Reinstall & Repair Windows Security on Windows 11 [How to]

Windows 11 has its antivirus, but if it encounters issues, you might need to reinstall Windows Security on Windows 11, and this guide will show you a few ways to do it

How do I reinstall Windows Defender in Windows 11?

1. Use Windows PowerShell

  1. Right-click on the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin) from the menu. Open windows terminal to install windows security
  2. Copy and paste the below command in the Terminal and hit Enter: Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.SecHealthUI -AllUsers | Reset-AppxPackageRun command in powershell to repair and reinstall Windows Security
  3. Once the command is successfully executed and it generates the success message, exit the Terminal.

Alternatively, you can use the following command instead: PowerShell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted -Command "& {$manifest = (Get-AppxPackage WindowsDefender).InstallLocation + '\AppxManifest.xml' ; Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register -ForceApplicationShutdown $manifest}

Using these commands, you should be able to repair Windows Security in Windows 11.

After you reinstall or repair the Windows Security app, check out this complete guide on how to use Windows Security effectively to keep your PC protected.

2. Reset Windows Security via Settings

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Apps and Features.
    apps and features menu
  2. Locate Windows Security, click the three dots next to it, and choose Advanced options.
    advanced options in apps settings
  3. Next, click on Reset and click Reset again to confirm.
    reset app windows 11

How do I reset Windows Security in Windows 11?

You can achieve this from the Settings app, by following the guides from Solution 2 of this guide.

You can try these methods if Windows Security is not opening in Windows 11 or if Windows Defender is missing. However, if the problem persists, your only option might be to reset Windows 11 or use a different antivirus software.

As for other issues, we wrote a guide on what to do if Windows Defender turns off on Windows 11, so don’t miss it for more information.

What method do you use to reinstall Windows Defender on Windows 11? Let us know in the comments section below.

Windows 11 System Requirements: Complete Guide for Compatibility

Windows 11 system requirements determine whether your PC is ready to upgrade to Microsoft’s latest operating system. In this guide, we break down all the essentials in simple steps, so even beginners can confidently check if their computer is supported.

Whether you’re using a desktop, laptop, or tablet, this checklist walks you through everything from basic hardware to advanced feature requirements.

✅ Minimum and Feature-Specific Requirements for Windows 11

Basic Requirements (Applies to All Devices)

These are the minimum specs your system must meet to install Windows 11:

  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit CPU or SoC
  • RAM: At least 4 GB
  • Storage: Minimum of 64 GB
  • System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
  • TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
  • Graphics: DirectX 12 compatible with WDDM 2.0 driver
  • Display: 9-inch or larger, with 720p resolution and 8 bits per color channel
  • Internet: Internet connection required for updates and Microsoft account setup

💡 Tip: The Home edition of Windows 11 requires a Microsoft account and internet connection to complete setup.

If you’re still unsure whether it’s worth moving on from Windows 10, here’s why Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 right now.


How to Check Your PC’s Compatibility

To verify whether your device meets Windows 11 system requirements:

  • Download the official PC Health Check Tool
  • Run the scan to get an instant yes/no answer
  • Review any failed checks and suggested upgrades

Need a step-by-step walkthrough? See our full guide: Is my computer compatible with Windows 11?.


Advanced Feature Requirements

Some Windows 11 features need extra hardware. Here’s what you’ll need if you want to use them:

Security and Encryption

  • BitLocker: Requires TPM 2.0 and Windows 11 Pro or higher
  • Two-factor Authentication: Needs biometric hardware or phone with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth

Productivity and Multitasking

  • Snap Layouts (3-column): Best on displays with 1920px width or more
  • Virtualization-based Security (VBS): Requires supported modern processors and BIOS settings

Windows Hello and Biometrics

  • Windows Hello: Requires infrared camera or fingerprint reader
  • Wake on Voice: Needs microphone and Modern Standby support

Gaming and Graphics

  • DirectStorage: Needs an NVMe SSD (1 TB or more) and DirectX 12 Ultimate GPU
  • Auto HDR: HDR monitor required
  • DirectX 12 Ultimate: Supported GPU needed

Communication Features

  • Mute/Unmute from Taskbar: Needs video camera, mic, and speaker
  • Intelligent Video Conferencing: Requires all audio and video components

Connectivity and Sensors

  • Wi-Fi 6E: Needs compatible Wi-Fi 6E hardware and router
  • 5G Support: Requires a 5G modem
  • Presence Detection: Needs sensor to detect user proximity
  • Spatial Sound: Requires compatible hardware/software

Optional Accessories for Enhanced Experience

  • Touch Support: Requires a screen or monitor with multi-touch capability
  • Precision Touchpad: Needed if touchpad is present
  • USB Ports: At least one is mandatory
  • Video Output: Required for external displays
  • Hardware Buttons: Power, Volume Up/Down for tablets or hybrid devices

Supported Device Categories

Windows 11 supports many device types, including:

  • Desktop PCs
  • All-in-One PCs (Fixed or Portable)
  • Notebooks and Laptops
  • Mini PCs (under 1-liter volume, no display)
  • Convertibles and Detachables
  • Tablets with touch input

Windows 11-Compatible CPU List

Microsoft maintains an official list of supported CPUs:

Intel (examples)

  • 8th Gen and newer (e.g., i5-8250U, i7-8650U, i9-8950HK)
  • Xeon and Core X-Series supported (depending on model)

AMD (examples)

  • Ryzen 2000 series and up (e.g., Ryzen 5 2600, Ryzen 7 2700X)
  • EPYC and Athlon Gold 3150U also supported

Qualcomm

  • Snapdragon 7c, 8c, and 8cx Series (Gen 1 and 2)

📌 You can find the full compatibility list for your processor model on Microsoft’s official documentation.


FAQs

How do I know if my PC has TPM 2.0?

Open Windows Security > Device Security > Security processor details. You can also check using tpm.msc.

Can I install Windows 11 on an unsupported device?

Yes, but it requires manual ISO installation and bypassing system checks. This is not officially recommended and may prevent updates.

Does Windows 11 support older apps and drivers?

Yes, most apps from Windows 10 will work, but legacy drivers may need updates or replacements.

Why does Windows 11 require Secure Boot and TPM?

These features enhance security by protecting against firmware-level threats and ensuring system integrity.


Conclusion

Windows 11 system requirements are designed to ensure performance, stability, and security across modern devices. While the base requirements are fairly lenient, advanced features like DirectStorage and Windows Hello demand newer hardware. Use the PC Health Check Tool to assess your device, and explore upgrade options if needed.

Windows 11 HDR Not Supported [Solved]

There is no reason to deny that Windows 11 has improved upon its predecessor in several ways. However, it still has errors and bugs, such as the Windows 11 HDR not supported issue.

Let’s find out what causes HDR to not work on Windows 11 and how to fix it.

Why is HDR not working on Windows 11?

If your personal computer does not support auto high dynamic range, the function will not operate. You also need to check to see that this function is turned on.

The failure of Windows 11 Auto HDR to function correctly may be caused by an HDMI cable incompatible with the operating system and not supporting HDMI 2.0b.

If you utilize the appropriate HDMI cable, you should not have any problems using this feature. However, if the HDR stream choice is not visible to you, this may be because the monitor does not support the particular technology in question.

What can I do if Windows 11 HDR is not supported?

1. Install a color profile for your monitor

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I, then type color management in the search box and select the top result.color-management auto hdr not working windows 11
  2. Select your monitor from the drop-down box next to the Device label.select
  3. Select Add, then Browse to select the file you downloaded.Browse
  4. Highlight the new color profile by clicking on it and selecting Set as Default Profile before you close the Color Management panel.

Gray-outs, washed-out, inaccurate colors, and many other problems related to auto-HDR are solved with a color profile. Note that a color profile saves you from the endless tweaking of the monitor’s brightness and contrast settings. 

Ghosting can be so bad it steals details from the picture, while an auto-simple-HDR image can be distorted to unnatural colors.

Grey-out happens when the HDR algorithm can’t capture the full dynamic range of the scene: some parts are entirely white, some completely black, but there’s nothing in between. 

2. Adjust the settings to enable Auto HDR

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I. Click Display on the right side.display-select auto hdr not working windows 11
  2. Then, click HDR.hdr auto hdr not working windows 11
  3. Ensure Auto HDR is enabled. The Windows HDR won’t turn on issue will be fixed.hdr-on auto hdr not working windows 11

3. Check the display and HDMI port

Sometimes, the application you are watching, or the graphics mode in your game can cause text to look jumbled together.

If you are using multiple HDR-enabled displays to view or play the content, try connecting only your TV to your PC and enabling HDR streaming for that display.

Windows 11 users may experience issues when running HDR applications on HDR-supported hardware. The problem is caused by using an incompatible HDMI cable, which doesn’t support HDMI 2.0b. So if YouTube is not displaying HDR videos, this could be the reason why.

With the use of the recommended cable, it will function as expected. However, it is worth noting that if your HDR stream option is missing, it may be due to your monitor or TV not supporting this particular technology.

The use HDR not supported in Windows 11 is a problem that usually occurs due to a glitchy update or incompatible HDMI connection. If HDR stopped working right after an update, see this guide on HDR not working after Windows update for step-by-step fixes.

4. Use a display compatible with Auto HDR

To play HDR with sharp and bright colors on Windows 11, you must meet some requirements for your monitor, HDMI and DisplayPort, and more. You can’t use HDR if it’s not supported.

The built-in display needs a resolution of 1080p or more and a recommended max brightness of 300 nits.

The HDR display or TV must support HDR10 and DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI 2.0 or higher for external displays. In addition, we recommend displays that are DisplayHDR certified, such as these gaming monitors.

The Windows 11 device must have an integrated graphics card that supports PlayReady hardware digital rights management (for protected HDR content) and must have the required codecs installed for 10-bit video decoding.

What is HDR?

One of the features of Windows 11 worthy of your attention is Auto HDR, which enables your PC to apply similar brightness boosting, and color emboldening effects as HDR (High Dynamic Range) displays, but without needing to build a new display or having a monitor that supports it natively.

HDR displays show off a richer, more vibrant color palette to better use those extra pixels on higher resolution displays, but only if your game supports it. 

Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 11, will automatically adjust your videos and photos to give you the best possible picture.

If a game or app cannot take advantage of the increased color range, it will scale the picture down so it can be viewed on any device, thanks to the Auto HDR feature.

Do all games support Auto HDR?

With Auto HDR, you can see colors that previously only looked right in your imagination. Many today’s games look bright and vivid on high-end, big-screen monitors, but that’s not the case with all gaming PCs. 

With the feature enabled, you get richer colors and more visual details regardless of the game or display. Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to force non-supported games to use the feature at this stage, and there isn’t an official list you can review, either. 

It is enabled by default in supported titles, and games without support will list it as an essential feature.

Microsoft recommends that many popular DirectX 11 and 12 games will be Windows 11 Auto HDR-supported games, including Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag, Call of Duty: Ghosts, Dying Light, Far Cry 4, Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, and more.

If you want to see which games support Auto HDR, you should know that most Windows Store games are eligible. Therefore, if you don’t have an HDR-ready monitor, use our article on the best PC monitors to browse the products and get something you like.

Alternatively, you can also go through our detailed guide on what to do if Windows 10 HDR won’t turn on to get more insight on what to do. Note that the same measures apply to Windows 11 even though the guide discusses Windows 10.

How do you test an Auto HDR?

You may put the Auto HDR function to the test by turning it off initially, then playing a game or viewing a movie that you enjoy while paying attention to the color, brightness, and other visual characteristics as you do so.

After that, activate the Auto HDR option and examine the adjustment results. The different situations will result in various amounts of alteration to the image quality.

What causes Auto HDR to appear washed out?

SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) will limit the amount of light your device reaches to just that amount, which is recommended for old movie productions and low-budget programs.

On the other hand, High Dynamic Range allows videos from 10 to 1000nit, with a color gamut reaching PC3 at its highest brightness.

However, there are some instances where the HDR content displayed is not brighter than SDR. At times, its colors appear washed out or faded in Windows 11. 

Source: DPP Film Tech

The graphic shows that the exposure zones in an HDR image are not simply larger versions of the zones in an SDR rendering. Instead, the additional HDR zones are for information only and do not affect the rendering of the original zones.

Moreover, they can be used to distinguish between dark and light areas. For example, the difference between a white sheet of paper in the sun and an explosion is slight.

Both are around 100 percent white. On the other hand, brightness levels can be significantly different with a high dynamic range.

The leading causes of this issue may vary from using a non-HDR monitor, incompatible DisplayPort, or HDMI to improper Windows 11 settings, among other factors. 

Is 4K better than HDR?

The Ultra HD 4K devices are the latest in the market, offering resolutions up to four times that of Full HD. In addition, by producing a more precise picture with millions of pixels on the screen, you’ll enjoy bolder, more detailed images. 

Since each pixel on a 4K UHD device is smaller than the ones on 1080p Full HD computers, you’ll be able to sit closer to the screen and still see vivid detail.

While HDR technology has been around for years, it was not until recently that we had many high-quality content sources. 

The exponential growth of content providers is quickening every year, with Amazon’s Prime Video, Vudu, and Netflix streaming high-definition videos compatible with HDR.

Technology is not enough on its own. HDR combines 4K and High Dynamic Range (HDR) to make your computer display more luminous, colorful, and true to life. 

Whether playing games or watching your favorite film, you’ll enjoy a picture with exceptional brilliance and depth. 

In select models, Four-View (4V) technology lets you see your content from four different angles at once, which is an exciting new way to view movies and games with your friends and family.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology on Windows 11 provides a broader range of color contrast and allows you to enjoy more vibrant images, videos, and games. And for the best settings, consider calibrating HDR on Windows.

Also, check out this list of the best 4K monitors with HDMI 2.0. Some of them might surprise you.

For more information, we recommend you refer to our guide on configuring the best Windows 11 HDR settings.

Did the above methods help you resolve the issue? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

Windows Update Error 0x80244019 [SOLVED]

Keeping Windows and your apps up-to-date is critical for your system’s security. An infinite number of threats circulate on the internet, many of which cause irreparable damage to your computer.

Unfortunately, many errors can occur during the update process. In this article, we’ll focus on the Windows Update error 0x80244019 and show you how to fix it.

Note that users have also experienced this error in Windows 7.

How can I fix the Windows Update error 0x80244019?

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. When Settings app opens, go to Update & Security section.
    Windows 7 update error 0x80244019
  3. Select Troubleshoot from the left pane. In the right pane select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter button.
    0x80244019 Windows Server 2016
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the troubleshooter.

According to users, sometimes you might be able to fix this problem simply by running Windows Update troubleshooter.

As you know, Windows 10 has a wide range of troubleshooters available, and they are specially designed to automatically fix common problems.

If you’re having error 0x80244019 on your PC, you just need to run the Windows Update troubleshooter by following the above steps.

Once the troubleshooter is finished, check if the problem is still there.

2. Change Windows update options

  1. Open the Settings app and navigate to Update & Security section.
  2. When Windows Update window opens, click on Advanced options.
    Windows 7 update error 0x80244019
  3. Now turn off Give me updates for other Microsoft products when I update Windows.
    0x80244019 Windows Server 2016

According to users, sometimes your options can cause error 0x80244019 to appear.

If you can’t update your PC due to this error, you might have to change your settings a bit. You can do that by following these steps from above.

After turning off this option, the issue should be resolved and you’ll be able to update Windows without any issues.

3. Check your antivirus

According to users, sometimes your antivirus can interfere with your system and cause error 0x80244019 to appear.

To fix the problem, it’s recommended to disable certain antivirus features and check if that solves the issue.

If that doesn’t work, your next step would be to completely disable your antivirus. In the worst-case scenario, you might have to uninstall your antivirus and check if that solves the issue.

If removing the antivirus solves the problem, you should consider switching to different antivirus software.

4. Reset Windows Update components

  1. Press Windows Key + X to open Win + X menu. Now select Command Prompt (Admin) or Powershell (Admin) from the list.
    0x80244019 Windows Server 2016
  2. When Command Prompt opens, run the following commands:
  • net stop wuauserv
  • net stop cryptSvc
  • net stop bits
  • net stop msiserver
  • ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  • ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old
  • net start wuauserv
  • net start cryptSvc
  • net start bits
  • net start msiserver

In order to download the updates, certain Windows Update components need to be running. If these components aren’t running, you might encounter error 0x80244019.

However, you can fix this problem simply by resetting these components. To do that, you just need to follow these steps describe in the lines above.

After running these commands the necessary components will be reset and the issue should be resolved.

If you don’t want to run these commands manually, you can always create a Windows Update reset script that will automatically reset the necessary components for you.

5. Perform a clean boot

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter msconfig. Now press Enter or click OK.
    Windows 7 update error 0x80244019
  2. On the Services tab select the Hide all Microsoft services check box > click Disable all.
    0x80244019 Windows Server 2016
  3. On the Startup tab > click Open Task Manager.
    Windows 7 update error 0x80244019
  4. Right-click each startup item and then click Disable.
    0x80244019 Windows Server 2016
  5. Close Task Manager > click OK > restart the computer.
    Windows 7 update error 0x80244019

Third-party applications can sometimes interfere with your system and cause error 0x80244019 and other update errors to appear. To fix the problem, it’s advised to perform a Clean boot.

If you’re not familiar, in Clean boot state your PC will start without any third-party applications or services.

This is a great feature, especially if you’re concerned that a third-party application is interfering with your system. To perform a clean boot, perform the steps that were described a bit earlier.

After disabling all startup applications and services, try to install the update again and check if the issue is still there.

6. Disconnect all USB devices

In some rare cases, your USB devices can cause error 0x80244019 to appear. If you’re having this problem, it’s advised to disconnect all your USB devices from your PC.

This includes external hard drives, USB flash drives, gamepads, printers, etc.

Basically, you need to disconnect all devices except your keyboard and mouse. After doing that, try to install the update again and check if the problem is still there.

7. Install the update manually

  1. Go to Windows Update Catalog website.
  2. Enter the KB number in the search field.
  3. List of matching updates will now appear. Select the update that matches your system architecture and download it.
    Windows 7 update error 0x80244019

If you can’t download the latest updates due to error 0x80244019, you might want to try installing the update manually.

This isn’t that hard, and in order to do it, first you need to find the KB number of the update. To do that, visit the Windows Update section and look for the KB number of the update.

Once you find the KB number, you need to do perform the steps from above.

Once you download the update, install it and check if that solves the issue.

Keep in mind that this method won’t fix the core problem, instead, you’ll just avoid the error message by downloading and installing the update on your own.

8. Install optional updates

Windows 10 installs updates automatically, but sometimes you might encounter a problematic update. In order to prevent the update from installing, you need to block it with a special tool.

If you want to know more about blocking Windows Updates, we wrote a special article about it, so you should check it out.

Although blocking updates can help you with certain problems, several users reported that hiding optional updates can cause this problem to appear.

Therefore, if you have any optional updates hidden, be sure to unblock and install them.

After doing that, this problem should be resolved and you’ll be able to install the updates without any problems.

9. Perform an in-place upgrade

  1. Download Media Creation Tool and run it.
  2. Select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.
  3. Wait while the setup downloads the necessary files.
  4. Select Download and install updates (recommended).
  5. Wait while setup downloads the updates.
  6. Follow the instructions on the screen until you reach Ready to install screen. Click on Change what to keep.
  7. Make sure that Keep personal files and apps is selected. Now click Next.
  8. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.

To fix this problem you might have to perform an in-place upgrade.

By doing so, you’ll install the latest version of Windows, with all current updates, while keeping your files and applications intact.

This process is relatively simple, and you can perform it by following the steps from above.

Once the setup is finished, you’ll have the latest version of Windows installed and the issue should be resolved.

Update error 0x80244019 can be problematic since it can leave your system vulnerable. Speaking of this error message, here are some related issues that users reported:

  • 0x80244019 Windows Server 2016 – This issue can affect Windows Server 2016, and if you have this problem, you might be able to fix it using one of our solutions.
  • Windows 7 update error 0x80244019 – Many users reported this issue on older versions of Windows. Even if you don’t use Windows 10, you should know that most of our solutions can b applied to older versions of Windows as well.

We hope the solutions listed above helped you fix Windows 10 update error 0x80244019.

If you’ve come across other workarounds to fix this problem, you can list the troubleshooting steps in the comment section below.

Windows 11 Registry Hacks: Best Ones to Try in 2026

Now that Windows 11 is almost a reality, many users are trying to get ahead of the launch, by finding all sorts of ways to enhance or improve their operating systems.

You should keep in mind that other new Registry entries will not perform any noticeable behavior. The main reason for this is that this leaked Windows 11 build is just an early preview of the new OS.

If you’re interested in finding out more information about Windows 11, and also find out what other people think about the upcoming release, we have conducted an extensive survey on the topic.

6056 readers responded to our queries covering the possible name of the OS, if and how people are inclined to upgrade, and also other interesting ideas.

The responders were mostly located in the US, but the UK, India, Canada, and Australian readers are close to the same numbers. In total, users that took the survey are located in 152 countries around the world.

Registry hacks for Windows 11 UI elements

Upon the release of this new OS build, many users liked the Windows 11 Start Menu, while others didn’t really appreciate the change and wished they could switch back to the Windows 10 version.

Well, you should know that Microsoft added a Start_ShowClassicMode Registry value which allows users to enable what they call Classic Mode, that uses the Windows 10 Start Menu

In order to modify this registry value, you should create a DWORD 32-bit value named Start_ShowClassicMode under the following path:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\ "Start_ShowClassicMode"

Possible DWORD 32-bit settings for the Start_ShowClassicMode value are:

0 = Use the new Windows 11 Start Menu
1 = Enable Windows 10 ‘Classic’ Start Menu

Another change that has been on users’ minds is the size of the actual taskbar, which for many is either too small, or too big.

When configuring the TaskbarSi value, users can specify whether they want to show a small, medium, or large taskbar.

If you want to alter this registry value, you would create a DWORD 32-bit value named TaskbarSi under the following path:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\ Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\ "TaskbarSi"

Possible DWORD 32-bit settings for the TaskbarSi value are:

0 = Small
1 = Medium
2 = Large

If you didn’t already know, Windows 11 now makes it possible for you to center or left align the Start button and pinned taskbar programs on the taskbar.

In order to control the alignment of the Windows 11 taskbar, Microsoft introduced a new TaskbarAl Registry value. Modifying this registry value, means creating a DWORD 32-bit value named TaskbarAl under the following path:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\ Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\ "TaskbarAl"

However, you can perform almost similar changes to the Start menu in Windows 11 even without resorting to the input of these Registry hacks. Check out the information by reading our extensive article.

This is how you enable or disable the Windows 11 Snap Assist flyout

Microsoft’s new operating system introduces a redesigned Snap Assist feature, where if you hover over the maximize button, you can see a flyout containing four predefined Windows snap layouts.

If you just want to disable this feature, or have already disabled it and realized you want it again, the Registry command is:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\ "EnableSnapAssistFlyout"

Possible DWORD 32-bit settings for the EnableSnapAssistFlyout value are:

0 = Disable
1 = Enable

Also keep in mind that for the changes you perform, by using these Registry hacks, to take effect you must restart your PC.

How are enjoying the leaked version of Windows 11 so far? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

What Is Cryptographic Services & How to Fix Its High CPU Usage

Is your PC performance slow or are you coming across frequent system crashes? This could very well be because a service is eating up most of your CPU resources. The service that we are talking about is the cryptographic service, which has been troubling Windows 10 users for quite some time.

Users are looking to fix the cryptographic services’ high CPU usage issue but in vain. Fortunately, in this guide, we have some effective solutions lined up for you that will help you resolve the service host cryptographic service’s high CPU usage problem on your Windows PC.

What is Cryptographic Service?

Before we get ahead with the solutions to resolve the cryptographic service high CPU usage problem, let us first understand what is this cryptographic service.

The cryptographic service in your Windows 10 PC is an official service by Microsoft that performs the action of encrypting and decrypting the data as and when it is accessed.

The reason why users are reporting service host cryptographic services high CPU usage problem is that the encryption software runs an algorithm to secure the data file and this process requires a lot of resources.

How can I fix the Crytpograhic Service high CPU usage issue?

Here are a few preliminary solutions that we would suggest you apply right away:

  • Close all programs and restart your PC. This will make sure that all the system files are reloaded from scratch which might have been missed during the previous session.
  • Check if you have any pending Windows updates ready to install. Often a new update fixes the bug related to a previous version.
  • Scan your PC for viruses or malware as very often a virus can camouflage themselves as an essential process and slow down your PC by running the background.

Now, let us check out the advanced solutions and possibly fix the high CPU usage caused by the cryptographic service.

1. Rename the Catroot2 folder

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for the command prompt and run it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command to temporarily disable the cryptographic service and press Enter. net stop cryptsvc
  4. Wait till you see a message on cmd the cryptographic service was stopped successfully.
  5. Type the below command to rename the unwanted catroot2 folder to oldcatroot2 and press Enter. ren %systemroot%\System32\Catroot2 oldcatroot2
  6. After a few seconds, type the below command and press Enter. net start cryptsvc
  7. Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the below path. C:\Windows\System32\catroot2
  8. Open the folder F750E6C3-38EE-11D1-85E5-00C04FC295EE and delete any file inside it that starts with tmp.
  9. Restart your PC and check if this fixes the issue or not.

2. Clean boot your PC

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type msconfig and press Enter.
  3. Click on the Services tab.
  4. Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services.
  5. Click on Disable all.
  6. Switch to the Startup tab.
  7. Click Open Task Manager.
  8. Switch to the Startup tab.
  9. Disable each of the enabled startup items one by one.
  10. Close Task Manager.
  11. Reboot your PC and check if this resolves the issue or not.

Clean boot will start your PC with a minimal set of drivers and startup items. Only essential programs will load. You can now check if the cryptographic service was having any issues with another process that was ultimately causing high CPU usage.

3. Run SFC Scan and DISM

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for the command prompt and run it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannow
  4. After the SFC Scan process completes, type the below command and press Enter.DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Restart your PC.

We have a guide to help restore and repair corrupt system files on your Windows PC. It contains a bunch of effective solutions to fix system-file-related issues.

Otherwise, you can also use a dedicated third-party tool that can repair corrupt system files with just a few clicks.

It will help scan your PC, find new files to replace the corrupt ones, fix DLL-related issues, fix BSOD errors, and much more.

4. Reset your PC

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type recovery and open Recovery options.
  3. Click on the Get started button under the Reset this PC option.
  4. Choose the Keep my files option to only remove apps and settings but save all your personal files.
  5. Follow the onscreen prompts till your PC is reset.

This should be performed only as a last resort if none of the above solutions work for you. Chances are the cryptographic service itself is faulty, and a reset would help replace the file and also resolve the issue of high CPU usage.

We also have a bunch of solutions to fix the high CPU usage issue that can trigger without any reason. In such a case a dedicated virus infection or malicious remover software can come in handy, and we would recommend you make use of TotalAV.

There is also a chance that the cryptographic service itself isn’t causing the high CPU usage issue, but the other background processes are conflicting with it and causing the problem. For such situations, you can refer to our guide on how you can fix too many background processes running on your PC.

Before you leave, you might want to visit our Windows Cryptographic Service Provider reported an error guide for more useful information.

That is it from us in this guide. Let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions helped you resolve the problem.

8 Best ePub Readers for Windows 11 and 10 in 2026

Tired of searching for the perfect ePub reader? We’ve got you. Whether you’re into free tools or premium features, this list has something for every Windows user.

Let’s skip the small talk and get straight to the best options out there.

What are the best ePub readers for Windows 11?

Icecream E-book Reader – Intuitive book management

icecream ebook reader

Icecream E-book Reader is sleek, straightforward, and perfect for organizing digital libraries. It supports formats like ePub, MOBI, and FB2.

The interface is intuitive, with features like full-screen mode, bookmarking, and automatic page tracking.

We like its Translate tool and note-taking capabilities. The app feels modern and hassle-free, making it ideal for casual and serious readers alike.

Pros:

  • Simple, user-friendly design
  • Supports multiple eBook formats
  • Translation and note-taking tools

Cons:

  • No cloud syncing
  • Limited customization options
Icecream E-book Reader

Icecream E-book Reader

Try this excellent ePub Reader and manage your e-books better.
Free Trial Visit Website

Adobe Digital Editions – Great text highlighter

Adobe digital editions

Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) makes reading effortless across devices. It syncs eBooks purchased on one device to all others with ADE installed.

The text highlighter and customizable interface add value for readers who like control.

We think ADE shines in its simplicity and smooth syncing, though it feels a bit dated compared to competitors.

Pros:

  • Free and easy to use
  • Cross-device syncing
  • Access to a vast eBook library

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features
  • Outdated design
Adobe Digital Editions

Adobe Digital Editions

Increase your reading experience by using this outstanding tool.
Free Trial Visit Website

FBReader – Cross-platform reader

FBReader

FBReader is the minimalist’s dream. It’s a fast, lightweight ePub reader supporting multiple formats like MOBI and RTF.

It works seamlessly on Windows and other platforms like Linux and iOS.

We like its simplicity and stability. While it’s not fancy, it gets the job done perfectly for basic reading needs. If you need a free ePUB reader for Windows, this might be the right choice.

Pros:

  • Free and cross-platform
  • Very lightweight
  • Simple library syncing

Cons:

  • Few advanced features
  • Interface looks dated

⇒ Get FBReader

Epubor Ultimate – Straightforward reader

Epubor ultimate

Epubor Ultimate is a powerhouse for managing eBooks. It converts eBooks to formats like ePub or PDF and removes DRM restrictions. This is a lifesaver if you’ve ever been frustrated with device compatibility. We like how straightforward the interface is, though it’s pricier than most readers.

Looking to convert Kindle books to ePub format for easier reading? Check out this guide on how to convert Kindle to ePub: convert Kindle to ePub.

Pros:

  • Converts eBooks to multiple formats
  • Removes DRM restrictions
  • Easy-to-use interface

Cons:

  • Basic reader compared to competitors
  • Paid software
Epubor Ultimate

Epubor Ultimate

Try this advanced-shape eBook tool and enjoy reading your books more comfortably.

Calibre – Very easy to use

Calibre

Calibre is the veteran of eBook management. It organizes libraries, converts formats, and even lets you edit metadata.

We find its open-source roots inspiring, offering powerful features at zero cost.

However, it’s not the prettiest app, and beginners might feel overwhelmed at first, but it’s still a great free ePUB reader for Windows.

Pros:

  • Free and open-source
  • Converts and edits eBooks
  • Powerful library management

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve
  • Clunky interface

⇒ Get Calibre

Kobo – Built-in dictionary

kobo - built-in dictionary

Kobo offers a robust ePub reader with a built-in store of 5+ million books. It includes tools like a dictionary, bookmarks, and annotations.

The app encourages community engagement with user reviews and ratings.

We enjoy its polished interface and the ability to buy books directly, but it can be slow on older devices.

Pros:

  • Access to millions of books
  • Built-in dictionary and notes
  • Sleek interface

Cons:

  • Requires an account for many features
  • Sluggish on older devices

⇒ Get Kobo

Neat Reader – Data synchronization

Neat reader

Neat Reader combines simplicity with cross-device syncing. The free version handles most reading needs, while the paid version adds 10GB cloud storage and advanced settings. We think its clean design and ease of use are standout features. However, ads in the free version can be distracting.

Pros:

  • Cross-device syncing
  • Simple and modern design
  • Free version available

Cons:

  • Cloud features locked behind a paywall
  • Ads in the free version

⇒ Get Neat Reader

Cover – Limitless library

Cover specializes in comics and manga, supporting ePub, CBR, and CBZ formats.

Its shelving system organizes your collection seamlessly, and the app remembers where you left off.

We love its manga-friendly right-to-left reading mode. However, it’s not ideal for regular eBooks.

Pros:

  • Great for comics and manga
  • Organizes collections neatly
  • Supports OneDrive and Dropbox integration

Cons:

  • In-app purchases for additional features
  • Focused on comics, not general eBooks

⇒ Get Cover

If you want to get the most out of your Windows 11 computer, there are particular apps that you should get. This is especially important if you want to keep your computer’s performance at its best and not have it degrade.

Cover comic book reader

FAQs

What is an ePub reader?

An ePub reader is software designed to open and display ePub files, which are a popular format for eBooks. These readers allow you to view, navigate, and sometimes annotate eBooks.

What are the best ePub readers for Windows?

Popular options include Calibre, Adobe Digital Editions, Sumatra PDF, and Microsoft Edge. Each offers unique features like customization, library management, and advanced formatting support.

Can I read ePub files on Windows without installing a reader?

Yes, some browsers, like Microsoft Edge, allow you to open ePub files directly without additional software. However, dedicated ePub readers often provide better navigation and features for eBooks.

Are ePub readers free to use?

Yes, many ePub readers, such as Calibre and Sumatra PDF, are free to use. Some paid versions offer extra features like advanced annotations, cloud syncing, or better formatting options.

You may also be interested to know which virtual machines work the best on Windows 11. Virtual machines are useful if you want to try out the latest features of Windows 11 or the beta version, but don’t want to deal with bugs or glitches. One of the best ones VMware Workstation for its high versatility and how easy it is to set up.

And for fun, you should download a photo viewer. A good photo viewer does more than view pictures, but also comes with great features like editing tools and taking screenshots. In fact, the Photo viewer app that comes with Windows 11 natively has a ton of features. But if you prefer a third-party app with more, an app like Movavi is the way to go.

Besides, you might be interested in the best ways to open EPUB files in Windows 11. You can also use Any eBook Converter to convert them into various formats.

Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions on other Windows 11 apps. Also, leave comments about guides that you’d like to see or information on other Windows 11 features or list guides like this.

Fix: Sunset Overdrive for PC Won’t Launch

Sunset Overdrive is a highly-rated third-person shooter game for Windows 10. However, some players have said they can’t launch the Overdrive Windows game. The game doesn’t start for those players when they click play. Consequently, those players can’t play Sunset Overdrive.

If you are looking for a guide to help resolve the Sunset Overdrive PC won’t launch issue, then we will give you a bunch of solutions to fix the problem. Let us get right into it.

Why won’t Sunset Overdrive launch on my PC?

We did some research and found some common reasons that prevent Sunset Overdrive to launch on your PC:

  • Your PC doesn’t meet the game’s PC requirements: Before purchasing Sunset Overdrive, double-check that your PC meets the game’s system requirements.
  • Antivirus is blocking the game: The antivirus on your PC might be stopping the game from launching. Some players have confirmed that Avast, Bitdefender, and AVG antivirus utilities blocked Sunset Overdrive from starting on their PCs.
  • Third-party programs can also conflict: Apps such as VPN, firewall, P2P, FTP, and IP filtering software can also cause launch issues for games.
  • There is a file integrity issue for the game: If certain files are missing or you have a Sunset Overdrive PC corrupted save, the game probably won’t start.

So, there are a few ways you might be able to fix a Sunset Overdrive game that’s not launching. This is how you can fix Sunset Overdrive when it won’t launch on your PC.

What can I do if Sunset Overdrive doesn’t launch on my PC?

Here are a few fixes that we would suggest you apply before advancing with the troubleshooting methods:

  • Whether you use Windows Security or any other antivirus software, you should disable it. After you’ve done that, try playing Sunset Overdrive again. If that fix works, try adding Steam and Sunset Overdrive to your antivirus utility’s exceptions list.
  • Alternatively, you could uninstall the third-party antivirus utility and rely on Windows Security instead.
  • Close your launcher, relaunch it back again, and check if this fixes the error.
  • Restart your PC and check if this resolves the issue.

Now, let us check out the advanced troubleshooting solutions and possibly fix the Sunset Overdrive PC won’t launch error.

1. Verify the integrity of game files

  1. Launch the Steam client on your Windows PC.
  2. Click Library.
  3. Right-click the Sunset Overdrive game in your Steam library and select a Properties option.
  4. Select the Local Files tab.
  5. Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  6. Wait for the file validation process to finish, and then click the Close button.

Here we have shown the process for a different game, but the steps for verifying the integrity of the game files remain the same on Steam for all games. This will also work when Sunset Overdrive PC multiplayer is not working.

2. Update your PC’s graphics card driver

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Open Device Manager.
  3. Expand Display adapters.
    Device Manager sunset overdrive pc won't launch
  4. Right-click on your display adapter and select an Update driver option.
  5. Select the Search automatically for drivers option.
  6. Your system will search the internet for updated drivers and will prompt you to install them once detected.

While the above requires manually expanding each driver and scanning for updated drivers, you can automate the process using third-party driver updater software.

We would like you to use Outbyte Driver Updater. You can easily update all of your drivers in just a few clicks, create driver backups, schedule a driver scan, and do much more.

Outbyte Driver Updater

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3. Disable all third-party startup programs and services

  1. Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type msconfig and click OK.
  3. Click Selective Startup on the General tab.
  4. Uncheck (deselect) the checkbox for the Load startup items setting.
  5. Ensure that you have checked the Load system services and Use original boot configuration checkboxes.
  6. Click Services tab.
  7. Select the Hide all Microsoft services checkbox.
  8. Click on the Disable all button.
  9. Don’t forget to click the Apply button.
  10. Click OK to close the MSConfig utility’s window.
  11. Click the Restart button if a dialog box appears.
  12. Try launching Sunset Overdrive after the Windows restart.

4. Reinstall Sunset Overdrive

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Select Sunset Overdrive in the programs list.
  5. Press the Uninstall button.
  6. Restart your PC.
  7. Launch Steam.
  8. Click the Install button for the game on the Library tab.
  9. Alternatively, you can reinstall the Sunset Overdrive UWP game app by downloading it from its Microsoft Store page.

You can also uninstall Sunset Overdrive with third-party uninstaller software. A third-party uninstaller like IObit Uninstaller 11 Free will erase all leftover residual files from uninstalled software.

⇒ Get IObit Uninstaller 

Insomniac Games has a support service you can contact about Sunset Overdrive issues. Click the Contact Us button on the Insomniac Games website to open a request submission form. Then fill out that form, and press the Submit button.

Steam users can also try contacting the Steam support services for potential fixes. You can contact that service from the Steam Support page when signed into your account. Alternatively, you can post on Steam’s Sunset Overdrive forum about the game not starting.

The resolutions above will likely kick-start Sunset Overdrive for most players. So, those potential fixes are worth a try when Sunset Overdrive won’t launch. Some of the resolutions in our Steam game not launching guide might also help fix that game when it doesn’t start.

10 Best Free Screensavers for Windows 11 (2026 Edition)

The right free Windows 11 screensavers can turn your screen into a functional clock, a work of art, or even a trippy animation. Screensavers started to prevent burn-in, but today they’re more about aesthetics and customization, and Windows still supports them, even if they’re tucked away in settings.

Let’s check out the best screensavers you can use on your Windows 11 PC.

What are the best free screen savers for Windows 11?

1. Fliqlo

fliqlo winows 11 flip clock screensaver

Fliqlo is a modern take on a retro flip clock. It displays the time in large, animated numbers — perfect for a clean desktop or secondary monitor. You can customize the size, choose between 12- or 24-hour formats, and adjust brightness. As a screensaver app for Windows 11, it’s one of the simplest yet most elegant options out there.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Fliqlo
  • ✅ Pros: Sleek, minimal, built-in time display
  • ❌ Cons: Requires a minor install workaround

2. Electric Sheep

This unique animated screen saver is part art project, part dreamscape. Electric Sheep blends fractal animations created by users worldwide into ever-changing visuals. It downloads new animations when online, making your Windows 11 screensaver fresh every time.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Electric Sheep
  • ✅ Pros: Stunning visuals, auto-refreshes
  • ❌ Cons: Uses bandwidth and CPU; limited offline use

3. Lattice

lattice windows 11 screensaver

Lattice recreates the iconic green Matrix code rain, with customizable speed, density, colors, and fonts. It’s an open-source, lightweight option perfect for fans of sci-fi aesthetics and desktop screensaver themes that feel alive.

  • Compatibility: Fully works on Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Lattice
  • ✅ Pros: Custom fonts, smooth animation, low system load
  • ❌ Cons: Requires manual installation

Want more like this? Check out our 3D screensavers for Windows 10 . Many work great on Windows 11 too.


4. Polar Clock

polar clock screensaver

Polar Clock displays the current time using colorful, rotating arcs. It’s minimalist but informative — a great fit for productivity setups or anyone who wants a unique time-telling desktop screensaver.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Polar Clock
  • ✅ Pros: Visually engaging, real-time updates
  • ❌ Cons: No background themes or deep settings

5. Skyrocket

skyrocket screensaver

This one fills your screen with randomized, colorful fireworks. It’s simple, festive, and doesn’t strain your system. A great pick if you’re looking for cool screensavers with a celebration vibe and instant impact.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Skyrocket
  • ✅ Pros: Bright visuals, runs smoothly
  • ❌ Cons: No settings or sound

6. Really Slick Screensavers

really slick screensavers

This classic bundle includes multiple 3D and high performance screensavers, such as flowing ribbons, space tunnels, and bouncing particles. While some effects are dated, they still look impressive — especially on 4K displays.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11 (some may need compatibility mode)
  • 🔗 Download Really Slick
  • ✅ Pros: Multiple effects, customizable
  • ❌ Cons: May crash on newer GPUs

Explore even more free 3D screensavers for Windows.


7. Plane9

plane 9 windows 11 screensaver

Plane9 is a music visualizer and screensaver app for Windows 11. It offers 250+ scenes that react in real time to music or audio input. Although development has stopped, it still runs well and supports deep screensaver customization.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Plane9
  • ✅ Pros: Audio-reactive, rich scene variety
  • ❌ Cons: No recent updates

8. Apple TV Aerial Views (Port)

Get Apple’s famous aerial footage of cities, oceans, and landscapes on your PC. The visuals are shot in 4K and cycle smoothly , ideal if you want 4K screensavers with cinematic flair. Setup requires a bit more effort, but the results are worth it.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Aerial Views Port
  • ✅ Pros: Stunning resolution, natural transitions
  • ❌ Cons: Requires extra codecs, larger file size

9. System 47

starfield 47

This themed screensaver is based on Star Trek’s LCARS system. It replicates futuristic ship dashboards and adds subtle animation and sounds. It’s a niche pick, but one of the most immersive Microsoft screensavers available for fans.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download System 47
  • ✅ Pros: Fandom appeal, authentic design
  • ❌ Cons: Dated graphics, no broad appeal

10. Briblo

briblo screensaver

Briblo is a LEGO-inspired puzzle where blocks fall and stack in colorful patterns. It’s slightly interactivee, moving the mouse lets you shift pieces. This free and creative Microsoft screensaver is great for casual setups or shared family PCs.

  • Compatibility: Windows 11
  • 🔗 Download Briblo (MS Store)
  • ✅ Pros: Interactive, kid-friendly
  • ❌ Cons: No time display or advanced visuals

How do I install a screensaver on Windows 11?

  1. Download the screensaver file (usually .SCR or EXE).
  2. Run or move it to C:\Windows\System32.
  3. Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen > Screen Saver.
  4. Choose it from the list and hit Apply.

Wrapping up

Looking to go even further with desktop personalization? Check out our Windows 10 S wallpapers download guide, many backgrounds pair beautifully with your screensavers.

You will get more functionality using premium screensavers, but the screensavers discussed in this article are the best free options you will have for a Windows 11 PC.

If you want specific 3D screensavers, read our 5+ best 3D screensavers for Windows 10/11 guide. Need more screensavers? Don’t miss out guide on the best screensaver clocks you can use.

How Much RAM Does Windows 11 Use?

Does Windows 11 consume more RAM? It’s a question that requires an in-depth understanding of the idea, the computer’s use, and several other critical factors. In general, Windows 11 does use more memory, though it might not be the case for everyone.

If you had a PC running Windows 10 and recently upgraded to Windows 11, the RAM consumption might be higher. But why is that, and can you reduce the memory used in the latest iteration? Let’s find out the answer to these.

Why does Windows 11 consume so much RAM?

Here are a few reasons Windows 11 consumes so much RAM on your PC:

  • More features – Windows 11 is a feature-loaded OS, and these are bound to use more RAM than the previous iteration. But it also ensures a better and safer user experience.
  • A higher number of built-in programs – The RAM consumption increases with the number of programs running. And since the latest OS has more built-in programs, referred to as the bloatware in Windows 11, it uses higher memory.
  • Graphics – When all the visual effects are enabled, the OS will consume higher resources. Though, you may disable animations in Windows 11 to reduce this.

How much RAM do I need for Windows 11?

If we were to look at the system requirements for Windows 11, the latest iteration requires a minimum of 4 GB Random Access Memory to install on a device. Remember, it’s the minimum requirement for just running the OS.

does windows 11 use more ram
Image Source: Microsoft

Launch a few programs on a PC running Windows 11 with 4 GB of memory, and the device will slow down, apps may start crashing, and in the worst case, you won’t be able to use it at all. So, when upgrading to the latest iteration, ensure the PC has at least 8 GB RAM.

How much RAM does Windows 11 use when idle?

Based on feedback from users, our reader, and through in-depth research, it seems like Windows 11 uses around 2.5-3 GB of memory in an idle state. But remember, what you consider an idle state is not the same for the PC.

It still has several background processes and services running. More so, the startup programs are launched as soon as Windows boots and will consume some resources.

Is 8GB of RAM enough for Windows 11?

8GB of memory should be good when running Windows 11 and a few simple programs and browsers. But, for resource-intensive tasks like gaming or running editing apps, you will need more RAM.

Task Manager on a PC running Windows 11 with 16 GB RAM

Google Chrome, for instance, uses a lot of memory, so you might consider switching to a lightweight browser. Other similar changes, too, will help bring the RAM consumption in check.

Windows 11 RAM usage vs. Windows 10

Windows 11 does use more RAM than Windows 10, and it’s due to more built-in programs and features. It can be reduced, but we don’t recommend terminating the critical processes or disabling services vital for the effective functioning of the OS.

What can I do if Windows 11 consumes more RAM?

Though the problem is not encountered by many, you can quickly fix high RAM usage in Windows 11 if that is the case.

So, if you were earlier wondering whether Windows 11 does use more resources, the answer is Yes. And you now know the reasons behind it as well as ways to reduce RAM usage.

Also, you can take advantage of the best RAM cleaners to optimize your computer and fix any issues in no time. Another quick trick would be to increase the page file in Windows 11.

Feel free to let us know how to prevent Windows 11 from hogging your memory in the comments below.

We Answer: Why is Crypto-Mining Software Flagged as Malware?

Bitcoin is a digital currency (cryptocurrency) that you can exchange for products, services, and even other currencies. More and more users are utilizing crypto-mining software to generate bitcoins for themselves. However, some antivirus utilities flag legitimate crypto-mining software as malware.

Legitimate crypto-mining apps are those users knowingly download and install on their PCs. Those mining apps enable users to generate bitcoins by completing verified transaction blocks with their PCs. You can check out our guide that lists some of the best Bitcoin-mining software available for free.

What is Cryptojacking malware?

Cryptojackers are miners who hijack other users’ PC system resources for the purpose of crypto-mining. These cryptojackers do that with cryptojacking malware. Crypotojacking malware secretly installs malware or virus in your PC (sometimes via email attachments) and use your system resources for crypto mining.

Thus, cryptojacking malware basically exploits other PCs’ system resources to generate bitcoins. CPU utilization can get very high as a consequence.

Your PC might become very slow when there’s cryptojacking malware on it, and you won’t be able to understand the reason behind this since the malware is installed without your consent.

Why does my antivirus flag my crypto-mining software?

Antivirus utilities sometimes flag legitimate crypto-mining software as malware because of the increasingly prevalent cryptojacking. Cryptojacking malware has similar executables to legit crypto-mining software.

Therefore, even the best antivirus software finds it hard to distinguish between them. Some antivirus warning flags do not report the crypto-mining software as a threat, but simply inform that the program is related to mining.

You may get terms such as CoinMiner, Cryptocoin miner, or Bitcoin miner in the warning message.

How can I stop antivirus software from flagging my crypto-mining app?

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for Windows Security and open it.
  3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  4. Under Virus & threat protection settings, click on Manage settings.
  5. Under Exclusions, click Add or remove exclusions.
  6. Press the Add an exclusion button.
  7. Select the Process option.
  8. Enter the full path of your crypto-mining software (including its EXE file) in the process name box.
  9. Click the Add button.

Most antivirus utilities include exception (exclusion) lists. The exclusion list features in antivirus software enable users to select certain programs, files, or folders to exclude from antivirus scanning. The antivirus utility will not flag anything on its exclusion list.

We have used the Windows Security antivirus tool that comes built-in with Windows OS to show how you can add your crypto-mining program to its exclusions list. You can do the same with any of the third-party antivirus tools that you have on your PC.

How can I scan and remove genuine cryptojacking malware?

1. Use a third-party malware removal utility

  1. Download Malwarebytes from its official website.
  2. Install it on your PC.
  3. Click on the Settings icon.
  4. Switch to the Security tab.
  5. Toggle on Scan for rootkits option.
  6. Close the Settings window.
  7. Click on the Scan button.
  8. Once the scan completes, it will display if it has detected any malware, virus, etc.
  9. Hit the Quarantine button to remove all malware from your PC.

If your antivirus utility flags something you don’t recognize, that something could be cryptojacking malware. Malwarebytes is a highly-rated third-party utility for purging malware. Malwarebytes Pro includes a real-time scanner, but you can manually scan with the freeware alternative.

Scanning and purging malware with Malwarebytes is so simple. All you need to do is click its Scan button. Malwarebytes will then scan your PC and list anything detected and quarantined. You can click Total items in quarantine, select quarantined items, and press the Delete button.

⇒ Get Malwarebytes

2. Use Microsoft’s malware scanner

  1. Download Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool.
  2. Launch it on your PC.
  3. Click Next.
  4. Select the type of scan you would like to perform.
  5. Click Next.
  6. The program will begin scanning for malicious programs on your PC.
  7. The result will indicate if the program detected any issues with your PC or not and will prompt you to take necessary action.

You can also make use of Microsoft’s Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool. This utility will scan for and automatically remove detected malware. It’s simple to utilize and also includes three different scanning options.

⇒ Get Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool

So, don’t be overly surprised if your PC’s antivirus utility flags your crypto-mining software, as it’s not unusual for false-positive flagging to arise for mining apps. You can simply set up an antivirus exception for your crypto miner. If you don’t recognize a flagged app, however, run a malware scan.

If you are interested in crypto trading, then we would recommend you check out our guide on the best VPNs that you can use for crypto trading.

For users who trade in cryptos, keeping up with the live prices is an essential task for which they can check out our guide which lists some of the best apps for cryptocurrency live prices.

5 Best Unblocked Browsers With No Download

An aunblocked browser that requires no download is essential when you’re not able to access online content and websites because of restrictions imposed on such websites and content.

There are also browsers to open blocked sites that require you to download apps. But this guide will cover unblocked browsers that do not need to be downloaded.

What are the best unblocked browsers with no download?

Proxyboost.net

Proxyboost is our best pick of unlocked browsers you can use online without downloading any apps or software. It is an American proxy site for surfing the internet anonymously.

However, users can access the web proxy browser by launching the Proxyboost URL on any browser. Then, input the URL of the restricted or blocked website you want to access and click on the surf now button to unblock the site.

Also, Proxyboost is free and doesn’t require you to subscribe to its services.

⇒ Use Proxyboost.net

2. DontFilter.us – The most secure choice

dontfilter.us

DontFilter is an anonymous web browser that is accessible with no download. It is the most secure unlocked browser that allows users to browse through websites that aren’t available for every user.

Furthermore, it allows you to surf the internet anonymously without being noticed or saving any record that you visited the site. It is easy to navigate and is accessible by inputting its URL in a native browser.

Also, it is one of the best unblocked browsers for school and extracurricular activities. Users can access restricted online content without needing to install a third-party app. Its service is free and requires no subscription.

⇒ Use DontFilter.us

3. Zend2.com – Great for streaming and social media

Zend2.com

Zend2.com is the best-unblocked browser that uses a proxy server to browse the internet and doesn’t require any download. It is best for streaming and watching restricted movies and video content.

Moreover, it uses a secure server to access blocked websites and can also work for other blocked online content. Likewise, you can access it by launching the proxy server on your browser and accessing the blocked site.

Furthermore, it is easy to navigate and is free.

⇒ Use Zend2.com

4. UnblockMyWeb.com – The fastest browser

unblockmyweb.com

For users who need a fast and secure unblocked browser to access blocked or restricted sites, UnblockMyWeb is the best choice.

Moreover, it is a free proxy server hosting service that unblocks all restrictions on online content that may stop you from accessing it.

Also, it is ideal for school-related purposes and is an unblocking tool for watching videos online.

⇒ Use UnblockMyWeb.com

5. Replit – Best anonymous unblocked browser

Replit is one of the most convenient ways of opening a blocked website because it starts in a web app.

It actually opens a Python script that triggers a Firefox browser. Now, all you need to do is just enter an address or look it up on Google.

Of course, you can use it minimized or just hit the Maximize icon to extend it to full screen.

⇒ Use Replit

These are the best unblocked browsers with no downloads that have been tested and trusted by us based on the categories outlined above.

What is an unblocked browser?

An unblocked browser is a proxy server that allows users to access restricted websites and banned online content.

Furthermore, these browsers can come in different types depending on your preference. There are some unblocked browsers you need to download on your system, while some don’t require any software download.

An unblocked browser with no download works because you don’t have to install a separate app, but you can access proxy server browsers through other browsers. Some of the benefits of using them are:

  • They guarantee safe browsing while hiding your private information and maintaining anonymity.
  • Unblocked browsers allow you to access restricted or blocked content in your location.
  • The unblocked browsers with no downloads also preserve space on your device.

Nonetheless, users can check our pick of the best browsers to open blocked sites and games. Also, we have a detailed guide on how to unblock websites on Safari and access their content.

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

Local Security Authority Process High CPU & Memory [SOLVED]

Also known as the LSASS.exe, the local security authority process is an executable file that handles the security operations for your Windows computer.

This includes functions such as password authentication, password changes, and creating access tokens across multiple applications. 

If you are having issues with your Local security authority process using too much CPU power, it is possible that your system could be compromised. This leads to the program taking up too much CPU power and hogging the memory.

How can I fix Local Security Authority Process high CPU?

1. Check for Windows Update

  1. Go to your search button on the bottom left part of your screen. search box
  2. Type Settings and click on the App. open settings
  1. The settings up will open with different options.
  2. Scroll down and select Update and Security.select Update and Security
  1. Click the Check for Updates button and let your computer check for available Windows updates. This might take some time. Check for updates
  1. If you are up to date, move on to the next solution. If not, consider downloading and installing the updates. 

Sometimes, Windows updates come with bugs and glitches that affect the local security authority. Microsoft routinely sends out fixes with subsequent updates which are sometimes not immediately downloaded to your system. 

2. Scan for viruses 

2.1. Check for fake LSASS.exe programs on your computer.

  1. Open your file explorer. On the This PC window, click on your local disk (C:). Local disk C
  2. Scroll down to Windows and hit Enter. Windows
  3. Scroll down to system32 and hit EnterSystem32
  4. Check whether the lsass.exe file is correctly spelt and is to an unusually large file. Lsass.exe file
  5. Delete any program that is wrongly misspelt. 

2.2. Use an Antivirus

The best and safest way of getting rid of any malicious files and programs from your computer is through an antivirus program. 

If you are looking for reliable antivirus protection, consider using TotalAV. It is designed to protect your system against corruption from such malicious programs.

⇒ Get TotalAV

3. Do a system restore

  1. Go to your search button at the bottom left of your screen and search for Create a Restore Point Search-for-system-restore-point
  1. Select the System Protection tab to open it 
  2. Find and select System Restore. Then hit Next. system-properties
  1. Pick a restore point and select scan for affected programs. This option will let you know what changes to expect. 
  2. Close the scan for the affected programs Window.
  3. Select Next and follow the prompts to create a restore point for your computer. 

Note that you might encounter an error on step 2 if you have never created a system protection system before. system-protection

This means you won’t be able to apply this solution to your computer and should move on to the next solution. 

4. Run the Active Directory Data Collector

  1. Launch your Server Manager Windows Server 2008 or later.
  2. Open the Server Manager, click Tool, and select Performance Monitor.
  3. Now, expand the Diagnosis option, and Navigate Reliability and Performance, Data Collector Sets, and System.
  4. Right-click on the Active Directory Diagnostics option, and from the menu that appears, select Start.
  5. After the compilation, navigate Diagnostics, Reliability and Performance, Reports, System, and Active Directory Diagnostics to view the report.

Note that this will only work on Windows servers.

Consider setting up the protection and if you encounter issues, this detailed guide will help you out. 

We also have a guide on what to do if Local Security Authority is off, so don’t miss it. Learn more about how the Local Security Authority process works in Windows and what the lsass.exe file does in our lsass.exe explained guide.

Remember to always keep your system well updated at all times to keep your computer system healthy and robust. 

If you have additional fixes, feel free to leave them in the comment section below. 

Inaccessible Boot Device in Windows 11BSOD Error Fixed

The Inaccessible Boot Device Windows 11 error is another BSOD (stop code) issue that can arise from various causes. This particular error has a 0x0000007b stop code, often arising during the system startup.

Inaccessible Boot Device is a BSOD error, and it appears because Windows can’t find your boot drive. A bad update or improper BIOS configuration on Windows causes the issue.

How do I fix inaccessible boot device on Windows 11?

Before we start, there are a few preliminary checks you can try:

  • Connect the device with an Ethernet connection when installing Windows or new updates so it can download the necessary drivers.
  • Ensure you have the right drive set as a boot device in BIOS.

1. Change RST to AHCI in BIOS

  1. Restart PC several times to and choose Troubleshoot.
  2. Next, choose Advanced options and select Command Prompt.
  3. Run the following command: bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal
  4. Restart your PC and keep pressing F2 or Del to enter BIOS.
  5. Go to storage settings.
  6. Make sure to switch from RST to AHCI.
  7. Repeat steps 1 and 2 but this time run: bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

2. Disable VMD in BIOS

  1. Restart your PC and enter BIOS.
  2. Next, navigate to Advanced and choose Storage Configuration.
  3. Select VMD Configuration and set Enable VMD Controller to Disabled.

3. Disable Virtualisation Direct I/O

  1. Enter BIOS.
  2. Next, navigate to Advanced and choose System Agent Configuration.
  3. Locate Virtualisation Direct I/O or VT-d and disable it.
  4. A few users reported that you need to disable Kernel DMA protection before you can complete the previous step.
  5. Save changes.

Keep in mind that disabling this method only works before you install an update that caused this error.

4. Remove the problematic update

  1. Restart your PC several times during the boot.
  2. Choose Troubleshoot and then Advanced options.
  3. Select Uninstall updates.
  4. Next choose Uninstall latest quality update.
  5. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.
  6. If the problem is still there, repeat the steps, but uninstall the latest feature update this time.

An Inaccessible Boot Device loop on Windows 11 can appear if the default boot device is missing or if BIOS settings don’t fully support the boot device.

For more information, check our guide on the Inaccessible Boot Device BSOD on Windows 10.

If you have any questions regarding the Inaccessible Boot Device Windows 11 error, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below; we’ll be sure to look.

Fix Laptop Camera Black Screen Issues with 9 Easy Tips

Windows 10 and 11 work with some of the best high-quality webcams to devastating effect. However, some users are starting to complain that their webcam is showing a black screen when using it.

This issue mostly occurs after an operating system upgrade. Thankfully, you can fix the issue quickly by following the steps in this guide carefully.

However, it must be noted that if you have any hardware malfunctions to the webcam this will not be an appropriate approach to the issue. If you are sure it is not a hardware issue, you can confidently use our solutions to solve the webcam black screen issue on Windows 10 and 11.

Why is my laptop camera black?

There are many things that can cause the black screen issues with your webcam on Windows 10. Below are some of the variations of this issue and the causes:

  • A4Tech, Logitech webcam shows black screen – Camera showing a black screen on Zoom: Almost every webcam can have this problem, and many users reported this issue with A4Tech and Logitech webcams.
  • Webcam shows a black screen no audio: This is usually caused by a bad driver, and it can be easily fixed.
  • Webcam shows a white screen, green screen, gray screen: This is a variation of this problem, but you should be able to fix it by using solutions from this article.
  • HP, Dell, Lenovo, Asus, Acer, Toshiba laptop camera showing black screen on Windows: This can be a driver or a hardware-related issue.
  • Webcam shows mirror image, inverted image, picture upside down: This is usually caused by a bad driver or your webcam settings.
  • Webcam not working, not detected: If your webcam isn’t detected, be sure to connect it to a different port and update your drivers.
  • Laptop camera showing black screen Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows 7: The solutions below are applicable to all Windows iterations, so make sure to check them out.
  • Camera black screen Android: Try to restart your phone or apply any software updates available.

Without further ado, let’s just jump right in!

How do I fix my camera black screen?

1. Download the latest webcam driver

  1. Go to your manufacturer’s website to download the latest of your webcam driver.
    intel camera windows 10 webcam black screen
  2. If a new version of drivers for Windows 10 is available you will need to uninstall the current drivers you use and install the new drivers from the website

If the webcam camera of a laptop like HP, Dell, or Lenovo is showing a black screen, you can proceed to your webcam manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver. This should help fix the driver issue. try it.

Use a third-party driver downloader

We also strongly recommend using dedicated software, in order to make sure that your PC won’t have any problems caused by installing the wrong drivers.

Rid yourself of manually searching for the correct drivers with specialized driver updating software. Any driver that is found broken will be compared to its built-in database and updated accordingly.

2. Update your webcam driver

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
    device manager
  2. Double-click on the Cameras option to expand it.
    cameras
  3. Right-click on the drivers there and select Update driver.
    update driver
  4. Select the Browse my computer for drivers.
    browse my computer  camera windows 10 webcam black screen
  5. Select the Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer option.
    let me
  6. Now, choose the USB Video device option.
  7. Finally, click the Next button and wait for the process to finish.
    usb video

The webcam black screen issue on Windows 10 is usually down to driver issues. Updating your drivers should help fix the issue in this case. Remember to restart your PC after the update.

3. Update your recording application

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Select the Apps option.
    apps camera windows 10 webcam black screen
  3. Look for the app that is experiencing the issue and click on it.
  4. Click the Uninstall button.
    uninstall zoom
  5. Now, go to the Microsoft Store to download the latest version of the app.

If you are facing the camera black screen issue on apps like Zoom or Skype on Windows 10, you can uninstall and reinstall the app. This is because the issue might be with the version of the app you are using.

So, reinstalling the latest version should solve the problem.

4. Uninstall your webcam driver

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Cameras option by clicking the arrow next to it.
    cameras
  3. Right-click your webcam driver and choose Uninstall device.
    uninstall device camera windows 10 webcam black screen
  4. Click the Uninstall button to proceed.
    uninstall button
  5. Finally, click on Scan for hardware changes icon and wait while Windows installs the necessary drivers.
    scan for

After reinstalling your drivers, check if the laptop camera is still showing a black screen on Windows 10.

Keep in mind that Windows 10 can sometimes update your drivers automatically in the background causing this issue to reappear.

If this happens, you’ll have to repeat this process and uninstall your driver once again.

To prevent your webcam driver from automatically updating be sure to check our guide on how to prevent certain drivers from updating.

5. Add an additional light source

According to users, sometimes you might fix this problem simply by adding an additional light source.

If your webcam shows a black screen, simply use a flashlight or any other light source, and point it at your camera. After doing that your webcam should start working again.

Keep in mind that this is a crude workaround, but if this solution works for you, you need to repeat it whenever you want to use your webcam.

6. Remove your laptop battery

Sometimes, the camera black screen issue on Windows 10 might be down to some glitches with your laptop.

To fix this, some users suggest that you disconnect your laptop from the power outlet and remove its battery.

Now, press and hold the power button for 30 seconds or more. You might have to repeat this process a couple of times in order for this solution to work.

After doing that, the laptop battery back into your laptop and start it normally. Now your webcam should start working again.

If the issue still persists, you might have to remove your battery and repeat the entire process again.

7. Change your Exposure settings

  1. Open Skype and go to Tools and select Options.
    Webcam show black screen no audio
  2. Now navigate to Video settings and click on Webcam settings.
    Webcam shows green screen
  3. Go to the Camera Control tab and check the Auto checkbox next to Exposure.

Keep in mind that every recording application is different, so you might not have the Exposure option available.

This isn’t a universal solution, and you’ll have to repeat it for every video recording app that you want to use.

8. Make sure that your camera is compatible with your PC

If your camera shows black screen on Windows 10 or 11, the problem might be a compatibility issue. Some older webcams might not be fully compatible with your PC, and that can cause this issue to appear.

To check if the compatibility is the issue, we advise you to try your webcam on a different device and see if the issue reappears.

If the issue manifests on another PC, the camera might not be fully compatible with Windows 10, and your only solution is to replace it.

9. Disconnect other USB devices and connect the camera to a different port

If you’re using a USB camera, you should know that sometimes other USB devices can cause interference. This can occur if you’re using a USB hub.

You can check out our useful article about the best USB hubs if you are thinking about changing your current one.

To fix the issue, it’s advised to disconnect unnecessary USB devices and check if your webcam works.

If the issue still persists and your webcam shows a black screen, you might want to try connecting it to a different port. Try connecting your camera to every available port and check if that solves the issue.

The solutions above are all you need to find and fix your webcam if it only shows a black screen since the update to Windows 10.

How can I fix camera showing black screen on Windows 11?

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter: get-appxpackage *Microsoft.WindowsCamera* | remove-appxpackage
  3. Finally, go to the Microsoft Store to download the camera app again.

After reinstalling the app, you camera should start working normally again on Windows 11.

Like Windows 10, the camera black screen issue on Windows 11 can also be due to outdated or faulty drivers.

The driver update process is pretty much the same in the new OS so you will find it very easy to perform by following the steps on our Windows 10 guide.

Also, other solutions in this guide should work seamlessly on Windows 11. So you can try them if updating your drivers does not work.

How do I restart my laptop camera?

The easiest way to restart your built-in webcam on a Windows 10 or 11 laptop is to restart your PC. Also, you might need to uninstall and reinstall the camera drivers as shown in this guide.

However, if you want to restart the camera for a particular app or program, you can turn off the access from settings and turn it on again.

The camera black screen issue on Windows 10 and 11 can be exasperating, as it restricts some apps like Zoom and Skype. But with the fixes in this guide, you should be able to restore normalcy easily.

While still on camera issues, you might be interested in our guide on what to do if the webcam is not working in Windows 11.

Please post below in the comments section of the page if you encountered any other issues to your webcam and the fixes posted above don’t work for you.

Windows Cannot Connect to the Printer? 6 Best Solutions

Many reported that Windows could not connect to the printer, getting error messages such as windows Could not connect to the printer check the printer name and try again. This can prevent you from performing any future printing tasks.

It can be a major problem, but luckily, there are few solutions that can help you with that.

How to fix Windows cannot connect to the printer?

Before we try anything, ensure that your system is up to date to prevent any issues.

1. Check if your printer is an Unspecified Device and update the drivers

1.1 Find out if your printer is listed as an Unspecified Device

  1. Click the Start button, type control, and select Control Panel from the results.
  2. Choose Devices and Printers.
  3. Scroll down and see if your printer is under the Unspecified section.

1.2 Update drivers

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager from the list.device-manager bluetooth won't turn on windows 10
  2. Expand the Printers or Printer queues, find your printer in the list, right-click it, and select Update driver. If you don’t find it in the mentioned sections, you can also look under USB controllers or LPT on your PC.
  3. Now select Search automatically for drivers.
  4. If the system finds a new driver, it will install it, and you will have to restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Another method you can use to update your drivers is a tool such as Outbyte Driver Updater. Install it, and you’ll automatically update all outdated drivers with just a few clicks.

This method is perfect if you don’t want to search and download drivers manually, so be sure to try it out.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

2. Uninstall and reinstall your printer

2.1 Uninstall the printer

  1. Select Start and click on Settings.
  2. Choose Devices.
  3. Click Printers & Scanners on the left pane.
  4. Find your printer and click on it, then select Remove device.

If you have problems with this step, we also have an article on what to do if you can’t remove the printer in Windows 10.

2.2 Reinstall the printer

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Choose Devices.
  3. Click Printers & Scanners on the left pane.
  4. Select Add a printer or scanner.
  5. If the system detects your printer, select it and go on with the installation. If not, you can click on The printer I want isn’t listed.
  6. Now you have plenty of options for every situation, including a network or a Bluetooth printer. In our example, we chose to Add a local printer because it’s the most common. Select the appropriate option for you and click Next.
  7. Next, select the port with your printer from the drop-down menu and click Next. Nowadays, printers use USB ports, which may be different in your situation. If you don’t know which one is, consult the printer documentation or contact the manufacturer for the information.
  8. Try to find the manufacturer and the model in the list. If there aren’t many to choose from, clicking the Windows Update button will add a lot more, but the process takes a few minutes.
  9. You can also click on the Have Disk button if you have the software disk that came with the printer. After you select the printer, click Next.
  10. Select the printer name (it’s already there, but you may change it) and click Next.
  11. The system will install the printer in a few seconds. You will be able to decide if you want to share the printer or not but in the end, click Next.
  12. You can click the Print a test page button in the last window and select Finish. Printing the page will tell you if the printer works, so we recommend using it.
Note icon NOTE
You can print a test page to ensure the printer works correctly. Check the device’s manufacturer’s website for troubleshooting or driver updates if it is installed but doesn’t work.

3. Temporarily disable your antivirus security software

  1. Click the Start button, type security, and click on Windows Security from the results.
  2. Now select Virus and threat protection.
  3. Scroll down and click on Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
  4. Turn off Real-time protection.

Another option is to uninstall third-party software on your PC, such as computer cleaners or antivirus tools.

When protecting your PC – use an antivirus- temporarily disable it because you need it to prevent your computer from security threats.

Immediately after fixing the connection error, you can enable it back. However, if the antivirus is indeed causing this issue, perhaps this is a good moment to consider switching to a different one.

Tip icon Editor’s tip
If you’re looking for a reliable antivirus that won’t interfere with your system, give it a try to ESET HOME Security Essential.

4. Check Default printer settings

  1. Click Start and select Settings.
  2. Choose Devices.
  3. Click Printers & Scanners on the left pane.
  4. Scroll to Let Windows manage my default printer and uncheck the box.

5. Clear spooler files and restart spooler service

5.1 Stop the Print Spooler service

  1. Click Start, type services, and click on the app from the results.
  2. Under Services, double-click Print Spooler.
  3. Select Stop, then OK.

5.2 Delete the contents of the Spool folder and restart the Print Spooler service

  1. Press the Windows key + E to start File Manager, then go to the following path (you will need administrative privileges to access the folder): C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS
  2. Delete all the folders in the folder if you find any. In our example, you can see that the folder is empty, but it might be different in your case.
  3. Click the Start button, type services, and select the Services app from the results.
  4. Under Services, double-click Print Spooler again.
  5. Click Start.
  6. Go to the Startup Type list and select the Automatic box.
  7. Click Apply, then click OK.

We also have a helpful article that will guide you on what to do if the Print Spooler keeps stopping on Windows 10.

6. Use the built-in Printer troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I, then go down to the Troubleshoot section and click it.troubleshoot-opt-w11 0xa00f4244 nocamerasareattached
  2. Choose Other troubleshooters from the right side.
  3. Find the Printer troubleshooter and click Run next to it.printer-run windows cannot connect to the printer

Thus, it is one of the most efficient and fast solutions you can try if you come across Windows cannot connect to the printer in Windows.

How do I know what IP address my printer is on?

  1. Press Windows, then type control and open the top result.
  2. Here, navigate to Hardware and Sound.hardwa-resound windows cannot connect to the printer
  3. Next, go to Devices and Printers.devices-printers windows cannot connect to the printer
  4. Right-click your printer and select Properties.prop-print windows cannot connect to the printer
  5. Then look in the Web Services or Ports tab for your IP address.

How to access the printing preferences in Windows 10?

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Select Printers and scanners from the left pane.
  3. Click on your printer and select Manage.
  4. Now choose the Printing preferences option.
  5. In the next window, you can tweak the settings as you like, but remember that it may look different for your printer model and manufacturer.

If none of our solutions worked, contact your printer’s manufacturer for more troubleshooting and support based on your specific issue.

Because the main problem when it comes to such an issue is a malfunctioning driver, we also recommend consulting our guide on how to remove a corrupted printer driver.

We also have a guide on what to do if Windows can’t find the printer, so be sure to check it out for more solutions.

We also have a guide on Printer sharing not working, and a useful guide on what to do if you’re unable to install printer on Windows.

Share with us your experiences in the comments section below, and write us any questions or suggestions you might have.

Error 500 on Dropbox: How to Fix This Connection Issue

Dropbox is a cloud-based platform that allows you to store and share files. However, users have complained about the Dropbox error 500 preventing them from using it. Also, users report that the Dropbox bug revives deleted files removed for up to five years.

What causes Dropbox error 500?

The Dropbox Error 500 message can pop up when using the Dropbox app on your PC. It can occur in several instances, such as Dropbox error 500, something went wrong…, Dropbox couldn’t upload file error 500, etc.

Various factors can cause the error 500 to appear in Dropbox. Some are:

  • Network connection issues – Issues like network congestion and low bandwidth can cause the error 500 on the Dropbox app. Since it is a cloud-based platform, it needs a stable and fast internet connection to run smoothly.
  • Corrupt installation file – Many things can go wrong with the Dropbox program on your PC if the installation file is compromised. It affects its activities and can cause the app components to malfunction, resulting in Dropbox error 500.
  • Corrupt system files – When your system files are corrupt, they can impede the process of Dropbox on your PC. Likewise, the Dropbox app can get corrupted due to the corrupt system files, causing it to crash or run into the error 500 when initiated.
  • Browser cache – If your browser cache is corrupt, you may run into the Dropbox error 500. It can occur if the cache files are too old.

Nonetheless, there are some troubleshooting steps you use to fix Dropbox error 500 and get Dropbox to work again,

How do I fix the Dropbox error 500?

Go through the following preliminary checks:

If you can’t fix the error, try the solutions below.

1. Run a System File Checker (SFC) scan

  1. Left-click the Start button, type command prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Click Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
  3. Type the following and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  4. Restart your PC and check if the Dropbox error 500 appears again.

The System File Checker scan will repair corrupt system files causing the Dropbox client to run into Error 500. Read our guide on what to do if nothing happens when you select run as administrator on Windows 11.

2. Power cycle your router or modem

  1. Hold the power button on your router for about 10 seconds.
  2. Unplug your router’s Ethernet and power cable for seconds to allow it to power off.
  3. Plug in the needed cables to your router and connect it to a power outlet.
  4. Press the Power button to turn it on.
  5. Reconnect to the network and check if the error persists.

Power cycling the router or modem will refresh its network and allow it to connect faster. It will fix Dropbox’s no internet connection error on Windows 11.

3. Check for Router Firmware updates

The Router’s firmware can become outdated and get plagued by bugs causing its network to be unstable. Hence, you need to update its firmware to provide the patches and updates.

Hence, go through the router manual and check for router Firmware update procedures. Additionally, we recommend you contact your router’s manufacturer for instructions on updating the device.

4. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies

  1. Launch the Chrome browser. Click the Menu button, select More Tools, then click Clear browsing data.
  2. Choose a time range for the data to be cleared, then select All time to delete everything.
  3. Check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, then click Clear data.
  4. Close and relaunch your browser.

Clearing the browser’s cache and cookies will delete the corrupt files that may prevent you from using Dropbox web.

5. Uninstall the Dropbox app

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Control Panel, then press OK to open it.
  2. Click on Programs and Features.
  3. Find Dropbox, right-click on it, then select Uninstall from the drop-down.
  4. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error 500 still shows on your computer.

Uninstalling Dropbox will help stop its processes on your computer and fix installation fl issues.

You can check our guide on uninstalling programs that cannot be uninstalled on Windows 11.

In conclusion, you can read about the Dropbox error: Your computer is not supported, and some simple solutions. Our readers may also be interested in fixing the Dropbox failed to uninstall on their PCs.

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

A Driver Cannot Load On This Device [Solved]

Drivers are a critical piece of software that facilitates the relay of commands between the OS and the respective device. But what do you do if you encounter the A driver cannot load on this device error in Windows?

You will see this error message when booting the OS, and its effect may or may not be distinctly visible initially, depending on the driver affected. But, over time, the driver may stop functioning with the respective device.

So, you must troubleshoot the error. Also, in most cases, the malfunctioning driver is listed in the error box, which makes it easy for you to proceed.

How can I fix A driver cannot load on this device?

1. Update the affected driver

  1. Press Windows + I to launch the Settings app, and select Windows Update from the tabs listed in the navigation pane on the left.Windows Update to fix windows 11 a driver cannot load on this device
  2. Now, click on Advanced options on the right.Advanced options
  3. Scroll down and click on Optional updates under Additional options.Optional updates to fix windows 11 a driver cannot load on this device
  4. Click on Driver updates here.Driver updates
  5. If you see an update for the problematic driver, tick the checkbox for it, and click on the Download & install button at the bottom.Update driver to fix windows 11 a driver cannot load on this device
  6. Once done with the installation process, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.

Most of the time, simply updating the driver is likely to fix the A driver cannot load on this device error in Windows 11. So, check if there’s an update listed for the driver from Windows itself and install it.

In case you don’t find a newer version listed in the Windows Update section, try the other ways to update the driver. Here, you just need to check if the device manufacturer has uploaded the latest driver version on their website.

2. Disable the memory integrity feature

  1. Press Windows + S to launch the Search menu, enter Windows Security in the text field at the top, and click on the relevant search result.Windows security to fix windows 11 a driver cannot load on this device
  2. Next, click on Device security from the various options listed here.Device Security
  3. Click on the Core isolation details option at the top.Core isolation details
  4. Now, turn off the toggle for Memory integrity.Disable memory integrity
  5. Finally, restart the computer for the changes to fully come into effect.

Memory integrity is a security feature in Windows that prevents the installation of incompatible or potentially harmful drivers.

So, if a bad driver is trying to gain access, the feature will block that thereby leading to the A driver cannot load on this device error in Windows 11 or Windows 10.

Here are some variations of this error:

  • ene.sys driver cannot load
  • vmdrv.sys cannot load
  • ssgdio64.sys cannot load
  • iqvw64e.sys cannot load
  • mslo64.sys cannot load
  • amsdk.sys cannot load
  • driver cannot be loaded reinstall the program may fix the issue

Also, for more details on driver-related issues, especially if you encounter an error stating An exception occurred in the driver: Could not find driver (driver cannot load on this device), refer to our comprehensive guide.

The two methods here have fixed the error for most users. However, if it persists, you can perform a system restore or reset Windows 11 to its factory settings.

Find out what to do if a driver is missing when installing Windows, since this would prevent you from installing the latest iteration and upgrading the OS.

Tell us which fix worked and which driver you had trouble with in the comments section below.

DISM Error 87 On Windows: Causes & Quick Fixes

Windows users have a problem dealing with many error codes caused by different issues. For example, DISM Error 87 is a command-line error that appears on Windows 11 and Windows 10.

This article will look at what causes and several ways of fixing the DISM Error 87.

Why am I getting Error 87 when trying to run DISM?

There are several causes of this error when you input any DISM command in the Command Prompt. These are some of the common ones:

  • Mistype when entering the DISM command line, especially spellings and spacing. Most users perform simple mistakes like incorrect spacing between the commands, which raises the error.
  • Improper installation of Windows causes this error due to problems with the Command Prompt.
  • Users tend to block some essential updates when performing Windows updates, which raises bugs that throw that error.
  • When using the wrong versions of DISM, it raises an error since the DISM version is old.
  • You get an error if you use the standard Command Prompt (without administrative privileges). This is because it limits the user from accessing the administrative parts of the prompt.

Here are some of the related issues you might come across:

  • Error 87 The parameter is incorrect
  • DISM Error 87 The restorehealth option is not recognized in this context
  • Error 87 the cleanup-image option is unknown

Now that you have a basic understanding of the DISM Error 87 problem in Windows 11 & Windows 10, let’s head to the solutions.

 How can I fix the DISM Error 87?

1. Type the DISM command correctly

The first thing you have to verify is whether to commands are correct. For example, if you input the wrong command, make a spelling mistake, or add a space at the wrong point, DISM Error 87 might appear in Windows.

Here are the correct commands for the DISM tool:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

There are other DISM commands as well, but these should provide you with a basic understanding of how to use them.

2. Update your Windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings and select Windows Update from the tabs on the left. Windows Update
  2. Now, click on Check for updates.check for updates to fix dism error 87 windows 11
  3. If an update is listed after the scan, click on Download & install to get it.download & install to fix dism error 87 windows 11

After updating the OS, verify if the DISM Error 87 is fixed in Windows 11. If it still appears while running the tool, head to the following method.

3. Use a third-party tool

Some system problems, such as TLS, can be highly frustrating, and the reason for these errors is often unknown.

The ideal solution is to use reliable third-party repair software so the process would run efficiently and error-free.

4. Run the command line as an administrator

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Search menu, enter Command Prompt in the text field, and click on Run as administrator on the right.Run as administrator to fix dism error 87 windows 11
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt that appears.Yes
  3. Now, try running the DISM tool.

Launching Command Prompt as an administrator will provide all the administrative rights to run the DISM tool and should fix Error 87 in Windows 11.

5. Use the correct DISM version

  1. Head to the official Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit(WADK) website and click Download the Windows ADK.
  2. Click Run to install the downloaded executable file. It has deployment tools that create the Deployment and Imaging Tools environment to make the running of DSIM commands successful.
  3. Click Next and follow the prompts to finish the installation.

6. Check for corrupt system files

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run command, enter cmd in the text field, press the Ctrl + Shift keys, and then click OK.cmd to fix dism error 87 windows 11
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Type this command and hit Enter: sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the verification process, and check if any violations were found and resolved.

While it’s recommended that you first run the DISM tool and then SFC (System File Checker) scan, in this case, using just the latter might help. After completing the SFC scan, check if DISM Error 87 is fixed in Windows 11.

7. Perform a disk check

  1. Press Windows + S, enter Command Prompt in the text field, right-click on the relevant search result, and select Run as administrator.run as administrator to fix dism error 87 windows 11
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Type/paste the following command and press Enter:chkdsk C:/rcheck disk
  4. If you are asked to schedule the scan the next time the computer restarts, press Y, and then hit Enter.schedule scan to fix dism error 87 windows 11

Let the Check Disk process run uninterrupted until it’s completed, and then verify if the DISM Error 87 is fixed in Windows 11.

8. Clear component store and revert the Windows update

  1. Launch Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type the following command and hit Enter:dism.exe /image:C: /cleanup-image /revertpendingactions
  3. Once done, restart the computer.
  4. Again, launch Command Prompt with administrative privileges, paste the following command, and hit Enter:dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /startcomponentcleanup
  5. After the two commands are run, restart the computer for the changes to effect.

9. Reinstall Windows

If none of the solutions listed previously fixed DISM Error 87, you are left with no option but to reinstall Windows.

There are two options: reset Windows 11 to factory settings or perform a clean install. Both are equally effective, though the latter requires much more effort, and you would need to create a bootable USB drive.

How do I use DISM to repair an image in Windows 11?

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Search menu, type Command Prompt, and click on Run as administrator.command prompt
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.yes
  3. Now, paste the first of the following three commands, hit Enter, and after one is done running, execute the next until done with all three:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthdism
  4. Once done, restart the computer for the changes to effect, and the Windows 11 image will be repaired.

What is DISM?

DISM stands for Deployment Image Servicing and Management, and its main work is to help organize virtual disks. It manages split Windows Imaging Format (WIM) files, Full Flash Utility Files, Virtual Hard Disks(VHD), and other vital information.

You can access the tool from the Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell, which is used to fix problems with the Windows image.

Fixing the DISM error 87 in Windows 11 will correct all the system file errors and problems. It also helps in making the modification to the OS more seamless. If you have issues with Windows 11, fixing it addresses all the problems the user faces.

Also, please find out how to make Windows 11 faster and more responsive and boost its performance. To learn more about DISM, we have a guide that explains what is dismhost.exe, so you might want to check it out.

Most DSIM errors are temporary and quick to fix. Try all the methods, and let us know which one worked for you in the comments section.

To Sync This Notebook Sign In To OneNote [Error Fixed]

OneNote users often describe getting this popup OneNote needs a password to sync this notebook. They click the sign-in option and enter their Microsoft email in vain. None of the notes they are entering are being synced.

If you are also confronting with this situation, let us tell you that there are a few possible causes to take into consideration. The most common ones include generic glitches, synchronization conflicts, server errors, corrupted data in Windows Credentials stores or corrupted Office installation.

Moreover, this tends to happen if you leave your OneNote open and the PC enters Sleep Mode. In this case, OneNote will create a record in its cache to stop you from losing your data. This sounds like a useful function, yet it can block OneNote from launching correctly when exiting Sleep Mode.

Long story short, OneNote keeps looking to the Cached user for credentials and there are none when it tries to authenticate. Therefore, you keep trying to enter the password but never end up signing in. In the following guide, we’ll help you fix this error.

How can I fix OneNote needs a password to sync this notebook error?

1. Delete Generic Credentials

how to delete Generic Credentials

  1. Close OneNote.
  2. Open up a Run dialogue box by pressing Windows key + R keyboard shortcut.
  3. Inside the newly opened Run window, type Credential Manager and press Enter.
  4. Click the Windows Credentials tab.
  5. Identify all the Cached users on the list. They are labeled MicrosoftOffice15_Data: or MicrosoftOffice16_Data:
  6. Press the arrow on the side of each of them and choose Remove or click on Delete.
  7. Up next, open OneNote and try to enter the password for your account. It should connect this time, letting you sync your notebooks again.

Credential Manager is not working? Don’t panic, this guide will help you get past this issue in no time.


2. Re-sign with your OneNote account

Remove Account - Yes

  1. Open the OneNote application.
  2. Then, click on your name in the top-right corner.
  3. Choose Sign Out.
  4. At the Remove Account prompt, click on Yes to remove your account and sign out of this Office application.
  5. Return to the top-right corner of the OneNote window and click on Sign In.
  6. Add your Microsoft email, phone number or Skype, and the password to sign back into the OneNote application.
  7. Once the process is complete, see if you’re still getting the same error.

The OneNote needs a password to sync this notebook error can also be caused by a generic glitch after a major Windows 10 update. In this fortunate case, simply logging out and back into the OneNote application proves to be useful.


3. Repair the Office Installation

Online Repair

  1. At first, press the Windows key and the R key at the same time. This will immediatelly open the Run command box.
  2. Inside the Run window, type appwiz.cpl and press Enter to open up the Programs and Features window.
  3. Scroll down through the list of installed applications and find your Office installation.
  4. Right-click on it and choose Change from the newly appeared context menu.
  5. Have patience until the initial investigation is complete. Up next, select Quick Repair from the list of available options.
  6. Confirm and start the process by clicking on Repair.
  7. When prompted, restart your computer and verify if the problem you were having is resolved.

It all the above solutions failed, consider an Office installation error as the root of the error message you are seeing. To fix this, repair your Office installation. Note that the repair experience is similar to a fresh installation.

The amount of time it takes usually depends on your connection speed and what the issue is. If you’d like more details, take a look at the best tools to test the Internet speed on Windows 10.

If that doesn’t resolve the problem, then you could also try the Online Repair option. The repair procedure is far from complicated, so just follow the wizard. However, prior to clicking Repair, you’ll need to save your work and close all Office programs.

Another scenario to take into consideration is that Windows Credentials holds corrupted data that affects your Microsoft account. Removing the account via Credential Manager is the best solution to apply.

Are things any better now? Don’t hesitate to let us know your opinion in the comments area below, along with any other suggestions to fix this error.

[wl_navigator]

Steam VR Keeps Opening Itself: 3 Ways to Get Rid of it

Many reported that Steam VR keeps opening by itself, and this can be a problem if it happens randomly or when you try to start a game.

This is a minor but rather annoying issue, and in today’s guide, we will look into why this issue occurs and how to fix it on your PC correctly.

Why does Steam VR keep opening?

  • Specific Developer settings might be starting the application.
  • Your controller has a button stuck that keeps waking up the device.
  • Hidden settings in Firefox can sometimes cause this issue.

How do I stop SteamVR from opening automatically?

Before you try out any advanced troubleshooting, check if the buttons on your device aren’t stuck. In addition, disconnect controllers from the charging station and the SteamVR software off as well as your controllers.

1. Change the Status Check setting

  1. Click the Steam VR icon in the system tray.
  2. Navigate to Developer Settings.
     
  3. Set Status Check to Never.
  4. Optional: Disable Start SteamVR when an application starts and Check for Steam options.

2. Change Firefox settings

  1. Open Firefox and in the address bar go to about:config
  2. Search for dom.vr.openvr.enabled.
  3. Double-click it to set it to false.

3. Rename the OpenVR file

  1. Hit the Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Type %localappdata% in the address bar and hit Enter.
  3. Locate the OpenVR file and delete it. The best option would be to copy the original file to a different location and then rename the file in the folder in case you need it in the future.

How do I stop SteamVR from launching on Roblox?

  1. Press Windows + R and enter %localappdata%\Roblox\
  2. Locate Globalbasicsettings_13 file and open it with Notepad.
  3. Make sure to find the following line: <bool name="VREnabled">true</bool> and change it to <bool name="VREnabled">false</bool> 
  4. Optional: Locate <bool name="HasEverUsedVR">true</bool> and change it to
    <bool name="HasEverUsedVR">false</bool>
  5. Save changes.

There you have it. That’s how to successfully stop SteamVR from opening itself whenever you log in to your PC and any other information you need.

Sadly, this isn’t the only issue you may encounter, and many reported that SteamVR settings aren’t working. If that happens, you might need to update Steam VR.

In case you’re not having any issues, we have a guide on how to make Steam VR games run better, so don’t miss it.

We’d love to hear about any other tips that helped you solve this problem in the comment section below.

Diagnostic Policy Service High CPU: 3 Methods to Reduce it

There are some background services in Windows to enhance your experience and minimize errors. But, several users have reported that the Diagnostic Policy Service shows high CPU usage.

This will, in turn, affect the system’s performance and slow it down, which is not desirable. If you have been facing this issue, read ahead to learn more about it and its relevant fixes.

Why is Diagnostic Policy Service causing high CPU usage?

Here are the possible reasons for the Diagnostic Policy Service’s high CPU usage:

  • Corrupt system files: One of the significant reasons the Diagnostic Policy Service registers 100 percent CPU usage is a broken system file. The solution is to repair these files using built-in tools or dedicated repair software.
  • Outdated PC: Windows updates play a vital role in the smooth running of all components of your PC. You can experience this high CPU usage issue if your PC is outdated. You need to update Windows 11 to restore regular service.
  • The service itself has run into an issue: In some cases, it might run into a problem causing it to create large log files. This leads to abnormal resource usage. Killing the process and deleting its files should do the trick here.

Let’s now head to the methods to solve the high CPU usage by Diagnostic Policy Service.

How can I fix Diagnostic Policy Service’s high CPU usage?

1. End the Diagnostic Policy Service

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to launch Task Manager.
  2. Locate the Diagnostic Policy Service under Windows processes, right-click, and select End task from the context menu.Terminate Diagnostic Policy Service to reduce high CPU
  3. Tick the checkbox for Abandon unsaved data and shut down, and click on the Shut down button.Confirm change
  4. Press the Windows key + R, type services.msc, and click OK.Launch Services
  5. Locate and double-click on the Diagnostic Policy Service to view its properties.View properties to fix Diagnostic Policy Service high CPU
  6. Click on the Stop button to terminate the service, and click on OK at the bottom.Stop service
  7. Again, press Windows + R to launch the Run command.
  8. Type/paste the following address in the text field, and hit Enter.C:\WINDOWS\System32\sruGo to sru folder
  9. Click Continue in case a confirmation box pops up.Continue
  10. Locate and select the SRUDB.dat file, and hit the Del key to delete it.Delete SRUDB.dat file to fix Diagnostic Policy Service high CPU

After terminating the Diagnostic Policy Service, do not hesitate to check if the high CPU usage problem is resolved.

2. Update Windows 11

  1. Press the Windows key + I to launch the Settings app and select Windows Update in the left pane.Windows Update
  2. Click on Check for updates to scan for any available newer versions of the OS.Check for updates to fix Diagnostic Policy Service high CPU usage
  3. If any are available, download and install them on your computer.

If that does not help, we recommend trying a specialized repair app, which will scan your PC and fix any errors related to corrupted system files.

3. Run SFC and DISM scans in Command Prompt

  1. 1. Press Windows + S to launch the Search menu.

  2. 2. Enter Windows Terminal in the text field at the top, right-click on the relevant search result, and select Run as administrator from the context menu.

    Launch Windows Terminal to fix Diagnostic Policy Service high CPU
  3. 3. Click Yes on the UAC (User Account Control) prompt that pops up.

  4. 4. Next, click on the downward arrow at the top, and select Command Prompt from the list of options. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl + Shift + 2 to launch the Command Prompt tab.

    Open command prompt
  5. 5. Type/paste the following command and hit Enter to execute it: sfc /scannow

    Run SFC scan to fix Diagnostic Policy service high CPU
  6. 6. Once the SFC scan is complete, type/paste the following command and hit Enter to run the DISM tool: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

    Run DISM tool
  7. 7. Wait for the DISM tool to run and then restart the computer.

  8. You can solve the Diagnostic Policy Service high CPU problem by running the SFC and DISM commands in Command Prompt. The SFC (System File Checker) scan identifies the corrupt system files, and if any are found, replaces them with their cached copy stored on the system.

    On the other hand, the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool is used to fix issues with Windows Image or modify the installation media, if required.

These are all ways to reduce the high CPU usage due to Diagnostic Policy Services. Execute the fixes in the sequence listed, and your computer should be running smoothly in no time.

Several users have also reported high CPU usage due to Explorer.exe, so learn how to fix the problem. Again, the guide is for the previous OS, but remember that it is equally effective on Windows 11.

Please tell us which fix worked for you and what problems you faced due to high CPU usage in the comments section below.

How to Download Origin on Windows 11

You can purchase some of the most incredible games available on Origin, such as Battlefield, The Sims, Star Wars, Fifa, and the list goes on and on. Thus, we will show you today how to download Origin on Windows 11.

The platform also offers numerous entertaining free-to-play games, so there is no need to spend money on games.

Aside from that, you may add friends, play with friends, use the in-game overlay to browse the web while playing, and gain achievements, among many other things.

If you find that you can’t install Origin on your computer, scroll down to our last section which discussed this topic and provides a solution for you to follow. Keep up with us!

What does Origin do?

Origin is a platform that is required in order to be able to play the majority of Electronic Arts games on your Windows 11 PC. The platform has been in existence for quite some time, and it offers a diverse selection of other games that you can purchase and play.

origin install how to download origin on windows 11

But it also has other useful features, such as the ability to talk with friends and earn achievements for the games you play. It is definitely worth checking out.

In addition to Steam and Epic Games, it is one of the many game launchers that are accessible for your Windows computer.

For those who would prefer to have a large number of various games to pick from and enjoy playing without the necessity of purchasing each one, EA Play is the solution.

In essence, it is a subscription service that grants you access to special in-game awards, trials of specific games, exclusive in-game incentives, as well as a library of games that you can choose from.

How can I download Origin on Windows 11?

    Use their official website

  1. 1. Head to Origin’s official website

    On their website you will find the option to download Origin on your Windows PC or Mac.

    origin-home how to download origin on windows 11
  2. 2. Click on Download

    After you clock on download, then save the executable file they will show.

    download-origin how to download origin on windows 11
  3. 3. Double-click on the downloaded file

    Lastly, you only need to install it and follow the on-screen steps. That’s it! Pretty simple, isn’t it?

    run-origin how to download origin on windows 11

Why can’t I install Origin on Windows 11?

Due to potentially unwanted files and invalid Windows Registry entries left on your computer by a computer, Origin may fail to install on your computer.

Too much clutter on your hard drive not only takes up valuable storage space but also makes your computer work harder to locate the things you do need.

It is possible to archive files that are no longer in use to an external device, while downloads, duplicates, and temporary files can be erased entirely.

The usage of a specialized tool that cleans your files and the Windows Registry, such as CCleaner, is recommended in this situation because other software installations and Windows functioning may be impaired as well.

An alternative to the aforementioned software, CCleaner, we recommend that you check out our article on 5 best registry cleaner applications for Windows 11.

For more information on how to clean your files, take a look at our post on how to run Disk Cleanup in Windows 11 and make your PC swifter to use.

And if you are interested in how to make Windows 11 faster and more responsive, don’t miss out on the guide linked, and make sure to share it with your friends!

Was this guide helpful for you? Don’t hesitate to tell us in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!

How to Install APKs on Windows 11

If you’re wondering how to install APKs on Windows 11, the good news is that Microsoft now allows Android app support natively. You can install APK files directly or through third-party APK installers, opening the door to thousands of apps beyond the Microsoft Store.

Below are all the reliable methods to perform APK installation in Windows 11.

How can I install APK files on Windows 11?

1. Enable the Windows Subsystem & download the Amazon Appstore

1. 1. Download and install Windows Subsystem for Android

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to open the Start Menu.
  2. Select Microsoft Store to launch.
  3. Type Windows Subsystem for Android on the Microsoft Store search window and press Enter.
  4. Click Open Microsoft Store to be redirected to the Microsoft Store.
  5. Hit the Get button to start installation.
  6. Once installed, you can now download and open APKs.

1. 2. Download and install the Amazon Appstore

  1. Press the Windows + I key to open the Start Menu and click on All apps.
  2. Locate the Amazon Appstore and click on it to launch.
  3. Find the application of your choice and click on the Get button.

The Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) lets you run Android apps natively on your PC. With it, you can install the Amazon Appstore and use it to get APK files.

In terms of compatibility, it’s the best option. However, the app selection is quite limited.

2. Sideload APKs using an APK file

  1. Open your browser and click to Download SDK Platform-Tools for Windows.
  2. Click the checkbox I have read and agree with the above terms and conditions to start downloading.SDK download
  3. Open the zip folder to extract all files.
  4. Open the Start Menu and select All apps.
  5. Locate Windows Subsystem for Android and launch it.
  6. Select Developer mode and toggle it on.
  7. Go back to the extract folder and type cmd on the address bar.
  8. Type in the following commands and press Enter after each one: adb.exe connect <IP address>

    adb.exe install <file name>.apk
  9. Once your app is installed successfully, the following message will be displayed:
  10. Go back to the Start Menu and launch your APK to open.

By sideloading, you will be able to install more apps because you’re not limited to a specific app store. However, this implies some security risks and potential incompatibilities.

Even though you’ll be able to install the app, there’s no guarantee it will work error-free.

3. Get an Android emulator app

  1. Download and install an Android emulator on your PC. We highly recommend Bluestacks because it gives you direct access to the Google Play Store and is highly optimized for all sorts of mobile apps.
  2. Open Bluestacks and log into your Google Play account.sign into google play on bluestacks
  3. Once logged in, you can browse for and download apps as you would on your phone. You can then locate and access them directly from Bluestack’s interface.bluestacks

With an Android emulator like Bluestacks, you’ll have the easiest of times.

They offer full access to the Google Play Store and practically work as a virtual Android device. The drawback is that they can be resource-intensive.

How do I open an APK file on my PC?

In order to install APKs on Windows 11, you need to have Hyper-V and Virtual Machine Platform enabled.

To enable the two features:

  1. Hit the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open the Start Menu then select the Settings app.
  1. Navigate to Apps and select Optional features.
  1. Select More Windows Features.
  1. Locate Hyper-V and click on the checkbox then press OK.
  1. Also, find Virtual Machine Platform, click on the checkbox and press OK.
Enable virtual machine platform
  1. Wait for the installation to complete.

Are there implications of running APKs from third-party sites?

The safety of this approach is often questioned. Are you really installing what you think you are? Probably not from a random site you found on the Web. 

But when you have a choice between an app installed from a site you know and one that is not, there are other considerations. It’s worth reviewing those to make sure your risk profile is as low as it can be.

When installing APKs from third-party sites, Windows users need to be aware of the risks. Malware attacks are a growing threat. You need to make sure that your device is completely safe and secure. We have outlined some of the top antiviruses for your PC to keep you safe while browsing.

Are APK files safe?

Not all APKs are safe. Only download APKs from trusted sources. Avoid unverified websites, as APKs can hide malware, spyware, or programs that steal data and control your device. Stick to official app stores or the developer’s official site.

Watch for phishing scams that mimic legitimate sites to steal login or payment details. Always check the URL before entering sensitive information

Also, if you choose to use other Android emulators to run APKs and encounter installation problems, refer to our guide on how to resolve the issue.

Wrapping up

Now that you know how to install APK files on Windows, you should be able to install apps like Pikashow for Windows 11 without any problems.

We hope you found a way to open and install APKs from one or more of the methods we listed above. If you encounter any problems while running APKs, leave us a comment down below.

GPUpdate /Force Not Working? 5 Ways to Quickly Fix it

Gpupdate force is a command designed to forcefully apply updates on Windows machines. This means that if you have updates waiting to be installed but you haven’t applied them yet, this utility will force them to be installed immediately. 

The main reason why people use this tool is that it helps to update their machines as quickly as possible. It can also be used when you want to make sure that a policy setting is not applied or you want to troubleshoot why a particular setting is not working as expected.

Why is my GPO not being applied?

GPOs are applied on a computer-by-computer basis and can be applied in one of two ways:

  • Group Policy refresh – This occurs every 90 minutes by default and is the most common method for applying policies. You can easily change the time interval through the policy settings. 
  • Group Policy update – This occurs when someone logs into a computer or starts it up for the first time after a policy change has been made.

However, sometimes, your gpupdate/force command may not be working on your Windows 10 or 11 device. This is because:

  • No GPOs to be applied – Gpupdate will not work if there are no GPOs currently in effect for the user or computer in question.
  • Incorrect/missing registry entry – An incorrect or missing registry setting can prevent the GPUpdate command from applying changes made to your computer’s group policy settings. 
  • Virus/malware – If your system has been infected by malware or a virus, it can prevent this command from working properly. With a comprehensive antivirus, you can avoid such errors.
  • Corrupt user profile – A corrupted user profile can prevent certain operations like gpupdate force from completing successfully. 
  • Computer not connected to the domain – If your PC is not connected to the domain, then this could be causing the problem. GPUpdate only runs on computers that are joined to a domain. 
  • Insufficient privileges – It is also possible that the user account you’re using to execute the command does not have sufficient privileges to run the command.

How do I force the Gpupdate command to apply?

Before anything else, check off the following:

1. Delete the registry.pol file

  1. Hit the Windows + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the following location by pasting it on the address bar: C:\Windows\System32\GroupPolicy\Machine\
  3. Now, locate Registry.pol file and move or delete it. A safer option would be to move it to your desktop because you might want to restore this file if any new issues occur.corrupt local group policy
  4. Restart your PC and try running the command again.

2. Perform DISM and SFC scans

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd and select Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type the commands and hit Enter after each one: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth sfc /scannow

3. Restart Group Policy

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run command.
  2. Type services.msc in the dialog box and click OK.
  3. Locate the Group Policy Client and right-click on it to open its Properties.Group Policy Client Properties
  4. Select the General tab and change the Startup type to Automatic.
  5. Click the Apply button and OK to save changes.

4. Create a new user profile

There are times when you may have to create a new user profile and then use it to log on to your computer. This can be done for many reasons, but the most common is that there is an issue with your current user profile.

When creating the new user profile, don’t forget to assign administrative privileges that will enable you to make changes to the Group Policy Editor.

5. Reset Group Policy

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd and select Run as administrator.cmd-run-admin-w11 unexpected kernel mode trap windows 11
  2. Type in the following commands and press Enter after each one: RD /S /Q "%WinDir%\System32\GroupPolicyUsers" && RD /S /Q "%WinDir%\System32\GroupPolicy" gpupdate /forcerd user how to fix group policy error in windows 10
  3. Restart your PC.

If all these fail, consider using GPMC to troubleshoot your Group Policy issues. It is a powerful and intuitive tool that can help you resolve most of these issues including gpupdate/force command not working.

As a last resort, a clean install or in-place upgrade may be on the horizon if the command line is still not working.

We also have answers on what to do if your group policy keeps reverting so feel free to check out our detailed guide on the same.

Let us know if you have been able to resolve this issue in the comment section below.

Hidparse.sys BSOD Error: 5 Easy Ways to Fix It on Your PC

Hidparse.sys is a Windows driver, and sometimes you might get a blue screen after installing drivers. This is exactly the case with this file, and many reported this problem on their PC.

Sometimes these issues can occur after installing the driver manually or, in some cases, after a Windows update.

In today’s guide, we will take a closer look at this error and show you the best ways you can use to fix this problem once and for all.

What causes hidparse.sys blue screen error?

Several causes will result in this, but the most common are the following:

  • Bad Windows update – It’s not unheard of to experience BSOD error after the upgrade. In fact, even Microsoft confirmed that this issue can be caused by the KB5021233 update.
  • Corrupted files – Sometimes, the driver in question is damaged and needs to be repaired to work.
  • Driver version mismatch – A bad update can cause your driver version to be mismatched. To fix it, you’ll need to replace the bad driver manually.

What can I do to fix the HIDPARSE issue on Windows 10 22H2?

1. Disable driver signature enforcement and update Windows

  1. Restart your PC three times during the boot to enter the recovery environment.
  2. Go to Troubleshoot. Now select Advanced options and finally choose Startup Settings.
  3. Now click on Restart.
  4. When your PC restarts, press 7 or F7 to disable driver signature enforcement.
  5. Now you should boot to Windows.
  6. Press Windows key + S and type updates. Select Check for updates.
  7. Let Windows download the missing updates.

Microsoft has addressed this issue and the update that fixes hidparse.sys blue screen is already available, so updating your operating system is the best way to fix this issue.

2. Use SFC and DISM

  1. Disable Driver Signature Enforcement to boot to Windows. You can find instructions in Solution 1.
  2. Next, press the Windows key + X and choose PowerShell (Admin).
  3. Run the following command: sfc /scannow
  4. Once the command is finished, run these three commands:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth


    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. After these commands are executed, the problem should be resolved.
  6. Go ahead and check for updates to fix the issue permanently.

Following the steps above may seem too complicated for some, and this is why we recommend using a dedicated system repair software. These tools allow you to automatically scan for and fix system files.

3. Copy the file from the recovery environment

  1. Restart your system while booting to Windows three times.
  2. Select the Troubleshoot button.
  3. Next, choose the Advanced Options button.
  4. Select the Command Prompt button and wait for your device to restart, if needed.
  5. Your device should restart to a Command Prompt window. You might need to sign into your device with your password before getting to the Command Prompt window.
  6. Run the following command, then press Enter: xcopy C:\windows\system32\drivers\hidparse.sys C:\windows\system32\hidparse.sys
  7. Once the previous command completes, type: exit
  8. Select the Continue button.
  9. Windows should now start up as expected.

Many reported that they weren’t able to complete step 6, and this is because they used the incorrect letter. To fix that, follow these steps:

  1. Repeat the steps from above until step 6.
  2. Once you reach it, run the following command: diskpart
  3. Now enter list volume
  4. Notice the name of your drive, it can be C or something else.
  5. Type exit
  6. Now use the following command but be sure to replace C with the letter that matches your system drive: xcopy C:\windows\system32\drivers\hidparse.sys C:\windows\system32\hidparse.sys
  7. Close Command Prompt and try to boot.
Note icon NOTE
You can have one of the two versions of hidparse.sys file on your PC. One that dates 2021/04/28 and the other that dates to 2019/12/07. For this solution to work, you need to copy the 2021 version and not the 2019 one.

4. Disable Driver Signature Enforcement and rename the hidparse.sys file

  1. Disable Driver Signature Enforcement as described in Solution 1.
  2. Navigate to the following location: C:\Windows\System32\
  3. Locate hidparse.sys and rename it to hidparse.sys.old 
  4. Go to drivers folder inside the System32 folder.
  5. Locate hidparse.sys and copy it to System32 directory.
  6. If that doesn’t work, repeat the steps from Solution 1.

Many reported that Hidparse sys says access denied while using other solutions, so renaming the file might help.

5. Uninstall update or use System Restore

  1. Restart your PC three times to enter recovery mode.
  2. Choose Troubleshoot. After that, pick Advanced options.
  3. Select System Restore.
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen to restore your PC.

If the System Restore doesn’t work, it’s suggested to uninstall the update by doing the following:

  1. Restart your computer three times during the boot.
  2. Navigate to Troubleshoot. Next, select Advanced options.
  3. Choose Uninstall Updates.
     
  4. Choose the type of update you want to uninstall. We suggest going for Uninstall the latest quality update.
  5. Follow the steps to complete the process.
  6. If that doesn’t work, repeat the steps and choose Uninstall the latest feature update.

After doing that, install the latest updates to fix the issue permanently.

If you’re still having this issue, be sure to visit our guide on how to fix blue screen loop on Windows 10 for additional solutions.

We also have a guide on wdfilter.sys blue screen error, so don’t miss it for more information.

Leave a comment below if you also had to deal with these problems.

How to Download the Camera Driver in Windows 11 [Step-by-Step]

You need to download and install your camera driver in Windows 11 if you want it to work properly.

In general, Windows automates this process, but if you want to update the driver or you can’t find the camera in Device Manager, this guide is for you. We’ll show you all you need to know.

How do I download webcam drivers for Windows 11?

1. Use Device Manager

  1. Right-click on the Start icon and select Device Manager.device manager windows 11
  2. Expand the Cameras section.
  3. Right-click on your Camera and hit Update driver.device manager update camera driver
  4. Select Search Automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen instructions to finish up the process.search automatically for camera drivers windows 11

If you can’t find the Camera driver in Device Manager, click on View and select Show hidden devices.

hidden devices

2. Use the manufacturer’s website

  1. To check your camera’s model, right-click on the Start icon, then click on Device Manager to open it.device-manager google meet getting ready loop
  2. Now expand the Cameras section. There you will see the name of your camera’s model. Copy it as you will need it later.camera-model windows update troubleshooter windows 11
  3. Go to your manufacturer’s website and locate the corresponding drivers for your cameras model. .msi-support windows update troubleshooter windows 11
  4. Once you have found the matching driver, or the desired one such as HD user-facing driver for Windows 11, simply download and install it by following the on-screen instructions.

Downloads pages on most manufacturer websites are usually located under the Support area. For instance:

3. Use dedicated driver software

If you don’t have time to manually search for your camera model, you can speed up the process with a third-party driver updater.

When it comes to these tools, Fortect Driver Updater is a top choice. Itcan install and repair all the drivers on your system with very little effort on your part.

Moreover, ituses a very small amount of system resources so you can let it run in the background. It will regularly check and update your drivers whenever a new version becomes available.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

How do I get Windows 11 to recognize my camera?

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
  2. Select Bluetooth & Devices, then Cameras.cameras settings in bluetooth and devices
  3. Select Camera Privacy Settings.camera privacy settings
  4. Toggle on the button to allowcamera access.camera access settings

Bottom line

Having up-to-date drivers is key to maintaining good performance and preventing common camera problems like camera freezing.

Let us know in the comments section below whether you were able to download the Windows 11 camra driver.

We want to know which method worked best for you and whether you will switch to an external web camera.


Edge Out of Memory Error Code: 3 Ways to Free it up

If you encounter Error code out of memory in Edge, you won’t be able to browse the web, and certain pages might crash, but luckily, this issue can be easily resolved.

Why does my browser keep saying “out of memory”?

This issue appears if your browser is out of date or due to certain security settings.

How do I fix Out of memory error in Microsoft Edge?

Before we try anything, ensure you have the latest version of Edge installed.

1. Adjust Edge’s security settings

  1. Click the Menu button in the top right corner and choose Settings.
    edge menu settings
  2. Next, navigate to Privacy, search, and services in the sidebar. Locate and disable Enhance your security on the web.
    enhance your security on the web disable in edge
  3. Restart your browser.

2. Create a new user profile in your browser

  1. Open the Edge browser and click on the Personal icon at the top left of the browser window.profile icon microsoft edge
  2. Click the Setup New personal profile buttonset up a new personal profile edge
  3. You will be redirected to a new page where you can click Start without your datastart without your data
  4. On the next page click Confirm and start browsingconfirm and start browsing microsoft edge
  5. You will be prompted with color customization options, where you can choose whatever you like
  6. After choosing your color scheme a new window will open and you’ll already be on the newly created profilenew profile created microsoft edge

Alternatively, you can sign out and sign back in with a new account to fix this issue.

3. Modify the registry

  1. Press the Windows key + S and type cmd. Select Run as administrator.
    run command prompt as administrator
  2. Next, run the following command: reg add "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge" /v EnhanceSecurityMode /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f
    reg add enhancesecuritymode command prompt
  3. Check if the problem is resolved.

Most browsers also have this issue, and we have a guide on what to do if Opera is out of memory. This isn’t the only issue, and Not enough memory to open this page in Chrome is a similar error, but we already covered that one.

Which method helped you fix the error? Do not hesitate to let us know in the comments section below.

Fix Logitech G Hub Stuck on Loading Screen & Not Loading

The Logitech G Hub stuck on loading screen error is a common issue that occurs when you attempt to open an application and it will not execute, even when you run it in administrator mode.

There are a variety of reasons why the software could get stuck, but fortunately, we found four solutions that will certainly fix the error.

Logitech G Hub is a new version of their gaming software, which was produced in the early 2010s. The most significant difference is that G Hub is put out in a more intuitive manner, and since 2019, all products have been using it as their default interface.

Follow along as we have prepared a comprehensive list of solutions for you to implement right after we see the causes of this error. Note that the methods below will also work with the Logitech G Hub stuck on loading screen in Windows 10.

Why is my Logitech G Hub stuck on loading screen?

The causes range from outdated drivers, and faulty app installations to auto-updates that cause more trouble than good.

Due to the fact that G Hub is a driver software, it operates in the background automatically. Because LGHUB automatically installs new updates when they are released, when you run this program, it may become unresponsive owing to the updates that have been installed at that time.

You can permanently turn off auto-updates and resolve loading issues such as the Logitech G Hub stuck on loading animation. Now let’s see how to address these errors.

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

  • Logitech G Hub loading forever or constantly, keeps loading, not opening
  • G Hub infinite loading
  • Logitech G Hub stuck on logo
  • Logitech G Hub loading resources
  • G Hub stuck on loading animation
  • Logitech G Hub stuck on installing screen

Without further ado, let’s just jump right in!

How can I fix Logitech G Hub stuck on loading screen?

1. Reinstall Logitech G Hub

The linked processes are frequently not terminated when the Logitech G HUB client is uninstalled. You must therefore manually close them.

  1. Right-click the Windows Start button and choose Task Manager to close the Task Manager processes related to the Logitech G HUB.task-manager-right  Fix Logitech G Hub Stuck on Loading Screen
  2. Look for any Logitech G HUB client processes in the Task Manager. Find the processes, do a right-click, and then choose End task.end-task-logitech  Fix Logitech G Hub Stuck on Loading Screen
  3. There are three processes that you’ll probably find there: LGHUB, LGHUB Agent, and LGHUB Updater. Close them, then restart the client in administrator mode. The recently closed processes will be automatically restarted, which can assist you in fixing the problem.
  4. After terminating all G HUB-related processes in Task Manager, go to the following location: C:/Program Files/LGHUB directory
  5. Now execute each of these programs individually as an administrator by right-clicking each one with and selecting Run as administrator.
  6. Next, access your Settings app and go to Apps followed by the Apps and features section.apps-apps&features logitech g hub stuck on loading screen
  7. Here, search for the Logitech G Hub app, click on the three-dot menu and choose Uninstall.logi-uni logitech g hub stuck on loading screen
  8. Next, head to Logitech’s website and click on the Download for Windows 10 button in order to reinstall the app. Note that even though it says Windows 10, it will work on 11 as well. This solution should fix the Logitech G Hub not detecting mouse and keyboard as well.download-10 logitech g hub stuck on loading screen

More lighting effects such as Fixed, Screen Sampler, and Audio Visualizer effects, are among the additional features available in the Logitech G Hub.

In addition, G Hub is significantly more lightweight than Logitech Gaming Software. The former app always included firmware and software updates for all of the Logitech devices that were compatible with it, which added a significant amount of needless burden to the PC.

CCleaner is a great way to clean up any junk left on your computer after you’ve uninstalling programs. In fact, it will free up disk space and delate any useless files present on your device.

2. Update your drivers

  1. In order to solve the Logitech G Hub stuck on loading screen in Windows 11, access your Settings app and go to Windows Update followed by the Advanced options section.advanced-options logi
  2. Next, tap on the Optional Updates section to select all the driver updates shown to you. Lastly, click on Download and Install.optional-updates-button llogi

Device drivers are a critical piece of software that allows different hardware components to communicate with your computer in an efficient manner.

When device drivers are out of date, computers can become sluggish and suffer from apparent performance issues, which can be a major source of frustration and dissatisfaction.

3. Restart the LGHUB Services

  1. Press the Windows and R keys at the same time to launch Run then type services.msc and hit Enter.services can't remove bluetooth device windows 10
  2. Find the LGHUB Updater Service and stop the service by right-clicking it and selecting Stop. Right-click it once again and select Start to restart the service.stop-start-lghub Fix Logitech G Hub Stuck on Loading Screen & Not Loading

Restarting pertinent services can also help customers resolve app-related problems. Restart the LGHUB Updater service if restarting the processes doesn’t resolve the problem.

4. Disable Logitech G Hub automatic updates

  1. Open Logitech G Hub and go to Settings.settings-g logitech g hub stuck on loading screen
  2. Uncheck the box next to the Enable automatic updates option from the top-right corner. disable logitech g hub stuck on loading screen

Device drivers are a critical piece of software that allows different hardware components to communicate with your computer in an efficient manner.

When they are out of date, computers can become sluggish and suffer from apparent performance issues, which can be a major source of frustration and dissatisfaction.

5. Update your OS

  1. Hold Windows + I simultaneously in order to open the Settings app and go to Windows Update.windows-update logitech g hub not detecting mouse
  2. Tap on the button that either says Install now, Restart now, or Check for new updates in order to solve the Logitech G Hub stuck on loading screen error.restart-now logitech g hub not detecting mouse

For users who reported their Logitech G Hub got stuck on loading screen on Mac computers, we recommend that you disable automatic updates as we have shown in the third solution.

We have shown you how to fix the stuck on loading screen error, but if you need further assistance, check out our post on what to do if Logitech G Hub is not working.

Alternatively, take a look at how to fix the Logitech G Pro Wireless not working issue and get back to gaming.

Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!

Posted in Fix

Microsoft Edge’s February 2023 update will disable Internet Explorer 11

For some time now, Microsoft has been intending to retire Internet Explorer in favor of Microsoft Edge. And earlier this year on June 15, the company started phasing out Internet Explorer urging users to transition to its browser Edge which also received an IE Mode update to cater to the users’ needs as it replicates IE11 in so many ways.

Still, on the same premise, Microsoft released new information detailing its plans as far as completely phasing out IE11 from Windows 10 is concerned. The company detailed that it intends to kill it off completely next year on February 14 via a Microsoft Edge update.

The initial plan was to disable it via a Windows Update on Windows 10, but the company has shifted gears and will be disabling it through a Microsoft Edge update instead. This is in a bid to enhance the user experience and ultimately make the transition process for the users simpler.

After Microsoft started phasing out IE11, its users started being redirected to Microsoft Edge. And now, once Microsoft rolls out the Edge update in February users will no longer be able to access IE11. Both Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 users won’t be able to access it either.

According to Microsoft:

Users will see a dialogue box when they are transitioned to Microsoft Edge. When they try to click any IE11 icons or other entry points, they will be redirected to Microsoft Edge. Users’ browsing data will be automatically brought over to Microsoft Edge from IE11 so they can seamlessly continue browsing.

What’s more, Microsoft has disclosed that June’s Patch Tuesday update will erase any remnants of Internet Explorer from Windows 10, that is, its logo that appears in the Start menu or on the taskbar. We invite you to make the transition as soon as possible before IE11 reaches its end of support to avoid any setbacks.

Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

How to Use 2 Audio Outputs at the Same Time on Windows 10 [Tested]

You can configure Windows 10 to play sound from two connected playback devices simultaneously.

For instance, you can use two USB headphones at once on Windows as long as you properly configure both devices. Here’s how:

How do I use 2 audio outputs at once on Windows 10?

1. Enable Stereo Mix

  1. Right-click the Speakers icon on the system tray and select Sounds.
  2. Select the Playback tab shown in the snapshot directly below.
  3. Then select your primary speakers audio playback device and click Set as default. That will be one of the two playback devices that play the audio.
  4. Select the Recording tab shown directly below.
  5. Right-click a blank space on the Recording tab and select the Show Disabled Devices option. Then you will usually see Stereo Mix on the Recording tab.
  6. Right-click Stereo Mix and select the Enable option.
  7. Then right-click Stereo Mix to select the Set as Default Device option on its context menu.
  8. Click Properties on Stereo Mix’s context menu to open the Stereo Mix Properties window.
  9. Select the Listen tab on the Stereo Mix window.
  10. Then click the Listen to this device checkbox.
  11. Select the second playback device listed on the Playback this device drop-down menu.
  12. Click the Apply and OK buttons on both the Stereo Mix Properties and Sound window.
  13. Restart your desktop or laptop. Thereafter, Windows will play audio at the same time from your primary audio device and the one you selected on the Playback this device drop-down menu.

Setting the default device on your computer can help easily switch between headphones and speakers, read this guide to learn more about it.

2. Select Output Devices to play audio from specific apps

  1. To select audio output for specific software, right-click the Speakers icon and select Open Sound settings.
  2. Then click App volume and devices preferences to open the options shown in the image directly below.
  3. The Settings lists all your open apps. Click the Output drop-down menu adjacent to the software you need to select a playback device for.
  4. Then, you can select a connected playback device from the drop-down menu. Note that Windows will save the chosen output audio device to play audio when you open the software you selected it for.

There are various ways to use 2 audio outputs at the same time on Windows 10. You can rely on the built-in settings or use third-party tools.

Check out the recommendation above and pick the option that best suits your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask below.

High CPU Usage in Roblox: 5 Ways to Fix It

High CPU usage in Roblox is a common issue that causes FPS drops and stuttering in games. It can even cause the game to crash. The game can be quite resource-intensive when playing with lots of people or using a lot of graphics. 

This article will take you through some of the most common causes of high CPU usage in Roblox and how to fix them.

Why is the game using 100% of my CPU?

If you’ve ever run a game and seen the CPU usage shoot up to 100%, you might have wondered how this is possible. It’s not that the CPU is being used so hard by the game that it can’t handle any other tasks, but rather that it uses all available cores to run itself.

This can happen for a variety of reasons:

  • Old game – You’re probably playing an older game that hasn’t been optimized for modern hardware. You can upgrade your CPU or play games optimized for old processors.
  • Outdated OS – Older OSes don’t include support for multi-core processors. This will help reduce CPU usage when running these old games so the best option is to upgrade your OS.
  • Resource-hungry game – Some games just require more processing power than others and will demand more resources than your computer can provide.

That being said, games that use 100% of your CPU are not necessarily bad. The reason they’re using so much CPU is to achieve the highest possible frame rate. 

So just how much CPU should Roblox use? If you have a high-end gaming PC or laptop, then there’s nothing to worry about when running Roblox. 

However, if your PC or laptop is below average and you want to play the game without issues, then it’s better that you know what kind of hardware and system requirements Roblox requires before playing it for the first time.

How do I limit Roblox’s high CPU usage?

Some basic things you can do to reduce CPU usage in Roblox include:

  • Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements to run Roblox.
  • Close all other programs running on your computer while playing Roblox as they might be using up some of your computer’s resources.
  • Uninstall any unnecessary programs.

1. Adjust your graphic settings 

If you have an old PC or laptop, then it’s possible that your computer may not be able to handle high graphic settings in Roblox. This will make your programs compete for the available CPU.

In such cases, lowering the graphic settings will help you get rid of this problem as well as increase your frame rate and improve overall performance.

2. Disable Hardware Acceleration 

  1. Launch your browser (in this case Opera) and click on the icon at the top left corner to open the menu.
  2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.opera settings
  3. Click on Advanced then hit Browser from the drop-down menu.
  4. Scroll down and under System, toggle off Use hardware acceleration when available. 

Hardware acceleration basically improves the performance of graphics and sound but takes up more resources at the same time causing high CPU usage in Roblox. The steps to disable it will be different for each browser, but with this example, you get the main idea.

3. Update your drivers

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

If you don’t know which drivers are causing problems on your PC because they’re not working properly anymore, manual updates can be time-consuming and still end up in a disaster. Luckily, there are other ways to approach this issue – a third-party tool.

Outbyte Driver Updater is a powerful yet simple Windows driver updater tool. It can help you easily update your outdated display card drivers, network card drivers, and other hardware drivers to their latest versions.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Boost your gaming experience and use Outbyte Driver Updater to keep your drivers updated at all times.
Free Trial Download now

4. Check for malware

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

5. Update your PC’s software

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Select Windows Update and click on Check for updates.check-updates-w11 windows 11 blue screen
  3. Download and install if available.

Is Roblox using CPU or GPU?

Roblox is not a game that uses graphics cards to render graphics although, in some instances, you may experience Roblox with high GPU usage. Normally, it uses your computer’s CPU to process the graphics, which means it’s less dependent on your graphics card.

That being said, if your computer doesn’t have a good processor, you’ll notice lower framerates in Roblox games. If you want to improve your framerate in Roblox, one option is upgrading your CPU. 

Another option would be to make Roblox use GPU instead of your CPU especially if you have a multi-core processor. You can turn on hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling to take off the load on your CPU if Roblox CPU usage is high.

And as we wind up, you can also reset your browser or switch to gaming browsers if you’re still facing high CPU usage issues with Roblox.

We also have a solution for when you experience high ping and lag in Roblox so feel free to check our comprehensive article on the same.

Let us know if you’ve noticed an improvement in Roblox’s CPU usage after trying our solutions in the comments section below.

Fix Error Code 0x887a0005 [Video Editor / Photos, MW2, CoD]

Photos is the default image viewer app in Windows 10 that some users create and export videos with. However, Microsoft Photos displays an error 0x887A0005 when some users try to export videos with that app.

When some users click the Finish video button, Photos displays this error message:

Update your drivers to export video… We encountered an issue with your video drivers and are unable to export video… Here’s the error code, in case you need it: 0x887A000.

If that’s your issue as well, take a closer look at the tips and tricks described below. One of them will probably help you get things back to normal.

This guide focuses on photos/video editor error 0x887A0005 , but some of the solutions below will also help if you’re experiencing this issue while gaming (CoD, MW2).

What is error code 0x887a0005?

According to the notification that appears when you click on the error, the application has suddenly ceased working. Error Code: 0x887a0005 is typically caused by damaged game files or problems with the graphics driver.

Drivers are essentially software programs that assist your system in properly communicating with its hardware. As a result, if your system’s drivers are out of date or if any critical drivers are missing, it will not function as you want it to.


This is exactly why you got the error code 887a0001 on your computer. Drivers are critical components of your system.

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

  • 0x887a0005 (0x887a0006)
  • Error code 0x887a0005 Modern Warfare 2/MW2, Vanguard, Warzone 2, Call of Duty/CoD
  • 0x887a0005 dxgi_error_device_removed
  • Error code 0x887a0005 (0x887a002b) (6456) d
  • Video editor error code 0x887a0005 – movie maker error 0x887a0005, Microsoft video editor error code 0x887a0005
  • Dx12 error code 0x887a0005
  • Update your drivers to export video 0x887a0005

Without further ado, let’s jump right in!

How do I fix error code 0x887a0005?

1. Update your PC’s graphics card drivers

The 0x887A0005 error message says the app encountered an issue with video drivers. Thus, updating your PC’s drivers to export video is a likely remedy.

Scanning the computer with professional driver updater software will tell you if its GPU drivers are outdated (or faulty) and enable you to quickly update them.

2. Run the troubleshooter

  1. First, open the Start menu.
  2. Click Settings in your Start menu to open that app.
  3. Next, click Update & Security > Troubleshoot to open the options shown directly below.
    Troubleshoot tab error code 0x887a0005
  4. Then click Additional troubleshooters to open the list of Windows 10 troubleshooters.
  5. Select Windows Store Apps in the list, and click the Run the troubleshooter button.
  6. When you’ve gone through the troubleshooter, restart your PC.

3. Reset Photos

  1. Bring up the search tool in Windows 10 by clicking the magnifying glass taskbar button.
  2. Type the keyword apps in the search utility.
  3. Click Apps & features in the search tool’s results to open the window shown below.
    Apps & features tab error code 0x887a0005
  4. Select the Microsoft Photos app.
  5. Then click Advanced options to open the Reset button.
    The Repair button error code 0x887a0005
  6. Press the Reset button there.
  7. Click Reset again on the confirmation prompt that appears.
  8. Note that you can also press a Repair button there. If resetting Microsoft Photos doesn’t do the trick, try clicking the Repair option as well.

4. Reinstall Photos

  1. Open the search box by clicking its taskbar button.
  2. To find the Command Prompt, input cmd in the search utility.
  3. Open an elevated Command Prompt by clicking its Run as administrator option on the right side of Windows 10’s search tool.
  4. Next, type this text into the Command Prompt: get-appxpackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | remove-appxpackage
    The uninstall Photos command error code 0x887a0005
  5. Press the Return key to uninstall Photos with the entered command.
  6. Restart your laptop or desktop after uninstalling Photos.
  7. Open the Microsoft Photos app page in your browser.
  8. Click the Get button on the Photos app page.
  9. Then select the Open Microsoft Store option.
    The Get button error code 0x887a0005
  10. Press the Get button in MS Store to install Photos.

5. Update Windows 10

  1. Launch Settings by holding the Windows key and pressing I.
  2. Select Update & Security to open the update options below.
    Windows Update tab error code 0x887a0005
  3. Press the Check for updates button to download and install available patch updates.
  4. If you can update Windows 10 to a new build, click the Download and Install option to get the latest version.

6. Turn off hardware-accelerated video encoding in Photos

  1. Open the Photos app window.
  2. Click the See more menu button at the top right corner of Photos.
  3. Select the Settings option on the menu that opens.
  4. Then scroll down the window to the Use hardware-accelerated video encoding when available option shown directly below.
  5. Toggle off the Use hardware-accelerated video encoding setting.

7. Clear the MS Store cache

  1. Open the search box with the Windows + S key combo.
  2. Type WSReset.exe in the search box.
  3. Right-click the WSReset.exe search result to select a Run as administrator option for it.
  4. Wait for the blank WSReset.exe window to close and the MS Store to open. Thereafter, try exporting your videos in Photos again.

Those are the most probable resolutions for fixing the error code 0x887A0005 Photos issue. As users have confirmed some of these tricks, they’re certainly worth a try.

Moreover, if the Microsoft Photos app has disappeared, we’ve got a few quick fixes for that as well. After all, no issue is there to remain unsolved.

For further information on Microsoft Photos, take a look at how to fix Microsoft.Photos.exe high memory usage and optimize your computer.

Let us know in the comments section if you found our solutions helpful. We’d love to hear your opinion.

Fix Another Installation is in Progress Error on Windows

Is there a worse thing than being unable to install a third-party application as, seemingly, something else is currently installed in the background?

That’s the whole deal with the Another installation is already in progress error on Windows 10. Any solutions? More than a few, actually.

How do I know if the installation is stuck?

The best way of knowing if another installation is in progress is to check the Windows Installer service.

What is Install in progress?

As the message clearly suggests, although you might not even see that, probably another program or update is being installed at the same time.

This issue usually occurs in Microsoft Office but it can happen with any other software. Here are some other examples of the error:

  • Installation failed, another installation is already in progress
  • Another installation is already in progress in Veeam
  • Another installation is already in progress in Microsoft Office, Adobe, Google
  • Another installation is already in progress in AutoCAD
  • Another installation is in progress Epic Games
  • Another installation is already in progress in Python , Java, Node JS, SCCM
  • Autodesk: Another installation is in progress
  • Error 1500/1618: Another installation is in progress. You must complete – another installation is already in progress. Complete that installation before proceeding (0x80070652)
  • Sophos another installation is already in progress
  • SCCM another installation is in progress
  • Windows setup cannot be launched while another instance of setup is already running
  • Another installation is in progress Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 7
  • Cannot start another instance of the installer while this instance is running
  • Your machine is busy installing a program other than Visual Studio

For all these errors, you will find a suitable solution below and things are going to return to normal.

Right below, in our first solution, you will learn how to do that and even restart the service to fix this issue.

But don’t worry because here, we’re going to show you how to fix that error on Windows 10.

How do I fix Another installation is in progress?

1. Restart the Windows Installer service

  1. Press the Windows key + R to start Run, type services.msc, and press Enter or click OK.
  2. Scroll down, find Windows Installer, and double-click on it.
  3. Look at the Service status and if it reads Running, just click the Stop button below.
  4. Then, wait for a few seconds and press the Start button again.
  5. Close the Services window and check if the problem is resolved.

Windows relies on its services in order to run properly, and there’s a service called Windows Installer that’s in charge of installing new software.

Whenever you try to install a new application, this service will start and help you install it.

Sometimes, certain repair or uninstall processes can start automatically in the background, and it can require Windows Installer service in order to run.

If you try to install another software while Windows Installer is running, you’ll encounter this error.

One of the simplest ways to fix this problem is to open the Services window and restart the Windows Installer service just like we described in the solution above.

2. End the Windows Installer process

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Task Manager.
  2. Navigate to the Processes tab and locate Windows Installer.
  3. Right-click it and choose End task from the menu. Often you’ll see a 32-bit and 64-bit version of Windows Installer running. If you have multiple Windows Installer processes running be sure to stop them both.
    kill Windows Installer process in Task Manager Another installation is already in progress
  4. Close Task Manager and try to install the application again.

As we previously mentioned, the Windows Installer service is in charge of installing new applications on your PC.

Windows Installer process is related to this service, and according to some users, you can fix this problem simply by ending the Msiexec process using Task Manager.

3. Disable Windows Installer service and restart your PC

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run console, input services.msc, and press Enter or click OK.
  2. Scroll down and double-click on Windows Installer.
  3. Set the Startup Type to Disabled and click Apply and OK to save the changes.
  4. After doing that, restart your PC.
  5. After your PC restarts, open the Services window again.
  6. Locate Windows Installer service and open its properties.
  7. Set the Startup Type to Manual and click OK and Apply to save the changes.
  8. Close Services window and try to perform the installation again.

Windows Installer service is a common culprit for Another installation is already in progress error, and if restarting the service doesn’t help, you might want to temporarily disable it.

A few of our readers also reported that they fixed the problem simply by changing the Startup Type of Windows Installer service to Automatic just as described in our solution above.

4. Perform Disk Cleanup

  1. Click Start, enter disk cleanup in the search window, and select Disk Cleanup from the menu.
  2. Select the system drive, by default it should be C:, and click OK. Wait while Disk Cleanup scans your PC.
    system drive disk cleanup installation is already in progress
  3. Select all options and click the OK button to clean your disk.
    clean your system disk cleanup Another installation is already in progress
  4. Wait for the process to finish and try to install the software again.

Few of our readers reported that performing Disk Cleanup fixed the issue for them. It seems that Another installation is already in progress error is caused by temporary files left by previous installations.

By running Disk Cleanup you’ll easily remove any temporary files left by older installations.

For more advanced clean-up we advise you to check some of the best tools to delete junk files that we selected.

Sometimes errors like this show up because of corrupt files, like installers in our case. This can only be resolved by finding a good version of it with no issues.

For this kind of situation, we use third-party software that searches your system for corrupted files and replaces them with original Windows files from its database.

5. Perform a Clean Boot

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter msconfig. Press Enter or click OK.
    run window msconfig Another installation is already in progress
  2. Go to Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services option and then click on Disable all.
    hide all microsoft services system configuration window installation already in progress
  3. Now go to Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager.
    disable programs from starting with the system task manager
  4. A list of all available startup items will appear. Right-click each item on the list and choose Disable from the menu.
    disable startup programs task manager different installation is already in progress
  5. After disabling all startup items, close Task Manager.
  6. Go back to System Configuration window and click Apply and OK to save the changes.
  7. Restart your PC.

When your PC restarts, check if the problem still persists. If the issue is resolved, it means that a third-party application or service was causing the problem.

To identify the problem, open System Configuration window and turn on disabled services one by one.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to restart your PC after enabling a service in order to apply changes. Be sure to repeat the same process in Task Manager for Startup applications.

6. Check your Registry

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter regedit, then click OK or press Enter.
    run windows regedit installation in progress
  2. In the left pane navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsInstaller\InProgress
  3. If you can’t find this key, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Installer
  4. In the right pane locate the Default value and double-click it. Delete the values from Data value field and click OK to save changes.
  5. Close Registry Editor.
  6. Set the Startup type of the Windows Installer service to Disabled just like in Solution 3.
  7. Restart your PC and set the Startup type for Windows Installer to Manual.

Sometimes this problem can be caused by certain values in your registry, so you’ll have to manually edit those values.

Editing your registry can be a dangerous process, so we recommend that you export your registry and use it as a backup in case anything goes wrong.

7. Uninstall and reinstall Office

  1. Download the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant.
  2. After the download is finished, run the tool and follow the instructions to remove Office from your PC.
  3. Once the uninstall process is finished, restart your computer.
  4. After that, try to install Office again and check if the problem is resolved.

Users reported Another installation is already in progress error message while installing Microsoft Office. This can occur because another Office installation or update was running in the background when you started the setup.

To fix this problem, check for the Office icon in the system tray to see if the installation is running. If Office is installing or updating, you’ll need to wait for the process to finish.

If there’s no Office icon in the system tray, you need to uninstall and reinstall Office.

If the problem persists, consider using a professional-level tool. Unfortunately, some apps are really difficult to uninstall completely.

They leave behind residual files that will interfere with the functionality of your system, in one way or another.

We recommend trying one of the best uninstaller software available because they are equipped with up-to-date technologies that detect and safely remove the smallest traces of any app.

8. Uninstall Java and download offline installer

  1. Press Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Choose Apps.
  3. Locate Java on the list and click the Uninstall button to remove it.

Users reported this error message while installing Java on their PC. To fix this problem you need to uninstall your current version of Java.

After Java is uninstalled from your PC, you need to download offline installation of Java. After you download it, start it and follow the instructions on the screen.

9. Re-register Windows Installer

  1. Press the Start button, type cmd, and select Run as administrator from the list.
  2. When Command Prompt starts, you need to enter the following lines:
    • msiexec.exe /unregister
      msiexec /regserver
  3. After both commands are executed, close Command Prompt and check if the problem is resolved.

In most cases, this error is caused by Windows Installer, and one potential solution is to re-register Windows Installer.

10. Create a new Windows user

  1. Press Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Select Accounts, then click on Family & other users.
  3. In Other people section select Add someone else to this PC.
    family & other people settings windows 10 installation in progress
  4. Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
    enter sign-in information Another installation is already in progress
  5. Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  6. Set the username for the new user account and click Next. If you want, you can also protect the new account with a password.
    create an account for this PC installation already in progress

If none of the previous solutions work, your Windows user profile might be corrupted. If that’s the case, you’ll need to create a new user profile and use it instead.

After creating a new user account, log out of our current account and switch to the new one. Check if the error message appears on a new user account.

If everything is in order, you might want to move your personal files to a new account and start using it as your main account.

11. Fix the Another installation is in progress error for Visual Studio 2015

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter or click OK.
  2. When Registry Editor starts, navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager
  3. In the right pane locate PendingFileRenameOperations value. Right-click it and choose Delete from the menu. We have to mention that deleting values from the registry can lead to certain problems, so we advise you to create a backup of your registry just in case.modify PendingFileRenameOperations dword in regedit installation in progress
  4. After deleting this value, close Registry Editor.
  5. Try to install Visual Studio 2015 again.

Another installation is already in progress error can appear while installing any application, and users reported that it appears while installing Visual Studio 2015.

To fix this problem, you need to delete a single value from your registry. This is relatively simple, but before you make any changes to your registry, we strongly advise that you create a backup.

By doing so, you can remedy any potential issues that can occur after modifying the registry.

How do I stop background installation?

The quickest and easiest way to stop a background installation is to stop the Windows Installer service.

You have the full indications on how to do that right in Solution 1 of this guide.

Another installation is already in progress error will prevent you from installing new software. This can be a tedious problem, but we hope that you solved it by using one of our solutions.

You should also consult our guide on what to do if the Windows 11 Installation Assistant disappeared.

If you have any suggestions on how to fix this problem, we’re waiting for your input in the comments section below.

Darktide Error 4008: How to Fix The Failed Handshake Timeout

The Warhammer 40000: Darktide is a first-person action video game newly released on Windows. Despite being recently released, users have reported Darktide error 4008: failed handshake timeout error.

You can also check out Darktide error 4001 reported by users for a quick fix.

What causes error 4008 in Darktide?

The Darktide error code 4008 occurs when a client PC fails to connect to the server for a specified time. The error occurs to prevent the device from a continuous standby response from the server.

Some of the factors that can cause Darktide errors 4008 are:

  • Network connection issues – Darktide error 4008 failed handshake occurs when the client cannot secure a server connection to join the game within a specific time frame. Issues with network congestion and a slow internet connection can cause the error.
  • System requirement compatibility – Devices not compatible with the minimum requirements can interfere with its activities. It can result in frequent crashes and errors that prevent users from being Abbie to play their games.
  • Third-party app interference – Background running of other third-party apps like antivirus can hinder the client PC from securing a connection with the game server. So, the activities of Darktide can be impeded by other apps.

How do I fix error 4008 in Darktide?

Here are a few preliminary steps to apply:

If the error keeps appearing, proceed with the following steps.

1. Disable Windows Defender’s Real-Time Protection

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

Disabling the Windows Defender Real-time protection will resolve any effect of the Windows defender affecting the game.

2. Check the integrity of the game file

  1. Left-click the Start button and type Steam, then double-click to open it.
  2. Select the Library tab and search for Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.
  3. Right-click the game and select Properties from the drop-down.
  4. Click the Local Files tab and select the Verify Integrity of Game Files button.

Checking the game’s integrity will verify and fix all the games’ corrupt or missing files. Read more on the ways to verify the integrity of game files not working for more advanced steps.

3. Update the Warhammer 40000: Darktide

  1. Left-click the Start button and type Steam, then double-click to open it.
  2. Click the Library tab and click on Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.
  3. Right-click the game and select Properties from the drop-down.
  4. Go to the Updates tab and select the Always keep this game up-to-date option from the automatic updates menu.

Updating the Warhammer 40,000: Darktide will fix all bugs and errors in the current version allowing the app to run smoothly.

4. Run the Warhammer 40,000: Darktide game as an administrator

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
  2. Locate the Warhammer: Darktide app. Right-click on the .exe file and select Properties.
  3. Navigate to Compatibility, check the box for Run as administrator, and click Apply, then OK.

Running Warhammer 40,000: Darktide as administrator will give the app permission to perform more tasks effectively and allow user access control.

You can check our guide on ways to fix run as administrator not working in Windows.

In conclusion, our readers can check Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach issues and some helpful fixes you can use. We also have a guide on Darktide backend error and Darktide error 9999 so don’t miss it.

If you have further queries or questions and suggestions about this guide, kindly drop them in the comments section.

Posted in PC

Teams Premium preview is now available for trial, says Microsoft

As reported in October during the annual developer conference, Ignite, Microsoft announced that it will be unveiling the new Microsoft Teams Premium add-on in preview this month. The offering comes with a host of new features that are designed to enhance the meeting experience by personalizing it and making it more secure with end-to-end encryption.

Last week, the company announced that the add-on is now available in public preview for commercial customers as a 30-day free trial. You can access it via the Microsoft 365 Admin Centre. This means that users will now have access to features like live translations, intelligent meeting recaps, advanced meeting protections, and more.

IT admins can also leverage this add-on to extend their organization’s brand and company culture with branding, and organization backgrounds. Since Teams Premium is powered by AI, you can use it to make the meetings you attend or miss more productive and impactful. Through the combined efforts of the live translations feature and intelligent recap, you’ll now be able to achieve this.

It is worth noting that you’ll not be able to access all the features we highlighted during the Ignite event just yet. Features like intelligent recap and custom branding for meetings will be rolled out sporadically between now and January 2023.

Once the trial period runs out, you’ll lose access to the add-on, however, it is expected to hit general availability in February 2023. You’ll need to make a monthly payment of $10 for this offering.