Adobe Acrobat not Responding: Fix in 4 Steps

Posted on by Teodor Nechita

Adobe Acrobat Reader is one of the world’s most well-known PDF readers and editors. It has been with us for quite some time now, and it is constantly receiving updates to make it more and more relevant.

Unfortunately, no software is without issues, as some users have reported on the official Adobe forums that they are receiving an error message when using Adobe Acrobat Reader DC:

Can someone help me troubleshoot why Adobe Acrobat Reader isn’t responding? When I open a PDF, I get an error message that tells me the program is unable to respond and needs to quit and to click okay to close, I then click okay and nothing happens, having to click multiple times. I have uninstalled and reinstalled and the same issue occurs. Before this, I attempted to repair it and scanned for issues. I’m running Windows 10 on a PC.

Since the program is so well-known, we have decided to look over some troubleshooting steps and compile them into an easy-to-read list so that you can solve your problem immediately.

Why is my Adobe Acrobat Reader not responding?

This issue can happen for several reasons, including running an outdated software version, low on system resources, or corrupted app files. For example, you’ll sometimes encounter Adobe Acrobat Reader crashes when trying to open specific files.

Here are some of the issues reported by users related to Adobe Acrobat and Acrobat Reader:

  • Adobe Acrobat not responding when signing
  • Adobe Acrobat not responding when combining files
  • Adobe Acrobat not responding when opening PDF
  • Adobe Acrobat not responding when printing
  • Adobe Reader not responding scrolling
  • Adobe Acrobat not responding when saving

This isn’t the only issue; many reported that the fill and sign PDF is not working, which leads us to believe that a corrupted installation causes this.

Also, this isn’t the only affected application, and many reported Something’s keeping this PDF from opening in Edge, which, too, is easily fixable.

How do I fix Adobe Acrobat Reader DC not responding?

1. Update Adobe Acrobat Reader DC manually

Visit the official website and look for the latest patch version. Download updates manually and then double-click to install them. Once installed, reboot your PC and check.

We strongly recommend that you always run updated software on your system. It is the best way to protect yourself against security vulnerabilities and benefit from the latest fixes and compatibility updates.

Something to note is that you should always download the latest version of any software from official sources, or where that is not possible, from reputable websites.

You can easily download Acrobat Reader DC from Adobe’s website, so waste no more time.

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC

Worried that Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is not responding? Updating it will help you fix the issue in no time!
Free trial Visit website

2. Run the program in compatibility mode

  1. Go to the following file path:
    C:\Program Files(x86)\Adobe\Acrobat Reader DC\Reader
  2. Locate AcroRd32.exe.adobe acrobat reader
  3. Right-click AcroRd32.exe and go to Properties.
  4. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  5. Under Compatibility mode, check the box next to Run this program in compatibility mode, and select an older version of Windows from the dropdown menu.
  6. Try relaunching Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.

3. Run the program with Admin rights

  1. Go to the following file path:
    C:/Program Files(x86)/Adobe/Acrobat Reader DC/Readeradobe acrobat reader
  2. Locate AcroRd32.exe.
  3. Right-click AcroRd32.exe and go to Properties.
  4. Go to the Compatibility tab, check the box where it says Run this program as an administrator, and click on OK.run this program as an administrator to fix adobe acrobat not responding
  5. Try relaunching Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.

4. Disable protected mode

  1. Launch Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, click the Edit menu, and select Preferences.preferences
  2. Navigate to the Security (Enhanced) tab and uncheck the box next to Enable Protected Mode at Startup.enable protected mode at startup
  3. Click Yes in the confirmation prompt that appears.yes

How do I unfreeze Adobe without losing data?

The easiest way to do that is to terminate the application from the Task Manager and then relaunch it. In most cases, it should get things up and running. You may also reboot the system if that doesn’t work.

If a restart doesn’t do it, use the Adobe Reader and Acrobat Cleaner tool to remove the software and reinstall Adobe Acrobat.

Reinstalling the tool won’t affect the files stored on the computer, and you will be able to access the ones stored on the cloud as well, given you sign in with the same account.

By following these steps, you should be able to get rid of the annoying Adobe Acrobat Reader DC not responding issue and read and edit your PDF file in peace.

Also, find out the best PDF readers if you plan to dump Adobe Acrobat and switch to a new one.

If you know of any other fixes and solutions for this issue, let us know by leaving us a message in the comments section below.

How to change the child’s password in Microsoft Family

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Users have been searching the world wide web to find a solution on how to change their child’s password in the Microsoft Family account.

This used to be a feature from the formerly known Family Safety but the option of resetting a password using a parent account is no longer available in Microsoft Family.

With so many children that are now virtually learning from home and are more connected to technology than ever, being able to access their account even though they no longer have the password has become a necessity.

So, what are you supposed to do when you find yourself in a situation like this? Keep reading and find out all the ways you can resolve this issue once and for all.

Why should you have a dedicated account for your child?

First of all, with a separate local or family account, you can manage the contents and access to different apps and information.

So, in a word, it’s all about the safety of your kid and how he or she interacts with the computer while you’re not around.

Here are a few short pieces of advice that you can consider when managing your child’s account.

➡ Supervise the child as often as possible

Depending on his or her age, you will need to keep an eye on the activities the kid is allowed to perform on the computer.

That’s why, if you can’t be there at all times, it’s better to consider using the Family options from the Windows Security app.

Use Family options for access to setting up your family group of users and more

To get there, click the Start button, type security, and click on Windows Security. Then, the last option from the left pane list is Family options.

From there, you can click on View family settings which will redirect you to your account, where you will be able to set up your family group of users.

➡ Limit the PC time

Choose an appropriate daily allowance

Again, consider the age of your child when deciding how much screen time he or she can get in front of the PC.

This may vary from a few minutes to hours on a daily or weekly basis. You know what’s best for your kid, but too much time on a game or just in front of the screen can get him tired or even addicted.

There are specialized apps out there, including Microsoft Family Safety, which you can use to limit the time spent on the PC automatically, and after that, switch to a lock screen.

Quick Tip:

Besides Microsoft Family, another great way to manage your family’s passwords is with a password manager. We recommend NordPass for its great features.

NordPass is great at monitoring passwords. It syncs easily across multiple devices and comes with a family plan so you can control the websites your kids’ visit.

NordPass

Easily manage passwords for the whole family from one place.
Free Download Visit Website

How can I change the child’s password in Microsoft Family?

1. Reset the password

  1. Click on forgot password with their account or go to the official password reset page.
  2. Write the email address that you want to change the password and hit Next.
  3. Select which option to send the verification code to, phone number, or recovery email and click on the Get code button.
  4. You will receive a 6-digit code as a text message or in an an e-mail to your specified address. Copy and paste that code in the form and hit Next.
  5. Enter the new password and click on Next.
  6. You will receive a message that the password was changed. You can now click the Sign in button to safely get inside the account with the new password.

2. Recover the account

  1. Make sure you have a working email address.
  2. Go to the official account recovery page.
  3. Fill out the form and hit Next at the bottom of the page.
  4. Microsoft will review your request and respond within 24 hours.

3. Use Command Prompt

  1. Click the Start button, type command prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. Enter the following command, where username is the account you wish to change password and newpassword is the new password for the account; if the username is more than one word, you’ll need to place it inside quotes: net user username newpassword
  3. Press Enter to run this command and you’ll now see a message that it was completed successfully.
  4. Use the new password to log into the account.

4. Use Control Panel

  1. Click the Start button, type control panel and select Control Panel from the results.
  2. Go to User Accounts.
  3. Select Change account type.
  4. Select the User Account for which you want to change the password.
  5. Click on Change the password.
  6. After you’ve completed the boxes, click on the Change password button.
  7. Use the new password to log into the account.

What are other child lock options to take advantage of?

➡ Reset the password using one of the Microsoft games

If your child doesn’t already play a game with his Microsoft account, download a game on your device and choose the forgot password option.

Enter the email address for the security code to be sent to, and from there you’ll be able to change his password. 

➡ Create a new account

If none of the above options worked, you can try deleting the whole family account or just the child account and create a new one.

  1. Click the Start button, type user, and select Add, edit, or remove other users.
  2. Next, click on Add someone else to this PC and follow the procedure to add the new account that your child will be using.

If you want to get the password back instead, we have a great selection of password recovery software tools for Windows 10.

We hope that this guide was the answer you were looking for and that you and your child can now enter the Microsoft account.

It’s easy to lose a password, moreover when it’s not your own. The children don’t pay attention to these details or they might have changed it when you left your laptop unattended.

That’s why you should try to keep your accounts safe from their reach and lock your screen for their own safety.

Interested in finding out more about how to keep your kids safe with Microsoft’s Family Safety? You can also monitor the location, receive constant reports for each child, and limit the screen and app times accordingly, so don’t postpone all these.

For any suggestions, questions, or thank you notes, use the comments section below and we’ll get back to you.

How to install Active Directory in Windows Server

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

After the installation and initial configuration of the server of choice (be it 2012, 2016, or 2019), the next step is to install Active Directory (AD) on your server.

Besides centralized domain management, this directory service has many directory-based uses. So, if you were wondering how to install Active Directory in Windows Server, follow the steps below.

How do I install Active Directory on Windows Server?

  1. 1. Press the Windows + R keyboard buttons at the same time to open the Run dialog, type servermanager in it, and then press Enter.

    Alternatively, you can also open the Server Manager menu via Taskbar, by clicking on its icon.

    how to open server manager via run dialog

  2. 2. Select Add roles and features in the dashboard.

  3. 3. Once you see the Roles Features Wizard, select the Role-based or features-based option and then click Next two times in a row.

  4. 4. Now, click Active Directory Domain Services and then press on Add features.

  5. 6. Add the features you want to install and then click Next.

  6. 7. Check everything before hitting Install.

  7. 8. Now, press the Windows key + R to bring the Run command line and type services.msc. Press Enter.

    run install Active Directory on Windows Server

  8. 9. Under Services, locate the Remote Registry service. Right-click on it and choose Start from the contextual menu.

  9. 10. Open the Server Manager again.

  10. 11. From Notifications, select Post-deployment configuration and then click Promote this server to a domain controller.

  11. 12. In the Deployment Configuration tab, choose Radial options and then click Add a new forest.

  12. 13. Insert your domain name and then click Next.

  13. 14. Choose Forest functional level and Domain.

  14. 15. Enter and confirm a password for DSRM (Directory Services Restore Mode), and then click Next.

  15. 16. In a few new windows, confirm NetBIOS name select the locations for the Database, SYSVOL folders, and Log files.

  16. 17. Click Next and then finally click Install.

  17. 18. Reboot the Windows server.

    18. Installing the Active Directory on Windows Server is a lengthy but easy-to-follow process that can be done by anyone, as it doesn’t require a lot of technological knowledge.

    The entire installation is done via the built-in Server Manager tool on your device. Upon installing the Active Directory, you can also configure it to your liking, as show in the steps above.

Along the way, you might need to make certain configuration changes depending on the features you require.

Before you go, you should know that issues such as An account with the same name that exists in Active Directory can appear as well, but we have a guide that addresses them.

These were instructions on how to install Active Directory on Windows Server. If you have any questions, make sure to post them in the comments section below.

5 Easy Ways to Fix Error Licensing This Video on YouTube TV

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

YouTube is one of the best streaming sites we have today. However, an increasing number of users report that they constantly run into the issue of YouTube TV error licensing this video. In this article, we will show you how to fix the problem.

There may be a playback issue when you watch videos on YouTube TV that reads, Sorry, there was an error licensing this video. This hurts YouTube TV’s streaming as well as other video-related material.

Why does my YouTube TV say error licensing this video?

There are several potential causes for the YouTube video licensing problem, including:

  • A network flaw or error or problems with an internet connection
  • Ineffective YouTube TV app
  • Outdated browser – learn how to fix your browser
  • Operating system issues (for computer and Chromebook users)
  • Corrupted data from the YouTube TV app
  • Corrupted data from a Google Account

How do you fix Sorry, there was an error licensing this video?

1. Update the YouTube app

If using your mobile phone:

  1. Visit the App store (Google Play Store or Apple App store).Google Play - youtube tv error licensing this video
  2. Locate the YouTube app.
  3. Choose Update.Update YouTube

If using another device:

  1. Go to System settings and choose System Update. 
  2. Choose Updates, including those for the YouTube TV app, that are still pending will be installed.

2. Update your Google Chrome browser

  1. Launch Google Chrome and click on the three dots menu.Chrome Menu - youtube tv error licensing this video
  2. Go to Help, then About Google Chrome, from the drop-down menu list.
  3. You will see the current version of your browser in a pop-up tab that appears. There will be an Update button if it is out of date. To update, click on it.About Chrome - youtube tv error licensing this video

3. Restart your router

  1. Remove the power cord from the outlet, unplugging your router.Disconnect Power Code
  2. Give it a minute or so to sit.
  3. Reconnect the router’s plug and turn it on.Connect - youtube tv error licensing this video

4. Sign out, then sign in again to your YouTube account

How to sign out

  1. Launch the YouTube app.
  2. Click on your profile photo and then select Sign Out.Sign Out - youtube tv error licensing this video

How to sign in

  1. Launch the YouTube app.
  2. Now click on Sign in and follow the on-screen instructions to sign in.Sign in Youtube

5. Update the Widevine CMD Component in Chrome

  1. Use your Chrome search bar and type chrome:/components.
  2. To verify the update under the Widevine Content Decryption Module section, scroll to the bottom of this page and click the Check for update button.Widevine Content Decryption
  3. Go back and see if the YouTube TV licensing error problem is still present.

Is a TV license required for YouTube?

Most of the time, it is not required. The only exception would be if you were viewing a channel that simultaneously streamed and broadcast (including any encoding delays of a few seconds or minutes). Sky News Live is one illustration. 

Youtube TV is one of the most popular TV streaming options available today. However, just like other streaming options, you might encounter challenges such as the YouTube TV error licensing this video error or even it stops working.

Fortunately, as discussed above, you can quickly fix the issue without any problems. Let us know which solution worked for you in the comments area below.

How to Boot VMware from a USB drive

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

If you’re wondering how to boot from a USB drive in VMware, you’re very close to finding a definitive answer. All you need to do is read through this article to find it.

Being able to boot from a USB drive inside VMware is extremely important, allowing you to access your VM even if the virtual system becomes corrupted.

Is it safe to boot a VM from USB?

It is worth mentioning that booting from a USB device is not part of the VMware characteristics of the older versions, as it is considered a possible threat to the integrity of your system.

Even though that is the case, there is a trick that you can apply to get access to this feature even with an older version of VMware.

If you want to find out the trick mentioned above and the updated steps you need to take in order to boot from a USB device inside VMware’s latest release, read on.

Check out our dedicated article to find out how to use dual monitors in VMware.

How can I boot from USB in VMware?

    1. Boot VMware from USB using Plop Boot Manager

    As you cannot directly boot from USB in VMware, you need to use a trick. The workaround for this is using a dedicated third-party tool called Plop Boot Manager.

    The tool is free and easy to use, and can do the job for you in a few simple clicks. This is the only method that works for VM versions that came out before VMware 11.

  1. 1. Download the latest version of Plop Boot Manager from the official website. The downloaded file will be in ZIP format and contain an .ISO file, which is the one we need.

    plop manager download page

  2. 2. Plug the USB drive in a USB port on your PC.

  3. 3. Open VMware, click File and select New Virtual Machine. This will start the New Virtual Machine Wizard.

  4. 3. Choose the Typical option and then click Next.

  5. 4. Now it’s time to navigate to the location of your ISO file.

  6. 5. Click Installer Disc Image File (ISO) and then press Browse.

  7. 6. In the Browse window, navigate to the location of Plot Boot Manager.

  8. 7. Select the .ISO file and click Open.

  9. 8. Set the guest OS as Linux, then,  under the Version section, choose Ubuntu and click Next.

  10. 9. Choose a name for your virtual machine and click Next.

  11. 10. Select the desired disk size and click Next.

  12. 11. Click the Customize Hardware button and select USB Controller from the left side menu.

  13. 12. Tick the box next to the option Automatically connect new USB devices and then click Finish.

2. Boot VM from USB using the Boot with EFI option

  1. Double-click the VMware Player icon to open it.
  2. Open the Virtual machine settings menu.
  3. Click the Options tab -> and choose the Advanced option found at the bottom of the left side table.
  4. Enable the option Boot with EFI instead of BIOS -> press Ok.
  5. Start your VM.
  6. Right-click the USB disk icon found inside your taskbar -> choose Connect (Disconnect from Host).
  7. Turn off your VM.
  8. Right-click the VM -> Power -> choose the option Power On To Firmware.
  9. Inside the Boot Manager -> select the EFI USB device -> press Enter.

This method is recommended to use with newer VMware versions. On them, you do not need to rely on third-party apps.

In today’s article, we explored the best methods that allow you to boot from a USB drive inside VMware. But did you know that it’s possible to access files on USB from Hyper-V using passthrough?

If these methods helped you answer your question, please let us know. You can share your thoughts with us by using the comment section below.

Microsoft sign-in issues on Windows 11 patched

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Earlier this week, Microsoft identified a bug that was causing some users running on Windows 11 21H2 to experience some issues when signing in. Further detailing that this occurred to those who installed KB5016691 and then added a new Microsoft account to their devices. However, those with Azure or Active Directory services did not encounter this problem.

But Microsoft has now patched the issue using Known Issue Rollback (KIR), though it might take up to 24 hours to resolve the problem. They have also indicated that restarting your device after applying this fix might help hasten the process. ” For enterprise-managed devices that have installed an affected update and encountered this issue can resolve it by installing and configuring a special Group Policy. The special Group Policy can be found in Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> KB5016691 220722_051525 Known Issue Rollback -> Windows 11 (original release),” says Microsoft.

Microsoft has further provided a workaround for the issue, highlighting that it will resolve itself within a short span of time. Users will need to wait for the lock screen to appear again so that they can sign in as they usually do.

Have you experienced the sign-in issue? Let us know in the comment section below.

 

You can now register to attend the Microsoft Ignite 2022 conference

Posted on by Radu Tyrsina

Microsoft has typically been holding all its events on digital spaces ever since the COVID-19 hit. But this year in July, they announced that they will be holding their first in-person conference since the pandemic, Microsoft Ignite which is slated to run from October 12-14 in Seattle, at the Seattle Convention Center starting from 9 AM PT. However, they also detailed in the FAQ section of the event that though it is an in-person event space will be limited.

Registration for the event is now open on the conference’s homepage, with the option to attend it either virtually or in person. Attending the conference virtually is free but still requires registration while those who intend to go to the event in person will have to incur an approximate cost of $1,895 depending on the pass option you select while registering as detailed on Microsoft’s FAQ page.

We are yet to establish what Microsoft has in store for us during the three-day conference, but there were some indications that the event could also feature the release of new Surface devices and even the Windows 11 22H2 update.

Besides the conference in Seattle, Microsoft is also planning spotlights across multiple locations where we expect deliberations revolving around the news and announcements from the Keynote and Core Themes, along with market-specific discussions.

How to Factory Reset Your Steam Deck [Recovery Tips]

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Several Steam Deck users have requested to know how to reset their Steam Deck to factory settings. From findings, some users are finding it challenging to boot, while some are experiencing other breaking issues.

Better still, this article is for you if you have installed another operating system and would like to get back to using the standard Deck SteamOS.

It might interest you that, in Steam Deck, the real meaning of reset or factory reset is regarded as re-imaging.

This process can wipe all user info, operating systems, or installed games and applications and replace them with stock SteamOS.

For whatever reason, you need to activate steam deck factory reset, steam deck factory reset from bios, or steam deck factory reset SD card, you can read further to know better.

Can you reinstall SteamOS on Steam Deck?

Yes, it is possible to reinstall SteamOS on Steam Deck. However, you want to be careful to have a backup for your essential data to be on the safe side.

Although a reinstall will keep your game library and data intact, do not resist the urge to back up your data.

    How do I factory reset my Steam Deck?

    In order to factory reset your Steam Deck, you need to download the recovery image via Steam Store to an USB flash drive and boot from it on your device.

  1. 1. Prepare a USB of about 8GB minimum space to download the recovery image.

  2. 2. Visit the Steam Store to download the recovery image.

    steam deck download image

  3. 3. Select the recovery file and write it to your USB drive to format the contents of the USB drive.

  4. 4. Once it’s done, select Close and eject the USB drive.

  5. 5. On Linux you can use Balena Etcher to write the recovery file to your USB.

    balena etcher usb

  6. 6. Otherwise, you can write the recovery file to your USB via the command line by entering the following: bzcat steamdeck-recovery-1.img.bz2 | dd if=/dev/stdin of=/dev/sdX oflag=sync status=progress bs=128M (set /dev/sdX to the USB device you inserted)

  7. 7. Use a USB-C adapter or hub to plug in the boot disk.

  8. 8. If your Steam Deck is not already powered down, shut it down.

    press the shut down button on steam deck

  9. 9. Hold the Volume Down and the Power Button simultaneously until you hear the chime, and you’ll be booted into the Boot Manager.

    hold the volume and power buttons on steam deck

  10. 10. In the Boot Manager, boot from the EFI USB Device (your USB key).

  11. 11. Do not panic, as the screen will go dark while booting (within a minute).

  12. 12. Once the booting is completed, you will be on a desktop, and you can navigate using the trackpad and trigger.

  13. 13. You will be able to reset/re-image Steam Deck.

How do I access Steam Deck BIOS?

Hold the Volume Up button to access the Steam Deck BIOS and simultaneously press the Power button. Your Steam Deck should boot into the BIOS menu.

If you follow the instructions as outlined and illustrated in this article, you should have no problem with the Steam Deck boot menu or Steam Deck recovery image as it may.

You can also check our detailed guide on Steam Deck stick drift issue for further solutions to fixing your Steam Deck.

Let us know how best this guide has helped you by using the comments area below.

How to Edit the Path Environment Variable in Windows 10

Posted on by Matthew Adams

The Command Prompt tool is the last remnant of DOS (a former command-based operating system) preserved in Windows. You can open software and run handy tools, such as the System File Checker, with it.

For example, you can run SFC by entering sfc /scannow without specifying any path. To open third-party software in Windows 10, you usually need to input an entire directory in the Command Prompt.

What is the path environment variable in Windows?

The Edit environment variable window enables you to add new paths to third-party software to open the programs without entering their complete directories in the Command Prompt.

The path environment variable tells your system where to find the SFC, but not the software. Moreover, this variable could be a handy setting for those who often use the Command Prompt.

Microsoft even replaced the Edit System Variable dialog in earlier Windows platforms with a new Edit environment variable path window in Windows 10.

Users can edit this system path variable, and we will show you how to do this in the guide below.

    How can I edit the path on Windows 10?

    The easiest way to edit the path variable in Windows 10 is through the View advanced system setting. There you can add, edit, or delete a path variable.

    After that, you can set the path that’s of interest to you and modify it in any way you want.

  1. 1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard or the Start button on your taskbar to open the search box.

  2. 2. In the Windows search box, type advanced system settings and click on the result.

  3. 3. When the System properties window opens, select View advanced system settings.

    view advanced system settings windows

  4. 4. Press the Environment Variables button to open the window shown below.

    edit path in windows 10 variables

  5. 5. You need to select the Path in the System variables box. Selecting the Path and pressing the Edit button opens the window shown directly below.

    edit path variable windows 10

  6. 6. The Edit environment variable window above includes the following path: C:\Windows\system32

    This is where the System File Checker tool is. To add your own path, press the New button.

    create new variable

  7. 7. Enter C: in the empty space and press the Browse button to select a folder (If you don’t enter something in the space for the new path, your selected folder directory replaces the path listed above it).

  8. 8. Select a folder that includes third-party software in the Browse for Folder window. For example, we selected a folder that includes Firefox.

  9. 9. Press the OK button on the Browse for Folder window to confirm the selection (The Edit environment variable window will include your selected path as in the snapshot below).

    edit mozilla variable windows 10

  10. 10. Click the OK button on the Edit environment variable window to close it.

  11. 11. Press the OK buttons on the Environment Variables and System Properties windows to close them.

  12. 12. Re-open the Windows search box and type cmd in it, then right-click on the result and select Run as Administrator, to open the app as below.

    open cmd window

A program’s executable doesn’t always match the exact software title. For example, we found that Opera’s executable was Launcher. As such, check the software’s executable title in File Explorer and then enter that in the Command Prompt.

You no longer need to enter C:\folder\sub-folder\sub-folder software title to open a program. This certainly comes in handy if you’re unsure of the software’s path.

This is a fairly simple process, and after following the steps above, setting, editing, or changing the path environment variable in Windows 10 should be more or less a formality.

You can learn more about how to view and manage all environment variables by checking this detailed guide on viewing environment variables in Windows.

If you have any other questions about the process, please leave them in the comments section below.

Windows 11 Refresh Shortcut: 2 Options to Use on PC

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Windows 11 brought new additions, overhauls, and improvements, but the default refresh key is still F5.

In this guide, we’ll show you 2 easy ways to refresh your desktop quickly.

How do I refresh my computer in Windows 11?

    1. Refresh Windows 11 via the context menu

    A quick and handy method to refresh your Windows 11 device’s screen is to use the built-in context menu. This menu can be accessed whenever you right-click on your desktop.

    From the context menu, depending on your Windows build, you will find the refresh option in two different places, as we will show you.

  1. 1. Navigate to your Desktop.

  2. 2. Right-click on any empty space on the Desktop to open the context menu.

  3. 3. If you are using the Windows build 22000.65 o or a newer one, you can find the Refresh button right here in the options. All you need to do is select it.

    how to refresh windows 11 via context menu

  4. 4. In case you’re using an older build, you need to click on Show more options (or press Shift + F10).

    show more options windows 11 refresh

  5. 5. You should now see the Refresh option and can click on it.

    refresh button windows 11 context menu

As you can see, for previous builds, the Refresh option wasn’t removed; it was just hidden under another set of options, which you can toggle by following the steps above.

Interestingly, some users stated that the feature was still in the right spot for them, so perhaps it depended on the Windows 11 version you were using.

If the Windows 11 desktop is not refreshing automatically, this guide will help you fix the problem.

Did you know that you can make Windows 11 look like Windows 10 again? Check out our quick guide that will show you how to do it.

Note icon NOTE
Not all the changes are final! We aren’t at the operating system’s final release, so everything is subject to change. Voice your opinion on the MS forums, as Microsoft needs all the feedback it can get to make Windows 11 the perfect system.

2. Use your keyboard

  1. Press the F5 key on your keyboard to refresh your desktop.
  2. Some keyboards or laptops require you to use Fn + F5 shortcut.
  3. After that, your screen will refresh.

Where is the refresh button located?

As we have mentioned right in the opening of this article, on most keyboards, the refresh button is the F5 key. For more information on how to activate it, check our previous section.

If you encounter any problems with the newly released operating system, we encourage you to do a factory reset. Here’s a great guide dedicated to resetting Windows 11 to factory settings.

That’s about it for this article. We have plenty of ways to refresh the desktop like you used to do in the previous Windows versions. Keep in mind that issues can sometimes occur, such as desktop that keeps refreshing.

If you have any other information we didn’t manage to include, please share it with us in the comment section below.

How to Set up & Switch Between Multiple Accounts on Steam Deck

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Many game enthusiasts have requested to know how to open multiple accounts on Steam Deck while playing the diverse or same game.

Some of the claims harvested are that it can be annoying to input their passwords every time they access the app.

This is why users are interested in discovering how they can make Steam Deck add accounts to the existing account(s).

Otherwise, logging in to the same account every time you turn on your PC becomes a drag. You can read further to learn how to set up and switch between multiple accounts on Steam Deck.

Can you switch accounts on the Steam Deck?

It is possible to switch accounts on the Steam Deck. What’s more, the individual accounts you open on a Steam Deck are capable of storing their own local save data and settings.

On your first launch of the steam app, you will be logged into your primary Steam account. You can log into multiple steam accounts by double-clicking the corresponding file anywhere on your start menu, Desktop, Taskbar, and so forth.

Can two Steam accounts play the same game?

Yes, two Steam accounts can play the same game simultaneously. To play the same game on two Steam accounts, you must own a copy of the game on each.

Although each Steam account library can only run games on one PC at a time, the library can be used to play the same game on all the PCs you own or share the game with.

How do I switch multiple accounts on my Steam Deck?

  1. Enter your login details and log into your primary steam account
  2. Tick the Remember my password or create a new Windows user. (For your secondary Steam accounts)
  3. Wait for Windows to finish setting up.
  4. Start the Steam app on the new Windows user.
  5. Log into your secondary Steam account and check the Remember my password box.
  6. Sign out from your secondary Windows user and sign back into your main Windows user.
  7. Initiate the command below to launch Steam and also log into your secondary account: runs /savecred /user:<DOMAIN>\<USER> "C:\Program Files(x86)\Steam\steam.exe"
  8. Replace <DOMAIN> with the domain name of your PC.
  9. Change <USER> with the username of the windows user you just created
  10. Change the file path to your steam.exe in your install directory: C:\Program Files(x86)\Steam\steam.exe
  11. Save the command in a .bat file on your desktop.

Whenever you double-click the file, Steam will launch and automatically log into the associated secondary account.

Is Steam Deck able to play offline?

Unless it is an online game, you can save your game on disk for offline use after its installation. This means you can play while Steam Deck is offline.

You can explore the steps in this article to learn how to set up multiple accounts on Steam Deck.

You can also check our detailed guide on how to change Steam Deck’s Resolution. If you forget your Steam password, this guide has seven possible ways to recover them.

Do not hesitate to use the comments section below if you have questions or comments.

3 Quick Ways to Adjust The Volume of Tabs in Chrome

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Several features come with using Google Chrome, one of which is that you can access the Chrome tab audio control settings. With this, users can adjust volume for individual tabs on the Chrome browser.

However, some users have reported they find it challenging to locate the chrome tab audio control or use it.

Hence, this article should provide users with possible ways to access chrome’s tab volume control and disable the sound on a tab. Work your way down the steps below to know which one you find easy to access.

Can I change the volume of individual tabs & Windows in chrome?

It is possible to adjust the chrome individual tab volume level of a video/audio on YouTube, Vimeo, Netflix, etc. The holdback is just that, not every website allows users to use chrome tab volume control.

However, you can rely on the Chrome volume control extension whenever this happens.

How do I control the volume on a Chrome tab?

1. Use Volume Master Extension

  1. Visit the Google Chrome web store to download & install the Volume Master extension on your web browser.
  2. After the installation, locate the Volume Master extension icon on the Extension bar at the top of your screen.
  3. Launch any tab to play audio.
  4. Click on the Volume Master extension icon.
  5. Drag the volume slider to control the volume of the playing audio or video.
  6. You can follow this same step to adjust the volume for other tabs.

2. Use Windows Volume Mixer

  1. Right-click on the Sound icon on the taskbar.
  2. Select Open Volume mixer and adjust the browser volume you are using here.

You can adjust different browser audio by using Windows Volume Mixer.

3. Update your sound drivers

  1. Press the Windows key, search Device Manager and launch it.
  2. Click on the Sound, video and game controllers option to activate the drop-down menu.
  3. Right-click on the sound driver.
  4. Select Update Driver from the drop-down menu.
  5. Select Search automatically for drivers.
  6. Wait for the update to finish.

Can I disable the sound on tabs?

It is possible to mute the sound for your browser tabs. Follow the steps below to know how to disable the sound on tabs:

  1. Right-click on the tab.
  2. Select the Mute option from the drop-down menu.

Although the above steps can mute sound for the site, Google Chrome permits users to use an extension to disable the sound on tabs.

You can work through the steps above to access your chrome tab volume control. You can also check our guide on how to fix Chrome no sound after the first video.

If you have any questions or suggestions, you can use the comments section below.

Best Ways to Download and Install Steam Deck Windows Drivers

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

The Steam Deck hasn’t been getting that many bad reviews, which means it’s a trustworthy portable machine for gaming. This device ships with SteamOS 3.0, an in-house-built modified Arch Linux distribution.

Valve, however, keeps reminding everyone that their new device is a PC, not a locked-down console. And it actually is, with Valve allowing users to install Windows 10 and 11 on Steam Deck and its drivers.

So, if you have been planning to install them, read through the following sections to learn all about them. As for those still wondering: is it worth installing Windows on Steam Deck?, rest assured this guide can help.

How can I download the Steam Deck Windows drivers?

Note icon NOTE
If you haven’t installed Windows on Steam Deck yet, download the Media Creation Tool, create a bootable MicroSD card, and then use it to install Windows. Once you’ve finished with the OS, you can also copy the drivers to the card and install them.
  1. Go to Steam’s official website and download the required drivers.Download to get steam deck drivers
  2. After downloading the drivers, right-click on individual folders and select Extract All. Then, do it for all the drivers.extract all
  3. Paste these on the MicroSD card and then plug it into Steam Deck.
  4. Please turn on the device, open the folder where the drivers are stored, launch the setup, and install them.

If you have just installed Windows on Steam Deck, it won’t be able to connect to the Internet. You must download and extract the driver files on a computer.

However, if you have a USB-C hub with an Ethernet port, use it to connect to the Internet. Once the OS has been established, you can then directly download and install Windows drivers on Steam Deck.

Will there be Windows drivers for Steam Deck? is one of the frequent questions users have. Yes, as you can see above, there are Windows drivers for Steam Deck. When the handheld gaming console was first launched, Valve confirmed it could run other operating systems, including Windows.

While initially, it only supported Windows 10 due to a lack of TPM support, the recent updates to the SteamOS now allow users to download Windows 11 as well.

And the best part, Valve has already released the Windows drivers for the console. The drivers currently available for download are:

  • Steam Deck Wi-Fi drivers
  • Audio drivers for Steam Deck
  • Steam Deck AMD Drivers
  • Steam Deck GPU Drivers

The audio driver was not available in the early days after launch, but these, too, can now be installed. This allows your Steam Deck to work as a fully functional Windows device.

How do I update my Steam Deck driver?

Until the compatibility aspect is fully polished, you can use Steam Deck’s Windows Resources page to download the latest version of all the drivers.

As many of you might have noticed when downloading them, the last update date is listed for some drivers.

Another critical thing to note is that since SteamOS now allows the installation of Windows 11, the available Steam Deck driver would also work on the latest iteration.

If Steam Deck doesn’t work as expected after you install Windows, you can reinstall SteamOS. The dual boot option is currently unavailable on Steam Deck, but we will update the guide once the functionality is released.

There are none for those looking for Steam Deck controller drivers to use the console to play games. Ensure you have the Steam app installed on the computer and that things are good.

Also, Valve has not launched the Steam Deck Linux drivers separately, so you must use the installed ones.

Besides, find out the best Steam Deck verified games and try them today. For more information, don’t hesitate to check our guide on how to download the Windows 11 Bluetooth driver for Steam Deck.

If you have any other queries or want help with the steps listed here, comment below.

Here is how you can enter for a chance to win this Game of Thrones custom Xbox Series S

Posted on by Robert Collins

Game of Thrones is now getting the custom Xbox treatment in the latest round of official custom Series S consoles. This one is more elaborate than most, featuring an Iron Throne display stand for the Xbox. The console itself features a Game of Thrones-themed motif, with the Targaryen three-headed dragon insignia prominently displayed.

Unfortunately, you won’t be seeing this in a store where you can buy it. The only way to nab this beauty is to win it in the official sweepstakes over on Twitter.

As you can see, the contest runs through October 26, 2022, so we will have to wait awhile to find out who will be the lucky fan that gets to take this home. This custom console celebrates the launch of the new HBO original series Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon.

You can check out the sweepstakes rules here.

Featured image via purexbox.com. 

Device Settings Not Migrated on Windows 11 [Error Fix]

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Not all device migrations go smoothly. Device settings not migrated is a widespread problem in Windows 11, and it can appear while upgrading from Windows 7 and 10.

The problem may also occur if you have already installed the operating system and a new update is installed. When upgrading to Windows 11, your device must also meet system requirements and other essential elements to function correctly.

Suppose you wish to retain your data, files, photos, and applications from a previous installation of Windows. In that case, you must select the option Keep personal files and apps when upgrading to Windows 11 for the first time.

When you upgrade to Windows 11, the installer checks your computer to see if there are any applications or settings that will not work well with the OS.  

If there are some issues, the installer presents you with a list of these applications and settings, so you can follow up on them after your upgrade is complete.

Why did my device settings fail to migrate to Windows 11?

Several reasons your device settings did not successfully migrate to Windows 11.

Some of the reasons include:

  • Malfunctioned or corrupted driver – This means that one or more of your driver’s migration processes has been interrupted or prevented from launching when the System was updating the OS or any other system feature. Should this be the case, proceed to our expert guide on how to remove a corrupted driver.
  • Driver incompatibility issues – When this happens, it’s often because of a specific compatibility problem with one of your drivers. In such cases, you will most likely need to install an updated driver version.
  • Outdated drivers – Sometimes, obsolete drivers can also be responsible for this problem. You should check for any new updates and try updating the device driver so that your PC gets compatible with Windows 11.
  • Faulty devices – Another common reason for this issue is a defective device connected to your computer. You will have to disconnect them and see if that helps.
  • Partial or ambiguous match – Device settings may also fail to migrate if there is a partial migration or a new ambiguous match that is not recognized.

What can I do if my device settings have not migrated to Windows 11?

1. Update the driver

  1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open Settings.
  2. Search for Device Manager and click Open.Windows device manager
  3. Navigate to your selected driver, right-click and choose Update Driver Software…
  4. Restart your device.

If you want to keep all drivers up-to-date, we recommend you use a third-party software tool to update the drive safely and faster than manually.

2. Uninstall and reinstall drivers

  1. Press the Windows key, search Device Manager, and click Open.Windows device manager
  2. Navigate to your desired driver, right-click and select Uninstall.
  3. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver as soon as you restart the PC.

3. Roll back to previous drivers

  1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously and select Settings.
  2. Navigate to System and select About on the right pane.
  3. Next, select Device Manager.
  4. Expand the device drivers, right-click and select Properties.
  5. Navigate to the Drivers tab, select Roll Back Driver, then press OK.
  6. Select your reason for the rollback, then press Yes.
  7. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.Reboot

Sometimes, you might the device not migrated error about your hardware devices like the keyboard, USB, mouse, and SSD. In this case, it is better to remove any recent drivers update and roll back to the last one that worked well

4. Update Windows

  1. Press the Windows key and search Check for updates.
  2. Hit Check for updates.
  3. If you have any pending updates, proceed to Download & install and then restart your System.

Outdated or wrongly updated operating System causes all sorts of problems, including error messages like device settings not migrated from previous OS installation. Installing the proper updates should fix the issue in this case.

What does it mean when a device migrates?

Device migration is the process of transferring data from one device to another. This process happens with device upgrades, load balancing, and hardware issues.

To ensure the process is successful, the original device you are transferring data from must have the requirements to perform the tasks needed for the migration.

Can I roll back to Windows 10 if the device settings fail to migrate?

If none of these options work, you can always roll back to Windows 10. If the device settings are more important than Windows 11, installing Windows 10 might be worth it cleanly.

Remember to back up all your files to avoid losing any information when you are rolling back. Feel free to check out our top solutions on the best backup software for your PC.

If you were experiencing this problem, we hope that one of our recommended solutions was able to come to your rescue, and now you are good to go.

We’d love to hear from you if you have any suggestions, comments, or queries. Share your thoughts in the comments section down below.

Microsoft and Blackbird to show off professional browser based video editor

Posted on by David Allen

Blackbird has announced it will be joining Microsoft at IBC 2022 to show off its browser-based professional video production software.  The cloud-native video production suite can be accessed on any platform via a web browser.  Its fast and scalable platform offers easy and collaborative access for any video production team.

Blackbird can be deployed on the Azure public cloud in minutes with just a few clicks.  Blackbird also supports Azure Blob storage for video ingest and publishing enabling a fully transparent workflow.  The video production software is also integrated with Azure Media Services to easily handle all streaming and video-on-demand needs.

A growing number of organizations are leveraging the Microsoft and Blackbird partnership for video production such as Deltatre and the National Rugby League (NRL). During IBC Blackbird will demonstrate how the software runs on the Azure platform and integrates with other media services for fast and efficient live content.

How to Get Rid of the Google Critical Security Alert Scam

Posted on by Claire Moraa

Google’s critical security alert scam has been making the rounds. It can be hard to tell if it’s a real warning or a phishing attack. 

Cyber criminals are tricking users into calling a toll-free number or visiting a website. Once a user falls into the trap, they will be prompted to provide their personal information. This includes credit card details and social security numbers.

Scams are getting more advanced, especially with Google given the number of people who use Google services. You may have also come across the Google voice scam so be sure to check out ways to prevent it. 

Why am I getting critical security alerts from Google? 

Google sends critical security alerts to your email address when they suspect that you may be at risk. You could be potentially compromised by a phishing attack or malware infection.

Such alerts mean that there is a high likelihood that someone knows your password. If so, the exposed information could be used to access your account or device without your permission.

Is the critical security alert from Google real? 

If you’ve received a notification from Google about a critical security alert, rest assured that it’s legitimate. However, you also need to be weary of what a fake email looks like. It is almost identical to the real thing, but contains a link to a malicious website instead of the real one. 

The sites look similar and can be hard to tell apart at first glance. But, if you spot any red flags such as misspelled words or unusual formatting, don’t click on them.

Does Google send security alert texts?

Google will send an alert to your email if they detect a security breach. You may also get the alert in form of a notification on your browser. It is best to respond immediately after potential data exposure to secure your account.

How do I get rid of critical security alert?

1. Go to Google Account Help

  1. Navigate to your browser and go to Google Account Help page.
  2. Scroll down and select Account security.
  3. Click on Suspicious activity.
  4. Select the Investigate suspicious activity on your account option.
  5. Now in the list that appears, select a setting you suspect has unfamiliar changes and rectify it.

How can I prevent Google’s critical security alert scam? 

To avoid falling victim to the Google security alert scam, you need to stay vigilant. Scams always have some red flags. These tips below will help you prevent such scams:

  • Don’t open suspicious attachments – If you were not expecting an attachment, avoid opening any. Unsolicited attachments could contain malicious code.
  • Check your account activity – Your account activity is a detailed trail of what you have been doing. It will show you all the logins and accesses made on your account in recent months. If you notice any unfamiliar sign-ins, your account may have been compromised.
  • Change your password – Changing your password is important in case someone has been using it without permission. Also, use strong passwords.
  • Enable two-factor authentication – Using multi-authentication software is a good security step in general. However, it’s especially important if you think your account may have been compromised. It will require anyone trying to access your account from an unverified device or IP address to enter a code. You will receive the code via text message or Google Authenticator.

Aside from the Google critical security alert scam email, you may also come across the Paypal Bitcoin scam email. Luckily, we have an article on how to spot and avoid it too.

As always, it is a good idea to install a reliable antivirus program that can detect any malicious activities from miles away and help secure your data.

Alternatively, you can opt for secure browsers that have security measures in place to avoid viruses and online threats.

If you are using the Chrome browser, you can install antivirus and security extensions to add an extra layer of protection.

Also, read about The “HoeflerText” font wasn’t found scam and protect your PC against all online threats!

Have you been a victim of such a scam before? Let us know what red flags you may have missed in the comments section below.

The /twitchgaming: ID@Xbox Fall Showcase is coming soon

Posted on by David Allen

Microsoft continues to highlight its indie game developer community through its ID@Xbox program and is once again, asking folks to come and celebrate them via the /twitchgaming: ID@Xbox Fall Showcase this September.

When Microsoft and Twitch partnered up last year to celebrate gaming developer talent, gamers and fans were treated to a showcase that included trailers and gameplay from titles such as Floppy Knights, Sam & Max Save The World, Stardew Valley and more.

This year the /twithgaming: ID@Xbox showcase will be kick off with a pre-show from Black Girl Gamers who will be running through some gameplay of Versus Evil’s multiplayer deception madness game, Eville, while the main event will feature updates for Metal: Hellsinger, You Suck at Parking, and more.

Good things are bound to happen when you mix ID@Xbox and /twitchgaming! Here we are once again to showcase updates and new announcements of amazing games coming to Xbox from independent developers. – Jessica Ronnell, Sr. PM – Events, Community & Partner Oboarding at Xbox

The pre-show kicks off Wednesday, September 14th at 9:30 a.m. PT and you can check out the 90-minute action stream at twitch.tv/blackgirlgamers or during the co-stream on Twitch.tv/twitchgaming or Twitch.tv/xbox.

In addition to the pre-show and main event, the Fall Showcase is said to have deep dives, announcements, interviews, and other trailers for fans including gameplay from Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed. September 14th at 10 a.m. PT. Here’s how you can join in.

Steam Deck has Been Released: Everything you Need to Know

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Valve has released a portable gaming device called the Steam Deck. The Steam Deck, available in February 2022, functions similarly to the Nintendo Switch. This device may be played handheld or by hooking up to a display.

Valve had earlier announced that Steam Deck running on Windows 11 would be a walk in the park as it already meets compatibility requirements.

Whether when using trackpads or thumbsticks, Steam Deck is perfect and designed for extended play sessions. It has full-size controls placed just where you need them.

Let’s go in-depth and tell you all you must know about this new exciting device.

Has the Steam Deck been released?

On February 25, 2022, Steam Deck was made available and is now being sent to Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

Additionally, the device is available via Komodo in South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, and it seems that other regions will follow.

According to Valve, which claimed to have resolved the initial supply chain problems, everyone who has reservations about purchasing the Steam Deck would receive it by the end of the year.

What is the Steam deck price?

Steam Deck’s price varies depending on your version; three variations are based on the device’s storage capacity. 

The different price ranges are below:

PriceCapacity
$39964GB
$529256GB
$649512GB

Steam Deck models’ lowest cost is marketed with a 64GB embedded multi-media card storage solution. However, the more expensive models include faster NVMe SSD storage. In addition, at least one MicroSD card may be used with all three models to expand capacity.

When can I expect my Steam Deck?

Since reservations for Valve’s Steam Deck were available last year, there has been a significant demand for it. And if you’re still expecting an order email to arrive, Valve promises everyone will get their Steam Decks before the end of the year.

You may receive your Steam Deck even if you make a new reservation. You may calculate when your order comes for a more pressed time.

How powerful is the Steam Deck?

The custom APU designed by Valve and AMD for the Steam Deck is well suited for portable gaming. It is a Zen 2 + RDNA 2 powerhouse that offers more than enough performance to play the most recent AAA games with minimal power.

Whether gaming with trackpads or thumbsticks, the Steam Deck was designed for extended gameplay activity, with full-size controls placed exactly where you need them. 

Your complete Steam Library appears after you log in to Steam Deck, like on any other PC.

Will there be a Steam Deck 2?

If you love Steam Deck, you can begin anticipating a Steam Deck 2, already announced to be in development.

Is the 512GB Steam Deck worth it?

When comparing the Steam Deck models, storage should be your priority. Although the virtual delights are all nice, they are unnecessary.

Having adequate room to load the games you like playing is crucial. At the release of Steam Deck, the most practical and affordable option is the $529 256GB model for most consumers. 

However, choose the $649 512GB Deck if your budget allows since it is unquestionably the best. 

We do not recommend the $399 64GB variant since it has a slower boot and run time unless you’re on a tight budget.

How much RAM does a Steam Deck have?

You can expect an LPPDR5 RAM of 16 GB. Additionally, it features 8 RDNA 2-based compute units.

Does Steam Deck have a mic?

Two microphones are integrated into the display face of the Steam Deck.

However, the internal microphone is turned off when a headset is connected to the 3.5mm connector using the Steam Deck. This happens since it expects all associated headsets to have a microphone.

Is Steam Deck a touch screen?

Yes, it is. The 7-inch touch screen on the Steam Deck features a 60Hz refresh rate and 1280 by 800 resolution.

Does Steam Deck have SSD?

The 256GB and 512GB models of the Steam Deck are specified in the original Steam Deck requirement to include a PCIe Gen3 x4 SSD.

Additionally, even the 64GB model with eMMC storage may be updated with a fresh SSD.

Can Steam Deck run all Steam games?

At release, a pocket of games does not run on Steam Deck. These included Apex Legends, Dead by Daylight, Fall Guys, Destiny 2, PUBG, Siege, Paladins, Smite, Black Desert Online, DayZ, and Hunt: Showdown.

However, most Steam games you love work flawlessly on the new device, and you should try out some of the most compatible Steam Deck games.

That is all you will need to know about this new device.

Have you got yours yet? Lastly, let us know your favorite games to play on the new device.

WoT Packet Loss: What Is It and How to Fix It?

Posted on by Vlad Constantinescu

WoT, short for World of Tanks, is a popular war strategic shooter released in 2010. If you’ve never played it before, it’s exactly what it sounds like. You get to control a tank (armored vehicle) and wreak havoc on your enemies.

The game still has a lot of popularity, despite receiving a lot of complaints regarding slow matchmaking, unbalanced gameplay due to the pay-to-win model, and a somewhat toxic community.

Yet players seem they can’t get enough and keep coming back. But aside from the issues listed above, which could be fixed by the upper management, WoT also faces a series of technical challenges.

Namely, those are high ping, jitter, and, you’ve guessed, packet loss.

Why is WoT so laggy?

Most of the time, you can experience much lag in games when your wireless connection is unstable, your game crashes or the graphics settings are not suitable.

Other potential factors can be the distance between you and game servers or network congestion in case there are too many players on the same connection.

Some users reported WoT issues regarding lag and packet loss specifying the next errors:

  • World of Tanks high ping
  • World of Tank lag, WoT blitz loss problem
  • World of Tank Blitz unstable connection

One may wonder if VPN can improve packet loss. Most certainly, VPNs can improve packet loss, but only if it occurs on the ISP’s side (bandwidth throttling or improper routing).

What is packet loss in WoT?

As with many other online services, packet loss in WoT happens whenever data packets you send or receive never make it to your destination.

As a result, other issues might occur, such as rubberbanding, delayed movement, or connection timeouts.

The thing is, packet loss isn’t necessarily evil, as it’s a quite natural phenomenon. Some packets simply get lost, the Internet isn’t the airtight vessel we like to believe it is.

That’s why most of the time, packet loss solves by itself. One of the main causes of packet loss is network congestion, and that’s why waiting is the best way to fix it. Simply avoid peak hours and you should be fine.

If you need to know how to fix packet loss in WoT, you can use a VPN for World of Tanks even if sometimes it might not work.

However, sometimes packet loss is a recurring issue and other times it even follows a pattern. That’s precisely when simply waiting just isn’t enough anymore. 

How to check packet loss in WoT?

  1. Download WGCheck from the official website.
  2. Extract the executable and launch it.
  3. Wait for the scanner to detect installed Wargaming Universe games.
  4. After the scan is complete, go to the Network tab.
  5. Choose the game where you lose packets (or suspect packet loss).
  6. Select the troublesome game server.
  7. Hit the Check button.
  8. After the diagnostic comes to an end, press Report.
  9. If you need to, press the Go to report button to see the log file.

Like Blizzard’s Looking-Glass tool and League of Legends’ Hextech Repair Tool, the WGCheck utility can be quite handy, especially if you have no technical background.

In case you’re wondering what is pathping, it is a useful Windows CMD tool that lets you perform a traceroute of your connection, while also returning ping and packet loss values for each of the hops.

However, you can simply skip the traditional pathping test and use WGCheck to see if there’s anything wrong with your WoT client and network. 

How to fix packet loss in WoT?

1. Use an optimized VPN for gaming

  1. Download ExpressVPN and install it.
  2. Launch it and log into your account.
  3. Select a suitable server and connect to it.
  4. Launch the WGCheck tool and run another test.
  5. Check if the problem still persists.

Note that using a VPN can be quite effective fix to this whole packet loss situation. However, it won’t work every time, especially not if the packet leaks happen on your side, or on the game servers.

Thus, it can only help you if your ISP causes packet loss by either routing the network improperly or throttling your bandwidth.

Nevertheless, a VPN can help you with more than just improving packet loss. For instance, it can circumvent geoblocking, boost your online privacy, and secure your connection.

2. Troubleshoot your connection manually

➡️ Switch to wired instead of Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi leaks packets more often).

➡️ Check/repair/upgrade/update/replace any faulty components on your home network (cables, PC, router, drivers)

➡️ Restart your router and/or modem.

➡️ Try connecting straight to your modem or home line.

➡️ Make sure no firewall or antivirus blocks communication attempts to the WoT servers.

➡️ Call your ISP and ask them to look into the matter (if the leak is on their side).

➡️ Contact the WoT support team and inform them of your findings (if the server seems to be having difficulties).

Why is my ping so high in World of Tanks?

The reasons why you have high ping scores in WoT have to do with a flawed network connection that also can generate packet loss.

To wrap it up, detecting packet loss in WoT isn’t difficult, considering that there’s a dedicated tool for the job.

You just launch WGCheck, select the game and server you’re having trouble with, and let it detect any issues.

When it comes to fixing, things might be a tad more complicated. Mostly because packet loss has a comes-and-goes nature, which means that it usually fixes itself.

However, sometimes this issue might start to follow a pattern, which is when you’d want to step in.

Because of this issue, users are wondering what is a good ping for WoT. To give you an answer, below 100 is the score you need for optimal gameplay in this war universe.

Using a VPN works most of the time, since many ISPs don’t have proper network routing, and some of them even throttle your bandwidth. These are exactly the cases when a VPN can solve packet loss.

Finally, check out the best VPNs for World of Tanks that can lower in-game lag or visit our Gaming hub if you want to discover more guides.

However, if that’s not the case, prepare to get your hands dirty with a bit of manual troubleshooting.

5 Best VPNs for Popcorn Time [Streaming Optimized Servers]

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

As there’s the chicken or egg dilemma, there’s also the question of whether art (which movies and TV shows certainly are) should be available to all, without the price tag.

A lot of avid followers of the media don’t have the access or funds to enjoy the latest projects and they turn to Popcorn Time and similar online tools to stream media, both contemporary blockbusters, TV shows, feature films, and documentaries, respectively.

However, even though the ethics side is unclear, the anti-piracy law is, as always, pragmatic and rigid.

So, today we’ll try to explain why one should use VPN when using Popcorn Time. Also, we made sure to offer some renowned VPN solutions that should do the job. Make sure to check it out below.

Do I need VPN for Popcorn Time?

Let’s skip on the whole morality scheme and stick with theft of intellectual property and boundaries imposed by the law.

There’s good reasoning behind saying that Popcorn Time is an illegal streaming service. Of course, it depends on the country you’re living in and the related law imposed.

However, to stream pirated movies or TV shows by using the torrent peer-2-peer sharing, without paying for them whatsoever is, indeed, a violation of digital distribution laws.

We won’t judge nor endorse this, but, let’s say that, hypothetically, you want to try out Popcorn Time. It’s not always as simple as it looks.

So based on everything we said, the answer to the question is simple: yes, you’ll need a VPN tool to utilize Popcorn Time.

Especially if you’re concerned with regulations and possible consequences of, to some extent, breaking the law. We prepared a list of VPN solutions that should come in handy for the tasks at hand.

? Can you get caught using Popcorn Time?

Firstly, certain countries or individual ISPs might block access to the download site, so you won’t be able to download the desktop client in the first place.

Also, even if you are able to do so, the aforementioned forces might stand in your way when you try to stream enlisted movies or TV shows.

Last but not least, you might as well play everything like no one’s watching, but they just might watch.

? Is Popcorn Time safe with VPN?

For sure, yes. With a VPN you can hide the IP address by switching the region/country and avoid geo-restrictions while preserving your privacy.

As we mentioned above, it’s actually advised that you connect to a VPN while using Popcorn Time in order to safeguard your online presence.

What is the best VPN to use with Popcorn Time?

ExpressVPN – Streaming optimized servers

ExpressVPN is another quite popular and omnipresent tool in this niche. It’s well-adjusted for both newcomers and more experienced users, with all the tools for the job.

It also comes in the premium version, with remarkable bandwidth speeds and unlimited data. It’s widely advertised as the go-to solution by various tech and security-oriented publications.

ExpressVPN has over 160 server locations in over 90 countries which make it a good candidate when it comes to surpassing restricted content.

The tool masks your Ip address and actual location so your activity will not be tracked down by your ISP. This means they will not be able to place any restrictions on your traffic and you will get a fast connection at all times.

ExpressVPN includes a split tunneling feature as well. It lets users pick which applications they want to route via a virtual private network and which ones will use local traffic.

This is another reliable and secure VPN service with private DNS on each server and top-level AES-256 encryption.

Along with that, it has a special set of security tools that block trackers and other malicious third parties. You can find it under the name Threat Manager within the main menu.

You also have hundreds of servers positioned in more than 100 countries, including Africa and the Middle East

ExpressVPN uses its own protocol which is built to be faster and more secure. 

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Simple to use with tutorials and user-friendly design
  • Consistent high performance in bandwidth speeds with the low latency readings
  • Bulletproof encryption
  • Multiplatform support for up to 5 devices simultaneously
  • Unlimited bandwidth and data

ExpressVPN is a subscription-based service with three plans available. Users have plenty of payment options including credit cards, payment platforms, and cryptocurrencies.

ExpressVPN

This trusted VPN ensures high-quality streaming on Popcorn Time.
Check price Visit website

Private Internet Access – Full-speed servers

Private Internet Access is simply the best VPN for streaming online. When it comes to truly liberating the internet and allowing free, unhindered access to worldwide content, PIA is your best bet.

Cleverly bypassing even the strictest of censorships, this VPN tool will tear one boundary after another in order to allow you to enjoy unrestricted access via a US-based IP address.

Its effective IP hiding feature is best designed for accessing Popcorn Time servers without ever exposing your identity or your real location.

You will be able to browse anonymously and enjoy the full advantages of high-grade encryption based on cryptographic algorithms and state-of-the-art security technologies.

Streaming on Popcorn Time is easy with PIA thanks to its multiple gateways with servers across 45 countries, including the US, UK, Japan, and more.

PIA is very careful with user data, having a strict no-logs policy. They do not store or sell any of your data or activity.

The tool lets you enjoy seamless streaming without any interruptions with the help of an integrated Adblocker.

Enable it and you will be able to load pages faster and won’t have to sit through unwanted advertisements.

Plus, enjoy unlimited bandwidth and no throttling to enjoy the unlimited and uncensored internet

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Includes a 7-day money-back guarantee
  • Tunneling technology to encrypt your traffic
  • Lo-logs policy for truly private and anonymous streaming
  • Supports up to 10 devices simultaneously
  • Integrated ads, trackers, and malware Blocker
  • Integrated firewall and filtering capabilities

Pia has three major subscription plans. You get the best deal if you pick the 3-year subscription. The service includes 24/7 customer support.

Private Internet Access

PIA is the best for streaming online, crafted for Popcorn Time!
Check price Visit website

NordVPN – Fastest connection speed

The same basically goes for NordVPN. Highly regarded as one of the best VPN solutions out there, with a substantial base of everyday users and various tech enthusiasts high-grading it.

The pricing might be a bit off, but certain users with premium needs will find this Tefincom & Co., S.A.-owned tool just a good fit in regards to the value versus price ratio.

NordVPN is ranked as one of the fastest VPN services with high download and upload speed rates. This is due to its high worldwide server coverage, but also because they use its own, performance-oriented VPN protocol, called WireGuard.

Not only will you be able to enjoy Popcorn Time regardless of your location, but you will be able to do so in a secure and fast manner.

NordVPN does not keep any logs of your private data and does not follow your traffic activity.

Another useful benefit to take into consideration, especially when you want to access geo-restricted content is the obfuscated servers provided by NordVPN.

These change your data packets so your ISP or streaming services providers will not be able to tell that you are using a VPN in the first place.

This means that the chances of you getting blocked or restricted because of VPN usage are extremely low.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Above-average privacy options
  • Great integration with the majority of apps
  • Fast and reliable bandwidth
  • Military-grade encryption
  • Convenient and user-friendly interface
  • Smart Play feature specially intended for streamers
  • Hundreds of servers in 60+ server locations all around the globe

NordVPN services are available under three major subscription plans. Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN

Looking for a VPN that works great with Popcorn Time? Check out NordVPN
Check price Visit website

Surfshark VPN – Multitude of servers globally

Surfshark is a great choice for users that want to connect multiple devices to Popcorn Time. This VPN service places no limit on the number of platforms you can connect to with one subscription.

This Surfshark LTD-owned VPN service has over 3000 servers worldwide, covering all major areas. So you will get access to content all around the globe regardless of your actual location.

The VPN can also improve your connection and let you get better video quality if you connect to a better server for your configuration.

Surfshark is also very secure. No third party will be able to track you or detect any of your online activity. 

They have a strict no-logs policy which means that they do not store any of your data.

Surfshark VPN also lets you hide your IP address so you can enjoy a seamless connection at all times. Your ISP won’t be able to place any throttling on your traffic as they won’t detect your actual traffic data.

This means that you will get high speeds even if you exceed a certain amount of traffic.

Other key features of Surfshark include:

  • Kill switch in case the connection drops
  • Private DNS on all servers
  • AES 256 encryption
  • Adblocker
  • Anti-tracking

Surfshark is one of the most budget-friendly VPN services on the market. It is subscription-based, but you can try it out for free and see how it works for you.

Surfshark

Surpass geo-restrictions and enjoy Popcorn Time content all around the world.
Free trial Visit website

CyberGhost VPN – Best encryption technology

Owned by Kape, CyberGhost is mostly our weapon of choice in these matters. We’re, indeed, endorsing it but that doesn’t cast a shadow on the overall reliability and functionality of this VPN tool.

Cyberghost allows you to stream as much content as you want. You get high speeds and good quality all month, as the service does not place any limits on bandwidth usage.

The tool has hundreds of locations across the whole globe, allowing you to connect from anywhere and surpass geo-restrictions.

The tool uses powerful 256-bit encryption and other security features such as Public Wi-Fi shields and a kill switch to make sure no data about your identity or activity gets leaked.

The tool includes anti-tracking features which block in real-time any potentially malicious websites. 

Cyberghost also has a split tunneling option that lets you use both local and virtual server traffic. You get to decide which applications or services to use with the VPN and which one to connect through your local network.

This can boost speed rates and let you connect to your local services while also browsing internationally.

The tool has multiple secure protocols including L2TP-IPsec and PPTP. It also supports OpenVPN.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • 4 encryption protocols
  • Great server speeds
  • No logging or registration needed
  • 58 countries with 600 servers spread all over the globe
  • Ease of use (utilizing this intuitive UI doesn’t require any pre-acquired knowledge)
  • Multiplatform support (you can use it on your PC/Mac and handheld devices)
  • Ad-blocker and anti-malware included

It comes only in the premium version which is, obviously, regulated by a monthly subscription. However, you can try it out for 7 days free of charge and decide on your own.

CyberGhost VPN

This VPN works like a charm with Popcorn Time, it’s affordable and simple to use!
Check price Visit website

How do I bypass VPN on Popcorn Time?

It’s possible to get through Popcorn Time using a VPN that has geo-blocking capabilities and can hide VPN traffic with optimized servers.

These features are included mostly with premium VPN accounts, so you have to prioritize your security on risky streaming platforms or while torrenting files on the web.

Can free VPNs work for Popcorn Time?

As long as they are able to provide enough servers to ensure good speed rates, free VPNs should be just fine.

However, considering that privacy is one of the major concerns that you want to take care of with a VPN, make sure to check whether your VPN keeps track of your data.

Many users report that free VPN, although allowing you to change your IP and connect to various locations, keep track of and even sell your data to third parties (generally for marketing purposes).

For this reason, we advise you get a premium-level VPN because they implement a transparent privacy policy, most of them with 0 activity logs. 

Apart from that, another downside of free VPNs is that they place restrictions on traffic. Some even have a limited number of servers that you can use on a daily and won’t allow a connection once you run out.

That should do it. We’re certain that most VPNs will provide you with enough tools to use Popcorn Time privately and without boundaries. However, the ones we enlisted above check all the boxes.

If you have an alternative VPN you’ll gladly recommend, be sure to do so in the comments section below.

Best VPN with Thailand Servers to Freely Access Thai Content

Posted on by Vlad Constantinescu

If you’re trying to watch Thai TV shows from outside of Thailand, you probably know that it’s not exactly easy to do so.

Despite that many Thai TV channels offer their live streams to customers for free, there’s a catch. You must be physically in Thailand to watch them.

Fortunately, Thai TV show enthusiasts have quickly figured out a way to circumvent this restriction: using VPNs.

Although VPNs are generally regarded as the ultimate privacy-protection tool, many choose to use these services for bypassing geo-restrictions.

Before we start, it’s important we mention that all VPNs in this article are fit to be used outside of Thailand, to access Thai content.

With that in mind, read along to learn about the VPN services with Thailand-based servers.

Does Thailand allow VPNs?

Yes, it’s sure legal to use a VPN in Thailand. You can access restricted websites like streaming platforms or services from far away regions.

From case to case, it’s possible to encounter region-blocked content in Thailand due to government laws and ISP monitoring users’ activities.

??‍? Do I need a VPN in Thailand?

You may need to use VPN protection in Thailand because of web access restrictions.

There are specific websites you can’t reach in this country such as gambling sites, social media content that is considered harmful to the country, or adult content.

??‍? Which VPN works in Thailand?

You can have multiple VPN software for this country, as they are available for public use. For instance, the first pick in our list will definitely work.

But not all VPNs can bypass Thailand’s geo-blocking. In any case, some of those who offer virtual/physical servers in Thailand has a pretty solid chance.

If you’re looking for the best VPNs to use while in Thailand, that’s a whole different story.

Which VPNs have servers in Thailand?

ExpressVPN – Great server connection in Thailand

ExpressVPN should be your first solution to connect to Thailand servers due to its extensive server locations and supersonic speeds.

The VPN will offer you innovative privacy and unlimited bandwidth. This way, you’re able to access blocked websites or services in Thailand from any location you are.

It also includes strong encryption and private DNS for each server. With TrustedServer technology, you enjoy free access to restricted content with a high-speed connection.

You can as well block ISP throttling and government limitations for content in this country. That gives you online freedom and the opportunity to use the unlimited bandwidth network.

 More so, you can utilize this VPN service with multiple OSes such as Mac or Windows devices, mobile systems, tablets, or even routers.

ExpressVPN main features:

  • Access for all blocked websites anywhere
  • AES-256-bit encryption
  • DNS leak protection
  • VPN Speed test
  • Split tunneling benefit
  • Zero logs policy

ExpressVPN

Take advantage of exhaustive privacy while navigating free content using Thailand servers connection.
Check price Visit website

NordVPN – Biggest server network

NordVPN is one of the greatest VPN services that offer Thailand-based servers. More precisely, NordVPN currently has 7 Thailand servers.

This can come in extremely handy if you’re trying to watch Thai TV shows from abroad or access various country-restricted services or websites.

However, this service is also extremely competent when it comes to protecting your privacy and keeping your connection airtight.

Its zero-logging policy combined with military-grade encryption and various features makes it an excellent VPN.

NordVPN’s main features:

  • Strict no-logging policy
  • AES 256-bit encryption
  • 5492 high-speed servers in 59 countries
  • Double VPN (hops your connection twice)
  • Ad and malware blocker
  • P2P/torrenting fully supported
  • Optimized for streaming
  • Obfuscated servers to prevent detection

NordVPN

Do you need a VPN service with servers in Thailand? NordVPN might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Check price Visit website

Surfshark – Clever privacy tools

Surfshark is an awesome VPN service, there’s no way around it, and a great addition to our list.

Besides its Thailand servers that make it relevant to our cause, Surfshark is also one of the few (actually it’s currently the only one) VPNs that can spoof your GPS location.

You heard us right. So, not only will your IP address be changed to match a location in Thailand, but your GPS coordinates will also match your IP, making it extremely difficult for others to pinpoint your exact location.

Furthermore, like any great VPN service, it also features many privacy/security capabilities that will help you keep your online identity safe. Just take a look below.

Surfshark’s key features:

  • Zero-logging policy enforced
  • Military-grade encryption
  • More than 3200 fast servers in 65 countries
  • Private DNS on every server
  • P2P/torrenting allowed on all servers
  • Unlimited devices on the same account
  • Camouflage mode (obfuscation)

Surfshark

Not only does Surfshark have Thailand-based servers, but it will also spoof your GPS location.
Check price Visit website

CyberGhost VPN – Quick server speed

CyberGhost is an excellent all-around VPN service brought to you by Kape Technologies that has servers in Thailand.

More precisely, it currently has a single server in Bangkok, but we can expect this amount to increase at any point, given CyberGhost’s ever-growing server network.

If you need a VPN that can protect your privacy, keep your connection secure, and let you watch Thai TV shows without restrictions, then CyberGhost VPN is definitely what you’re looking for.

CyberGhost VPN’s key features:

  • Zero-logging policy
  • 256-bit military-grade encryption
  • 6200 servers in over 84 countries
  • Unblock various streaming services
  • Access geo-restricted content
  • P2P/torrenting supported

CyberGhost VPN

Looking for VPNs with Thailand-based servers? CyberGhost VPN might be just what you need.
Check price Visit website

ZenMate VPN – Restricted content access

Yet another Kape Technologies-signed VPN service that offers a Thailand (Bangkok) server, ZenMate VPN promises to deliver more than just geoblock bypassing capabilities.

It has high-speed servers in 71 different countries, and its privacy/security features can definitely keep your online identity safe and your connection airtight against various malicious agents.

This VPN software can unblock many streaming services and websites with restricted content from this Asian region.

That being said, this solution is worth a shot for its network connectivity and region-blocked access from any country.

ZenMate VPN’s main features:

  • Strict no-logging policy
  • Strong 256-bit encryption
  • 2400 servers in more than 71 countries
  • Supports P2P/torrenting
  • Unlimited devices on the same account

ZenMate VPN

Having a hard time finding VPNs with servers in Thailand? You should check out ZenMate VPN.
Check price Visit website

VyprVPN – Best anonymity benefits

VyprVPN may be the last on our list, but that doesn’t make it any less competent than other VPNs we’ve mentioned.

It has a Thailand server (Bangkok) and thus can help you bypass geo-restrictions and watch your favorite Thai TV shows in no time.

But that’s not all. VyprVPN also has a great set of tools that can help you protect your privacy and keep your connection safe while connected to its servers. Take a look at its key features below.

Hence, this VPN tool ensures ultimate anonymity and expansive security tools in order to secure your digital presence.

VyprVPN’s essential features:

  • Enforces a strict zero-logging policy
  • Chameleon VPN to prevent detection
  • VyperDNS to prevent DNS leaks
  • VyprVPN Cloud
  • More than 700 VPN servers with over 200k IP addresses
  • Dynamic server switching
  • Supports P2P/torrenting

VyprVPN

Are you searching for VPNs with servers in Thailand? Why don’t you give VyprVPN a try, for a change?
Check price Visit website

How do I get a Thailand IP address?

There are some people that have questions like does ExpressVPN have Thailand or how do I access a website in Thailand? For all of these, we have an explanation down below.

In case you’re still wondering how to mask your IP with Thailand addresses, this is how to accomplish it:

  1. Sign up for a VPN account (ExpressVPN recommended)
  2. Install the software on your PC.
  3. Login to your account.
  4. Click on the three dots on the software.
  5. Search for Thailand and click on it.
  6. Press the On button to connect for Thailand IPs.

This short guide should respond to how do I change my VPN to Thailand question, so go ahead and navigate without blocks.

As you can see for yourself, there are plenty enough VPN services that offer servers in Thailand, regardless of what you need them for.

While all of the VPNs we’ve listed here are great at circumventing Thai geo-restrictions, there are subtle differences between them.

You can visit the traveling section to learn more about using a VPN while traveling. Check out our VPN hub to discover more about the perks of using a VPN regularly.

Ultimately, your needs and expectations from a VPN service will help you make the best choice.

5 Best VPNs for Conan Exiles to Fix Lag and Lower Ping

Posted on by Elena Constantinescu

If you’re looking for a quick Conan Exiles lag fix, just use a VPN, since it’s the fastest solution.

Conan Exiles is a survival game that takes place in the lands of Conan the Barbarian. It has a single-player mode as well as a multiplayer version for players who prefer online co-op and PvP. You can play it on Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Steam.

If you have high ping and want an easy way to fix Conan Exiles lag, you can download and install a powerful VPN to connect to its servers. A VPN is not only great for securing your Internet traffic and protecting you against identity theft, but you can also lower your ping with a VPN.

What you need is a reliable virtual private network solution that comes equipped with fast VPN servers and top-of-the-line security features. Plus, you can reduce packet loss with a VPN during gameplay.

Why is Conan Exiles so laggy?

Conan Exiles lag can be caused by various connectivity problems, such as a restricted network at the office, school, or on campus, bandwidth throttled by your ISP, or even incorrect IP configuration over Wi-Fi.

You may find yourself during battle rage in the following scenarios or issues:

  • Conan Exiles high ping can result in Conan Exiles ping 9999, and the game freezes
  • Conan Exiles lag spikes can be the cause of Conan Exiles’ lagging PC, thus it may be GPU overheating
  • Conan Exiles PS4 lag and potential Conan Exiles lag fix Xbox One can be resolved with a VPN
  • Conan Exiles server lag Conan Exiles lag when moving are connection latencies from the server

If you’re wondering how to reduce lag in Conan Exiles, just use a VPN to improve your ping.

What are the best VPNs to fix Conan Exiles lag?

ExpressVPN – Best to bypass ISP throttling

Although it is not the fastest VPN on the market, ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPNs for gaming because it helps with network congestion and ISP throttling your connections.

However, speed isn’t always the be-all and end-all when it comes to VPNs, and it depends on what you’ll be using yours for. If your VPN is always on, speed is critical, but if you only use it occasionally – for public hotspots, torrents, or avoiding your browser being tracked – speed isn’t as important.

Because of its large selection of servers in the United States, ExpressVPN is ideal for Conan Exiles.

ExpressVPN is encrypted with the best level of encryption available, AES 256-bit. It’s virtually unbreakable, so no worries there.

On their website, you also get a kill switch that stops all traffic if your connection drops, as well as a DNS leak test option. ExpressVPN handles DNS leaks automatically.

More about ExpressVPN:

  • Strong security and privacy
  • Secure apps for virtually any operating system or devices
  • Lightway VPN protocol added for better performance
  • Large, secure server network
  • Good streaming and torrenting performance
  • Dedicated VPN router app
  • Excellent support and refund policy

Although the settings are limited, we have run numerous leak tests and found no DNS leaks in Conan Exiles. According to the official website, ExpressVPN does not log any data and will never do so. The main advantage of using ExpressVPN is its transparency.

ExpressVPN

Fix connection latencies within the game servers by connecting to this gaming-optimized VPN.
Check price Visit Website

Private Internet Access – Fixes packet loss

The easiest way to deal with Conan Exiles lag spikes is by using Private Internet Access (PIA). It’s a premium VPN solution developed by Kape Technologies, which has numerous VPN servers optimized for gaming, streaming, and torrenting. You can also use it to evade geoblocks.

PIA provides anti-DDoS protection and defends your Wi-Fi connection from hacker attacks. You can use it to host game servers, protect your browsing sessions with an integrated ad blocker, and speed up your Internet connection for gaming.

Furthermore, PIA supports port forwarding, split tunneling, and a kill switch. And, if you ever stumble upon any technical issues when trying to fix Conan Exiles server lag, you can take advantage of the 24/7 live chat support.

More about PIA:

  • +3,300 VPN servers in 48 locations
  • Compatible with Windows, PS4, Xbox One
  • 10 simultaneous device connections
  • An ideal Conan Exiles VPN solution
  • 30-day money-back guarantee (no free trial)

Private Internet Access

If Conan Exiles is always lagging, use this VPN tool to quickly lower ping.
Check price Visit Website

NordVPN – Best to use double VPN

NordVPN offers a simple solution for repairing Conan Exiles server lag. It’s a VPN solution made by Tefincom & Co., which comes with high-speed VPN servers worldwide and top-notch security options. It’s ideal for fixing Wi-Fi packet loss.

NordVPN uses CyberSec, an exclusive piece of technology that protects your browser from phishing and other malware. It can fix Xbox packet loss and bypass VPN blocks by switching to obfuscation mode.

With support for the OpenVPN protocol, NordVPN can encrypt your gaming traffic without sacrificing network speed, making it ideal for fixing Conan Exiles lag. Plus, you can easily switch off your VPN.

More about NordVPN:

  • +5,100 VPN servers in 59 countries
  • Can be used on Windows, PS4, Xbox One
  • Up to 6 connections at once
  • A great VPN for Conan Exiles VPN
  • 30-day money-back guarantee (no free trial)

NordVPN

Get rid of high ping and lag in Conan Exiles by turning to this trustworthy VPN.
Check price Visit Website

Surfshark – Most budget-friendly

Surfshark is the most affordable VPN for gaming, and to use it to play Conan Exiles is the best option for beginners.

We tested the app on a Mac, Windows PC, iPhone, and Android, and the design is very user-friendly. The speeds are quite good, and we typically experience a 20% speed drop when connecting to the nearest servers.

Unlimited devices are a big plus because they allow you to share them with family members or online friends.

There are some drawbacks to streaming, such as connection drops, but we haven’t had any problems when streaming on Discord or YouTube Conan Exiles.

More about Surfshark:

  • Country of registration: British Virgin Islands
  • Clients supported: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Number of servers: 3,200+
  • Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
  • Free unlimited global bandwidth

When compared to larger VPNs like PIA, it lacks servers in less popular countries, and the server selection is limited to a country and city.

Surfshark

Whitelist split tunneling lets you choose which sites should be routed outside the VPN tunnel.
Check price Visit Website

CyberGhost – Optimized servers for gaming

CyberGhost VPN is another great solution for reducing server lag in Conan Exiles. Operated by Kape Technologies, this VPN tool has an extensive network of servers to help improve your gameplay and minimize jitter.

When using CyberGhost VPN, you can connect to the recommended VPN server to achieve maximum speed. It’s an excellent virtual private network service for fixing Conan Exiles lag and dealing with network congestion.

You can either redirect all network traffic through VPN or enable split tunneling to isolate Conan Exiles VPN traffic from other applications that are directly connected to the web.

More about CyberGhost VPN:

  • +6,500 VPN servers in 89 locations
  • Compatible with Windows, PS4, Xbox One
  • 7 simultaneous device connections
  • An ideal Conan Exiles VPN solution
  • 45-day money-back guarantee (1-day free trial)

CyberGhost VPN

Quickly fix Conan Exiles lag on PC, PS4, and Xbox using this dependable VPN.
Check price Visit Website

How do you make Conan Exile run better on PC?

✅ When Conan Exiles keep freezing PC try to update game patches often to avoid it
✅ Conan Exiles loading time can be long due to servers being overloaded, but it can be fixed if you connect to a private server in one of the VPNs optimized for gaming.
✅ Conan Exiles optimization is mostly done when you download and install the latest card graphic drivers for the game to be managed more easily.
✅ Conan Exiles graphics settings can be toggled in the Steam launch options and the in-game settings for the best FPS and lag-free performance in Conan Exiles.

To find out more about this game, check out our Conan Exiles Hub. Follow our Gaming VPN section to fix in-game ping and packet loss issues.

However, the best and quickest way to improve your gaming experience in Conan Exiles is to use a VPN that has fast servers, fixes ISP throttling, and provides dedicated IPs.

To summarize, if you’re experiencing latency issues and are looking for a quick Conan Exiles lag fix, you can’t go wrong by getting a powerful VPN solution with high-speed servers and practical security features, especially DDoS protection.

It doesn’t matter on which platform you wish to play this game since all are exposed to vulnerabilities and lag due to connection issues. You can use a VPN to not only reduce high ping but also minimize packet loss.

Speaking of the game, if you are facing other game errors like Authentication failure, we have a separate guide on it.

How to Restrict User Access to Programs in Windows 10

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Network administrators might need to block user access to certain Windows 10 programs for various reasons.

There are a few ways that network administrators, and anybody else, can block users from running certain software on their desktops or laptops.

Users can apply locks to folders or add passwords to programs with third-party software. However, users can also block access to programs in Windows 10 without any third-party software as follows.

How can I restrict access to only certain programs for users on Windows 10?

1. Block Software from running by editing the Registry

Users can stop certain programs from running by editing the registry. It might be worth setting up a system restore point before editing the registry so you can undo the changes if required. Then, follow the guidelines below.

  1. First, press the Windows key + R hotkey.
  2. Enter regedit in Run’s Open text box, and select the OK option.
  3. Next, open this registry path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies.
  4. If there isn’t an Explorer key under Policies, right-click the Policies key on the left of the window to select New > Key. Enter ‘Explorer’ as the key name.
    block access to programs Windows 10
  5. Select the new Explorer key. Then right-click an empty space on the right of the Registry Editor window and select New > DWORD (32-bit).
  6. Enter ‘DisallowRun’ as the title for the new DWORD.
  7. Double-click the new DisallowRun DWORD to open its Edit DWORD window.
  8. Enter ‘1’ in the Value data box as shown directly below, and click the OK button.
    block access to programs Windows 10
  9. Next, right-click the Explorer key to select New > Key.
  10. Then input ‘DisallowRun’ as the title for the new subkey.
  11. Right-click the new DisallowRun subkey to select the New and String Value context menu options.
  12. Now enter ‘1’ as the string value name.
    block access to programs Windows 10
  13. Double-click the 1-string value to open the Edit String window.
    Then enter the exact name of the software’s executable file that you need to stop running in the Value data box as shown directly below.
    block access to programs Windows 10
  14. Click the OK button to close the Edit String window.
  15. Close the Registry Editor window.
  16. Now, the blocked program will display the error message shown below when users try to launch it.
restrictions prompt

Some users might not need to set up an Explorer key if there’s already one there under the Policies subkey. If so, users can skip the step for setting up a new Explorer key.

Open the Computer HKEY_CURRENT_USER Software Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Policies Explorer path in the Registry Editor. Then, add the DisallowRun subkey to the existing Explorer key instead.

To set up blocks for more software, users will need to enter different names for string values within the DisallowRun key. For example, the string value names within the DisallowRun key for the second and third program blocks will need to be 2 and 3 as shown below.

If you’re establishing a seventh program block, enter 7 as the string value title.

block access to programs Windows 10 disallow run

    2. Block user access to programs in Windows 10 via Group Policy Editor

    Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise include the Group Policy Editor tool, with which users can stop programs running without editing the registry.

    Users can adjust a Run only specified Windows applications setting with the Group Policy Editor. Moreover, you can configure access to some software to only be restricted for all or only certain users.

  1. 1. Press the Win + R keys at the same time on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.

  2. 2. Enter gpedit.msc in the text box, and then click the OK button to open the Group Policy Editor.

    gpedit windows 11 optional features empty

  3. 3. Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Templates on the left of the Group Policy Editor window.

  4. 4. Double-click on Run only specified Windows applications to open that setting’s window.

  5. 5. Select the Enabled option on the Run only specified Windows applications window.

  6. 6. Press the Show button to open a Show Contents window.

  7. 7. Then click a line on the Show Contents window to enter the executable file name of the program to block. Some users might need to open the software’s folder to check what exe file name they need to enter.

  8. 8. Press the OK button.

  9. 9. Click the Apply and OK buttons on the Run only specified Windows applications window. These guidelines will block the program for all users on a device.

  10. 10. To block the software for a specific user, you’ll need to add the Group Policy Object Editor snap-in to the Microsoft Management Console. Then you can configure policies to apply to specific users as follows.

  11. 11. First, press the Win key + Q keyboard shortcut.

  12. 12. Enter mmc.exe in the search box, and select to open mmc.exe.

  13. 13. Click Yes on the UAC prompt window that might open.

    mmc exe

  14. 14. Then click File > Add/Remove Snap-in to open the window shown directly below.

    add console root

  15. 15. Select Group Policy Object Editor on the left of the window.

  16. 16. Press the Add button.

  17. 17. Click Browse on the Select Group Policy Object window that opens.

  18. 18. Select the Users tab.

  19. 19. Then select an account to apply the policies to.

  20. 20. Press the OK button.

  21. 21. Click the Finish option.

  22. 22. Select the OK option on the Add or Remove Snap-ins window.

  23. 23. Click File >Save As on the console window.

  24. 24. Enter a file title in the Save As window, and click the Save button.

  25. 25. Thereafter, double-click the saved MSC file to apply the block program policies to the selected account group.

    That will launch the Group Policy Editor window from which you can select to block a program as outlined above.

That’s how users can block access to programs in Windows 10. You can unblock the software by erasing the new string values in the registry or disabling the Run only specified Windows applications setting.

However, to ensure that you can always undo registry changes, set up system restore points before establishing program blocks. Then, you can reverse changes made even to admin accounts by rolling Windows back to the restore point.

We hope you found this article helpful and managed to restrict user access to programs you don’t want them to open. Besides, you can block Internet access for specific apps in Windows to enjoy seamless network connectivity.

Let us know in the comments section below if you have any questions.

How to Remove Preinstalled Windows 10 Apps in Powershell

Posted on by Matthew Adams

Windows 10 includes a series of preinstalled apps that you can’t uninstall by selecting Uninstall options on their Start menu context menus or via Control Panel.

This is a nuisance for users who do not wish to use those apps and want them home from their computers as soon as possible.

Can I uninstall the built-in Windows 10 apps?

Yes, you can actually get rid of preinstalled apps that come with your Windows 10, even though the traditional method does not work.

There is a workaround for this and it involves using Powershell. Read on to find out more.

    How can I delete Windows 10 apps for all users?

    If you’re looking to remove the default apps from a Windows 10 image, you can quickly do that with PowerShell. It is a built-in command line tool that can modify your PC via commands.

    With PowerShell, you can remove built-in UWP apps from all your laptop’s or desktop’s user accounts. You can quickly uninstall one or all the preinstalled apps for all the user accounts on your device through the usage of the remove-appxpackage all users script command.

  1. 1. Press the Windows button on your keyboard to open the Windows search box.

  2. 2. Type PowerShell in the search box.

  3. 3. Right-click on the result and select Run as Administrator from the list of options.

    run powershell as administrator windows

  4. 4. PowerShell will now be opened on your device and you can begin typing commands into it.

    powershell open app

  5. 5. Input the following command and then press Enter to run it: Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName

    This command will display a list of all the apps that are installed on your Windows 10 PC. Each of them will have a specific package name in the column on the right, called PackageFullName.

    This is an example of a package full name: Microsoft.XboxApp_41.41.18005.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe.

    You can copy the package names for all the apps and note them down in a text document of your choosing, such as Notepad.

    Note that you can shorten the package full names by including wildcards (**) around them. For example, you can enter *xboxapp* instead of Microsoft.XboxApp_41.41.18005.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe for the Xbox app .

    remove windows 10 app in powershell

  6. 6. Now you can begin uninstalling apps. You can choose to uninstall an app for one or all users on your device.

    In order to only remove an app from a single user account, you would type the following command, and then press Enter :Get-AppxPackage PackageFullName | Remove-AppxPackage

  7. 7. However, to uninstall the app from all user accounts you need to include -AllUsers in the command. Thus, the command becomes: Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers PackageFullName | Remove-AppxPackage

    For example, to uninstall the Xbox app you would enter the following: get-appxpackage -AllUsers *xboxapp* | remove-appxpackage

    remove appxpackage all users example xbox

  8. 8. Now, if you want to uninstall all the preinstalled apps for all user accounts, you need to type the following command: Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers | Remove-AppxPackage

    remove-appxpackage all users command

Can I reinstall the preinstalled apps on Windows 10?

You can also reinstall those built-in apps if required. To do so, you need to use PowerShell with admin rights once more.

Once you open PowerShell, type Get-AppxPackage -allusers | foreach {Add-AppxPackage -register "$($_.InstallLocation)appxmanifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode} and press Enter.

To reinstall a single app, enter Add-AppxPackage -register "C:Program FilesWindowsAppsPackageFullNameappxmanifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode in PowerShell instead.

reinstall preinstalled apps on windows 10

If you need additional info on what to do if the Windows 10 default apps are missing, check out our dedicated article.

So that’s how you can uninstall preinstalled Windows 10 apps you really don’t need for all users. Just make sure the other users don’t need the apps before you uninstall them using the remove-appxpackage all users command.

Better yet, you can remove common group apps if you just want to get rid of them from your Start Menu to ensure other users are not affected.

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

Blizzard Looking Glass: What Is It and How to Use It?

Posted on by Vlad Constantinescu

Blizzard‘s Looking-Glass is a handy network troubleshooting tool that can help you figure out if there’s something wrong with your connection. Needless to say, it only works with Blizzard services and games.

However, considering that Blizzard’s services are mostly online, having such a tool can save you a lot of hassle.

Although we have other articles explaining how to run a packet loss test with pathping, using a dedicated tool such as Looking-Glass can be much easier.

Instead of looking up servers for the game or service that you have problems with, you can just turn to this tool. It’s easy enough that even PC novices can use it without too much effort.

What is Looking Glass used for?

The Blizzard Looking Glass tool is great for checking for downstream issues on some ISPs to verify packet loss, traceroute, and the Blizzard ping test. This Looking Glass speed test starts from the Blizzard servers and shows the route to your servers, including the pathping IP.

If all the results are coming back as 100% loss, this just means the test is being filtered or blocked by the browser. Due to the global impact of recent world events on network bandwidth, there are tons of things impacting everyone’s latency to all games.

The greater the distance between the client and the servers, the greater the impact. In your tests, the ping should be normal until it reaches your ISP, and that’s where all the issues start, with ISP throttling.

How do you install Looking Glass?

Unfortunately, you can’t download the Looking-Glass tool to your PC, as it’s exclusively an online service. However, accessing it is not exactly rocket science.

You just have to navigate to the correct address and you should be facing Blizzard’s network diagnostics tool in no time. Its design is minimalistic and embraces a dark theme, so it’s easy-going on your eyes, as well.

How do you use Glass Looking Blizzard?

  1. Head to the Looking-Glass URL.Looking Glass
  2. Select your region from the region combo menu.
  3. Choose the service from the corresponding menu.
  4. Select the tests you want to run.
  5. Hit the Run Test button.
  6. Wait for the test results to appear in the Test Result section.

What do Looking Glass sites show you?

The Battle.net account checker can be helpful to verify your account in the browser by login in through the Battle.net Authenticator. It offers an additional layer of security against unauthorized account access on up to three Battle.net accounts.

Blizzard’s Battle.net Looking Glass response times and packet loss may experience significant spikes. If you have issues with this connection and your gameplay suffers as a result, you should run a Battle.net client troubleshooting, and a Battle.net speed test.

▶ Traceroute
By testing the connection from our servers to your computer, trace routes can help identify where connection problems occur. A traceroute report shows the exact path a data packet takes to reach its destination.
Any of the following issues in your traceroute report may indicate a problem with your connection:

  • (asterisk) symbols for timeouts
  • The number values range from low to high.
  • The figures are consistently high.

▶ Ping
A ping test, unlike a traceroute, does not record the path the packet took. A ping test will notify you if our servers are unable to reach your computer. If you notice any of the following issues in your ping report, it may indicate a connection problem from your ISP servers to your location:
?Packets loss
?Fast response time
A ping may fail due to network security rather than actual connection issues.

You can only choose between Korea, the United States, and Europe, as far as regions are concerned. The services menu is richer and holds the following options you can test for ping and packet loss:

  • Battle.net Authentication
  • Battle.net Websites
  • Diablo 3
  • Hearthstone
  • Heroes of the Storm
  • Overwatch
  • StarCraft 2
  • Starcraft Remaster
  • WoW Classic
  • World of Warcraft

Blizzard Looking-Glass 100 packet loss issue

Some users report getting 100% packet loss from Blizzard’s Looking-Glass network diagnostics tool. However, this shouldn’t be a serious reason for concern, since most of the time it’s just a matter of interpretation.

For instance, we’ve run the test several times and got 100% packet loss on a bunch of nodes (intermediary). On the bright side, the service (World of Warcraft) worked flawlessly.

On the other hand, other users reported Looking-Glass’s results showed 0% packet loss, while the game or service was impossible to access or play.

Our advice would be to take it with a pinch of salt.

CMD pathping

If you want to check if there’s any discrepancy between the standard test (pathping) and Looking-Glass, run both and compare the results. You might be surprised.

How to fix packet loss?

1. Try using a VPN

  1. Download ExpressVPN and install it on your PC.
  2. Launch it and log in to your ExpressVPN account.
  3. Connect to a convenient server (make it a fast one).
  4. Run the Looking-Glass test again (or the pathping one).

More often than not, packet loss is caused by network congestion, which is subsequently caused by your ISP and its improper routing.

You can see that most of the time it’s intermediary nodes that show high packet loss values. Those belong to either your ISP or its upstream provider.

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If that’s the case, using a VPN won’t only fix packet loss, but also improve ping by routing your traffic away from your ISP’s improperly routed network. Also, if your ISP is throttling your bandwidth, using a VPN should improve things a lot.

Note that having a VPN can help you in several ways, other than improving packet loss and ping. VPNs can give you a tremendous online privacy boost, secure your connection, and even circumvent geoblocking.

2. Troubleshoot your connection manually

✅Check if there’s any faulty software or hardware component on your end (PC, cables, router, drivers).

✅Repair/update/upgrade/replace any faulty component as needed.

✅Switch to wired instead of Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi leaks packets more frequently than wired).

✅Call your ISP and ask them to look into their routing (probably won’t do anything).

✅Contact Blizzard if there’s something wrong on their end.

Note that keeping your end of the connection (home network) in top shape can spare you a lot of headaches. Merely upgrading your cables from, say, CAT 5 to CAT 6, might trigger a dramatic change in speed.

Looking-Glass can be useful at times

The bottom line is that if you don’t want to get your hands dirty performing network diagnostics for Blizzard services, Looking-Glass can be exactly what you’re looking for.

You select a region and the service you’re testing against and let it run its course.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blizzard Looking-Glass?

Blizzard’s Looking-Glass is a network diagnostics tool that only shows you information that’s relevant for Blizzard services and games, such as packet loss, and ping.

Can VPN improve packet loss?

Yes, VPN can minimize packet loss if this issue occurs on your ISP’s side. Check out our best VPNs to improve packet loss.

Can VPN improve ping?

Yes, but only if your ISP’s network is poorly routed or if the ISP is throttling your bandwidth. Check out our best VPNs to improve ping.

However, note that it might return some inaccurate results, whether it’s scaring you with high packet loss values when the game works flawlessly or telling you there’s nothing wrong when you can barely access the service.

Best Way to Fix Steam Deck Stick Drift Issue Permanently

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

We now have yet another nifty gadget to add to our collections, one that promises to be your best gaming buddy for years to come. But a common issue plaguing devices is Steam Deck stick drift.

Though after Steam Deck, Valve’s handheld gaming PC, finally made its way to the general public, the overall response so far seems to be positive, except for this issue are a few other minor ones.

However, the Steam Deck stick drift is a relatively common problem in controllers, and we will be looking at ways to fix it in the guide. For those who didn’t know, the Nintendo Switch console is notorious for displaying this problem.

Does Steam Deck have stick drift?

Many users have reported stick drift with Steam Deck, which has led to issues with games requiring precision. A user even shared a video of stick drift on their handheld gaming device.

Some reported Steam Deck left stick drift, while the right one was problematic for most. However, the issue has not been reported by all users, so there’s a good chance that your Steam Deck wouldn’t show signs.

Also, Valve has confirmed that the issue started after a recent firmware update and has been identified and appropriately addressed. So, it shouldn’t be the case for new devices being shipped out.

In case you are facing Steam Deck stick drift, find out all the ways to fix it in the next section.

How can I fix the Steam Deck stick drift?

1. Update the software

Note icon NOTE
Before updating the software, ensure you are in Game mode and connected to the Internet on Steam Deck.
  1. Turn on Steam Deck, and press the Steam button on the console.Steam button
  2. Tap on Settings in the navigation pane.
  3. Now, navigate to System and tap on Check for Updates to scan for a newer version for SteamOS.
  4. If an update is listed after the scan, click on Apply.Apply to fix steam deck stick drift fix
  5. Wait for it to be downloaded, tap Restart, and then allow your Steam Deck some time to apply the changes.

A patch to fix the Steam Deck stick drift issue was released recently, and Valve recommends that you install it to get rid of the problem. And so far, it has seemed to work for most users.

2. Check for dust buildup

Though this shouldn’t be the case in the initial days, you may check for dust buildup near the stick to fix drift issues in Steam Deck.

The easiest way to remove any dust particles or grime lodged here would be to wipe the area around the stick with a soft and dry cloth.

3. Contact the Steam support

If nothing helps, it could be a hardware issue, and we recommend contacting Steam Deck Support for more help.

In no case should you open the gaming device to fix things since that could affect its overall functionality and even render the Steam Deck useless. Instead, you should let the experts deal with it!

How do you calibrate a Steam Deck joystick?

  1. Press the Steam button on the console, and then tap on Power.Power
  2. Select Switch to Desktop here.
  3. Now, open Steam.
  4. Tap on the Big picture mode icon near the top-right.
  5. Next, select Controller Settings under Controller.
  6. Choose your controller after it’s detected.
  7. Tap on the Calibrate button.
  8. Now, drag the slider for the problematic stick to the right until the center dot becomes black.
  9. Once done, tap on OK, and then restart Steam Deck for the changes to effect.

Calibrating allows you to modify the Steam Deck joystick deadzone. And this was a legit workaround for many before Valve rolled out the update the fix Steam Deck stick drift.

That’s it! You now know how to fix the stick drift issue and Steam Deck joystick calibration. So, from now on, you wouldn’t encounter the frequent disruptions affecting the gameplay and will enjoy the console the way it’s supposed to be.

Also, find out the best verified games on Steam Deck to play today!

If you managed to fix the problem with another solution, do not forget to share it in the comments section.

How to Fix Sky Go Error Code 4253024421 & 1415

Posted on by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

To enjoy Sky’s content, one must live in the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland. This can be traversed by VPN, which mimics a UK/RoI IP address to grant you access.

But that’s sometimes easier said than done, as VPN isn’t working on Sky Go for many users, leading to errors like error code 4253024421 & 1415.

Table of contents

How do I get Sky Go to work through VPN?

1. Try another server

  1. Open your VPN app and log in.
  2. Pick another server to connect to. Make sure it’s a server located in the UK.expressvpn uk server
  3. Once connected, go back to Sky Go and see if it works.

2. Make sure your time and date are set to UK or Republic of Ireland

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Open Time & Language.vpn not working sky go
  3. Under the Date & Time section, disable both ”Set time automatically” and ”Set time zone automatically”.
  4. Select Timezone and choose Dublin-London time zone from the drop-down menu.vpn not working sky go
  5. Now you can re-enable the ”Set time automatically” option and that’s it.
  6. Start your VPN and give Sky Go another try.

Sky Go can use anti-proxy services to block everyone in a different time zone. Some users resolved the issue by simply setting their system time to mimic the time of the UK/RoI server.

3. Reinstall the Sky Go app

In regards to the reinstallation of a Sky Go app on your system, follow the steps below:

  1. Enable your VPN and make sure your region settings are set to the UK.
  2. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
  3. Click Apps.vpn not working sky go
  4. Under Apps & features, locate the Sky Go app and remove it.vpn not working sky go
  5. Restart your PC.
  6. Open Microsoft Store and install Sky Go app again.
  7. Start VPN and give Sky Go another go.

4. Clear browser cookies and cache

  1. Open your web browser.
  2. Go to Settings and pick Privacy and Security.google chrome privacy and security
  3. Go to the Clear Data section.
  4. Select Clear Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files then click the Clear data button.chrome clear data
  5. Wait for the process to complete and revisit the Sky Go app or website to see if the issue persists.

5. Switch to a better VPN

If you frequently experience issues with Sky Go using your current VPN, consider switching to ExpressVPN.

It offers reliable access to streaming services, including Sky Go, thanks to its ability to bypass geo-restrictions.

Being one of the fastest VPNs on the market it can also reduce buffering and ensure smooth streaming.

With a vast network of UK servers, users can easily find a working connection.

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Why does my VPN not work with Sky Go?

Sky Go error code 4253024421/1415 displays the message An error has occurred. Please double-check your internet connection and retry.

This error can occur for various reasons, including internet problems, a bug with Sky Go, or something else.

When using your trusted VPN to access Sky Go, there are some minor issues. Surfshark not working with Sky Go, and Sky Go not working with NordVPN or ExpressVPN could be the result of too many server location changes in a short period of time.

As a result, Sky Go may have identified you as a third-party snitch attempting to connect. This can be resolved by changing your IP address through your VPN app.

For the sake of addressing it, we prepared a list of possible solutions to get rid of the Sky not working with VPN error. If you’re unable to connect and stream on Sky Go, make sure to check them out.

Wrap up

The most important thing to consider when you get the 4253024421 & 1415 and related errors is ensuring you have a VPN that works with Sky Go.

It needs servers in the UK & ROI as well as anti-detection features. It’s important to mention that Mini boxes can experience issues, and we already wrote about the Sky Mini box not working in one of our other guides.

Also, if you are using the service’s box, find out how to eliminate the red light on Sky Q.

Furthermore, an unsynced timezone or buggy router can also be at fault. Luckily, both are incredibly easy to fix.

You should know that the Sky service is not blocking any VPN connections. Sky Broadband Shield may be interfering but the highlighted link will bring you to the much-needed guide to fix this problem.

Another hint is that if you have a Sky TV account, you can download and use Sky Go for free.

That should do it. In case you have any other questions or suggestions regarding VPN for Sky Go and related issues, make sure to post them in the comments section below.

How to Set up a Sudo Password on Your Steam Deck

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

Sudo or’ superuser do’ permits you to temporarily elevate your user account to access the system’s root level. Moreover, users complain about not knowing how to set up a Sudo password to run a Steam deck Sudo command.

Performing specific, in-depth troubleshooting or using Sudo commands on the Steam deck requires permission from the Sudo utility system. However, users must provide a Sudo password to use the Sudo command in the Steam deck.

Because the Steam deck comes without a password, users need to set one to use Sudo. This article will discuss the Sudo password for the Steam deck and how to easily set one up.

How to set up a Sudo password on the Steam Deck?

  1. Press the Power button on your Steam Deck.
  2. Press and hold down the Power button to prompt a new menu.
  3. Select Switch to Desktop to boot the Steam deck in Desktop mode.
  4. Open the Konsole terminal app.
  5. Press STEAM + X to prompt the Steam Deck’s keyboard. (Also, you can use an external keyboard plugged into the device)
  6. Type in the following command and press Enter: passwd
  7. This will prompt the enter a new password window. (Enter a new password)
  8. Confirm the new password.

Setting up a Sudo password allows you to use commands as the deck user.

However, users can go to the official Steam blog for more information about setting a password for the Steam deck user in desktop mode.

What is the Sudo password for Steam Deck?

The deck user comes with no password set to it by default. It means it can’t be used to run a Sudo command unless the user can set up a Sudo password.

So, there is no Sudo password on the Steam deck until the user sets up a password on it.

Furthermore, Steam’s desktop mode allows you to customize the console and use other commands. Nonetheless, the user must reset the Sudo password to get root access.

Users can read through our article about how to add their favorite GOG games to their Steam library.

Is Root and Sudo’s password the same?

The Root account grants you full privileged access to run system commands, while the Sudo password grants you privileged access to run Sudo commands.

Root means that you already have access, but Sudo requires you to set up a password for Sudo before you can run Sudo commands.

Users may be interested in knowing how to change the download bandwidth limit on Steam.

Also, we have a comprehensive guide on how to change Steam Deck’s resolution when docked and undocked.

Did you know that sudo is now available on Windows? That’s right, and we have a great guide on how to configure sudo in Windows, so don’t miss it.

You can leave your suggestions and questions below in the comments section. We’d love to hear feedback from you.

5 Best Steam Deck Verified Games You Can Play

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

The Steam Deck is one of the best handheld consoles. It is a powerful console that has been a great competitor to the Nintendo Switch. However, it is reliable because it can run most steam games.

Though not all steam games are verified to work on the handheld, it is likely to be able to play other games in the future. Hence, we’ll take you through the Steam Deck verified games.

The Steam Deck allows you to access hundreds of games on a mobile handheld. The verified games are supported and can be accessed on the handheld without encountering problems.

However, some steam games are currently unsupported on the Steam Deck and can’t be played on the handheld. Likewise, some games are playable. It means you can access and play those games on the Steam Deck, but there are chances that you’ll run into some difficulties.

Which games are verified on Steam Deck?

There are thousands of verified and playable games you can play while writing this guide. Unfortunately, the total is just about a handful of games short of five thousand.

At the time of writing, close to two thousand games have the verified badge on the Steam Deck library, while another two thousand plus are tagged as playable.

Some of the verified games are 100 hidden birds, Angry Birds, 9th Dawn III, God of War, Doom, and Crazy Taxi.

How many verified Steam Deck games are there?

The Steam Deck has a growing library of verified games. However, users can play many verified games on the handheld. Hence, the verified games library for the Steam Deck boasts over 1800 games.

The figure changes over time because of the rapid growth in the number of verified games on the handheld. So, it would help if you frequently reviewed the Steam Deck verified games update.

Are all Steam games compatible with Steam Deck?

Unfortunately, not all Steam games are compatible with the Steam Deck. However, classifying the games into verified, playable, and unsupported is necessary.

It’ll help us out the games into divisions. Furthermore, some Steam games are compatible with Steam Deck but are still not functioning.

If you are looking for a Steam Deck compatible games checker, there is no better one than the sign next to each game on the Steam Deck library.

Quick Tip:

Because many Steam games are compatible with the Steam Deck, think about how many resources your PC uses. Thus we recommend using a browser designed for gaming purposes outside Steam.

When using the Opera GX browser, you can balance the resources by toggling RAM, CPU, and network consumption, as well as using Discord integration and downloading from the Steam game store.

Opera GX

Use this browser outside the Steam client to balance resource consumption and use sidebar chat integrations.
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What are the best verified games on Steam Deck?

No Man’s Sky – Amazing adventure game

No Man’s Sky is one of the verified games for Steam Deck. It features adventurous gameplay that themes around redemption. It is the best adventure game for the handheld.

However, the game has undergone several updates, making it better by the day. Hence, you’ll need to check for new updates on the Steam deck constantly.

⇒ Get No Man’s Sky

Dying Light – Best zombies game

Dying Light is the perfect choice of game for zombie lovers. It features the best display and missions. Likewise, players go on missions to stay alive while fighting against zombies and gather weapons to fight the undead.

The game operates at high speed, making it an excellent choice for the handheld—one to check out on the Steam deck among the verified games.

⇒ Get Dying Light

God of War – Immersive action and combat game

God of War is one of the best games on every console. Being a popular game, it was one of the earliest games verified on the Steam Deck handheld.

It features a compelling narration of the brutal adventures of the giant killer known as Kratos. It’s a good mixture of action and adventure.

⇒ Get God of War

Apex Legends – Fast-paced shooting game

Apex Legends is a multiplayer shooter featuring modern scenery where players fight battles and play. It is the best game on the verification board as it is part of the earliest game on the Steam Deck.

It has an active fanbase with many competitions included. So if you are a fan of unplanned havoc and shootings, this is one of the best verified games on Steam.

⇒ Get Apex Legends

Scarlet Nexus – Best JRPG game

Role-playing is one of the most fascinating games to play. However, the Scarlet Nexus is a game with many anime characters that allow players to choose their characters.

The compelling storytelling nature of the game makes it a fan favorite. It also features the use of psychic or supernatural powers.

⇒ Get Scarlet Nexus

There are thousands of other verified games on Steam Deck. However, we have handpicked the best games in different categories for you to select.

How do I know if a game is Steam Deck verified?

verify

To know if a game is Steam Deck verified, you need to check the sign next to each game. The games with green marks are confirmed, while those with a yellow lower cap letter i sign are playable.

Lastly, the unsupported games on Steam Deck have a danger sign, while the unknown games have a question mark sign.

How do I get verified games on Steam Deck?

  1. Click the Steam button.
  2. Select Store from the options.
  3. Search for a game of your choice, go through the Store for games, and then click on the game’s thumbnail.
  4. The product page will have a space for verified, playable, or unknown. (It shows the game status)

This way, you’ll be able to identify verified games and download them.

Can I play unsupported games on Steam Deck?

Unsupported games appear as unknown in the Steam Deck’s Store or library. It means the game is not playable on the handheld. Hence, you cannot play unsupported games on Steam Deck.

There are thousands of verified games on Steam Deck game lists, with more joining them frequently. These games cover different genres. So you are not short of options.

Conclusively, there are some issues you may encounter on the Steam Deck, such as the Steam Deck stick drift issue. However, you can check our article to learn how to fix it.

Moreover, the Steam Deck fatal error has been reported by various users. If you encounter it, check out our guide.

In the comments below, let us know the verified game(s) you enjoy playing on the stunning handheld console.

5 Quick Ways to Fix Vizio SmartCast when It’s Not Working

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Vizio SmartCast has developed into a reliable smart TV platform, offering a wide range of apps and integrated support for Google Chromecast and AirPlay 2. 

The Vizio OLED TV is unquestionably the best inexpensive OLED TV and one of the greatest 4K TV bargains available. The Vizio Smartcast not working is, however, a common problem for many of its users.

Generally speaking, Vizio SmartCast functions flawlessly, but occasionally it may display an error message that reads SmartCast Starting Up Please Wait or Smartcast TV Not Available.

Most of the time, clicking on Update Now will fix the issue and you will be able to enjoy the content.

Why is SmartCast not working on my Vizio TV?

Vizio SmartCast TVs frequently go blank or stop working for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most important ones:

  • The software on its core operating system freezes
  • The Wi-Fi connection isn’t as fast as it should be
  • Improper network settings

Some Vizio SmartCast TV models may, under extremely rare circumstances, also have hardware issues.

How do I fix SmartCast if it’s not working on Vizio?

1. Reboot the Vizio TV

  1. Restart the TV and see if the issues get resolved.TV power button - vizio smartcast not working
  2. Restart all of your gadgets, including your SmartCast, any smartphones or tablets you use to operate it, and any other gadgets linked to your home Wi-Fi network.
  3. Open SmartCast again.

2. Power cycle the TV

2.1 Use the TV settings

  1. Press the Menu button on your Vizio TV remote and choose System/Settings.Menu Remote
  2. Choose Reset & Admin from the menu on your TV.Reset and admin - vizio smartcast not working
  3. From this screen, choose Soft Power Cycle.
  4. Leave your router’s power cords all unplugged (and modem if you have one) until the process completes.

2.2 Use the Power button on your TV

  1. Using the remote control or the Power button on the TV, turn off the TV and unplug it from the power supply.Power Remote - vizio smartcast not working
  2. While the TV is not connected to a power source, press and hold the Power button for 20 to 30 seconds and then connect your TV to the power source.TV power button
  3. Leave the TV idle for a further 20–30 seconds.
  4. Turn on the TV and wait a few minutes without touching the remote or other buttons.

3. Factory reset your TV

  1. Select Menu using the remote (or, if you have a smart remote, the app).Menu Remote - vizio smartcast not working
  2. Select System, then Reset & Admin, and then Reset TV to Factory Settings. Reset TV
  3. By tapping Yes, you can confirm that you wish to execute a factory reset.

4. Check your TV Internet connection

  1. On the remote, tap the Menu button.
  2. Choose Network and then select Test Connection.Network Settings - vizio smartcast not working

5. Refresh Network DHCP Settings

  1. Launch a browser after turning off the smart cast TV.
  2. If available, enter your IP address, default gateway, or domain name server in the URL bar. If not, enter https://192.168.X.X (where X represents the IP address’ final two digits) into the URL bar.Admin IP - vizio smartcast not working
  3. Enter your User name and Password and navigate to Settings.Admin Login
  4. The DHCP tab can be found in your router’s firmware settings under Advanced, Network Settings, or Local Network Settings. On your router’s configuration page, near the wireless or LAN area, you’ll find the DHCP option.
  5. Disable and then re-enable the DHCP option if you have it activated but it is still not functioning.DHCP - vizio smartcast not working
  6. Save your preferences. The router will restart, and the process will take approximately 30 seconds.

What can I use instead of SmartCast?

Other than SmartCast you can use Roku TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, or Fire Stick.

Users of the listed TVs can download apps to their mobile devices to stream videos and view them on TV by using the mobile devices as a remote control. 

SmartCast TVs differ from smart TVs in that platforms for smart TVs use Wi-Fi to connect and function as their command center for downloading video and streaming services.

Having known some of the causes for SmartCast not working on your Vizio TV and their solutions you are good to go!

You might also be interested in reading our article to learn some quick ways to screen share Windows 11 to TV.

We also have a very useful guide on how to fix SmartCast Home not available issue.

Kindly let us know in the comment section of any other ways to fix the problem of how to fix Vizio Smartcast when it is not working.

Best Ways to Add GOG Games to Steam Library & Steam Deck

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

If you wonder how to add your favorite GOG games to your Steam library, you’ll find the answer in this article below.

However, keep in mind that a wide range of users have attempted to do this, but they have encountered problems.

Some say that the games are not displayed in the library, while others can not run any GOG game even though they are listed.

In today’s how-to article, we will discuss this subject in its entirety and offer you a way to work around this issue. Read on to find out more!

Can you play games from GOG on Steam?

Signing in with your active Steam account on GOG’s connect page will allow you to connect your library with GOG.com. Assuming you are the rightful owner of the titles mentioned, you will have the ability to import them into your GOG.com library permanently.

The eligible games are only being offered for a limited time, which has been made possible by the participating game creators and publishers.

Only one of your Steam accounts can be linked to your GOG.com library anytime. However, note that this procedure cannot be undone, so make your decision carefully.

Can GOG games be trusted?

If you’re still wondering if GOG games can be trusted, they can. GOG is a subsidiary company of CD Projekt, and it has been delivering a vast catalog of fantastic computer games since the early 1990s.

Nowadays, it is recognized among worldwide users, being preferred by tons of professional gamers.

Our team’s experiments indicated that GOG games are safe and legit sites for game codes. In this case, do not hesitate to pair them to your Steam library.

Let’s jump into the steps required when adding GOG games to Steam achievements without further ado. Follow along!

How can I add my GOG games to the Steam library?

1. Make sure no other apps are interfering with this process

1.1 Close other gaming apps

  1. Before you import GOG games to Steam, use the following keyboard shortcut to open the Task Manager: Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
  2. Now, search for GOG apps that might interfere in the Processes tab, click on them, then choose End task.process-end add gog games to steam

1.2 Uninstall other apps

  1. Press Windows + X, then select Apps and Features from the list.
  2. Please search for other apps that might interfere with GOG games, click on the three-dot menu next to them, then select Uninstall.uninstall-app-w11 add gog games to steam

In some cases, users have identified that some other running GOG application was interfering with the adding process of Steam.

Deleting or closing those apps will allow you to perform the adding process without issues.

2. Add the non-Steam game to Steam

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the app.steam-search add gog games to steam
  2. From the main menu, click on the Library tab.library-steam add gog games to steam
  3. From the bottom-left corner of the window, click on Add Game, then on Add a non-Steam game.library-add-steam add gog games to steam
  4. Search for the game executable file (usually found in the GOG Games folder on your C hard drive). Then, click the respective game executable file and add it to the list while changing the name as you want to.
  5. Right-click on the game shortcut in the Library, then select Properties.prop-game-steam add gog games to steam
  6. Now, right-click the game shortcut on your desktop, then select Properties.
  7. Copy the Target and Start in inputs into your game shortcut Properties window.

That’s it! This is how you can add or import GOG games on Steam.

How can I add GOG games to Steam Deck?

  1. Open FlatHub’s website from your Steam Deck and click on Install under Heroic Games Launcher.
  2. Press the STEAM button from your left side to open the quick menu.
    add gog games to steam
  3. Scroll down until you find the Power menu.
  4. Then, select the Switch to Desktop option.
  5. Open the Discover app and look for Heroic Games Launcher to install it.
  6. Go back to Steam in desktop mode, then navigate the top-most menu to the Games tab and select Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library …
  7. Find Heroic Games Launcher and add it. Then, close Steam and launch the Return to Gaming Mode shortcut from the applications menu or desktop of your Steam Deck.

In the interest of keeping things as straightforward as possible, we suggest installing GOG titles through the use of an open-source tool known as Heroic Games Launcher.

Because it was developed for launching GOG and Epic titles on various operating systems, including Linux, it is an ideal addition to your Steam Deck.

There is a low probability that every GOG game will have native support for the Steam Deck controllers, and it’s possible that some games won’t even have joypad support at all.

Is GOG better than Steam?

Some users still wonder if GOG is better than Steam and if you’re in the same situation, make sure you keep reading because we’ll give you all the answers you need.

When deciding between GOG and Steam, most users choose the second platform.

GOG has particular advantages, but you should know that its game library is more minor than Steam. At the same time, Steam offers over 50,000 games, and GOG hosts around only 5,000 pieces.

Steam has much more in the way of brand recognition, being more prevalent among worldwide users and having a massive community.

On the other hand, Steam doesn’t support DRM-free games. In these terms, you may need to use it in tandem with a service like GOG.com.

Another great thing about GOG is that it doesn’t imply regional restrictions or geo-blocking problems while running your favorite games. As a consequence, you’re able to play any game you purchase, regardless of your location.

In today’s how-to guide, we discussed the issue caused by not being able to add your GOG games to your Steam Library. If you wonder how to add games to your Steam library without downloading them, unfortunately, you can’t. In some way or another, you will need to download their files.

Of course, adding GOG games to the Steam library is straightforward; you have to get used to it.

These steps have proven helpful for other users experiencing the same problem. Please let us know if you found this practical guide and bypassed the issue.

3 Ways to Fix RuntimeBroker.exe Errors in Windows 10/11

Posted on by Ivan Jenic

Some people have recently reported that they’re unable to check for updates on Windows 10 due to a RuntimeBroker.exe error.

Namely, the update process will get stuck at a certain point. When you check for details, the following error message will appear:

  • RuntimeBroker.exe. The group or resource is not in the correct state to perform the requested operation.

There are a couple of ways to deal with this error, and we’re going to show you exactly what to do to fix it for good.

What is RuntimeBroker exe application error?

The Runtime Broker process was developed by Microsoft and serves an essential function in Windows 10 and 11.

You probably won’t notice RuntimeBroker.exe running just yet if you just login into Windows for the first time and haven’t opened any applications just yet.

RuntimeBroker.exe is a process that is initiated by Universal applications, and after it completes, any and all open applications are terminated instantly.

It’s possible that a damaged Windows system file is to blame for the error notice which can be fixed in various ways.

Users reported many other similar errors that we will address in the solutions below. These are the most common ones that we got:

  • RuntimeBroker.exe DistributedCOM error – To correct the issue, use Regedit and change the owner setting to Administrator.
  • RuntimeBroker.exe DCOM error – If you see numerous instances of Runtime Broker running on your computer, you need to make sure that you terminate all of the processes using Task Manager in order to fix the problem.
  • Error 10016 RuntimeBroker.exe – Before proceeding to the DCOM Configuration in Component services, you must first configure permissions for two registry keys. These keys are located in the DCOM folder.
  • RuntimeBroker.exe error the group or resource is not in the correct state – The error RuntimeBroker.exe will prohibit your Windows from downloading or installing updates, although the root causes of this problem are unknown.
  • Blocked by Windows Defender RuntimeBroker.exe – Simply turn off the Windows Defender service.
  • RuntimeBroker.exe initiated restart – If this is the case, we strongly suggest that you do not try to repair the problem by disabling it using Task Manager.
  • RuntimeBroker.exe error shutdown – The RuntimeBroker.exe error message will often appear as a result of a malfunctioning file or component inside the Windows operating system.

Is runtime broker exe a virus?

RuntimeBroker.exe is a Microsoft process that is completely safe to use and is present in both Windows 10 and Windows 11 to help with program permissions. It requires less than 3,000 kilobytes of RAM, thus its overall impact on the system is minimal.

The fact that this procedure is operating in the background will not negatively impact the overall performance of the system. Unless you are searching for a speedy way to close all of your applications, you should let this process alone and not interfere with it.

However, if you find that Runtime broker is causing a high CPU usage in your case, make sure to check out our dedicated article to fix it.

How do I fix RuntimeBroker exe error?

1. Run WU Reset Script

We’ve recently written about a special script which resets all Windows processes related to updates and deals with various update errors.

And this script should be more than helpful for solving this update error. To find out more about Windows Update Reset Script, and to download it, check out our linked article.

2. Run the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I and go to the Update & Security section.
    update-security nmi hardware failure windows 10
  2. Choose Troubleshoot from the menu on the left side, followed by Additional troubleshooters on the right menu.
    troubleshoot-aditional can't remove bluetooth device windows 10
  3. Scroll down to the Windows Update troubleshooter, click it and select Run the troubleshooter. The Unable to perform update runtimebroker exe error in Windows 10 will be fixed.
    update-run couldn't connect to update service

Another method to fix this problem is to simply use the Update Troubleshooter. You can launch it either from Control Panel or directly from the Settings page.

Simply run the troubleshooter, wait until it has completed the scan, restart your computer and check if the issue persists.

3. Manually reset Windows Update Components

If running the WU Reset Script didn’t fix the Unable to perform update runtimebroker exe error in Windows 10/11, or you don’t want to use it for some reason, you can try to manually reset Windows Update Components, and see if the problem is fixed.

Performing a reset will fix corrupt Windows Update Components and help you to install Windows Updates normally.

To manually reset Windows Update Components, follow these instructions:

  1. Press Windows then input cmd and select the Run as administrator option from the right side.
    cmd-run-admin 0x80070002 windows update
  2. Stop the BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and the Windows Update Services. To do this, enter the following commands into the Command Prompt, and press Enter after you type each command: net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver
    net-stop-suvr runtimebroker.exe error
  3. Now rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders. You can do that type the following commands in the Command Prompt, and press Enter, after entering each command: ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SoftwareDistribution.old ren C:\Windows\System32\Catroot2\Catroot2.old
  4. Now, restart the BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer , and the Windows Update Services. To do that, type the following commands in the Command Prompt, and press Enter after you type each command: net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver
    net-start runtimebroker.exe error
  5. Close the Command Prompt, and restart the computer.

How do I fix RuntimeBroker.exe error on Windows 11?

  1. Hold Windows + I then go down to the Troubleshoot section and click it.
    troubleshoot-opt-w11 0xa00f4244 nocamerasareattached
  2. Select Other troubleshooters.
  3. Scroll down the click the Run button next to the Windows Update troubleshooter.
    windows-update-run-troubleshooter runtimebroker.exe error

Should I disable Runtime Broker?

Runtime Broker is required for the protection of your Windows 10/11 computer’s security and privacy while running applications downloaded from the Windows Store since it is needed to manage those applications.

We strongly suggest that you do not try to repair the problem by disabling it using Task Manager. Instead check out the alternative solutions to fix high CPU usage caused by Runtime Broker. For more information, see this guide that explains what are runtime errors.

That’s it, I hope these solutions helped you with your update problem. If you have any comments, or questions, just reach for the comment section below.

5 Best Games Compatible With Steam Deck [Official List]

Posted on by Vladimir Popescu

Game lovers worldwide have been eagerly waiting for the release of Steam Deck, and with that officially happening, many are curious about the compatible games on Valve Steam Deck.

The list of games for Steam Deck is growing by the day, with the team trying them individually, but the process could be a tad slow in the initial days.

Just so you get the idea, as of February, reports suggest the total number of games on Steam reached 50,000, so Valve employees are facing a pretty daunting task.

But that shouldn’t act as a deterrent. Valve has already verified many cool and exciting games compatible with the Steam Deck, and we have presented the best ones in the following sections.

Is Steam Deck compatible with all Steam games?

Sadly, the answer is no! Steam Deck works on a Linux-based operating system with a 1280x800px resolution, so all games available on the Steam platform won’t be compatible.

Steam has categorized games into four types depending on their compatibility with the Steam Deck.

  • Verified: These games work perfectly well.
  • Compatible: Users might have to make slight modifications well within the scope of acceptable ones
  • Unsupported: The ones that are not functional or simply unsupported games on Steam Deck presently
  • Unknown: These haven’t been checked for compatibility yet

To find out if your favorite title is available on Steam Deck, head to the Steam store on the console itself and verify the category it falls under.

What games are Steam Deck supported?

Many games are currently compatible and supported on Steam Deck by Valve. You can find the complete list of compatible matches on the official website. And it’s regularly updated, so any game verified will feature here immediately.

Also, you can check the list of Valve Steam Deck compatible games on SteamDB, a third-party website that extensively covers various aspects of the gaming platform.

And if you were looking for one, there’s no Steam Deck compatible games checker, so you must verify it manually.

What are the best Steam Deck games?

Apex Legends: The best free-to-play game

Apex Legends is one of the most popular free-to-play games in recent years, with more than 130 million users have played it. The gameplay revolves around legendary characters teaming up to battle for glory and fame.

Every legend has unique skills and abilities. And using an expanding array of lethal weapons, the aim is to be the last man/team standing. So if you haven’t tried it yet, go ahead and play Apex Legends, one of the best compatible games on Valve Steam Deck.

⇒ Get Apex Legends

Elden Ring: One of the most challenging games

valve steam deck compatible games

Developed by FromSoftware Inc., Elden Ring falls under the RPG (Role-playing games) category. It’s often said to be one of the most demanding games.

The game is about survival, and defeating your enemies is the key here. In addition, Elden Ring offers users various customizations to enhance the gameplay, from changing the character’s appearance to combining weapons and magic.

⇒ Get Elden Ring

God of War: A must-have for game lovers

best valve steam deck compatible games

God of War has been here for a while. First launched in 2005 for PlayStation 2, the game has since been developed for almost every device and OS and is now one of the compatible games on Valve Steam Deck.

In the game, players control Kratos, the lead character, and a Spartan Warrior sent by the Greek Gods to kill the God of War. The game blends mythology, exciting gameplay, and striking graphics perfectly.

⇒ Get God of War

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: Offers everything you could ask for

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the third in the series, is one of the best compatible games available on Valve Steam Deck. The aim is to find the Child of Prophecy, a living weapon as predicted by the legends.

A player starts as a highly trained monster slayer available for hire and has to fight foes, kill monsters, and earn rewards. The rewards can be used to upgrade weapons, buy armory, or spend on horse races, card games, and fist fighting.

⇒ Get The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

F1 22: Couldn’t have been any better

One of the top-rated racing games, F1 22 has been a delight for gamers and is one of the compatible games on Valve Steam Deck. The 2022 FIA Formula One World Championship is the official game, with better graphics, redesigned cars, and exciting gameplay.

F1 22 also features in the Top Seller list on Steam. The new game comprises 20 drivers and 10 teams, and players are required to create a team and take it to glory. In addition, various modes are available for players to choose from, each offering a captivating experience.

⇒ Get F1 22

Is Steam Deck underpowered?

Steam Deck has been called an underpowered device by many. Still, for a handheld gaming console, it’s one of the best available in the market and beats Switch by a considerable margin on most parameters.

You can not expect it to run the most powerful game released 10 years later. But at the moment, most of the major titles are available on Steam Deck and run exceptionally well.

That’s all there’s to Valve Steam Deck and its compatible games. While we have listed just a few, you would be able to play many more on Steam Deck. And the list will surely expand in the coming days.

Also, for those who didn’t know, you could connect your Xbox Game Pass to Steam Deck.

Besides, find out how to change the Steam Deck resolution when docked and undocked.

If you have other queries, either head to Steam Deck Support or drop a comment here.

How to Set Up Passwordless Login in Windows 10

Posted on by Loredana Harsana

Starting with Windows 10 Build 18936, you can take advantage of the passwordless sign-in for Microsoft accounts on your Windows 10 device.

The tech giant has been working on removing passwords from Windows 10 until finally coming up with a few alternatives to passwords.

The current lineup of authentication methods includes Windows Hello Face, Windows Hello Fingerprint, Windows Hello PIN, Security key, Password, and Picture Password. If you opt into the new passwordless login, the password option will disappear from your Login screen.

What are the benefits of passwordless sign-in on Windows 10?

If you’re wondering why you would want to use passwordless authentication, it’s because it offers more security and a seamless sign-in experience.

Passwords are often reused on multiple accounts, which makes them susceptible to hacking. A PIN code, for example, is much more secure because is stored on your device and not shared online.

Windows 10 stores your PIN on a secure local chip called Trusted Platform Module (TPM). In case of server or online issues, your private key won’t be affected.

So, any of the other Windows Hello sign-in options are more secure than a password.

    How can I enable passwordless sign in on Windows 10?

    If you no longer want to bother with having to use a password or a PIN code to log in to your PC, you should enable the Windows passwordless login feature.

    This feature can be toggled on via your Windows 10 PC’s built-in Settings, from the Sign-in Options menu.

  1. 1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard or click the Start button on your taskbar to open the search box.

  2. 2. In your Windows search box, type settings and click on the first result.

    settings app windows 10

  3. 3. In the Settings app, click on Accounts.

  4. 4. In the left panel, click on Sign-in options. Now you’ll see multiple authentication methods for your Windows 10 device.

  5. 5. In the right section, you can find the Make your device passwordless setting.

    set windows 10 passwordless login

  6. 6. Toggle the feature on.

  7. 7. That’s it. Now you can log in to your Microsoft accounts or Windows 10 device without the need for a password.

Alternatively, on the same screen, you can choose one of the Windows Hello methods and set it up if you want to go back to log in with a password or PIN.

Note icon NOTE
If you don’t see the Windows Hello login options in your settings, it’s possible that your device doesn’t support this feature.

If you’re interested in how you can skip the login screen on Windows 10, check out our dedicated guide and learn how to do it yourself. We also have a guide on how to bypass default Windows 11 password, so don’t miss it.

In case you are interested in eliminating some of the many passwords used for various platforms, check out this list of the best password managers for Windows 10. It’s the most convenient way of taking this load off your chest.

For any other suggestions or questions, feel free to reach out to the comments section below.

How to Install to & From an SD Card on Your Steam Deck

Posted on by Henderson Jayden Harper

The Steam Deck has various inbuilt memory spaces, ranging from 64 GB to 256 GB and 512 GB. However, Steam Deck is famous for boasting an advantage over several competitors: the ability to install an SD card. The handheld gaming computer allows you to install games with external Storage like an SD card.

Furthermore, Steam Deck lets you expand its storage space by inserting a safe and reliable SD card. It allows users to install Windows on the Steam Deck from an SD card.

Though there are preconditions, such as formatting the SD card on Steam Deck, using it is simple. Ensure that the SD card offers fast read and write speeds to help you get excellent load times.

Likewise, storing games on other SD cards and accessing them on different devices is easier. Users can also install Windows on Steam Deck from a bootable SD card.

How do I install games on my Steam Deck from an SD card?

  1. Execute steps 1-7 above.
  2. Go back to the left pane of the screen and scroll down.
  3. Select Storage and click on MicroSD Card.
  4. Tap on X to make the SD card your default download location for new games.

However, any new games downloaded will be installed on Steam Deck from the SD card. You may be interested in reading about the best deals for the fastest SD card readers.

Will Steam Deck allow SD cards?

The Steam Deck handheld gaming console lets users download, install, and play games from SD cards.

It supports users in expanding storage space by inserting a good quality microSD card into the handheld. However, the users are required to format the SD cards on Steam Deck before using them.

Furthermore, Steam Deck allows SD cards, but not all of them can work perfectly with the device.

Some recommendations are Samsung Pro Plus, SanDisk Ultra, and the SanDisk Extreme Pro. These SD cards offer fast read and write speeds and are very reliable for the Steam Deck.

We recommend you check our article about the best SanDisk’s 1TB MicroSD card deals.

What Format does the Steam Deck format SD card?

  1. Insert the SD card into the Steam Deck handheld.
  2. Press the Steam Deck button.
  3. Select Settings from the left tab.
  4. Click on System.
  5. Scroll down and select System settings.
  6. Click on Format SD Card, then tap on Format.
  7. Click Confirm for verification.

After formatting is complete, you can proceed with installing the Steam Deck directly onto the SD card, as described above.

What size SD card does Steam Deck support?

The Steam Deck supports SD cards of various storage spaces. However, the maximum SD card users can use with the Steam Deck is 1TB. As a result, you can use SD cards with space variations from 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

It depends on how much space you need for gaming. The regulated space support for the Steam Deck is 512GB, which is the highest storage option Valve offers for the Steam Deck handheld.

Can you hot-swap microSD cards on Steam Deck?

Hot swapping your micro SD cards from your devices is a bad idea and can cause you to lose vital data. It is ethical and safe to properly eject SD cards from your device before pulling them out.

However, hot-swapping SD cards on Steam Deck is not advisable, even though you can.

Furthermore, some users complain about being unable to access the games on the SD cards after hot swapping.

Hence, removing the SD card without ejecting it may require you to reformat it, meaning you must wipe all the data on the drive.

What causes the issue with hot swapping is that there may be an ongoing writing/reading process. So, a sudden break can affect the SD card.

Nevertheless, users may be interested in reading about how to fix Steam when it is unable to sync files.

We have a comprehensive list of the Steam Deck verified games. Click the link above to know how many they are in 2024. Also, check out this article on installing Windows on Steam Deck.

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