Updates.exe: What Is It & How It Differs From Update.exe

Numerous files get installed on Windows either through updates or download files. These files can be legitimate, while some are malware or viruses. However, the updates.exe file is one of those files users should take note of.

Another file you should remove is the SLU_Updater.exe pop-up message on Windows PCs.

What is updates.exe?

Many users complain about seeing the updates.exe file on their computer and don’t know what it means or does. It is an executable file for the Windows Operating System because of the .exe file extension against it.

Furthermore, Trojan:Win32/Sulunch!gmb or Trojan:Win32/Tookibe.B!bit (detected by Microsoft), and Trojan.Win32.Scar.fwsf or Trojan.Win32.Scar.lpco (detected by Kaspersky) has been identified to share this name.

Is updates.exe different from update.exe?

The updates.exe file is slightly different from the update.exe file. Their basic differences are:

  • The difference in spelling – Most users don’t notice the difference in spelling. However, the two files are different and mean different entities, though similar in some cases.
  • A variance of different apps – They are different in that update.exe is a variant of the IRCBot family of worms and IRC backdoor Trojans. It appears as an error message. While the updates.exe file is a Windows executable file, as said earlier.

Nevertheless, updates.exe and update.exe only have one thing in common: they can be malware or viruses. That is, their presence can be dangerous to your computer.

How do I fix the updates.exe error?

Go through the following before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting:

If you can’t fix the error, go ahead with the following solutions.

1. Run the SFC and DISM to repair damaged system files

  1. Left-click the Start button, type Command Prompt, then select Run as administrator.
  2. Click Yes if the User Account Control prompt appears.
  3. Type the following and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  4. Type the following commands and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Restart your PC and check if the updates.exe still appears.

The SFC and DISM scan will detect corrupt system files and restore the corrupted files. Check how to fix the run as administrator option not working on their PCs.

Sometimes, performing the SFC and DISM scan manually can take some time, thus we also recommend you try using a dedicated repair tool to do that automatically.

This software can help you scan your device and offer you a detailed report afterward with your missing or corrupt system files and then proceed to locate healthy parts as replacements.

2. Run System Restore

  1. Left-click the Start button and type Restore, then click on Create a Restore Point.
  2. Go to the System Protection tab and select System Restore.
  3. Choose a different system restore and click Next to select a specific restore point.
  4. Select the last time your PC worked perfectly, and click Next.
  5. Click the Finish button.

System Restore backdates your PC to the last time it functioned properly, removing the corrupt files like updates.exe. Check how to fix the Restore point if it’s not working and if you have any issues running it.

3. Uninstall recently installed software

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK to open Program and Features.
  2. Go to Add Or Remove Programs Option, select the program to remove, and then click the Uninstall button.
  3. Follow the on-screen prompt to complete the process, then restart your PC.

The updates.exe file can be a file for an app recently installed on your PC. So, uninstalling the app should fix it. Read about other ways to uninstall applications on your PC.

4. Update Windows OS

  1. Press Windows + I key to open the Windows Settings app.
  2. Select Updates & Security.
  3. Click on Windows Update and select Check for updates.

If there are any updates available, it will search for and install them.

Updating Windows OS will fix bugs on your PC and update your drivers. It can resolve the updates.exe error. Read about fixing Windows not connecting to update service if the error occurs on your PC.

Conclusively, our readers can check the best antivirus software for Windows PCs to protect their computers. We also have a guide on App_updater.exe, so you might want to check it out.

Let us know which solutions worked for you in the comments area below.

Display Driver Uninstaller Guide: How to Use DDU Correctly

Having the latest drivers installed on your Windows 10 PC is crucial if you want to ensure maximum performance and stability.

However, sometimes issues with drivers can emerge, and you might have to remove certain drivers from your PC.

If you’re having problems with your graphics card and you need to remove its drivers, you might be interested in a tool called DDU: Display Driver Uninstaller.

Is DDU available for download?

Yes, this software is available for download, and you can use it if you need to uninstall Nvidia drivers completely from your PC. The software will remove the drivers and all their traces from your computer.

It’s also possible to use this software if you want to roll back NVIDIA drivers to the older version if the current one is giving you issues.

It’s important to mention that you can use this tool to uninstall AMD drivers and any other type of GPU drivers, so be sure to give it a try.

Display Driver Uninstaller is a great tool and, in this article, we’re going to cover the following issues:

  • Uninstall Nvidia drivers Windows 10 – If you have problems with your Nvidia drivers, you should be able to completely uninstall them using this tool.
  • How to use DDU – Display Driver Uninstaller is a simple to use a tool, and in this article, we’ll show you how to use it properly.
  • Display Driver Uninstaller AMD, Intel, Nvidia – DDU can remove almost any graphics card driver from your PC. The tool fully works with AMD, Nvidia and Intel drivers.
  • Display Driver Uninstaller Safe Mode – Sometimes in order to remove a certain driver, it’s advised that you remove it from Safe Mode. Display Driver Uninstaller can automatically enter Safe Mode and remove the problematic driver from your PC.
  • Nvidia display driver deletion of old versions – If you want to completely delete old versions of Nvidia drivers, DDU might be the perfect tool for you.
  • Display Driver Uninstaller portable – Display Driver Uninstaller is a fully portable application and you don’t have to install it in order to run it.
  • AMD display driver uninstall clean – If you’re having any problems with the AMD display driver and you want to completely remove it from your PC, DDU is the perfect tool for you.

Should I use DDU before installing new GPU?

When doing a driver upgrade, it is not necessary to run DDU prior to installing newer drivers on top of the previous versions of the drivers.

If you are experiencing problems that are related to your graphics card, you can use DDU to check and make sure that there are no hidden files that are influencing the drivers.

How do you use DDU 2022?

Display Driver Uninstaller is a freeware third-party application designed to remove your graphics card drivers.

Sometimes you might experience issues with your graphics card. In order to fix those issues, you might have to reinstall the graphics card drivers.

What does DDU do?

You can always remove the graphics card driver from Device Manager or by using its dedicated uninstaller.

However, the Display Driver Uninstaller allows you to thoroughly remove the driver from your PC. As you might have noticed, certain drivers can leave installation packages or registry entries once you uninstall them.

The Display Driver Uninstaller will remove all files associated with your graphics card including the installation packages and registry entries.

Sometimes it can occur that you can’t uninstall the graphics card driver due to a certain error in Windows 10, and this is why tools such as DDU can be helpful.

If you’re worried that the currently installed driver is causing any issues on your system, you can completely remove it from your PC by using this tool.

Since this is such a powerful tool, it’s recommended that you create a System Restore point before using it.

In case anything goes wrong while removing the driver you can easily restore your system by using the System Restore point.

If you’re interested in more info on how to create a restore point and how would that help you, take a look at this simple article to find out everything you need to know.

It’s also recommended that you add DDU to the list of exclusions in your antivirus software so it can have full control over your system while removing the driver.

Can I use DDU in normal mode?

Yes, you can. But if you wonder If you wonder how to use DDU in Safe Mode, you can follow the steps above, right after you enter Safe Mode.

    How to use DDU

    In order to remove drivers using DDU, all you have to do is download and install the app. Then, select the desired removal option.

    Display Driver Uninstaller works with Nvidia, AMD, and Intel drivers.

  1. 1. Download the latest version of Display Driver Uninstaller.

  2. 2. The installer tool for DDU will be downloaded as a 7zip archive. Locate the downloaded file and double-click it.

    How to use DDU installer
  3. 3. Now you’ll be asked to extract the tool. Choose the extract location and click Extract.

    Display Driver Uninstaller AMD
  4. 4. After the tool is extracted, double click the Display Driver Uninstaller icon to start it.

    Display Driver Uninstaller Safe Mode
  5. 5. You should see a warning message saying that it’s recommended to use this tool in Safe Mode. You can boot to Safe Mode simply by choosing the Safe Mode option from the Launch option menu.

  6. 6. After selecting Safe Mode click the Reboot button. You can also run the application without using the Safe Mode simply by choosing the Normal option from the Launch option menu.

  7. 7. When Display Driver Uninstaller opens, the log will show you the information regarding your graphics card. You can also choose the graphics card driver from the menu on the right, but in most cases, Display Driver Uninstaller should automatically detect your graphics card driver.

  8. 8. You’ll see three buttons available on the left side. If you’re installing a new driver for your graphics card, simply select Clean and restart button.

    Nvidia display driver delete old versions
  9. 9. If you’re installing a new graphics card, you can use Clean and shutdown button to remove the driver and turn off the PC.

  10. 10. There’s also an option to clean the driver without a system restart, but this option can sometimes cause some minor issues with your PC.

  11. 11. After selecting the desired option, wait while Display Driver Uninstaller removes the driver.

After the PC restarts, your display driver will be completely removed, and all driver-related issues with your graphics card will be resolved.

Now you just need to install a new driver for your graphics card and check if the problem is resolved.

⇒ Get Display Driver Uninstaller

How to uninstall drivers in Safe Mode in Windows 10?

  1. Click the Start button, hold the Shift key and click the Power button. While holding the Shift key select the Restart option.
    Uninstall Nvidia drivers Windows 10 restart the system
  2. When your PC restarts select Troubleshoot, select Advanced options, choose Startup Settings and click the Restart button.
  3. You’ll see a list of options. Select any version of Safe Mode by pressing the appropriate number on your keyboard.
  4. After Safe Mode starts, run Display Driver Uninstaller and follow the instructions above to delete your display driver.

If you don’t manage to access Safe Mode from Display Driver Uninstaller, you can run the tool directly from Safe Mode by performing the steps above.

And if Windows won’t boot into Safe Mode from the first try, don’t panic. We will help you overcome any booting problems that might come along.

As you can see, the Display Driver Uninstaller is a simple yet powerful tool. You don’t even need to install it on your PC to make the most of it.

Needless to say, this means that you can easily run the tool on any PC.

As far as compatibility is concerned, Display Driver Uninstaller will seamlessly work with older versions of Windows, plus it supports both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.

We also have to mention that this tool has support for multiple languages, so it’s quite possible that your native language is available in the list of translations.

Alternatively, you can go for an even better-equipped program such as expert driver removal software to get the job done.

Simple, yet highly effective, DDU will be useful to both advanced and rookie-level users. So, make sure you give it a go.

This is a great tool that can help you if the GeForce Experience driver downloads but doesn’t install, or with other problems, so don’t miss it.

If you have any other questions about DDU, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

PEX-Catalog Availability Data Not Found: How to Fix It?

If you are trying to make an in-app purchase on Microsoft Store but are stuck with PEX-Catalog Availability Data Not Found error message, you are not alone. Unfortunately, it is pretty standard and can be fixed in no time.

Here, we will walk you through the methods to get rid of this error message right after discussing the causes for the same.

What causes the PEX-Catalog Availability Data Not Found error?

There can be a lot of reasons for this error to come up. We have listed some of the common ones here: 

  • Slow internet connection – If the internet connection is flaky or is not working correctly, you might get the error when accessing Xbox Game Pass.
  • Incorrect date and time – While connecting to the server, the app checks your region, date, and time. If the date and time are not set according to your region, you might get the error. Change the date and time and try again.

What can I do to fix the PEX-Catalog Availability Data Not Found error?

Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, please go through these preliminary checks: 

  • Restart your computer.
  • Check for Windows Updates.
  • Set time and date according to your region.

1. Update Store apps

  1. Go to Search, type Microsoft Store, and click Open.
  2. On the app, in the left-hand corner, click Library.
  3. Now click Get updates.Get Updates
  4. If any update is available, click Update all, select an individual app, and click Update.Update all

2. Reset the Microsoft Store app

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps, then click Installed apps.Apps - Installed apps -pex-catalog availability data not found
  3. Locate the Microsoft Store app, click three dots and select Advanced options.Advanced Options
  4. Under Reset, click the Reset button.Microsoft Store Reset

3. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System, then click Troubleshoot.troubleshoot - App
  3. Now select Other troubleshooters.troubleshooters
  4. Locate Windows Store Apps and click Run.Windows-store-app.

4. Clear store cache

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.Run command wsreset.exe - pex-catalog availability data not found
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run as Admin.
  3. You might have to run this a few times.

5. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Follow this path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\Profiles
  4. Right-click on Profiles and select Permissions.Profiles
  5. Now on the Permissions for Profiles window, click Advanced.Advanced
  6. Place a checkmark beside Replace all child object permission entries with inheritable permission entries from this object.pex-catalog availability data not found
  7. Click Apply and OK.
  8. On the Permissions for Profiles window, click Apply and then OK.
  9. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC

6. Reregister Microsoft Store

  1. Press Windows + X to open the context menu, and select Terminal (Admin).Terminal (Admin) -pex-catalog availability data not found
  2. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter: Get-AppXPackage *Microsoft.WindowsStore* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
  3. Once done, launch the Microsoft Store.

So, these are the methods to fix the Xbox Game Pass PEX-Catalog Availability Data Not Found error. Try them and let us know which worked for you in the comments section below. Also, if you are facing another Microsoft Store error while accessing an app, check this out.

How to Create a Windows 10 Bootable USB with UEFI

Most users received Windows 10 as a free upgrade through Windows Update. Other users prefer to install the new operating system from a physical drive like a USB flash drive.

In this article, we will show you how to create a USB flash drive with Windows 10, which can be installed on UEFI-based computers.

If you’re not the one who really needs to install Windows 10 on a UEFI-based computer, but you’re reading this article just for education, you may not be familiar with the term UEFI.

UEFI is the replacement for BIOS, so it’s a new firmware that starts the computer and loads the operating system. And more and more new Windows PCs are coming with it.

Check out how to enable secure boot on UEFI computers in the linked article!

Can Rufus create a UEFI bootable USB?

Yes, Rufus can create a UEFI bootable USB. Rufus is a free and open-source utility that allows users to create bootable USB drives for various purposes, including booting and installing operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and others.

In the guides below, we will present how to create a Windows 10 bootable USB drive from ISO in just a few steps, using Rufus and Media Creation Tool.

How to create a Windows 10 UEFI bootable USB?

Before moving to the steps to create a Windows 10 UEFI bootable USB, check the BIOS mode for your computer.

1️⃣ Create a bootable USB using RUFUS

    Another method to create a bootable USB on Windows 10 is to use the Rufus USB image writer. It is a third-party standalone utility, so you don’t have to install it, just download and open it.

  1. 1. Download Rufus.

  2. 2. Open the app.

  3. 3. Select the USB flash drive you want to create an image on.

  4. 4. Select the GPT partition scheme for UEFI (leave cluster size to default). Make sure you have the option Create a bootable disk using ISO Image selected from the dropdown menu.

  5. 5. Add your Windows ISO file (you can download your Windows 10 ISO files from from Microsoft for free), and click Start.

  6. 6. Wait until the process is finished.

  7. 7. Now just restart your computer and install the system normally.

2️⃣ Use the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft

Setup Media Creation Tool
  1. Make sure you have an active Internet connection.
  2. Select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC option and click Next.Create installation media for another PC
  3. Select the language, architecture, and edition of Windows 10. It’s important to choose the correct architecture, 64-bit or 32-bit or you can simply select both.
  4. Select the USB flash drive option.
  5. Select the removable drive you want to use from the list.
  6. Wait until the download is over.

Besides Rufus, the Media Creation Tool is the most recommended tool to create a USB bootable Windows 10 system. Before you start, please download the updated file.

After the Windows 10 installation files have been downloaded, your computer will create a bootable USB that will be compatible with devices using UEFI or BIOS.

If you need to fix UEFI boot problems in Windows 10, check out our article linked here.

We hope that our solutions helped you create a Windows 10 UEFI bootable USB drive. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

If you have any other issues or questions, you can check our wide collection of guides on the Media Creation Tool.

Realtek Audio Not Working on Windows 11? Here’s What to do

The Realtek HD Audio Driver is one of the most common pieces of software for changing and tweaking audio settings on your PC. However, there are some difficulties that might cause Windows 11’s Realtek audio driver to stop functioning properly.

A variety of factors might contribute to Realtek HD Audio Driver issues. The majority of the challenges may be addressed by taking the steps outlined in this guide. Keep up with us!

Is Realtek audio driver compatible with Windows 11?

Realtek HD Audio Driver is the most user-friendly audio driver software that enhances sound quality and provides Dolby or Surround sound support via a sound card.

This driver is completely compatible with Windows 11, and this is not the cause of different issues with the driver. Here are the most common causes:

  • Outdated drivers – Driver updates go hand in hand with OS ones. Thus, if your OS will update but your drivers won’t, it might cause miscommunications across your device. In this case, it is advised to update your Realtek audio driver.
  • Enhancement audio settings – There are multiple audio enhancement software and settings that may cause issues with the driver. Thus, we will show you below how to disable them.
  • Corrupted drivers – Corrupted drivers are another reason which causes your OS to unsuccessfully communicate with your driver. By reinstalling the driver or installing another one, you will be able to fix this issue.
  • Wrong port connections – Make sure that you connect the audio cable to the right port and not the one for an audio input, which is usually pink.

How do I fix my Realtek audio driver in Windows 11?

Before moving on to more complex troubleshooting solutions, make sure to do the following:

1. Check the audio output

  1. Click on the Volume icon in the Taskbar. Alternatively, you can press Windows + A to launch it.
    volume   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  2. In the Quick Menu, click on the carrot arrow icon next to the volume level.
    carrot arrow   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  3. It will prompt you with a list of audio devices connected to the system. Select the desired device.
    output devices   windows 11 realtek audio driver

If selecting the desired device did not resolve the audio issue, it is possible that other system faults, for which we have provided alternative solutions, were the source of the problem.

2. Restart the Audio service

  1. Press the Windows key + R, which opens Run. Then enter services.msc in the open box, and click the OK button.services-ok error printing windows 10
  2. Find the Realtek audio service, right-click it and select Restart.restart-realtetk-service realtek audio driver windows 11

3. Update the driver

    If it isn’t constantly updated, the Realtek HD Audio Driver may stop functioning correctly. Follow these easy steps to correctly update the driver and fix the issue!

  1. 1. Right-click on the Start icon in the Taskbar or press Windows + X to launch the Quick Access menu then select Device Manager.

    device manager windows 11 realtek audio driver
  2. 2. Locate and double-click the Sound, video, and game controllers option. Right-click on the Realtek Audio device and select Update driver from the context menu.

    realtek-update realtek audio driver windows 11
  3. 3. Select the Search automatically for drivers option as Windows will find the best drivers on your system. Reboot your PC afterward.

    search-automatically-drivers

We strongly advocate using a specialist program such as Outbyte Driver Updater to do automatic scans for out-of-date drivers.

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4. Reinstall the Realtek driver or use your manufacturer’s

  1. Right-click on the Start icon in the Taskbar or press Windows + X to launch the Quick Access menu. Select Device Manager from the list of options displayed.
    device manager   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  2. Locate and double-click on the Sound, video, and game controllers option. Right-click on the Realtek Audio device and select Uninstall device from the context menu.realtek-uninstall enable hadset
  3. You can now either reboot your PC to automatically reinstall the Realtek driver, or head to your manufacturer’s website and search for an audio driver and download it. For example, here is Lenovo’s support page where you can find all drivers.realtek-lenovo realtek audio driver windows 11

After you have completed the procedures outlined above, restart your computer. Windows will automatically update the driver to the most recent version available. It will also remove any corrupted driver files that may have been present.

5. Disable Audio Enhancements

  1. Press on the Windows key + S, and search for Change system sounds.
    change system sound   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  2. Inside the Sound panel, navigate to the Playback tab, then select the speaker you are having trouble with, and click on Properties at the bottom.
    playback speakers   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  3. Click on the Enhancements tab, then tick the checkbox for Disable all enhancements, and click the OK at the bottom to save the changes and close the window.
    enhancements tab   windows 11 realtek audio driver

6. Run the Audio Troubleshooter

  1. Right-click on the Start icon in the Taskbar or press Windows + X to launch the Quick Access menu. From the list of options, select Settings.
    settings   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  2. The System tab will be open by default. Scroll down on the right side of the window and select Troubleshoot from the list of options.
    troubleshoot menu realtek hd audio device windows 11
  3. Tap on Other troubleshooters.
    other troubleshooters   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  4. Locate the Playing Audio troubleshooter and click on Run next to it.
    run   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  5. Select the audio output device you are having issues with and click on Next at the bottom.

Windows will now identify any issues with the device or configured settings and fix them. Instructions will be displayed once the errors are found, so make sure to follow them carefully.

7. Run System Restore

Note icon NOTE
System Restore will not delete any files on the system, however, recently installed applications, changes in settings, and driver updates may be removed.
  1. Press on the Windows key + S, search for Create a restore point, and click on the relevant search result.
    restore point   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  2. The System Protection tab will automatically open. Click on System Restore under it.system-rest realtek audio driver windows 11
  3. The Recommended restore point will be selected by default, but you can select another one by clicking on the Choose a different restore point option. After this, click on Next at the bottom.
    recommended restore   windows 11 realtek audio driver
  4. If everything looks fine, click on Finish at the bottom.

After your system has been successfully restored, the Realtek audio problem will be immediately repaired by the operating system. In case you don’t have a restore point created, check our guide on how to create a restore point in Windows 11.

8. Update Windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. Click the Windows Update section then click Check for updates on the right.check-updates-w11 windows 11 blue screen
  2. Reboot your PC afterward. The Realtek audio driver not working in Windows 11 issue will be fixed.

What to do if there’s no sound at all?

If you notice your sound has been missing altogether after installing Windows 11, you might want to check in with Microsoft’s help center.
no sound   windows 11 realtek audio driver

The help service will offer you more actions to take in order to solve the sound issues at hand. To talk with its support team, click the Get support link on the Contact Microsoft Support page. Thereafter, click the Contact Support button after entering a description.

However, if you try all of the above-suggested options or read our post on how to solve no sound in Windows 11, you may not need to call any support service.

The previous solutions will be insufficient if no output devices are identified in Windows 11. Instead, check our article on Windows 11 not recognizing output devices, to get a different list of quick remedies.

We hope that these methods were helpful in resolving your Realtek HD Audio Driver issues. Let us know what you think in the comment section below, and which solution worked best for you!

Realtek Audio Driver for Windows 11: How to Download and Install

This guide shows you how to download and install the Realtek audio driver for Windows 11 64-bit, either manually from your PC brand’s website or using an automatic tool.

Why does it matter? This driver powers your sound speakers, headphones, and microphones across apps and devices. Without it, you’ll get poor audio or none at all.

Let’s get it working.

How can I install the Realtek audio driver in Windows 11?

1. Realtek audio driver for HP in Windows 11

  1. Go to the driver section of HP’s official website, and select your device from the option listed here.select device to realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  2. Now, enter the product name or serial number in the provided text field, and click the Submit button.Serial number
  3. Click on the All drivers entry to check out the various available ones. Also, ensure that the latest iteration is selected as the operating system. If it isn’t, click on Choose a different OS and select Windows 11.All drivers
  4. Now, locate the Realtek audio driver, and click on the Download option next to it.click download to realtek audio driver windows 11
  5. You can now download the install assistant or click on No thanks, I will download and install manually. We choose the latter.Choose
  6. Once the setup is downloaded, click on it to launch the installer.Launch installer for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  7. Click Yes on the UAC (User Account Control) prompt.Click Yes
  8. Now, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process, and restart the computer once it’s done for the changes to come into effect fully.Complete installation for realtek audio driver windows 11 download

Once done with the steps listed here, you will have the Realtek audio driver downloaded and running in Windows 11.

Also, if you don’t want to go through the trouble of manually searching for the driver, use a reliable third-party app. A good option in that category is Fortect Driver Updater.

2. Realtek audio driver for Dell in Windows 11

  1. Go to the driver downloads section on Dell’s website, enter a product identifier in the designated text field, and click Search.Enter product identifier for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  2. Now, click the Find drivers option to search for the Realtek audio driver manually.Find drivers
  3. Enter Realtek audio in the Keyword text field and choose Windows 11 from the Operating system dropdown menu.Search for it to get realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  4. Now, scroll down and click the Download button next to the Realtek audio driver.Download
  5. Once the setup is downloaded, click on it to launch the installer.Launch setup for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  6. Click Yes on the UAC (User Account Control) prompt.Click Yes
  7. Next, click Install and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.Click Install for realtek audio driver windows 11 download

Once you have downloaded and installed the Realtek audio driver in Windows 11, restart the computer for the changes to effect, and you are good to go.

3. Realtek audio driver for Lenovo

  1. Go to the technical support page for Lenovo, hover the cursor over the PC from the options listed here, and select View PC Support.View PC support for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  2. Now, enter the device name in the designated text field and select the appropriate option once it appears in the search results.Enter device name
  3. Select Drivers & Software from the navigation pane on the left.Drivers and Software for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  4. Now, select the Manual update tab.Manual Update for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  5. Click on the Audio entry from the various components listed here.Audio
  6. Next, click on Realtek audio driver for Windows 11.Click entry to get realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  7. Click on the Download icon next to the Realtek audio driver.Download to get realtek audio driver windows 11
  8. Once the setup is downloaded, click on it to launch the installer.Open installer
  9. Click Yes in the UAC (User Account Control) prompt that pops up.Click Yes
  10. Now, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.Complete installation for realtek audio driver windows 11 download

Once done with the download and installation of the Realtek audio driver in Windows 11 on a Lenovo device, restart the computer for the changes to effect.

4. Realtek audio driver for ASUS

  1. Go to Asus support and either enter the model name and select the appropriate option from the search results, or you can manually find your product.Enter product number to get realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  2. Click on the Driver & Utility option on the right.Drivers and Utility
  3. Select your model name from the dropdown menu and click Okay if prompted.Select Model for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  4. Scroll down, click on the Please select OS dropdown menu, and fix Windows 11 from the list of options.Windows 11
  5. Again scroll down, and click on Show all under the Audio section.Show all for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  6. Click on the Download button next to the Realtek audio driver entry.Download
  7. Once you have the setup downloaded, click on it to launch the installer.Launch Installer
  8. Next, click Yes in the UAC (User Account Control) prompt that pops up.Click Yes
  9. After the installer is launched, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.Complete installation for realtek audio driver windows 11 download
  10. Once done, restart the computer to bring the changes into effect.

That’s it! This is how you can download and install the Asus Realtek audio driver on Windows 10 64-bit and Windows 11. If you want to be sure, verify this with the Device Manager.

Besides, the OEM’s website is the best source, even for the Asus Realtek audio driver for Windows 7.

How does installing the Realtek audio driver help in Windows 11?

First of all, Realtek audio drivers deliver high quality audio on Windows 11. And that goes beyond the built-in speakers and microphones – it works great with external devices too. All while being user-friendly.

Second, you are unlikely to encounter issues with the connectivity. On the contrary, the driver would help improve it. Also, you will likely see better performance and patches for previously known bugs with each driver update.

How can I fix issues with the Realtek audio driver in Windows 11?

If you want to fix issues with the Realtek audio driver in Windows 11, verify if the connections are in order. Also, check if there’s a newer version available, and if you find one, update the driver. In case the driver is corrupt, reinstalling it should do the job.

Besides, check for misconfigured sound settings and disable audio enhancements. If nothing else works, you can always perform a system restore in Windows 11 and get your PC back to a healthy state.

Wrapping up

Realtek Audio drivers, just like related software such as Intel High Definition Audio Device Driver are valuable helps enhance the sound output and improve the system’s connectivity with external audio devices.

Want to go beyond drivers and actually bring back Realtek’s full control panel? Our tutorial on downloading Realtek HD Audio Manager in Windows 11 walks you through every step to restore the classic interface.

You now know how to manually download the Realtek audio driver in Windows 11 and fix issues with it. Feel free to use your manufacturer’s tools for identifying drivers or use a third-party tool to update them.

We also have a guide on how to get ASUS Realtek HD Audio Manager on Windows 11, so don’t miss it for more information.

Still running into issues? If the Realtek Audio Console doesn’t support your machine, here’s how to fix it. You might also see a Realtek audio driver error 0001, or notice the HD Audio Manager missing or not opening. Each of those links walks you through quick fixes.

Tell us your experience with the Realtek audio driver and if you noticed any improvement with the audio quality in the comments section below.

FIXED: The Document Could Not Be Printed [Adobe Acrobat]

Adobe’s forum includes posts about a This document could not be printed error that pops up for some users. That error message pops up for Adobe Acrobat users when they try to print PDF documents.

Consequently, the users can’t print any Portable Document Format with the software. This is how Acrobat users can fix the This document could not be printed error.

Why is Adobe saying the document could not be printed?

Before we attempt to fix the issue, we have to rule out what’s causing it. Here are some of the most common culprits:

  • The document is corrupt
  • Your printer drivers are out of date
  • The document contains images or fonts that cannot be rendered
  • You opened the Adobe document in a browser and not in the native Adobe app

How do you fix the document that could not be printed?

1. Reinstall Adobe Acrobat

If you are unable to print PDF documents, your current Adobe Acrobat Reader might be corrupted. The easiest way to fix this issue is by reinstalling the software altogether.

By doing so, you not only fix your printing situation, but you also benefit from the latest enhancements and newest features that come with the Reader’s most recent version.

Long story short, that’s your chance to easily convert web pages and Microsoft Office documents (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) to PDFs and compress them for a smaller size.

Even more, you can scan and print to PDF, split, merge and compare PDF files, or even edit them (manage data in scanned tables, rearrange, delete and rotate pages in a PDF).

2. Update the printer driver

The document could not be printed error could be due to an outdated or corrupted printer driver. If so, updating the printer driver will probably resolve the issue.

The simplest way to install, update, or fix a third-party driver is to use a dedicated tool such as Outbyte Driver Updater to do the job for you.

Without such a tool, you would have to manually go to each manufacturer’s website and download each driver separately.

Unfortunately, this leaves room for errors such as downloading the wrong drivers, or not getting the latest one yet.

However, those will just be a problem of the past if you use Outbyte Driver Updater since all of the above will be done automatically by the program.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Keep your printer driver in check to prevent printing errors from happening again.
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3. Select the Print as Image option

  1. First, open the PDF document that doesn’t print in Acrobat.
  2. Click File and Print to open the window shown in the image directly below.
  3. Press the Advanced button to open further options.
  4. Select the Print As Image option on the Advanced Print Setup window.
  5. Click the OK button.
  6. Then press the Print button.

Some Acrobat users have confirmed that selecting the Print As Image option fixes the An error occurred while printing the document error. A PDF document might contain images and fonts that can’t be rendered.

Selecting Print As Image prints the PDF as a rasterized image of the document instead. Acrobat users can select the Print As Image setting as described above.

4. Remove documents from the print queue

  1. Open Cortana by clicking Type here to search on the taskbar.
  2. Enter the keyword printer in the search box.
  3. Then click Printers and Scanners to open the window shown directly below.
  4. Select the printer you’re trying to print the PDF with.
  5. Press the Open queue button to open the window directly below.
  6. Click Printer and choose Cancel All Documents if there are documents in the queue.
  7. Restart Windows after clearing the print queue.

There might be some documents stuck in the printer queue. If so, emptying the print queue could help if Adobe cannot print documents. Follow the guidelines above to clear the print queue in Windows 10.

5. Turn off PDF/A View Mode

  1. To do that, click Edit and choose Preferences in Acrobat.
  2. Click Documents on the Preferences window to open the settings shown directly below.
  3. Select Never on the PDF/A View Mode drop-down menu.
  4. Then press the OK button.
  5. Open and print the PDF in Acrobat.

Turning PDF/A View Mode off has fixed the document could not be printed error for some Acrobat users, so be sure to try it.

6. Open the document in Google Chrome or alternative PDF software

This resolution is more of a workaround than a fix. Remember that you can print the PDF from alternative software.

So, try opening the document in Google Chrome or another browser that supports the PDF format.

To do that, right-click the PDF file you need to print and select Open with > Google Chrome. That will open the PDF in Chrome. Then users can click the Print button to print out the document.

Alternatively, users can print from alternative PDF software. Foxit Reader, PDF Annotation Lite, and Xodo are three notable alternatives to Adobe Acrobat.

Click the Free Foxit Reader Download button on Foxit’s website to save the installer for that software. Then open the Foxit Reader’s setup wizard to add the software to Windows.

This is a workaround, but it could fix An error occurred while printing the document message, so feel free to try it.

7. Convert the PDF to a DOCX document

  1. Open the PDF to DOCX page in a browser.
  2. Select the PDF to DOCX tab.
  3. Press the Upload Files button to select a PDF to convert.
  4. Then select Download All to save the new DOCX document to a folder.
  5. The document downloads as a compressed ZIP.
    • Users can extract it by opening the ZIP in File Explorer, clicking Extract all, and pressing Extract.
  6. Thereafter, open the DOCX document in a word processor and print it from there.

Acrobat users can also convert the PDFs they need to print to Word DOCX documents. Then users can open the documents in MS Word, or other word processors, to print them.

This is a workaround, and you’ll have to repeat it for every affected document, but it’s still useful if Adobe cannot print the document.

Those are some of the best resolutions for fixing this error.

Let us know which one of the solutions enlisted solved The document could not be printed error for you in the comments section below.

10 Best Corrupted File Repair Software for Windows

This guide has curated the best software to repair files on your Windows PC.

Some of these tools are specialized for a specific purpose, such as corrupt file finder, while others are general repair tools.

What is the best file repair software?

1. Fortect – Multiskilled program

Fortect scans your PC to look for issues like corrupt or missing system files, DLL file issues, and registry keys.

It can also free up space by removing junk files. Plus, Fortect helps you identify faulty or incompatible software.

Take a peek at what other key features Fortect includes:

  • Browser Cleanup
  • Prevention of blue screen of death
  • Operating system restoration
  • PC scan and assessment
Fortect

Fortect

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2. Stellar software – File repair software with various tools

Stellar Data Recovery

Stellar offers a variety of software solutions to repair corrupted files across multiple platforms. Their tools are designed to fix issues with Outlook, PowerPoint, Access, and other file types like Word and Excel.

Each software provides advanced recovery features to restore your files with minimal data loss, including the ability to handle encrypted or password-protected files.

Stellar has several plans available, each tailored to different needs, but they all provide high-quality repair options. You can preview files before repairs and ensure everything is recovered as expected.

Explore the products below:

Stellar Software

Stellar Software

Recover and repair your corrupted files effortlessly with Stellar’s powerful tools
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3. Recoverit – Best media repair file

recoverit file repair software

Recoverit is yet another exciting software entry on our list primarily because it does not only repair a file, but it can also perform the recovery process that usually precedes the repairs.

With its ability to restore from pretty much any type of media and its support for over 1000 file formats, Recoverit is a top contender in the file repair market.

It can also handle data that was previously on lost partitions, and you can even recover data even if the PC doesn’t boot or if it constantly crashes.

Recoverit

Recoverit

Recover and repair your lost or damaged files effortlessly with Recoverit!
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4. Hetman File Repair – Dynamic file repair software

hetman file repair software

Unlike most of the other entries on our list explicitly targeted just one category of files, the Hetman File Repair software was created to solve issues with JPEG, TIFF, PSD, and ZIP files.

The tool can repair file headers and rebuild the internal structures of many types of files.

With no more structural errors, these files can now finally be viewed and edited at will.

The most common scenario to use Hetman File Repair is after a data recovery session when many files tend to come back damaged or incomplete.

⇒ Get Hetman File Repair

5. File Repair – Simple interface

option file repair software

File Repair is a free tool designed to fix corrupted files by extracting data into a new file.

It supports a wide range of formats, including Word, Excel, Zip, RAR, PDF, Access, PowerPoint, images (JPEG, PNG, GIF, etc.), and audio files (.mp3, .wav).

The application can address issues caused by power failures, network interruptions, viruses, and system errors. It features a simple user interface, making it ideal for basic users, and is completely free to download and use.

⇒ Get File Repair

6. PowerPoint Repair Toolbox – Task-specific tool

powerpoint file repair software

PowerPoint Repair Toolbox specializes in repairing damaged PowerPoint files on Windows 7 and newer systems. It recovers text, objects, and other file elements while preserving the file’s structure.

However, media files and images are saved separately and must be re-added to the presentation manually.

The tool is easy to use but cannot repair password-protected files. It requires PowerPoint to be installed on your PC.

⇒ Get PowerPoint Repair Toolbox

7. Cimaware OfficeFix – Office file repair tool

cimaware

This tool is designed to repair Office files, including Access, Excel, Word, and Outlook. It features a simple interface where you select the file type to recover and can handle single or multiple files.

While functional, the slightly outdated interface may not appeal to all users. It’s not free, but a demo version is available for testing without restrictions.

⇒ Get Cimeware OfficeFix 

8. Zip Repair – Zip file fixer

zip fixer file repair software

Zip Repair is a simple tool for fixing corrupted .zip files. It lets you repair single or spanned Zip files, extract content, and even perform batch repairs.

It supports the Zip64 format and archives larger than 2GB, addressing issues like CRC errors.

While effective, its outdated interface may not appeal to everyone. The tool isn’t free, but an evaluation version is available for trial.

⇒ Get Zip Repair

9. DiskInternals ZIP Repair – Multiple files repair tool

diskinternal file repair software

Repairing files is simple; you must select the corrupt archive you want to repair. After that, set the filename you want to use for the repaired file and start the repair process.

After the scan is complete, the tool will extract partially damaged and restored files.

DiskInternals ZIP Repair is a simple tool that will repair all your corrupted zip files without any problems. In addition to being simple to use, this application is also free, so that you can use it without any restrictions.

⇒ Get DiskInternals ZIP Repair

10. Recovery Toolbox for RAR – Dedicated RAR file fixer

recovery file repair software

Besides ZIP files, many users use RAR files to create file archives. RAR files can also become corrupted, and to repair a corrupted RAR file, you might need a tool such as Recovery Toolbox for RAR.

According to the developer, this tool can help you if the corrupt archive is in an unknown format or damaged. In addition, these tools are helpful if you’re getting a CRC check failure message due to file corruption.

The tool can also help if the RAR file header is corrupted or the RAR archive is improperly compressed.

To fix a RAR file, select the damaged file and follow the instruction wizard. We have to mention that this tool can work with files up to 4GB.

Regarding compatibility, this tool should work on all versions of Windows, including Windows 10. The device is available as a free demo, but if you want to continue using this tool, you’ll need to purchase a license.

⇒ Get Recovery Toolbox for RAR

How we choose the best repair software

There are many great PC repair software options, some of which are free. Depending on the file type, you may need specialized tools. We’ve already covered the best software to repair ZIP files, so check that out.

If system recovery leaves you with damaged files, there are ways to recover corrupted files.

A good Windows repair tool should:

  • Repair system files
  • Recover deleted items
  • Ensure high-quality file recovery

How do I fix corrupted files on Windows 10 for free?

  1. Press the Windows key + R and type cmd.
  2. Click the OK button to launch Command Prompt.
    cmd
  3. Type the command below and hit Enter. sfc/scannow
    sfc scan

You can run an SFC scan to repair corrupted files on Windows 10 for free. If this tool fails, you can use the built-in DISM to improve the SFC tool and the broken files. Lastly, there is free dedicated software that you can install for this purpose.

As you can see, there are many different tools that you can use to repair your files, and depending on the type of file that you want to improve, you might have to use other tools.

We must mention that sometimes your files can’t be repaired, so you should keep that in mind before trying these tools.

Feel free to let us know the tool you enjoy using on our list in the comments below.

50 Windows Terminal Shortcuts & Actions You Should Use

Windows Terminal is an open-source terminal app that lets you use command-line tools, including Command Prompt, PowerShell, and more. It has many useful features, and it gets easier to work on if you know a few shortcuts.

This guide contains a list of all the essential Windows Terminal shortcuts that you should know.

What are the most valuable shortcuts for Windows Terminal?

1. Opening Windows Terminal

Shortcut KeyActions
Windows + Number (profile index: 1-9)Call it from Taskbar if you have it pinned on Taskbar
W t + EnterType this on the File Explorer address bar to open Windows Terminal
W t - d . + EnterTo open the current directory on Terminal from File Explorer
Ctrl + Shift + NOpen a new Terminal window

2. Moving between tabs

Shortcut KeyActions
Ctrl + Shift + TOpen a new default tab
Ctrl + Shift + Number (profile index: 1-9)Open a new tab by pressing any number between 1 to 9
Ctrl + Alt+ Number (1-9)Switch between tabs (1-9)
Ctrl + TabGo to the Next tab
Ctrl + Shift + TabGo to the Previous tab
Ctrl + Shift + DOpen a new instance of a current tab
Ctrl + Shift + 9Switch to the last tab
Ctrl + Shift + WClose the existing tab

3. Customize the look of Terminal

Shortcut keyActions
Alt + Shift + -Splitting panes horizontally
Alt + Shift + =Splitting panes vertically
Ctrl + =Increase font size
Ctrl + -Decrease font size
Ctrl + 0Reset font size
Alt+ Shift + downResize the pane down
Alt+ Shift + leftResize pane left
Alt+ Shift + rightResize pane right
Alt+ Shift + upResize pane up

4. Change Focus

Shortcut keyActions
Alt + downMove focus down
Alt + leftMove focus left
Alt + rightMove focus right
Alt + upMove focus up
Ctrl + Alt + leftMove focus to the last used pane

5. Access Settings & advanced features

Shortcut keyActions
Ctrl+ Alt+ ,Open the default settings file (JSON)
Ctrl + ,Open Settings
Ctrl + Shift + ,Open Settings file (JSON)
CTRL + Shift + POpen a command palette
Alt + SpaceOpen system menu

6. Other useful shortcuts & actions

Shortcut keyActions
Alt + F4Close the window
Ctrl + Shift + FFind
Alt + Shift + D Duplicate pane
Ctrl + Shift + WClose pane
Ctrl + CCopy text
Ctrl + VPaste text
Ctrl+ Shift + downScroll down
Ctrl+ Shift + PgDnScroll down one page
Ctrl+ Shift + endScroll to the bottom of history
Ctrl+ Shift + homeScroll to the top of the history
Ctrl+ Shift + upScroll up
Ctrl+ Shift + PgUpScroll up one page
Ctrl+ Shift + ASelect all text
Win + `Show/Hide Quake window
Alt + Shift + -Split pane, split: down
Alt + Shift + +Split pane, split: right
F11Toggle on/off fullscreen
Ctrl + Shift + MToggle mark mode
Left Alt + Left Shift + PrtscnToggle on/off high visibility screen mode

That’s it! These are some useful Windows Terminal shortcuts that you can use to improve productivity.

If you want to know easy ways to open Terminal on Windows 11, we suggest you read this guide.

To learn more about the Terminal we have a great guide on Command Prompt vs Windows Terminal that will answer all your questions.

So go ahead and note them down, and let us know which ones you use the most in the comments section below.

EASY Fix: DNS Server Not Responding in Windows 10 [2026 Guide]

The DNS server is a crucial component of the Internet. Its a sort of phonebook that connects your browser with the website you want to access. Unfortunately, DNS issues on Windows 10 are often encountered, with users reporting a DNS server is not responding error message on their PCs.

What causes a DNS server not to respond?

Below are some of the common causes of DNS server not responding on your Windows PC:

  • Outdated or faulty drivers
  • Issues with DNS server address
  • Antivirus interference
  • Outdated router firmware
  • Browser issues (such as DNS net internals on Chrome)

How do I fix the DNS server not responding Windows 10 error?

What to do if the DNS server is not responding in Windows 10? The quickest fix is to change the DNS server settings manually. Then disable your firewall, reset your router, and test the connection again. Let’s get to the list of methods to fix it, starting with the video below.

1. Change the DNS server manually

  1. Press Windows key + R, type ncpa.cpl, and click the OK button.
    ncpa
  2. Right-click your network and choose Properties.
    internet properties dns server not responding wifi
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click the Properties button.
    ipv4 properties dns server not responding wireless
  4. Now, select the Use the following DNS server addresses option.
  5. Set the Preferred DNS server to 8.8.8.8. and the Alternate DNS server to 8.8.4.4.
  6. You can also use 208.67.222.222 as Preferred and 208.67.220.220 as the Alternate DNS server.
  7. After you’re done, click OK to save the changes.
    internet protocol version 4 properties dns server unavailable
  8. Optional: Disconnect from the Internet and connect back again.

When you try to access a particular website, you’ll automatically connect to your ISP’s DNS server.

However, it can happen that your DNS server is not available. If that’s the case, you’ll see the DNS server is not responding error on Lenovo and other PCs.

One way to fix this problem is to change your DNS server to OpenDNS or Google DNS. This is a simple procedure that you can perform it by following the steps above.

After changing the DNS server, check if the problem is resolved. You should be able to browse the Internet without any issues.

Remember that changing your DNS server might make your Internet connection a bit slower depending on your location, so you might want to experiment with different servers.

Changing the DNS server can help you fix network problems when playing games, like the Dark and Darker server error; read this guide to learn more.

2. Enter your MAC address manually

2.1. Locate the physical address of your PC

  1. Type cmd in the search tab and click on Run as administrator under Command Prompt.cmd admin
  2. Enter ipconfig /all and press Enter.
    ipconfig
  3. Locate the Physical Address and write it down.
    physical dns server not responding
  4. Close Command Prompt.

2.2. Configure your network connection

  1. Open the Network Connections window.
  2. Locate your connection and open its properties.
  3. When the Properties window opens, click on Configure.
    configure network adapter dns server not available
  4. Go to the Advanced tab and select Network Address from the Property list.
  5. Now select Value and enter the MAC address you got from Command Prompt (Be sure not to enter any dashes while entering your MAC address).
    mac address change dns failure
  6. Click OK to save the changes.

According to users, you can sometimes have DNS failure simply by manually entering your network adapter’s MAC address.

This is a simple procedure. To enter your MAC address, you need to find it first. To do that, follow the steps above.

Users report that this solution works best after switching to Google DNS or OpenDNS, so be sure to try it.

If you need to change your MAC address, you can use one of these MAC address changer tools.

3. Install the latest drivers

3.1. Update your drivers manually

  1. Press Windows key + X and choose Device Manager from the list.
    device manager
  2. When Device Manager opens, locate your network adapter, right-click on it and choose Uninstall.
    uninstall driver dns server not available
  3. If available, click on Delete driver software for this device, followed by Uninstall.
    uninstall driver confirm dns failure
  4. After you delete the driver, restart your PC.
  5. When your PC restarts, the default network driver will be installed.

Your network adapter relies on drivers to work correctly, and if you have any problems with it, it might be due to your drivers.

To fix DNS server errors on Windows 10, you need to visit your network adapter manufacturer’s website, download the latest drivers and install them on your PC.

If you can’t access the Internet at all, it might be caused by the DNS server not being unavailable, so download the drivers on a different device and install them on your PC.

Some users also recommend uninstalling your network drivers before installing the new drivers.

3.2. Update drivers automatically

Downloading drivers manually can cause damage to your computer in case you download the wrong version. We strongly suggest doing it automatically by using a third-party driver updating tool.

These tools are exceptionally light and will automatically repair or update your drivers in just a few seconds and in just one go. You only need to invest a few clicks, and the problem will disappear.

4. Disable your antivirus and firewall

Antivirus and firewall solutions are necessary to protect your PC from malicious users, but sometimes your antivirus and firewall can interfere with your Internet connection.

To fix DNS server connection issues on Windows 10, try temporarily disabling your antivirus and firewall client.

Remember that your PC will still be protected by Windows Defender even if you disable your antivirus, so there’s no need to worry about your safety.

If your antivirus or firewall client was causing this issue, be sure to change its configuration or switch to a different client.

Users reported that Bitdefender Total Security could sometimes cause this problem to appear. If you’re using Bitdefender, you need to go to Firewall settings and disable the Block Internet connection sharing option.

After that, the problem should be resolved. Users reported that Avast could also cause this problem. To fix it, open Avast settings and disable the Secure DNS option.

You can also try disabling the firewall on your router. This is a bit advanced and potentially dangerous solution, so keep that in mind. By disabling your router’s firewall, your PC will be completely vulnerable.

If you decide to do that, temporarily disable your router’s firewall and check if that fixes the problem.

If the problem was your firewall, you need to turn it back on again and check your firewall configuration for the source of the problem.

To see how to disable your router’s firewall, be sure to check its instruction manual.

5. Update your router’s firmware

A few users reported that DNS servers might not respond while using wireless networks like WiFi. However, you can fix that simply by updating your router’s firmware.

We must warn you that this is an advanced process, so you must be extra cautious to avoid causing damage.

Before updating your router’s firmware, you must back up its settings. We advise you to check your instruction manual to see how to update the firmware correctly.

If your DNS server is not responding on WiFi/wireless, you may also want to check the channels you’re using.

6. Use the netsh command

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the commands below and press Enter after each: netsh int ip reset netsh winsock reset ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /renew
  3. After all the commands are executed, restart your computer.

According to users, you can fix DNS failure simply by running a few commands from Command Prompt. To do that, follow the steps above.

You’ll reset your IP and clear the DNS cache by performing these commands, so be sure to try this method.

7. Restart your modem

One way to fix the DNS server not responding error on Windows 10 is by restarting your modem. To do that, press the power button on your modem to turn it off.

Wait 30 seconds and press the power button again to turn it on. Wait until the modem turns on entirely and check if the problem persists.

8. Start your PC in Safe Mode

  1. Open the Start Menu and click the Power button.
  2. Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard and click Restart.
    power dns server not responding
  3. Choose Troubleshoot.
  4. Select Advanced options, select Startup Settings, and click the Restart button.
  5. When your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options available. Select Safe Mode with Networking by pressing F5 on the keyboard.
  6. Safe Mode will now start.

Sometimes third-party applications such as antivirus or VPN can interfere with your Internet connection.

To fix the DNS server not responding error on Windows 10, try accessing the Internet from Safe Mode.

If you’re not familiar, Safe Mode is a special mode in Windows that runs only with essential software and drivers.

When Safe Mode starts, check if your network connection is working. If there are no problems with your Internet connection in Safe Mode, third-party software interferes with your network connection.

You need to find and remove the problematic application from your PC to fix this issue.

9. Disable Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport Adapter

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. When Device Manager opens, go to View and select Show hidden devices.
    view hidden dns server not responding
  3. Locate Microsoft Virtual W-iFi Miniport Adapter, right-click it, and choose Disable. Repeat this step for all available Virtual Miniport Adapters.
  4. After you’re done, close Device Manager and check if the problem is resolved.

If the DNS server is not responding on WiFi connections, the problem might be caused by Microsoft Virtual WiFi Miniport Adapter. To fix this issue, you need to find and disable these adapters.

10. Disable Internet Protocol Version 6

  1. Open Network Connections.
  2. Right-click your connection and choose Properties.
  3. Now, locate Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and unmark it.disable ipv6
  4. Click the OK button to save changes.

There are two types of IP addresses, v4 and v6. If your DNS server is not responding on your PC, you might be able to fix it by disabling Internet Protocol Version 6.

Disabling IPv6 won’t affect your computer negatively, but hopefully, it should fix the problem with the DNS server.

11. Disable all additional connections

  1. Open the Network Connections window.
  2. Right-click the connection that you want to disable.
  3. Choose Disable from the menu.
    disable network connection dns server not responding windows 7

You might have multiple connections on your PC, which can sometimes cause DNS server issues while using WiFi connections.

To fix this issue, you need to disable those connections from the Network Connections window.

12. Check for third-party applications

Some third-party applications can affect your DNS and cause this problem to appear. Users reported that their DNS changes automatically to a specific address.

The problem was caused by a third-party application called ColdTurkey.

After disabling or uninstalling the problematic application, the DNS server is not responding error was resolved entirely.

Remember that almost any network-related or security application can interfere with your DNS, so keep a close eye on all installed applications.

13. Change the DNS address on your router

According to users, you might be able to fix this problem by setting a different DNS address on your router. To do that, you need to access your router’s configuration page and look for the DNS setting.

Change the DNS server to Google DNS or OpenDNS and check if the problem is resolved. For detailed instructions on how to change your DNS, be sure to check your router’s instruction manual.

14. Reset your router

Your router configuration can sometimes cause DNS problems to appear. If the DNS server is not responding on the router, you need to reset your device to default settings.

To do that, you need to open your router’s configuration page and select the Reset option.

You can export your configuration if you want, so you don’t have to configure wireless networks again.

Another way to reset your router is to hold the reset button on it for a few seconds. Both methods work the same, and you should use the one you’re most comfortable with.

If you’re unsure how to reset your router, check your instruction manual for step-by-step instructions.

15. Turn off the peer-to-peer update feature

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I.
  2. Navigate to the Update & security section.
    update
  3. Click on Advanced options.
    advanced dns server not responding
  4. Click the Delivery optimization option.
    delivery
  5. Toggle the switch for Allow downloads from other PCs backward to set it Off.
    allow

Windows 10 has a great feature that allows you to download updates using peer-to-peer technology.

This feature allows you to download Windows updates directly from other users in your area.

This is a valuable and innovative feature, but it seems that this feature can sometimes cause DNS failure. One potential solution for DNS problems is to disable this feature.

After turning this feature off, check if the problem with the DNS server is resolved.

16. Wait for your ISP to fix the problem

Sometimes DNS server is not responding error can be caused by your ISP. Your ISP might have some problems, so you might have to wait a few hours while your ISP resolves technical difficulties.

The DNS server is not responding error will prevent you from accessing the Internet, but you should be able to fix it by using one of our solutions.

17. Fix Comcast DNS server not responding

We noticed many reports about the Comcast DNS server not responding when users try to get online using WiFi.

To fix this issue as quickly as possible, go to the GW GUI, select Troubleshooting and then Reset/Restore Gateway. Reset your WiFi router and check if the problem persists.

What can I do if Windows 11 DNS server is not responding?

The DNS server is not responding on Windows 11 issue is caused by issues with antivirus and drivers. Also, it might be caused by problems with your DNS server address.

You can fix the issue effectively by applying the solutions listed guide.

Is it safe to flush DNS cache?

Any invalid addresses, whether they are obsolete or have been altered, will be removed by clearing the DNS server. It’s also crucial to remember that clearing the cache has no unfavorable consequences.

So yes, if you are wondering how safe it is, it is indeed safe.

How do I find my DNS server?

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run utility.
  2. Type cmd and hit Enter.
    cmd dns server not responding
  3. Type the command below and press Enter: ipconfig/all
    ipconfig
  4. Look for DNS servers from the list.
    option

How do you check if DNS is working?

  1. Go to the DNS leak test website.
  2. Click the Standard test button.
    standard
  3. Check the ISP column if it contains the correct DNS.
    isp

If the DNS shown on the site above is correct, it means your DNS is working perfectly. Using Command Prompt as admin, you can also check whether your DNS server is working.

You only need to run the command below: nslookup <client name> <server IP address>

Note that you need to replace the client name and server IP address with the correct value. If the command returns Request to server timed out or No response from server, your DNS server is probably not working.

That’s it! We hope you fixed the DNS server not responding error on Windows 10 by using one of our solutions.

If you face other issues like the DNS server unavailable error on Windows 11, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

Do you have other suggestions or thoughts regarding the DNS not responding Windows 10 issue? Write them in a comment below.

Windows Modules Installer Worker High CPU Usage [4 Fixes]

Windows Modules Installer Worker high CPU usage can cause various problems, and it can negatively impact your performance.

However, this problem can be resolved, and in today’s guide, we’re going to show you the best ways to do that.

Why is Windows Module Installer using 100% CPU?

Issues with Windows Update or corrupted system files are the most common culprits for this issue.

How do I fix Windows Modules Installer Worker with high CPU usage?

It’s possible that high CPU usage is caused by an update install in the background, so waiting is the best option. If the problem persists after an hour or so, try using one of the following solutions.

1. Delete the SoftwareDistribution folder

1.1 Stop Windows Update service

  1. 1. Press Windows key + R to open Run. Type services.msc and hit Enter.

    services windows modules installer worker high cpu
  2. 2. In the Service window, look for Windows Update service.

  3. 3. Right-click on Windows Update service and select Stop.

    stop windows modules installer worker high cpu

1.2 Delete the SoftwareDistribution folder

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the following directory: Local Disk (C:) > Windows
  2. Look for the SoftwareDistribution folder. Right-click on it, and select Delete.
    software distribution
  3. Reboot your PC.
  4. Press Windows + I and click on Update & security.
    update and windows modules installer worker high cpu
  5. Finally, click the Check for updates button.
    check for

2. Stop this process from running

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Navigate to the Details tab.
  3. Locate TiWorker, right-click it, and choose End Task.

3. Prevent automatic Windows updates

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type services.msc, and click OK.
  2. Right-click the Windows Modules Installer option to open its properties.
    option
  3. Now, set its Startup type to Manual and click Apply, followed by OK.
    manual option
  4. Go back to the Services window and double-click the Windows Update service.
    update windows modules installer worker high cpu
  5. Set its Startup type to Manual and click the Apply button, followed by OK.
    manual update windows modules installer worker high cpu
  6. Now, close the Services window.

4. Run Windows troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Update & Security option.
    update and windows modules installer worker high cpu
  2. Click Troubleshoot in the left pane and select Additional troubleshooters.
    troubleshoot
  3. Now, select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
    run the windows modules installer worker high cpu
  4. Finally, follow any recommendations to fix the issue with the Windows update.

Is Windows Modules Installer Worker safe?

Yes, Windows Modules Installer Worker is a Microsoft’s built-in system service, and it’s perfectly safe, even it causes high CPU usage.

Is Windows Modules Installer necessary?

This service is used for downloading and installing Windows updates, so it’s necessary if keep your system up to date.

We have a great guide on how to disable Windows Modules Installer, if you don’t want to use this service, so don’t miss it.

Why is Windows Module Installer Worker always running?

This service is closely related to Windows Update service, and if Windows Update service is running, the Module Installer Worker will run as well.

And with this, we can conclude this guide on how to solve this high CPU usage issue. We believe you have everything to fix the issue for good and get your PC working again.

If you are facing a similar issue in TiWorker.exe high CPU usage, check our detailed guide to fix it. We also have a guide on other Windows Modules Installer Service issues, so check it out for more solutions.

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

How to Fix AMD GPU Scaling not Working on Windows 10 & 11?

Many users having AMD graphic cards on their computers reported experiencing an issue with the GPU scaling. It seems that after updating their graphics cards to a specific version, the GPU scaling stops working. This issue is usually caused by incompatible installed drivers.

If you’re encountering this frustrating issue, make sure to follow our fixes.

How to enable GPU scaling on AMD?

1. Update Windows

  1. Press the Start button > open Settings.
  2. Click Update & Security.
  3. Select Windows Update.
  4. Click Check for updates.update windows 10 gpu scaling doesnt work windows 10
  5. If it finds any updates, let it complete the process and restart your computer.
  6. After rebooting your PC, check if updating Windows fixed the issue.

2. Change monitor settings

  1. Go to Settings and select Display
  2. Disable GPU scaling
  3. display settings gpu scaling doesnt work windows 10Open the monitor options and see if it offers the option to Preserve aspect ratio. If it does, enable this option and see if it fixes the issue.

Make sure to use this function, as it expands the images according to the full size of the monitor and maintains their aspect ratio. Meanwhile, even if it is similar, the Center option disables image scaling and centers the image for non-native resolutions, causing black bars to appear around it.

3. Perform a clean uninstall and reinstall the GPU driver

  1. Download the AMD Cleanup Utility for your specific Windows version.
  2. Open the download location and run AMDCleanupUtility.exe
  3. When asked if you want to run the utility in Safe Mode, choose Yes.
  4. Select OK when asked to remove all AMD components.
  5. Wait for the process to finish and choose between View Report or Finish to exit the setup.amd cleanup utility gpu scaling doesnt work windows 10
  6. When asked to reboot the PC, choose Yes.
  7. Go to the AMD official website and input your GPU details in order to download your necessary drivers.
  8. Install the drivers and see if it fixed the issue.

An easier solution would be to use a professional driver updating tool that takes care of this process automatically. Within minutes, it can look for suitable GPU drivers and it installs them just as fast.

With just a few clicks, you can set it to perform this procedure in a safe way, without harming your user data.

4. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press the Start button > open Settings
  2. Go to Update & Security > Recoveryadvanced startup gpu scaling doesnt work windows 10
  3. Under the Advanced startup option, click Restart now
  4. Wait for the computer to restart
  5. In the Choose an option screen, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options
  6. Select System Restore > Choose your account and enter the password if needed > press Continue
  7. Choose a restore point and start the process.

We hope that our solutions helped you fix this issue. If you found this article helpful, leave a comment in the comment section below.

READ ALSO:

Computer Won’t Open Anything in Windows 10: Fix It Now

There were several occasions that found ourselves in a scenario where “My laptop won’t open anything.” This includes apps, programs, browsers, File Explorer, or any other software. Even Task Manager won’t open.

In some cases, Microsoft apps won’t open, while in others, there can be even more things at stake.

Besides that, this inconvenient system issue may affect multiple laptop brands. For instance, the users reported problems such as Lenovo, Acer, or HP laptops won’t open anything.

It’s also helpful to be aware of the utilities or programs that don’t open. So, it happens that the laptop won’t open anything including Start menu, laptop won’t open anything including the Internet, or including the Task Manager.

Why is my laptop not opening anything?

Though it’s hard to tell exactly why your laptop won’t open anything, these few events are often culpable:

  • Malware issue
    • Perhaps some malware may have taken over your laptop’s operating system.
  • Software conflict
    • It might be that a program you have installed recently isn’t compatible with one of your resident apps and is triggering this strange habit.
  • Registry issues
    • It’s also possible that some of your system files are damaged, missing, or mixed up causing these problems.
  • Stretched system resources

 Luckily, and after a lot of trial and error, we have discovered some working fixes.

How do I fix a laptop that doesn’t open anything?

✅ Pre-check Step: Restart your laptop

This is a simple solution, but rebooting helps clear up any settings that may be causing this issue to appear. After restarting, inspect if everything goes back to normal.

1. Boot into Safe Mode and Restore your PC

    If your laptop refused to load anything after a recent hardware/software change, boot into Safe Mode and restore your PC back to a restore point when everything was working.

  1. 1. Hold down your Power Button for about 10 seconds. This shuts down your device.

  2. 2. Turn on your laptop by pressing the Power button once more.

  3. 3. While Windows 10 boots, shut it down by holding the Power button.

  4. 4. Do this a few times until you enter the Windows recovery environment.

  5. 5. In the displayed Choose an option screen, click on Troubleshoot.

  6. 6. Then select Advanced options.

    my computer wont open any programs windows 7
  7. 7. Now choose Startup Settings then Restart.

    computer wont open anything windows 10
  8. 8. After your laptop restarts, select 4(or F4) to start it in Safe Mode.

    laptop-wont-open-anything
  9. 9. Click Start then choose Settings as soon as Safe Mode loads.

  10. 10. Type System Recovery in the settings search box.

    laptop-wont-open-anything
  11. 11. Click Create a restore point.

  12. 12. In the next System Properties window, select System Protection and then tap on System Restore.

    cant open anything on desktop
  13. 13. The Restore window opens as shown below.

    laptop-wont-open-anything
  14. 14. Click on one of the displayed restore points then follow the remaining steps.

    laptop wont open anything windows 10

You can as well try to run a thorough virus check while in Safe Mode just to be sure.

2. Repair your laptop using PowerShell

PowerShell can also help you recover the Windows components in charge of launching applications such as the Start Menu, Search, Settings, Cortana, Microsoft Edge, and more.

  1. Click Start then type cmd within the Windows 10 search box.
  2. Choose cmd then right click it and select Run as administrator.
    1. Click Yes when promoted by UAC.powershell laptop won't open anything
  3. Enter the following command then hit the Enter key:
    • PowerShell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestrictedpowershell command laptop won't open anything
  4. Go ahead and type the below command then hit Enter:
    • Get-AppXPackage-AllUsers|Where-Object {$_.InstallLocation -like “*SystemApps*”}|Foreach {Add-AppxPackage-DisableDevelopmentMode-Register “$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml”}powershell command 2 i can't open anything on my laptop

3. Reset Windows 10

Resetting Windows 10 helps free your laptop from rogue apps and drivers and may restore normal functionality.

  1. Select the Start button and then proceed to press and hold the Shift key.
  2. While holding the Shift key select the Power icon then choose Restart. This restarts the PC into Recovery Mode.
  3. Once it restarts, choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. reset this PC laptop won't open anything
  4. Wait for the process to complete.

4. Complete OS reinstall

If the issue is still there and your laptop won’t open anything, you might have to reinstall Windows 10. This procedure will delete all files and folders from your system drive, so be sure to back them up beforehand.

All in all, we have plenty of other similar guides in our dedicated System Errors Hub. So if other issues are affecting your laptop, check out the Laptop & PC Fix page.

There you go, feel free to try all of our solutions and let us know if they worked for you.

3 Best Ethernet Cable Extenders for Router and PC

Even though wireless technology has gone above and beyond offering blazing fast speed in the past years, the Ethernet cables still provide the most stable and highest speed connectivity possible.

However, at times you may have to rely on wireless technology because the Ethernet cable won’t reach your device.

Why do I need an Ethernet cable extender?

This is where an Ethernet cable extender comes in handy. It extends the reach of an existing Ethernet cable that is too short to reach a router or other devices at your home or office. You can use it for Wi-Fi without any issues.

In this article, we have listed the best Ethernet cable extender that you can buy for longer, unlimited, and reliable connectivity.

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

Which are the best Ethernet cable extenders?

Ruaeoda Ethernet Extension Cable

  • High quality, durable Ethernet extension cable
  • Up to 500 MHz upload and download speed
  • Patch cable connectivity
  • Nothing noticeable

Ruaeoda Ethernet Extension Cable offers up to 25 feet range. It is compatible with all the LAN network components including PCs, laptops, servers, printers, and switch boxes.

Ruaeoda Ethernet Extension Cable offers 550Mhz upload and download speed for high-speed data transfer for server applications, cloud computers, video surveillance, and online video streaming.

J&D Ethernet Extension Cable

  • High-quality Ethernet cable extender
  • Cat 6 cable with backward compatibility
  • Up to 550MHz bandwidth support
  • Nothing noticeable

J&D offers Cat6 Ethernet extender cable that is backward compatible with Cat 5, 5e cable making it compatible with your old Ethernet cables. With up to 15 feet range, it is a perfect solution to extend your current Ethernet cable reach.

J&D Ethernet Extension Cable supports bandwidth up to 550MHz and transmits data speed up to 1000Mbps making it ideal for online competitive gaming, video streaming, and data transfer.

UGREEN Ethernet Extension Cable

  • Premium quality Ethernet cable extender
  • Support up to 550MHz bandwidth
  • Backward compatible with Cat 5, 5e cable
  • Nothing noticeable

UGREEN’s Ethernet extension cable is a Cat6 extension patch cable RJ45 cord shielded male to female connector. This also allows you to extend the reach of your Ethernet cable to switch boxes, network printers, and NAS devices.

Similar to other Ethernet couplers in this list, UGREEN’s ether cable also supports up to 550 MHz of bandwidth offering high-speed data transfer for server applications, cloud computers, video streaming, and low ping in competitive games.

All the Ethernet cable extenders listed in this article are Cat6 cables. These cables also offer backward compatibility making them compatible with older Cat5 and Cat5e cables.

We hope you managed to choose the best Ethernet cable extender for you from our list. Let us know your pick in the comments section below.

Hirezlauncherui.exe: What is It & How to Fix The System Error?

You are not alone if you get a pop-up box with HiRezLauncherUI.exe Application Error when trying to launch the program related to Hi-Rez Studios Games. 

Here we will talk about Hirezlauncherui.exe and how to fix system errors related to the same. Let’s begin! 

What is Hirezlauncherui.exe?

Hirezlauncerui.exe is an executable file that is a part of the Hi-Rez Studios Games program developed by Hi-Rez Studios. It is a legit file and can be located here: C:\Program Files\Hi-Rez Studios\HiRezLauncherUI.exe

What causes the Hirezlauncherui.exe application error?

Some of the most popular reasons for this error are listed below: 

  • Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable – If your computer’s Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable file is corrupted or missing, you could see the error. You need to reinstall it.
  • Program installed incorrectly – If any of the Hi-Rez Studios games are installed on your computer incorrectly, it could be the reason for the error. Try reinstalling the program.

What can I do to fix the Hirezlauncherui.exe application error?

Before moving to the detailed troubleshooting methods, here are a few preliminary checks you should do: 

1. Download Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

  1. Visit this website.
  2. Under Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022 table, click on the link as per your PC’s architecture.Visual Studio  -hirezlauncherui.exe application error
  3. Once downloaded, double-click to Run the file.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompt to complete the installation.

2. Install Direct X End-User Runtime Web Installer

  1. Download DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer.hirezlauncherui.exe application error
  2. Install the file.
  3. Click Yes on UAC prompt.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

3. Reinstall the program

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.Appwiz- hirezlauncherui.exe application error
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter.
  3. Locate the program, and right-click on it to select Uninstall.Uninstall - hirezlauncherui.exe application error
  4. Download the game file from the official website. 
  5. Run the file and initiate the installation. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete.

4. Run Disk Cleanup

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.run cleanmgr command
  2. Type cleanmgr and hit Enter.
  3. On Disk Cleanup: Drive Selection window, click OK.C -hirezlauncherui.exe application error
  4. Click Clean up system files on the Disk Cleanup window.Clean up
  5. On the next window, click OK.
  6. Under Files to delete, select all the items and click OK.Disk cleanup
  7. On the next prompt, click Delete Files.

5. Use the Command Prompt

  1. Press the Windows key, type CMD and click Run as administrator.DOS COmmand Prompt
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after every command: sfc/scannow resmon
  3. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
  4. Restart your PC once the scan is complete.

6. Restart the Windows Update service

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.Services Run Command
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.
  3. Locate and right-click Windows Update and select Properties.Windows Update Properties
  4. Change the Startup type to Automatic, and under Service status, click Start.hirezlauncherui.exe application error Update
  5. Click Apply and OK.

So, these are the methods to fix the hirezlauncherui.exe application error. Try them and let us know which worked for you in the comments section below.

NVIDIA Shield Ethernet Not Connected [SOLVED]

NVIDIA‘s Shield TVs come with Internet connectivity because they work as gaming consoles and media streaming devices.

That said, some users have reported that their Nvidia Shield is not connecting to the Internet via Ethernet. Moreover, others said that their Nvidia Shield TV keeps losing Ethernet connection.

Why is my Nvidia Shield Ethernet not working?

The Nvidia Shield Ethernet not connected error seems to be occurring after the recent update which changes the IP Settings to Static by default.

While some of the users have reportedly fixed the issue by changing the IP Settings, the issue can vary depending on the user.

In this article, we discuss how to fix the Ethernet connection to the Shield TV if it’s not working properly.

How can I fix the Nvidia Shield Ethernet not connected issue?

Before trying out more complicated solutions, ensure that the Ethernet cable is properly plugged in. For some users, trying to force the cable deeper inside fixed the issue.

1. Change the IP Settings

Ethernet is not connected
  1. Turn on your Nvidia Shield TV.
  2. From the Home screen, go to Settings.
  3. Select the Network option.
  4. In the new window, select IP Settings.
  5. By default, it is set to Static. Change it to DCHP.
  6. Don’t change the IP address or Gateway setting. But make sure the settings are the same as Network Prefix Length and DNS fields.
  7. Save and exit the IP setting window.
  8. Try connecting to the internet and check if the error is resolved.

If the error persists, make sure change the IP setting back to Static and try again.


2. Change router DNS settings

Ethernet is not connected

Note: These steps are for Linksys routers. If you are using a different make, read the user manual to find the right way to change the DNS settings for your router.

  1. Open a web browser and sign in to your Linksys router’s web-based admin page.
  2. Go to Setup from the top menu.
  3. Select the Basic Setup option.
  4. In the Static DNS 1 field enter the primary DNS IP address. We are using the Cloudflare Open DNS address. Enter the following in the DNS 1 field.
    1.1.1.1
  5. In the Static DNS 2 field enter the following DNS IP address.
    208.67.222.222
  6. Alternatively, you can also use other public DNS addresses from Google and other providers.
  7. Leave the Static DNS 3 field blank.
  8. Click on the Save Settings button at the bottom to apply the changes.
  9. Click on the Continue button to proceed.
  10. Restart your Linksys router,
  11. Restart NVIDIA Shield TV.
  12. Connect to your network and check if the error is resolved.

3. Uninstall third-party apps

Ethernet is not connected
  1. Start Nvidia Shield TV.
  2. Click on Settings from the Home Screen.
  3. Select Apps. It will list all the apps installed on the system.
  4. Look for the most recently installed app like ES File Explorer and uninstall it.
  5. Restart Shield TV and check for any improvements.

Some third-party apps like ES File Explorer have known to cause some issues and removing the app has reportedly fixed the Ethernet is not connected error for the users.


4. Reset Shield TV

Ethernet is not connected
  1. From the Home screen, navigate to the Settings menu.
  2. Select the Device Preferences option.
  3. Select Reset.
  4. Next, select Erase everything.
  5. Nvidia Shield TV will erase all the data and reset the device to factory settings.
  6. Restart and try to connect to the Internet. Check for any improvements.

A factory reset should always be used as the last resort. Resetting the device will erase all the data including apps.

5. Use a different cable

If the Nvidia Shield Ethernet port not working issue still persists, check your Ethernet cable. If you are using Cat5 cable, consider upgrading to Cat6 for better connectivity.

If you have any other questions or suggestions regarding the Nvidia Shield Ethernet not connected/losing connection issue, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to check them out.

Disney Plus is Not Streaming Full Screen: Fix Aspect Ratio

There’s a reasonable explanation for Disney’s Plus not streaming full-screen problems. For instance, first episodes of The Simpsons weren’t designed for widescreen. Back in its early days, the 4:3 aspect ratio was the industry standard for old-school televisions.

So, when the first 19 seasons get converted to the current 16:9 standard, you are missing parts of the images. The good news is that we’re expecting a function to switch the episodes back to their original 4:3 aspect ratio shortly.

The top and bottom black bars are either cut off or occupy too much space and these little things could ruin the viewers’ experience. However, there are some nifty tricks you can apply until this happens.

How do I get Disney Plus to fit my screen?

1. Use some quick controls

Things aren’t at all complicated if you’re no stranger to similar media apps and own a device that comes with a keyboard attached.

Some useful keyboard shortcuts work on all supported PCs and laptops, including Chromebooks.

This time, you just need to press F to enter fullscreen mode and Esc to exit. As convenient as these shortcuts may sound, note that keyboard controls don’t work with the Disney Plus Android app on phones and tablets at the moment.

2. Switch to a different streaming device

streaming devices

Sometimes, 21:9 titles (as most movies on Disney Plus are) will have bars on top and bottom. They simply aren’t compatible with the aspect ratio that your device can display. Try switching to a different compatible device.

It’s disappointing when you cannot enjoy the full size of your ultrawide monitor, but things could be different on your tablet or phone. Just log in with your details and see if you can enjoy a better viewing experience.

3. Change your current browser

If nothing else worked so far, an efficient way to fix Disney+ issues is to watch it from another browser.

A great solution in this regard is Opera GX as your enhanced browser that offers faster navigation and supports better streaming quality for multiple platforms.

In addition, you have RAM and CPU limiter tools that are ideal for getting higher browsing and streaming results by just using less of your system resources.

Opera GX

Get the most out of your streaming on Disney+ and consider this featured browser to fix any irritating issues.

4. Keep an eye on fresh updates

On the old Simpsons World app from FXX, you could toggle between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios. It’s a bit of a shame that we’re still waiting for this feature on Disney Plus, but that’s why checking for updates in your streaming device’s app store is recommended.

When the long-wanted feature finally rolls out, you don’t want to be the one missing it. No less important, in addition to making streaming full screen enjoyable again, this should also fix the fuzzy look of all these episodes that got cropped and expanded to fill a large screen.

Why does the aspect ratio change on Disney Plus?

The first reason you have a different aspect ratio on Disney Plus movies is that many Disney productions were created for screens like the theater or old tube TV.

So, you may find content on Disney+ that doesn’t offer the 16:9 aspect ratio due to format reasons.

If you have other suggestions for tackling this problem, let us know by using the comments section below so that other users can try them as well.

Huge Christmas Sale for AMS Software: Graphics Design Apps

Whether you’re looking for a photo or video editing tool or a creative design app, AMS Software has one for that purpose.

Now, the developer has launched a Christmas Sale campaign to offer discounts of up to 70% on 10 of their products.

What are the tools included in the AMS Christmas Sale?

As we mentioned, there are 10 products included in the Christmas Sale, divided into 4 major categories:

  • Photo editing tools: PhotoWorks, PhotoDiva, PhotoGlory
  • Creative design apps: Photo Calendar Creator, Photo Collage Maker, Home Photo Studio
  • Video creation tools: SmartSHOW 3D, Clipify
  • Practical graphics design apps: Passport Photo Maker, Interior Design 3D

In this article, we will outline some essential information on these tools and how they can help you.

What are the main advantages of AMS Software?

PhotoWorks – Intelligent photo editing tool

PhotoWorks is a simple but effective photo editor that features AI technology for background and object changing and removal.

It also comes with more than 200 artistic one-click effects and 3D LUT presets that will satisfy both beginner and expert editors.

You may also use it to fix the contrast, vibrance, and exposure of your pictures with a click of the mouse.

PhotoWorks is now only $39.99, down from $114 but it also has a free trial version so you can test it before.

⇒ Get PhotoWorks on Christmas Sale

PhotoDiva – Excellent for portrait enhancements

Whether you have a photo studio or just need a great professional portrait shot, PhotoDiva is the tool you need.

It’s specialized in fixing or improving portraits and does that with just a few clicks thanks to its content-aware AI technology.

This software makes the photo retouching process completely automatic. It smoothens the skin, gets rid of blemishes, whitens teeth, and even applies digital makeup.

Right now, in the Christmas Sale deal, the tool is only $16.80 down from $56 which is really a bargain.

⇒ Get PhotoDiva on Christmas Sale

PhotoGlory – Old photo restoration & colorization

If you have old photos with your family and friends, don’t let them get destroyed and lost. The PhotoGlory app can help you restore them as if they were taken yesterday.

With this AI enhancement tool, you can erase scratches, stains, ink splotches, and tears, or even colorize old photos in much more vivid tones.

Moreover, you may even restore torn photos that may seem lost and apply over 100 one-click photo effects.

You can get this tool right now for only $22.40, down from $56, and restore all those kind memories.

⇒ Get PhotoGlory on Christmas Sale

Photo Calendar Creator – Good for making personalized calendars

A calendar is not only a source of information but also a great artwork piece and the Photo Calendar Creator app is here to help you personalize it to your liking.

The tool comes with more than 250 wall, booklet, desk, and pocket calendar templates that will get you started.

However, you can always use your own photos, highlight holidays, birthdays, and special events, then print them for any purpose.

Photo Calendar Creator is just $29.75, down from $85 but you may also download it for free and test it before buying.

⇒ Get Photo Calendar Creator on Christmas Sale

Photo Collage Maker – Perfect for collage creation

To make that special banner with meaningful photo composition, you just need a hint of talent and the Photo Collage Maker app.

You can even forget about the talent part because this too comes with over 450 ready-made templates and grid layouts.

You just need to find the right one for you, insert your photos and then funk them up with more than 650 masks, frames, and cliparts available.

Photo Collage Maker can be yours for just $28, down from $70 and that’s a significant deal!

⇒ Get Photo Collage Maker on Christmas Sale

Home Photo Studio – Creative photo editing

Home Photo Studio is not only an easy-to-use photo editor but also a creative design tool that will produce desired results in seconds.

You can play with hundreds of professional-level effects and process images in batches with ease.

Then, you may even create stunning greeting cards by using over 1000 available templates.

In the Christmas Sale offer, Home Photo Studio’s price is only $21, down from $70 so hurry up!

⇒ Get Home Photo Studio on Christmas Sale

SmartSHOW 3D – Design the perfect slideshow

With SmartSHOW 3D it’s extremely easy to mix photos, video, and music into the most engaging slideshows.

There are over 500 transitions, animations & 3D effects inside this amazing app to play with.

And after you have the slideshow, you can convert it to more than 30 formats or burn it to a DVD, or send it to your friends.

It’s not easy to create a great slideshow, but for $39.96 (down from $99.90), SmartSHOW 3D will provide the perfect help.

⇒ Get SmartSHOW 3D on Christmas Sale

Clipify – Best lightweight video editor

Clipify is the top app on our list of the best lightweight video editors, which says a lot about this tool.

It’s an all-in-one video editor for beginner filmmakers that you may use to create Full HD videos in more than 20 formats and upload them to YouTube in seconds.

The software even comes with Chroma Key, and over 160 effects & filters that will make your clip look professional.

This professional video editor for beginners is a bargain at $29.75 (down from $85) on this year’s Christmas Sale offer.

⇒ Get Clipify on Christmas Sale

Passport Photo Maker – Great for passport photo creation

Whether you need a photo for a passport, ID, or Visa, Passport Photo Maker caters to any of your needs.

This software comes with up-to-date passport photo templates for 130 countries.

Not only that, but with this tool, you may replace unsuitable clothes or change the background color in the photo with one mouse click.

You could easily start a photo desk business with Passport Photo Maker, do the $11.99 price (down from $39.95) is really a great offer.

⇒ Get Passport Photo Maker on Christmas Sale

Interior Design 3D – Great for designing the dream home

If you’re an architect or an interior designer or just want to create your dream home, Interior Design 3D is a great software for that.

It is a real-time 3D planning and virtual walkthrough tool that features over 600 materials for home decoration.

The best part is that you don’t know anything about architecture to draw out any home plan or house.

And the price of $29.05 (down from $83) is ridiculously attractive for such complex software.

⇒ Get Interior Design 3D on Christmas Sale

This was the AMS selection of tools included in their Christmas Sale offer and we hope that you have found the best one for your needs.

We also have a selection of the best raster graphics editors if you need more ideas in that department.

Which product did you choose and why? Tell us all about your selection in the comments section below.

How To Check Network Card Speed (LAN Speed)

Your PC’s network adapter card connects your PC to the Internet. If you’ve ever wondered what your network card connection speed amounts to, there are various ways to check its link speed.

Follow along as we will show you how to check your network card speed and answer some of your most asked questions.

Let’s see how you can check your network card speed in Windows 10 without additional software without further ado. Keep on reading!

How can I check my network card speed?

1. Use Network monitoring software

Monitor network traffic in Windows with PRTG

Some network-monitoring software includes monitoring tools that provide network card speed details. For instance, Paessler PRTG is a highly-rated network monitor with a Windows Network Card sensor. It can help you test your network speed very easily.

That sensor is handy for monitoring bandwidth and provides extensive network card stats.

Aside from its wide range of network sensors, PRTG has extremely flexible alerting features. For example, it incorporates 13 alert mechanisms for unusual metrics detected.

PRTG users can choose email, SMS, SNMP trap, push notifications, and slack messaging messages, among others, to keep them notified.

Other useful Paessler PRTG features

  • Its users can utilize web-based or desktop PRTG apps
  • PRTG enables users to view network data with real-time maps
  • Provides in-depth reporting for its users with historical data reports
  • This software also allows users to access multiple networks with remote probes

PRTG

Check your network speed and monitor your traffic like a PRTG software pro.
Free trial Visit website

2. Via the Network and Sharing Center

  1. Press Windows and input control. Choose Control Panel from the list of results.control-panel-serarch-w10 opera not responding
  2. Change the View by option to Large icons.view-large 0x80070002 windows update
  3. Then select Network and Sharing Center.network-sharing-center check network card speed
  4. Click Change adapter settings to open your PC’s network device list.
  5. Double-click your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network adapter card to open the Status window for it.
  6. Then look for the Speed value on the Status window, which is your network card speed.

This is one of the easiest ways to check your network card speed in Windows 10, so try it out.

3. Check network card speed via Settings

  1. Open the Settings app with the Windows + I hotkey, then select Network & Internet.
  2. Then click View hardware and connection properties to open network card details.
  3. Then scroll down to the Link speed for your Wi-Fi/Ethernet network adapter card.

This is another fast and easy method to check network card speed in Windows 10.

4. Check LAN speed in cmd

  1. First, you’ll need to press Windows, type cmd, and open the Command Prompt result as an administrator.cmd-run-admin 0x80070002 windows update
  2. Enter the following command into the Prompt’s window and press Enter: wmic nic where netEnabled=true get name, speedwmic check network card speed
  3. Note the speed figure specified within the Command Prompt. This is how you can check the network card speed in Windows 10 via the command line.

5. With PowerShell

  1. Press Windows + X, then choose Windows Powershell (Admin).windows-powershell-admin check network card speed
  2. Input this command into PowerShell’s window: Get-NetAdapter | select interfaceDescription, name, status, linkSpeedget-net check network card speed
  3. Press the Enter keyboard key to view network adapter details.
    The Get-NetAdapter command check network card speed windows 10
  4. Check your network card’s speed specified within the LinkSpeed column.

The above methods for checking network card speed provide valuable insight into your network card’s theoretical maximum speed and other technical specifications.

How can I change LAN speed from 100 to 1000 on Windows 10?

  1. Press Windows, then type Ethernet and select Ethernet settings.
  2. Here, select Change adapter options.change-adapter check network card speed
  3. Double-click Ethernet.
  4. Here, you will see the speed setup. speed check network card speed
  5. To change it, click Properties followed by Configure.prop-ethernet check network card speed
  6. Please navigate to the Advanced tab, scroll down until you find the Speed and Duplex option, select it, and set the value to 1.0 Gbps Full Duplex.1gb check network card speed

The Gigabit Ethernet protocol, much like its predecessor, supports operation in either the half-duplex or full-duplex mode.

When using the full-duplex mode, frames move in both directions concurrently across two channels on the same connection. This results in an aggregate bandwidth twice as large as in half-duplex mode.

Is there an Ethernet cable speed limit?

The speeds attained through an Ethernet connection are often constrained by the particular Ethernet cable installed.

The maximum data transfer rate for a Cat5 connection is 100 Mbps, while the maximum data transfer rate for a Cat5e and Cat6 connection is 1,000 Mbps, and the maximum data transfer rate for a Cat6a connection and above is 10,000 Mbps.

The type of Ethernet cable you choose will not have a significant effect on the overall performance of your home network, and this is true for the vast majority of home networking setups.

How do I find my network card specs?

  1. Press Windows, then type system info and select the top result.system-info check network card speed
  2. From the left panel, click the plus button next to Components, followed by Network, then select Adapter.adapter check network card speed
  3. You will find all the network card specs you need on the right side.

Lastly, we recommend you look at our list of the 8 best bandwidth limiter tools for Windows 10/11. In case you want to monitor your Internet speed, we have a guide on how to use a Net Speed Monitor Windows 11, so don’t miss it.

Was this a helpful guide to you? Don’t hesitate to comment in the section below and share your opinions with us. Thanks for reading!

Fix: A D3D11 Compatible GPU is Required to Run the Engine

If you’re a gamer, it’s almost sure that you have run into a d3d11-compatible GPU required to run the engine error. 

This is a prevalent issue in the PC gaming world and takes away time you could use playing games. 

The most common source of D3D11 errors is a faulty d3d11 file in the DirectX software, but the errors might also indicate a registry or virus issue.

If you have run into this error, read till the end to find out how to bypass it. 

What is a D3D11 GPU?

The GPU is widely utilized in graphics and video processing because of its parallel processing capabilities. 

While the terms GPU and graphics cards are used similarly, there is a difference. A graphics card is an add-in board that houses the GPU, just like a motherboard. You’ll also find the slew of needed components to power and install the GPU within this board.

The Direct3D card acts as a library for accessing the card for graphics and hardware-accelerated processing.

In recent times, D3D11 is now commonly used. This new library variant includes updated features and can increase visual clarity.

How do you check your GPU?

  1. Click on Windows + S.
  2. In the search bar, enter Device Manager.
  3. Open the control panel.
  4. Click on the Display Adapters dropdown to view the GPU in the new window.
  5. Double-click the result to see extra details.

After checking whether it’s activated, you’re advised to update your GPU drivers. In the next section, you’ll learn how to go about it on Windows 11. Read on.

How do you update your GPU?

  1. Press Windows + S.
  2. In the search bar, enter Device Manager.
  3. Open the control panel.
  4. In the new window, click on the Display Adapters dropdown to view the name of the GPU.
  5. Right-click on the GPU.
  6. Click on Update Driver.
  7. In the new window, select Search automatically for drivers.

To save time and prevent having outdated drivers in the future, you can use Outbyte Driver Updater. It uses a comprehensive driver database to check your drivers and install new versions as soon as they are available.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

What can I do if it says a compatible d3d11 GPU is required?

➡ Windows 11

  1. Go to the DirectX End-User Runtime download page.
  2. Click on download and wait for the program to install.
  3. After downloading, right-click on the .exe file.
  4. Select run as administrator.
  5. Try relaunching the game after a PC reboot.

Alternatively, it could be that you need to replace the GPU entirely. If it’s older than five years, it’s probably time to change it, as the game engine uses different graphics components.

➡ Windows 10

  1. Select settings from the start menu.
  2. Windows Update & Security will appear as a menu option on the following window. Here, you can search for new updates.
  3. Any GPU that needs to be installed will be done automatically. 

➡ Windows 7

  1. Click on the control panel by opening the Windows start menu.
  2. Tap on system and security. 
  3. Tap on Windows update.
  4. Check for available updates.
  5. If you can’t find any available updates, tap on check for updates.
  6. Check for graphic card drivers. You can find them in the main view or optional updates section. 
  7. When you find a graphic card driver, click on it to install and wait for it to finish installing. 

How do I fix Fortnite not compatible graphics card

  1. Ensure that your PC fulfills the hardware requirements for playing the game. 
  2. Update your graphics card driver.
  3. Reboot your PC

D3D11 compatible GPU Fortnite

To play Fortnite, you need a compatible D3D11 component installed on your device. If you don’t, you may encounter some errors. A solution to fixing the error is to update your Windows version. Alternatively, you can also read this piece to learn how to update GPU drivers.

Thank you for reading this article, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments section.

Task Manager Dark Mode: How to Enable It on Windows 10 & 11

The dark theme has been an attractive feature of the Windows operating system. In the past, when you enabled the dark mode on Windows 10 or early releases of Windows 11, the Task Manager remained light.

However, Microsoft has changed this in the Windows 11 22h2 update as part of the many features to improve the aesthetic of the already stunning OS. So, for those wondering does Windows 11 have dark mode Task Manager, the answer is yes.

So, with this, you can quickly turn it on and off on your Windows. While this looks easy, you still need to know how to do it, and we will take you through the steps in this guide.

How can I turn dark mode on/off in Task Manager on Windows 11?

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings and select the Personalization option in the left pane.
  2. Select the Colors option.
    colors task manager dark mode
  3. Now, click the dropdown before Choose your mode and select the Custom option.
    choose mode
  4. Click the dropdown before Choose your default Windows mode and select Dark.
    choose windows mode
  5. Now, click the dropdown menu before Choose your default app mode and select Dark.
    choose app task manager dark mode
  6. Press the Shift + Ctrl+ Esc keys to launch the Task Manager; it should have changed to black with the other parts of your PC.
  7. Finally, repeat Steps 1 to 2 to turn off the dark mode and select the Light option in Step 3 instead.

That’s how you can get dark-themed Task Manager on Windows 11. Also, you can turn it off by reverting to the default settings.

And if it appears that Windows 11 Task Manager dark mode is not working, restart the computer once for the changes to effect fully.

You might also be interested in reading our guide on how to schedule Dark Mode in Windows.

How can I turn dark mode on/off in Task Manager on Windows 10?

Note icon NOTE
Since the dark mode feature for Task Manager came with the Windows 11 22h2 update, there is a workaround that can get the dark mode on Task Manager on Windows 10.
  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Ease of Access.Ease of Access  Dark mode Task Manager Windows 10
  3. Now from the left pane, select High contrast.
  4. Under Use high contrast, click the toggle switch towards On for Turn on high contrast.High contrast black theme
  5. For Choose a theme, select High Contrast Black.
  6. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager and see the results.Taskmgr in dark mode

The process to enable Task Manager dark mode in Windows 10 is quite complex compared to the latest iteration.

If you don’t want to put your computer in high contrast mode, the only viable option is to install a theme for Windows 10, a dark one, to be precise. Or you could check our curated list of the best free themes for Windows 10.

That is all there is to enable and disable the dark mode for the Task Manager.

Also, if you want to switch back to the light mode but Windows 11 gets stuck in the dark mode, check our detailed guide to force it through.

Let us know if you encounter any problems switching to dark mode in the comments below.

Xbox Error Code 807b0193: How to Fix It in 3 Steps

If you have been experiencing the Xbox error code 807b0193, which indicates that the Live service is down or there is a problem with your Live profile, you don’t have to worry, as you’re not the only one in this. Hence, this guide will provide possible fixes for the error.

Why do I get the Xbox error code 807b0193?

There can be several reasons you are experiencing the Xbox error code 807b0193. According to some of our readers, the following are the common reasons behind the error:

  • The Xbox Live service is down temporarily – If the Xbox Live service is temporarily out of service, you may get the Xbox error code 807b0193. For this, you simply need to be patient for a couple of hours till the service is restored.
  • Something is wrong with your Xbox Live profile – You can also get the Xbox error code 807b0193 if your Xbox Live profile has issues. It could also prevent your profile from connecting to the console.
  • Connection issues – Another most likely cause of this error is when your Xbox console is having trouble connecting to the Internet or is unable to connect to the Xbox Live service.
  • Outdated Xbox console – If your Xbox console has not been updated in quite some time, you likely may receive this error code.

Now that you know the potential reasons behind the Xbox error code 807b0193, let’s proceed to how you can fix this problem.

How do I fix the Xbox error code 807b0193?

Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks, you should ensure they perform the following:

  • Press and hold the Xbox button on your console for about 10 seconds to turn off your console completely. Next, disconnect the power cable from your console for at least one minute. Plug the power cable back in and press the Xbox button to turn on your console.
  • Make sure there is a proper connection anywhere between your Xbox console and router or modem for good internet.
  • Wait a few hours for Microsoft to complete their maintenance before you try again.

However, after confirming the above checks and you can’t seem to fix the Xbox error code 807b0193, you can explore the advanced solutions below.

1. Confirm your connection to Xbox Live

  1. Follow this link to check the Xbox status page.
  2. If you find any services with alerts, expand the service.
  3. Then, navigate to Notifications, and Sign in to get a notification when the service is back online.

You can directly confirm your connection to Xbox live on the Xbox status page which will enable you to fix the Xbox error code 807b0193.

2. Run the Network connection test on Xbox

  1. Press the Xbox button to open the guide. Click on Profile & system and navigate to Settings.
  2. Next, choose Network, and click on Network Settings where any known outages will appear in the middle of the screen.
  3. Select Advanced settings.
  4. Then select Test Network Connection to see if your console connects to Xbox Live.

Conducting a network connection test would help clear the doubts about your Xbox connections.

3. Factory reset your Xbox console

  1. Press the Xbox button to open the guide. Click on Profile & system and navigate to Settings.
  2. Click on System and then select Console info.
  3. Under Console info, select Reset console.
  4. Choose Reset and remove everything from the options. This option resets your console to factory settings.

Before resetting your Xbox console to factory settings, you should consider contacting Xbox support.

Make sure you work your way through the fixes provided in this article to know which one works best for you.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

[Fixed] Windows Host Process Rundll32 High CPU Usage

High disk and CPU usage problems in Windows computers is nothing new. While the high disk usage can be usually fixed by installing a high-speed SSD, the high CPU usage problem is not hardware-based.

Windows host process rundll32 high CPU and disk usage is one such issue annoying many Windows users.

The DLL extension is used to store common application logic accessed by other common applications.

High disk and CPU usage by Windows host process rundll32 can occur due to scheduled tasks or if the computer has malware issues.

This article explores a few troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the Windows host process rundll32 high disk / CPU usage problem in Windows 10.


How can I fix Windows host process rundll32 high CPU usage?

1. Disabled items from the Task Scheduler

  1. Press the Windows key, type administrative tools, and open it. 
  2. In the File Explorer window, scroll down and launch Task Scheduler.
  3. In Task Scheduler, expand the Task Scheduler Library and navigate to the Task Scheduler Library then select Microsoft. Expand the Windows section and select Customer Experience Improvement.
  4. On the right pan, right-click on Consolidator.
    windows host process rundll32 high disk usage
  5. Select Properties.
  6. Open the Triggers tab.
  7. Select the OneTime trigger and click on Edit.
    windows host process rundll32 high disk usage
  8. In the Edit Trigger window, uncheck the Enabled box under Advanced Settings.
  9. Click OK to save the changes.
    windows host process rundll32 high disk usage
  10. Now go back to the Item list, right-click on the following items one by one, and select Disable. The items that you need to disable are following:
    • Consolidator
    • UsbCeip

Note: After you’ve performed these steps, don’t forget to restart your computer.

After the restart, check if the Windows Host process rundll32 high CPU usage is gone.

If not, make sure to reverse the changes made in the earlier steps to enable Consolidator from the properties and item list.

2. Use specialized repair software

DLL errors are somewhat common, and fixing them manually can be a hassle, especially if you can’t find the culprit of the problem.

Therefore, to fix issues with Windows Host process rundll32 and other software, we suggest using specialized third-party tools.

3. Disable Telemetry services

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialogue box.
  2. Type services.msc and click OK.
  3. In the Services window, search for Connected User Experience service.
  4. Righ-click on the service and select Properties.
  5. Click the Stop button to stop the service.
  6. Set the Startup Type to Disabled.

  7. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

Close the Services window and restart your computer. Open the Task Manager to check if the high disk and CPU usage issue is resolved.

Microsoft’s User Experience service is also known to cause high disk and CPU usage problem.

Disabling the service seem to have resolved the problem with Windows Host process rundll32.

4. Uninstall Google App Engine

  1. Press the Windows key + R.
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and click OK.
  3. In the Control Panel, locate Google App Engine.

  4. Click on Uninstall. Confirm the action by clicking on Uninstall/Yes.
  5. Once uninstalled, reboot the computer and check for any improvements.

Many users have reported the Windows Host process rundll32 problem was resolved after removing the software, so be sure to try that.

5. Uninstall Lenovo Dependency package

  1. Press the Windows key, type control, and open Control Panel.
  2. Go to Programs and choose Programs and Features.
  3. Right-click on Lenovo Dependency Package and select Uninstall. Confirm the action by clicking on Yes.
    windows host process rundll32 high disk usage
  4. You may need to restart your computer to see any changes.

Lenovo Dependency Package is a set of services and drivers installed on old Lenovo machines to help with Lenovo Settings.

However, at times the package can cause high disk and CPU usage issues. Removing the package should fix the problem.

The Windows host process rundll32 high disk and CPU usage problem can occur due to several reasons.

Follow the steps in this article one by one and let us know which step helped you resolve the problem in the comments.

GSvr.exe: What is It? How to Fix its High CPU Usage?

GSvr.exe is an executable file, and these types of files are vital in your computer. On the one hand, because they run operations or perform functions.

However, that is also the danger with executable files, because viruses can come in the form of executable files and perform harmful operations to damage your system. So, should you keep or remove this file? Read this post to the end to find out.

In this case, GSvr.exe is part of GIGABYTE’s Energy Saver Advance program, or so it should be. However, a virus or malware can mask as a legitimate file and cause you to have problems such as high CPU usage when it runs in the background.

Is GSvr.exe safe or a virus?

With GSvr.exe, you are in a tricky situation. On the one hand, this executable file may be a critical process for Energy Saver. On the other hand, it could be a virus that can damage your hard drive.

Before you decide to remove it, here’s how to confirm that the GSvr.exe is malicious.

is-GSvr.exe-virus
  • First is the location of the GSvr.exe process. If you find it residing in any directory other than the following path, it may be a virus.
C:\Program Files\GIGABYTE\EnergySaver\essvr.exe
  • Next, check the size of the file. You can compare the sizes using Task Manager. The size of the legit GSvr.exe should be around 16.9 MB. If the file on your system is larger or smaller than this, you should delete it.

How do I fix high CPU usage on GSvr.exe?

1. Use a security tool in Safe Mode

To prevent an infection of your PC, you have to make use of a professional security tool, such as Malwarebytes.

In some instances of this problem, users reported that the GSvr.exe file itself prevented the deletion. The way to disable the process to be able to remove it is by running the tool in Safe Mode.

To boot your PC into Safe Mode, follow the steps below:

  1. Go to Windows Settings by pressing the Windows + I keys
  2. Next, click on Update & Security.
    GSvr.exe-update-and-security
  3. Next, choose the Recovery option.
  4. In Recovery, select Advanced startup.
  5. Next, select Restart now. Your computer will now reboot.
  6. When the PC’s screen lights up, you will be taken to the Choose an option screen. Here, go to Troubleshoot.
  7. Next, click on Advanced options and navigate to Startup > Settings > Restart.
  8. If you set BitLocker, you will now have to enter your BitLocker recovery key.
  9. Finally, when the machine comes on, you will be on a screen where you need to choose a startup type. Here, press 4 or F4, and your PC will boot into Safe Mode.

Note: If BitLocker throws the famous Fatal Error, fix it fast by following our specialized guide on this topic.


2. Uninstall the program from Control Panel

  1. Press the Windows key to get into the Start menu.
  2. Next, search for Control Panel and click on it.
  3. In Control Panel, find the Uninstall a Program option under Programs and select that. This button is called Add or Remove Programs in earlier Windows versions.
    control-panel-remove-app-GSvr.exe
  4. On the next page, you have a list of programs currently installed on your computer. Locate and right-click on Energy Saver Advance B9.0316.1.
  5. From the context menu select Remove or Change/Remove.
  6. This opens up the uninstall wizard for Energy Saver Advance B9.0316.1.
  7. Follow the instructions by this wizard to uninstall the program.
  8. Lastly, restart your computer to get rid of the GSvr.exe file completely.

The GSvr.exe file is safe to remove from your system, unlike most other executable files that may be crucial to the functioning of your machine.

You can also get problems on your computer, such as a high CPU usage, thanks to the GSvr.exe file.

In this article, we’ve explored the GSvr.exe file and given a brief overview of this executable, and also covered ways to tell if the file is safe or malicious.

[wl_navigator]

Windows Widgets High CPU Usage: How to Fix it on Windows 11

Windows 11 has a built-in widget platform and can contribute to high CPU usage. These widgets can be used to display the weather forecasts, sports scores, and clock.

Whereas they may be useful to some extent, some users complained that Windows 11 Widgets are using too much CPU. This widget issue is most common on Windows 11 devices, but older versions of Windows can also experience this problem.

The widgets are a useful feature that provides you with information at a glance. But, sometimes, when the Widget panel is open, it starts consuming CPU or memory and the system performance drops down.

The CPU is the brain of your computer. It performs all the calculations and processes that your machine needs to function, so if it’s running unusually slow, you may want to investigate the issue.

If a widget is using up most of your computer’s resources (CPU, memory, disk space, etc.) then you should turn it off because that means it is using up all of the resources that could be used by other processes, thus slowing down your computer.

There are several causes of high CPU usage. It may be that you have installed too many programs on your computer and they are taking up too much space. The best solution to this problem is to uninstall some of those programs from your computer.

It is also possible that there has been an infection on your system that has caused the files to become infected with viruses or spyware. This will cause the computer to run more slowly and use more resources than normal

Does Windows 11 use more CPU than Windows 10?

Windows 11 is more demanding than its older siblings. This is quite evident in the minimum system requirements. 

The OS has also been designed with security in mind. It includes built-in antivirus and firewall protection, as well as a host of other security features.

The size of Windows 11 itself is demanding. Its download size is more than 4GB which means that you may need more hard drive space than you would with other versions of this operating system, which also leads to higher consumption of memory by default.

Another reason why Windows 11 uses more CPU is that it has several features that were not possible with Windows 10. The inclusion of new application programs has been designed for use only with Windows 11.

With the widgets on Windows 11, it is likely to take up more CPU than Windows 10. If you want to stop your CPU from using too much energy, you will need to turn off some of the features that cause it to do so.

For example, you can tweak the Power Management settings which allow the computer to turn off when it’s not in use.

Be sure to check out the differences and similarities between Windows 10 and Windows 11 to better understand the two operating systems..

What can I do to fix Windows 11 widgets high CPU usage?

1. Disable widgets from Task Manager

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Personalization.
  2. Scroll down and click on Taskbar.
  3. Toggle the widgets button off.

2. Update drivers

  1. Press the Windows key, search Check for updates, and click Open.
  2. Select Advanced options.
  3. Go to Optional updates.
  4. Select Driver updates and proceed to Download & install then restart your system.

You can also choose to go for convenience and use a third-party tool. With Outbyte Driver Updater, you don’t need to worry about making a mistake when installing. A wrong driver can cause serious system problems, but with Outbyte Driver Updater you don’t have to worry about anything. This smart software will do everything for you.

The tool also works in the background and keeps your drivers always up-to-date. It automatically scans your PC for devices and checks if there are new versions of their drivers available.

3. Run a system scan

  1. Press the Windows key, search Windows Security, and click Open.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection.virus and threat protection steam error e502 l3
  3. Next, press Quick scan under Current threats.quick scan
  4. Wait for the process to finish.

 4. Run DISM command

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd on the search bar and click Run as administrator.
  2. Type in the following command then press Enter: DISM /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth
  3. Restart your PC for the changes to take place.

5. Run SFC command

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd on the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
  2. Type in the following command then press Enter: sfc /scannow sfc-scannow win + x not working windows 11

How can I check for CPU usage in Windows 11?

At some point, the performance of your PC will prompt you to check what is consuming too much CPU so you can disable it.

There are many reasons why Windows 11 runs slow, and there are many possible solutions. For example, some programs may require more system resources than others. It is possible that your computer might be running slow because it has an outdated driver or software.

To get to the root of the problem, you will need to check the CPU usage. Here’s how to check your CPU usage in Windows 11:

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Task Manager in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Select the Perfomance tab and click on CPU.
  3. The apps consuming too much CPU can be found at the top.

Do widgets drain battery?

Apart from CPU consumption, another common question that comes up often is whether widgets drain batteries.

Most obviously, if you run more software, the more work your computer will do, and so the faster its battery will drain.

If you are using a widget, it’s a good bet that the app that created it is running in the background, occasionally waking up to update itself.

Depending on what the widget does, and how often it does it, this can use up more battery than you want. If the widget is a clock, for example, the app might be waking up every couple of minutes to update its display. 

While it isn’t necessary to delete all of your widgets, it’s best to keep only those that you absolutely need. If you have widgets for weather apps or social media apps that you don’t use very often, consider deleting them from your home screens.

You can also apply some of our recommended solutions to make your Windows 11 faster and more responsive.

We also have an excellent guide on software you can use to fix high CPU usage and save yourself some of these troubles.

If your widgets were consuming a considerable amount of CPU, we hope this article has offered efficient solutions and your PC’s performance has improved.

As always, we love hearing from you so don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Can’t Reach DHCP Server: 5 Ways to Fix it

Many users rerported issues with their Internet connection, and they have encountered Can’t reach the DHCP server the network connection quality might be low error message. This can be a problem, but there are ways to fix it.

Why is the DHCP server not reachable?

There are several reasons, including outdated network adapter drivers, wireless adapter settings or glitches with DHCP.

How can I fix the Can’t reach DHCP server error?

Before trying anything else, try restarting your router or modem. Also, try disconnecting the network cable from the router/modem. Inspect network cables for hardware damage.

1. Update or reinstall your network drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X, and select Device Manager.
    device manager windows 11 win+x menu
  2. Select a category to see names of devices, then right-click on the one you’d like to update.
  3. Select Update driver.
    update driver device manager
  4. Click on Search automatically for updated driver software.
    automatic driver search
  5. Once it’s done updating you’re all set.

To reinstall your network drivers, follow these steps:

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Locate your network device, right-click it and choose Uninstall device.
    uninstall device device manager
  3. Check the Remove driver software for this device option.
  4. Select Uninstall.
  5. Click the Scan for hardware changes icon.
    scan for hardware changes
  6. Windows will now try to install the default driver.

2. Change wireless adapter settings

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Locate your wireless adapter and double-click it.
  3. Navigate to the Advanced tab.
  4. Locate 802.11a/b/g Wireless Mode and set it to any 2.4GHz value.
    wireless mode advanced tab

This is a simple solution if you can’t reach DHCP server on WiFi, but keep in mind that 2.4GHz connection is slower.

3. Register your DNS via cmd

  1. Type cmd in your Start Menu. Open Command Prompt.CMD elevated
  2. Enter ipconfig /registerdns
  3. Type exit in Command Prompt.
  4. Restart your PC.

4. Enable or disable DHCP

  1. Search for View network connections and select the first option.
  2. Double-click the active network connection. Next, select Properties.
  3. Click on Internet Protocol Version 4. Select Properties.
    Internet Protocol Version 4(TCPIPv4) Properties
  4. Click on Use the following IP address.
    use the following ip address w11
  5. Enter the values for your IP Address, Subnet Mask, etc. And check if that works.
  6. If DHCP is disabled, click on both Obtain an IP Address automatically and Obtain DNS Server Address Automatically and save changes.

This method can be useful if you can’t reach DHCP server via Ethernet on Windows 11.

5. Restart your DHCP client service

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
    services.msc run window
  2. Scroll down to the DHCP Client service and double-click on it to get to its properties.
    DHCP client
  3. Make sure Service status is set to Running; if not, click on Start.
    service start button
  4. Make sure the Startup type is set to Automatic, then click Apply and OK.
    startup type automatic

We hope that these solutions worked for you in solving the unable to contact your DHCP server error message and that your Ethernet works fine now.

To learn more, we have a guide on what to do if DHCP is not enabled for Wi-Fi or if it’s not enabled on Ethernet. For Windows 11 users, we have a great guide on what to do if DHCP is not working on Windows 11, so don’t miss it.

Before you leave, you might be interested in our DHCP server stopped working guide.

Let us know what other network issues you have faced, in the comments section down below.

0x800701AA in OneDrive: How to Fix This Cloud Error

OneDrive is an online cloud storage service from Microsoft. It allows users to store files and access them from anywhere on any device. The primary purpose of using this service is to sync files between multiple devices so that you can access your documents from anywhere you want.

However, sometimes users face issues with this service and its performance. Sometimes the error code 0x800701AA may appear on your computer screen when downloading files from your OneDrive account. 

Why am I getting the error 0x800701AA in One Drive?

Below are some possible causes of why you aren’t able to download files from One Drive:

  • Unstable internet connection – If your device doesn’t have an active internet connection at all times then you won’t be able to download any files from OneDrive until it does.
  • Insufficient storage – If you’re trying to download a large file and don’t have enough storage space on your device, you may get this error code.
  • Corrupt file – If there’s a problem with the file you’re trying to download, it may present some issues.
  • The file is too large – If you’re trying to retrieve an extremely large file, OneDrive may not be able to handle the process.
  • Server error – If Microsoft servers are undergoing maintenance, their services may also experience downtime, and you’ll get The Cloud operation was not completed error message.
  • The folder is inaccessible – It is also possible that the folder containing the file is not accessible at the moment.

How can I fix the error 0x800701AA in One Drive?

As you attempt to find a fix, try the basic checks first:

  • Close any background apps.
  • Check whether you have enough hard drive space to accommodate the download.
  • Ensure you are signed in to OneDrive and sync any pending files/folders.
  • Verify the OneDrive server status for downtime.
  • Close OneDrive from the taskbar and relaunch it.
  • Restart your PC to clear out any temporary files.

1. Disable OneDrive

  1. Launch the OneDrive icon by clicking on the system tray.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Click on the Account tab, then select Unlink this PC.
  4. Confirm by clicking Unlink account in the dialog box that pops up.unlink account

2. Reset OneDrive

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Apps on the left pane then Apps & features on the right pane.
  3. Locate the OneDrive app, click on the three vertical ellipses and select Advanced options.
  4. Click on Reset.
  5. Conversely, you can select the three ellipses at the top of the OneDrive app to bring down the menu.
  6. Click Settings.
  7. You can reset the app by clicking Reset the app at the bottom of the settings menu.

3. Create a network hub for the file

  1. Open OneDrive, locate the file you want to download and copy its location.
  2. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
  3. Navigate to Network on the left pane and click on Map network drive.
  4. Select Connect to a Web site that you can use to store your documents and pictures in the dialog box that appears and click Next.
  5. In the Specify the location of your website dialog, paste the location copied in 1 and click Next.
  6. Select a name for the new location.
  7. Hit the Windows key, type Powershell in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.
  8. Type and Enter the following command: {$_.FullName Get-Content -Path $_.FullName -first 1 | Out-Null}

4. Uninstall and reinstall OneDrive

  1. Hit the Windows key and click on Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Apps on the left pane then Apps & features on the right pane.
  3. Locate the OneDrive app, click on the three vertical ellipses and select Uninstall.
  4. Now launch the Microsoft Store by clicking its icon in the taskbar.
  5. Search for OneDrive.
  6. Click on the Get button to install OneDrive.

And that’s how to fix the 0x800701AA. A section of those who use Apple services on Windows also complained of the iCloud error 0x800701AA. If so, you can use the same steps to resolve it.

Elsewhere, users also complained that at times, they encountered an error where they couldn’t access OneDrive. If you experience something similar, don’t hesitate to check out our helpful guide on the same.

Another annoying habit is that you may find that OneDrive is constantly syncing so be sure to refer to our article on how to solve this issue.

Share with us in the comment section below any other solution not mentioned here that was able to help you resolve this error.

Ethernet Keeps Disconnecting Randomly [SOLVED]

Ethernet cable connections are supposed to be more stable; however, some users have said on forums that their Ethernet connections keep disconnecting.

If you have many devices using a large bandwidth simultaneously, your overall performance may suffer and disconnect from the Ethernet.

The likelihood of this occurring increases when you live with a large group. Wireless devices can potentially become disconnected from the Wi-Fi network due to overload.

How do I stop Ethernet from disconnecting?

1. Run the Network adapter troubleshooter

  1. 1. Press the Start button and input the keyword troubleshoot within the search text box.

  2. 2. Next, click on Troubleshoot settings to open that tab within Settings.

    click on troubleshoot settings
  3. 3. Next, click on Additional troubleshooters to open the troubleshooter list in Settings.

    click on additional troubleshooters
  4. 4. Select Network Adapter in Settings, and press the Run the troubleshooter button.

    click to run the troubleshooter
  5. 5. Select the Ethernet option in the Network Adapter troubleshooter, and click Next to go through any suggested resolutions.

  6. If your Ethernet keeps disconnecting, you have a built-in troubleshooter on your PC that you can use to fix the problem.

    Windows has a Network Adapter troubleshooter that will scan your device for issues and recommend solutions to your specific problem within seconds.

2. Update your Ethernet adapter driver

You might need to fix an outdated or faulty Ethernet driver to resolve the Ethernet cable that keeps disconnecting Windows 10 or Windows 11 issue. You can quickly and easily update drivers with driver updater software.

A driver updater utility will scan your PC and list devices you need to update drivers for. Fortect Driver Updater is excellent for this, plus, this tool will also help you keep your drivers up to date by regularly scanning and informing you of their status.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

3. Adjust the power management setting for your Ethernet adapter

  1. First, launch the Run accessory, which you can do by pressing Windows and R keyboard keys simultaneously.
  2. Type in this command and click OK: devmgmt.msc
  3. Next, double-click the Network adapters category in Device Manager to expand it.
  4. Right-click your Ethernet adapter listed there to select its Properties option.
  5. Then you’ll need to select the Power Management tab and deselect the Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power checkbox.
  6. Click the OK option to save your new setting. Unfortunately, the Ethernet keeps disconnecting, but the Wi-Fi works issue will be fixed.

In the case of some users, they are not able to find the Ethernet adapter in the Device Manager window. If that is the case for you, please read through our guide on the topic.

4. Make sure Ethernet is enabled

  1. Open the search tool by pressing Windows, then type the keyword network into the search tool’s text box. Finally, click View network connections to open it.
  2. Right-click your listed Ethernet connection there to open its context menu.
  3. Then select the Enable option if Ethernet is disabled.

5. Try a different Ethernet cable

If the Ethernet keeps disconnecting on Windows 10, check the condition of your Ethernet cable. If it’s not in OK shape, consider replacing your Ethernet cable with a new one.

In addition, try connecting your Ethernet cable to different ports on your router and check if that helps.

6. Disable the Windows firewall

  1. Press the Windows keyboard key and S simultaneously to open the search utility.
  2. Input firewall in the search box to find Windows Defender Firewall. Then, click the Windows Defender Firewall applet in the search results.
  3. Then click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off on the left of the open applet.
  4. Select both the Turn off Windows Defender Firewall options within Customize Settings.
  5. Click OK to confirm the new settings.

If you also have a third-party antivirus utility installed, disable that software for at least a few hours.

You can usually disable a third-party antivirus utility by right-clicking its system tray icon and selecting a disable (turn off) shield setting of some description.

7. Don’t use a proxy server

  1. Open Windows 10’s a search box, and type the keyword Internet Options in the search tool’s text box. Next, click Internet Options to open the Internet Properties window.
  2. Select the Connections tab. Now click the LAN settings button.
  3. Then click the LAN settings button to open a Local Area Network (LAN) Settings window.
  4. Deselect the Use a proxy server checkbox if that option is selected.
    The Use a proxy server option windows 10 ethernet keeps disconnecting
  5. Click OK to exit the Local Area Network window.

8. Reset your network

  1. Open Settings with the Windows key + I hotkey, then click Network & Internet to open a Status tab in Settings.
  2. Then click the Network reset option.
  3. Press the Reset now button to confirm and restart your PC.

9. Disable VPN software

It’s also recommended that users disable any VPN software installed on their desktops or laptops. Our guide on how to turn off VPN provides further details on how you can disable a VPN connection permanently or temporarily.

If you have a VPN browser extension enabled, make sure you also disable it. You can do that by opening the extensions tab in your browser and toggling the VPN extension off there. Alternatively, you can altogether remove the extension.

What can I do if my Ethernet keeps disconnecting on Windows 11?

Resolving this issue is not very different from the resolutions presented in this guide. The steps are mostly the same, with very slight changes when it comes to the things you need to click on.

Can I use Ethernet and Wi-Fi at the same time?

Yes, a personal computer can use both Wi-Fi and Ethernet simultaneously, provided that the computer’s network settings are adjusted to give equal weight to each connection.

And that they are programmed not to disconnect from either connection when the other reference is made. For more information, check out our post on how to combine Internet connections on Windows 10.

So, various potential resolutions can help you fix if Ethernet keeps disconnecting on Windows 10.

Now that we know what variations this error has been presented in, we can discuss another important topic -where does this issue occur?

For more information on this topic and potential solutions, please look at our article on Ethernet not working in Windows 10/11 to learn what to do about it.

Also, find out what to do when you get the unidentified network error message from our dedicated article.

If none of the resolutions stabilize your Ethernet connection, consider contacting your ISP support line for further assistance.

Best USB C To Ethernet Adapter: Top Picks For 2026

If you’re looking to buy a new USB C to Ethernet adapter and you’re wondering which are the best deals available right now, then you’ve come to the right place.

We will tell you which products are in vogue right now and what they offer you. They are all available to buy on Amazon.

Without further ado, let’s find out together our top picks for the best USB C to Ethernet adapters at the moment!

What are the best USB C to Ethernet adapter deals?

USB-C to Ethernet Adapter

  • 1 Gbps high-speed Internet
  • LAN to USB-C adapter
  • LED link lights
  • Plug-and-Play simplicity
  • Weak magnetic strength

The Type-C to LAN Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) Network Adapter is the best adapter for streaming large videos, playing games online, or downloading your favorite stuff at maximum speeds without interruption.

Enjoy fast data transfers, and better security compared to most wireless connections.

It is a plug and play, so you don’t need any drivers or to install any – simply insert the cable and start using the adapter.


LENTION USB-C

  • LED Indicator
  • Plug and Play
  • Build-in drivers auto installation for Mac, Windows 10/8.1/8, Chrome, and Linux OS
  • USBC and Thunderbolt 3 compatible
  • Few problems with the download speed

The LENTION LAN Adapter offers up to 1000 Mbps gigabit ethernet connection. It is a great competitor on the list of the best USB C to Ethernet adapter.

Now you can enjoy faster HD video streaming, gaming, browsing, and storage over a secure connection compared to Wi-Fi alternatives, and it automatically connects and detects the speed and works accordingly.

It is also good to look at what with its sleek aluminum metal finish, plus there’s no need for driver installation as it is a plug and play adapter.



CableCreation

  • Stable wired network connection
  • Wide compatible
  • Plug & Play
  • Speeds up to 1000 Mbps
  • Needs to be firmly inserted

CableCreation’s USB-C Gigabit Ethernet adapter is designed with a Gigabit Ethernet port so you can access superfast network speeds.

It is easy to use, supports plug and play meaning no installation software is required, plus it has an LED status light so you know whether it’s working properly or not.

Enjoy fast data transfers, better security, and the manufacturer’s promise of a top quality cables, and a lifetime warranty on the adapter.


Cable Matters

  • USBC HUB with HDMI adds Gigabit Ethernet
  • HDMI or VGA video port
  • macOS requires a driver download for the Mini USB-C Dock Ethernet function
  • Supports 4K UHD (3840x2160 @ 30Hz) over HDMI and Gigabit Ethernet network connectivity for a Wi-Fi alternative
  • HDMI and VGA have to be used one at a time

This is the best USB-C Gigabit Ethernet adapter when you need multiple ports as it comes with USB 3.0 ports plus HDMI/VGA video ports that support 4K UHD over HDMI, with a single USB-C connection.

The USB type C cable is a reversible, user-friendly connector, so you can use it from whichever end you want.

However, with this adapter, you may need an updated BIOS or firmware drivers from the manufacturer.


What is Gigabit Ethernet?

Gigabit Ethernet translates to high speeds with a maximum data rate of about 1Gbps (or gigabit per second, an equivalent of 1000Mbps).

In today’s digital world, Gigabit Ethernet has been made possible thanks to different technologies that support effective and fast data transfer via cable.

If you want to know whether your computer or device supports Gigabit Ethernet, it may not show at face value by looking at it physically.

Still, the cables usually have the information based on the standards they support. This can let you verify whether it can operate at gigabit speeds or not.

For most modern computers, connecting to such high speed networks requires using the best USB-C to Ethernet adapter.

These devices also come with USB type C connector or port. This is reversible, user friendly, and lets you connect to your device from whichever direction.

What is a Gigabit Ethernet adapter?

A Gigabit Ethernet adapter is a small but compact gadget that connects from the USB port on your computer with an RJ-45 port that supports the 10/100/1000Base-T networks.

If your internet connection speed exceeds the 100Base-T, you may not be able to enjoy the high performance connection immediately. Still, it will be useful for future purposes.

USB-C Gigabit Ethernet adapters harness the Ethernet where there is inconsistent, non-existent or over extended wireless connectivity.

So, you can connect seamlessly, and enjoy fast, uninterrupted, and reliable speeds.

Have you found the best USB-C Gigabit Ethernet adapter for yourself among these six?

Let us know your choice, or if you know a good USB C to Ethernet adapter that deserves to be on this list, share with us in the comments section below.

Windows 10 Error Code 0x80072efd: What It Means & How To Fix

Are you one of the users getting error code 0x80072efd in Windows 10 while trying to update your device to the latest build?

It seems that many Windows 10 users cannot connect to the Windows update servers, Cortana, and also Internet Explorer.

When they try to update the operating system, they get the error above.

Before you try to install the latest Windows 10 version on your device, you need to install the latest Windows updates and Optional Updates.

Also, you can run the Windows Update Troubleshooter which will find and fix any issues regarding the Windows 10 operating system.

What does 0x80072EFD mean? 

In most cases, this error means that you have an Internet connection issue when trying to update Windows because of the firewall protection that blocks the server connection.

As well, you can meet another issue such as The error code is 0x80072efd, in case you need it. This error message occurs on the Microsoft Store app due to Internet network connections.

How do I fix error code 0x80072EFD in Windows 10?

1. Update Windows 10

  1. Go to Start > Navigate to Settings > Click on Update & Security
  2. Click on the Windows update button
  3. Now click on the Check for Updates optionupdate windows 10
  4. Wait for the scanning process to finish
  5. After the scan is completed and the updates have been installed, return to Windows Update
  6. This time, go to the Advanced option and check Give me updates for other Microsoft products when I update Windowsinstall optional updates windows 10
  7. When you finished the installation process, reboot Windows 10 computer
  8. After the device starts, check again if you still get the error code 0x80072efd.

2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > navigate to Troubleshoot
  2. Select the Windows Update troubleshooter > run ittroubleshoot windows update
  3. Follow the instructions on the screen and finish the troubleshooting processwindows update troubleshooting
  4. Restart your Windows 10 computer
  5. Check again if you still get error 0x80072efd.

3. Clean boot Windows 10

  1. Go to Start > in the search dialog box enter msconfig without the quotes
  2. Press the Enter button on the keyboard
  3. Click or tap on the msconfig icon > the System Configuration Window should be visible
  4. Click on the Services tab
  5. Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft Services.
  6. Click on the Disable all button.clean boot windows 10
  7. Now click on the Startup tab located on the upper side of the window.
  8. Select Open task Manager
  9. In the Task Manager window go to the Startup tab.
  10. Left-click or tap on each item on the list > select Disabledisable startup programs
  11. Close the Task Manager window > click OK
  12. Reboot your Windows 10 machine.
  13. Check if you can install the updates without getting error 0x80072efd.

4. Disable your antivirus/ firewall

If you keep getting this error, this can indicate that your firewall, antivirus or anti-spyware software is preventing Windows Update Services (SVCHOST) from accessing the Internet.

In this case, temporarily disable your security tools (yes, all of them) and try to install the latest updates.

disable windows defender


If this method works, don’t forget to enable antivirus protection as soon as you finished updating your computer.

5. Check the Date & Time

Make sure that your Windows Time service configuration is correct. If this service isn’t properly configured, you may experience various issues, including update errors.

  1. Go to Start > type Services > Choose Services from the results.
  2. On the Services window, locate Windows Time service and double click it.windows 10 date time
  3. Check the Startup type section and set it to Automatic.check windows 10 date time
  4. Now, restart the service by clicking Stop and then click Start again. If the service isn’t running, click the Start button to start it.start windows time
  5. Click Apply and OK.

6. Disable Proxy

  1. Go to Start > type inetcpl.cpldisable proxy
  2. Go to Connection > select LAN Settings.lan settings windows 10
  3. Check the box ‘Automatically detect settings’
  4. Under Proxy server, uncheck the box ‘Use a proxy server for your LAN’.
turn off proxy

7. Reset Windows Update components

Before you reset Windows Update, don’t forget to back up your Registry. In case anything goes wrong, you will be able to restore a working Windows version.

  1. Go to Start > launch Command Prompt as administrator
  2. Type the following commands and hit Enter after each one:reset windows update components
    • net stop bits
    • net stop wuauserv
    • net stop appidsvc
    • net stop cryptsvc

8. Rename the Software Distribution folder

Renaming the Software Distribution folder may help you fix error 0x80072efd.

To do this, launch Command Prompt as administrator once again and run the following commands one at a time hitting Enter after each one:

  • net stop wuauserv
  • net stop bits
  • Ren %systemroot%SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.bak
    Ren %systemroot%system32catroot2 catroot2.bak
  • net stop wuauserv
  • net stop bits

9. Delete the content inside the Software Distribution folder

If renaming the Software Distribution folder didn’t help, try deleting all the files and folders from the respective folder.

To do this, go to C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution and open the folder. Simply delete the content available inside that folder.

delete software distribution folder


If your system’s Datastore and Download folder are no longer synced, this may cause Windows Update to fail to work correctly.

As a result, you will encounter various issues, errors included, when checking for updates or installing them.

The files and folders that you deleted will get automatically downloaded again when you reboot your computer.

However, keep in mind that you will lose your Windows Update History and Windows will take longer to detect updates the next time you run Windows Update.

Error code 0x80072efd Windows 11

If you encounter this update error on your Windows 11 OS, the reliable workaround to fix it is with Windows Update troubleshooter. Follow the next steps to apply it:

  1. Type Troubleshoot settings in the search bar.
  2. Go for Other troubleshooters.
    other trouble windows 11 file explorer search not working
  3. Find Windows Update troubleshooter and click Run.
    windows-update-run-troubleshooter runtimebroker.exe error
  4. Wait for the process to find your issue.
  5. Accept the suggested repair, if you have it.

And there you have it, these methods will help you get rid of error code 0x80072efd in Windows 10 so that you can update the OS.

That being said, for any other issues, you can read our expert guides on how to fix Windows Update errors.

Our Windows 10 errors hub is just a click away so if you have any other such errors bookmark our page. 

If you have any questions regarding this subject, drop us a line in the comments below and we will help you further as soon as possible.

Formula Omits Adjacent Cells Error in Excel: How to Fix It

If you get an Excel error message saying that your formula omits adjacent cells when you try to enter it, your Excel spreadsheet has probably been modified.

This could mean that the cell has no data, no longer exists, the range has been changed, or there are blank cells in between each cell that you want to include in your formula.

Find tested fixes below:

What can I do if the Excel error formula omits adjacent cells?

1. Uncheck formulas that omit cells

  1. Launch your Excel sheet and then click on File.
  2. Navigate to Options and then select Formulas.
  3. Look for Error checking rules and uncheck Formulas which omit cells in a region.
  4. Click OK.

2. Switch from absolute to relative reference

  1. Open the Excel sheet and select the cell that contains the formula.
  2. Navigate to the formula bar at the top and press F4 until you get the relative reference option.

Absolute and relative references in Excel formulas are two ways to refer to cells in your spreadsheet. They both have their purpose, and sometimes you may find yourself using them interchangeably.

Absolute cell references are the default in Excel. However, there are times when using an absolute reference is not the best option. This type of notation is not always intuitive because it does not take into account the position of the cell that contains the formula.

3. Update the formula to include the cells

When you update the formula to include the cells that you want to reference, Excel can properly evaluate it and display its result properly.

The caveat to this method is that if you have a very large spreadsheet with many formulas, then it can be difficult to track down which cell is causing the problem.

If nothing seems to work, you can opt to ignore the error or seek help from the help task pane in Excel. The built-in tool diagnoses some problems and may be able to recommend a solution.

Excel errors are in no shortage as you can expect to encounter a few hiccups when you’re working with sheets and formulas. We have crafted a dedicated article to help you in case you want to recover a corrupted Excel file so that you don’t have to lose all your work.

In other instances, you may be unable to type in Excel, but we know what you can do to keep things moving as you shall see in our expert guide. To learn more about Excel, don’t miss our guide on how to add a new line in cell in Excel.

Let us know of any other tricks you used if you were in a similar predicament in the comment section below.

Recovery Drive Full: 3 Ways to Free up Space on it

Users have reported encountering the error message Recovery drive is full on Windows 10. This should not be confused with the low disk space message.

The first error code deals with the specific Recovery drive, and the second message relates to the general space availability on your PC’s hard drive.

The Recovery drive is a separate partition stored on your PC that contains all the files needed for you to be able to fully restore your PC if your system becomes unstable for some reason.

This article will explore the best methods to deal with this issue. Please follow these steps closely to avoid causing any other problems to your system.

Why is my Recovery D drive so full?

Users have reported a few elements that contribute to this problem, some of them include:

  • Writing data – When users continually write data to this drive, it will eventually be filled up, which is the leading cause of the issue. Only data connected with system recovery should be saved to this drive.
  • Malware – If the Recovery drive is full, but no files are written on it, you may suspect malware on the computer. We always recommend using the best antivirus systems.

Whichever the case is, you should try the solutions that we suggest below. This problem cuts across different brands as users have experienced Recovery drive full on HP, Dell, ASUS, etc.

What can I do if my Recovery drive is full?

1. Manually move files from the Recovery drive

  1. Press the Win + I keys on your keyboard and select System.
    recovery drive full
  2. Scroll down and select System info.System info - recovery drive is full
  3. Select System protection from the menu on the left side.System protection - recovery drive is full
  4. Choose the specific Recovery drive inside the System protection window, then Configure.
  5. Select Disable system protection and click Ok.
  6. Press Windows + E, click the View tab and select the Hidden files checkbox.
  7. Double-click your Recovery drive to open it, select the files you want to move, and copy them to another drive with free space.
  8. Delete all the other options by using the key combination Shift + Delete.
  9. This should have fixed your low disk space issue for your Recovery drive.

Note: Make sure not to delete files associated with system recovery. These include: $RECYCLE.BIN, boot, hp, EFI, Factory Update, preload, Recovery, RM_Reserve, system.sav, bootmgr, RMCStatus.bin, BT_HP.FLG, CSP.DAT, DeployRp, HP_WSD.dat, HPSF_Rep, language, or RPCONFIG.

2. Run Disk Cleanup

  1. Press the Win + R keys on your keyboard, type cleanmgr, and hit Enter.
    recovery drive full
  2. Select the Recovery partition and click Ok (for this example, we’ll use the C: partition).
    recovery drive full
  3. Wait for Windows to calculate the amount of space you will be able to free up.disk cleanup loading - recovery drive is full
  4. Select the files you want to delete by clicking the respective boxes, then press OK and wait for the process to be completed.

3. Run a full scan

  1. Type Windows Security in the Search bar, and click on the relevant search result.
  2. Now, click on Virus & threat protection here.
  3. Click on Scan options.
  4. Now, select Full scan and click on the Scan now button at the bottom.

The first two solutions cover all possibilities, but there is also a third scenario that you might encounter and we dare say it’s even more frustrating. It happens when the Recovery drive is said to be full, but you cannot find any files to delete or remove.

Checking for malware becomes a viable alternative.

In this article, we explored some quick methods to ensure you’ll never get the Recovery drive is full error ever again.

Follow the steps presented in this article closely to avoid deleting any useful backup files from your Recovery drive.

We would love to know if this guide helped you solve your issue. Please feel free to let us know by using the comment section found below.

How to Fix Group Policy Error in Windows 10 With 6 Methods

The Group Policy is integral to Windows 10 as it is in charge of many advanced settings and is used to fix several issues. However, some users are complaining of an error on the feature, which can be pretty concerning.

Though there are different causes for this, it is not as complicated as it seems. This guide will show you how to fix the Group Policy error and help you regain control of the critical feature.

What causes Group Policy errors in Windows 10?

Below are some of the causes of the Group Policy error:

  • Corrupt system files: Corrupt system files are one of the leading causes of the processing of group policy failure. Windows attempted to retrieve the new group policy settings error message. You need to fix the corrupt system files using a dedicated tool or the built-in file fixers.
  • Faulty registry files: According to some users, issues with the registry.pol and secedit.sdb files can cause this error too. The solution to this is to delete or move these two files.
  • Issues with the OS: In some cases, it might be hard to trace the cause of this problem. You can only assume that your OS is faulty. To get past this, you need to perform a system restore.

How can I fix the Group Policy error in Windows 10?

1. Delete or move the registry.pol file

  1. Open File Explorer and paste the path below in the address bar: C:\Windows\System32\GroupPolicy\Machine\
  2. 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.
    Registry.pol not updating

After moving or deleting this file, you’ll need to run one command in Command Prompt to recreate this file and restore the original group policy values. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows key + S, type cmd, and select the Run as administrator option under Command Prompt.
    cmd how to fix group policy error in windows 10
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter to run it: gpupdate /forcegpupdate how to fix group policy error in windows 10
  3. Finally, restart your PC.

Once your PC restarts, the registry. The pol file will be recreated, which should fix the Group Policy error in Windows 10. Many users reported that this solution fixed their problem with corrupted local group policy, so try it out.

2. Move or delete secedit.sdb file

  1. Launch File Explorer and navigate to the path below: C:\WINDOWS\security\Database
  2. Locate secedit.sdb file, and move it to your Desktop.
    Group Policy folder missing from system32
  3. Now, restart your PC.

Another fix for the Group Policy error on Windows 10 local group policy is to move or delete the secedit.sdb file. Deleting this file will reset your group policy settings to the default.

3. Use Command Prompt

  1. Launch Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the commands below and press Enter after each: RD /S /Q %WinDir%\System32\GroupPolicyUsersrd user how to fix group policy error in windows 10 RD /S /Q %WinDir%\System32\GroupPolicyrd system gpupdate /forcegpupdate how to fix group policy error in windows 10

If you’re facing the Group Policy error on Windows 10, you might be able to fix the problem simply by using Command Prompt. The commands above will help you reset the Group Policy.

4. Perform DISM and SFC scans

  1. Start Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type the command below and hit Enter to run it: sfc /scannowsfc scan
  3. Wait for the SFC scan to finish running. Then, if it fails or the problem persists, type the command below and hit Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthdism restore how to fix group policy error in windows 10

DISM scan will now start. The scan takes about 20 minutes, so don’t interfere with it.

As mentioned earlier, corrupt system files can cause this issue. However, running the commands below will help you fix the files causing the Group Policy error in Windows 10.

Alternatively, you can use a third-party system file fixer to repair the broken system file. These tools are pretty fast and require no command to get going.

With just a few clicks, they will fix your files and restore normalcy on your PC.

5. Restart the Group Policy client

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type services.msc, and click OK.
    services
  2. Double-click the Group Policy Client to open its properties.
    option how to fix group policy error in windows 10
  3. Now, set its Startup type to Automatic and click on the Start button.
  4. Click the Apply button and OK to save changes.
    automatic
  5. Finally, launch Command Prompt as admin, type the command below, and hit Enter: netsh winsock resetwinsock

Sometimes, all you need to fix the Group Policy error on Windows 10 is to restart the necessary services. The steps should help you take care of this quickly.

6. Perform a System Restore

  1. Press the Windows key + S, type system restore, and select Create a restore point.
    type
  2. Click the System Restore button.
    Registry.pol not updating
  3. Now, click Next to proceed.
    Group Policy folder missing from system32
  4. Check Show more restore points option, if available. Select the desired restore point and click Next.
    Registry.pol not updating
  5. Follow the instructions on the screen to finish the process.

If the Group Policy error on Windows 10 persists, you might be able to fix the issue simply by performing a System Restore. This feature will help your return your PC to an earlier date when everything is working well.

The Group Policy error on Windows 10 can cause many issues, but we hope you solve them using one of our solutions. However, if you still cannot get the feature to work well, you might need to take a risk and perform a clean install or an in-place upgrade.

Similarly, if the Group Policy is not applying your changes, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.

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

The Windows 8.1 and 7 December 2022 Patch Tuesday updates are live

We are well aware that the main focus right now is on Windows 11 and Windows 10, but we never allow ourselves to miss an occasion to revisit the older versions of the Windows OS.

That being said, be sure to check out the latest versions of Windows 10, which is 22H2, and also Windows 11, which has also reached version 22H2.

And, as you surely know by now, the Redmond-based tech colossus also releases security updates for some of the obsolete operating systems, during Patch Tuesday.

That means that not only Windows 10 and 11 users will receive updates during this time. We’re also looking at Windows 7, Windows 8, and various Server versions as well.

We’ve already presented the 52 new updates that became available, along with the official download links, so all that remains is going a bit more in-depth.

Without any further ado, let’s take a closer look at what Windows 7 and Windows 8 users were given to work with on the December 2022 Patch Tuesday.

What should I know about the December 2022 Patch Tuesday?

The Redmond-based tech colossus has just released Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 8.1, in the form of KB5021294, and Windows 7, in the form of KB5021291.

Keep in mind that they each come with a whole host of improvements and known issues with some pretty neat workarounds.

All official support for Windows 8.1 will end in January, so Microsoft keeps urging users to upgrade to a later edition of the Windows OS.

And, the Patch Tuesday update for Windows 7 requires you to have purchased the Extended Security Update (ESU) support.

Windows 7

KB5021291

  • By order of the Fijian government, Fiji will not observe daylight saving time (DST) in 2022. Therefore, clocks do not change by an hour at 02:00 on November 13, 2022.
  • A memory leak in the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS.exe) occurs on Windows domain controllers. This issue is known to occur after installing Windows updates dated November 8, 2022, or later.

Known issues

  • After installing this update and restarting your device, you might receive the error, “Failure to configure Windows updates. Reverting Changes. Do not turn off your computer”, and the update might show as Failed in Update History.
  • After this update or a later Windows update is installed, domain join operations might be unsuccessful and error “0xaac (2732): NERR_AccountReuseBlockedByPolicy” occurs. Additionally, text stating “An account with the same name exists in Active Directory. Re-using the account was blocked by security policy” might be displayed.
  • After installing this update, apps which use ODBC connections through Microsoft ODBC SQL Server Driver (sqlsrv32.dll) to access databases might not connect. Additionally, you might receive an error in the app, or you might receive an error from the SQL Server.

Windows 8.1

KB5021294

  • By order of the Fijian government, Fiji will not observe daylight saving time (DST) in 2022. Therefore, clocks do not change by an hour at 02:00 on November 13, 2022.
  • A memory leak in the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS.exe) occurs on Windows domain controllers. This issue is known to occur after installing Windows updates dated November 8, 2022, or later.

Known issues

  • After this update or a later Windows update is installed, domain join operations might be unsuccessful and error “0xaac (2732): NERR_AccountReuseBlockedByPolicy” occurs. Additionally, text stating “An account with the same name exists in Active Directory. Re-using the account was blocked by security policy” might be displayed.
  • After installing this update, apps which use ODBC connections through Microsoft ODBC SQL Server Driver (sqlsrv32.dll) to access databases might not connect. Additionally, you might receive an error in the app, or you might receive an error from the SQL Server.

If you are still using Windows 8.1 as an operating system, remember what we said not very long ago about the impending change.

To be more specific, Microsoft said that it was going to pester users with notifications until they upgrade to a supported version of the OS.

And, since the time has come to say goodbye, it is recommended that you figure out the next steps you will need to take.

Have you encountered any issues after downloading and installing these new security updates for Windows 7 and 8.1?

Share your experience with us in the dedicated comments section located below.

Unlock your iPhone Quickly with FoneGeek iPhone Passcode Unlocker App

Yes, you have forgotten your iPhone passcode and it’s pretty frustrating, but the FoneGeek iPhone Passcode Unlocker tool will unlock it quickly.

In fact, it can remove various iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch locks to help you regain control over your device.

What is iPhone Passcode Unlocker and how can it help?

iPhone Passcode Unlocker, developed by FoneGeek, is a dedicated Windows software that can unlock your iPhone or any other iOS device.

It can remove 4-digit or 6-digit passcodes, Face ID, Touch ID in just 3 easy steps. It also helps you remove the Apple ID from iPhone/iPad without a password.

The tool fixes disabled iPhone/iPad/iPod touch devices without the need for iTunes or iCloud.

Don’t worry about anything because it works well with iOS 16/iPadOS 16, iPhone 14/13/12, and a lot more.

How do I unlock the Apple ID on my iPhone?

  1. Go to the official FoneGeek download page and hit the Free Trial button to download iPhone Passcode Unlocker.
  2. After you download the tool, launch it and click the Install button.
  3. Hit the Start Now button after the installation.
  4. Now, select Unlock Apple ID.
  5. Next, you need to connect your device to the computer using the cable supplied with it.
  6. If you chose the first option, insert the screen password, and tap on Trust on your mobile device if it’s the first time you connect it.
  7. Lastly, select Start Unlock to remove the Apple ID from your device.
  8. If the Find My iPhone feature is disabled, you will receive the message that Apple ID was successfully removed.
  9. However, if you activated Find My iPhone, iPhone Passcode Unlocker won’t be able to help you.

How do I unlock the screen password on my iPhone?

Note icon NOTE
This procedure will erase all the data from your iOS device and the iOS version will be upgraded to the latest one. Also, make sure that your device has enough power.
  1. Start iPhone Passcode Unlocker and click on Unlock Screen Passcode.
  2. Make sure that your iOS device is connected to your computer and click the Start button.
  3. You will receive instructions on how to set your device in DFU mode. On iPhone 8 or later, the sequence is to press the Volume up, then Volume down, and lastly the Power button until the screen goes black.
  4. Then, press the Power and Volume down buttons for 5 seconds, release the Volume down button and keep the Power button pressed for another 10 seconds.
  5. Once your device is in Recovery or DFU mode, the tool will identify the device model and all available system versions. Choose your preferred version and click Download to get the firmware package.
  6. Now, all you need to do is to click the Start Unlock button.
  7. Lastly, you will receive a message that your device has been unlocked and it will restart. You will start fresh with your mobile device.

As you probably noticed, we outlined the recovery process for iPhone 8 and later devices but iPhone Passcode Unlocker also works for iPhone 7 and other iOS devices.

Also, this method also works if you want to solve problems like fixing disabled iPhone/iPad/iPod touch devices or removing Face ID and Touch ID.

iPhone Passcode Unlocker is incredibly easy to use by anyone because all the instructions are readily supplied.

How much do I pay for iPhone Passcode Unlocker?

The tool is one of the cheapest software for this purpose on the market. You only need to pay $23.95 to unlock up to 5 devices for one month.

You may also opt for a yearly plan of $33.95 to unlock up to 5 devices from one PC and a lifetime license is only $45.95.

However, if you hurry up, you can benefit from a 10% OFF Code: RFPAIR10 and get it even cheaper.

So, whether you need to fix a one-time problem or ensure that you never have problems with your iOS devices, the FoneGeek tool has got you covered.

⇒ Get FoneGeek iPhone Passcode Unlocker

That’s it! We hope that our guide helped you unlock your iPhone or any of your iOS devices with just a few clicks.

We also have a helpful guide that will help you if iTunes is not detecting your iPhone in Windows 10 & 11.

Have you tried iPhone Passcode Unlocker yet? Then tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

UNetbootin Windows Failed to Start: How to Fix + Video

UNetbootin is a popular Windows utility to create bootable USB flash drives for Ubuntu and other Linux distributions. At times UNnetbootin is not working on Windows 10, and this is usually followed by the Failed to start error.

The full error reads Windows failed to start A recent hardware or software change might be the cause. This error is usually triggered if the Live USB was not created properly, and in this guide, we’ll show you how to fix this issue.

How do I fix UNetbootin error?

1. Change BIOS Setup

    The reliable workaround for the UNetbootin Windows failed to start error is to modify your BIOS setup as shown below.

  1. 1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.

  2. 2. Go to Update & Security.

     

    unetbootin-not-working
  3. 3. Open the Recovery tab from the left pane.

    Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause
  4. 4. Scroll down to Advanced startup and click the Restart Now button.

     

  5. 5. After the Restart, select the Troubleshoot option.

    Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause
  6. 7. Under Advanced options, choose UEFI firmware settings.

    unetbootin-not-working
  7. 8. Confirm the restart. This will allow you to enter BIOS on your Windows 10 PC.

  8. 9. After entering the BIOS, open the Boot tab.

  9. 10. Set UEFI/BIOS Boot Mode to Legacy.

  10. 11. Save the changes and exit BIOS.

Restart your PC and try to boot with the live USB. Check if the UNetbootin not working in Windows 10 error is resolved.

2. Disable Secure Boot 

  1. Power off your PC. Restart and then start pressing F2 to access the BIOS.
  2. In the BIOS, open the Security tab.
  3. Highlight and choose Default Secure boot on and set it as Disabled.
  4. Save the changes and exit BIOS.
  5. Reboot the computer with live USB connected and check if the failed to start UNetbootin error is resolved.

If the error persists, disable Fast startup in Windows 10. Fast Startup is a feature designed to reduce boot time. However, it prevents the computer from completely shutting down, which can lead to compatibility issues.

3. Disable Fast Startup

  1. Press the Windows key and type cmd.
  2. Now select Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and hit Enter:
    Powercfg -h off
  4. This will turn off Fast Startup. Reboot the computer and check for any improvements.

4. Create a new Live USB 

One of the common reasons for Windows failing to start – A recent hardware or software change might be the cause is a corrupted Live USB drive created using UNetbootin.

To make sure the Live USB was created properly, create a new bootable drive using the existing ISO file. This would eliminate any chances of error that may have triggered due to missing or corrupt files in the drive.

5. Check ISO files for error

If the UNetbootin is still not working after creating a new live USB, check your ISO image for errors. Incomplete download or corrupted files may cause the installation to file.

Download the latest version of the ISO image available from the official source. Then create a new bootable drive and check for any improvements.

Alternatively, try using boot repair software. If you are experiencing an error on an existing installation, boot repair tools can fix computer booting issues and repair corrupted files.

6. Create bootable drive with Rufus 

  1. Download Rufus from the official website.
  2. Make sure you have the latest ISO installed, and the USB is connected to your PC.
  3. Launch the Rufus application.
  4. Select your flash drive under the device.
  5. Next, choose your ISO, partition scheme, and target system as BIOS or UEFI.
  6. Choose the Format option and leave the other options as default.
  7. Click Start to create a bootable drive.

Rufus is a popular utility to create bootable USB flash drives. If UNetbootin is not working, Rufus is an excellent alternative with a uncomplicated interface.

7. Fix Windows bootloader using Windows 10 USB

  1. Make sure you have the Windows 10 installation media-ready. If not, create a Windows 10 bootable flash drive and then proceed.
  2. Boot from the media.
  3. Choose Repair Your Computer.
  4. Choose the Troubleshoot option.
    Unetbooting not working Windows 10
  5. Next, select Advanced Option and choose Command Prompt.
  6. In the Command Prompt, type the following command one by one and hit enter:
    diskpart
    sel disk 0
    list vol
  7. Make sure the EFI System Partition is using the FAT32 file system.
  8. Run the following command to assign a drive letter to the partition that is not in use.
    sel vol <number of volume>
    assign letter <drive letter>:
    Exit
  9. To repair the boot record, run the following command:
    Cd /d <drive letter>: \EFI\Microsoft\Boot\
    Bootrec /fixBoot
  10. Wait for the command to find and fix issues with the bootloader. Restart the PC once the repair is complete.

The UNetbootin not working in Windows 10 Failed to start error is triggered due to faulty bootable drive or corrupted ISO image. Try changing the BIOS setup to fix the error. If not, use an alternative flash drive creator utility like Rufus.

Did you find a solution to this problem on your own? Don’t be shy and share it with us in the comments section.