlook emails, and attachments, text documents, archived, and multimedia files) are covered.

After finding the largest files, in case you need to keep some of them, you can still free up HDD space by moving the files from your hard drive into Google Drive or OneDrive cloud storage.

Copernic Desktop Search

Copernic Desktop Search

Find any type of document not just by their size, but also by type or saved date with this first-rate tool.
Free trialVisit website

There you have everything you need to find the largest files on Windows 10. All you need to do now is to follow the instructions therein and things should work out fine.

If you need a list of the best tools to find and remove duplicate files on your PC, check our detailed guide for the excellent options you can use.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below if you encounter any problem applying the steps in this guide,

6 Easy Ways to Fix UltraSurf if it’s not Working

Posted on by Matthew Adams

UltraSurf is a freely available app for securing browsing with proxy connections. That software enables users to bypass geographical browsing restrictions. UltraSurf is similar to VPN software, but it only encrypts HTTPS traffic.

However, sometimes users might not be able to connect with Ultrasurf. When the UltraSurf status is not connected, you might need to check some settings. The potential resolutions below might fix an UltraSurf connection.

What is UltraSurf’s platform compatibility?

UltraSurf is compatible with the Windows, Android, and iOS platforms. Thus, you can utilize it on Windows PCs and Android and iOS mobile devices. However, don’t be surprised when UltraSurf doesn’t work on Apple and Linux desktop platforms.

What are the best browsers for UltraSurf?

UltraSurf has primarily been designed for Internet Explorer and Google Chrome. Therefore, it’s best to utilize UltraSurf with those browsers. However, you can still use it with some alternative browsers.

Quick Tip:

Opera ultrasurf not working

Instead of utilizing UltraSurf for Chrome and Internet Explorer, why not use a browser with a built-in VPN instead? Opera is perhaps the most notable browser that incorporates its VPN. That built-in VPN also conceals locations so its users can bypass geo-content restrictions.

Opera also has many other fine features. Its customizable speed dials on its start page are one of Opera’s standout features.

Opera’s unique sidebar with built-in messengers and a built-in music player is another great addition. My Flow is also a great Opera sidebar feature for sharing web content.

Opera

Pick a valuable browser with an improved security proxy and built-in VPN protection.
Check price Visit website

How can I fix UltraSurf not working (connecting)?

1. Run the Internet Connections troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Update & Security.
    update and ultrasurf not working
  2. Choose Troubleshoot in the left pane and click Additional troubleshooters.
    troubleshoot
  3. Now, select Internet Connections and click Run the troubleshooter.
    run the internet

The Network Adapter troubleshooter might also come in handy for resolving UltraSurf connection issues.

2. Select a different server

UltraSurf includes three different server checkbox options for users to select from. The best server is usually determined by default, but alternative options exist. So, choose one of the other server options when UltraSurf doesn’t connect.

3. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type fire, and click Windows Defender Firewall.
    windows ultrasurf not working
  2. Choose to Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off in the left pane.
    turn windows
  3. Now, select the radio buttons for Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended) options for both the Private and Public networks.
  4. Finally, click OK to exit the window.
    turn off ultrasurf not working

Another effective solution if Ultrasurf is not working is to disable your firewall. However, It’s recommended to turn your firewall back on whenever you are not browsing the web with UltraSurf connections.

4. Uninstall third-party antivirus software and firewalls

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
    appwiz
  2. Next, select any third-party antivirus software and firewall you have installed.
  3. Finally, click the Uninstall option and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process.
    uninstall

Sometimes, Ultrasurf might not work because your antivirus software is blocking it. In this case, you can try to disable the software to see if that solves the problem.

You should remove the antivirus from your PC if that does not work. To make sure you remove all the components of the antivirus, it is recommended that you use a dedicated third-party uninstaller software in CCleaner to complete the process.

This top-notch tool will ensure there is no stubborn leftover file that can cause problems later.

5. Manually set up an UltraSurf proxy via browser settings

5.1. Google Chrome

  1. Launch Google Chrome, click the menu button (three vertical dots) in the top right corner, and select the Settings option.
    chrome settings ultrasurf not working
  2. Select the System option in the left pane.
  3. Now, click Open your computer’s proxy settings in Chrome.
    system ultrasurf not working
  4. Next, toggle the switch for Use a proxy server forward under Manual proxy setup.
  5. Input 127.0.0.1, or an alternative proxy server of preference, within the Address box.
  6. Then type 9666 within the Port box.
  7. Finally, click the Save button.
    use a proxy

If Ultrasurf is not connecting on Chrome, you might need to set up the proxy manually, as shown above.

5.2. Firefox

  1. Launch Firefox and click the menu button in the top right corner.
  2. Select the Settings option.
    settings
  3. Now, click the Settings button under the Network Settings section.
    settings
  4. Select the Manual proxy configuration option.
  5. Next, input 127.0.0.1, or a different proxy, with the HTTP Proxy box.
  6. Type 9666 in the Port box.
  7. Finally, click the OK button to save the changes.
    manual firefox ultrasurf not working

While it is not compulsory for Chrome users to manually apply proxy settings for Ultrasurf, it is one of the requirements for Firefox users.

6. Try the UltraSurf Chrome extension

There’s an UltraSurf extension for Chrome you can utilize. So, it might be worth adding that extension to Chrome when the UltraSurf app doesn’t work as anticipated. You can toggle an UltraSurf connection on/off with that add-on’s toggle button.

⇒  Get the UltraSurf extension

So, give those potential resolutions a shot when UltraSurf’s connection is not working. For further possible fixes, you can contact UltraSurf’s support at [email protected].

UltraSurf not working can often be due to security software blockages or temporary network issues. For example, you might need to disable security software when UltraSurf is not connecting with Chrome, among other solutions in this guide.

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

How to Move Windows 10 to Another Drive [Step-by-Step]

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

In case you want to free up some space on your primary hard disk, or you simply bought another hard drive, you might consider moving your entire Windows 10 operating system to a new space.

However, this is not such an easy task, and it requires you to know what you are doing to prevent data loss. In this guide, we have detailed the steps you need to follow to make the process successful the first time you try.

How to migrate Windows 10 to another drive?

1. Use the system image

1.1. Create a new system image

    1. Plug the new drive into your PC.

  2. 2. Press the Windows key, type control, and click the Control Panel option.

    control move windows 10 to another drive

  3. 3. Click the dropdown next to View by and select the Large icons option.

    large icons

  4. 4. Now, choose Backup and Restore (Windows 7).

    backup and restore

  5. 5. Click Create a system image.

    create move windows 10 to another drive

  6. 6. Tick the radio button On a hard disk and select your drive.

  7. 7. Now, click the Next button.

  8. 8. Next, select the Start Backup option and wait for the process to finish.

    start backup

  9. 9. Finally, you will get a prompt to confirm if you want to create a recovery image disk. You can choose either Yes or No for this.

The first thing you need to do to move Windows 10 to another drive is create a system image. This will essentially create a backup of your PC to the new hard drive.

It is important to note that this method will only work if the external hard drive is the same size or larger than the primary drive. If it is lower, this process is bound to fail.

After creating a system image, you can proceed to stage 2 below.

1.2. Move the system image to another disk

  1. Create and insert a Windows installation media into your PC and the new drive containing the System image.
  2. Power on your PC, press F1, F2, or Del to bring up the BIOS, and set the installation media drive as the boot drive.
  3. Now, enter your language and other info when the media installation page comes up and click Next.
    language next move windows 10 to another drive
  4. Select, Repair your computer.
    repair computer
  5. Next, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options.
    advanced options
  6. Select System Image Recovery.
    system image move windows 10 to another drive
  7. Now, tick the radio button for Select a system image and choose the new hard drive.
    select a system
  8. Click the Exclude disks… button to exempt your original system disk and click OK.
  9. Click the Next button.
  10. From here, click the Finish button, followed by Yes, to complete the restoration process.
    finish
  11. Finally, click the Restart Now button.

With this, you have successfully moved Windows 10 to an external drive. As we have mentioned earlier, this method works if you use a disk of the same or larger size as your original disk.

If you want to use a smaller disk, you might need to clone the disk using a specialized tool.

2. Use a third-party tool

  1. Download and install the Macrium Reflect Free software and run it.
  2. Check the box next to the disk containing Windows 10 and click the Clone this disk option.
    clone disk
  3. Now, click Select a disk to clone to and select your new drive under the Destination section.
    select a disk
  4. From here, select all the partitions on the new disk and click Delete Existing partition.
    delete move windows 10 to another drive
  5. Next, drag all the partitions (except the C: drive) on the Source drive to the Destination.
    drag and drop
  6. To make changes to your new drive, you can select it and choose Cloned Partition properties.
  7. Now, click the Finish button to complete the process.
  8. Click OK on the Backup Save Options page.
    backup options
  9. Finally, check the box for Confirm to proceed and click the Continue… button.
    continue

We have come to the end of this detailed guide. You now have everything you need to move Windows 10 to an external drive.

If you need a list of the best partition manager software to partition the new drive, check our excellent guide for the top options that are currently available.

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

How To Uninstall DS4Windows: 2 Ways [Full Guide]

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

If you don’t want to use the DS4Windows application anymore and looking for a way to uninstall it, you are in the right place. 

DS4Windows is a portable application. Therefore, it doesn’t need uninstallation. However, remove the files and associated drivers to remove the app. Here, this guide will walk you through the steps to uninstall the DS4Windows. Let’s start!

How can I uninstall DS4Windows completely from Windows 11?

Before uninstalling the program, make sure you have closed the app from System Tray and ended the task related to the program from Task Manager. Then, follow all the steps to get the work done.

1. Uninstall DS4Windows manually

1.1 Uninstall ViGEm, FakerInput and HidHide

  1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.CP
  2. Select View by as Category.
  3. Click on Uninstall a program.CP Uninstall
  4. Navigate to ViGEm Bus Driver and select Uninstall. Now click Yes to continue.Delete bus driver -Uninstall DS4Window
  5. You need to locate the apps named FakerInput and HidHide. Then, select them one by one and click Uninstall.FAkerinput
  6. Follow the on-screen prompts and wait for the process to complete.

1.2 Change the settings on the DS4Windows app

  1. Launch the app.
  2. Go to Settings, and remove the checkmark beside Run at Startup.Run at Startup - uninstall DS4Windows
  3. Exit the app.

1.3 Delete the associated files

  1. Go to the DS4Windows app, right-click it, and select Properties.
  2. Click Open File Location.Open File location - uninstall DS4Windows
  3. Delete all the files under DS4Windows.
  4. To delete the profile directory, press Windows + R to open the Run window.App data
  5. Type %appdata% and press Enter.
  6. On the Roaming folder, locate DS4Windows and click Delete.
  7. Delete the shortcut if you have created one.

2. Use a third-party tool to uninstall DS4Windows and its drivers

You can use a third-party tool ScpToolkit to remove DS4Windows and everything it installs with it. This tool is an XInput wrapper for DualShock controllers. Before getting this tool, ensure you have NET Framework 4.5 and the Visual C++ 2010 and 2013 packages installed on your PC. Follow these steps to uninstall:

  1. Download and Install ScpToolkit.SCPTOOL - Uninstall DS4Windows
  2. Right-click on SCPDriver.exe and select Run as administrator.
  3. This tool will delete DS4Windows along with its drivers and other files.

⇒ Get ScpToolkit

So, these are the methods that you can use to uninstall DS4Windows from your Windows 11 and 10 PC completely. You can remove DS4Windows and its associated files manually; however, if you want to get the work done without wasting time, you can use a third-party tool to get the job done.

If you have questions or concerns about uninstalling DS4Windows, feel free to mention them in the comments section below.

Integrated Webcam Vs. External: Which One to Choose?

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

If being in a video meeting or live recording sessions is a significant part of your job, then you must know the importance of a webcam. Most modern laptops and All-in-ones come with integrated webcams built into the display. However, you always have the option to get an external webcam for your device. 

Here, in this guide, we will compare integrated webcams to external ones to help you decide which is best. Let’s get started! 

What is the difference between an external webcam and an in-built webcam?

There are a few differences between an external webcam and an integrated webcam, some of which are listed below:

  • An inbuilt webcam is integrated into your laptop body. It is generally on the bezel’s top edge around the screen, which is the right height for video calls. An external webcam is a small camera mounted on your laptop or desk.
  •  The integrated webcams don’t require additional setup as they come with all the relevant software and drivers installed by the manufacturer. However, you need to install it manually, which may require a little configuration.

Is an integrated webcam better than an external webcam?

1. Webcam image and video quality

Integrated Webcam Vs. External image quality

The integrated camera fits into a compact place on the top of your laptop, giving less space for the lens, resulting in low camera performance and grainy image quality. Now with modern laptops, manufacturers have tried to improve performance by providing a resolution of up to 5MP, but the results are not also satisfying.

With an external webcam, there is more space for multiple lenses, with gives you the scope of better image quality, light sensitivity, and focusing abilities. They offer at least 1080p Full HD and often 4K resolution. You can opt for high-end expensive external webcams available to give you maximum clarity and sound quality or choose the budget-friendly ones to get the job done. 

2. Setup and cost

In-built webcams are included within the laptop or the device; that’s why it doesn’t require extra cost and additional setup. Instead, the manufacturer makes them available with preinstalled relevant drivers and software.

On the other hand, for external webcams, you need to spend extra money between $10 and $200, depending on your requirements. You need to configure them initially, but most are ready to use when plugged in.

3. Maintenance

An external webcam is easier to replace or upgrade than an internal one. However, if anything goes wrong with an in-built webcam, you need to open the display to check the lens and wiring. 

If something is wrong with the webcam, you can quickly troubleshoot the external webcam. You can check it by plugging it into a different device. However, it is impossible to do with an integrated webcam.

4. Portability

Placing an external webcam can be a task sometimes, but on the other hand, it can be great if you want to shoot or record from different angles. You can bend it or twist its head to adjust the view easily.

However, with an internal webcam, you don’t have the scope to change the position of the lens without changing the placement of your laptop or computer monitor. And that, too, has limitations. 

If you are on the move, an integrated camera is preferred as, unlike external ones; you don’t have to set it up every time you hop in a video call. Thus, making it less time taking and more convenient.

5. Range of features

With wide-angle lenses, stereo microphones, and advanced auto-focus capabilities external webcam has superior image, audio, and video quality with wide angle and zoom options than an integrated webcam.

The external ones have an extensive range of default features, including facial tracking, exposure, smart focus, etc. Most external webcams also can adjust for poor lighting to get you a better picture or video quality, even if the light is not ideal.

On the other hand, a high-end computer or laptop can also provide you with a better-quality integrated camera. And with advanced software, you can get better results than external webcams.

Quick comparison: Integrated webcam Vs. External webcam

ParametersIntegrated CameraExternal Webcam
LensDoesn’t have space to fit a multi-piece lens, thus affecting image qualityIt has a multi-piece lens, which gives better-quality images and video
CostNo additional cost, as it comes with your laptop or deviceYou need to spend $50 or more to get a high-end device.
SetupDrivers and software are already installed in the device, so no additional setup is required.You need to configure the webcam with your device initially
Maintenance You can’t replace or upgrade the lens without opening the laptop or device it is installed inYou can easily upgrade to a better one without disturbing your device.
PortabilityYou don’t need to set up if you are on the move but don’t have the liberty to change the placement as you likeSetting it up may require an extra effort, but it can be great for capturing different angles and views as you can set it up anywhere.
FeaturesLimited features but has scope to enhance the quality with software available.It has a wide range of features to capture images and videos with supreme-quality audio.

Which is the best external webcam?

One of the best external webcams available is WyreStorm FOCUS 210, which has advanced features and is best known for its 4k recording. However, if you want to explore that, you can check out the best external webcams available here.

Choosing between an integrated webcam and an external one all comes down to your needs and the product’s price. One gives you portability and flexibility, and the other gives you better picture and sound quality. 

If picture quality is what you need, you can either buy a high-end webcam for your computer to get clearer video and audio quality while streaming or recording. Else, invest in a high-end computer or laptop to fulfill your needs.

So, integrated webcam vs. external, if given a choice, what would you choose? Feel free to let us know in the comments section below.

Top Free Recording Software for Windows 10 [Audio & Music]

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Audio production is one of the most important parts of media production. Most professionals are already used to a certain set of recording software for Windows that they feel comfortable with.

Although, knowing all options is critical for anyone who wants to improve over time. This list will cover both types of users.  Those who want something more advanced, probably need premium music production solutions.

Alternatively, there are recording studio software tools free to download. They are ideal for those who want something very basic and barebone.

We will be highlighting some of the best recording software for Windows 10. Some of them you might already know of, but some might enlarge your perspective:

  • ? Adobe Audition – Professionally record, edit, mix and repair audio files
  • ?️ WavePad – Speech synthesis and voice changer capabilities
  • ?️ GiliSoft Audio Recorder Pro – Linear recording & support for all sound formats
  • ?️ Sound Forge Pro – Multi-channel recording & VST3 effect support
  • ? Audials One – Best streaming recorder for music & audiobooks
  • ? Leawo Music Recorder – Built-in recordings library
  • ?️ PreSonus Studio One – Intuitive drag-and-drop-based workflows

How do I record for free on Windows 10?

Although the software in our list can offer you high-quality audio recording, if you just want to take a quick vocal note for personal use, you can try that with the built-in Voice Recorder in Windows.

Without further ado, here’s how to record music on Windows 10 directly:

  1. Click the Start button, type voice, and click on the Voice Recorder app from the results.
  2. Hit the big Record button from the left.
  3. The tool will start recording and you will see a time counter. You can also click the Flag icon below to add a marker to your audio.
  4. After you finish recording and press the Stop button, you will see all your recordings on the left and click the one that you want to play.

It cannot get more simple than that. And you also have some basic editing features below the player like sharing, trimming, deleting, and renaming the audio track.

What is the best recording software for PC free?

Adobe Audition – Professionally record, edit, mix and repair audio files

Adobe Audition is a versatile software that you can use to record, edit, mix, and repair your audio files.

You can enjoy Audition for a wide variety of purposes, ranging from recording podcasts and interviews to recording vocals.

Once you’ve recorded your track, you can polish it and use the built-in tools to change the volume, apply various effects, maybe add a Studio Reverb effect if you fancy it, and more.

You can also use the Multitrack Editor to combine several audio recordings into a single piece. This is an excellent tool for podcasters to use.

The Dynamics Processing features automatically lower the volume on the other tracks if it detects a voiceover track. It integrates perfectly with Premiere Pro allowing you to add your own audio to videos.

Another interesting function is Strip Silence which identifies and removes silent or inactive portions of the track automatically, without losing synchronization in multitrack audio.

You will really appreciate that you are able to apply effects to each clip, track, and tweak them even while playing the mix.

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

  • Complete integration with other Adobe products like Premiere Pro
  • Automatically rearrange any song to fit any duration
  • Excellent tools to create podcasts
  • Friendly interface even for non-professionals
  • Includes precision editing tool for videos

Adobe Audition

This tool includes everything you’d need as a professional for your audio projects. Give it a try!
Free trial Visit website

WavePad – Speech synthesis and voice changer capabilities

WavePad is a professional audio recording and editing software that offers more features than you’ll possibly have the time to test.

You can record, cut, copy and paste sounds, and then add effects like echo, amplification, and noise reduction.

WavePad supports almost all audio files which means you can always rely on this tool to edit even the most obscure file types – WavePad can handle it.

This tool is particularly great for vocals editing because it comes with advanced tools like spectral analysis (FFT), speech synthesis (text-to-speech), and voice changer.

Of course, you can play with audio effects like amplify, normalize, equalizer, envelope, reverb, echo, reverse, and many more.

It can also help you to restore a track with the built-in noise reduction function as well as the click pop removal. In other words, it cleans the recording of any unpleasant sounds.

WavePad can work with any mono or stereo audio track with sample rates from 6 to 192 kHz, and 8, 16, 24, or 32 bits.

The key features of WavePad are:

  • Separated and multichannel recording
  • Integrated VST plugin support for access to thousands of additional tools and effects
  • Batch processing allows you to apply effects and/or convert thousands of files as a single function
  • Scrub, search, and bookmark audio for precise editing
  • Create bookmarks and regions to find, recall and assemble segments of long audio files
  • Spectral analysis (FFT), speech synthesis (text-to-speech), and voice changer

WavePad

Full features for audio and music editing, compatible with Windows and Mac OS – eager to enjoy it?
Free trial Visit website

GiliSoft Audio Recorder Pro – Linear recording & support for all formats

GiliSoft Audio Recorder Pro is a great tool for all novices and average audio software users who want to record certain sounds.

However, do not get confused as it quickly transforms into a high-tech tool for professional users too.

Its functionalities allow you to record a lot of audio material like instant messaging talks (Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Google Talks), Internet broadcasts, and simple voice.

You can use it to record voice and convert it to MP3, WMA, and WAV. It supports multiple sound cards so most definitely it will work on your PC.

It has a preset for all sound formats so you can get a smooth and linear sound when recording to different file formats, but you also can play with the presets if you need it.

This tool includes an advanced automatic recording that helps you schedule recording for a website or anything that runs on your PC to start or stop at a certain time.

Resuming, this audio recording software is the best for home use and for beginners and it works perfectly on Windows 10.

Take a look at its best features below:

  • Recording Skype, Yahoo Messenger, and Google Talk
  • Friendly interface with simple controls
  • Great file type support
  • Automatic recording scheduling
  • High quality recordings

Gilisoft Audio Recorder Pro

A simple and reliable audio software to record sounds to MP3, AAC, M4R, or WMA audio files.
Check price Visit website

Sound Forge Pro – Multi-channel recording & VST3 effect support

If you want professional audio recording software, Sound Forge Pro might be just what you need.

The application supports multi-channel recording, powerful editing features, and an array of plugins to choose from.

Sound Forge Pro has a professional user interface, and thanks to the 64-bit support, you’ll achieve maximum performance during audio processing.

There’s also VST3 effect support, allowing you to use all sorts of plug-ins for your audio creations. Of course, the application comes with three noise reduction effects allowing you to create clear audio recordings.

Note that it can work with 32 channels of recorded audio, and it also allows you to easily edit or convert your audio in a multichannel environment.

In order to streamline the recording process, it supports a one-touch recording feature, and there’s also support for high-quality Direct Stream Digital files.

There’s also support for MIDI timecodes, so you can trigger playback or recording by receiving the timecode from another device.

Let’s review some of its best features:

As for audio editing, all standard features are available, and you can use the Event tool to edit multiple audio events in a single window. You may also edit the waveform simply by redrawing it with the Pencil tool.

If you use other Magix software, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can create ACID loops using this tool.

  • You can create ACID loops
  • MIDI timecodes support
  • Professional user interface
  • Simple edit of the waveform by using the Pencil tool
  • VST3 plugin supports a lot of effects

Sound Forge Pro

Try out the industry-standard tool for recording and mastering tracks, and go beyond musically right away.
Free trial Visit website

Audials One – Best streaming recorder for music & audiobooks

Music, charts, videos, movies, TV series, live TV, and more can be saved fast and in the best quality with the new Audials One!

Audials One offers the largest music database with 12,000,000 MP3s and provides you legally and for free with each piece of music by 3,000,000 musicians.

Simply enter the title, album, or artist and Audials One will find the music in just a few seconds from the connected music video portals like YouTube, Spotify, or from the 100,000 monitored Internet radio stations.

This means for you: all the pieces of music that you always wanted to have plus always the latest charts are at your disposal.

Audials One is also the best streaming recorder for music and audiobooks on Spotify and Amazon Music, or to build your own home video library with films and series from Amazon, Netflix & Co.

333 live TV streams from around the world make television an experience. You always have the program of all your favorite channels with you and can even record it with one click.

Let’s see some of its most important features:

If you’re missing a live stream channel, just add it manually. With the online TV in Audials One, you are far ahead of other providers and enjoy conveniently thousands of programs.

No software offers so many additional features: podcasts, music TV, player, music management, video library, ID3 Tagger, DVD copier, universal converter for all file formats, and all devices.

  • Streaming recorder for audiobooks on Spotify and Amazon Music
  • Record live TV streams from around the world
  • 100,000 monitored Internet radio stations
  • Huge music library with over 12 million MP3s
  • Great music and video management

Audials One

Need all-in-one service? Recording, movies, or music streaming are all there with this stunning software.
Check price Visit website

Leawo Music Recorder – Built-in recordings library

Leawo Music Recorder is a friendly music recording software that helps you record free music from any built-in input audio, computer audio (including Windows and macOS), and online music sources, like YouTube, Spotify, AOL Music, Last.FM, etc.

And then, you can easily save them in MP3 or WAV file format with lossless quality so you can use them in your playlists or musical projects.

Also, the tool supports a variety of online radio stations and Podcasts like AOL Radio, Sound Cloud, NPC, iHeartRadio, RTVE, 8 Tracks, RDIO, iTunes Radio, BBC Radio Audio, and many others.

Of course, you can use it to record your microphone or any input audio streams from the built-in or discrete computer soundcard.

Leawo Music Recorder can even record the music or audio that is playing on your computer locally.

Take a look at some of the most important features:

And to keep all recordings organized, the software can automatically add tags, that’s if you’re not doing it yourself in the dedicated music tag editor.

To up the ante, the app comes with a built-in library that helps you keep track of and manage all the recordings with ease.

  • Record any sound from your computer and online music sources
  • Save your recording in MP3 or WAV formats with lossless quality
  • Add tags automatically or manually to keep track of your recordings
  • Built-in library for track management
  • Windows PC and macOS seamless compatibility

Leawo Music Recorder

Record and edit any sounds and music online, from your computer and its inputs with this great tool!
Check price Visit website

PreSonus Studio One – Intuitive drag-and-drop-based workflows

PreSonus Studio One comes in various paid versions, plus a free version, but the latter is rather restrictive.

The free option does not let you import or export MP3 – for obvious reasons – it also won’t let you upload directly to SoundCloud, a feature that is liked very much in its paid versions.

While this sounds very limiting in terms of features, the free version will not alter your projects or reduce their quality because you didn’t pay up.

Although it might lack certain obvious features, it still continues to include other advanced tools such as time-stretching, latency compensation, etc. that can help you create the track as you like.

The free version acts more like a demo rather than a full software, and ideally, you should consider paying for it after trying out the free one.

Let’s briefly go through its most important features:

Otherwise, Studio One is also friendly to beginners because the workflow is based on the drag-and-drop method for tracks, plug-ins, effects, and presets, so it’s pretty straightforward.

You can even convert MIDI to audio or audio to MIDI by dragging and dropping. It cannot get easier than that, right?

  • Friendly interface and simple, drag-and-drop functionality
  • Extract chord notes directly from the audio
  • Advanced plug-ins for sound processing
  • Multi-source processing for analog and digital sound
  • Powerful compilation tools for music assembling

⇒ Get Presonus Studio One

What should you look for in audio recording software?

Whether you want to have your personal recording studio or you’re into podcasting, there are different solutions out there that will fit perfectly.

However, we have a few pointers on how to choose the audio recording software for your needs.

➡ Match the tool to your needs

If you’re recording some audio podcasts, you will just need a good vocal editor with basic effects and noise reduction features.

WavePad’s huge sound effects database

Any tool on our list will help you with that, but if you’re into studio-quality recordings for vocals and instruments, you will also need powerful plug-in support and effects.

➡ Test the software interface

It’s important to get a tool that matches your level of knowledge. A professional audio studio may be too complicated for a beginner.

Most of the tools have a demo or trial version so you can test them and see if the features you’re going to use the most are accessible and if the interface is intuitive.

➡ Look for plug-in support

Audio recording software tools usually come with basic effects and samples and rely on plug-ins for extra features. Therefore, it’s important to verify if you can install your necessary add-ons.

We hope that our list including the best audio recording software available for Windows 10 helped you find what you were looking for.

Some are complicated and suited for an extremely professional environment while the others are basic and can be used for simpler things like your weekly podcast.

They don’t even do anything except record your voice and save it in a file, just like the Voice Recorder app in Windows 10 but you can agree that they are extremely easy to use.

Did you try any of these tools? If so, tell us about your experience in a comment in the dedicated section below.

5 Best Backup Software for Servers [Budget Wise]

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The need for a powerful backup software solution for servers is obvious for any business. They became known as a great way to avoid sudden data loss issues.

They are also powerful enough to face severe virus attacks, yet don’t take these servers for granted.

How can backup software for servers protect my business?

It is still essential to ensure your data is securely backed up, as all kinds of events may happen out of the blue.

With so many backup programs in the market being too expensive or having extra features that are not user-friendly, making a choice isn’t always easy.

Following is a list of top-budget backup software tools for servers, so rest assured that your hard earned money is safe.

What’s the best backup software for servers on a low budget?

Acronis Cyber Backup – Great backup monitoring

That’s our top pick for a good reason. As a top-tier suite of backup solutions, it’s rock-solid when it comes to backing up data to a storage location of your choice, including Acronis Cloud or Azure.

Acronis Cyber Backup promises a full-featured backup solution for the entire Windows Server environment, so you’ll be pleased to hear that it covers cloud accounts, phones, laptops, and more.

It is also incredibly simple to restore backups in the unfortunate event of a crash, not to mention the built-in protection against malware and ransomware.

Lastly, keep in mind that there’s a full use period of no less than 30 days to decide if Acronis Cyber Backup ticks all the boxes or not.

These are some key features that Acronis Cyber Backup brings to the table:

  • Data management is easily done through a web browser
  • Scores highly on security (AES-256 encryption)
  • AI assistance for spotting potential issues
  • Ease of cloud backups
  • Efficient recovery tools
  • 30-day free trial

Aomei Backuper Server – Simple and fast backup

Managing backups is just one of your countless responsibilities, so consider Aomei Backuper Server for all-in-one easy installation and various specialized tools for data protection.

Do keep in mind that Aomei Backupper Server is targeting both small and mid-size businesses, so it provides detailed backup reports of successes and failures.

Therefore, it is incredibly easy to troubleshoot issues and make sure that all backups follow the plan.

On top of these, it’s more than a solution for data protection. It specializes in disaster recovery as well and it offers a wealth of powerful Universal Restore tools.

These are some key features that Aomei Server Backuper brings to the table:

  • Image deployment tools
  • User-friendly interface
  • Real-time file sync
  • Disk and partition backup
  • Automatic clean-ups
  • Intuitive data restoration

Handy Backup – Very easy to use

We have taken into account multiple circumstances that any business would be in when needing to back up a server.

Handy Backup easily stands out as one of the best software tools for servers.

Firstly, it offers countless client and server backup solutions to back up Hyper-V images on local machines and even VMware virtual machines.

Even more, the Management Panel will make you feel right at home any time you want to set up, schedule, and control server backup and recovery tasks in your domain.

These are some key features that Handy Backup brings to the table:

  • Backs up websites, cloud accounts, MS Exchange, FTP storages, and more
  • ZIP data compression features
  • Backup tasks controlled from one console
  • Silent Mode
  • Windows Server and Linux compatibility
  • Free tech support

Carbonite – Perfect for small businesses

Carbonite has lots of bases covered too when it comes to looking for the best budget backup software for servers.

Known as one of the most reliable backup services available to Windows and Mac OS users, Carbonite promises automatic cloud backup for all data on your server.

One of the benefits of using it includes the fact that it also protects photos, video files, tax forms, and not only against ransomware attacks.

No less important, you’re about to enjoy backup software and unlimited cloud storage service for one PC.

These are some key features that Carbonite brings to the table:

  • Very intuitive UI
  • Backups from the entire computer or server
  • Countless backup destinations, including external hard drives
  • Powerful data migration tools
  • Advanced encryption
  • Intuitive recovery features

Backup Exec – Very cost-effective

While we’ve seen other backup solutions that are indeed more polished than Backup Exec, that’s one of the few cost-effective protection and recovery solutions for your data.

Since it is a reliable solution to manage your entire data ecosystem from a single console, it can help you save valuable resources with easy deployment.

Despite the strong reliability of backups, you need to consider the risk of failure through malicious activity and not only.

To let you know in time, Backup Exec helps you track every backup, replication, and recovery procedure.

These are some key features that Backup Exec brings to the table:

  • Backup procedures done in a few clicks
  • SaaS workloads protection
  • Certified cloud connectors for popular cloud vendors
  • Instant recovery of VMs
  • Integrated bare-metal disaster recovery
  • Ransomware Resilience security features

⇒ Get Backup Exec

When looking for the best backup software for servers, these are the most cost-effective solutions on the market.

You might also be interested to consult our list of the best Windows Server backup software.

Let us know which budget backup software for servers you finally decided to go for in the comments section below.

Error Code 56d85bb8 in NBA [Fixed]

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Some NBA 2K23 players are getting error code 56d85bb8 on Xbox One, PlayStation, and PC. The error, as stated, is usually related to the internet connection you are using, and there is no update from the developers on how to fix it. However, there are specific workarounds to fix this problem. 

This guide will discuss the popular reasons for the issue and the available fixes to resolve the error here. Let’s start!

What causes the error 56d85bb8?

There are various reasons for the error code 56d85bb8. Some of the popular ones are mentioned here: 

  • The game server is down: If the NBA game server is down due to outage issues or if there is a problem with the online servers, then you might get this error.
  • Slow internet connection – You need a steady internet connection to run the game smoothly. If your internet connectivity is poor, you can see this error.
  • The device has pending updates – Be it your PS, Xbox, or your PC, if the device is not up to date, it might cause all kinds of issues. Check for updates for your device and if available, install them.

How do I fix error 56d85bb8?

Before engaging in advanced troubleshooting steps, you should consider performing the following checks:

If you are still stuck with the error, follow the below-mentioned methods to fix the error: 

1. Check the game server

  1. Go to this website.NBA status -error code 56d85bb8
  2. Locate your device and check the status. If it says Up and Running, then the server is working fine.

2. Go offline/online

Tip icon Tip
To disable an internet connection on PlayStation, you can go to Settings, then click Network. Next, remove the checkmark for Connect to the Internet. Then, to enable it, place the checkmark again.
  1. Go to Settings on Xbox.Settings
  2. Click Network Settings.Network Settings
  3. On the next screen, select Go offline. Go offline error code 56d85bb8
  4. Now wait for 2-3 minutes, and select Go online.
  5. Close the Settings app and launch NBA.

3. Set static IP & Port Forwarding

3.1 Find IP and MAC address

  1. Go to Settings on Xbox. Settings error code 56d85bb8
  2. Select Network Settings, then Advanced Settings.Advanced settings
  3. Locate the IP address section and note the IP and MAC addresses.
Tip icon Tip
To find MAC and IP addresses on PlayStation, navigate to Settings, then Network. Next, go to View Connection Status, and note them down.

3.2 Add Static IP to the router

  1. Go to your preferred browser.
  2. Enter the IP address for your router—login using your credentials.
  3. Locate and click IP & MAC Binding.Router 1 -error code 56d85bb8
  4. Click Add New.
  5. Enter the IP and MAC addresses you noted in the previous step.IP AND MAC
  6. Click Save.

3.3 Port Forwarding

  1. Now go to Forwarding/Port Forwarding section. Wireless Router forwarding- error code 56d85bb8
  2. Click Add New.
  3. Type the Service port you want to open and the IP Address of your device(PC, Xbox, PlayStation).
  4. Select Protocol to TCP, UDP, or ALL; Change Status to Enabled.Internal port
  5. Click Save.

The ports that you can use for your devices, including PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, etc.:

Device NameTCPUDP
 PlayStation 41935,3478-34803074,3478-3479
Steam27015-27030,27036-270374380,27000-27031,27036
Xbox One307488,500,3074,3544,4500
Switch6667,12400,28910,29900,29901,299201-65535

So, these are methods that you can use to fix error code 56d85bb8 NBA 2K21. If none of the above methods worked for you, try reinstalling the game. 

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

VPN Not Working on Omegle: Fastest Ways To Fix [2026]

Posted on by Vlad Constantinescu

Omegle is a popular chatting service that lets you match with other random participants and engage in conversation.

On the downside, Omegle doesn’t encrypt chat data and keeps it on a server, so it’s possible for malevolent agents to access it.

The obvious solution is to use a VPN. Unfortunately, many VPNs are not working with Omegle.

If you want to find out more about this issue and learn how to make VPNs work with Omegle, keep on reading.

Why does my VPN not work on Omegle?

The main reason why you have the Omegle error connecting to the server VPN is that your IP address was identified and blocked.

Some privacy software had the error connecting to server VPN, such as Surfshark or ProtonVPN.

Note icon NOTE
It’s known that Omegle bans VPNs from different people by their IP addresses for various reasons, so you might want to check your VPN client and reconnect on another server.

Even more, the Omegle error connecting to server can happen for other reasons and leads to the website not working, so you need to take immediate action.

➡️ How to use Omegle with VPN?

If you need to bypass this unpleasant event on this conversational video chat website, be sure to use the right VPN software that offers secured servers with blazing-fast speed.

Thus, you can follow the next steps to connect to your VPN and start chatting on Omegle:

  1. Download and install ExpressVPN.
  2. Log in to your VPN client.
    ExpressVPN-iniciar-sesión
  3. In the main window, connect to any server you prefer.
  4. Wait for the connection to be established.
  5. Now, go to the Omegle website and start chatting.

How do I fix VPN not working with Omegle?

1. Do not use free VPNs

Free VPNs are not inherently bad and untrustworthy, but they offer a limited number of servers.

On top of that, free VPN servers tend to get overcrowded, which increases the chance of detection and blocking.

To be more specific, it’s impossible to benefit from the same online protection and VPN connection quality using a free VPN instead of paid software.

You also miss significant features that premium VPNs can offer you in order to encrypt your personal data and guard you against cyber threats.

2. Try obfuscation-ready VPNs

The main reason why certain VPNs are not working on Omegle is that they get detected. No, it doesn’t mean that Omegle can decrypt VPN traffic.

It means that Omegle knows whether you’re behind a VPN or not and decides to pull the plug on your connection.

VPNs with obfuscation features can easily mask VPN traffic, making it appear like regular traffic.

As a result, Omegle won’t be able to detect VPN traffic as easily, therefore it won’t make any efforts to try and stop you from using its service.

Check out our top obfuscation-ready VPNs in the list below:

Product NameObfuscationCompany Name
ExpressVPNStealth serversExpress VPN International Ltd.
Private Internet AccessWireGuard VPN protocolKape Technologies.
NordVPNObfuscated ServersTefincom & Co., S.A.
Surfshark VPNCamouflage ModeSurfshark LTD
VyprVPNChameleon protocolGolden Frog GmbH
IPVanishScramble OpenVPN trafficStackPath, LLC
TunnelBearStealth VPNMcAfee, LLC
Windscribe VPNStealth VPNWindscribe Limited
VPN UnlimitedKeepSolid WiseKeepSolid Inc.

3. Use VPN software with private DNS

If the VPN service comes with Private DNS servers, it would be wise to use this feature.

As far as bypassing geo-restrictions goes, enabling Private DNS does a better job than using a VPN that lacks this option.

Aside from preventing DNS leaks that could compromise your privacy, Private DNS also reduces VPN detection/blocking rate.

4. Consider VPN browser addons

Use the VPN’s web browser extension to prevent WebRTC leaks if possible. As we briefly explained above, leaks are bad for VPN detection rates.

Whether it’s IPv4, IPv6, DNS, or WebRTC leaks, they make it possible for various online systems to detect VPN traffic and successfully block it.

Omegle makes no exception. So, to make your VPN connection airtight, we recommend using the VPN’s browser extension to eliminate WebRTC leaks.

5. Get VPNs with multi-hop connections

Certain VPN services provide their customers with a useful feature that lets them bounce their connections through more than just one location.

For instance, NordVPN has a feature called Double VPN, which bounces your connection through two secure servers. You can read all about it in our in-depth NordVPN review.

However, using proxy servers such as Shadowsocks or SOCKS5 also grants the same effect.

The bottom line is that you’re less likely to be blocked if your connection is not tied to just one location.

6. Flush your DNS

flush DNS servers in Windows 10
  1. Launch a command prompt (CMD)
  2. Type the following commands
    • ipconfig /flushdns
    • ipconfig /registerdns
    • ipconfig /release
    • ipconfig /renew
    • netsh winsock reset
  3. Restart your PC

Sometimes, cached data build-ups can contribute to various connectivity issues. Clearing the cache usually solves many of these problems.

Flushing your DNS and resetting the Winsock is such an operation and could help you make your VPN work with Omegle once again.

? More solutions you can try

  1. Enable the VPN kill switch
  2. Keep your VPN client up-to-date
  3. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies
  4. Use your browser’s incognito mode
  5. Always pick the strongest encryption protocols
  6. Switch the VPN server if Omegle rejects your current one

Best VPNs for Omegle

In this day and age, the VPN market offers an overwhelming amount of options. But as we mentioned, not all VPNs are made equal.

So how do you pick the best one for Omegle?

Luckily, we took it upon ourselves to find out. We tested top-ranking VPNs to make sure they’re error-free on Omegle. Additionally, we made sure they offer great speed, privacy features, and ease of use.

All things considered, these are our top picks:

ExpressVPN – best VPN for Omegle

expressvpn working on omegle

ExpressVPN has servers in 94 countries. With this coverage, you can rest assured that you have plenty of options to securely access Omegle.

Just like PIA, this VPN has excellent speed rates. We registered The lowest rate on a US server –  72.93 Mbps (download).

This speed easily supports heavy-duty tasks like gaming, so connecting to Omegle will be a breeze.

On top of that, ExpressVPN has built-in obfuscation on all servers. This means your VPN traffic is undetectable. Therefore, you won’t have to deal with VPN errors like Omegle not connecting to servers.

✅ Pros:

  • Shields data with AES-256-bit encryption and obfuscation
  • 5000+ servers worldwide
  • Easy-to-use apps on all major devices
  • Tested zero-logs policy

❌ Cons:

  • Pricier than competitors

ExpressVPN

Upgrade to this reliable VPN for an error-free experience on Omegle!
Check price Visit Website

Private Internet Access – huge network

omegle working with pia vpn connected

PIA has a huge network of 35,000+ VPN servers in 80+ countries. So you can securely access Omegle from anywhere without worrying about overcrowding and slowdowns.

The lowest speed we registered when we tested it with Omegle was 78.89 Mbps (download), on a New York server. That’s more than plenty to maintain a good connection with excellent video quality.

Also worth noting are its obfuscation and multi-hop features. When you use them, your VPN traffic looks like regular HTTPS.

Therefore, you’ll have no issues bypassing Omegle IP bans or accessing it from restricted countries like Qatar or the UAE.

✅ Pros:

  • Top-level encryption for unbreakable privacy on Omegle
  • Dedicated apps for all platforms
  • DNS and IP leak protection features
  • 45-day refund time
  • Security kill switch to prevent data leaks

❌ Cons:

  • The app is slightly outdated
  • Based in the US (not the most privacy-friendly country)

Private Internet Access?

Looking for a VPN that works on Omegle? PIA might be the one.
Check price Visit Website

NordVPN – extensive security

omegle working with nordvpn

This tool has 5000+ servers in 60 countries. It stands out because it has specialty servers for different purposes: obfuscated servers, double VPN, P2P, and more.

Now, we all know Omegle tries to ban VPNs, and it’s getting really good at it. But if you use NordVPN’s obfuscated servers or double VPN, you won’t have to worry.

You’ll remain under the radar. No server errors when connected to Omegle, and certainly no You’ve been banned pop-ups.

Moreover, when we tested NordVPN on Omegle, the lowest speed we registered was 59.86Mbps (download) on a Swiss server. That’s more than excellent speed for Omegle, whether for texting or video.

✅ Pros:

  • Advanced security features
  • Military-grade encryption
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Large network of servers

❌ Cons:

  • Due to its popularity, some regular servers were blocked by Omegle

NordVPN

Lift bans and protect your Omegle data with NordVPN!
Check price Visit Website

How does Omegle block VPNs?

If Omegle blocks your VPN address it means that your server address was detected and banned so you can’t hide your real location.

So if Omegle doesn’t work with VPN software means that its server network is easy to identify. Omegle can detect and block that by tracking multiple connections using only one IP address.

How to use VPN on Omegle without a ban?

To use a VPN on Omegle without getting a ban, you have to enable security features that disguise VPN traffic. Using them, it’s less likely that Omegle will know you use a VPN.

Most VPN apps call these obfuscation features.

Usually, you can easily enable them from your VPN’s settings. For instance, in PIA you have to go to Settings> Multi-Hop> Check Multi-hop and Obfuscation.

pia multi hop feature

Alternatively, you can use a dedicated IP. As opposed to regular VPN IP addresses, this one’s only yours, no other VPN users will share it.

The benefit of this is that Omegle won’t get multiple connections incoming from the same IP/IP range. This makes it more difficult for the platform to associate your traffic with VPN use.

The only drawback here is that most VPNs charge extra for dedicated IPs.

If your VPN is not working on Omegle, there might be hope for you.

Discover Omegle and check out the best tips, tricks, solutions, and guides we offer you. Also, visit our VPN Troubleshooting section if you want to read more user-friendly VPN tutorials.

However, note that our suggested fixes may not work all the time or for everyone.

If that’s the case and you can’t find a working suggestion, please get in touch with your VPN provider’s support team for a fix.

Fix Printer Stuck on Spooling for Good [Step-by-Step Guide]

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Many users frequently print documents on Windows, but unfortunately, certain problems can occur from time to time.

One recurring issue is the printer stuck on spooling case. And you guessed it, whenever this happens, the printer keeps spooling endlessly. In other words, the printer says spooling but never prints.

Before we go any further, what does spooling mean on printer? The spooling status on a printer basically indicates that your job is in a queue while other documents are being printed.

While it is normal for spooling to take a bit longer since the software handles two tasks simultaneously, it shouldn’t be spooling forever.

Here’s the big question: Why does my printer get stuck on spooling? Let’s find out together.

Why is my printer spooling and not printing?

From software conflicts due to incompatible versions to deprecated or damaged drivers, glitchy Windows accounts of profiles, file corruption, and overzealous security programs, there can be many culprits behind this issue.

Now, users repeatedly reported the printer status spooling on Windows 10. However, that is far from being the only platform impacted, or the only manifestation of the issue, as follows:

  • Printer stuck on spooling Windows 11, Windows 7
  • Printer spooling but not printing, printer status spooling but not printing
  • Network printer spooling but not printing
  • Printer spooling forever – printer says spooling but never prints
  • Print job stuck on spooling, checking the spooler service
  • HP, Canon, Brother, Xerox, Epson, Windows, Sharp printer stuck on spooling
  • Adobe PDF printer stuck on spooling
  • Printer server stuck on spooling
  • Printer stuck on deleting spooling

How do you fix a spooling problem?

1. Move files and restart the Print Spooler service

1.1 Move the files to a different folder

  1. Open File Explorer and go to the following folder: C:\Windows\system32\spool\drivers
  2. You should see three folders available: IA64, W32X86, and x64.
  3. Open each of these folders and search for a directory called 3. This directory should have a large number of number folders inside it. For example, W32X8631, W32X8632, etc.
  4. Select all the numbered directories inside the 3 folders, right-click them and choose Cut.
  5. Now paste those folders to a different directory. For example, you can move them to your Desktop or any other folder.

During the printing process, the files will be sent to the printing queue, but sometimes there can be a problem with those files or with the Print Spooler service, so you’ll need to move those files and restart the service.

If you’re having problems using copy-paste, take a look at this useful guide that will help you fix any copy-paste issues in Windows 10 with ease.

1.2 Restart the Print Spooler service

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter services.msc. Press Enter or click OK.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-services-1
  2. Locate the Print Spooler service and check its status.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-services-2
  3. If the Print Spooler service isn’t running, you can start it by right-clicking it and choosing Start from the menu.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-services-3

After moving the numbered folders to a different location, you’ll need to restart the Print Spooler service. To do that, follow the steps above.

You can follow this in depth print spooler repair guide to apply more fixes when your printer stays stuck on spooling.

1.3 Restart the co-dependant services

  1. In the Services window locate Print Spooler, right-click it and choose Properties.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-services-4
  2. Look for available services in This service depends on the following system components field. Print Spooler service is dependent on those services and in order to start it you need to enable those services first.
  3. In addition to enabling the services, you need to set their Startup Type as Automatic. After the depending services are enabled, try to start Print Spooler again.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-services-5

Sometimes, the Print Spooler service can’t start due to problems with dependent services, and if that happens, you need to perform the steps above.

1.4 Restart the Print Spooler service using Command Prompt

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator. You can do that by pressing Windows Key + S and typing cmd, then clicking on Run as administrator.
  2. When Command Prompt opens, you can enter net stop spooler command to stop Print Spooler and net start spooler to start the Print Spooler service.

If you don’t want to use the Services window, you can easily restart the Print Spooler service by using Command Prompt. Some users prefer this approach since it’s faster, but you can use any method that works for you.

To restart Print Spooler using Command Prompt, perform the previous steps above.

After moving the numbered folders to a different location and restarting the Print Spooler service, the issue should be completely resolved.

Need to turn the service back on in Windows 11? Follow our guide to enable Print Spooler and restore printing quickly.

2. Reinstall the printer driver

2.1 Update drivers manually

  1. Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager from the list.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-device-1
  2. When Device Manager opens, locate your printer. If you can’t find it, go to the View tab and check Show hidden devices.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-device-2
  3. Locate your printer, right-click it and choose Uninstall.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-device-3
  4. Check Delete Driver Software for this device and click OK.
  5. After the uninstall process is completed, restart your PC.

Sometimes problems with printing stuck on spooling can occur due to your drivers, and one way to fix that problem is to reinstall your printer driver. To do that, follow the steps above.

Now that the printer driver is uninstalled, go to your printer manufacturer’s website, locate your printer model and download the latest driver for it.

Run the setup file and wait until the driver is installed. After that, check if the error is resolved.

2.2 Update drivers automatically

After you have uninstalled your drivers, we recommend reinstalling/updating them automatically with a specialized driver updating tool.

Downloading and installing drivers manually is a process that carries the risk of getting the wrong driver installed, which may lead to serious malfunctions in your system.

Drivers can then be updated in batches or one at a time, without requiring the user to make any complex decisions in the process.

3. Downgrade to the older version of Office

Many users use Microsoft Office to edit and print their documents, but according to some users, printing can get stuck on spooling due to problems with Office.

One suggested solution that worked for some users is to downgrade their Office installation to the previous version. After doing that, the issues with printing were completely resolved.

4. Delete all pending documents

  1. Go to the following folder: C:\Windows\System32\Spool\Printers
  2. You should see all pending print jobs inside the Printers folder. Delete all the files inside it and restart your PC.

All your documents are moved to a specific folder before they are printed, but sometimes certain issues can occur with Print Spooler that can prevent the printing process on your PC.

One suggested solution is to delete the pending documents from their folder, but before you can do that, you’ll need to stop the Print Spooling service.

  1. To do that, simply open the Services window and locate the Print Spooler service.
  2. Right-click it and choose to Stop from the menu.
  3. In addition, be sure to set the Startup Type for Print Spooler to Automatic.
  4. After doing that, you need to delete all queued printing jobs. To do that, follow the easy steps above.
  5. After your PC restarts, navigate to the Services window and check if the Print Spooler service is running.

If everything is working correctly and if its Startup Type is set to Automatic, the Print Spooler service should start automatically with your Windows 10.

After removing the pending documents and checking the status of the Print Spooler service, try to print your documents again.

5. Disable Bidirectional support for your printer

  1. Press Windows Key + S and enter printers. Choose Printers & scanners from the menu.
  2. When the window opens, locate your printer, click on it and choose Manage from the menu.
  3. From the left, click on Printer properties.
  4. Go to the Ports tab and at the bottom of the window you’ll see Enable bidirectional support option. Uncheck it and click Apply and OK.

If you have a local network in your home or in your office, you’re probably sharing a printer with other users.

This is usually the most convenient way to print documents because it allows users to print documents from their PC remotely.

Although the printer-sharing feature is convenient, certain issues with it can appear. If printing gets stuck on spooling while using a shared printer, you might want to check the printer’s properties and disable Bidirectional support.

After disabling the Bidirectional support, check if the problem is resolved.

6. Disable your antivirus/firewall

Security software is important, but sometimes these tools can interfere with your printer and cause printing to get stuck on spooling.

To fix this problem you need to temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall software.

Keep in mind that Windows 10 comes with Windows Defender which works as a default antivirus, so even if you disable your third-party antivirus software your PC won’t be completely defenseless.

After disabling your antivirus or firewall, check if the problem is resolved.

Tip icon Editor’s tip
Many users are affected by the PrintNightmare vulnerability. If you’re one of them, read our guide on how to download the KB5004945 patch and fix the problem.

7. Try using a different Windows account

Sometimes printing can get stuck on spooling due to problems with your Windows account.

To see if your account is the problem, we advise that you switch to a different Windows account and check if printing works on that account.

If that fixes the problem, you need to check if your account has the necessary permissions to print.

8. Perform an SFC scan

  1. Start Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. When Command Prompt starts, enter sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait until the scanning process is completed.
  4. After the scanning process finishes, check if the problem is resolved.

Your files and your Windows installation can sometimes get corrupted, and that can cause issues with printing. If you have problems with printing stuck on spooling, you might be able to fix them simply by performing an SFC scan.

SFC scan will scan your PC for any corrupted files and try to fix them. To perform an SFC scan on your PC, you need to do the above.

9. Disable Allow the service to interact with desktop option

  1. Open the Services window, locate the Print Spooler service, and double-click it.
  2. When the Print Spooler Properties window opens, go to Log On tab.
  3. Locate Allow the service to interact with the desktop option and make sure that it’s disabled.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-allow-1
  4. Click Apply and OK.

A few users reported that the problem with printing stuck on spooling can be resolved simply by disabling Allow the service to interact with the desktop option.

After disabling this option, check if the printing issues are resolved.

10. Disable printer status notification

  1. Open the Printers & scanners section. For more information on how to do that be sure to check Solution 5.
  2. When the Printers & scanners window opens, select your printer and choose Manage.
  3. Now click on Printer properties from the left.
  4. Go to the Advanced tab and uncheck Show informational notifications for local printers and Show informational notifications for network printers.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-print-server-2
  5. After that, select Apply and OK to save the changes.

11. Print PDF files as images

Users reported that printing gets stuck on spooling on their PC whenever they try to print a PDF file. Thus, cases in which documents cannot be printed from Adobe Acrobat are quite common.

Apparently, this issue affects only low-end and personal printers, and if you’re having this problem, we advise you to try to print your PDF documents as images.

To do that, simply try to print a PDF document and look for Print as image option. Sometimes this option can be hidden in the advanced settings section, so you’ll have to look for it.

After choosing this option simply click the Print button and your document will be printed without any problems.

12. Try to print PDF files from Adobe Acrobat

According to users, this issue can occur if you try to print a PDF document from Chrome.

Apparently, there’s an issue with the built-in PDF viewer in Chrome, and in order to circumvent this issue, you need to download the PDF file first and try to print it from Adobe Acrobat or any other PDF viewer.

This is just a workaround, but it works according to users, so be sure to try it out. It seems that this is an issue related to Google Chrome, and until Google addresses this issue you’ll have to rely on this workaround.

13. Restart Chrome

As we already mentioned in our previous solution, sometimes the printing process can get stuck on spooling if you try to print a PDF document from Chrome.

In addition to downloading the PDF file and printing it from PDF viewer software, you can simply fix this problem by restarting your browser.

Users reported that after restarting Chrome the issue with printing was completely resolved, so be sure to try it out if you can’t print from Chrome.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a permanent solution, so you’ll have to repeat it every time this issue occurs.

14. Modify your registry

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter regedit. Press Enter or click OK.windows run window
  2. When Registry Editor opens, navigate to the following key in the left pane: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\ControlPrintMonitors
  3. Expand the Monitors key and locate your printer. Right-click it and choose Delete from the menu.
    printing-stuck-on-spooling-regedit-2
  4. After deleting your printer key from the registry, close Registry Editor.

Printing can get stuck on spooling if you’re sharing your printer on a local network, but you should be able to fix it simply by deleting one value from your registry.

Keep in mind that you need to modify the registry on the PC that has the printer connected to it. We have to warn you that modifying your registry can lead to certain issues if you don’t do it properly, so use extra caution.

In order to prevent damage, it’s advised that you create a backup of your registry and use it in case anything goes wrong. To modify your registry, perform the previous steps.

If you encounter any problems on your PC after removing this key from your registry, be sure to restore your registry by using its backup file.

Editing your Registry is essential to fix some tasks. We’ve got a guide that will teach you what to do if you can’t edit the Registry.

Printing stuck on spooling can prevent you from printing documents on your PC, but we hope that you managed to fix this issue by using one of our solutions.

If you have any additional suggestions or questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to check them out.

Enterprise Backup Software: Top 6 Picks in 2026

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Your company’s data is so vital to your business operations and management that it just has to be backed up regularly.

However, making the best choice for your business is not an obvious task. Your needs will definitely determine most of the features you are looking for and ultimately which backup software you’ll settle on.

You may also be wondering why to get enterprise backup software in the first place since today’s storage comes with backup capability.

What should I look for in an enterprise backup tool?

Besides backup, the question is what more the tool can do for you. Besides data protection, you will also benefit from replication and recovery, scheduled backups, and cloud functionality.

Further considerations you need to keep in mind when choosing the best enterprise software include training, customer support, plus the kind of environments and apps supported by the top backup software Suite.

What’s the best enterprise backup software?

RecoveryManager Plus – Best enterprise backup and recovery tool

If you’re looking for a unified backup solution for all the enterprise data, look no further than RecoveryManager Plus because it will save you a lot of time and effort.

For instance, it offers incremental backups. That means it will only backup the changes made to your Active Directory, Exchange Servers, and Office365 environments since the last cycle.

Plus, with this solution, it’s possible to export entire Exchange mailboxes (local or online) or just a part of them to PST format for secure archival.

There is no need to invest in huge storage spaces because you can define a retention period for your backups, and automatically delete the ones that exceeded it.

Additionally, the backups will be compressed to a fourth of their original size, securing them at the same time with powerful AES-256 bit encryption.

It’s very easy to back up all files in your SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business accounts so that you can restore them in case of disasters or ransomware attacks.

Of course, you don’t need to do that manually because the action can be scheduled at specific times and dates of your choosing.

There is a free trial available, enough to test if the solution is up to the expectations of your business needs.

Take a look at RecoveryManager Plus’ key features:

  • Extreme backup compression and AES-256 bit encryption
  • Backup for entire or partial Exchange mailboxes
  • Online cloud backup
  • Automatic backup scheduling
  • Total and incremental backups
RecoveryManager Plus

RecoveryManager Plus

Backup and recover all your data at any time with this tool that offers compression and AES-256-bit encryption.
Free trial Visit website

Acronis Cyber Backup – Great backup and protection tool

Protect your company’s future by securing all workloads. Acronis Cyber Backup provides the cyber protection that today’s companies require to avoid costly downtime, angry customers, and lost income by combining backup and anti-ransomware technologies.

It safeguards any workload, scales without limitations, and saves you money by supporting over 20 platforms.

Reduce the possibility of data loss by backing up as frequently as you choose without affecting system performance or productivity.

Reduce costly downtime by running your backup as a virtual machine to get your system up and running in seconds.

Maintain a minimum level of investment while balancing data value, recovery times, protection costs, and resource efficiency with Acronis Cyber Backup.

Let’s go through Acronis Cyber Backup key features:

  • Protects data in physical, virtual, cloud, and mobile environments on 20+ platforms
  • The backup industry’s first AI-powered anti-ransomware security is included.
  • Cloud-to-cloud backup of Microsoft 365 data
  • With the capacity to conduct frequent backups, you may improve your recovery point objectives (RPO).
  • 24/7 technical support from the customer care team
  • High-performance deduplication solutions that lead to better storage usage and internet management
Acronis Cyber Backup

Acronis Cyber Backup

Keep all of your data safe, no matter what technology you use or how much data you create!
Free trialVisit website

Paragon Hard Disk Manager – Best simple enterprise backup

For easy backup and flexible restoration of your data, Paragon is the best enterprise backup software for the job.

Enjoy worry-free data and system backup, solid time-tested enterprise-class technologies, backup strategies for customized backup automation, flexible system recovery, and free online support.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Full range backup and recovery solutions
  • Reliable file and systems recovery
  • Restoration of operating systems
  • Set and run technology with quick and advanced backups (without the need for deep IT skills or advanced computing knowledge to protect your data and system)

Aomei Backupper – Complete system backup tool

This is one of the best enterprise backup software solutions for any size of the business, which keeps systems protected and ensures business continuity.

You can go for Aomei Backupper Professional to backup, sync, restore and clone data on desktop and laptop computers, plus use in a backup system, hard disk, files, and partition.

There is also the Aomei Backupper Server with which you can backup data files stored in Windows Server (2003-2011), protect the system, and sync files.

Finally, the Aomei Backupper Technician provides an easy-to-use backup and disaster recovery toolkit for unlimited computers in one enterprise.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • System/disk/file/folder and partition backup and restore
  • Scheduled/incremental or differential backups
  • Disk and system clone for upgrade and migration
  • Support for the latest technologies such as cloud drive, hardware RAID, dynamic disk, and others
  • Creation of Windows PE and universal restore for transferring of systems
  • Added image deploy tool and added real-time file sync

NovaBACKUP – Disaster recovery included

This brand touts itself as the backup software expert who makes it easy for you to protect critical data that is at the heart of your company, so you don’t have to worry about backup.

It comes with unmatched support, and award-winning backup tools, making it one of the best enterprise backup software in the market.

With NovaBACKUP, you get the advantage of live and local support from experts ready to help you select the right fit for your business, reliable, scalable, and easily configurable solutions, plus budget-friendly pricing.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • PC/Server and Virtual machine backups
  • Full/incremental and differential backups
  • Disaster recovery backups, VM replication
  • Single file or system restore
  • Local or online backup to file sharing sites
  • Free installation and setup assistance

Veeam – Best virtualized app backup

Veeam Backup and Replication is ranked as the best enterprise backup software with its award-winning platform for backup, recovery, and replication of virtualized apps, and data.

With Veeam, you can backup, recover, and restore your data in minutes. If you want high-speed recovery, data loss avoidance, verified recoverability, complete visibility, and a robust backup solution, Veeam is your best bet.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Lightning-fast and reliable restoration
  • SureBackup tool for verifying the recoverability of your data
  • Instant VM Recovery to recover files effortlessly and quickly
  • Advanced, image-based replication of your data while streamlining availability and recovery
  • Fully integrated, fast, and secure cloud-based Veeam Cloud Connect option

⇒ Get Veeam

This concludes our list of the best enterprise backup software for top data protection.

While on the subject, take a look at our list including the best backup software for Windows 11 because you might also find some options.

Which of these enterprise backup software tools fits your company’s needs? Let us know in the comments section below!

How to Auto Logoff After Inactivity on Windows 10

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

When you use an electronic gadget, especially a laptop, you should ensure that you have the best privacy settings applied. Apart from manually locking your PC, did you know that you can perform auto logoff after inactivity on your Windows 10 PC?

You can use the Dynamic Lock feature in Windows 10 to automatically lock your computer when you leave the room. Alternatively, here, in this guide, we will give you a comprehensive explanation of how you can set up your Windows 10 PC to auto logoff after inactivity.

How can I set auto logoff after inactivity on my Windows 10 PC?

1. Use SecPol

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type secpol.msc and press Enter.
  3. Expand Local Policies.
  4. Select Security Options.
  5. Double-click Interactive Logon: Machine inactivity limit option.
  6. Enter the amount of time after which you would like your PC to logoff. In our case, it is 600 seconds, i.e., 10 minutes.
    • Do note that you can type an inactivity limit between 1 to 599940 seconds.
  7. Sign out of your account.
  8. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

2. Use Registry Editor

  1. Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the below path and press Enter. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
  4. Right-click on the right-side and select New.
  5. Click on DWORD 32-bit Value.
  6. Rename the value as InactivityTimeoutSecs.
  7. Under the Value filed, type 600, which equals 10 minutes.
  8. Click OK.
  9. Close Registry Editor.
  10. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

3. Create GPO to set automatic logout after inactivity/idle

  1. Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type gpmc.msc and press Enter to open Group Policy Management.
  3. Expand Forest: XXX.LOCAL.
  4. Double-click Domains.
  5. Expand XXX.LOCAL.
  6. Right-click Client and select Create a GPO in this domain, and Link it here option.
  7. Enter the name for the new GPO, example, MY-GPO.
  8. Right-click on MY-GPO and select Edit.
  9. In the Group Policy Editor screen, navigate to the below path. User Configuration > Policies > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Session Time Limits
  10. On the right-side open the Set time limit for active but IDLE Remote desktop service sessions item.
  11. Select Enable.
  12. Under Idle session limit, select the desired time limit.
  13. Click OK.
  14. Open End session when time limits are reached item and enable it.
  15. Click OK.
  16. Close Group Policy Editor.
  17. The system will show a warning message 2 minutes before logging off your PC.

In case group policy management isn’t available on your PC, then you can check out our guide that lists two methods that will help you install group policy management on your PC.

4. Use a dedicated software

  1. Download Windows Shutdown Assistant.
  2. Install it on your PC.
  3. Launch the program.
  4. Select the System idle for option and set the time limit. In our case, set 10 minutes.
  5. Click the Start button.

If you do not want to go through the hassle of creating a GPO to logoff your PC after a certain time, you can make use of a dedicated tool called Apowersoft Windows Shutdown Assistant.

This tool not only helps you accomplish the task of Windows 10 auto logoff after inactivity, but you can also perform other tasks such as turning off the computer automatically in various situations, locking, restarting, hibernating, and logging off the computer at a specific time, and much more.

We also have a guide that lists 3 methods to auto login on Windows 11. This could be useful when you want to access your PC easily and quickly.

For Windows 10 users, our guide on how to schedule automatic shutdown will help program your PC to shut down at a specific time.

That is it from us in this guide. Let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions you applied for Windows 10 auto logoff after inactivity.

5 Best Network Backup Software [Windows 10/11 & Mac]

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Worried about the safety of your data? This is where network backup software steps in on its own, as it allows you to easily manage and automate backing-up tasks.

You’re supposed to let everything run and save in the background while you’re on the go or completing other tasks on both Windows 10 & Mac PCs.

How can network backup software help you?

Below, we have outlined the best network backup software that will use your Internet connection to secure your data on the cloud or other network-related storage solutions.

However, our software recommendations also cover the following criteria and functions:

  • Free network backup software – Even if it doesn’t offer a choice of wizards, Cobian Backup is a reliable free network backup software tool.
  • Home network backup software – Your searches aren’t always about which backup system is best. If ease of use is what matters too, our above picks won’t let you down.
  • Network PLC backup software – Backing up PLC programs isn’t a challenge when having the right tools. Take a peek above and become a master at replicating and backing up PLC programs into a single computer network.
  • Backup software that works with network drive – Most of the tools below will help you easily back up all the network drive shared files.
  • PC local software to back up the home network – The best PC backup software for the home network should be capable and flexible. Vembu, Acronis, and others provide such backup solutions that are adequate for the average user.

That’s why we have handpicked the best network backup software for both small offices and large corporations. Ready to discover them all?

What’s the best home & local network backup software to use?

Acronis Cyber Backup – Great for Windows endpoints

You clearly haven’t tried out Acronis Cyber Backup if you still think that there’s no foolproof network backup software.

Acronis Cyber Backup adheres to the principle of zero downtime with efficient recovery tools that work impeccably all the time.

Most of all, it is very easy to operate, and you can back up data to the storage location (NAS, SAN, Acronis Cloud, or any private or public cloud) by following just a few simple steps.

Rest assured that you can easily recover specific Microsoft application data or even complete systems with ease, all from a single backup.

You can also get this software on a 30-day free trial since it is known as a solution for confident users who never settle for less than what they truly deserve.

Here are some Acronis Cyber Backup key features that you’re about to enjoy:

  • Manages both small and large Windows server environments
  • Fast and reliable backup tools
  • Intuitive recovery features
  • Highly customizable
  • Shadow Copy technology

Handy Backup – Modern backup capabilities

Handy Backup is in the backup field for a long time. You need to know from the start that we’re talking about a flexible solution for people looking for power and reliability.

This server backup software controls the entire network backup over the one console that functions with no interruption.

Even more, you can even set up other programs to run before or after a particular backup server task, turning Handy Backup into an active part of integrated data workflow.

No less important, what truly makes Handy Backup to stand out is its continuous focus on customer satisfaction, by offering free, yet reliable tech support.

Here are some Handy Backup key features that you’re about to enjoy:

  • Scalable backup software
  • Intuitive New Task Wizard
  • Modern backup capabilities
  • Stores backups both locally and on remote servers
  • Quick Restoration of all data

Aomei Server Backuper – Flexible data recovery

Aomei Server Backuper is another network backup software tool that meets users’ expectations in terms of safeguarding their operating systems.

As you can imagine, it is embedded with backup, restore, and cloning features, giving you the flexibility you need.

It can be easily used to create and schedule backup procedures, not to mention all those cloning tools that are useful in upgrading hard drives or migrating operating systems.

Here are some Aomei Server Backuper key features that you’re about to enjoy:

  • Flexible data recovery features
  • Scheme feature to delete old backups
  • Multiple backup storage choices
  • 24/7 free technical support
  • 30M+ happy users

NAKIVO Backup & Replication – Great for SaaS environments

NAKIVO Backup & Replication can be easily operated, yet it doesn’t mean that it falls short in terms of network backup tools.

After all, it has gained popularity thanks to its wide range of features dedicated to protecting and backing up your virtual, physical, cloud, and SaaS environments.

The company prides itself on its customer support department. With helpful technical support engineers that can be easily contacted right from the product’s web interface, you’re never alone in times of need.

Even better, you’ve got the chance to choose from multiple pricing options that include per-socket perpetual, per-workload subscription, as well as SaaS subscription.

Here are some NAKIVO Backup & Replication key features that you’re about to enjoy:

  • Minimal backup size
  • Built-in disaster recovery solution
  • Multiple backup options, including cloud platforms
  • Impeccable data protection
  • Outstanding customer support reviews

⇒ Get NAKIVO Backup & Replication now

Cobian Backup – Good backup flexibility

The primary feature of this network backup software is the backup flexibility that it offers. Users worldwide schedule multiple backup procedures with Cobian Backup.

Moreover, files can be archived on another local hard drive, network location, or even FTP servers. Therefore, we’d say that it’s designed for both small business and home use.

One of the major downsides of using Cobian Backup is the fact that it lacks an intuitive wizard to automate the process. Decrypting/decompressing files can turn into a challenge if you lack certain skills.

Otherwise, most things are relatively straightforward and even encryption is easily applied.

Here are some Cobian Backup key features that you’re about to enjoy:

  • User-friendly UI
  • Support for multiple backup jobs
  • Remote control option
  • Different security settings
  • Optional encryption

⇒ Get Cobian Backup now

It is fairly annoying if you don’t know where to look for extra help when needing the best network backup software solutions.

You might also be interested in our list of the best bootable backup software for Windows.

Which of the above solutions is your final pick for today? Let us know by using the comments area below.

How to Fix the OverDrive Error in Obtaining License Issue

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

OverDrive is an extensive digital book distribution platform for libraries and schools worldwide. However, some of our readers can’t use the app because of an OverDrive error obtaining license issue.

The error message for that issue states: Unable to acquire license to play selected title. The requested license is either invalid or already acquired.

What causes OverDrive’s error obtaining license issue?

The quoted error above highlights an audiobook’s temporary ODM license file has expired. ODM files for audiobooks that aren’t opened with the OverDrive app within a few hours of downloading can become invalid.

The issue can arise because of an inaccurate system clock. If your PC’s system time isn’t entirely right, that’s probably what needs fixing. So, checking your PC’s system time settings in Windows 10 can resolve the issue.

How can I fix Overdrive’s error in obtaining license issue?

1. Correct Windows 10’s date and time settings

  1. Right-click Windows 10’s system tray clock and select Adjust date/time.
  2. Toggle the Set time automatically option On if it’s Off.
  3. Now, also turn On the Set time zone automatically button.
  4. If your PC’s time and date still don’t seem entirely right for your location, you can manually adjust the clock by clicking the Change button. Both the automatic options need to be disabled to click that button.
  5. Enter a time and date within the Change date and time window that opens and press the Change button.

If your PC defaults to a wrong time after restarting Windows 10, it might have a bad CMOS battery. You’ll need to replace the PC’s CMOS battery with a new one.

2. Clear temporary internet files

Google Chrome

  1. Press the Ctrl + Shift + Del hotkey in Chrome to open the Clear browsing data window.
  2. Select the All time option.
  3. Next, select the checkbox options for cookies, cached, and browsing history.
  4. Press the Clear data button to clear the temporary internet files.

Firefox

  1. Press the Ctrl, Shift, and Delete keys at the same in Firefox to bring up the Clear Recent History window.
  2. Select the Everything option in the Time range to clear drop-down menu.
  3. Then click all the history and data checkboxes to select them. 
  4. Press the OK button to erase the data.

Microsoft Edge

  1. In Edge, press the Ctrl + Shift + Del keyboard shortcut.
  2. Click the Time range drop-down menu to select All time.
  3. Then select all the data checkboxes on the Clear browsing data window.
  4. Press the Clear now button.

Alternatively, you can also thoroughly erase temporary internet files with third-party disk cleanup utilities like CCleaner.

⇒ Get CCleaner

3. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter

  1. To open the Settings app, hold the Windows key and press I at the same time.
  2. Select Update & Security and then Troubleshoot.
  3. Click Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Now select Windows Store Apps in the troubleshooter list.
  5. Press the Run this troubleshooter button to open the troubleshooter.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to fix any issues with Microsoft Store apps.

4. Reset the Microsoft Store cache

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd, and select Run as administrator from the results.
  2. Then type in this command and press Enter: wsreset.exe
    wsreset.exe command overdrive error obtaining license
  3. The Microsoft Store’s cache will reset.

You can contact library support about the OverDrive error obtaining license issue via the Contact support page on OverDrive Help. Enter your library’s name in the search box there. Then click the Get support button for a library to fill out and submit a tech support form.

There’s also a general OverDrive support service you can contact. To do so, click the Submit a support ticket button on OverDrive’s support page. Then you can fill out the question boxes to send a ticket.

There aren’t many confirmed fixes for OverDrive’s error obtaining license issue. However, the potential resolutions above might fix it. Try applying all the above resolutions and then downloading the audiobook that triggered the error.

If you have any other questions or suggestions, you may leave them in the comments section below.

5 Best Backup Software for Exchange Server

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Many people use Microsoft Exchange Server, and to make sure that your server keeps running, it’s important to back up your data.

In today’s article we’re going to show you the best backup software for Exchange Server, so let’s get started, shall we?

Why do I need backup software for Microsoft Exchange?

Microsoft Exchange Server machines work with extremely sensitive data and it’s imperative to back up that information.

Any server catastrophic crashes can cause significant data loss which may lead to litigation and other types of damages.

Therefore, not only do you need backup tools to keep the data secure but we also recommend using the best antivirus solutions for Microsoft Exchange Server.

What is the best backup software for Exchange Server?

Acronis Cyber Backup – Professional level backup

Acronis Cyber Backup offers full disk image backups, and it allows you to store your backups on local/external disks, network storage, and the cloud.

The software also brings clustered Exchange support, so you can easily back up Exchange DAG clusters from passive nodes, or you can choose specific or active nodes for the backup process.

There’s also support for Acronis Cloud storage, allowing you to upload your data to one of the 14+ Acronis Cloud Data Centers.

AES-256 encryption is available, making sure that your backups are safe from third parties and unauthorized access.

Acronis Cyber Backup offers an abundance of additional features, and if you want professional backup software with Exchange Server support, be sure to try Acronis Cyber Backup.

Acronis Cyber Backup features:

  • Can create data and system images with ease
  • Support for Exchange DAG cluster
  • Complete Exchange backup
  • Centralized web management console
  • Advanced reporting system

Handy Backup – Simple automatic backup

Handy Backup backup for Exchange

Another great backup software that deserves a mention is Handy Backup. The software offers support for Microsoft Exchange thanks to the MS Exchange plug-in.

The software can create Exchange backups without interfering with other applications. Support for automatization is also available, allowing users to completely automate the backup process.

Handy Backup can also run missed tasks, or call for other programs before or after the backup. Of course, all your backups will be encrypted and compressed so that they take up less space.

Regarding the backups, you can keep them on the local or external hard drive, send them via FTP, or store them on NAS or cloud storage.

Handy Backup offers great features when it comes to Exchange backup, and since it’s a pretty versatile tool, you should definitely try it out.

Handy Backup features:

  • Support for Exchange 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, and older using a special plug-in
  • Ability to start other applications before or after a backup
  • Hot backup feature that will perform backups without interfering with your system
  • Encryption and compression
  • Advanced reports and email notifications

Stellar Exchange Backup & Recovery – Easy to use

If you’re looking for backup software for Exchange Server, you should definitely consider Stellar Exchange Backup & Recovery.

The software is automated, and it allows you to back up storage groups and mailbox stores and save your precious data. After the backup is done, you can easily restore single or multiple mailbox stores.

Stellar Exchange Backup & Recovery lets you restore your backup files manually from the backup image which will surely come in handy. If needed, you can also automate and schedule your backups.

Regarding backups, there’s support for full and incremental backups and you can also view detailed log reports and email notifications.

Stellar Exchange Backup & Recovery is powerful backup software, and if you’re using Exchange Server, you should definitely try it out.

Stellar Exchange Backup & Recovery features:

  • Ability to back up storage groups and mailbox stores
  • Can restore single or multiple mailbox stores
  • Ability to automate and schedule backups
  • Support for full and incremental backups
  • Detailed logs and email notifications

⇒ Get Stellar Exchange Backup & Repair

CodeTwo Backup for Exchange – Great customization options

If you’re looking to back up data from the Exchange server, you might want to try CodeTwo Backup for Exchange. The software can easily manage your Exchange mailbox, public folders, and SharePoint backups.

CodeTwo Backup for Exchange offers continuous incremental backups after a full backup is completed, so each new backup process will be faster than the previous one.

Support for filtering is available, and you can easily choose which mailboxes or folders you want to back up based on several filters.

Speaking of customization, you can customize your backup settings and easily create one-time or continuous backups with ease.

CodeTwo Backup for Exchange offers solid features, and with its easy to use interface and zero-configuration setup, it’s a great tool for less experienced users.

CodeTwo Backup for Exchange features:

  • Simple and friendly user interface
  • Continuous incremental backup
  • Advanced filtering
  • Central management console
  • Can back up all types of mailbox folders

⇒ Get CodeTwo Backup for Exchange

BackupAssist – Full server recovery

BackupAssist is another great backup software that also supports Exchange Server. The application lets you perform full server backups, Active Directory, Hyper-V, Exchange Server, and SQL Server backups.

Regarding backup destinations, you can back up your data to external storage, NAS, cloud storage, and RDX. As for recovery, granular recovery is available, so you can recover individual files or emails.

If you want better support for Exchange, there’s Exchange Granular add-on available that will help you restore individual emails or attachments with ease.

The application also offers full server recovery as well as built-in encryption so your sensitive data will remain completely protected.

BackupAssist is a professional server backup software, therefore it’s a perfect choice for professionals that are using the Exchange Server.

BackupAssist features:

  • Full server backup
  • Works with Active Directory, Hyper-V, Exchange Server, SQL Server
  • File-based backups with version history
  • Can store backups on external drives, NAS, cloud, and RDX
  • Full server recovery

⇒ Get BackupAssist

Backing up Exchange Server doesn’t have to a tedious or daunting task, as long as you’re using the proper tools for the job, and we hope that you found suitable software for your needs in this article.

You might also be interested in the best software for server backup and getting more suggestions.

Did we miss your favorite Exchange Backup software? Let us know in the comments below.

Best OBS Settings for Low-End PC [Recording, Streaming]

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

OBS Studio is a software developer of free open-source software. Their product is for those with a passion for video recording and live streaming.

Some of them want to know what are the OBS settings for recording on a low-end PC. Here’s what one user says:

I have a PC with very low specs. I want to record and not to stream my game. I request anyone to tell me the settings that can give me a lag-free gaming and recording experience.

If you have in mind the same thing, don’t hesitate to follow our quick solutions to use the best OBS settings for recording on a low-end PC. Read carefully our next section to check them out.

Is OBS CPU heavy?

OBS can potentially hog up a lot of processing power and this is something to take into consideration especially when running on a low-end PC.

You can tweak the software’s settings to use less CPU, but the quality will be impacted both for streaming and recording tasks. For instance, FPS loss is a direct consequence of OBS’ CPU consumption rates.

And speaking about that, you must be also wondering what is the best FPS for OBS.

We know that 60 frames is the desirable preset for quality videos. However, we mustn’t forget that we are aiming to find the very best OBS settings for a low-end PC, hence system specs should prevail.

60 FPS will not only take up more storage but also demand a higher bitrate, which could potentially lead to buffering issues, lagging, and stuttering.

Instead, a 30 FPS preset will provide more stability, which will secure a more committed audience.

What are the best OBS settings for low-end PCs?

1. Configure computer and OBS settings

  1. Turn all video settings from your game to their lowest.
  2. Reduce Canvas resolution for OBS to 16:9 720p (1280×720) or 480p (854×480).
  3. Use the Bicubic downscale filter. OBS settings
  4. Verify the OBS FPS and reduce them to 24 or 30. (Is 30 FSP good for OBS? In this case, yes, it will be more stable than 60 or higher).
  5. Verify OBS Audio and set the sampling rate to the lowest at 44.1kHz.
  6. If you’re wondering what is the best bitrate for OBS for low-end PC, know that you can set them as low as 64 KBpS.

When you have set the game video settings to the lowest, this will decrease the quality of game graphics. Even so, your computer will perform better because this step reduces the load from the CPU and GPU.

After setting the OBS Audio and ensuring its sampling rate is at the lowest, that will save you some bits. Also, resume strictly playing the game, and avoid running other applications or services.

2. Use Quick Sync Video for your encoder

2.1. Activate Quick Sync

  1. Open OBS, navigate to Settings, and visit the Encoder section.OBS encoder
  2. Select Quick Sync Video. 

When trying to find the best OBS settings for recording on a low-end PC, note that your encoder is very important as it uses certain hardware and encodes your video file.

Quick Sync Video is designed to use the Intel IGPU for encoding. This leaves the processor, graphics card, and hard disk drive free for gaming or software.

Thus, the Intel graphics chip will handle the entire encoding process while you can use the AMD or NVIDIA GPU at its full capacity.

2.2. What to do if you can’t select Quick Sync

  1. Navigate to BIOS and activate the integrated Graphics Chip.Enable Graphics Chip in BIOS
  2. Open your web browser and visit Intel Download Center. 
  3. Choose and download Intel Graphics Drivers for your processor.Download drivers from Intel's website
  4. Run the driver installation process.
  5. Restart the computer after installation has finished.
  6. Open the OBS application and navigate to Settings.
  7. Visit Encoder and select Quick Sync.

The possibility to activate the Quick Sync encoder depends on the manufacturer of your computer’s motherboard. We recommend you verify the mainboard manual in this regard.

This applies even to those who are looking for the best OBS stream settings for a bad, old computer that’s far from its days of glory.

In BIOS, please search for one of the following options and enable it:

  • IGPU Multi-Monitor
  • Internal Graphics
  • IGD Multi-Monitor

If you are unable to find such an option, then your computer’s mainboard might not support Quick Sync. We also advise you to contact the mainboard manufacturer and ask them for more information.

If you have managed to activate the option in BIOS, download the latest drivers available from Intel’s Download Center. Regardless if you use OBS Classic or Studio version, both of them are useful.

The encoding options remain the same for each of the variants. If you want to stream, use constant bitrate. For local recording, use the variable bitrate and increase the bandwidth.

When navigating through the advanced settings in OBS, you can change the encoding preset from x264 to Quick Sync. Lowering the preset is useful if you encounter problems during encoding. 

Can I use OBS with 2GB RAM?

There is no official prohibition to doing so. According to OBS system specifications, it is recommended – not be mistaken for mandatory – to use a PC with 4GB of memory space and have DirectX enabled (version 10 onwards).

The previous section has detailed the best OBS settings for low-end PCs. Use our first solution to configure your computer, and then your OBS software.

The second solution we recommend is to use the Quick Sync feature. Read carefully that specific section and check out both possible cases. First, use the steps presented to activate Quick Fix.

If you don’t have it, make sure it is installed, and if not, then follow the steps written above the current section. Try out our tested solutions and implement OBS settings for recording on a low-end PC.

Now that you learned the steps to get the ideal settings for your computer check out this guide to learn steps to enable hotkeys in OBS Studio to increase productivity while using the software.

Do not hesitate to write a comment and give us details about your experience with OBS.

Caricature Software to Turn Photos into Cartoons [2026 Guide]

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

The world smiled more when cartoons came into being. No one could resist (and nobody still does) the intense funny-looking characters displayed all over our screens and papers.

Probably because they appear like creations of a different world from ours. In reality, photo cartoonizer software tools for Windows 10 are responsible for the fascination.

This has inspired the springing up of certain tools. They enable one to turn their photos into their desired animations.

A variety of features available in the following cartoonizer software make it possible for fun manipulation of images. All from the comfort of a personal computer.

What are the best photo cartoonizer tools for Windows 10?

Adobe Creative Cloud – Comprehensive cartoon tools

Turning your awesome pictures into cartoons and putting them into motion in just a few steps is easy with Adobe Cloud plan.

This solution contains all the Adobe’s most popular apps such as Photoshop, Illustrator, or Premiere Pro so you can create engaging high-quality animations.

You can use any app to craft your animated projects, and then use vector drawings to tell your own story by adding impressive effects, backgrounds, or movement.

That being said, its intuitive interface and all the above-mentioned features make this tool a great pick for getting started with 2D animation.

Best-in-class drawing tools here included:

  • Stock images and texts
  • Tutorial for learning the basics
  • Rich libraries with logos, layouts, and designs
  • Effective collaboration tools

Adobe Creative Cloud

Open up a new age of animation using this Adobe editing toolset.
Check price Visit website

Fotor – Fun online cartoons

Fotor is an ideal tool for creating various cartoon designs and customizing them according to your vision.

Among other solutions, this free platform offers you complete freedom to create your product impactfully and fun.

You can pick from thousands of design templates and use editing tools such as background remover, crop and resize, or photo to sketch.

There are also high-end AI tools to enhance your designs and deliver gorgeous artwork in seconds.

Lastly, we kindly suggest this solution to craft imaginative cartoons or drawings that will inspire people of all ages.

Best-in-class drawing tools here included:

  • Tuning drawing tools
  • Photo to sketch benefit
  • Diverse AI features
  • Numerous cartoon layouts

Fotor

Transform any design into cartoons in one click using this free application.
Check price Visit website

Photo Cartoon – Various image files

If you are looking for a simple photo editing software that can help you turn basically any image into a cartoon, then chances are to appreciate Photo Cartoon.

This service requires no editing skills – in order to cartoon your photograph, just upload it, hit Cartoonize, and choose the desired effect. Yes, that’s how easy it is to achieve your goal.

The Cartoon Effect isn’t the only interesting one. You can go bold with the Pencil Draw Effect as well or trick your friends into considering you a new Picasso with the Painting Effect.

In mere seconds you’ll have the photo that you had in mind, ready to be shared on Facebook and other social networks.

After all, you must quickly abandon the idea of keeping it for yourself. Where’s the fun in that?

Here’s what great key features Photo Cartoon brings to the table:

  • Turning photos into cartoons is easy and intuitive, even for newbies
  • The software supports a wide range of image files
  • Countless effects to choose from
  • It’s compatible with Windows 10. 8, 7, and Android
  • Free trial if you’re undecided

Photo Cartoon

Applying cartoon effects to pictures turns into a fun process when using Photo Cartoon. Ready to try it out?
Free trial Visit website

Cartoon.Pho.to. – Face expression switch

Caricature Software to Turn Photos into Cartoons

Cartoon.Pho.to. has recently set a new scale in the photo-to-cartoon transformation segment. Reinforced cartoon graphics enable the display of real emotions on a cartoonized face.

This happens through adjustable features. Users get an interesting variety of face changes to choose from, on uploading their photo/image to the service. Here, the fun begins.

One can create a happy expression from the saddest of faces. Filters and modifications are applicable to all types of photos except face morphing which only applies to portraits.

Main features you are about to enjoy:

  • Changing face expression – Cheeks, lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are altered to move in a matter of seconds to reveal a look. For instance, the motion of widening lips may signify a smile
  • Display of emotions – A choice of effects exists to give a cartoonish image a mourning or excited face
  • The caricature effect – Want to turn your photo into a troll? Perhaps an alien or a tough guy. Here’s the feature for it

⇒ Download Cartoon.Pho.to.

The BeFunky Cartoonizer – High-quality images

An avenue for excellence – this is what first comes to mind when using the BeFunky Cartoonizer. Launched in 2007, the tool has been in service to its clients for 11 years.

Over the years, the software’s developers have worked with creativity to up its standards from the mere manual editor it was to the fast and popular cartoonizer it is today.

A manufacturer of beautiful and professional quality images. The software developers have not availed the full application for download. However, users can access it online.

Check out some of its great features below:

  • Five classic cartoonizer kits in the artsy section of the photo editor. Either of these will cartoon a photo/image of any category
  • The Deluxe Edition Digital Art part houses a widely reformed cartoonizer DLX for an even more enhanced appearance
  • It’s no surprise that users find themselves attached to their screens for hours – flairs like hats, jewelry, beards, etc. make good virtual toys; smart enhancements that fix digital noises, poor lighting, and fuzziness with just a click are even more engaging
  • Perhaps the most interesting thing about the BeFunky Cartoonizer is its ability to transform pictures into Warhol-esque art; this is an image that appears like it was taken off one of your top-of-the-shelf novels

⇒ Download BeFunky Cartoonizer

Cartoon Generator – Free and simple usage

get Cartoon Generator

The configuration options for this photo cartoonizer software for Windows 10 are top-notch. Convert your favorite artist’s picture with this tool and you might just have their next album’s cover photo.

The well-explained software allows users to engage the tool easily. The straightforward guidelines and controls are a plus too.

For all one knows, the cartoon generator may just be the most diverse cartoonizer. Users can convert photos with BMP, GIF, PNG, JPG, TIFF, and other formats.

Main features included in the package:

  • A range of settings that set in order the appearance of a photo. Some of them include Brush Width, Sketch Depth, Darkness, Dot Sensitivity, Color Sketch, Blur/ Sharpen, etc.
  • The interphase under the settings menu contains adjustable sliders. These apply cartoon effects to images
  • On the left panel, one can apply their desired range of effects including Pencil Sketch, Sketch, Sketch+Dot, Sepia+Dot, and Color, among others
  • The Cartoon Generator has a Batch option to perform mass photo-to-cartoon conversion

⇒ Download Cartoon Generator

Image Cartoonizer Software – Color effects

get Image Cartoonizer Software

The sight of the new image cartoonizer software on a desktop screen is quite inviting. A mere click separates images, large or small, from their animated selves.

While the software works just fine in most cases, the error management system is like no other.

The photo cartoonizer software for Windows 10 sorts using meaningful information to solve issues. It either corrects the problems or alerts the interested parties.

Main features that it brings to the table:

  • Developers have equipped the software with over 100 effects. Some include; the color balance, brightness/ contrast, sticky template, hair switch, sketch, and grey just to name but a few
  • A red-eye removal feature to get rid of any red-eye errors
  • Inserted photos convert at lightning speed, quicker than one would expect when working with an offline tool
  • The bigger the better, right? The image cartoonizer takes this quote quite literally, often delivering the best results when working with large photos
  • Convert a batch of photos in just one click, a real-time saver

⇒ Download Image Cartoonizer Software

The above programs are uniquely dynamic online and offline tools with a simple and convenient interface.

Their proficiency in creating dazzling, high-quality cartoons within an instant is remarkable. They are indeed the best photo cartoonizer software for Windows 10.

5 Best Auto DJ Software to Mix Songs on PC

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

The truth is that software that can automatically mix songs does not exist yet, and if it did we would probably already attend parties with Artificial Intelligence as a DJ, and this is not the case, at least not for the moment.

But what do exist and they’re great are programs that automatically detect the beats and synchronize them smoothly.

For instance, such software will be able to seamlessly sync a drum and bass tune with 160-180 BPM with a house song with a slower pace of 84 BPM, and so on.

We picked out five of the best software that can automatically mix songs and we’ve listed their sets of features so that you will be able to make an idea about what’s best for you.

Automatically mix music with these auto DJ software

Zulu DJ Software (recommended)

Zulu is a professional DJ mixing program that probably knocked even Pete Tong’s socks off and blew his mind when it first came out on the market.

This DJ software is the complete DJ mixer solution, and it packs some compelling features that are united in the most effortless-to-use interface.

You’ll be able to mix your music while applying the effects on the fly.

Check out its awe-inspiring set of features:

  • It comes with automatic beat detection so that your music will always stay on tempo.
  • All you have to do is load a track onto a deck, and Zulu DJ Software will automatically scan for its beat, assign a BPM and it will change the tempo of the second track for flawless customization.
  • The software can perfectly cross-fade between tracks, and it comes with real-time pitch and tempo adjustment.
  • It also provides an auto-play mode for hands-free and seamless music mixing.
  • Zulu DJ Software supports all popular audio formats, and it allows you to apply effects in real-time including reverb and distortion.
  • You can loop sections with a track and sync to the BPM.
  • It comes with VST plugin support for additional effects.

The safe live mode will successfully prevent accidents for flawless shows. This is the best DJ Software that you can possibly find on the market.

Download Zulu DJ Software to check out more of its features and to see for yourself more amazing functionalities that it includes.

Zulu DJ Software

A super-easy layout that anybody can grasp, encouraging you to start playing music and mixing tunes right away, for free!
Free Download

VirtualDJ

VirtualDJ is software used by DJs to replace their turntables and CD players and uses digital music instead of on CDs and vinyl.

Check out the most exciting functionalities that are included in this program below:

  • VirtualDJ has more options than a simple media player such as iTunes.
  • It allows you to mix your songs by playing two or more tunes at the same time.
  • You can adjust their relative speed so that the songs’ tempo will match.
  • You can also apply effects such as loops, and you will be able to crossfade from one side to the other.
  • The program lets you scratch your songs as well and set and recall cues.
  • VirtualDJ also lets you organize your collection of songs and group them effortlessly in a DJ-friendly way.
  • You can use various filters to find hot songs, and you can also find compatible keys and BPMs.

You will be able to access your previous playlists. If you are missing a song, the program will automatically find it online and stream it directly.

We recommend that you visit VirtualDJ’s official website to find out more about its amazing functionalities and to try out the software.

⇒ Get VirtualDJ

Traktor Pro 3

Traktor Pro 3 is one of the industry-leading software for Windows 10, a proficient tool designed to move dancefloors. 

Mix in the automatic functions and presets of the tool with four virtual decks, over 40 studio-quality effects, and a plethora of Traktor gear suited for professional performance. 

In its 20 years of development, Traktor has proven its worth in numerous aspects for creation, improvement, stability, and great sonic sculpting.

These are the main features of Traktor Pro 3:

  • Clear and well-organized interface
  • Experiment with your mix with the sync button to instantly blend your songs
  • Rate songs to create the perfect fluency for your mix
  • Take your set to the next level when performing live with the library organizer
  • Remix with loops, hot cues, and best jumps
  • Native recording for harmonic mixing 
  • Full FX suite included
  • It includes Traktor Scratching so you can use any soundcard you like, like vinyl

Traktor Pro 3 is compatible with any third-party controller, such as Native Instruments or Traktor-ready controllers, allowing you to set it up and start mixing straight away. 

The software comes with a library of free remixes and stems to help you along the way, and you can even build your own stems with the Stem Creator tool.

⇒ Get Traktor Pro 3

Mixxx

This is another advanced DJ software that is worth checking out especially since it’s also free. The program includes everything you need to start making DJ mixes.

Whether you are spinning at a club, Djing your house party, or broadcasting as a radio DJ, Mixxx has about everything required to make it right.

Take a look at the most impressive functionalities that are included in the program below:

  • The program comes with iTunes integration, and this means that all your songs and playlists will be ready to go for your next live DJ performance.
  • The software comes with 85 MIDI DJ controllers that are supported out-of-the-box and also with several HID controllers.
  • The program provides comprehensive hardware control for your mixes.
  • You will be able to instantly sync the tempo of four tunes for seamless beat mixing.
  • The mix comes with an Auto DJ that can take over from time to time.

The software also supports MP3, M4A/AAC, OGG, FLAC, and WAV audio, adjustable EQ shelves, timecode vinyl control, recording, and Shoutcast broadcasting.

To check out even more exciting features, it’s best to head over to Mixxx’s official website.

⇒ Get Mixxx

MixMeister Express

This is another robust program that you can use to create professional mixes with minimum effort. Check out the best features that are included in this software:

  • It allows you to create professional mixes with beat-mixed song transitions on PC and Mac as well.
  • You will be able to make songs slower and faster without having to change their pitch.
  • You can trim down longer songs, and you can remix shorter ones in order to extend them.
  • MixMeister Express 7.7 allows you to add special effects for more ways to blend the songs together.
  • You can create a full-length mix and export it to various devices.
  • The program also offers a random and smart playlist creation for mix suggestions.

Using MixMeister Express 7.7, you will be able to hit the exact tempo that you are after. You can use this program to create a mix for a dance floor and even for a fitness class, and you’ll be able to adjust the tempo to heat up people and to cool them down as well.

Take a look at more features that are included in the software on MixMeister Express 7.7’s official website.

If you are getting ready to become a DJ at the next party, you might be interested in the ION iMX05 MixMeister Express.

⇒ Get MixMeister Express

These are five of the best programs that will automatically help you with your tune mixing.

If you discovered that DJ-ing is your passion, take a look at some of our purposeful articles on tips and tricks in the world of music, and see for yourself which one fits your needs and skills the best. Check them out and have some fun!

You can find out more interesting stuff about audio software in our dedicated section, to give yourself and your friends a boost while enhancing your knowledge with technical and useful guides!

How to Connect Xbox Controller to Chromebook

Posted on by Hasibul Kabir

You may need to connect Xbox Controller to your Chromebook to get a better gaming experience from this platform. Usually, Chromebook is not a good gaming platform, unlike Windows. However, because of the ability to run Android apps, it has changed.

Nevertheless, there are some native games as well. Moreover, some tricks to run .exe files on Chrome OS have made it possible to play some Windows games too. But the problem begins when you want to use a decent controller with Chromebook. Can you do it?

How do I connect an Xbox Controller to Chromebook?

Fortunately, you can connect Xbox Controller to your Chromebook. However, before following the actual steps, you will need to ensure the following things:

  • Make sure the Xbox controller firmware is up to date. If necessary, see how to update Xbox Controller.
  • It doesn’t have any issues like physical damage or manufacturer faults.
  • Make sure that your controller model is compatible.

If everything seems OK, follow these steps to connect this Controller.

1. Use Bluetooth

  1. Open the ChromeOS settings.
  2. Go to Bluetooth and click on Pair new device.clicking pair new device chromebookx settings
  3. Turn on the Xbox controller.
  4. If necessary, press and hold the Pair button until it begins flashing.
  5. On Chromebook, you should see the Xbox controller under Available devices.pairing xbox controller chromebook
  6. Just click on it and connect.

This method will work with all compatible wireless Xbox controllers.

2. Use a USB cable

  1. If it is a wired controller, connect it via a USB cable.connect webcam using USB
  2. Your Chromebook should detect it without any problem.

These two methods explain how to connect Xbox one, 360, or any wired or wireless controller to Chromebook. It should work without any problem. If you are interested, learn how to solve the Xbox Controller USB device not recognized error.

If the controller doesn’t connect, see the next section of this article.

Why won’t my Xbox controller connect to my Chromebook?

If your Xbox controller doesn’t connect to the Chromebook, it can be because of the following things:

  • Compatibility issue: If the model you are using is not compatible, it will not connect to Chromebook.
  • You have not pressed the Pair button: As mentioned in method 1, you may need to press and hold the Pair button. If not, your Controller may not appear in the Bluetooth device list.
  • Internal faults: Internal problems with Xbox Controller can be another reason it is not connecting to
  • Issues with Chromebook: The root of the problem may also exist in your Chromebook. If the Bluetooth module is problematic or there are other bugs or problems, Xbox Controller will not connect.
  • Controller Firmware is outdated: Outdated firmware is another reason the Controller may not connect.

In this type of situation, we suggest you reset the Xbox Controller and update its firmware. In most cases, it will solve any connectivity issues. If you find there is a Bluetooth connectivity issue, see how to solve Xbox Controller keeps disconnecting.

This article has explained how you can connect Xbox Controller to Chromebook and why it may not connect, along with solutions. You can also try your luck with connecting your Xbox to your laptop.

Do you have any suggestions on this? Feel free to let us know in the comment box.

What to do if you are Unable to Format External Hard Drive

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Some Windows users reported to us that their external HDD won’t format. If you also experience the same issue, we would gladly help you with this post.

The external HDD won’t format problem is normally accompanied by the ‘Windows was unable to complete format’ error prompt. As a result of this, the format process is either halted or incomplete.

There are several reasons why the external HDD won’t format problem may occur; this includes:

  • Malware or virus infection
  • Missing or damaged DLL, SYS, or EXE files
  • Incorrect drive format
  • Damaged hard drive partition
  • Incompatible or outdated hardware drivers or BIOS, etc.

How do I do if the external hard drive won’t format?

1. Scan the external HDD for malware

Malware and viruses can cause external HDD format issues. Therefore, you should scan the external hard drive for potential malware or viruses.

In order to scan the external hard drive, you can use Windows’ built-in antivirus i.e. Windows Defender, or third-party antivirus programs.

Here’s how to scan your external hard drive for viruses:

  • Plug the external hard drive into your system
  • Go to Start > type ‘defender’ > double click Windows Defender to launch the tool
  • In the left-hand pane, select the shield iconexternal hdd wont format
  • In the new window, click the Custom scan tick box.
  • Now, click on the ‘Scan Now’ option.

Alternatively, you can use a third-party option, such as ESET HOME Security Essential. This is one of the best antivirus in 2023 for Windows PCs because it can scan your external hard drive and protect your whole PC against all threats without slowing down your device.

It can also remove threats while preserving your data. Once the scan and removal processes are done, you will be able to safely open your files.

Moreover, ESET HOME Security Essential acts as a web-filtering antivirus software when you share your PC with multiple people. It can help you set browsing permissions so no other users can access harmful websites.

⇒ Get ESET HOME Security

2. Use third-party tools

Saving the best for the last, there are several third-party tools out there which you can use to format your external HDD without stress. Therefore, you can try out any of them in order to resolve the external HDD won’t format problem.

Dedicated partition format software are safe to use and do not require expert-level knowledge from users.

Besides allowing you to format your partitions, they come with additional features that let you merge/split, resize or create new partitions.

They include instructions along each step of the formatting process to ensure you know exactly what happens and you get the results you are looking for.

3. Run a SFC scan

  • Press Windows+Q and type cmd.
  • From the search results, right-click Command Prompt and choose “Run as Administrator”.external hdd wont format
  • A new cmd window appears. Type sfc /scannow and hit the ‘Enter’ key.
  • Wait until scan and repair process is finished.

Corrupt system files can also cause external HDD format problems. Therefore, you can use SFC (System File Checker) utility tool, which scans the system files to check for integrity file violations for systematic resolution.

4. Run CHKDSK

  • Go to Start > Type command prompt >Right-click on it, and select Run as administrator.
  • Now, type CHKDSK C: /F.
  • Hence, type CHKDSK C: /R without quotes in the Command Prompt and hit Enter key.
  • After the CHKDSK process, restart your PC afterward.

CHKDSK can also be used to solve the external HDD won’t format problem. This is because CHKDSK cleans up disk-related errors from your drive.

Note: Ensure you type in the external drive letter in the second step above. Sometimes, the letter might be F, G, or any alphabet.

5. Install the latest updates

  • Go to Start>type update in the search box, then click on Windows Update to proceed.
  • Check for updates in the Windows Update window and install the available updates.external hdd wont format
  • After the update is complete, restart your Windows PC.

Outdated BIOS and hardware drivers can cause external HDD won’t format problems. So, therefore, it is essential that you update your PC so as to resolve the issue.

Besides, Windows updates can fix many Windows OS issues, especially any external HDD-related issue.

6. Use Diskpart

Follow these steps to use Diskpart:

  • Plug in the external HDD into your system
  • Go to Start > Type Command Prompt without quotes.
  • Select Command Prompt (Admin) to open the Prompt’s window.
  • In the Command prompt window, type ‘diskpart’, and then press the Enter key. This will open the Diskpart window.external hdd wont format
  • Now, type ‘list disk’ and hit the Enter key to open a list of drives.external hdd wont format
  • Type ‘select disk n’ in the Diskpart window, and press the Enter key. (Note: replace the n with the number of the external hard drive you intend to select.external hdd wont format
  • Type ‘clean’ without quotes, and hit the Enter key.
  • Proceed by typing ‘create partition primary’ command in Diskpart, and hit the Enter key
  • Finally, type format fs=ntfs quick and press Enter to format the external HDD with NTFS (New Technology File System).

Some Windows users reported that they fixed the external HDD won’t format problems simply by using Diskpart. On the other hand, Diskpart is a utility tool that can be used to format the external hard drive. However, before accessing Diskpart, you need to use the Command Prompt.

7. Run the Disk management tool

  • Plug in your external hard drive
  • Go to Start > type ‘disk management‘ > select the Disk Management utilityexternal hdd wont format
  • Right-click the drive that you want to format > select the Format option
  • Follow the prompts to proceed with the format process > click OK on the warning window.
  • After the format process is complete, you can use your drive.

Another workaround applicable in resolving the external HDD won’t format problem is by using disk management. This tool formats and restores the default drive settings, enabling you to format your external hard drive once and for all.

In conclusion, we do hope that any of the solutions we mentioned above helped you to fix the external drive without a format problem. However, if you still experience the problem, you can use an enclosure with a SATA cable for the external HDD before you proceed with the format process.

Now that you know how to fix this issue, check our guide on how to properly format PS4 hard drive on Windows 11.

If you have any questions or comments regarding any of the solutions we mentioned above or you experience technical issues with your Windows PC, feel free to comment below.

Hyper-V Backup Software: 7 Best to Use in 2026

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Every time a Windows user runs more than two operating systems virtually on the same piece of hardware there is a potential chance for loss of data or services. Hence the need for backup software for Hyper-V.

Why do I need Hyper-V backup tools? Loss of data means a drop in a considerable amount of revenue and standing. Why should anyone, for that matter, want to suffer that risk when they can get a backup solution that allows for the restoration of info in a fitting manner?

Different Hyper-V backup tools have different features. Some are strong and unique; others are plain weak. In order to make an informed choice, take a look at our top picks below. 

What are the best Hyper-V backup software tools?

Acronis Cyber Backup – Quick back-up and recovery

If you frequently work within a Windows Server Environment, then you know about the importance of backing up and keeping your data safe. 

That being said, it goes without saying that you will be probably looking for the best software tool available that works in that direction.

Acronis Cyber Backup is one such tool, and the best part is that, with just a few simple steps, you can back up data to the storage location of your choice.

Additionally, this powerful tool is capable of recovering individual files, applications, or a complete system in mere seconds. 

Of course, all types of servers are supported, including those that are virtual, physical, and cloud.

Here are some Acronis Cyber Backup key features that you are about to enjoy:

  • Easy to use
  • Offers a 30-day free trial period
  • Efficient server backup and protection features
  • Works with physical, virtual, or cloud-based servers
  • Can recover individual files, applications, or a complete system

Paragon Backup

Paragon is a free backup software for Hyper-V with an unquestionable two-decade experience in data safety and recovery practices.

Small and medium businesses together with freelancers are able to efficiently spread out and administer storage resources in three easy-to-use steps.

All you need to do is download and install the tool, restart your computer, create a new file or partition, and then back up your data.

While the ordinary version of Paragon Backup works just fine, its paid service is capable of a whole lot more. Discover what other features come in handy from purchasing the premium backup and recovery software.

Paragon Backup key features that you are about to enjoy:

  • WinPE flexible restore – The WinPE environment allows for flexibility to put back data based on what the user needs; restoring an entire disk is as acceptable as restoring only parts of it
  • Recovery media (WinPE-based) – Create a recovery environment, savable in bootable media such as a USB or CD drive; this way, data is safe and secure, even with a corrupted OS
  • Differential backup – A data preservation feature that dwells on saving up on storage space through smart selection
  • Intelligent automation lets users schedule their own backups based on chosen triggers

NovaBACKUP – Simple and reliable tool

Executing backups can be a time-consuming task. If only there was a way to protect valuable data without having to deal with the tussle of doing so.

NovaStor, a provider of data security solutions created NovaBACKUP. Like any other backup software for Hyper-V on this list, NovaBACKUP is a scalable and reliable software that meets the needs and requirements of the user.

What sets it apart though, is its configurable solutions that can be adjusted to match the user’s budget and particular necessities.

NovaBACKUP key features:

  • NovaBACKUP works 4x faster than its closest competitor; this turns the software into a virtual bullet
  • The image-level or file-level backup options
  • Support for cloud saving services such as Google Drive and Dropbox
  • Disaster recovery (Image backup)
  • Server, PC, and VM backups
  • Full, differential, and incremental backups

Veeam Backup & Replication – Fast incremental back-up

Microsoft’s Hyper-V is a revolutionary virtualization tool although not invincible. Some physical workstations and servers refuse to be virtualized.

These have demanding regulatory compliance requirements and complicated hardware structures. As such, incidents such as file corruption and hardware failures are inevitable. They leave data to exposure.

Veeam Backup and Replication mitigates such occurrences. The software bridges the gap between large different environments.

Incremental backups succeed as a primary backup in a fast process that works towards saving as much storage as possible.

Compare the free and paid versions to determine which best fits your virtual environment.

Veeam Backup key features:

  • User-friendly interface
  • No installation and management requirements whatsoever
  • Tape library for auxiliary saving
  • Create a scheduled backup
  • Premium support team

⇒ Get Veeam Backup & Replication

Altaro Hyper-V Backup – Great for VM back-up

The free version of the Altaro VM backup takes preference over its two paid versions on any day.

This is with respect to an increasing number of Hyper-V users that are in search of keen and live backups to fit their cheap to no budgetary plans.

The Altaro VM backup works with a maximum of 2 virtual machines. It uses reverse delta and compression for backup.

It also accepts applications accordant with Hyper-V VSS Writers such as SQL and Exchange Server.

Let’s see some of its best features:

  • Simple and easy to use
  • Works with a maximum of 2 VMs
  • Reverse delta and compression for backup
  • Cloud-based client, accessible from any location

⇒ Get Altaro Hyper-V Backup

Nakivo – Great for backup and replication

NAKVIO Backup & Replication was built speciffically for virtual environments. It is a fast, affordable, VM backup solution for multiple virtualization environments.

That includes VMware vSphere, VMware Cloud Director, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Nutanix AHV among others.

The solution doesn’t cover only virtual machines, but also cloud, physical, SaaS and hybrid environments, all from a centralized web interface.

You can install it on NAS, Windows, Linux or as a pre-configured VMware vSphere or Nutanix AHV VA and you will be able to get your first VM backup in just a few minutes.

And the best part is that NAKVIO only requires 2 cores and 4 GB of RAM for full deployment and to start running backups.

Don’t worry, your data will be safe because you can encrypt it in transit and at rest using AES-256 encryption. As for the access to the solution itself, the two-factor authentication (2FA) method is golden.

Let’s review some of its most important features:

  • Over 9 recovery options
  • Image-based, incremental, app-aware backups of VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V and Nutanix AHV VMs
  • Only 5 minutes to deploy and configure
  • 2X faster if you install it on a NAS
  • Send backups directly to cloud platforms

⇒ Get NAKVIO

Iperius Backup – Very affordable

Iperius Backup is a complete and affordable backup software for Hyper-V that performs hot VM backups. It then copies them to NAS, tape devices, or across the network in an automatic rhythm.

Do note that users can back up with synchronization or compression, copy locked files, and perform an online backup to the cloud and FTP.

Iperius Backup key features:

  • Lightweight software tool with a rich choice of options
  • Save unlimited VMs in a network and execute a bunch of other backup types
  • Integrated utility – wealthy diversification network
  • Copy any in-use or locked file allowing for an uninterrupted backup for Hyper-V
  • Restore on different hosts with incremental backups
  • Versatile agentless solution

⇒ Get Iperius Backup

The above backup software options for Hyper-V including Paragon, Veeam, Altaro, NovaBACKUP, and Iperius are highly innovative and flexible.

They have been made just right, for the most complex enterprise environments. With these, users can now worry less about the safety of their data and focus their attention on other endeavors.

If you want to learn more about Hyper-V, check our dedicated article on how Client Hyper V works in Windows 10.

Which solution did you choose? Let us know about your preference in the comments section below.

How to Make Taskbar Icons Bigger with 3 Easy Steps

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Windows 10 doesn’t have the built-in option that allows you to change the size of Taskbar icons, so you may wonder how to make Taskbar icons bigger.

Of course, this is a matter of taste, and while some look to enlarge icons on their taskbar, others are looking for ways to show the taskbar date in small icons in Windows 10, for instance.

The Taskbar has been present from the earliest versions of Windows and has remained a crucial part of the Windows experience. Nevertheless, the taskbar has changed over the years.

For instance, the earliest versions of Windows didn’t have Quick Launch icons. Instead, you could only see the list of currently opened apps.

How do I make taskbar icons bigger?

1. Change the display scaling

Note icon NOTE
This feature will also change the size of the text and other elements on your screen. So, if you choose to use the display scaling option, bear in mind that you’ll also increase the size of other elements.
    1. Open the Settings app. You can do that instantly by using Windows Key + I shortcut.

  2. 2. Now go to the System section.

    system settings app small taskbar icons

  3. 3. Locate Change the size of text, apps, and other items option and change it to 125%.

    display scaling taskbar icons too small

    4. If your Taskbar icons look too small, perhaps you can fix this issue by changing the display scaling setting. Don’t worry, if the Windows Settings app won’t open, you can easily fix it with our help.

    Sometimes your applications and icons can appear smaller, especially on a larger display, and this is why many users use the display scaling feature. After doing that, the size of your icons, text, and apps will change.

    This change will also affect the size of your Taskbar icons. If the elements on your screen look too big after making this change, revert the settings to the default value and proceed to the next solution.

2. Make sure that you’re not using small icons

  1. Open the Settings app and go to the Personalization section.
    personalization make taskbar icons bigger
  2. Now select Taskbar from the left pane.
  3. In the right pane, be sure to disable Use small taskbar buttons option.
    use small taskbar icons disable taskbar icons too small

Sometimes, your Taskbar icons might look too small if you have a small Taskbar buttons option enabled.

Windows 10 has two sizes available for Taskbar icons, normal and small, and you can change the size of the Taskbar icons by performing the steps indicated above.

If this feature is already disabled, it means that you’re using the normal size for Taskbar icons. Unfortunately, there’s no way to further increase the size of Taskbar icons without using third-party solutions.

3. Use StartIsBack++ tool

  1. Run StartIsBack++.
  2. Go to the Appearance tab from the left pane. In the right pane, check the Use larger taskbar option.
  3. Click Apply and OK and you’re good to go.

Finally, here’s a third-party solution that might help you increase the size of your Taskbar icons.

StartIsBack++ was initially designed for Windows 8 to restore the Start Menu, but it can also be used to customize the look of your Taskbar.

As you can see, changing the size of Taskbar icons is simple with this tool. However, bear in mind that it isn’t free, but it’s available for a free trial, so you might want to try it out.

Can I make my taskbar icons bigger on Windows 10?

As previously mentioned, there is no native feature that can allow you to increase the taskbar icon size. While there is a scaling option, it will also change the text size and other elements on your screen.

So, how can the taskbar icons be increased in size? As always, there are ways to deal with a taskbar that is too small or with small icons.

Customization needs don’t just apply to Windows 10. If you already jumped the Win 11 boat, you might be looking for convenient ways to change the taskbar size in Windows 11, and to change icon size on Windows 10 as well.

In short, users will want to know how to make taskbar icons more prominent in Windows 7, Windows 10, or Windows 11, as per their needs.

These are some of the ways that you can use to change the size of Taskbar icons especially if apps like Xbox keep pinning themselves and taking up space.

Before you leave, find out if you can hide the battery icon in Windows 11.

Windows 10 doesn’t have the option to increase the size of Taskbar icons manually, so if the first two solutions didn’t fix the problem, you’ll have to use third-party software to change the size of Taskbar icons.

How to Safely Remove Hardware Icon Missing in Windows 10/11

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

It is safer to click on “Safely remove hardware,” when you want to remove your USB flash drive from a computer, than just pulling it out. But, what if this button disappears from the notification area? Don’t worry, we have a solution for that.

Missing Safely Remove Hardware icon can be a problem, but users reported the following issues as well:

  • Safely Remove Hardware icon not working, missing, not showing, not responding, not active
    • Many users reported that Safely Remove Hardware icon isn’t working on their PC.
    • According to users, the icon isn’t responding, and in some cases, the icon isn’t showing at all.
  • Safely Remove Hardware icon won’t go away, always present, stays on, stuck, always showing
    • Several users reported that they can’t remove Safely Remove Hardware icon.
    • According to them, the icon is always showing and it seems that it’s stuck.
  • Safely Remove Hardware icon flashing
    • Several users reported that their Safely Remove Hardware icon is flashing.
    • This can be caused by corrupted drivers, so be sure to reinstall them.
  • Safely Remove Hardware icon does not show devices
    • This is an unusual problem, and several users reported that they can’t see their devices using Safely Remove Hardware feature.
  • Safely Remove Hardware error message
    • Sometimes various errors can appear while using Safely Remove Hardware feature.
    • These errors are usually caused by your settings or by driver issues.

How can I open a Safely remove hardware window in Windows 10?

1. Create Safely Remove Hardware shortcut

As staff from Microsoft forums pointed out, Safely Remove Hardware icon can sometimes disappear from the notification area in the taskbar, especially in Windows 10.

So, even if the device is found, and it functions well, this button just doesn’t show. Luckily, there’s a simple solution for this problem, and all you have to do to solve it is to follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows key and R at the same time. This will open the Run window.
  2. Enter the following command into Run, and press Enter or click OK:
    • RunDll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL hotplug.dll
      Safely Remove Hardware icon does not show devices run dll32.exe
  3. This will open Safely Remove Hardware dialog, from this dialog, you can select the device you want to remove and remove it, by clicking on Stop.
    Safely Remove Hardware error message stop usb device

We hope that this problem won’t happen more than once, but if it does happen again, you can create a Desktop shortcut to Safely Remove Hardware dialog, so you don’t have to launch it from Run every time. To create this shortcut, just follow the instructions:

  1. Right-click on Desktop, and go to New>Shortcut.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon not responding create a shortcut
  2. Enter the following location of the shortcut:
    • RunDll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL hotplug.dll
      Safely Remove Hardware icon stuck rundll.32.exe create custom shortcut
  3. Click Next, and rename it to Safely Remove Hardware.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon flashing safely remove hardware custom shortcut
  4. Click Finish.

After the recent updates, you can unplug your USB devices without hitting Safely Remove Hardware. If you’re interested in more info about that, check out this article.

2. Change your notification settings

Several users reported that Safely Remove Hardware icon is missing on their PC. This icon isn’t missing and it’s most likely hidden in your Taskbar.

To reveal this icon, you just need to click the arrow in the bottom right corner to show more sysbar icons. If the icon is available, you can permanently pin it to your Taskbar by doing the following:

  1. Connect a USB flash drive or any other removable storage to your PC.
  2. Click the arrow in the bottom right corner to expand the sysbar section.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon does not show devices navigation bar shortcuts
  3. Now locate Safely Remove Hardware icon and drag it to your Taskbar.
    Safely Remove Hardware error message safely remove hardware shortcut

If your Taskbar isn’t working, take a look at this simple guide that will help you solve the issue.

After doing that, the icon should be pinned to your Taskbar and visible whenever you insert a removable media. You can also change this setting using the Settings app:

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. When Settings app opens, go to the Personalization section.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon missing settings personalization
  3. From the menu on the left select Taskbar. Now in the Notification area click on Select which icons appear on the taskbar.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon always present taskbar select which icons appear on the taskbar
  4. Locate Safely Remove Hardware and make sure that it’s enabled.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon flashing windows explorer taskbar shortcut enabled

After doing that, the icon should appear in your Taskbar and the problem will be resolved.

3. Reinstall your devices

According to users, you might be able to fix this problem simply by reinstalling your devices. If Safely Remove Hardware icon is missing, the problem might be your drivers.

To fix the issue, you just need to remove the problematic drivers and let Windows reinstall them. This is rather simple and you can do it by following these steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + X to open the Win + X menu and choose Device Manager from the list. You can also open this menu by right-clicking the Start Button.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon won't go away open device manager
  2. When Device Manager opens, go to View and check Show hidden devices.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon flashing show hidden devices device manager
  3. Navigate to Universal Serial Bus controller section, and delete USB controllers.
    • To do that, simply right-click a device and choose Uninstall device from the menu.
      Safely Remove Hardware icon does not show devices uninstall the hidden USB mass storage
  4. The confirmation dialog will now appear. Click on Uninstall button to remove the device.
    Safely Remove Hardware error message uninstall standard enhanced PCI to usb host controllerNote: Keep in mind that you might have to uninstall all devices in this section before you can fix the problem.

After removing the problematic driver, you just have to connect your USB device to the PC and Windows 10 should automatically recognise it. Once your device is recognised, Safely Remove Hardware icon should appear again.

4. Restart Windows Explorer

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Now locate Windows Explorer on the list and right click it.
  3. Select Restart from the menu.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon not working

This is just a workaround, but several users reported that it worked for them. If your Safely Remove Hardware icon is missing, you can restore it simply by restarting Windows Explorer process.

After doing that, Windows Explorer will restart and your Safely Remove Hardware icon should reappear. Keep in mind that this is just a workaround, so you’ll have to repeat this solution whenever the issue occurs.

5. Change your device policy

If Safely Remove Hardware icon is missing on your PC, you might be able to fix the problem simply by changing your device policy. To do that, connect your USB flash drive to the PC and follow these steps:

  1. Go to Device Manager.
  2. Expand Disk drives section and double click your removable storage.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon does not show devices disk drives USB Mass Storage properties
  3. When Properties window opens, go to the Policies tab. Select Better performance and click on OK to save changes.
    Safely Remove Hardware error message device policies
  4. Optional: Some users are recommending to repeat these steps and select Quick Removal option again. This isn’t mandatory, but sometimes switching between these two options fixes the issue.

After enabling this option, the Safely Remove Hardware icon should appear again on your Taskbar.

6. Check if Plug and Play service is running

To check if the necessary services are running, do the following:

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter services.msc. Press Enter or click OK.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon not showing run services.msc
  2. When Services window opens, locate Plug and Play and double click it.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon stays on restart plug and play service
  3. The Properties window will now appear. Check the Service status. If the service isn’t running click on Start button to start it. Now click Apply and OK to save changes.
    Safely Remove Hardware icon flashing restart plug and play services
    Note: Some users are suggesting to change the Startup type from Manual to Automatic, so you might want to try that as well.

Windows uses all sorts of services in order to run properly, and if Safely Remove Hardware icon is missing, the problem might be related to your services.

It unlikely that your Plug and Play service is stopped, but sometimes these issues can occur, so be sure to check if the service is running properly on your PC.

7. Use third-party tools

If Safely Remove Hardware icon is still missing, you might want to consider using a third-party solution as a temporary workaround. Many users reported that they used USB Disk Ejector software to safely disconnect their USB devices.

This is a free and portable application that allows you to safely disconnect any USB storage device from your PC. If you can’t fix the problem with missing Safely Remove Hardware icon, be sure to try USB Disk Ejector.

If you can’t eject you’re USB device in Windows 10, we’ve prepared a quick guide that will help you fix the issue in no time.

That would be all, I hope that problem with Safely Remove Hardware icon disappearance won’t bother you more than once.

Tell us in the comments, do you prefer to ‘use’ Safely Remove Hardware button when you’re removing your USB (or some other peripheral), or you just pull it out?

Windows Automation Software: 6 Best We Tested [2026 List]

Posted on by Matthew Adams

A macro recorder is one notable tool Windows lacks. If you’ve ever used the MS Office or LibreOffice suites, you might be familiar with the macro tools they have that enable users to record a sequence of selected options or actions to automate more repetitive tasks.

If Windows 10 included a similar macro recorder, you could automate a multitude of PC tasks that would otherwise require manual input. For example, you could set up macros that automatically launch four alternative programs at once or adjust a theme setting.

As Windows lacks a macro-recording tool, some publishers have developed automation software for creating macros and apps. These programs enable users to script macros and apps from scratch; the less code-savvy can record macros instead.

Alternatively, some Windows automation software might enable you to set up batch files within a GUI to automate tasks. The more advanced automation programs are generally scripting tools. Here are five programs that you can automate PC tasks in Windows with.

What’s the best software to automate PC tasks?

RoboTask (recommended)

RoboTask users can automate a range of PC tasks with a multitude of custom variables and more advanced options.

You could use this software to automatically open multiple programs and documents, manage automatic backups, send emails, process folders, and files, shut down Windows with a specified trigger, and lots more besides.

Or you can add a freeware RoboTask Lite version to Windows, which has more limited actions and system variables, from this web page.

RoboTask enables you to automate PC tasks by selecting actions and then editing them to meet your requirements further. You can select 205 automated actions for software applications, FTP servers, emails, ZIP files, flow control, and file processing.

Aside from setting up automated tasks, you can add various trigger events that activate the macros. For example, you can set up system events to activate the automated tasks or schedule them for specific times.

RoboTask has its own macro recorder with which you can record mouse and keyboard actions to automate tasks. In addition, the software has a Service Manager utility that enables automated tasks to work with system privileges even when you’re not logged into Windows.

This program also supports plug-ins, and its BASIC plug-in enables users to create custom BASIC scripts.

RoboTask

RoboTask

With triggered events and a variety of automated chores, this macro recorder droid simplifies every operation.
Check priceVisit website

AutoHotkey

AutoHotkey is open-source scripting software for Windows. The program has an intuitive scripting language with which you can automate many tasks, and the software also enables users to remap keyboards and create mouse hotkeys.

You can add AutoHotkey’s non-portable or portable version to all Windows platforms on the software’s website.

AutoHotkey enables you to set up scripts to schedule system scans, fill out form fields, open software or web pages with keystrokes, automatically close programs, and much more.

The software’s scripting language allows users to compile basic and more complex scripts with custom GUIs into portable EXE files.

Note that this software doesn’t have its own text editor, so users must compile their scripts in Notepad or other third-party programs.

You can select most of AutoHotkey’s options from its system tray icon. The software’s website includes scripting tutorials, but you can also download (or copy and paste) ready-made scripts.

⇒ Get AutoHotkey

MicroFocus | RPA

Robotic Process Automation by MicroFocus provides durable robots for corporate businesses to combine screen and API automation, whether the process is simple or complicated.

It recognizes screen items using AI-based machine learning or attribute-based object recognition, even when the objects move or change color or size. They can recognize over 600 UI objects across the web, Windows, and SAP.

HR departments can use digital workflows to parse PDF files, send notifications, and enter data. RPA encrypts data, prepares financial reports, reads emails, and interacts with business support apps, even for finance and sales activities.

Robotic Process Automation makes all tasks look keen and fluid by encrypting them. All of the resilient robots’ actions may be easily tracked in detailed logs and on a central dashboard.

You may specify and control all phases in your automation with advanced orchestration for decision-making, parallel processing, and error handling.

⇒ Get MicroFocus | RPA

WinAutomation

WinAutomation can automate pretty much anything!

This software enables users to build ‘software robots’ to automate tasks. WinAutomation is an advanced application for creating macro scripts to automate Windows, websites, web applications, and other third-party software.

Although there’s a cheaper Standard edition that still includes most of the options and tools in the Pro version.

WinAutomation has a much more extensive GUI than AutoHotkey. One of the best things about this program is its Visual Software Robot Designer, which has a drag-and-drop UI that enables you to drag and drop actions into a script.

That also includes visual debugger tooltips and help balloons that highlight errors.

The software has a Macro Recorder with which you can record mouse clicks and keystrokes. As such, no manual scripting is required to automate tasks with WinAutomation.

This program also has a Web Recorder for automating browser tasks like form filling. With the software’s Email Automation Actions tool, you can send automated emails and automate email processing and sorting.

This program has a handy Task Scheduler tool to schedule macros and programs to run at specific times, and users can also design their own dialog windows for software robots with the UI Designer.

⇒ Get WinAutomation

Macro Express

Macro Express is a proprietary program that has an extensive set of macro commands with which to automate Windows. The software has a Pro version.

Macro Express Pro enables users to run macros simultaneously and includes an enhanced script editor. There’s also a portable version of the software that you can run from USB drives.

Macro Express has Script Editor and Direct Editor tools that enable users to create macros from scratch with script commands. The Direct Editor shows users more specific details for each macro command.

Alternatively, you can use the software’s Capture utility, which has a variety of capture settings, to record macros. Quick Wizards, which guide you through creating the macros, are another good addition to the program.

The software even enables you to create floating menus to select macros to playback.

Another good thing about ME is that it provides multiple methods for activating macros, which include keyboard shortcuts, floating menus, system events, scheduling, and mouse clicks.

You can even configure the macros to run in more specific windows or programs. In addition, the publisher includes extensive Macro Express Pro guides on its website; and you can also download shared macros from the site.

⇒ Get Macro Expert

JitBit Macro Recorder


JitBit Macro Recorder includes a macro recorder and visual editor for inserting custom commands to automate PC tasks. Macro Recorder has Basic, Pro, and Premium versions retailing on the publisher’s site.

The publisher also offers free Macro Recorder copies for blog reviews of JitBit software. Furthermore, there’s a freeware Lite version of the software that retains the recording options from the full package.

JitBit Macro Recorder is a flexible package you can record and edit macros with.

With the macro editor, users can insert extra custom commands along the lines of ‘shutdown,’ ‘open file’ and ‘launch websites’ and include for-loops and if-then statements within the macro code.

You can even add C# code snippets to macros in the Premium version. Macro Recorder includes various recording options to configure the playback speed, loop the playback, select alternative recording modes, and set up macro-recording filters.

Then the software enables you to add keyboard shortcuts to activate the with. The Premium and Pro versions include a scheduling tool and EXE compiler to convert the macros to EXE files.

⇒ Get JitBit Macro Recorder

There’s a lot of software that enables you to automate PC tasks. Those six programs have fairly extensive tools and options to create macros and scripts to automate Windows and other third-party software.

Boost your workflow with this free keyboard macro recorder guide for quick picks and setup tips.

You can also make use of Windows native app Power Automate but it may be plagued by network errors from time to time.

Overall, they can save you a lot of time by doing it all for you!

If you have any other questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below; we’ll check them out.