Gaming Headphones are Also on Sale During Cyber Monday

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

Quality gaming is all about how much you can immerse yourself in the world where you are currently on an adventure. And what better way to completely be overwhelmed by your environment than hear every little noise?

This being said, if you were in the market for a new pair of gaming headphones, you might be able to reward yourself earlier than you thought.

? Logitech, HyperX, and Razer headphones are on sale!

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What headphones should I buy for gaming?

When you talk gaming headphones, one of the brands that are an all-time favorite among the community is, of course, Razer.

Owning a pair of Kraken Tournament headphones shouldn’t be if an earlier, equally tempting opportunity arises, especially if you can save up.

Razer has early deals on some of its products so it’s definitely something you will want to keep an eye out for.

Razer Kraken Tournament Edition (Wired)

THX Spatial Audio breaks the boundaries of defined 5.1 and 7.1 channel surround to deliver seamless 360° positional audio for a more natural and lifelike experience.
Check Price

The solid, durable aluminum frame is built to withstand the blows of daily use. With that being said, it doesn’t mean you should throw them around just because one of your teammates threw the game.

The microphone it has is detachable, noise-canceling, and also TeamSpeak and Discord certified, so you can chat with your friends and your callouts will be heard loud and clear

HyperX Cloud II

Exceptionally comfortable memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband help keep you focused on gaming
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There are so many companies that make these gadgets right now that all you need to do is imagine a pair of headphones and, if you Google it, you surely already find a pair just like that one.

However, some brands stand out when it comes to these devices. So, if you’re more of a Logitech fan, here’s an early deal that will most likely interest you.

The G733 Lightspeed wireless headset is light, looks really good, and offers a sound experience that will one hundred percent make every gaming moment memorable.

Logitech G733 Lightspeed

Total freedom with up to 20-meter wireless range and Lightspeed wireless audio transmission.
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The JBL Quantum 400 gaming headset incorporates a flip-up boom microphone with echo-canceling technology, allowing users to focus on their teammates’ voices rather than background noise.

Another great feature that differentiates these headphones from the others is the integrated Discord-certified game-chat balance.

If you fancy longer stretches of gameplay, know that the memory foam ear cushions on the JBL Quantum 400 headset are covered in soft PU leather, providing comfort for marathon sessions.

JBL Quantum 400

Features JBL Quantum Surround sound technology which is engineered for accuracy and delivers immersive gaming audio for a competitive edge.
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A fan of the HyperX brand? You don’t have to worry, because such headphones are also a part of this early discount wave.

This lightweight headset, with 90-degree rotating ear cups, provides a snug fit and high audio fidelity, which is really all you need in order to enjoy yourself.

HyperX Cloud Stinger

HyperX shape and signature memory foam provide maximum comfort during extended use, so you can concentrate on winning.
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Let’s talk Triforce Titanium 50mm High-End Sound Drivers. Yes, these headphones are outfitted with cutting-edge, 50mm drivers divided into 3 parts for individual tuning of highs, mids, and lows.

The detachable Razer Hyperclear Cardioid Mic is tuned to have a more focused voice pickup area, and get the most out of the mic with advanced voice tweaking options via Razer Synapse 3.

And the best part is that you get to save on this headset, so pretty much a win-win situation.

Razer BlackShark V2

Provides industry-leading audio realism for in-game immersion by providing accurate spatial audio information beyond standard 7.1 surround sound directional cues.
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This is an upgraded version of the crowd-favorite PC37X, the latest collaboration with Sennheiser is more comfortable, more detailed, and more stunning than the original.

Featuring new drivers, the PC38X delivers higher fidelity and better frequency response, if that’s what you were looking for in a pair of gaming headphones.

The headband has been updated with a new, breathable mesh-knit pad, keeping you cooler and better support for long sessions.

Drop + Sennheiser PC38X Gaming Headset

Works great with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Sony PS4 & PS5 controllers with 3.5mm jack, as well as PC, Mac, and mobile/tablets with 3.5mm connection.
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Constructed for enduring comfort through long gaming sessions with breathable microfiber mesh fabric and plush memory foam earpads, these headphones are the choice of many gamers out there.

Communication is important during gaming, so an omnidirectional microphone picks up your voice with exceptional clarity, with a flip-up mute function and a built-in LED mute indicator is really all you need.

Corsair Void RGB Elite

Hear everything from the lightest footstep to the most. Thundering explosion thanks to the premium, custom-tuned 50-millimeter high-density neodymium Audio drivers.
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This Xbox One-designed headset has ongoing compatibility with Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, just in case you were wondering.

Turtle Beach’s renowned high-sensitivity mic picks up your voice loud and clear and can be removed when watching movies or listening to music.

Turtle Beach Recon 50 Xbox Gaming Headset

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Turtle Beach’s exclusive Superhuman Hearing sound setting lets you hear subtle, game-changing sounds so you can live up to 20% longer and win more.

Optimized to deliver immersive surround sound with Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Headphone: X. However, Dolby Atmos and DTS X may require additional purchases, app downloads, and supported hardware.

But, all-in-all, this is an awesome choice if this season, your wishlist contained a brand-new gaming headset.

Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2

Refined earcup acoustics and expertly tuned 50mm speakers are powerfully driven to give you accurate, immersive audio.
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Widely recognized as the best mic in gaming, the Discord-certified ClearCast microphone delivers studio-quality voice clarity and background noise cancellation.

And guess what? These SteelSeries Arctis 5 headphones have it equipped. If that wasn’t reason enough, you can also save up some pennies on this early sale.

SteelSeries Arctis 5

Benefit from this cutting-edge audio technology with a certified gaming microphone that has studio-quality voice sound, combined with independent game and chat controls. 
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This pair of industry-leading noise-canceling, with Dual Noise Sensor technology, is the perfect gift for yourself, or for someone who you know appreciates well-done things.

And the feeling of saving $101.99 on this purchase will also ignite the Christmas spirit in you early. And they have up to 30-hour battery life, with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback)

Sony WH-1000XM4

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Hesh Evo is the unrivaled everyday headphone for people who want to keep it simple. Along with the outstanding sound, they’re engineered with just the right amount of added features to make your life a little easier.

It is a pair of wireless headphones, so you don’t have to worry about constantly messing up the cable.

Skullcandy Hesh Evo

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These are only some of the early deals that are already available, prior to the major Cyber Monday event. There are plenty of models to choose from, you just need to decide how much you want to spend on such a device.

But if you miss this window, don’t worry, because a lot of discounts will continue throughout November, so if you really want to add to your collection, this is the month to do so.

What other gadgets are you planning to get on this Cyber Monday? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

6 Best CPU Usage Cleaner Software [Most Common Tools]

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

High CPU usage can indicate various problems. For example, if a program is eating up your whole processor, there is a high chance that the program is not behaving correctly.

If this continues, it will lead to crashes and other issues in the long run. Thus, you must clear up the apps or processes registering high CPU usage.

To make things easier, we have gathered the best CPU usage clean software that will help boost your PC performance in this guide.

How do I clean up my CPU usage?

There are different ways to clean up CPU usage spikes, depending on the factors causing the issue. Below are some of the most effective methods:

  • Restart PC: One of the easiest ways to clean up high CPU and even memory usage is to restart your PC. This will reset the processes and apps that might be misbehaving.
  • End process in Task Manager: The first point of reference where you notice unusual CPU or high disk usage is the Task Manager. You can also end the processes causing the issue from here by right-clicking them and selecting End task. This should restore normalcy quickly.
  • Uninstall unnecessary apps: Another quick way to clean up your CPU usage is to remove the apps causing the issue. You can do this quickly with one of the best uninstaller software.
  • Use CPU usage cleaner software: The most effective method is to use specialized software to normalize your CPU usage. These tools are excellent PC maintenance software built to tackle all causes of high CPU usage. So you won’t need an additional tool with them.

What’s the best CPU usage cleaner?

Fortect – Comprehensive System Repair and CPU Usage Optimizer

Fortect is a versatile PC optimization tool that is excellent at identifying and fixing issues leading to high CPU usage.

It performs a deep scan of your system to detect and repair problematic areas, such as corrupted files and missing system components, which can cause your CPU to overwork.

This tool not only cleans up your registry but also optimizes your entire system for better performance.

Fortect is user-friendly, making it accessible for both beginners and advanced users. It automatically backs up your system before applying fixes, so you can always revert to a previous state if necessary.

In addition to managing CPU usage, Fortect also addresses other performance-related issues by removing junk files, repairing damaged DLLs, and restoring stability to your system.

Some Key Features of Fortect:

  • Repairs damaged Windows files.
  • Optimizes system performance by reducing CPU load.
  • Automatically backs up system files before changes.
  • Easy-to-use interface with automated repair functions.

Fortect

Lower CPU usage of your computer with this powerful optimizer.
Free Trial Download Now

Avg TuneUp Utility – Overall best CPU usage cleaner

avg tuneup utilitiy

This utility provided by AVG comes with full support for all significant sources of high-CPU usage. This is the reason it is considered an excellent CPU usage cleaner.

AVG TuneUp cleans all your drive of junk files. It precisely identifies installers, temporary system files, and cache files that provide no benefits.

Alongside the disk cleaner, this utility for Windows also has a browser cleaner. It is compatible with all browsers and only removes unwanted data.

Another common issue that can slow down PCs is unwanted software. AVG TuneUp Utilities has a powerful uninstaller feature to identify and remove programs you no longer use.

It also has a Sleep Mode feature that is especially useful for low-end computers. This is because it lets you keep all the necessary apps without compromise. However, it disables them when they are not in use.

This ensures that no unnecessary processes are running in the background.

Other key features include:

  • Removes cookies
  • Fixes registry issues
  • Available in multiple languages

This software is compatible with Windows operating systems starting from Windows 7. It has both a free trial version and a premium, full-featured version.

AVG TuneUp Utilities

Optimize your PC with great app& file management features, disk cleaners, and other optimization tools.
Free trial Visit website

EaseUS Partition Master Free – Excellent interface

ease us partition master main window banner

EaseUS Partition Master Free it’s a very easy to use tool that works great with Windows 10 Creators. Since sometimes the disk can cause high CPU usage, you could try this tool in order to optimize it.

This software will let you fix errors that might appear on disk after an update, also it provides you with the tools to help you maintain your system in the long term.

You can use EaseUS Partition Master even before updating your system, as it allows you to create copies of your disk or just of a partition and then convert it without loosing any data.

You can change format of the partitions between NTFS/FAT32 and MBR/GPT without formatting the disk. Also, you can merge or extend a partition without loosing any data.

The EaseUS Partition Master Free lets you fix file system errors and clean up junk files. Plus, it’s surface test can help you monitor partition health and fix bad sectors.

All these tools make EaseUS Partition Master a great tool to help you maintain your disk and so make sure that is not the cause for your high CPU issues.

Here’s a list of the critical features of this handy tool:

  • It is completely free
  • The software helps you create, resize, clone, move, merge, and format partitions
  • Trusted by over 10.000.000 users worldwide
  • It has been on the market for over ten years now
  • Allows you to change clutter size and 4k align your SSD

EaseUS has an upgraded pro version and an enterprise version with additional features such as OS migration support, intelligent partition adjustment, and managing dynamic volumes.

EaseUS Partition Master Free

Let EaseUS minimize your CPU usage by fixing file system errors and cleaning up junk files.
Free Trial Visit Website

Smart High CPU Usage Fixer Pro – Simple to use

High cpu usage cleaner fixer

This CPU usage cleaner normalizes your CPU usage in just three simple steps. The software will also speed up your PC. High CPU Usage Fixer is a complete computer error fixer and Windows registry cleaner.

It can fix various Windows registry issues effortlessly. You will also be able to use a few manual fixes for all of your system’s problems.

This is a significant piece of software that can clean your system and improve usability and performance with just a few clicks of your mouse.

High CPU Usage Fixer comes with a straightforward interface that will turn out easy to understand and use even for beginners.

This software can diagnose and fix various system errors with its error knowledge base.

It can manage startup items, browser objects, Internet browser clutter, and more. Smart CPU Usage Fixer also cleans registry files and has Internet security and privacy features.

This tool is designed to provide users’ computer systems with enhanced optimization, and this will result in better management of startup items, desktop, browser objects, system service, and the Internet

Check out the best features that are included in this tool:

  • With this tool, you can instantly fix computer errors
  • High CPU Usage Fixer will speed up your system and Internet as well
  • The system’s settings will be fine-tuned to maximum performance

All the sophisticated utilities included in this tool will ensure that your system is tuned up to run at its optimal state.

It’s also important to note that the app is an excellent Windows registry cleaner. Check out more functionalities and advantages of this software on their site.

⇒ Get Smart High CPU Usage Fixer Pro

Process Tamer – Process viewer feature

Process tamer high CPU usage cleaner

Process Tamer is a CPU usage cleaner software that runs on your system and watches the CPU usage of all the running processes on your computer.

The software has a built-in process usage viewer that lets you see what is using the CPU and what priority is running.

When this utility detects an operation that has exceeded a particular threshold of the CPU usage, it temporarily reduces the priority level of that operation until the CPU usage returns to normal levels.

After the usage level drops below a certain level, that foremost priority will be restored. As a result, your system will run smoothly and lag-free again.

This feature is handy in most instances, enabling your PC to run smoother. However, you can quickly turn it on and off if you don’t want to change process priorities for certain operations.

Therefore, the process can be told to force run a set priority every time or to be ignored by the software and continue running at its standard levels.

It’s important to note that the Ignore rule will be handy, especially when programs such as burning apps or media players might set their priorities high to avoid being interrupted.

Check out other essential features of this tool:

  • Simple UI with intuitive controls
  • Balloon tooltip notifications of any real-time adjustments
  • Very lightweight

Process Tamer comes with a few configuration options. This includes changing the trigger point for low and high CPU usage, smoothing the usage average over time, and controlling the behavior of background processes

⇒ Get Process Tamer

Process Lasso – Advanced CPU usage cleaner

process lasso high CPU usage cleaner software

This is another helpful CPU usage cleaner tool that can automatically adjust process priorities. It also can alter which processor cores are used.

This will be achieved via a technique that is called Process Balancing. This process will prevent processes from hogging your system’s resources and reducing your computer’s levels of responsiveness.

This is a more advanced tool with many functions and various effects. So, it would be best if you had a high level of patience to enjoy this excellent tool.

Process Lasso is a powerful and efficient utility, so you might check it out.

Check out some other great features of this handy tool:

  • One of the most powerful features is the sheer amount of options that are available for controlling processes
  • You will find a lot of configurations and context menu entries that might be more beneficial for advanced users rather than beginners
  • The main window shows some nice graphs, and loads meters, and the central area is a process viewer and manager
  • Power plan automation
  • Provides detailed log reports

Process Lasso has a free and a Pro version. The software is compatible with Windows operating systems, starting with Windows 7. You can also use it on Windows servers, versions 2012-2019.

⇒ Get Process Lasso

These are the best tools you can find online to fix high CPU usage-related issues. After looking at their features, pick the one that most fits your needs and give it a go.

If you need a list of the best PC repair and optimizer tools, check our excellent guide on the top options available.

Please tell us your results and experience with these tools in the comments below. Good luck!

Orange Screen of Death: 5 Solutions to Fix it Easily

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

When Windows 10 encounters, severe functioning issues can sometimes display an Orange Screen of Death.

This error is far less standard than the famous Blue Screen of Death or the new Green Screen of Death errors, but it does occur. Also, it is not as dangerous as the dreaded BSOD, but it still means that there is a critical issue with your device.

This guide will show you practical solutions to quickly fix your PC’s Orange Screen of Death. Then, you only follow the instructions to the letter, and your PC will return to normal.

What causes the Orange Screen of Death?

Various factors could lead to the Orange Screen of Death. Below are some of the prevalent causes:

  • Faulty driver installation: If your PC is showing an orange screen with white lines or just the plain Orange Screen of Death, it might be because of an outdated or faulty driver. Updating your driver from the manufacturer’s website should restore normalcy here.
  • Issues with external devices: In some cases, you might have connected one too many external devices with your PC. One of these devices might be faulty or incompatible with your system, leading to this issue. The solution here is to disconnect all unnecessary devices.
  • Activities of third-party apps: Some users have found third-party apps like SoftOSD to cause this problem. You need to uninstall any app that gives you the orange screen with one of the best uninstaller software to restore normalcy.
  • PC overclocking: If you get the Orange Screen of Death while gaming, it might be because you have overclocked your PC. To solve this, you need to undo all overclocking settings and remove your overclocking software.

How can I fix the Orange Screen of Death?

There are some preliminary troubleshooting steps you need to try before proceeding to the fixes in this guide. Note that these steps have fixed this issue for some users, so you should go through them quickly.

  • Force shutdown your PC by pressing and holding the power button for some seconds
  • Disconnect all unnecessary external devices
  • Undo all overclocking settings and remove overclocking software

If you still can’t fix this problem with these steps, you can now proceed to the solutions below:

1. Remove the softOSD software

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app and select Apps.
    apps
  2. Find softOSD on the list, select it and then click the Uninstall button.
    uninstall orange screen of death
  3. If you’re prompted to remove sds64a.sys, skip that step.

Some users have reported that softOSD.exe can cause the Orange Screen of Death issue on Windows 10. Remove the softOSD software and restart your PC to solve the problem.

To be sure that all software components are removed, we will advise using a dedicated uninstaller tool in CCleaner. This excellent software digs through your PC to remove even the most stubborn leftovers of the program you want to uninstall.

This prevents further problems from occurring soon.

2. Update your drivers

2.1. Update driver manually

  1. Right-click the Start button, and select Device Manager from the list.device manager
  2. Right-click your graphics card, and select Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  4. Finally, install any available updates.

If the Windows driver updater cannot find the drivers to fix the Orange Screen of Death issue, you need to go to your driver manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest driver.

It should be noted that other drivers aside from the display drivers can cause this. If you recently updated any driver or found any entry with a yellow exclamation mark in Device Manager, it might cause a problem. So, you need to update it too

2.2 Update the drivers automatically

Updating your drivers manually can be a hassle, and if you don’t install the correct driver, you’re back to square one.

It’s much simpler and easier to use a dedicated tool that can do that automatically. The software recommended below updates and repaired your drivers in just a few seconds.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Have all your old drivers updated so you won’t experience any more crashes.
Free Trial Download Now

3. Remove multimedia devices

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type control, and hit Enter.
    control
  2. Choose the Hardware and Sound option.
    hardware
  3. Click the Devices and Printers option.
    device orange screen of death
  4. Now, right-click any needless device there and select the Remove device option.
    remove device
  5. Finally, click the Yes button when prompted to confirm the action.
    yes

Some users have found that having too many multimedia devices, especially TVs, connected to your PC can lead to the Orange Screen of Death error. Unfortunately, removing these devices and restarting your PC is the only way to fix this.

4. Type in your Bitlocker password

  1. If the Orange Screen of Death appears on bootup, type your Bitlocker password, and hit Enter.
  2. Your computer will receive the input even if you don’t see a case to type your password.
  3. After login, press the Windows key +S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator under Command Prompt.
    cmd orange screen of death
  4. Type in the following command: BCDEDIT /Set {default} bootmenupolicy legacybdcedit

The steps above are for users using BitLocker or other encryption services. After running the command above, it will turn BitLocker’s pre-boot screen into a character mode display, eliminating the Orange Screen of Death issue.

5. Update Intel Graphics Command Center

One of our readers detected that this OSoD issue might come from the fact that you’re using an old Intel Graphics Command Center version.

You can uninstall the app like any other; for that, you may use the procedure listed in Solution 2. After that, download the app from the Microsoft Store and reinstall it.

We hope that some solutions listed above helped you fix the OSoD errors you encountered.

Windows 10 orange screen errors are not the same as their more dangerous BSoD counterparts, but the solutions are often the same.

That’s why we recommend you check our list of the best software to fix BSoD issues on Windows 10.

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

The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt Next-Gen Version is coming on December 14

Posted on by Alexandru Poloboc

Witcher fans feel like they have been waiting forever for CD Projekt Red to finally release next-gen versions of their latest game, ever since this was announced back in 2020.

And, if the wait wasn’t long enough already, developers recently announced another delay, which will surely test the patience of even the most resilient gamer.

CD Projekt Red made it known that an upgraded and enhanced version of its hugely popular fantasy RPG didn’t even have a new release window, leaving many concerned.

The story has now changed and we can all rejoice in knowing that this version of the beloved triple-A title is right around the corner.

Witcher 3 The Wild Hunt announced for December 14, 2022

Many fans were eagerly waiting to relive all the adventures that Geralt of Rivia engaged in while playing The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt.

Seeing cities such as Beauclair, Oxenfurt, or Novigrad in the new resolution, with all the new graphics tweaks, is surely a treat for all fans.

However, all the anticipation that lead us to this moment simply dissipated, as developers dropped the ball on this major project.

We have decided to have our in-house development team conduct the remaining work on the next-gen version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

By reading this statement, one would understand that CD Projekt Red entrusted the process to someone else while working on the next Witcher game, and it all went downhill from there.

The company responsible for the Witcher game franchise was taking matters into its own hands and trying to deliver as soon as it can.

Now, two years after the original announcement and multiple delays, the next-gen enhanced version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is almost here.

CD Projekt RED has just shared details on the project’s features as well as gameplay footage for the first time.

CD Projekt Red is now touting ray-traced global illumination support across all current-gen platforms with this update.

Some of the other graphical additions include screen space reflections, dynamic resolution scaling, as well as texture and foliage upgrades.

For console players, quality and performance modes (60 FPS) are being introduced, while PlayStation 5 players will be happy to know that haptic feedback and adaptive triggers support is incoming.

The game will also feature Netflix show-inspired content that includes a new mission and its recognizable Nilfgaardian armor.

We can pause during cutscenes, we get HUD customization, a photo mode, a new camera, and even features from popular mods on PC.

Also, cloud-based cross-save support across all platforms is here too, allowing players to pick up the adventure where they left off from PC, Xbox Series X|S, or PlayStation 5.

Everyone who already owns the current versions of the game is getting the upgraded content for free, and CD Projekt will be releasing The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition as well.

The complete edition will contain the base experience plus all post-launch content, from the free DLC to the story expansions – Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine.

Only a digital release for the beloved title will be available at first, with a physical edition coming at a later, yet unknown date.

This last-generation version still available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch aren’t being completely left behind either.

CD Projekt Red said that it plans to bring gameplay improvements and the Netflix show-themed add-ons to these platforms later.

People were actually expecting companies like Activision Blizzard to postpone games after huge blunders, not CD Projekt Red.

But, after the Cyberpunk 2077 disaster, pretty much everything is possible. There’s not much to do except wait for the games to become available.

Please keep in mind that the studio is also working on remaking The Witcher (2007) using Unreal Engine 5, and also on the new Witcher game saga.

Eager to try out the new and improved next-gen versions of The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

Your System Requires SMB2 or Higher: 2 Ways to Enable it

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Many Windows 10 users reported that the Your system requires SMB2 or higher error message occurs on their PCs when they try to transfer specific files.

In case you’re unfamiliar, SMB stands for Server Message Block, a protocol for sharing files, and it has two versions, the SMB1 and the SMB2; the latter is the more secure one.

SMB1 protocol is vulnerable, and your system will give you a warning message saying that it requires SMB2, but don’t panic, because there are some helpful solutions.

This error message can be annoying, but it can be fixed in minutes with our solutions, so let’s get started.

Why am I getting Your system requires SMB2 or higher message?

As we explained, this version 2 is a latter model of the file-sharing protocol. Therefore, if you are shown this message on your computer, it is because of the following reasons:

  • You are running on SMB1 – Most modern systems require at least SMB2. So, this could be a missing pointer on your computer.
  • Disabled SMD2 – Other than missing on your computer, it may also not be enabled, and in this case, you will need to allow it to access some shared files.

Users have been confronted with these messages, your system requires SMB2 or higher on Windows Server 2019 Impacket and Synology. Note that the solutions discussed will come in handy in all these cases.

How can I fix the Your system requires SMB2 or higher error?

1. Turn on the Windows feature

  1. Start PowerShell as administrator by pressing the Windows Key+ X and selecting PowerShell (Admin).
    your system requires smb2 or higher
  2. Type the following line in Windows PowerShell, and press Enter:
    Get-SmbServerConfiguration | Select EnableSMB2Protocol
    powershell get_smbServerconfiguration your system requires smb2 or higher
  3. If the result is True, your system can run the SMB2 protocol.
  4. Type windows features in the Windows Search box, and select the Turn Windows features on or off option.
  5. Once the Windows Features window opens, check the SMB1/CIFS File Sharing Support option, and hit OK.
  6. Restart your PC, and check if the problem with SMB2 is resolved.

Many users have confirmed that you can run the SMBv1 protocol on Windows 10 by temporarily re-enabling the SMB service.

In some cases, legacy file sharing might still fail after enabling SMB1. Learn how to fix SMBv1 file sharing broken over NetBIOS for a complete resolution.

2. Use Powershell

  1. Start PowerShell as administrator by pressing the Windows Key+ X and selecting PowerShell (Admin).
    your system requires smb2 or higher
  2. Enter the following command, and press Enter:
    Set-SmbServerConfiguration –EnableSMB2Protocol $true
    powershell set-smbserverconfiguration your system requires smb2 or higher
  3. Press Y to confirm.

By performing this action, you will enable the SMBv2 protocol and get rid of the error message Your system requires SMB2 or higher once and for all.

These two simple solutions can help you fix the annoying Your system requires SMB2 or higher error. For more suggestions or other questions, please access the comments section below.

Windows Defender Blocked by Group Policy: 5 Solutions to use

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Millions of people use Microsoft’s built-in antivirus, Windows Defender, to protect their computers. But, unfortunately, sometimes it can’t do its job because of various errors.

One of the most common Windows Defender error messages is the following: Group Policy turns off this app.

We will discuss the causes of this problem and some of the most trusted solutions available.

Why does Group Policy block Windows Defender?

Windows Defender is a reliable built-in antimalware for the OS. If the Group Policy blocks it, there are a few common suspects, including:

  • Third-party antivirus – This message appears if you installed another antivirus program or an anti-hacking tool that isn’t fully compatible with Microsoft’s built-in antivirus.
  • Malware – If some malware infects the computer, it is possible you will get the message. Malware accessing your computer’s administrative tools may then deactivate Windows Defender through Group Policy.
  • Bad configurations – If there are faulty configurations on your Settings app, or the Group Policy, you may anticipate some problems, including Why does Group Policy block Windows Defender?

While there may be other triggers, these are the culprits in most cases.

Windows Defender is a solid antivirus, but sometimes issues can occur. Speaking of Windows Defender issues, here are some problems that users reported:

  • Group Policy blocks Windows Defender Windows 10 – This issue can occur on Windows 10 and prior versions. Even if you don’t use Windows 10, you should be able to apply most of our solutions to the older versions of Windows.
  • Turn Windows Defender on via Group Policy – If Group Policy turns your Windows Defender off, you can easily fix this problem. Simply change a couple of values in Group Policy, and Windows Defender should start working again.
  • Group Policy blocks Windows Defender – If your Group Policy blocks Windows Defender, you might be able to fix the problem simply by making a few changes in your registry.
  • Unable to start Windows Defender Group Policy – If Group Policy blocks Windows Defender, you can solve the issue simply by starting Windows Defender from the Settings app.

What can I do if This app is turned off by Group Policy?

1. Make sure that old third-party antivirus tools are removed

Windows Defender is designed to turn itself off once you install a third-party antivirus. If you had a third-party antivirus on your PC, it’s possible that the issue was caused by it.

Even if you remove your antivirus, sometimes there might be some leftover files or registry entries. These files can also interfere with Windows Defender and cause this issue to appear.

To fix the problem, removing those files from your PC is essential. The best way to do it is to download a dedicated uninstaller for your antivirus. These tools will remove any leftover files and registry entries and completely remove any application from your PC.

Also, consider switching to a different third-party antivirus. Unlike Windows Defender, third-party antivirus tools offer advanced features that many users will find useful, such as online banking protection and privacy insurance.

If you want extra security on your PC, you should consider the tool recommended below. One hundred ten million users trust it for a good reason – it offers excellent protection from malware.

TotalAV

An excellent antivirus solution that offers multi-layered protection to keep your computer safe from cyber threats.
Free Trial Visit Website

2. Delete antivirus keys from the Registry

  1. Press Windows Key + R shortcut, type regedit, and hit Enter.
    Unable to start Windows Defender Group Policy
  2. Go to the following path:
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender
  3. Finally, delete the value in the DisableAntiSpyware key.

3. Disable settings in Group Policy

  1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc in the Search bar, and hit Enter.
    Windows Defender blocked by Group Policy Windows 7
  2. Go to the following path:
    Local Computer Policy\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Micorsoft Defender Antivirus
  3. Select Windows Defender, then in the right-hand panel, double-click Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus.
  4. Lastly, in the new window, select Disable, then click Apply and OK to save the settings.

Want to use Group Policy on your Windows 10 Home edition? Find out how to get it by using this quick guide.

4. Turn on Windows Defender from the Settings app

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. When the Settings app opens, navigate to the Update & Security section.
    Windows Defender blocked by Group Policy Windows 7
  3. Select Windows Security from the menu on the left, and in the right pane, click Open Windows Security.
  4. Now select Virus & threat protection.
    Group Policy blocks Windows Defender
  5. Navigate to Virus & threat protection settings and click on Manage settings.
  6. Lastly, locate Real-time protection and enable it.
    Windows Defender stopped by Group Policy

If you’re getting a message that Group Policy deactivates Windows Defender, you might be able to fix the problem simply by turning it on from the Settings app.

5. Check if the Microsoft Defender service is running

  1. Press Windows Key + R and enter services.msc.
  2. Now press Enter or click OK.
    Windows Defender blocked by Group Policy Windows 7
  3. A list of services will now appear.
  4. Scroll down and double-click the Microsoft Defender Antivirus Service to open its properties.
  5. Finally, set the Startup type of the service to Automatic, click the Start button to start the service, then click Apply and OK to save changes.
    Group Policy blocks Windows Defender

If you’re getting a message saying that Group Policy deactivates Windows Defender, the problem might be the disabled Windows Defender service.

However, you can easily enable this service and fix the abovementioned problem. There you go. Use one of these methods, and the Group Policy will no longer disable Windows Defender.

We also have a useful guide on what to do if you can’t open the Windows Defender Scans folder, so you might want to visit it.

Lastly, if you have more suggestions or questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

Auto Login on Windows 11: How to Enable it [3 Ways]

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

The auto-login feature on Windows 11 enables users to access a computer without the need to input any login credentials, passwords, or pins. It saves users time and allows them to access Windows quickly.

In this piece, we’ll show you a few different ways to do that:

How do I enable auto login in Windows 11?

1. Use the system’s Settings

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Select Accounts from the left pane and click on Sign-in options from the right.
  3. Now look down, right under Additional settings, to turn off the Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts. If the option is greyed out, log out and log back into your account.
  4. You will be prompted to enter the password, then hit the Yes button.Windows 11 auto login
  5. Press the Windows key + R to start Run, type netplwiz, and press Enter or click OK.
  6. Now uncheck the box writing Users must enter a username and password to use this computer.Windows 11 auto login
  7. After you click Apply.
  8. Next time you restart the PC, you will automatically log in without entering a password.

If you couldn’t follow these steps because there was no checkbox in netplwiz, we have a special guide that addresses that.

2. Use a dedicated tool

  1. Download the AutoLogon tool.
  2. You will get a zip archive with the files, so extract them in a known location and double-click the one suited for your system.
  3. You will be prompted to enter your account password, so fill it in and select Yes.
  4. In the next window, enter the password again and click Enable.
  5. You will receive a message that AutoLogon was successfully configured, click OK.
  6. After a restart, you will no longer need to use a password for your account to log in.

3. Use Windows Registry

  1. Press the Windows key + R to start Run, type regedit, and press Enter or click OK.
  2. Got to the following path in the Registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
  3. Click on Edit on the top menu, select New, choose DWORD (32-bit) Value and name it AutoAdminLogon.
  4. Double-click the key to edit it and give it the value 1.
  5. Now click again on Edit, select New, choose String Value and name it DefaultUserName.
  6. Double-click the value and change the Value data with your user name.
  7. Next, click on Edit, select New, then String Value and name it DefaultPassword.
  8. Fill in your password, then click OK.

Of course, if you change your mind and want Windows 11 to ask for the password again, repeat the first two steps and delete the AutoAdminLogon, DefaultUserName, and DefaultPassword keys.

Summary

With the auto login feature enabled, you drastically reduce the security of your PC. This means that anyone who has physical or remote access to your PC can access it without restrictions. If you’re not sure which authentication method to use, check out our password vs PIN comparison to get you started.

It’s worth mentioning that this feature is available on older versions, and we wrote about enabling auto login on Windows 10 in our previous guides.

Do keep in mind that there might be issues with this feature, and many reported that auto login is not working in Windows 10 because the username or password is incorrect on autologon.

If you have any questions or suggestions, we have a comments section below that awaits your input.

Opera GX Not Responding: How to Permanently Fix it

Posted on by Andrew Wafer

Many Windows 11 users reported that Opera GX is not responding and this can be a major problem and negatively impact your browsing experience, so let’s see how to fix it.

Why is Opera always not responding?

This can happen if your browser installation is bugged or if Opera is stuck while syncing data.

What can I do if Opera GX is not responding?

If the Opera browser is not responding, try waiting for it to finish setting up and syncing. This can sometimes take up to a few hours.

1. Update the browser

  1. Open Opera GX and click the Menu button in the top left corner.
    menu icon opera gx
  2. Choose Update & Recovery.
    update and recovery opera gx
  3. Wait while Opera GX checks for updates and downloads the latest version.
    opera gx checking for updates

If you can’t launch the browser, just do the following:

  1. Press Windows key + R and enter %localappdata%.
    localappdata run dialog
  2. Next, navigate to Programs\Opera GX
  3. Select navigate to the folder that matches the latest version and run the installer.exe file from it.
    opera installer localappdata

Alternatively, you can just download the latest setup file from Opera’s website and run it force the browser to upgrade.

2. Disable syncing

  1. Open Opera GX and head to Settings.
  2. Select Privacy & security and locate Synchronization.
    synchronization settings in privacy and security section opera GX
  3. Next, disable this feature or choose the sign out option.
  4. If you’re importing files from another browser, go to Import bookmarks and settings.
    import bookmarks and settings opera gx
  5. Try disabling certain features such as bookmarks or browsing history.
    disable browsing history and bookmarks for import opera GX

These are some universal fixes if Opera GX is not responding, and they will also work on Windows 10 or even Windows 7.

For more related solutions, we recommend you look at our post on how to fix Opera crashes, freezes & restarts.

We also have a guide on what to do if Opera isn’t working on Windows 11, and a guide on how to fix Opera GX if it’s not opening, so don’t miss them.

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

Left Shift key not Working: 7 Methods to Make it Work Again

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

A PC without a functioning keyboard or mouse is unusable for most users. Hence, it’s vital to fix issues related to those components as soon as possible.

Some reported certain problems with specific keyboard keys after the system upgrade; according to them, the left Shift key is not working. However, since this is essential for everyday typing, we have prepared some solutions for you.

Why is my left Shift key not working?

There are various reasons the left Shift key might not work with some letters on your keyboard. Below are some of the common ones:

  • Outdated driver: The left Shift key might be working on your laptop because your keyboard driver is outdated. The solution is to update your driver to the latest available version.
  • Sticky keys feature: The Sticky key feature enables only one key to work at a time. Hence, if the left Shift key is not working for symbols or capitalization, it might be because the feature is enabled. You need to turn off the Sticky keys to get your keyboard working normally again.
  • Impact of dirt on keyboard: Sometimes, your keyboard might be dusty and dirty. Also, debris might have found its way into it. This can cause the keyboard to misbehave, leading to this issue.
  • Activities of third-party apps: If you have an app related to keyboard use, it might mess with the device. In this case, you need to remove the app and its components using one of the best uninstaller software.

What are common problems with the Shift key?

Here are some problems that users reported:

  • Shift key not working Windows 10: This issue can appear on any version of Windows, and older versions aren’t an exception. Even if you’re not using Windows 10, you should be able to apply all solutions to older versions of Windows.
  • Keyboard Shift key not working properly: According to users, sometimes the key won’t work correctly on your keyboard. This can sometimes be caused by malware, so perform a full system scan.
  • Left Shift key not working: Sometimes, just one Shift key can be affected by this issue. If that’s the case, check if your Shift key is stuck. You might need to press it to unstuck it or clear the key socket to fix the problem.
  • HP laptop Shift key not working: If this problem occurs on your laptop, it’s possible that your keyboard isn’t correctly connected. You must remove your keyboard and connect the ribbon cable tightly to your motherboard to fix it.
  • Shift key won’t capitalize: This is another common problem on your PC. However, you should be able to fix this issue by using one of our solutions.

How can I fix the left Shift key if it’s not working?

Before applying the fixes listed in this section, we recommend performing the following prerequisite checks:

  • Remove dust and dirt from the keyboard and turn it upside down to eliminate debris
  • Try to use an external keyboard if it is a laptop
  • Ensure there is no key stuck on the keyboard. If there is any, press it firmly to unstick it
  • Connect the external keyboard to another PC

1. Make sure you have the latest drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager from the list.
  2. Find Keyboard in the driver’s list. Double-click on your device to open its properties.
  3. Click Details and choose HardwareID from the drop-down list. Then, copy the first line and paste it into your web browser.
  4. Find the official driver support and download the drivers.
  5. Install and restart the PC.

Updating drivers manually can be tedious, especially if you don’t know where and how to find the necessary drivers. However, you can automate this process using specialized tools such as Outbyte Driver Updater.

2. Check for malware

  1. Press Windows key + X and type defender. Select Windows Security.
  2. Select Virus & threat protection and click on Quick scan.
  3. Wait for the scan to finish.

Sometimes, the presence of malware can cause the left Shift key not working issue. Scanning for malware with the built-in security app should help fix this.

If Windows Defender is not giving you the desired result, you might consider a top-notch antivirus in TotalAV. This software offers complete online and offline security against viruses.

TotalAV can detect and eliminate even the most hidden malware quickly. To make things better, it is lightweight and does not mess with your activities.

TotalAV

A lightweight antivirus program with high-detection scores and strong protection to keep digital threats away from your PC.
Free Trial Visit Website

3. Run the keyboard troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Update & Security option.
    update and security
  2. Select Troubleshoot in the left pane and click the Additional troubleshooters option.
    troubleshoot left shift key not working
  3. Now, select Keyboard and click Run the troubleshooter.
    run troublesshooter

Sometimes, minor glitches might be why the left Shift key is not working. In this case, you must run the keyboard troubleshooter to diagnose and fix it.

4. Uninstall third-party software related to keyboard use

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Apps and features.
  2. Now locate the keyboard software that you have installed.
  3. Please select it and click on Uninstall.
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen to remove it.

To ensure that the application you’re trying to remove is completely uninstalled, we suggest using uninstaller software in CCleaner since it will remove all files and registry entries associated with the software.

5. Try running the Safe mode

  1. Press the Windows key + S and type recovery. Select Recovery options from the menu.
  2. In the Advanced startup section, click on Restart now.
  3. Now select Troubleshoot.
  4. Navigate to Advanced options.
  5. Now choose Startup settings and click on Restart.
  6. Select Safe Mode with Networking by pressing F5 or 5.
  7. Check if the problem is present in Safe Mode.

For more information, you should check our guide on the best ways to start Windows 11 in Safe Mode.

6. Disable the Sticky Keys feature

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Navigate to the Ease of Access section.
  3. Select Keyboard from the left pane. In the right pane, set the Sticky keys to Off.

7. Make sure that your Windows is up to date

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. When the Settings app opens, go to the Update & Security section.
  3. Now click the Check for updates button.

These are our solutions for the left Shift key not working issue. We hope that at least one of these workarounds helped you to deal with this issue.

If you’re having more issues, check our Shift key not working on Windows 10 guide for more valuable solutions.

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

Tradingview Cyber Monday 2023: up to 70% Off +1 Free Month

Posted on by Teodor Nechita

We live in an age where you can literally make money by sitting at home, and all you need to do is trade stocks, watch the market, and make judicious predictions of what might happen next.

Of course, their requirements limit the number of people who can actually do it, except if you use dedicated software or an online service like TradingView.

Since its purpose is to make you money, why not spend less on it now, while they are having their Cyber Monday sales?

How to save up to 70% on TradingView annual plans?

For those of you who haven’t used the platform yet, TradingView is an online web-based trading service that provides you with real-time data and browser-based charts.

Do not be afraid of all that complicated data you have on the charts. The tools will help you understand its UI/UX and come with great support.

These let you do your research from anywhere since there are no installations or complex setups and all you need is an Internet connection.

To be more precise, the Tradingview platform is a technical analysis tool with a plethora of functions. Tradingview offers paper trading with a preset virtual balance of $100,000. It keeps track of all paper trading orders and shows how much profit or loss is made on the trades you make.

Tradingview also has a screening feature that allows you to shortlist companies based on both fundamental and technical factors.

Depending on the toolset you plan on taking, there are currently 3 subscription plans:

  • Essential
    • -30% off ⇒ save $53.40/year
  • Pro+
    • – 40% off ⇒ save $143.40/year
  • Premium
    • – 70% off ⇒ save $502.44/year

And to make things even better, all the plans also include 1 free month.

TradingView

Start trading like a pro and see your finances grow with the help of this highly intuitive and resourceful online service!
Up to 70% OFF Visit Website

At first, online trading may seem scary, but if you have a reliable tool by your side, there’s nothing to worry about. More so, since you can now get TradingView at such a massive discount, you can end up making money with half the initial investment as before.

Also, Trading View is an excellent place to simply learn about the markets in real-time and get a lot of useful data that will help you understand the investing world.

Does this Cyber Monday deal make you want to try your skills in online trading? Let us know in the comments section below.

How to Remove Ads by DNS Unlocker (Safest Steps to Do It)

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

DNS Unlocker is not a virus but is categorized as PUP, which might install malicious programs, such as toolbars, adware, etc., on your computer. This could slow your browsing speed and your PC.

This guide will talk about all the possible methods to remove ads by DNS Unlocker without harming your computer.

How can I remove ads by DNS Unlocker?

 1. Remove DNS Unlocker by uninstalling

  1. Press Windows + R to get the Run window
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter.Appwiz.cpl
  3. Locate DNS Unlocker from the list of installed programs, right-click on it and select Uninstall.Uninstall how to remove ads by dns unlocker
  4. The app will start to uninstall; follow the instructions on the prompts if they appear. You will be notified once the app is uninstalled. 

2. Modify browser settings

Note: It is important to restart your computer in Safe boot before starting the process.

2.1 Reset your browser

  1. Launch Chrome and click on three horizontal dots, and select Settings.Browser remove ads by DNS Unlocker
  2. On the left side pane, click Reset and clean up.Reset Chrome
  3. Now click on Restore settings to their original defaults.Restore to defaults
  4. You will get a dialog box asking you to Reset Settings. Click Reset Settings.Reset Settings

2.2 Delete browsing data 

  1. On the Settings page of Chrome, click Privacy and Security.
  2. Now click Clear browsing data.Browsing data
  3. On the next window, put a checkmark on all three boxes and click Clear data.Clear Data

2.3 Remove unnecessary extensions

  1. On Chrome, click on three dots, go to More Tools, then click Extensions.More tools extensions
  2. Check all the installed extensions and remove the ones you don’t remember installing.Extensions

2.4 Clear the host DNS of your browser

  1. Open Chrome and copy and paste the following address in the address bar. chrome://net-internals/#dnsClear host cache
  2. Click on Clear host cache to clear the cache.
  3. Close the browser.

3. Modify network settings

  1. Press Windows + R to get a Run window.NCPA run command
  2. Type ncpa.cpl and hit Enter to open Network Connections.
  3. Right-click on the type of internet connection, right-click on it, and select Properties.Network Settings
  4. Now double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).Network 2
  5. Put a checkmark beside Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.Network 3
  6. Click OK and then again click OK.

4. Run an antivirus scan

  1. Press Windows + R to get the Run console.
  2. Type windowsdefender: within and press Enter to open Windows Security.Windows Security RUN COMMAND
  3. Click Virus & threat protection.WIndows Security - Virus & Threat Protection
  4. Now click  Scan options.Scan options
  5. Select Full scan.Full scan
  6. Your computer will scan your computer for threats, and it may take a while.

5. Use a third-party app

A third-party security tool like Hitman Pro can quickly scan your Windows PC and remove PUPs. It comes with advanced malware scanning and removal tools. Moreover, it works well with any antivirus program installed on your computer. To remove ads by DNS Unlocker via Hitman Pro, follow these steps: 

  1. Download and install HitmanPro.
  2. Launch the app and click the Next button to start the scan.
  3. After completing the scan, you will get a list of PUPs on your computer. Click Next to remove all of them.
Tip icon Tip
It is advised to download apps from the official website. Also, while installing, check the installation wizard properly. Furthermore, always select Custom Install to avoid getting any PUPs installed on your computer.

So, these are the easiest and most secure ways to remove ads by DNS Unlocker from your Windows computer. Try them and let us know what worked for you in the comments section below.

VCRUNTIME140_1.dll Not Found: How to Get it Back

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

You will face the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll not found error on your Windows PC when you play a program that does not have the particular file in the directory. Because of this error, either the game or program won’t open or will stop working mid-way. Here is the full error message;

The code excution cannot proceed because vcruntime140_1dll was not found. Reinstalling the program may fix this problem.

Users encounter this error with games or any third-party program that uses the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file. This guide will give you a bunch of solutions that will help you resolve this error.

What causes the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error in Windows?

Here are some of the most common reasons that could trigger the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error in Windows.

  • The VCRUNTIME DLL file is missing: The error could be genuine and the program associated with it doesn’t have the DLL file in the directory.
  • The program isn’t installed correctly: Due to interrupted installation, several programs may skip important files only to throw up errors afterward.
  • Your PC is infected by a virus or malware: A virus or malware can not only steal your personal info but it could also damage the system and program-related files. Check out our best antivirus for Windows 7 guide.
  • There is an issue with the Windows Registry: In case of unnecessary tweaks or accidental changes, the Windows Registry might have changed.

How can I fix the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error in Windows?

Here are some preliminary solutions you can apply to resolve the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error.

  • Check if restarting your PC fixes the issue for you. Temporary glitches or errors can be easily fixed by performing a simple restart.
  • Performing a system scan will allow you to see if your PC is infected with a virus or malware or not.
  • Uninstall any program you have recently installed, after which the issue started.

Let us go through the advanced solutions to resolve the error.

1. Manually register the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. regsvr32 /u VCRUNTIME140_1.dll regsvr32 VCRUNTIME140_1.dll
  4. Restart the PC and check if this resolves the issue or not.

If running a program throws up a VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error, then you can try to manually register the file by using the above commands on your PC.

2. Reinstall important VC Runtimes

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter.
  3. Locate the VC runtime installed on your PC and uninstall it.
  4. Restart your computer.
  5. Visit the website and download the latest available VC Runtime.
  6. Install it on your PC.
  7. Restart your PC and check if this resolves the issue or not.

DLL files are a part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages. If the file goes missing, you need to uninstall it and then reinstall it on your PC to fix the error.

3. Run SFC and DISM commands

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannow
  4. Your system will run a scan and will look for corrupt or missing system files. They will be fixed during the process.
  5. Once the process completes, type the below command and press Enter. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  6. Restart your PC and check if this resolves the error or not.

Running the SFC and DISM commands will scan and fix the corrupt or missing system files, which could be triggering the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error.

4. Run a third-party DLL fixer

There are a lot of DLL fixers available on the internet that you can take help from to fix the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file not found error.

These can help you fix DLL errors and enable you to repair any corrupt or missing system files on your PC.

In case you wish to try out other DLL fixer tools, then we have compiled a list that includes some of the best DLL fixer software you can try out and resolve errors.

5. Download and replace the DLL file manually

  1. Visit this website and download the DLL file.
  2. Unzip the downloaded file in a location.
  3. Right-click on the DLL file and select Copy.
  4. Paste the file inside the target folder.

We have a guide that lists some solutions to help you resolve the Unityplayer.dll not found error. You can also check out our guide to fix the Autorun.dll error.

Several users also face the Msvcr110.dll is missing error; for that, you can refer to this guide. If you are facing D3dcompiler_43.Dll not found error, then you can check out our guide that lists 7 solutions to fix this issue.

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

How to Fix Windows Update Error 80244019 on Windows 7

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Windows 7 is an ancient operating system, but some users across the globe are still using it. Several users’ reports on various forums confirm that after installing a bunch of updates, they randomly receive Windows update error 80244019 on their Windows 7 PCs. Here is one such user report;

I’m using windows 7 there is an update error 80244019. I’m unable to solve it and I have another problem my pc shut down while I’m working on it. please give me suggestion to solve it.

This error also pops up when a user tries to update their PCs. If you are facing the Windows update error 80244019 on your Windows 7 PC and are looking for solutions, then you can follow the fixes in this guide to fix the problem.

What causes the Windows update error 80244019 on Windows 7?

After some research, we have come up with a list that shows some of the most common reasons that trigger the Windows update error 80244019 on Windows 7;

  • Corrupt DLL files: The presence of faulty or corrupt DLL files can often trigger multiple system errors on your PC.
  • Malware or virus: If your PC is infected with a virus or malware, then it will misbehave and cause issues with normal processes as well. Check out our best antivirus for Windows 7 guide.
  • Windows Update service is problematic: If the Windows Update service ran into an error, then this could trigger issues related to it.
  • Third-party app conflict: Often third-party apps conflict with the system-related apps and cause issues with them.

How can I fix Windows update error 80244019 on Windows 7?

Here are some preliminary fixes you can apply before advancing the advanced solutions.

  • Check if restarting your PC fixes the issue for you. Temporary glitches or errors can be easily fixed by performing a simple restart.
  • Scan your PC for viruses. Performing a system scan will allow you to see whether your PC is infected with a virus or malware.
  • Close all the unwanted background apps using Task Manager.

Now let us take a look at the advanced solutions.

1. Turn on Data Execution Prevention

  1. Open the Run dialogue by pressing the Win + R keys.
  2. Type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter.
  3. Switch to the Advanced tab.
  4. Under the Performance section, select Settings.
  5. Select Data Execution Prevention.
  6. Choose Turn on DEP for Essential Windows Programs and Services only option.
  7. Click Apply.
  8. Restart your PC and check if this resolves the issue or not.

According to several users, turning on the Data Execution Prevention feature fixes the Windows update error 80244019 on their Windows PC. This prevents other processes on your PC from interrupting the Windows update process.

2. Restart Windows Update Service

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.
  3. Locate the Windows Update service and right-click on it.
  4. Select Stop from the context menu.
  5. After a while, right-click on the Windows Update service and select Start.
  6. Close Services.
  7. Restart your PC and check if this resolves the issue or not.

There are chances that the Windows Update service is currently facing some issues. You can restart it by following the above process. Some users reported that because the service was stopped by default for them, starting it fixed the problem.

3. Run SFC Scan

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for the command prompt and run it as an administrator.
  3. Type the below command and press Enter. sfc /scannowsfc scan command in command prompt
  4. Your system will look for corrupt system files and will fix them in the process.
  5. Restart your PC.

SFC Scan is an in-built tool that allows you to scan for corrupt or missing system files. Chances are that some critical Windows Update-related files are missing from your PC. You can quickly fix it with the SFC Scan command.

4. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type troubleshoot and open it.
  3. Under System and Security, select Fix problems with Windows Update.
  4. Click Next.
  5. The troubleshooter will detect the errors and prompt you to apply solutions to resolve them.

Windows Update troubleshooter is another great in-built way to fix the problems related to Windows updates.

5. Limit Windows update

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Click on Windows Update.
  4. Select Change settings.
  5. Uncheck the option Give me updates for other Microsoft products when I update Windows.
  6. Click OK.
  7. In case the box was already unchecked, then tick the box.
  8. Click OK.
  9. Restart your PC.

That is it from us in this guide. But, unfortunately, Windows 7 update error 80244019 isn’t the only update error troubling its users.

If you are having issues updating your Windows 7 PC, then you can refer to our guide that lists 7 fixes to resolve the problem.

This guide provides many solutions to the most common Windows 7 update errors. For users facing error code 80072efe, they can refer to this guide.

In the comments below, let us know which of the above solutions resolved the Windows update error 80244019.

Posted in Fix

LOTRO Won’t Launch: How to Fix it in 5 Comprehensive Steps

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

LOTRO is a short form for Lord of The Rings Online multiplayer game. Unfortunately, there are multiple user reports highlighting the fact that Windows users aren’t able to play the game on their PCs. Here is one of the user reports;

Brand new computer, brand new install of Lotro via Steam. It won’t launch. A launch window appears for all of one second and then goes away and that’s it. I’ve uninstalled and reinstalled a fresh one multiple times.

While the launcher opens successfully, the login happens successfully, but nothing happens. If you are a LOTRO player looking for solutions to fix LOTRO won’t launch issue, then continue reading this guide for fixes.

What causes LOTRO won’t launch in Windows issue?

After some research, we have deduced a list containing some common reasons that trigger the LOTRO won’t launch in Windows.

  • Not enough permissions: You need to make sure that you are giving sufficient permission to the game in order for it to access the resources it needs to run.
  • Missing DLL files: If there are some important DLL files missing, then you will face multiple issues one of which is the LOTRO won’t launch problem.
  • DirectX isn’t up to date: DirectX is required to render the LOTRO game. Chances are that the DirectX on your PC is running an older version.
  • Corrupt LOTRO installation file: Due to interrupted installation, chances are some important game files are missing, which is causing the problem.
  • The game is running on integrated GPU: If there is a dedicated GPU on your PC, then if the game makes use of the integrated GPU then the game will have some issues.

What can I do if LOTRO won’t launch on Windows?

Before you jump and go ahead with the advanced troubleshooting solution, you can try out the solutions below and check if this resolves the issue.

  • Check if restarting the game works. Often the game glitches because of a temporary error. However, a simple restart can usually do the trick.
  • Make sure the internet connection is working fine. Since the game is online-based, it will require a connection to the internet.
  • Install DirectX from the official website to get the latest version of it.

Now let us check the advanced solutions to fix LOTRO won’t launch in Windows.

1. Run in compatibility mode

  1. Right-click on the main EXE file and choose Properties.
  2. Click on the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check the box associated with Run this program in compatibility mode.
  4. Select Windows 7 from the drop-down menu.
  5. Click Apply to save the changes.
  6. Run the launcher and check if this resolves the issue.

While the game runs without any issues on Windows 10 or 11, some users facing the LOTRO won’t launch issue fixed the problem by running it in the Windows 7 compatibility mode.

You can follow the above steps and run the LOTRO EXE file in Windows 7 compatibility mode to see if this resolves the problem.

2. Run the launcher as an admin

  1. Right-click on the LOTRO launcher’s EXE file.
  2. Select the Run as administrator option.

If this fixes the issue, then not providing sufficient privileges was the main reason you came across this problem.

To always open it as an administrator, follow the steps below.

  1. Right-click on the LOTRO launcher EXE file.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Click on the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

3. Revert graphics settings

  1. Open the Launcher.
  2. Click on the downward arrow button at the top.
  3. Select Options.
  4. Choose Repair.
  5. Click on Graphics.
  6. Select the Revert Graphics option.
  7. Click on Accept to save the changes.

This solution applies to the LOTRO game, but you can try this solution with other games facing similar issues.

Often tweaking the in-game graphics settings can lead to multiple errors. You can revert back to the original graphics settings and check whether this resolves the issue.

4. Check the integrity of the LOTRO game files

  1. Launch the Steam client.
  2. Click on the Library tab.
  3. Right-click on the LOTRO game and select Properties.
  4. Switch to the LOCAL FILES tab.
  5. Click on Verify integrity of game files.
  6. Steam will begin verifying the game files and repair missing or corrupt game files that might trigger the black screen issue.

Verifying the integrity of the game file performs a check. It checks all the files you have on your computer and the ones on the official Steam servers.

5. Reinstall the game

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Open Control Panel.
  3. Select Programs and Features.
  4. Locate the LOTRO installation and click on it.
  5. Select Uninstall from the top.
  6. Follow the on-screen prompts to uninstall the game.
  7. Visit the official LOTRO website.
  8. Download the game.
  9. Install it on your PC.
  10. Run the game and check if this resolves the issue or not.

That is it from us in this guide. Let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions resolves the LOTRO game won’t launch issue on your PC.

Deleted Files Keep Coming Back on Windows 10 [SOLVED]

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Deleting files is critical to clear storage space and make the computer run faster. But, several users reported that deleted files keep coming back in Windows 10.

The error, though not very common, can be encountered by some. But with a systematic and thorough approach, you can always fix it.

Read the following sections to find out what to do when a file reappears after deleting it.

Why do deleted files keep reappearing after deletion?

Here are some of the reasons why deleted files keep returning after deletion:

  • Using a cloud storage service with sync enabled – One of the most common reasons behind the problem is using a cloud storage service with the sync feature enabled.
  • The file/folder is critical to a program – In many cases, users later realized that the deleted file/folder belonged to a particular program, and it kept creating it.
  • Presence of malware – Oftentimes, the issue arises due to the presence of malware on the system.
  • Corrupt Recycle Bin – If the recycle bin is corrupt, the deleted files may keep coming back in Windows 10.
  • Misconfigured permissions:– Though uncommon, several users managed to resolve the issue by reconfiguring the permissions.

Also, here are a few cases when the deleted files may keep coming back in Windows 10:

  • Deleted files keep coming back when using an SD card – Check for malware on the SD card and verify if it’s corrupt.
  • Deleted files keep coming back on OneDrive – The problem is largely linked to the sync feature on OneDrive. Changing the sync settings fixes the problem in this case.
  • Deleted files keep coming back (USB) – It’s usually an issue with the USB drive, and a complete format should get things running.

What can I do if deleted files keep coming back on Windows 10?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick fixes that resolved things for many users:

  • Check if you have any third-party file manager or cloud storage software installed, and disable them all.
  • Make sure you are running the latest version of the OS.
  • Empty the Recycle Bin after deleting the files.
  • Run a full system scan for malware and virus.

In case the deleted folder or file still keeps coming back in Windows 10, try these methods next.

1. Disable Sync on OneDrive

  1. Locate the OneDrive icon in the System tray, and click on it.
  2. Now, click on the gear icon and select Settings.settings
  3. Click on the Choose folders button in the Action tab.choose folders
  4. Next, uncheck all the folders you don’t want to sync and click on OK to save the changes.disable sync to fix deleted files keep coming back windows 10

Once done, the deleted files should not keep coming back in Windows 10. In case these still do, the problem likely lies elsewhere. So, try the next solution.

2. Fix a corrupted Recycle Bin

  1. Type Command Prompt in the Search bar, and click on Run as administrator.command prompt
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Paste the following command and press Enter: rd /s /q C:$Recycle.binThe rd command windows 10 deleted files come back
  4. Once done, restart the computer and now delete the files that reappeared earlier.

3. Change permissions

  1. Right-click on the folder where the problematic file/folder that keeps reappearing is stored, and select Properties.properties
  2. Navigate to the Security tab, and click on Advanced.advanced to fix deleted files keep coming back windows 10
  3. Now, click on Change.change
  4. Type Everyone in the text field, and click on Check Names and then on OK.set to everyone to fix deleted files keep coming back windows 10
  5. Once done, click on Apply and then on OK to save the changes.save changes

That’s it! After you have changed the ownership of the folder, the deleted files wouldn’t keep coming back in Windows 10. If that’s not the case, the next method will certainly help you.

4. Delete files using specialized software

Instead of deleting with the usual Windows options, try erasing files that reappear with third-party file deletion software.

Dedicated, file shredding software enables users to delete selected files and folders more thoroughly. So, files might not reappear after they’re deleted with that software.

When Windows 10 deletes a file, it doesn’t actually remove it but only marks the space that was taken by the file as free. File shredding software gets rid of the file for good.

Easy File Shredder

Erase any file or folder with this third-party file shredder software with just a few clicks.
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Those are a few resolutions that will ensure that deleted files don’t keep coming back in Windows 10. Also, these work for shortcuts and can be used on the latest iteration, i.e., Windows 11, as well.

Also, find out how to boost the performance of your Windows 10 PC with our quick and simple steps.

If you know any other possible solutions, share them in the comments section below.

An Error Has Occurred in The Script on This Page [Fix]

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

You will come across An error that has occurred in the script of this page error mostly with programs using Internet Explorer scripts. There are a lot of programs, such as Microsoft Teams, that make use of Internet Scripts.

This issue isn’t specific to a particular version of Windows and occurs on all recent versions, including Windows 10/11. In this guide, we will give you a bunch of solutions that will help you resolve the An error has occurred in the script on this page error. So let us get right into it.

What causes An error has occurred in the script on this page issue?

After investigating multiple user reports, we have deduced a list of the most common errors that could trigger the An error has occurred in the script on this page error on your PC.

  • Java is missing on your PC: If the Java environment isn’t installed on your PC, then you can come across this error message.
  • An extension is causing the issue: An installed extension is causing conflict if you have previously enabled third-party extension for Internet Explorer.
  • DLL is missing or unregsitered: In case an important DLL file goes missing or corrupt, you will come across multiple errors on your PC.
  • Script-related apps are running: Since the error is related with programs using Internet Explorer scripts, such apps running in the background can throw up such error notifications.
  • Some Internet Explorer settings are conflicting: Some of the internet settings might have been accidentally tweaked which could cause the problem.

How can I fix An error has occurred in the script on this page error message?

Here are a few solutions you can apply before jumping over with the advanced method to fix this error message.

  • To fix temporary issues or glitches, you can restart your PC, as it will load all the files from scratch which might have been missed during the previous session.
  • Scan your PC for viruses. Often a virus or malware can trigger multiple errors on your PC. Therefore, it is always a safe bet to scan your PC from time to time.

Let us move over to the advanced solutions.

1. Install Java on your PC

  1. Visit the official Java website.
  2. Select the option Windows Online.
  3. Choose the download directory.
  4. Wait for the download to finish.
  5. Run the downloaded file.
  6. Click on Install.
  7. Once the setup is finished, click on Close.

To install Java on your PC, you read our how to install Java on Windows 11 guide.

2. Disable third-party extensions

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Control Panel and open it.
  3. Click on Internet Options.
  4. Select the Advanced tab.
  5. Under the Browsing section, uncheck the Enable third-party browser extensions box.
  6. Click on Apply to save the changes.
  7. Restart your computer and check if this fixes the issue or not.

Extensions are meant to provide you with a few extra features while browsing. However, these extensions can often misbehave and cause issues with the internet.

3. Regsiter the urlmon.dll file

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type Regsvr32 urlmon.dll and hit Enter.
  3. If the registration is successful, you will see a message DllRegisterServer urmon.dll succeeded.
  4. Click on OK.

Multiple user reports confirm that An error has occurred in the script on this page error message was fixed by registering the urlmon.dll file on your PC.

You can also try doing so by following the above steps and checking if this fixes the issue or not.

4. Disable error script notifications

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Control Panel and open it.
  3. Click on Internet Options.
  4. Select the Advanced tab.
  5. Under the Browsing section, uncheck the Display a notification about every script error box.
  6. Click on Apply to save the changes.
  7. Restart your computer and check if this fixes the issue or not.

A simple way to eliminate the script error notification is to disable it by following the above steps. This will prevent any script error notification from appearing on your PC.

5. Reset Internet Explorer

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Control Panel and open it.
  3. Click on Internet Options.
  4. Select the Advanced tab.
  5. Click on the Reset button at the bottom of the page.
  6. Check the box for Delete Personal Settings.
  7. Click on the Reset button.

If nothing works, you can reset the Internet Explorer settings on your PC by following the steps mentioned above.

We have a guide that will give you steps to access Internet Explorer in Windows 10 and the file location from where you can access it.

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

Windows Media Player is Not Opening: 5 Ways to Fix it

Posted on by Sagar Naresh

Windows Media Player is the default media player app for Windows OS. It was replaced by Media Player in Windows 11. However, many still prefer the Windows Media Player for playing their media files. There are a bunch of user reports that claim that for them the Windows Media Player won’t open.

If you are one of such users and are looking for solutions, then you have landed in the right place. Because in this guide, we will give you a bunch of solutions that will help you fix the Windows Media Player won’t open problem. Let us get right into it.

How to use the old Windows Media Player in Windows 11?

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Turn Windows features on or off and open it.
  3. Expand Media Features.
  4. Check the box for Windows Media Player.
  5. Click OK to install it on your PC.
  6. Restart your PC.
  7. Open the Start menu.
  8. Search for Windows Media Player and open it.
  9. Now you can use the old media player on your Windows 11 PC.

Using the steps mentioned above, you can enable the old Windows Media Player on your Windows 11 PC.

In case, you are facing issues running it or it isn’t opening on your Windows PC, then follow the solutions mentioned below.

How can I fix Windows Media Player won’t open problem?

Before applying the advanced solutions, check out some preliminary fixes and hopefully resolve the Windows Media Player won’t open problem.

  • Reboot your PC as it could fix multiple temporary glitches that your PC might be facing.
  • Check if you are using Windows Media Player as the default player to open the media file or not.
  • Enable Windows Media Player on your Windows 11 PC by following the steps mentioned above.

Now let us jump to the advanced solutions below.

1. Run the troubleshooter

  1. Press the Win + I buttons to open Settings.
  2. Select Troubleshoot from the right side.
  3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
  4. Scroll down and hit the Run button for Video Playback.
  5. The troubleshooter will begin the process and will prompt you to apply solutions to fix the error.

Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter that will help you tackle most of the common errors and glitches on your PC.

You can follow the above steps and run the troubleshooter to fix the Windows Media Player won’t open problem.

2. Re-register the DLL

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for the command prompt and run it as an administrator.command prompt admin windows 11
  3. Type the below commands and press Enter after each one. regsvr32 vbscript.dll regsvr32 wmp.dll regsvr32 jscript.dll
  4. Open the Windows Media Player and see if this resolves the issue or not.

If the Windows Media Player-associated DLL files are missing, then you will come across multiple issues. In such a case, we would suggest you follow the above steps and re-register the DLL files, and check if this resolves the problem or not.

3. Reinstall Windows Media Player

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Turn Windows features on or off and open it.
  3. Expand Media Features.
  4. Uncheck the box for Windows Media Player.
  5. Click on Yes in the prompt that appears.
  6. Click OK to uninstall it from your PC.
  7. Restart your PC.
  8. Once the computer reboots, follow the steps again and this time, check the Windows Media Player box to install it on your PC.
  9. After the installation is complete, you can open it and see if this resolves the error or not.

4. Restart the Windows Media Player process

  1. Right-click on the Start menu and select Task Manager. You can also open it by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc buttons.
  2. Under the Processes tab, locate the Windows Media Player process.
  3. Select the Windows Media Player process and hit the End task button.
  4. Open the Windows Media Player again and check if this resolves the issue or not.

5. Clear Windows Media Player database

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialogue.
  2. Type the below command and hit Enter. %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Media Player
  3. Press Ctrl + A to select all the files in the folder.
  4. Hit the Delete button on your keyboard to delete all the files. You can alternatively, right-click on any file after selecting them all and select Delete from the context menu.
  5. Restart the Windows Media Player and check if it fixes the issue or not.

Several users have suggested that clearing the Windows Media Player Library helped them fix the Windows Media Player won’t open issue on their PC.

Windows Media Player won’t open isn’t the only issue that you will come across on your PC. You can check out our guide on how to fix Windows Media Player as stopped working error.

If the album art on the media player isn’t changing then we have a guide that lists some of the best solutions to fix the Windows Media Player cannot change album art.

You can also change your media player if the default one is presenting problems.

Let us know in the comments below, which one of the above solutions resolved the Windows Media Player won’t open error on your PC.

4 Best Vertical Computer Mouse to Buy [Cyber Monday]

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Did you know that the mouse you’re using may be causing you more harm than good? Using a basic computer mouse for extended periods of time can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

In case you’re experiencing pain in your mouse hand or maybe you just want to plan ahead, we recommend investing in a vertical ergonomic mouse.

Is a vertical mouse better for carpal tunnel? When compared to their flat counterparts, vertical computer mice sport a natural handshake shape which helps reduce pressure on the wrist and forearm.

So, if you’re looking to give your wrist rest this month, then you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve listed 4 of the best vertical computer mice for you.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

Which vertical mouse is the best?

Anker 2.4G Wireless

  • Premium feel for the money
  • Minimizes twisting of the wrist
  • 18-month warranty
  • Great customer service record
  • Too big for some hands
Check price

You can tell that the Anker team cooks up their tech with love when it comes to manufacturing computer mice.

Possessing a sleek matte finish, Anker’s new vertical mouse comes shaped with a cozy angle for your palm and fingers, minimizing the stress placed on your wrist and elbow.

If that isn’t enough to get you excited and snatch one up yourself, the mouse also comes with a hefty 18-month warranty and is backed up by an amazing customer service team.

Logitech MX

  • 10% decrease in wrist pressure
  • High precision sensor
  • Rechargeable battery
  • DPI adjustment doesn’t work over Bluetooth
Check price

Logitech baked this mouse with stress injury care as one of the main ingredients.

Finding the middle ground between ergonomics and performance, the 57-degree angle of this vertical mouse is specifically designed to decrease muscle strain and pressure on the wrist by 10%.

On top of this, the mouse comes with a 4000 DPI high-precision sensor for hyper-efficient tracking; thus, minimizing unnecessary hand movement.

Lastly, this vertical mouse comes with a rechargeable battery that can stay powered for up to 4 months after being fully charged.

J-Tech Digital Wireless

  • Wireless connection over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Adjustable tilt
  • 600 DPI minimum
Check price

Have you ever wanted to know what it feels like to hold the future in the palm of your hand?

If you want to know what the future of ergonomic design truly feels like, the team at J-Tech Digital has developed a vertical mouse just for you.

This mouse comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options for your wireless needs, a rechargeable battery and, to finish it off, 20 degrees of customizable adjustment so you can discover your own ergonomic sweet spot.

Penguin Ambidextrous

  • Ambidextrous design
  • Antimicrobial
  • 2-year warranty
  • Necessary to move the whole arm even for small movements
Check price

Why go see penguins at the zoo when you can have one sitting on your desk?

This vertical mouse isn’t great only because of the ambidextrous tuxedo design, it was also designed to combat three major health risks associated with basic, flat computer mice:

  • Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
  • Static muscle strain (SMS)

As an added bonus, you can share your Penguin vertical mouse with friends/family/colleagues since it’s also antimicrobial and will inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Vertical mice are a great alternative to basic, flat mice because they provide a natural hand-shake grip that reduces stress in the wrist and elbow, helping prevent potential problems in the future such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Ultimately, investing in a vertical mouse is a clear choice when wrist health comes to mind, just remember that some vertical mice compromise on mobility in the favor of comfort and health.

And if you choose to go wireless, then consider investing in a rechargeable battery.

How to Check Blue Screen Log: 4 Ways to Access Crash Files

Posted on by Madalina Dinita

Today, we’ll walk you through 4 easy ways to check the Blue Screen log on Windows. This will help you figure out what type of errors crash your PC. Once you know that, you can easily address and fix them.

Let’s get right to it.

How to check the Blue Screen log

Table of contents

1. Use the Event Viewer

  1. 1. Press Windows + X to open the Power User menu, and then click on Event Viewer to launch the app.

    event-viewer-w10 bsod log file location

  2. 2. Hover over the Action menu, and then click the Create Custom View link.

    customview bsod log file location

  3. 3. Select a time range from the Logged dropdown menu when the BSoD happened, and tick the Error checkbox in the Event level section.

    error to how to check blue screen log

  4. 4. Select the Event logs menu, and tick the Windows Logs checkbox.

    windows logs

  5. 5. Once done, click on OK to proceed.

    Ok

  6. 6. Give the custom view a name, and then press OK. (The Event Viewer will now show the information based on the filters you applied.)

    bsod-ok bsod log file location

  7. 7. Sort the information by date using the Date and Time header.

    date-time-details bsod log file location

  8. 8. Look at the error events at the time of your last BSoD. For more details regarding the error, click on the Details tab.

    9. You can use Event Viewer to see a Blue Screen log file. Windows Event Viewer shows a log of application and system messages.

    This includes errors, information messages, and warnings, and it is a useful tool for troubleshooting all kinds of different Windows problems. So, if you were wondering how to see blue screen log, this is probably the most effective method.

You can view detailed BSOD entries through Event Viewer, and you can follow this guide to find BSOD logs in Event Viewer for a clearer look at the crash details.

2. Via the Control Panel

  1. Press Windows + S to open Search, type Control Panel in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.control panel
  2. Click on System and Security.system and security
  3. Next, choose System and Maintenance.system and maintenance on how to how to check blue screen log
  4. Click on Maintenance here, and then select View reliability history.view reliability history on how to check blue screen log
  5. Now, locate the red cross marks, since these are critical errors, including BSOD.error
  6. To view the log file, simply click on an event at the bottom.error log

Control Panel also allows you to view the critical errors encountered on the PC, and it’s slightly easier than Event Viewer, but not as detailed.

3. Use your Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type regedit, and then click OK.regedit-ok how to clean registry windows 10
  2. Paste the following path in the address bar and hit Enter: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\CrashControlpath to how to check blue screen log
  3. Right-click on the right side, hover the cursor over New, select DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it DisplayParameters.new-dword-crash bsod log file location
  4. Type 1 under Value data, and click OK to save the changes.modify
  5. Once done, restart the computer.

If you were unable to view the Blue Screen Event ID or other relevant information in the error log, making changes to the registry should fix things.

4. Use a third-party BSoD viewer

If all of the steps mentioned above seem too complicated, then you could make use of a third-party event viewer. These apps will usually do the exact same thing as the Windows Event Viewer, but with fewer steps.

The tool scans your systems for the BSoD crash file and returns the information in one single table, so you can easily analyze it. This way, you’ll easily see the cause of the event and the location.

5. Use Reliability Monitor

  • Press Windows + S, type Reliability Monitor, and select View reliability history.
  • Look for red X marks indicating system crashes.
  • Select the event to see details, including the stop code and failure type.

6. Check Windows Error Reporting (WER) Logs

  • Open File Explorer and go to: C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\WER\ReportArchive
  • Inside the folders, you’ll find text reports and crash details created during Blue Screen events.

To learn more about how Windows logs and stores these reports, check out what a CBS log file is and how it helps track system repair and update details.

7. Review Memory Dump Files

  • Navigate to: C:\Windows\Minidump
  • Open the .dmp files using WinDbg (from the Windows SDK) or simpler tools like BlueScreenView to analyze crash details.

8. Use PowerShell or Command Prompt

Run this PowerShell command to pull Blue Screen events:

Get-WinEvent -FilterHashtable @{LogName="System"; ProviderName="Microsoft-Windows-WER-SystemErrorReporting"} | Format-List -Property *

This retrieves BugCheck logs directly from the system event history.

9. Check the System Information Tool

  • Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter.
  • Expand Software Environment > Windows Error Reporting.
  • Review the crash data with bug check codes and error details.

Summary

There are several underlying causes that trigger a BSOD, and unless you know how to check the blue screen log, it will be difficult to fix things.

And now that you know it, find out the best tools to seamlessly fix BSOD errors in no time.

Did you ever encounter a Blue screen of Death error while using Windows? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

Fix: VT-X is Disabled in The BIOS for All CPU Modes

Posted on by Vlad Turiceanu

Trying to launch your Virtual Machine but stopped by VT-x is disabled in the BIOS for all CPU modes (verr_vmx_msr_all_vmx_disabled) warning on Windows 10? Don’t worry; we have got you covered.

This guide will discuss why the warning message appears and how we can fix it. Let’s start! 

Why is VT-X disabled in the BIOS for all CPU modes on Windows 10?

Reasons for this warning message coming up can be many. Some of the popular ones are:

  • Virtualization disabled – For a virtual machine to work, Virtualization Technology must be enabled from BIOS. If it is disabled,  the virtual machine won’t launch.
  • Your PC is not compatible with  VT-X / AMD-V – If your computer is old, it might not be able to support virtualization, and you won’t find VT-X / AMD-V.
  • Physical address extension – If PAE & NX are disabled, it could cause the issue. However, configuring the virtual machine to run with Physical Address Extension & NX can resolve it.
  • Third-party apps conflict – There could be chances that your antivirus conflicts with your virtual machine. To resolve this, you need to add the virtual machine as an exception or turn off real-time protection for a while.
  • Allocated RAM size is too low – If you have not allotted enough RAM, this could cause a problem.

What can I do if VT-X is disabled in the BIOS for all CPU modes on Windows 10?

Before performing the detailed troubleshooting steps, make sure you check these: 

If the issue persists, follow the methods mentioned below:

1. Check If your PC supports VT-X / AMD-V 

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to fire up Task Manager.
  2. Go to the Performance tab, and click CPU.CPU Virtualization Enabled
  3. Under the graph, if you see Virtualization: Enabled, then virtualization works on your computer.

2. Enable Virtualization in BIOS

  1. Press Windows + I to get Settings.
  2. Navigate to System, then Recovery.System-Recovery-Windows-11
  3. Go to Advanced Startup and click Restart Now.Recovery Advanced Startup
  4. On Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot.Choose an option - Troubleshoot
  5. Now click Advanced Options.Advanced options
  6. Click UEFI Firmware Settings and then select Restart.UEFI 2
  7. Now the screen will present options; choose the one to enter BIOS.
  8. Click Configuration, then Virtualization Technology, and select Enabled.Virtualization Technology
  9. Click on Exit and choose Save changes and Exit.

3. Enable Physical Address Extension in the Virtualbox

  1. Click on the virtual machine and click Settings.
  2. Go to System and click on the Processor tab.
  3. Put a checkmark on Enable PAE/NX.Virtualbox Enable PAE
  4. Click OK.

4. Increase RAM size

  1. Launch VirtualBox, and then locate the virtual machine in question.
  2. Go to Settings, then click System.
  3. Click the Motherboard tab, and move the slider to increase RAM for your virtual machine.RAM increase - vt-x is disabled in the bios for all cpu modes (verr_vmx_msr_all_vmx_disabled). windows 10
  4. Now, click OK.
  5. Restart your machine now.

5. Disable Real-time protection temporarily

  1. Press Windows + I to get Settings.
  2. Click Update & Security.Windows 10 Update & Security
  3. Select Windows Security and click Virus & threat protection.Windows Security Windows 10
  4. Now, click Manage settings.Manage Settings - Virus & threat protection
  5. Toggle off the switch under Real-time protection.Real-time protection Windows 10

So, these are some ways to fix VT-x is disabled in the BIOS for all CPU modes. Try them and let us know which worked for you in the comments below.

5 Best Amazon Echo Devices to Buy [Cyber Monday]

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

All Amazon Echo iterations are quite popular for a variety of reasons. Once you catch the drift, Alexa can be of much assistance in your everyday life for both you and your family.

We made sure to provide you with the best deals at this point in time, so make sure to check them out below.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What Echo device is best?

[wr_toc]

All-new Echo Dot (4th Gen)

  • Exquisite, compact design
  • Voice control
  • Allows to control your home
  • Protects your privacy
  • The buttons could be more attractive
Check price

It was only a question of time before the smart home speakers find their way into your car. All-new Echo Dot (4th Gen) Smart speaker with Alexa is a worthy car companion with 50k and more skills.

Once you set it up, every interaction is by voice, so the device is completely hands-free. Just ask Alexa to play the song on Spotify, call someone, or find the closest gas station and it’s done.

Echo Show 8

  • Call or message almost anyone hands-free.
  • Premium speakers
  • Keeps your privacy safe
  • Message cannot be taken off the screen
Check price

The top-of-the-line speaker, as far as Amazon speakers go. The most distinctive feature is the built-in Echo Show 8 which allows you easier control over all smart devices in your household.

Beyond that, the mere size of the device brings out better audio output.

If you don’t want to go for the Echo Spot or Echo Show Smart displays, these are the best of the speakers your money can buy.

Echo Flex

  • Smart home control
  • Easy to set up
  • Built-in USB port
  • The sound could be better
Check price

This small device will be great for home use in setting alarms, reminders, and timers, or connecting with other smart devices from your home.

You can plug it directly into an electrical outlet and just use it. It easily connects with Alexa, if you have the app downloaded. And if you do, setting up this device should not take more than a few minutes.

Echo Dot (3rd Gen)

  • Voice-controlled speaker powered by Alexa
  • Clear and loud sound for music streaming
  • Call or message people with nothing else but your voice commands
  • Co-operates with Smart Home devices so you can turn the lights, adjust the thermostat, or switch TV channels
  • Bluetooth and 3,5mm for connecting your speakers to amplify the audio output
  • Heather Gray, 3.9” x 3.9” x 1.7”
  • Customer service could be better
Check price

A fan-favorite smart speaker that has unlimited possibilities in regards to voice control now with a clearer sound and slicker design.

Combined with a few more smart devices, the Echo Dot makes your life much easier.

Echo (2nd Generation) International Version

  • Schedule meetings, call contacts via loudspeaker, set reminders, or control smart home devices.
  • Play music with one of the multiple supported streaming services.
  • Dual speakers with Dolby processing allow 360° omnidirectional audio.
  • Easy to connect with external speakers via Bluetooth or 3,5mm stereo cable.
  • Noice cancelation and 7 built-in mics
  • Does not come with an aux in
Check price

The standard Echo option and the most popular one. It has some valuable advantages over the Echo Dot, but it all falls to the speaker’s loudness.

Besides that, it brings all the usual jazz, with full access to Alexa and a few smart home devices your options are limitless. These options are great for when Alexa keeps stopping. It could mean your device has given out, and it’s time for a new one.

What smart Echo speaker is the best deal for you? Don’t forget to tell us in the comments section below.

Computer Screen is Black and White: 4 Ways to get Color Back

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

A good display is critical for an optimal Windows experience, and users often spend dearly on a high-quality monitor. But many reported that their computer screen turned black and white.

In a few cases, the change appeared when users inadvertently hit a couple of keys, which modified the display settings. But that’s not the only reason. So let’s find out why the computer screen is flashing black and white and the solutions for it.

Why is my screen suddenly black and white?

Here are some of the reasons the laptop display changed to black and white:

  • Incorrect display settings – In most cases, misconfigured display settings led to the problem. This is also the reason your TV’s HDMI connection results in a black and white screen.
  • A buggy update – Some users reported the issue after updating Windows, which pointed to either a buggy update or an automatic reconfiguration of settings.
  • Outdated or corrupt display drivers – Corrupt or outdated drivers are just as likely to cause the problem.
  • Hardware malfunction – If you have a malfunctioning display, it will lead to display issues in Windows.

What can I do if my computer screen is black and white?

Before we proceed to the solutions here, let’s try a few quick fixes that did the trick for most users:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Update Windows to the latest available version.
  • If you use a PC or an external display, make sure the connections are in order. Also, you may connect the external display to another computer to identify if the problem lies with it or the previous PC.
  • In case the problem appears after you install a new program that could modify the display or accessibility settings, uninstall the app right away.

If nothing so far worked, the solutions listed next would surely fix things when the computer screen goes black and white.

1. Disable color filters

  1. Press Windows + U to open the Accessibility settings, and click on Color filters.color filters
  2. If the toggle for Color filters is enabled, click on it to turn the setting Off.disable color filters to fix computer screen black and white
  3. Also, Windows + Ctrl + C can switch enable/disable the color filters. To disable the shortcut, simply turn off the toggle for Keyboard shortcut for color filters.disable shortcut

That’s it! For most users, this should fix things. But the computer screen is still black and white, so head to the next solution.

2. Disable high contrast settings

  1. Press Windows + U to open Accessibility settings, and choose Contrast themes.contrast themes
  2. Select None from the Contrast themes dropdown menu, and click Apply.none to fix computer screen black and white

3. Update the display drivers

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager
  2. Now, expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the active graphics card, and select Update driver.update driver to fix computer screen black and white
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers, and Windows will automatically identify and install the best available version.search automatically for drivers

In a few cases, the black and white computer screen monitor resulted from issues with the drivers, and updating the graphics driver fixed things like a charm. Unfortunately, though, in some cases, you must manually install the driver when Windows can’t look one up.

An alternative to the manual procedure is choosing dedicated software to help you automatically find the correct updates because of its regularly revised database.

⇒ Get Fortect Driver Updater

4. Reset Windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, and click on Recovery in the System tab.recovery to fix computer screen black and white
  2. Click on Reset PC under Recovery options.reset PC to fix computer screen black and white
  3. Please choose whether you want to keep personal files or remove them. The former makes more sense in a reset.reinstall option
  4. Now, click on Local reinstall.local reinstall
  5. Verify the reset settings, click Next, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.verify settings

Once Windows is reset, you won’t see black stripes on the computer screen. However, if the problem persists, the underlying cause is a hardware component, likely the display, and you will have to get it checked by a technician.

Also, find out how to configure the best FPS settings in Windows and increase the VRAM for improved gaming performance. We also have some confirmed solutions in case you experience a black and white screen when connecting the PC to a TV with HDMI.

Did any of these solutions help? Let us know by leaving a comment in the section below.

BlueStacks Not Installing: 6 Ways to Get it Working Again

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

BlueStacks is one of the best emulators for Windows and allows users to run apps developed for Android. However, many reported that BlueStacks is not installing, a problem that’s affected a large bunch of users.

In many cases, the installer thew the message, There was an error while trying to download BlueStacks. However, the problem is usually easily fixable, and we will walk you through the solutions that work for others.

Why is BlueStacks 5 not installing on my PC?

Here are the most common reasons BlueStacks is not installing properly:

  • Compatibility issues – If your PC doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for BlueStacks, it will lead to trouble installing the app.
  • Apps conflicting with the installation – Several third-party apps can conflict with the installation of BlueStacks, and the setup would, as a result, throw errors.
  • Critical features not enabled – BlueStacks requires Virtualization support, and if the feature is not enabled, it won’t install.

What can I do if BlueStacks is not installing?

Before we head to the slightly complex solutions when BlueStacks is not installing, let’s first try a few quick ones:

  • Make sure your computer fulfills the minimum requirements for BlueStacks. It would be even better if the PC matches the recommended requirements.
  • Restart the computer and then try installing BlueStacks.
  • Disable any third-party antivirus or other security software installed on the computer. If that works, we recommend you switch to a friendlier antivirus.
  • Check your connection and make sure you are suffering from a slow Internet speed.

If none of these work, head to the solutions listed next.

1. Delete the current installer and download a fresh one

  1. Navigate to the location where the installer is stored, select it, and hit Del.installer
  2. Choose the appropriate response in case a confirmation prompt pops up.
  3. Now, go to BlueStacks’ official website, and download the installer.download to fix bluestacks not installing
  4. Once done, launch the setup and proceed with the installation.installer

There were cases when the downloaded installer itself was corrupt, and BlueStacks was not installing as a result. Simply clearing the temporary files and getting a new installer should fix things.

2. Try a different emulator

If you’re having issues installing BlueStacks, perhaps a different Android emulator might be a good choice. LDPlayer is a great alternative to BlueStacks since it’s completely optimized for gaming.

With this emulator, you can enjoy in Android games with your keyboard and mouse. The software supports multitasking, so you can have multiple games open at the same time.

There’s also multi-instance sync, allowing you to control multiple games simultaneously. Of course, the software offers a great FPS and lag-free experience, so you can enjoy in gaming without stuttering.

LDPlayer is a great Android emulator, and if you’re having issues with BlueStacks, be sure to try it out.

Other great features:

  • Simple to use
  • Support for keyboard and mouse
  • A wide array of supported games and apps
  • Support for macros
  • Multitasking support

⇒ Get LDPlayer

3. Get the offline installer

  1. Download the BlueStacks’ offline installer.
  2. Navigate to the location the installer is downloaded, type cmd in the address bar, and then hit Enter.cmd
  3. Now, paste either of the two commands to get the relevant version of BlueStacks and hit Enter:
    • Nougat – BlueStacksFullInstaller_5.9.410.1001_amd64_native.exe --defaultImageName Nougat64 --imageToLaunch Nougat64 --defaultImageName Nougat64 --imageToLaunch Nougat64
    • Pie – BlueStacksFullInstaller_5.9.410.1001_amd64_native.exe --defaultImageName Nougat64 --imageToLaunch Nougat64 --defaultImageName Pie64 --imageToLaunch Pie64command to fix bluestacks not installing
  4. Once done, wait for the installation to complete.installer

4. Use the dedicated uninstaller

  1. Download the BlueStacks Cleaner tool.
  2. Now, press Windows + R to open Run, type %temp% in the text field, and hit Enter.temp folder
  3. Press Ctrl + A to select all the files here, and then hit Del.delete temporary files to fix bluestacks not installing
  4. Now, launch the BlueStacks Cleaner tool that you downloaded.cleaner tool to fix bluestacks not installing
  5. Click Yes in case a UAC prompt appears.
  6. Once you see the Process has been finished message, get the BlueStacks installer from the official website, and try installing it.uninstallation complete

This method works when BlueStacks claims that a version of it is already present on the computer and is subsequently not installing when you try. Alternatively, you could use a third-party uninstaller tool for the job.

5. Run the installer in compatibility mode

  1. Navigate to the folder where the BlueStacks installer is stored, right-click on it, and select Properties.bluestacks
  2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab, tick the checkbox for Run this program in compatibility mode for, choose an earlier iteration of Windows from the dropdown menu, and click on OK to save the changes.compatibility mode to fix bluestacks not installing
  3. Now, try running the setup and installing BlueStacks.

Running the installer in compatibility mode can fix things when BlueStacks is not working or installing in Windows.

It can also help you fix issues like error code 2004 on BlueStacks. To learn more about the error and what causes it, read this guide.

6. Update the graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc, and then hit Enter.device manager
  2. Expand Display adapters, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.update driver to fix bluestacks not installing
  3. Click on Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to install the best available one on the PC.search automatically for drivers

In many cases, updating the graphics driver did the trick when BlueStacks was not installed in Windows. Sometimes, Windows won’t be able to find a better version, and that’s when manually updating the driver comes into the picture.

Alternatively, you can use driver updater software to update all the drivers simultaneously!

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

The problem should be resolved by now, and BlueStacks should be up and running the way it should. Though some users reported that BlueStacks is stuck on loading, that, too, is easily fixable.

If you have any queries or fixed things using a different solution, drop them in the comments section below.

How to Fix League Of Legends DirectX Errors (4 Ways)

Posted on by Matthew Adams

A few players have experienced DirectX problems in League of Legends. So let us address it in this guide.

League of Legends (LoL) is an enthralling multiplayer battle arena game for Windows 10. However, some players can’t start LoL when a DirectX error message pops up. The LoL DirectX error message states:

An unknown DirectX error has occurred and League of Legends cannot start. Please make sure your video card is using the latest video drivers from the manufacturer.

This is how you can fix the League of Legends DirectX error if that same error message pops up on your Windows desktop or laptop.

Table of contents

What causes DirectX errors in League of Legends?

There are a few causes for this error. First, from user experiences, we gather that the top triggers include the following:

  • Driver issues – If the graphics card driver is outdated, corrupted, or bad, it may trigger this error.
  • Antivirus issues – These, in many cases, are compatibility issues that make the antivirus block the game from starting up.
  • Issues with .Net Framework – Microsoft NET Framework is an essential prerequisite for DirectX, so you might need to repair your NET Framework setup.

These are the leading causes to look out for. That said, let us discuss some of the better solutions.

How can I fix DirectX errors in League of Legends?

1. Delete the Game.cfg File

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the following path:
    C:/Riot Games/League of Legends/Config
  3. Alternatively, right-click your League of Legends shortcut and select Open file location.
    directx league of legends
  4. After, right-click the game.cfg file in the Config subfolder.
  5. Then, click Delete.

Some League of Legends players has fixed the DirectX error by deleting the game.cfg file. That’s a straightforward resolution that is worth a shot.

Another reader deleted the Config folder, and the game worked perfectly fine. However, it would be best to delete only the game.cfg file.

2. Update your graphics card driver

2.1 Manually upgrade the driver

  1. Press Windows Key + X on your keyboard to open the Power User menu and select Device Manager from the list.
    directx league of legends
  2. When Device Manager opens, expand your Display adapters, locate the driver you want to update, right-click it and choose Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers and let Windows 10 download the appropriate driver.

The LoL error message suggests that your video card uses the manufacturer’s latest video drivers. So, that’s a pretty big clue for a potential fix!

2.2 Update your drivers automatically

If you don’t want to spend time and search for the GPU drivers yourself, you can use a dedicated third-party tool that does that for you.

Our top recommendation that’s easy to use and uses very few resources is Fortect Driver Updater.

3. Delete the League of Legends subfiles

  1. First, open the game’s Config folder by entering the following in File Explorer’s folder path bar: C:Riot/Games/League of Legends/Config
  2. Select the game.cfg and input files in the Config subfolder, and delete them.
    directx league of legends
  3. Then open the RADS subfolder within the League of Legends subfolder, select the lol_game_client and lol_game_client_en_us subfolders, and then delete them.
  4. Open the League of Legends launch window, and click the ? button to open a Help window that includes four options.
    directx league of legends
  5. Press the Repair button on the Help window to fix corrupt files.

Some LoL players have fixed the DirectX error by deleting a few subfiles and subfolders and then running a repair with the game’s Repair option.

4. Repair the NET Framework

  1. Download the NET Framework Repair Tool.
  2. Open the NET Framework Repair Tool and press Next to apply the recommendations.
  3. Alternatively, you can also uninstall your NET Framework and reinstall it.

Those resolutions for the DirectX error will probably kick-start League of Legends so you can play the game again.

We encourage you to give us some feedback in the comment section below.

5 Best GoPro Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals to Get Now

Posted on by Teodor Nechita

GoPros are amazing high-quality cameras used by everyone nowadays. They are small and can be attached to helmets, vests, and other equipment. This way, you can record your journeys and activities without worrying about holding cameras.

The cameras on our phones are decent, but they don’t offer the same quality and features as action cameras. If you want to record any kind of video, you need a GoPro.

The best time to buy a brand new camera is during sales when you will find all kinds of different GoPros to choose from. We will help you with an informative list of the best deals available on Amazon.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

Which is the best GoPro on a budget?

AKASO EK7000

  • 4K videos at 25FPS,
  • 2.7K videos at 30FPS, 1080p videos at 60FPS
  • 12MP photos
  • Built-in Wi-Fi with up to 10 meters range, and an HDMI port
  • Each battery lasts up to 90 mins recording in 1080p or 60 mins recording in 4K/2K
  • Waterproof case that can withstand pressure up to 98FT/30M
  • No image stabilization
Check price

The best budget choice on our list is AKASO EK7000. The camera has everything you need for amateur video shots, on both 4k and 1080p resolutions. Moreover, it comes with a bundle of accessories, such as a bicycle stand, waterproof case, battery, camera mount, and a lens cloth.

The camera also comes with a handy remote control that can take pictures and start/stop the video recording from a distance. You can also strap the remote to your wrists for easy access.

In conclusion, this product is the best choice for those who are just starting out with video recording. It is one of the cheaper GoPros out there. If you are just an amateur looking for a camera to casually record your life, the AKASO EK7000 is more than enough.

GoPro HERO9 Black

  • 20MP plus SuperPhoto, with improved HDR and RAW photo capture
  • Up to 8x Slow-motion and image stabilization with HyperSmooth 3.0
  • Fully functional front screen and touch-enabled rear screen
  • 5k video capturing at 30FPS
  • 4K/2K video capturing at 60FPS
  • 1080p video capturing at 60FPS
  • Camera mods need to be bought separately
Check price

The GoPro HERO9 Black is the best action camera on the market. It brings customization to another level with its foldable mounting fingers which allow you to swap mounts quickly.

Take selfies easier now using the improved and larger front display. Furthermore, the camera comes with HyperSmooth 3.0, which offers incredible and customizable image stabilization. The digital lenses allow you to toggle between different picture modes and TimeWrap 3.0 allows for slow-motion recording.

You can Livestream in 1080p on social media thanks to HyperStabilization. The camera also has a 3.5mm microphone adapter in case you want to connect a high-quality microphone.

AKASO V50 Elite

  • Records 4K at 60/30FPS, 2.7K at 60/30FPS, and 1080p at 120FPS
  • Can take up to 20MP pictures
  • Built-in advanced Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)
  • Optional view angles such as Wide, Medium, and Narrow
  • Waterproof camera case up to 131FT/40M
  • Camera quality decreases in low light
Check price

AKASO V50 Elite is another great choice for the amount of money you spend since it comes with the same accessories as the previous, budget-oriented AKASO action camera. In addition, the remote control can be activated by voice.

The camera‘s case is made out of rubber-like plastic and it has one screen on the back that has excellent viewing angles. In addition, the screen is really bright so you can see clearly even when exposed to intense sunlight.

There are many action cameras on the market, and trying to find the best one for you can get quite frustrating.

The previously mentioned cameras should be diverse enough in price and features to help you make de right decision.

Don’t hesitate to share your suggestions or personal experiences with us by using the comment section below.

Adblock Not Working On Twitch: Solved

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Many Windows 10 users reported getting ads on Twitch even with Adblock. Even if this is an unusual problem, it seems like several users are sometimes facing it.

You should first remember that you can use AdBlock to stop ads on Twitch and similar video streaming sites.

If your AdBlock is not working on Twitch, make sure you read this guide completely and discover the best solutions to fix it.

Before getting into our main subject, let’s have a look at some reasons why you should definitely use an ad-blocker for Twitch.

Why doesn’t AdBlock work on Twitch?

If your AdBlock doesn’t work on Twitch, it’s possible that your extension is out of date, and it needs to be updated in order to work, or maybe you need to use a different ad block extension.

Modifying certain hidden settings of your browser can help you with this and many other problems on Twitch.

Do ad blockers still work on Twitch?

Yes, ad blockers do work on Twitch, but some might be more efficient than others. If your current one doesn’t work, be sure to update it.

Alternatively, you can switch to a different ad block extension and check if it works. Keep in mind that this issue affects all browsers, and users reported that Adblock is not working on Twitch in Firefox and Chrome alike.

Why should I use an ad-blocker for Twitch?

Twitch is notorious for serving a lot of ads, and if a viewer experiences a long ad break, there are reports of them being served up to 9 adverts in a row.

Users consider this a total nightmare. In some countries, the same ad will play repeatedly at regular intervals – literally driving them mad.

So, using an efficient ad-blocker for Twitch will definitely let you enjoy a complete experience, without being bothered by external notifications while streaming.

Now, let’s see what you can do if AdBlock can not stop ads on Twitch.

How can I fix the Twitch AdBlock not working?

1. Try a different browser

One way to deal with this issue is to try out a different browser. Unlike many other options on the market, Opera GX comes with a built-in ad-blocker, so it will block all ads, even the ones on Twitch.

We should mention that this browser is built on Chromium, so all extensions that you use in Chrome will work in Opera GX as well.

In addition, there’s a malware scanner so you’ll be warned if you visit a malicious website or if you download a malicious file.

If you’re looking for a browser that is focused heavily on making your life as a gamer and a fan of streaming a whole lot easier, then Opera GX is the web browser for you.

In addition, if you choose to use it, you won’t have to worry again about not being able to stop ads on Twitch with AdBlocker.

Check out some other Opera GX great features:

  • Free VPN
  • Dedicated to streaming apps
  • Safe and easy to use
  • CPU, RAM, and Network limiters

Opera GX

A built-in VPN, an adblocker, network limiters, and the power to control RAM use for lag-free browsing.
Free Visit website

2. Update your Adblock extensions

  1. 1. Hit the Windows key, type your browser’s name, then open the first result (In this case, we’re giving the Chrome example).

    twitch-wont-load-chrome

  2. 2. Now, click on the 3 vertical dots from the right-top corner of the window to open the Chrome General menu.

    go to settings chrome

  3. 3. Hover the mouse over More tools, then click on Extensions.

    go to extensions chrome

  4. 4. From the right-top corner of the page, tick the Developer mode check box to enable this function.

    enable developer mode

  5. 5. Click on the Update button.

    update chrome extensions

  6. 6. Restart your browser and check if the problem is still there.

    7. You should know that browser extensions usually update themselves just fine as new versions are released.

    However, if your AdBlock isn’t working on Twitch, making sure it’s up-to-date is a good first step in troubleshooting.

    After doing that check if the Twitch Adblock in Chrome is working.

3. Change advanced settings

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Chrome, then open the first result.
  2. In the address bar enter this line: chrome://flags/#network-service
  3. Type Enable network logging to file in the search box, then set it to Disabled.
  4. Restart Chrome and check if the problem is resolved.

4. Try Alternate Player for Twitch.TV

  1. If you have problems with ads on Twitch try using Alternate Player for Twitch.TV extension.
  2. Download the extension from the following links:

What are the best AdBlockers for Twitch?

1. TTV LOL

TTV LOL is a popular Ad-Block for Twitch, that many people on Reddit recommend. You can get it for Firefox or Chrome. It is extremely popular, being downloaded over 30,000 times, and has 4.2 stars in Chrome Store.

It is designed to block Livestream ads without affecting video quality and without causing the purple screen of death.

A reliable Ad-Block that seems to be working excellently for the time being, and that I can highly recommend to any Twitch user. 

2. Video ad-block

This is another popular ad block that is designed to remove pesky ads on Twitch. It is also available for both Chrome and Firefox.

It works by replacing ads with a low-quality stream (between 1080p and 480p) for the duration of the ads, before switching you back onto the high-quality stream (when the ad is over).  

3. Purple Ads Blocker

Purple Ad-block is recommended for Twitch users by several experts, being available both for Chrome and Firefox.

It works by proxying M3U8 playlist files from Twitch to provide a server-side signature that allows videos to play without ads. It only works on the official Twitch website, so do not try it on alternate sites. 

4. TTV AdEraser

TTV AdEraser promises not only to remove ads but also to improve your twitch experience by giving you some extra features (such as hovering over channel icons to preview a stream). It works by playing Twitch videos through a custom embedded player.

Twitch Adblock Opera, Opera GX Twitch Adblock

Opera and Opera GX have built-in ad blockers, so they can easily block ads on Twitch. Just enable this option from the settings and you’re good to go.

If you encounter any issues, you can always use third-party Adblock extensions on Opera. You can even use Chrome extensions since the browser is based on the Chromium engine.

There you go, four simple solutions that might help you if you’re still getting ads on Twitch. In most cases, you just need to update your extensions and you’re good to go.

Keep in mind that this isn’t the only problem that you can encounter, and many reported Twitch network error 2000, but we already covered it in a separate guide.

Twitch error 3000 is another common playback issue that you can encounter, but we already tackled it in a separate guide.

Besides Adblock, BetterTTV for Firefox is another must-have extensions for Twitch, so don’t miss it.

If you found our solutions helpful for fixing the AdBlock not working on Twitch issue, let us know in the comments section below.

VirtualBox Won’t Show 64-bit: How to Fix It in 5 Steps?

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Wondering why Virtualbox is not showing a 64-bit option when creating a new virtual machine? Well, there could be several reasons for the same. 

In this guide, we will discuss the potential reasons along with the fixes to resolve the problem.

What causes VirtualBox won’t show 64-bit guest OS in Windows?

Spotting the exact reason the issue is occurring can be difficult, as there can be several reasons. However, we have listed some of the popular ones here: 

  • Virtualization Disabled – If Virtualization is disabled from the BIOS utility, the issue can occur.
  • Hyper V – Hyper V is a  hardware virtualization product that allows you to create a virtual machine. However, it could conflict with VirtualBox and hence the issue. It needs to be disabled.
  • Core Isolation – Core Isolation protects against viruses and attacks by separating computer processes from your OS and device. However, this could cause problems in running a virtual machine. Therefore, it needs to be disabled.
  • VM platforms  – If you have another VM software on your PC, conflict could arise when using resources, causing the problem.
  • Device Guard and Credential Guard– Apps like Device Guard provide hardware security and only let those apps run, defined in Windows code integrity policies. This can also cause problems. 

How can I fix VirtualBox won’t show 64-bit?

Before moving to the detailed troubleshooting steps, make sure you try these quick fixes:

  • Ensure your computer supports x64 bit.
  • Uninstall and reinstall Oracle VirtualBox.
  • Make sure you are using the latest version of VirtualBox.
  • Restart your computer
  • Make sure you have Microsoft C++ 2019 Redistributable package installed.

1. Disable Hyper V

  1. Press Windows + R to open the  Run command window.Windows Features
  2. Type optionalfeatures.exe and press Enter to open the Windows Features window.
  3. Locate and remove the checkmark beside Hyper V and click OK.Windows Features Hyper V
  4. Restart your PC.

2. Enable Intel Virtualization Technology

  1. Press Windows + I to get Settings.
  2. Go to System, then click Recovery.System - Recovery Windows 11
  3. Now locate Advanced Startup and click Restart Now.Recovery Advanced Startup -Virtualbox won't show 64 bit
  4. On Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot.Choose an option - Troubleshoot
  5. Now select Advanced Options.Advanced options
  6. Select UEFI Firmware Settings and click Restart.UEFI 2
  7. Now the screen will present options; choose the one to enter BIOS.
  8. Click Configuration, then Virtualization Technology, and mark it Enabled.Virtualization
  9. Go to the Exit menu and choose Save changes and Exit.

Note: For AMD processors, ensure AMD SVM(Secure Virtual Machine) is enabled.

3. Disable Core Isolation

  1. Press Windows + I to get Settings.Privacy & Security - Windows Security
  2. Go to Privacy & Settings, then click Windows Security.
  3. Click Open Windows Security.Windows Security Open
  4. Go to Device Security, then Core isolation, and click on Core isolation details.Device Security - Core isolation
  5. Toggle off the switch under Memory Integrity. Core Integrity
  6. Restart your PC.

4. Disable Device Guard & Credential Guard

4.1 Use Group Policy Editor to disable Device Guard 

  1. Press Windows + R to get the Run window. GPEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter. 
  3. Copy and paste the following path: Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\System\Device GuardTurn On Virtualization Based Security
  4. Double-click on Turn On Virtualization Based Security and set it as Disabled. Disabled
  5. Click Apply and then OK. 

4.2 Use Registry Editor & Command Prompt to Disable Credential Guard

  1. Press Windows + R to get the Run window. REGEDIT RUN COMMAND
  2. Type Regedit and hit Enter.
  3. Copy and paste these paths one by one in the address bar—Right-click on LsaCfgFlags, EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity, and RequirePlatformSecurityFeatures keys and select Delete. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\LSA\LsaCfgFlags HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DeviceGuard\EnableVirtualizationBasedSecurity HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DeviceGuard\RequirePlatformSecurityFeatures
  4. Now, press the Windows key, type CMD, and click Run as administrator.DOS COmmand Prompt
  5. Copy and paste these commands mentioned below one by one and press Enter after every command mountvol X: /s copy %WINDIR%\System32\SecConfig.efi X:\EFI\Microsoft\Boot\SecConfig.efi /Y bcdedit /create {0cb3b571-2f2e-4343-a879-d86a476d7215} /d "DebugTool" /application osloader bcdedit /set {0cb3b571-2f2e-4343-a879-d86a476d7215} path "\EFI\Microsoft\Boot\SecConfig.efi" bcdedit /set {bootmgr} bootsequence {0cb3b571-2f2e-4343-a879-d86a476d7215} bcdedit /set {0cb3b571-2f2e-4343-a879-d86a476d7215} loadoptions DISABLE-LSA-ISO bcdedit /set {0cb3b571-2f2e-4343-a879-d86a476d7215} device partition=X: mountvol X: /d
  6. Click Yes to the UAC prompt asking to disable Windows Defender Credential Guard.
  7. Restart your computer.

5. Uninstall other VM apps

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.APPWIZ RUN COMMAND
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter.
  3. Go to the installed apps, select other VM apps, and click Uninstall.Uninstall Apps
  4. Restart your PC.

So, these steps you need to follow to resolve VirtualBox won’t show 64-bit. Try them and let us know which methods worked for you in the comments section below.

5 Best Mini Laptops On Sale

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

If you’re in the market for a new laptop for school or for your business, Cyber Monday may be the ideal time of the year to get the best bargains on laptop computers. This year, perhaps more than any other, you need to react fast!

While the majority of individuals are required to transport bulky and huge personal computers, you could use a mini laptop to take advantage of the extra space while still getting your work done.

Wouldn’t it be convenient to have all of your programs and documents in one little, portable device that you could carry with you everywhere you go?

This appears to be one of the most sought-after pieces this season, so you may want to act quickly and get your hands on one while the offer is still available.

Allow us to begin by looking at some of the irresistible deals that are currently on the market.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What is the best mini laptop brand?

All these items have special prices.

Aside from the obvious reason that you can take it with you wherever you go and that it is already on sale at a discounted price, they come with incredible features that you simply cannot afford to miss out on.

This type of computer is becoming increasingly popular for both recreational and professional applications. For the most part, unlike other compact electronic devices, such as netbooks or tablets, the micro laptop does not lose computational capability in the pursuit of portability.

Most mini-computers won’t take up much more space than a business folio or an academic binder, which is ideal for traveling.

Additionally, they are extremely efficient despite their small size. Depending on how you use them, a fully charged battery can last anywhere from 7 to 12 hours.

Many of them come with fast-charge cables, which allow you to recharge the battery in less than an hour.

Plus, they can function as a hybrid tablet and laptop, with smooth touchscreen surfaces, writing pens and accessories, multiple folding configurations, and removable keyboards. Don’t write off their size as a result of a lack of functionality.

Have you already bought a mini laptop? If not, don’t miss out!

Volume Button Not Working on Windows 10: Solved

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Sound problems are common in almost every version of Windows, including Windows 10 and 11. But this time, we have something a little different. It turns out that the Windows 10 volume control is not working from the Taskbar.

Some users reported online that they cannot open the Sound Control bar from the Taskbar in Windows 10, so we prepared a couple of solutions for this issue to help everyone who’s facing this problem.

What problems related to volume control can appear on Windows 10?

Sometimes issues with sound and the taskbar volume icon can occur. Speaking of cases, these are some of the problems that we’ll address in this article:

  • Taskbar volume icon won’t open – One common problem you can experience is the inability to open the controls. This is a common problem, but you should be able to fix it with one of our solutions.
  • Windows 10 volume slider not working – Several users reported that they could not adjust their volume. According to them, their volume slider isn’t working at all.
  • Volume mixer won’t open Windows 10 – Another common problem that can appear on Windows 10. This is an annoying problem since you won’t be able to adjust your audio volume at all.
  • Volume icon not working Windows 10 – Many Windows 10 users reported that their volume icon isn’t working. Due to this problem, you’ll have to use your speaker knob to change the volume.
  • Keyboard volume control not working Windows 10 – Many keyboards allow you to control your volume using dedicated volume buttons. However, users reported that volume control buttons aren’t working for them.
  • The volume icon is not showing in Taskbar – This is another common problem with Volume Control. Fortunately, this isn’t a serious error, and you should be able to fix it with one of our solutions.
  • The volume control program is not installed – Certain audio devices require dedicated software to control your volume. If the software is missing, you might get this error message.
  • Taskbar volume icon greyed out Windows 10 – Several users reported that the Volume Control icon is grayed out. This can be an annoying problem; in most cases, it’s caused by your audio drivers.

Why is my volume button not working on Windows 10?

You will find multiple user reports where users have claimed they cannot launch volume control via the taskbar.

We dug up the internet and created a list of reasons, some of the most common causes that trigger this problem on Windows 10 PC.

  • The volume control may fail to open intermittently because of a faulty process.
  • There are chances that some important system file is missing or got corrupted.
  • The SndVol.exe process is experiencing some issues.
  • Due to some reason, the Windows Audio service isn’t working.
  • There might be some hardware or software-related issues with your sound card.
  • The sound driver is outdated.

Now that you know the common reasons preventing volume control from opening from the taskbar in Windows 10 let us check out the solutions.

Why is my volume slider on the Taskbar not working?

If your Taskbar volume control is not working, it might due to some glitches with the Audio Service. Restarting this service should fix the issue in this case.

Another known cause of the problem is an outdated sound driver. Updating or reinstalling your drivers should restore normalcy. We will show you how to do all these in detail in the ensuing section of this guide.

How can I fix the Windows 10 volume control not working?

1. Install new Sound Drivers

  1. Right-click the speaker icon in your taskbar, and go to Playback devices.
    Volume Control won't open playback devices
  2. Double-click on your default playback device.
    Windows 10 volume slider not working speakers sound settings
  3. Under Controller information, click Properties.
    Volume mixer won't open Windows 10 default playback device properties
  4. Now, go to Change Settings, and go to the Driver tab.
    Volume icon not working Windows 10 default playback device audio driver
  5. Click on Update Driver. If the sound driver is unavailable, search online for the appropriate driver for your sound card, and install it.
  6. Restart your computer.

This solution only applies if, besides dysfunctional Sound Control, you also can’t hear any sound from your computer. If that’s the case, the sound driver is probably missing or corrupted.

1.1 Update your drivers automatically

Issues with your audio devices most often stem from problems with their respective drivers, either because they are broken, outdated, or missing altogether, in which case you need to do something.

Although manually updating them is a choice, it takes time, and there is a high chance you end up installing the wrong driver or one that isn’t the latest. That is when an excellent third-party tool can become helpful.

2. Reset the Audio Service

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type services.msc, and open Services.
    Keyboard volume control not working Windows 10 open Services
  3. Locate Windows Audio, right-click on it, and go to Properties.
    Volume Control is not showing in Taskbar windows audio service properties
  4. First, make sure that the Startup type is set to Automatic.
    Volume Control program is not installed set Windows Audio Properties Startup type to Automatic
  5. Then, click on Stop, and wait for the process to stop.
    Volume Control greyed out Windows 10 stop Windows Audio service temporarily
  6. Now, click Start again.
    Volume Control won't open start Windows Audio service
  7. Restart your computer, and check if the issue is resolved.

Some users who experienced this issue in previous versions of Windows told us that simply restarting the audio service does the trick, so that’s what we’re going to do here. To restart your Audio service, do the following:

3. Use a third-party audio enhancer

Another way to access your audio’s volume is using a substitute for volume control. Therefore, we present great sound-enhancing software that can do it, with many other capabilities.

Those apps enhance all the audio from your PC, including movies, music, recordings, game sounds, random systems sounds and alerts, and audio.

We’re talking about a good revolution here, with tremendous and feature-rich audio enhancer software. You won’t hear the same after using any of it. The volume control and other features are easy to use and accessible and can surprise you.

4. Perform an SFC scan

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Type Command Prompt and open it as an administrator.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc/scannow
  4. The SFC scan will now start.
  5. The scan can take 10-15 minutes, so don’t interrupt it.

If the taskbar volume icon is not working, you might be able to fix it by performing an SFC scan. Sometimes your files might get corrupted, preventing the volume icon from working correctly.

After the SFC scan is finished, your files will be repaired, and the taskbar volume icon should start working again.

5. Run Hardware and Devices troubleshooter

  1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on Update & security.
  3. Select Troubleshoot from the menu on the left. In the right pane, select Hardware and Devices
  4. Click the Run the troubleshooter button.
  5. The troubleshooter will now start and check for problems.

Sometimes you can fix this problem simply by running a Hardware and Devices troubleshooter. For example, if the volume icon on the taskbar is not working, you might be able to fix it by following these steps:

After the troubleshooter is finished, check if the problem still appears.

6. Reinstall audio drivers

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Select Device Manager.
  3. Right-click on your sound device.
  4. Choose Uninstall device from the menu.
    Keyboard volume control not working Windows 10 uninstall audio device
  5. Click on the Uninstall button to remove it.
    Volume Control is not showing in Taskbar uninstall audio device

Sometimes the taskbar volume icon isn’t working due to your drivers. Your drivers can become corrupted; the best way to fix them is to reinstall them.

Users suggest uninstalling the Speaker Audio device from the Audio inputs and outputs section and your audio device from the Sound, video, and game controllers section.

After that, you can click on Scan for hardware changes icon or restart your PC to reinstall the drivers. Once your drivers are reinstalled, the problems with the taskbar volume icon should be resolved entirely.

7. Check if your Audio Manager is enabled

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to start Task Manager.
  2. Switch to the Startup tab.
  3. Look for Audio Manager on the list.
  4. Right-click it and choose Enable from the menu.
    Volume Control greyed out Windows 10 enable startup
  5. Restart your PC.

Sometimes you might experience problems with audio because your driver software isn’t running. For example, if the taskbar volume icon is not working on your PC, you might want to check if your Audio Manager is enabled.

Once your PC restarts, check if the issue still appears. Remember that some audio devices don’t require Audio Manager to work, so if you can’t find Audio Manager on the list, this solution doesn’t apply to you.

8. End the SndVol.exe process

  1. Open Task Manager.
  2. Locate SndVol.exe or Volume Mixer.
  3. Right-click it and choose End Task.
    Volume Control won't open end task in task manager
  4. Close Task Manager.

Many users reported that the SndVol.exe process could cause the issue. However, if the volume icon is not working on your PC, you might be able to solve the problem simply by ending the SndVol.exe process.

After ending the complex process, the issue should be resolved, and Volume Control will start working. However, remember this is just a workaround, so you’ll have to repeat it whenever this issue occurs.

9. Change the font size

  1. Press the Win + I buttons to open the Settings app.
  2. Navigate to the System section.
    Windows 10 volume slider not working system settings
  3. Set Change the text, apps and other items’ size to any other value.
    Volume mixer won't open Windows 10 change scaling
  4. Now you just have to log off and log back into your account.

According to users, this problem can appear due to your text size. However, your taskbar volume icon should start working again after applying the solution. Then, repeat the same steps and change the text size to the original value.

10. Disable or uninstall your antivirus

Many users reported that their antivirus software caused this issue. To fix the problem, you need to disable or uninstall your antivirus. If disabling the antivirus doesn’t help, you might have to uninstall it.

The best way to do that is to download a dedicated uninstaller tool and use it to remove your antivirus altogether.

Those specialized remover toolkits make uninstalling your software a piece of the cake. In addition, you will no longer need to search and uninstall the program through the Control Panel because the app will find and list every program you have.

In addition, it will ensure there are no leftover files that will clog your computer for no reason. Finally, you’ll be left with no program traces after the uninstallation, thus completely removing it from your computer.

After removing the antivirus, check if the issue is resolved. Many users reported that this problem was caused by Norton antivirus, but other antivirus tools can also cause this issue.

11. Restart the Windows Explorer process

  1. Open Task Manager.
  2. Locate Windows Explorer.
  3. Right-click and choose Restart from the menu.
    Volume icon not working Windows 10 restart windows explorer

If the taskbar volume icon is still unavailable, you might be able to fix it with this workaround. According to users, you can fix this problem simply by restarting Windows Explorer.

After Windows Explorer restarts, the problem should be resolved. However, remember that this is just a workaround, so if the problem reappears, you’ll have to repeat this solution.

Bonus: Windows 10 volume control is not working for headphones

While the volume control icon not working can affect everything sound-related, a few users reported this issue only affected their headphones.

If that’s also your case, you might want to try these troubleshooting steps to isolate the issue. Here it goes!

  1. First, you need to ensure that your headphones are enabled on your PC.
  2. To do that, open the Settings app.
  3. Go to System and Sound.
  4. Click the Manage sound devices link in the Sound Settings panel.
  5. Next, have a look at the Disabled section. If your headphones are listed here, select the entry and click Enable.
  6. You might also want to check that the Bluetooth service is running.
  7. Press Win + R to open the Run dialogue.
  8. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  9. Locate the Bluetooth Support service and press Start if it is not currently set as such.

What can I do if the volume control is not working on Windows 11?

1. Disable audio enhancements

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Select System from the left side.
  3. Click on Sound.
  4. Click More sound settings.
  5. Select your primary audio device and click Properties.
  6. Go to the Enhancements tab.
  7. Check the Disable all enhancements option.
  8. Click Apply, then OK.

2. Run the audio troubleshooter

  1. Press the Start button.
  2. Open the Settings app.
  3. Select Troubleshoot on the System tab.Windows update high CPU
  4. Select Other troubleshooters.
  5. Click the Run button for the Play Audio troubleshooter.
  6. After that, wait for the Play Audio troubleshooter that opens to detect and fix issues. Then, apply any potential resolutions it might suggest.

For more solutions on the volume control not working on Windows 11, you can check out our dedicated guide to help you resolve the problem.

How do I get the volume buttons to work on my laptop?

1. Enable HID

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for services and open them.
  3. Locate Human Interface Device service.
  4. Right-click on it and select Properties.
  5. Select the Startup type to Automatic.
  6. Click Start.
  7. Press Apply and OK.

2. Reinstall the keyboard driver

  1. Open Device manager.
  2. Expand the Keyboards section.
  3. Right-click on your keyboard and select Uninstall device.
  4. Right-click on the Keybaord section.
  5. Select Scan hardware for changes.

That’s about it; we hope these solutions helped you to solve the Windows 10 volume slider issue.

While the long list of solutions might discourage some users from trying to fix this problem by themselves, rest assured that the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

We’re sure you’ll manage to the volume button not working in Windows 10 issue quickly and enjoy a clear and pristine audio experience on Windows 10.

Also, if you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, reach out to the comment section below, and we’ll surely assist you further.

Steam VR Error 436: Solved For Good

Posted on by Tashreef Shareef

When attempting to start the SteamVR app, some VR headset users reportedly encounter the SteamVR error 436.

The error is occurring on headsets connected to Windows 10 systems. A quick search in the Steam forum shows that this error has been troubling several users.

Let’s take a closer look at the most frequent issues our readers report so that you know exactly what you’re up against.

What causes the SteamVR error 436?

We researched online and found a few of the most common reasons why you would come across SteamVR Display Connection error 436 on your Windows system.

  • Because of loose connection.
  • You have installed incompatible add-ins.
  • Some essential add-ons are blocked.
  • The graphic driver isn’t up to date.
  • Corrupt SteamVR software installation.
  • Your integrated GPU is interfering with the dedicated GPU.

Where does the SteamVR error 436 occur?

  • Valve index display connection trouble
  • HTC Vive display connection trouble, error 436 (Another particularly frustrating HTC Vive error is 208, but you should be able to fix it by updating your drivers).
  • Your graphics card cannot successfully connect to your HMD.
  • SteamVR error your GPU is having trouble communicating with your HMD.
  • Steam VR lost connection to the display.
  • Unexpected SteamVR error.
  • Error starting SteamVR.
  • SteamVR error 203, 303, 306, 435 (SteamVR error 306 is an interesting case as the issue can be triggered by SteamVR updates. Fortunately, we prepared a complete list of tested and safe fixes for you to try out).

This is the guide you need if you own a VR headset and have encountered this error. In addition, we have listed a few troubleshooting steps to diagnose and fix the problem with ease.

How do I fix the SteamVR 436 error?

1. Update GPU drivers

  1. Click the Start button, type device manager, and open it.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.
  3. Click on Search automatically for drivers.
  4. If there are any new drivers, Windows will install them shortly. If you already have the best one installed, click on Search for updated drivers on Windows Update.
  5. Hit the Check for updates button and let the system install them.
  6. Select View optional updates.
  7. Click the Driver updates section to expand it, check the box for any graphics drivers and click the Download and install button below.

Outdated and corrupted graphics drivers can also affect SteamVR operation and result in an error, and as you can see, it’s a pretty time-consuming task.

However, you may solve this problem a lot easier using a dedicated tool called Outbyte Driver Updater.

Outbyte Driver Updater is a popular Windows utility that allows you to update outdated and missing drivers on your Windows system with a few clicks. You can choose to update a single or all the obsolete drivers recommended by the tool at once.

With lightning-fast scan and included driver manager, managing driver updates is easy. It also comes with a schedule manager that allows for automatic scans, updates, and backup of drivers.

Key features of Outbyte Driver Updater:

  • Huge driver database of over 1.8 million files
  • Built-in download manager and schedule manager
  • Driver backup feature to automatically create driver backup

Outbyte Driver Updater

Easily resolve the SteamVR error 436 by using this powerful software.
Free trial Download

2. Check for a loose connection

SteamVR uses a tether cable to connect the headset to your PC. If the tether cable is not connected properly, it may lead to a connection error. So, ensure the cable used to connect the device is firmly connected.

Some VR headsets like the HTC Vive require the users to firmly plug in the cable as they tend to have resistance levels before it is connected, offering a firm connection.

Check if the cables at both ends are firmly connected before you move on to the other fixes below. Then, make to relaunch the SteamVR client after inspecting the connection issues.

3. Unblock SteamVR add-ons

  1. Disconnect your VR headset from the computer. Also, disconnect any other controllers or VR accessories that you may have connected to the PC.
  2. After disconnecting the devices, click the SteamVR icon in the taskbar and select Settings.
  3. In the Settings menu, open Startup / Shutdown and select Manage SteamVR Add-Ons from the startup option.
  4. Click the Unblock All button under the Manage SteamVR Add-Ons section.
  5. Scroll through the list of add-ons to see if they are blocked. Then, click the Unblock button manually if required.
  6. Close the SteamVR app and reconnect your VR headset and accessories to the computer.
  7. Relaunch SteamVR and check if the error code 436 is resolved.

If you have third-party SteamVR add-ons installed, check if they are blocked. At times, the add-ons that SteamVR is relied on to offer additional features can get blocked due to system crashes.

To fix the problem, you should unblock all the add-ons affected by the crash. Several users have reported that unblocking SteamVR add-ons has helped resolve the issue.

4. Reinstall SteamVR

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open Run.
  2. Type appwiz.cpl and click OK to open Control Panel. It will list all the installed apps on your PC.
  3. Select and right-click on the Steam app and select Uninstall. Next, confirm the action by clicking on Yes when prompted by UAC.
  4. Repeat the steps for all the Steam and VR-related applications.
  5. Once the app is uninstalled, restart your computer and wait for it to startup.
  6. Visit the official Steam Download Page and download the latest version of Steam.
  7. Launch the installer, and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
  8. Once installed, launch Steam and download SteamVR.
  9. Connect the VR headset to your computer and launch SteamVR. Check if the problem is resolved.

5. Remove HTC Vive from SteamVR

Note icon NOTE
Skip these steps if you don’t have an HTC Vive Pro VR headset.
  1. Turn off your HTC Vive Pro headset. Also, disconnect the USB and DisplayPort / HDMI cables connected to the PC.
  2. Launch SteamVR on your PC, click the drop-down menu, and select Settings.
  3. In the Settings menu, open the Developer tab from the left pane.
  4. Scroll down to the Reset section and click the Remove all SteamVR USB Devices button.
  5. Click Yes to confirm the action and wait for SteamVR to remove all the devices.
  6. Restart your computer.
  7. Connect the HTC Vivo Pro headset and other cables to your PC.
  8. Launch SteamVR and set up the device if required. Check for any improvements.

6. Disable the integrated GPU

Note icon NOTE
Skip these steps if you don’t have a dedicated GPU on your PC.
  1. Press the Windows+R to open Run.
  2. Type devmgmt.msc and click OK to open Device Manager.
  3. In Device Manager, expand the Display Adapters section.
  4. Right-click on the Intel HD Graphics device and select Disable device.
  5. Click Yes to confirm the action when prompted by UAC.
  6. Once the integrated graphics is disabled, restart your computer.
  7. After the restart, launch SteamVR and check for any improvements.

The integrated GPU triggers the error in computers with both dedicated and integrated graphics. Disabling the integrated GPU seems to have fixed the SteamVR error 436 display connection trouble.

We hope that by following our guide, you managed to fix the SteamVR error 436 display connection trouble, and now you can use the app again.

You might also read our guide on how to fix the SteamVR error 306, which is similar to this one and might provide more information.

How do I reset SteamVR?

  1. Close Steam and SteamVR applications on your PC.
  2. Navigate to the below paths and delete the following files:
    C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\SteamVR\resources\settings\default.vrsettings
    C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\config\steamvr.vrsettings
    C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\config\lighthouse\lighthousedb.json
  3. Right-click on your SteamVR tool from the Steam library.
  4. Select Uninstall.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.
  6. Once installed, launch Steam and download SteamVR.

Fortunately, the SteamVR error 436 is a common issue, and it’s easy to fix, but if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to use the comments section below.

Epic Games Logging Errors: Why & How to Fix

Posted on by Teodor Nechita

While trying to access the game, a few users have encountered the error message there was an error logging you into Epic Games. Let us explore this error.

Epic Games is one of the biggest game distribution platforms on the market, rivaling services like Steam and GOG. As such, the owners developed their client called the Epic Games Launcher.

You can use the Epic Games launcher to purchase and download games and chat with other users. More so, you can manage your game library and read up on the latest news regarding the Epic Store.

Your information is secured via logging in with an account and password, which you must first create. However, some users have reported that they have problems with the process.

Why does There was an error logging you in Epic Games message appear?

There are many reasons for this problem; from feedback gathered from users, we figured that the top leading causes include the following:

  • Wrong credentials – If your Epic Games account is not found, it’s possible that you didn’t enter your credentials correctly. It’s also possible that your account was compromised.
  • Network problems – If you use Google or Facebook to log in, check your network connection and login data.
  • Server issues – Many users reported being offline because they can’t sign in to Epic Games. This is most likely due to server issues. This may even affect the Epic launcher.
  • Multiple connected devices – If you are connected to more than one device, it may trigger this error on a fresh login attempt.

Quick Tip:

If your login credentials are correct, you may be interrupted by a request sent to Epic Games. Therefore, we recommend that you log in using Opera GX with the VPN that can change your location.

Furthermore, because it’s a gaming browser, you may use bandwidth limiters when accessing Epic Games for a more stable connection when you log in or download anything.

Opera GX

Get a different location with the in-built VPN and access Epic Games.
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How can I fix the There was an error logging you into Epic Games?

Before you try these fixes, ensure to do the following:

  • Check the Epic servers – If the servers are down, there is nothing you can do aside from waiting it out. The Epic servers in your area might be down, but that doesn’t mean they are offline worldwide. Using a VPN such as PIA, you can check if that’s the case.
  • Make sure you’re not logged in on another PC – If you are logged into other devices, you must log out first, as this may be the cause of the error.

1. Make sure that your credentials are valid

  1. Open your Epic Games Launcher and go to the log-in section.
  2. Select Sign in with Epic Games.
  3. Then, select Forgot Your Password.
  4. Next, in the Email Address field, type in the mail associated with your account.
  5. Click Send Email.
  6. Follow the instructions in the mail to reset your password.

If you are facing other issues like Install Failed error code: II-E1003 while downloading game files on Epic Launcher, we suggest you check out this guide for easy solutions.

Note icon NOTE
If you recently performed a password reset or a password change, it can take some time until the changes take effect. As such, wait a bit longer before trying to log in again.

2. Delete the launcher’s web cache

  1. First, exist the Epic Games Launcher.
  2. Press the Windows key + R and type in %localappdata%, then press Enter.
  3. Open the Epic Games Launcher folder.
  4. Then, open the Saved folder.
  5. Next, right-click on the webcache folder, then select Delete.
  6. If you find a folder called webcache_4147, delete it as well.
  7. Then, restart your device.

This solution can also help with other problems, such as Epic Games Launcher api-ms-win-downlevel-kernel32 error message.

3. Repair your Epic Games launcher

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type in appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
  2. Select Epic Store Launcher.
  3. Right-click it and choose Repair.
  4. Follow the instructions.
  5. After the repair, restart your device.

Your Epic Games launcher might have some errors, so it is best to reinstall the software. This will likely fix the problem.

That’s about it. Now you know how to fix Epic Games launcher log-in problems. The solutions detailed above are straightforward and comprehensive.

The solutions will come in handy if there is an error logging you into Epic Games Ubisoft or your Epic Games account is not found.

If you’re having additional problems, you can always visit our Epic Store not working guide for more in-depth solutions.

One common login error is Request could not be completed during Epic Games login, so don’t miss our dedicated guide on it to see how to fix it.

Please let us know in the comments section below if you have other troubleshooting tips.

7 Best Cyber Monday Bluetooth Earbuds [Deals, Sales]

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Recent trend shifts in the mobile industry have led to the massive adoption of wireless headphones and earbuds. Some people like technology, and some people buy just because they have to, but this is the era of wireless devices.

If you haven’t gone wireless yet, now’s the right time. Simply because the prices of wireless earbuds are lower this time of year. So, why not take advantage of it? That’s why we’ve created this small list of the best wireless earbuds deals available – to help you save time and some money.

So, if you’re in the market for a new pair of Bluetooth earbuds, just check out the list below, and pick your favorite.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What are the best Bluetooth earbuds on the market?

Samsung Galaxy Buds+

  • Ambient Aware mode
  • 11hrs of nonstop playtime
  • Android & iOS compatible
  • Concerns about customer privacy when using the dedicated app
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These earbuds offer excellent sound quality for the money. Use the Ambient Aware option to control how much you want to still hear from the surroundings when listening to your favorite music.

Plus, the battery can last up to 11hrs, which is amazing for Bluetooth earbuds. A 3-minute recharge will give you one hour of playtime.

The carrying case is included.

TOZO T6

  • IPX8 Waterproof
  • Touch control
  • Charging case + 3 extra sets of ear tips
  • Issues with volume control
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Here is a great offer you shouldn’t miss.

These are full waterproof earbuds for a secure, comfortable fit, with 3 extra pairs of tips that should fit any ear form.

They deliver powerful deep bass and Hi-Fi stereo, sound quality. Also, they include an integrated microphone with a 6mm large-size speaker driver.

They’re ideal for gym and sports in general since you can sweat all you like and take the sure-deserving shower afterward without taking them out.

You can find these earbuds in 5 color options.

Echo Buds (2nd Gen) | True wireless earbuds

  • Noise reduction
  • Alexa integration
  • 5hrs playtime per charge
  • IPX4 water resistant
Amazon Product Check price

The Alexa integration is one big plus for these earbuds: you just have to activate Alexa and then you’re OK to go hands-free to stream music, make calls, listen to audiobooks, or get directions.

Support for other assistants such as Siri or Google Assistant is possible as well.

They use the Bose Active Noise Reduction Technology and sealed in-ear design for a seamless experience. 

Powerbeats Pro Totally

  • Integrated with Siri
  • Up to 9hrs of independent playtime
  • Secure-fit ear hooks
  • Quite a price tag
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One thing is for sure: whether you’re exercising, walking, or just sitting at your desk, these earbuds won’t fall off. The secure ear hook will keep them attached so you can fit them back just in case.

They feature the Apple H1 headphone chip and Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range and fewer dropouts.

Each earbud conveniently has a volume control button; besides, touching the side of the gadget ensures play/pause/forward/backward control.

You can pair them with chip-enabled Beats headphones or AirPods to simultaneously share your audio with someone.

Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds-Bluetooth Wireless Earphones

  • Noise-canceling earbuds
  • 12 hours and charges via the included USB-C cable
  •  Bluetooth 5.1 with connection to your device within 30 feet.
  • Qi-certified charging mat not included
Amazon Product Check price

This is yet another pair of noise-canceling earbuds with  full transparency mode that allows you to eliminate distractions.

Also, it comes with some additional features such as a unique acoustic architecture that brings music, podcasts, and videos to life, while volume-optimized active EQ keeps sounding clear and balanced at every level.

Get up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 12 hours of use and can be charged wirelessly via the included USB-C cable or using a Qi-certified charging mat (not included).

That’s about it. We certainly hope you picked a pair of wireless earbuds that suits both your wallet and your needs. Also, don’t hesitate to share your pick with us in the comments below.

Install Windows 11 on Legacy Bios: no TPM and Secure Boot

Posted on by Claudiu Andone

By now, it is no secret that we need TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot to install Windows 11, but we already know that we can enable them from the UEFI BIOS Mode.

However, things get a little complicated if you have a Legacy BIOS because switching to UEFI might get you in trouble and erase your disk, so you might not be OK with that.

And even if you do so, you might still be unable to enable TPM 2.0 because you don’t have the chip on your motherboard.

However, we have a workaround to help you install Windows 11 on Legacy BIOS without TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot checks.

Before starting the procedure, back up all important data on your drive and check the BIOS mode. Although this shouldn’t affect your files, it’s a recommended step before any such tweaking.

Can Windows 11 install without UEFI?

A publicly published standard called the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface details the software protocol for communication between an OS and the platform’s firmware.

The UEFI is an integral element in the new OS, and it is officially required for a smooth installation of Windows 11.

However, to install Windows 11, even if your PC or laptop doesn’t have the necessary hardware specs, TPM UEFI Secure Boot and CPU requirements may be avoided, even though booting from a CSM or legacy bios isn’t officially allowed in Windows 11.

Hence, the answer to the above question is yes. Installation of Windows 11 on a PC with a legacy BIOS is as simple as preparing a USB false drive and the Windows 11 installation ISO file.

How can I install Windows 11 on Legacy BIOS?

1. Use a third-party tool

  1. Download Rufus. Starting with version 3.16, this tool has a unique selection to create a Windows 11 boot media without TPM and Secure Boot checks.
  2. Run the installer and open the software. You can also download the 3.16p version, which is portable, so you don’t need to install it.windows 11 legacy bios
  3. Connect your USB drive, then select the drive from the drop-down menu. If you only have one, it will detect it automatically.windows 11 legacy bios
  4. Now click the SELECT button and browse for the Windows 11 ISO file on your PC. You can get it from the dedicated Microsoft Download page if you don’t have one.windows 11 legacy bios
  5. In the Image option, click the drop-down menu, and select the Extended Windows Installation (no TPM/no Secure Boot).windows 11 legacy bios
  6. If you have a Legacy BIOS, you must change the Partition scheme to MBR. If you have UEFI, select GPT.windows 11 legacy bios
  7. Now, you can also change the volume label and partition system but if you’re unsure what to do, leave the options as they are. Hit the START button at the end.windows 11 legacy bios
  8. The tool will create a bootable USB drive that you can use to install Windows 11 on your Legacy BIOS without TPM and Secure Boot checks.

Also, don’t forget to use these Rufus settings for Windows 11 if you want to run it on a legacy machine.

This is the easiest method to install Windows 11 on your Legacy BIOS PC because this tool has the simple option to create the bypass for TPM and Secure Boot checks.

2. Modify your Windows 11 ISO manually

Note icon NOTE
For this solution, you will need a bootable Windows 10 USB drive. If you don’t have one, check out our article on how to create one.
  1. Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s dedicated Download page. If you already have one, ignore this step.
  2. Press the Windows key + E to start File Explorer, look for the Windows 11 ISO file, right-click it, and select Mount.
  3. Browse the new virtual drive, get to the sources folder, right-click on the install.wim file, and select Copy.
  4. Connect your Windows 10 USB drive, browse its sources folder, right-click anywhere, and select Paste from the context menu.
  5. Replace the file in the destination folder, restart your PC, and boot with the Windows 10 drive. Don’t worry; by replacing the wim file, you transformed the drive into a Windows 11 kit.

You won’t need any other modification for this solution because Windows 10 doesn’t check for TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, so you should be good to go.

3. Bypass TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot checks from the Windows 11 setup

  1. Press the Windows key + R to start Run, type regedit, and press Enter or click OK.windows 11 legacy bios
  2. Navigate to the following directory:
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup
  3. Right-click on the right pane, select New, then pick Key and name it LabConfig.
  4. Access the new key, right-click in the right pane, and select New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  5. Name it BypassTPMCheck, create another DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it BypassSecureBootCheck.
  6. Double-click each of the keys, type 1 in the value field to both, then click OK.
  7. Restart your PC and try running the Windows 11 installer.

This should bypass the TPM and Secure Boot checks but will still not get you over the Legacy BIOS problem.

You can overcome that only by creating a booting drive for MBR, just like we did in the first solution using Rufus.

So, this is how you can install Windows 11 without UEFI BIOS and avoid the TPM and Secure Boot checks simultaneously.

We remind you that some of the methods provided here can offer you a clean installation of Windows 11 that will delete all your data on the drive.

Many users prefer setting up Windows 11 without linking a Microsoft account, especially when privacy or offline use is a concern. If you want a step-by-step method, you can follow this guide on how to install Windows 11 without Microsoft account, which also shows you how to bypass the account requirement during setup.

History has taught us that anything can happen during an update or installation, so it’s essential to perform a data backup before starting anything. Just use the best backup software in that regard.

If you don’t have a Legacy BIOS, we also have an excellent guide on installing Windows 11 without TPM that will surely help you.

For any other information or suggestions, you can confidently use the comments section below and write us all about it.

Fix: A Required CD/DVD Drive Device Driver is Missing Error

Posted on by Cesar Cadenas

The CD/DVD Device Driver error occurs when you’re trying to install Windows 7 or upgrade it to another OS through either a DVD or USB device. This is only one error that can occur with upgrading the OS.

Updating to Windows 10, for example, has its own set of challenges. But the trickiness of the CD/DVD error warrants its own solutions, such as going into BIOS.

What is causing the device driver missing error?

According to Microsoft, there are three leading causes behind the driver error. We’re going to a couple more on top of that, so all bases are covered.

  • CD/DVD Drive may not compatible with Windows 7: It may be hard to believe people still use drivers, but with Windows 7, it’s possible. You’ll have to replace the drive in this instance.
  • The drive may not work with the Microsoft AHCHI driver: To fix this, you’ll have to go into BIOS on Windows 7.
  • The physical disk used for installing Windows 7 is dirty: The solution for this is pretty easy. Just clean it and insert it back.
  • USB flash drives are prone to this error: We recommend using a different USB drive to install the operating system if the first one doesn’t work.
  • The USB 3.0 port doesn’t recognize the drive: This is actually a fairly common error. We recommend reinstalling the USB 3.0 drivers to fix this.

How do I address the missing driver error?

Solutions for this error can range from incredibly easy to pretty tricky, as you’ll have to go into your computer’s BIOS.

  • Plug the USB drive that has Windows 7 into another port. Doing this solves the problem a majority of the time.
  • Conversely, unplug the drive and plug it back into the same drive. It’s that simple.
  • If there is one, update your computer’s drivers to the latest version. Unfortunately, Windows 7 is no longer officially supported, so this may be tricky.
  • And if all else fails, contact your computer’s manufacturer for support.

1. Disable AHCI Mode

  1. Press the F2 key on your keyboard. If you have to enter BIOS, restart your computer and try again.
  2. Using the arrow keys, move to the Advanced tab and find the Local Bus IDE adapter.
  3. Highlight it, press Enter on your keyboard, and set the adapter to Primary in the new window.
  4. Press F10 on your keyboard to exit and return to the installation wizard.
  5. AHCI stands for Advanced Host Controller Interface and can get in the way of installing Windows 7.

2. Reinstall USB 3.0 drivers

  1. Click Start, type device manager, and open it from the list.
  2. Expand Other devices and Universal Serial Bus controllers to see if any drivers have a yellow icon next to them.
  3. Right-click the entry with the yellow icon and select Update Driver Software.
  4. Click Search automatically for update driver software to install the drivers in the new window that appears.
  5. If the computer can’t install the update because of missing files, go to the Intel USB 3.0 driver page for Windows 7 on Lenovo’s website.
  6. Click the download icon to the right of the page to get the USB 3.0 drivers.
  7. Return to the Device Manager and update the drivers again.
  8. Click Uninstall in the Device Manager context menu to remove the drivers if the problem persists.
  9. Reboot your computer and go back to Device Manager to update again. It should work this time.

As an automated alternative to the manual procedure, you can try using a dedicated tool, such as Outbyte Driver Updater. This program scans your device for all outdated drivers and automatically updates them with brand-new versions from its repository.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Prevent various errors from appearing on your computer and maintain your drivers updated with Outbyte Driver Updater.
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3. Adjust Registry Editor

  1. Close all programs on your Windows 7 computer if you have any open.
  2. Click the Start menu and type in regedit.
  3. Select the entry that appears to bring up the Registry Editor.
  4. Select Yes if a User Account Control window asks if you want to make changes.
  5. Expand HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and then select SYSTEM.
  6. Click CurrentControlSet.
  7. Afterward, select services to enter another set of entries.
  8. Scroll down until you find the msahci folder.
  9. We recommend backup the registry folder if something goes wrong and you must go back. Right-click the folder and select Export.
  10. Find a location for the registry file on your computer.
  11. Please give it a name and hit the Save button.
  12. Go to the file’s location and click File in the upper left-hand corner to restore the registry.
  13. Select Import and open the saved registry.
  14. Right-click Start in the right-hand menu and select Modify once you’re done creating the backup.
  15. Set the value data to “0” and hit the OK button to exit.
  16. Some Windows 7 computers may not have msahci. Look for lastorV instead and perform the same steps.
  17. Go to File in the Registry Editor and click Exit.

Are there other fixes for Windows 7 that I should know about?

A particular Bluetooth driver called BCM20702A0 had been reported missing, causing specific hardware components to malfunction. We strongly recommend getting this fixed.

Fortunately, it’s easy to do. All you have to do is go to the manufacturer’s website and download it from there. You should also look into getting a register cleaner to boost your computer’s performance.

And the best part is it’s done automatically. Some of our favorites include CCleaner and Iolo System Mechanic.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about other video game problems or bugs. And please tell us if there’s a specific guide for a game that you’d like to see.

Steam Needs to Be Online to Update: 8 Methods to Use

Posted on by Milan Stanojevic

Many Windows 10 users use Steam regularly, but a few reported an error message saying that Steam needs to be online to update. It seems like this can happen on both Windows 10 and 11.

This strange problem will prevent you from playing your favorite games, so we understand how annoying it can be.

Fortunately, a few solutions are available, and we’re discussing them below. Before discovering them, we consider properly presenting some of the most common causes that can lead to the problem.

Why does Steam needs to be online to update error appear?

Different user experiences show a few common reasons for encountering this issue. Ranking on the top of this list are the following:

  • Local client connection issues – If Steam fails to connect with the local client, you might get an error message regarding your Internet connection.
  • Restricted online components – Another issue that users reported is Unable to initialize Steam API, and if this happens, it means that certain online components aren’t accessible to you.
  • Access rights – Sometimes you might have permission errors, and if that happens, you’ll encounter this Steam access denied error; however, all these issues can be easily resolved.

With these significant triggers in mind, some solutions have proven effective.

How can I fix Steam needs to be online to update error?

1. Run Steam in Compatibility mode

  1. Right-click the Steam shortcut and select Properties.steam needs to be online to update
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab, then checkmark the Run this program in compatibility mode for box.steam needs to be online to update
  3. Now, choose Windows 8 from the list of options.steam needs to be online to update
  4. Check Run this program as an administrator option.steam needs to be online to update
  5. Try starting Steam again.

2. Disable the Windows Firewall

  1. Press the Windows + S keys, type firewall, and select Windows Defender Firewall from the result list.steam needs to be online to update
  2. Click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.steam needs to be online to update
  3. Select Turn off Windows Firewall (not recommended) for private and public network settings.
  4. Click OK to save the changes.

Disabling the firewall isn’t recommended, so after you’ve updated Steam, turn on Windows Firewall again.

To prevent data Internet connection-related errors in Steam, it’s also advised to see if Windows Firewall is blocking a port or program.

3. Delete files from the Steam folder

  1. Right-click on your Steam shortcut, then choose to Open file location.
    steam needs to be online to update
  2. There, delete all files except these: Steam.exe and Steamapps folder.
    steam needs to be online to update
  3. Restart your computer.
  4. After your computer boots, go to Steam’s installation directory and run Steam.exe.

4. Use the Registry Editor

  1. Open the Windows Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R combination.
  2. Type regedit, then click on OK.steam needs to be online to update
  3. Go to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Valve\Steam
  4. In the right pane, click on Offline DWORD.
  5. If not available, right-click the right pane choose New, and select DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  6. Set the name to Offline, then double-click on it.
  7. Set its Value Data to 0 and save the changes.
  8. Close the Registry Editor, restart your computer, and check if the problem is resolved.

5. Temporarily disable your antivirus

If you’re using Norton, visit our uninstall guide for Norton Antivirus for more information.

In case you’re running McAfee, read our guide on how to remove McAfee antivirus for more information.

For those who are unsure how to perform the process in your particular case, we recommend visiting the manufacturer’s official website for info regarding this subject.

We suggest using the best antivirus software to avoid potential Steam problems.

6. Copy the Steam files from another computer

  1. Connect a flash drive on a working PC and copy all files from Steam’s installation directory except the Steamapps folder.
  2. Connect the USB flash drive to the initial PC and paste all the files to your Steam installation directory.
  3. When asked to overwrite files, click on the option to replace them.
  4. Run Steam.exe to check if the issue is resolved.

7. Add the -tcp parameter to the Steam shortcut

  1. Locate the Steam shortcut and right-click it. Choose Properties from the menu.
    steam needs to be online to update
  2. Go to the Shortcut tab and, in the Target section, add -tcp after the quotation marks.
  3. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
  4. Go to the Compatibility tab and check Run this program as administrator.
    steam needs to be online to update
  5. Run the shortcut and check if the issue is resolved.

8. Turn off your Proxy

  1. Use the following hotkey to open Windows Settings: Windows + I
  2. Now, go to the Network & Internet section.
  3. Select Proxy from the left pane, and in the right pane, disable all options.

If you’re unfamiliar with proxy and how it works, read our proxy vs. VPN guide to learn more about it.

The Steam needs to be online to update error can cause lots of problems with your gaming, but we hope that our solutions were helpful to you.

Note that these solutions for Steam needs to be online to update will also work on a school computer.

If you’re aware of an alternative solution, leave it in the comments below. Also, leave any other questions, and we’ll check them out.