Microsoft launches Startups Founders Hub for all

Microsoft just launched Startups Founders Hub, a platform that is in place to help entrepreneurs execute their business strategies effectively and efficiently through cloud resources, mentoring, and personal training regardless of your starting point.

The platform is now open to all, as Microsoft aims to create an enabling environment that will help bring out the best in both their clients and partners. Through the support, Microsoft hopes to promote the longevity of some of these businesses and turn them into successes by addressing some of the common challenges that prevent startups from reaching their full potential.

Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub revolves around three key areas:

• Unlocking Innovation for All: The platform eliminates traditional barriers founders face when getting started, such as venture capital requirements or third-party validation to help any founder regardless of background, location or access be successful.
• Technology Benefits that Grow: Keeping pace with a startup’s lifecycle, the platform helps founders speed development with free access to GitHub and the Microsoft Cloud with the ability to unlock additional benefits over time. To address the unique needs of startups, we are also partnering with innovative companies like OpenAI, a global leader in AI research and deployment, that develops AI systems such as GPT-3 and Codex to provide startups with exclusive benefits and discounts.
• Access to mentorship and guidance: Becoming a founder is no longer about “who you know.” Through the platform, startups can connect with industry veterans, access tailored startup-centric training and innovate quickly with expert technical guidance.

“The platform provides free access to over $100.000 in powerful development and productivity tools including GitHub, Microsoft 365 and more.” Microsoft has also partnered with OpenAI API to provide members with exclusive benefits and features, that is, “exclusive access to $1000 of credits, 3 free months OpenAI API Innovation License and free consultation with an OpenAI expert.” Thanks to the new update even more people will get support from Microsoft as the eligibility score has been reduced significantly. With that, said it is now easier for you to pitch an idea and get support.

Furthermore, these technology benefits come in different packages which will allow you to select one that suits you best as compared to the previous arrangement, that is Ideate, Develop, Grow and Scale. Moreover, the platform not only provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to expand their businesses but also the opportunity to sell their ideas and solutions through the Microsoft go-to-market channels and services. As such, you should make sure that you sign up to take full advantage of these benefits.

 

What’s new in Microsoft Teams for Education in March: New features in Microsoft Whiteboard & more

Microsoft Teams for Education remains a key part of the curriculum and lifestyle for many schools across the world. That’s why Microsoft is always adding new features, and this past month, there were a lot. Here’s a recap of some of those top features.

New features for Assignments

The assignments features in Teams for Education picked up five new features. The first of those is the ability for educators to turn in and upload documents in Assignments for their students. Second, up, is the ability for educators to get notified when a student turns in a late assignment. Tying in with that is the ability to customize notifications associated with assignments. Capping things out is the ability to collapse or expand the grading view, and the ability to Edpuzzle and GoConqr in the assignments tab.

New features for Whiteboard in Teams

With Whiteboard in Teams for Education, there were a couple of different updates. Students can now “like” ideas in sticky notes in Whiteboard, add photos and files to the whiteboard on mobile devices.  Also in this same area were some more effective ways to hold class sessions with Teams Rooms and OneNote & Teams Meetings. The following features were added.

  • Front row layout for Microsoft Teams Rooms on Windows
  • Switch between multiple video cameras in Teams Rooms on Windows
  • OneNote Live Captions allow inclusive note-taking
  • Word cloud poll for Teams meeting, along with the ability to mirror video, use music mode, and a new order of raised hands feature

In addition to the above, Microsoft is working to add zoom controls, Bing image search, and OneDrive storage to Whiteboard, too.

Updates to Reading Progress

As for the Reading Progress feature, there are a couple of things that were added. The most notable are actionable insights and personalized reading progress assignments. Then, there’s return for revision, a customizable report to return details to students, video recording for reading progress on iOS and Android. Capping out the list is the ability to pick a passage from a OneNote Class Notebook, new languages in auto-detect, and school or district-wide fluency reports.

Other features

We hit the highlights above, but there were some additional features that we didn’t touch on. Of those is a new Parent Connection feature, which helps educators involve parents and guardians to support their student’s achievements. You can learn more about these features and other Teams for Education features over on Microsoft’s Tech Community.

FIX: VPN Not Working With Spotify [2026 Guide]

If you’re a music aficionado in this modern technical era, there’s a good reason to believe that you’ve crossed your path with Spotify. This music streaming service is the champion in the niche with more than 150 million users.

However, the service is still geo-restricted for certain regions and thus unavailable for certain countries. This can be avoided by employing a VPN solution, but too often, the two won’t work well together.

A lot of user reports concern issues with Spotify unable to comply with Virtual Private Networks or proxies, for that matter. In order to address this, we prepared a list of possible solutions.

Make sure to check them out below and, hopefully, we’ll succeed resolving the issue in a glorious manner and you’ll be able to play your favorite tracks.

What can I do if VPN won’t work with Spotify?

1. Use a different VPN

First things first. If the problem is persistent, we advise you to try out an alternative VPN. Most of the free solutions will get the job done, but if you’re keen to spend some extra money on better privacy protection, it’s well recommended to go premium.

Install Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access
We suggest Private Internet Access which excels in reliability and ease of use. Also, in comparison to some other premium solutions, it comes for less price which can be a factor, too.

PIA is a trusted, world-leading VPN provider that works seamlessly with Spotify and is perfectly optimized for streaming.

Boasting an impressive network of 3292 servers with global coverage, this VPN guarantees to unblock your streaming, help you bypass geo-restrictions, and streamline your connection, thus allowing you to enjoy a buffering-free Spotify session each and every time.

Unlimited bandwidth and ultra-fast download speeds complete the picture or should we say, the tune?

When it comes to security features, PIA provides best-in-class encryption to keep your data secure and routes all your traffic through encrypted VPN tunnels.

Privacy-wise, you can rest assured that you are as anonymous and track-free as you need for your Spotify sessions thanks to the IP cloaking function that practically makes you invisible on the grid.

Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access

Music sets you free? It's your turn to free music. Take your Spotify sessions up a notch with PIA VPN.
$2.69/mo. Buy it now

2. Whitelist Spotify in Windows Firewall

Let’s eliminate the non-related cause which is commonly affecting Spotify connection. Namely, for some unapparent reason, Windows Firewall tends to block Spotify.

In order to address this, you can either disable the Firewall (not recommended due to security liability) or let Spotify communicate through Windows Firewall.

Also, if you’re using a third-party antivirus suite with the dedicated firewall, make sure to whitelist both VPN and Spotify there, as well.


 Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your antivirus blocks the VPN.


If you’re not sure how to let the third-party application communicate through Windows Firewall, follow these instructions:

  1. In the Windows Search bar, type Allow and open Allow an app through Windows Firewall from the list of the results.vpn not working spotify
  2. Click on the Change settings button. You’ll need administrative permission in order to do so.
  3. Locate the Spotify Music and check the box beside it.
  4. Check both Private and Public boxes and confirm changes.vpn not working spotify

3. Change the server

The good thing about modern VPN solutions is that you have a large choice of available servers in different countries around the globe. If one is failing you due to temporary issues or the slow speeds due to overcrowding, you can always switch to another one.

The important thing is to use the same country which you used for the account creation and the same credentials. Don’t log in with Facebook integration.

Therefore, close your Spotify desktop client, open the VPN, then change the server and restart Spotify. You don’t have to use a VPN every time you log in. You can use it once every 14 days and you won’t have any issues whatsoever.

This doesn’t apply to Premium subscription as you’ll need to provide the details about the paying account. This can make the server-switching an issue for some users.

4. Sign out and sign in again on all devices

If you use Spotify on multiple devices, both PC and handheld ones (as most of the users do), the combination with the VPN can create issues.

When things go awry, it’s recommended to sign out of every used device and move from there. After that, you can log in on one by one and try running Spotify. With VPN enabled, of course.

You can access every device individually or you can access the web-based player and the account settings. From there, you can sign out of all devices at once.

5. Check the connection

The connection can be another possible reason for the issues. If you’re unable to access the Spotify‘s dedicated servers via the VPN, maybe the problem isn’t in the VPN.

Make sure to check your connection, restart your equipment, and disable/re-enable DNS and proxy if you’re using those, too.

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take concerning the overall connectivity issues:

    • Restart your router/modem and PC/phone/tablet.
    • Flush DNS:
      1. Press Windows key + S to summon the Search bar.
      2. Type cmd, right-click Command prompt and run it as an administrator.vpn not working spotify
      3. In the command line, type the following commands and press Enter after each:
        •  ipconfig /release
        • ipconfig /renew
      4. After the process ends, type in this command and press Enter:
        • ipconfig /flushdnsvpn not working spotify
      5. Close the Command Prompt, enable VPN, and open Spotify again.
    • Reset Winshock:
  1. Type cmd in the Windows Search bar, right-click Command Prompt and run it as admin.
  2. In the command line, enter the following command and press Enter:
    • netsh winsock reset catalogvpn not working spotify
  3. After that, insert these commands to reset IPv4 and IPv6 stacks and press Enter after each:
    • netsh int ipv4 reset reset.log
    • netsh int ipv6 reset reset.log
  4. Close the elevated command line and restart your PC.
  • Reset your modem/router to factory settings.
  • Update router’s firmware.

6. Enable Port Forwarding

Most VPNs need a specific port forwarded for various uses. This especially applies to media streaming, and Spotify is a media streaming application.

In order to enable this, you should open VPN and look for the Port Forwarding option. Make sure that it’s enabled. Also, google your router in order to find out how to open ports within the router itself and enable UPnP.

You should open these IP ranges in the 4070 port: 78.31.8.0/21, 193.182.8.0/21.

As we already stated, you don’t need the VPN to be active throughout the use of Spotify. It’s required, for the sake of avoiding the geo-restrictions, only at the logging. Later on, you can enable it on every 14 days when the new log-in prompt appears.

7. Reinstall Spotify desktop client

When it comes to Windows 10 and Spotify, you have two options to stream music from the largest music media in the world. The first one includes the Spotify app from the Microsoft Store, the second relies on the browser-based web players.

If you decide to use the former and it won’t work with the VPN, you can try the alternative option or update/reinstall the desktop client.

Here’s how to reinstall the Spotify desktop client app in Windows 10:

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Choose Apps.
  3. In the Search bar, type Spotify.
  4. Expand Spotify and click Uninstall.vpn not working spotify
  5. Open Microsoft Store and search for Spotify.
  6. Install the client app again.
  7. Start the VPN and then open the newly-installed Spotify.vpn not working spotify
  8. Try to log in with your credentials.

That should do it. In case you have an alternative method of resolution for the ache at hand or a question regarding the aforementioned solutions, we encourage you to post them in the comments section below.

March 2022 Update: it seems that there’s currently a number of various problems Spotify, as follows:

Windows 11 ISO Download Error: How to Fix it in 7 Ways

Seeing a Windows 11 ISO download failed error while trying to grab the installation image? This issue usually happens due to browser limitations, server-side interruptions, antivirus conflicts, or corrupted downloads. Here’s how to fix it and successfully download the ISO file without issues.

What are the minimum Windows 11 requirements?

For devices to be able to install or upgrade to Windows 11, they must match the following minimum hardware specifications:

  • Processor: 1 GHz and higher with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip.
  • RAM: 4 (GB) or more.
  • Storage: 64 GB or more available storage is required to install Windows 11.
  • Additional storage space may be required to download updates and enable certain functions.
  • Graphics card: Needs to be compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
  • System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
  • TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
  • Display: High definition (720p) display, 9″ or greater monitor, 8 bits per color channel.
  • Internet connection: Internet access is required to perform updates, as well as to download and use various functions, such as video streaming.

There may be additional requirements in the future for upgrades and to enable certain functionality inside the operating system as the operating system evolves. More information can be found in the Windows 11 specifications.

What to do if Windows 11 ISO download failed

1. Check computer requirements for installation

  1. Go to the Microsoft ISO download page and click on Before you begin.
    before-begin windows 11 iso download failed

  2. A list of requirements will appear. Verify that your system meets each one.
    before-begin-requirements windows 11 iso download failed

If your system lacks TPM or Secure Boot support, you can still install Windows 11 without TPM by following a simple bypass method.

2. Disable your antivirus


1. Click the expand arrow in the taskbar, right-click your antivirus, and choose Disable for 10 minutes.

disable-antivirus-icon

2. If using other antivirus software, follow its specific steps to temporarily disable protection.
avira-disable-icon

3. Run Disk Cleanup

  1. Press Windows + R, type cleanmgr /VERYLOWDISK, then press Enter.
    run-disk-cleanup

  2. You’ll receive a report of how much space was cleared.
  3. To choose what gets deleted, use cleanmgr /LOWDISK in the Run window. For minimal cleanup with more options, try cleanmgr /sageset:1.

4. Clear browser cache

Cached data can prevent files from downloading properly. In Chrome or Edge, go to Settings → Privacy → Clear browsing data. Delete cached files and cookies, then retry. If you’re not sure how browser data affects downloads, our guide on downloading the Windows 11 ISO has additional instructions.

5. Switch to another browser

Sometimes the browser itself causes issues. Use another browser like Firefox or Edge. Try downloading in Incognito or Private mode to avoid cached data and extension conflicts. If your current browser consistently fails, the problem could also indicate deeper compatibility issues, as seen in our Windows 10 ISO troubleshooting guide.

6. Use the Media Creation Tool

If the ISO fails directly, try downloading via the Media Creation Tool. Choose “Create installation media,” then either save the ISO or build a bootable USB drive. This method is also ideal if the download is stuck midway or freezing completely.

You can follow a detailed walkthrough on using the tool by checking our guide on the Windows 11 Enterprise ISO download with Media Creation Tool, which explains how to trigger the correct edition reliably.

7. Try a different device or network

If the issue persists, use another PC or switch to a different network, such as a mobile hotspot or wired Ethernet — to avoid local restrictions or bandwidth issues. If your device lacks BIOS access to enable TPM, here’s how to enable TPM 2.0 without BIOS and continue setup.

Was this guide helpful for you? Don’t hesitate to tell us in the comments section below so that we can improve our future posts for you. Thanks for reading!

Getting the 0xc000000f Error Code in Windows 11? Fix it Now

If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’ve encountered the Windows boot error 0xc000000f at some point in time. The good news is that, if you follow our instructions, you will be able to resolve the issue in no time.

Computers are a staple of our food and a necessary component of our existence today. Windows errors are typically disruptive and might take a significant amount of time to resolve. Furthermore, handling the demands of work while also troubleshooting may appear to be a demanding task.

The Error code 0xc000000f a required device isn’t connected or can’t be accessed message is typically caused by a corrupted file, a damaged hard drive, or a malware or virus infection, among other things.

Let us examine in more detail what the causes of this issue are, and then jump into the solutions. Follow along!

What causes the 0xc00000f error to occur?

It is possible that the Your PC needs to be fixed 0xc000000f error is caused by a problem with the Windows Boot Manager on your machine. system-recovery  windows 11 error code 0xc000000f

This will make your operating system unable to read the booting configuration data and will prompt you to perform a system recovery procedure. Furthermore, there are three significant explanations for this error code, which are as follows:

➡ Boot Configuration Data (BCD) is missing or damaged – According to the message on the error code screen, the first and most important reason is that the BCD is missing or corrupted. Viruses in the boot sector, power failures, disk write issues are all possible causes.
➡ Damaged system files – If your computer shuts down unexpectedly due to a power failure while it is in the middle of upgrading Windows or writing critical information to the boot sector, system files may become corrupted, which may cause the error to occur.
➡ A faulty data cable – If you have been using the same data cable for several years, it is possible that it has degraded. Then the damaged cable can create read and write errors, which can interfere with the process of loading the operating system.

There is no single solution to the 0xc000000f error code. For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of various possible approaches. Which one is the most effective is determined by the precise source of the issue on your machine. Thus, try each one at a time until the problem is resolved.

How can I fix the 0xc000000f error code in Windows 11?

1. Check for faulty cables

In the event that your PC is on, shut it down entirely and unplug it from all electrical sources. Then take a look at the wiring by opening it up. Check to see that all of the cables are securely secured, and if any of the cables are exhibiting signs of wear and tear, replace those wires.

Whenever possible, avoid using a cleaning chemical or another liquid to clean the wiring or other internal components of your computer. Instead, a dry cloth should be used.

Some Windows devices are unable to be accessed. Surfaces that have been opened may have their warranties revoked. When it comes to desktop computers, they are usually good for inspection, but it is important to double-check the user manual and warranty paperwork before.

2. Repair system files with a dedicated utility

As mentioned, this error may appear as a result of corrupt or missing system files. If you want to effectively fix your system files, we suggest you do so with the help of a reputable system repair utility.

3. Use the CHKDSK utility

  1. Tap the Windows key + S to open the search bar, type in cmd, and right-click on the top result and run it as an admin.cmd-search-admin kernel security check failure windows 11
  2. After the Command Prompt launches, type or paste in the below command and tap on Enter:
    chkdsk C: /f /r /xchkdsk kernel security check failure windows 11

Another option is to use Check Disk to check for faulty files, which is a free program. The scan will take longer to finish due to the fact that it is more comprehensive. Once the process is complete, restart your computer to bring everything to a conclusion.

4. Repair BCD through Command Prompt

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app, and navigate to System in the left panel followed by Recovery from the right side.system-recovery windows 11 error code 0xc00000e9
  2. Now click on the Restart Now button next to Advanced Startup.restart-now windows 11 error code 0xc00000e9
  3. Your PC will now boot to the Windows Recovery screen. Select Troubleshoot from there.troubleshoot-option windows 11 error code 0xc00000e9
  4. Then click on Advanced Options followed by Command Prompt.cmd-option  windows 11 error code 0xc000000f
  5. Once you’re inside the prompt, type or paste in the following command and hit Enter. If the program finds a Windows installation and asks Add installation to the boot list?, press Y on your keyboard: bootrec /rebuildbcdbootrec-cmd  windows 11 error code 0xc000000f

What does BCD do?

On BIOS-based and EFI-based computers, the Boot Configuration Data store contains the boot settings for Windows that are used during the boot process.bios-change  windows 11 error code 0xc000000f

BCD is a common boot option interface that is independent of the firmware used by all computers running Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows Server 2012, Windows 7, and Windows Server 2008.

For this reason, it is more secure than prior boot option storage configurations since it allows administrators to give privileges for managing boot options while still allowing secure lockout of the BCD store.

It is accessible at all times during the runtime and during all steps of the setup process. If you want to set the boot procedure for resuming after hibernation, you can even invoke it during power state changes.

The BCD store can be managed remotely, and it can also be managed if the system boots from a media other than the one on which the store is located. It is especially useful for debugging and troubleshooting purposes when a BCD store needs to be restored while running Startup Repair from a DVD.

To precisely identify boot-related apps, the BCD store, which has a typical object-and-element design, makes use of GUIDs and names such as Default to identify them.

You can adjust the boot settings in Windows by interacting with the Windows Management Instrument (WMI) interface to boot options. This BCD WMI interface is the most effective means of changing the boot settings.

If you want to find out more, you can read our article on how to fix corrupt BCD files in Windows 10, which has solutions that can be applicable to Windows 11 too.

For more information and potential solutions to the 0xc000000f error, check out our cluster of guides on troubleshooting boot errors on both Windows 10 & 11 PCs.

Alternatively, you can find more methods to fix the problem that may be applicable to Windows 11 as well in our post on how to fix the 0xc000000f boot error in Windows 10. Make sure to take a look at it!

Let us know in the comments section below which solution worked best for you as well as how often you encounter boot errors.



How to quickly create a Power Virtual Agents chatbot on Microsoft Teams

Power Virtual Agents (PVA) is a chatbot service built on Microsoft Power Platform, which includes PVA, Power Apps, Power BI, and Power Automate. The PVA on Teams development process uses a guided, no-code, and graphical interface approach that allows users to create and delete chatbots at will.
PVA allows you to build and deploy chatbots via the web or by adding the app directly to Teams. If you are using the PVA web app, you can use supported browsers including Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Chrome. Keep in mind that you need a work, school, or organization Microsoft account. Unfortunately, there is no option currently available for personal Microsoft accounts.

Add Power Virtual Agents app to Teams

Once installed, you can create bots in the PVA app on Teams and share them across your team, company, or organization. The very first step is to install the PVA app, then you can move on to make bots.
1. Go to the Microsoft Teams Apps store and search for “power virtual agents.”
2. Select the Power Virtual Agents app and click Add.
power virtual agents in teamsThe app will be added to the side pane in Teams and the app automatically opens to PVA interface. This is where Teams users can come to create, edit, and delete bots. This is the perfect time to pin the app to Teams so you don’t have to search for it later.

Create a bot

When you are ready, you have two options available to create a bot:
1a. Click Start now to quickly create a bot.
power virtual agents in teams
1b. Go to the Chatbots tab, select the team you want to use, and select New chatbot.power virtual agents in teams
2. Choose the Teams channel name you want to use and click Continue. power virtual agents in teams3. Name your bot and choose what language you want your bot to speak.
4. Click Create to create your bot.

Once the PVA app animation is complete, you are finished. If this is the first time a bot is being created in your team, you’ll see a notice explaining that it will take up to 10 minutes for the bot to be fully created. If you try to edit any topics or entities within your bot too early, you may find yourself getting errors.

 

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a Power Virtual Agents bot on Microsoft Teams!

Now you can choose to Explore bot to view and manage the contents of your bot or Explore docs to browse through Microsoft’s extensive PVA documentation.

Delete a bot

If you decide you don’t need or want your bot, you can delete it just as easily from Teams. Here’s what to do.

1. In the Power Virtual Agents (PVA) Teams app, click Settings ⚙️.
power virtual agents in teams
2. Click the Delete Bot button.

3. Type out the name of the bot and click Delete Bot to confirm bot deletion.
power virtual agents in teams

Add content to your Teams bot

Of course, besides naming the bot and choosing which language you want the bot is hardly the beginning. As you’ll soon discover, the ability to create and manage Power Virtual Agents (PVA) bots without leaving Microsoft Teams is just the beginning of functionality available.

Microsoft has an Employee FAQ PVA Template available if you are looking for an example of what a human resources (HR) chatbot looks like with PVA. If you are interested in importing this content on your own, remember you will also need to add PowerApps to Microsoft Teams. Otherwise, the installation steps are straightforward.

Interested in the next steps? Stay tuned, as we’ll walk through the steps required to add content to your Power Virtual Agents (PVA) chatbot in Teams. We’ll learn how to create, edit and manage topics, enable enhanced AI features and share and publish your bot with your colleagues at your organization and beyond on Microsoft Teams.

Got a Microsoft 365-related question you want to see answered? Let us know in the comments!

How to Increase VRAM on Windows 11: Step by Step

Many PC users want to increase VRAM on Windows 11 to boost performance, primarily when gaming. More VRAM can help with graphically demanding software, but increasing it isn’t as simple as you think.

Today’s guide will show you how to increase the VRAM and answer some of the most asked questions about it.

How do I change VRAM on Windows 11?

Note icon NOTE
Before increasing VRAM, note that this guide is for PCs with integrated graphics using shared RAM; a dedicated GPU is the only real upgrade for more power, these tips only offer a slight boost .

1. Use BIOS

  1. Restart your PC and press the BIOS key repeatedly during the bootup. F2, F5, F8, or the Del key can be used to access the BIOS.Checking VRAM in ASUS motherboard Bios
  2. In the BIOS menu, look for an option called Advanced Features. After that, look for Graphics Settings, Video Settings or VGA Share Memory Size options.
  3. This section should give you the option to change the amount of memory allocated to your GPU. The default value here is 128 MB. If you have enough memory, you can increase this amount to 256 or 512 MB. 
  4. Finally, Save the changes and restart your computer.

This feature is present on all CPUs and BIOS; however, if this method does not work, proceed to the next solution.

2. Use Registry Editor

  1. To launch the Run app, go to the Start menu, type Run, and then hit Enter.Launch Run app to start increasing VRAM
  2. Then type regedit to open Registry Editor.Open Registry
  3. Navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\IntelGo to Intel directory and increase VRAM in windows 11
  4. In the left panel, right-click on the Intel folder, hover mouse over New, and then select Key.Create a new key in registry to increase VRAM
  5. Name the key as GMM then click on it.Name the key GMM
  6. After that, right-click inside the right panel, select New, then click on DWORD (32-bit) Value.right-click inside the right panel and create a new key
  7. Then name it DedicatedSegmentSize. Note that, the initial letter of each word should be capitalized, and no spaces should be used in between the words as you type them.name the key DedicatedSegmentSize
  8. Double-click it, choose Hexadecimal, then enter the recommended value data using your system RAM information and hit OK: 1GB – 128MB; 2GB – 256MB; 4GB – 512MB; 6GB – 1024MB; 8GB – 2048MB; 16GB – 4096MB; 32GB – 8192MB.Put a number in the key to increase VRAM

Now restart your computer to have the modifications take effect, and then test the software or games to see how they function.

Note icon NOTE
Making incorrect changes to the registry can cause problems with your computer’s operating system, so you need to be careful.

How do I check my VRAM capacity?

  1. Use the Windows + I key combination to open the Settings.
  2. Select the Display option from the left pane and choose Advanced Display option.
  3. Then select Display adapter properties.
  4. In the new window, next to the Dedicated Video Memory, you’ll see the amount of video memory in your computer.Check Dedicated Video Memory to know how much you need to increase VRAM in Windows 11

Is it safe to increase virtual memory?

  • Changing VRAM value from BIOS is perfectly safe since you can only use the values that are supported by your processor.
  • Modifying VRAM value from the registry can lead to some performance issues if you don’t set the correct values.
  • Improper modifications of the registry can cause additional problems with the PC.

It’s pretty simple to increase VRAM in Windows 11, but all the solutions from above only work if you’re using a dedicated graphics card.

To learn more about VRAM, we have a great guide on how to find how much VRAM you have and how to clear GPU memory.

If you’re still on Windows 10, don’t miss our guide on how to increase VRAM on Windows 10. Also, don’t forget to visit our guide on how to clear GPU memory for more information.

Have you completed the above procedure? Share your opinion with us in the comments section below.

How to easily download Elden Ring DLC

You’ve been playing Elden Ring for almost two weeks now, or you just started, and there are plenty of things that you still want to know about the game.

It’s understandable, considering that this is a pretty new title and there’s still a lot to learn about all there is, as well as all there is to come.

Whether you need to learn about how to efficiently farm runes, what to do when you can’t find the keyboard controls or multiplayer isn’t working, staying informed is key.

A lot of Elden Ring players have also been asking how exactly they are supposed to download the game’s DLC. We are about to show you just that, making it easier for you to quickly access everything.

What do I have to do in order to get the Elden Ring DLC on PC?

Elden Ring’s Adventure Guide is one of the pre-order bonuses that come along with The Ring bonus gesture.

Just as you expected, the Adventure Guide includes tips and tricks for Elden Ring players taking on an adventure in the Lands Between for the first time.

It’s a great little bonus for all players who pre-purchased the game or bought deluxe and collector’s editions.

Players who have pre-ordered the Elden Ring on Steam can find the Adventure Guide in the DLC section. Simply right-click the Elden Ring icon in your Steam library, select “Properties…” and then the “DLC” tab. You’ll find all of your Elden Ring pre-order content there.

  1. Right-click the Elden Ring icon in your Steam library and select Properties.steam game properties
  2. Select the DLC tab and find all of your Elden Ring pre-order content there.ELDEN RING DLC

How can I get the Elden Ring DLC on Xbox?

Gamers that purchased a digital copy of Bandai Namco’s latest title for Xbox consoles automatically found their content after Elden Ring was officially launched.

However, if you purchased a physical copy of the Elden Ring, you’ll receive a code in exchange for the Adventure Guide and other pre-order bonuses.

  1. Access the Xbox Store on your console.
  2. Scroll down and select Change.
  3. Select Redeem Code
  4. Insert code

How do I get the DLC on PlayStation?

All of the above applies to players that decided to go with Sony’s hardware when it comes to gaming rigs. Depending on what type of copy you bought, the content will be delivered the same way.

And the process of actually getting your hands on it is as easy as for their Microsoft rivals.

  1. Open the PlaySation Store, select your avatar and press X.
  2. Select Redeem Code from the drop-down menu
  3. Enter your pre-order code and select Redeem.

Have you managed to find all the available downloadable content for your Elden Ring game? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.

Like Microsoft, Google also wants to buy Cybersecurity firm Mandiant (update: it’s official)

Back in February, it became apparent that Microsoft was likely to acquire the cybersecurity firm Mandiant. Reports then indicated that the talks might not have resulted in an offer, but a fresh scoop from The Information also now claims that Google might have dipped into the market, and is now also in talks to buy Mandiant.

This new report doesn’t disclose the monetary side of any offers Google might be putting in to buy Mandiant. It cites “a person with knowledge of the discussion.” and is more about how buying the firm could benefit Google’s business. Officially, Google and Microsoft also “did not immediately have a comment,” either.

For Google Though, Mandiant could fit in well with the need for boosting security in their cloud computing business beyond Google Chronicle. That’s a product designed for enterprises to privately retain, analyze, and search the massive amounts of security and network telemetry they generate.  It’s a contrast from Microsoft, which was rumored to be interested in Mandiant because it partnered with SentinelOne, whose incident response products competes with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

It’s been said that bids for Mandiant were due at the end of February, so it might not be too long until we find out who wins out. It could be a tough one for Microsoft, though, as Microsoft has a solid footing in the cyber security fields, and the FTC might want to scrutinize any potential deal.

Mandiant is most famous for discovering the SolarWinds hack, which changed the face of the cyber security industry.

Update March 8th: It’s official, Google is acquiring Mandiant for $5.4 billion.

Elden Ring: Steam restart required [4 steps to fix it]

Have you also jumped on the Elden Ring bandwagon? We ask that because it seems that everybody is only playing Elden Ring nowadays, so the fan base grew dramatically since release.

Even though Bandai Namco’s latest dark fantasy RPG came with quite a number of critical errors and in-game bugs, players won’t turn down an opportunity to get immersed in this virtual world.

Whether killing tough bosses, farming items and runes, or visiting your surroundings is your thing, Elden Ring will surely accommodate your taste.

But what can you do when the game simply won’t collaborate, refusing to launch, or crashing mid-game? The answer is simple: you fix it, either by using specialized software like Outbyte Driver Updater that will update your drivers or by following manual steps depending on your type of error.

How? Don’t worry, as we’re about to show you some tips that will put all this nonsense behind you and allow you to resume your adventure.

How can I fix the Steam Restart required loop error for Elden Ring?

Were you wondering what Elden Ring players are up to nowadays? Simple, they are finding themselves stuck in an endless Steam Restart Required loop when booting up Elden Ring.

Don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world no matter how annoying this is, as we can show you how to move past it and forget it ever happened.

You will firstly you will have to restart the Steam and once it re-opens, but don’t go for opening the game again, you will need to perform a few tasks in order to ensure this won’t happen again.

It will only take a couple of minutes, but in exchange, it will offer you unlimited Elden Ring game time, so let’s get right into it.

  1. Click Steam in the right-hand corner of the application, then select the Check for Steam Client Updates.elden ring steam restart 1
  2. Open Steam Settings, go to Account and press change.steam account
  3. Change current setting to Steam Beta Update and press Ok.steam account 2
  4. Restart Steam completely and Elden Ring should boot up again without a restart.

We know how annoying these issues can be, especially when you spent all that money on a new game and expect it to perform accordingly.

However, software doesn’t always agree with what we want it to do and we end up in this kind of situations. Now that you know how to fix it, nothing can stand in your way, champion.

We also have a great article that explains how to play Elden Ring with DX11, so you might want to visit it.

Was this guide useful to you? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.

Windows 10/11 Setup Failed on Surface Pro 3 [Easy fix]

There are many topics in the Microsoft Community around Surface Pro issues and the problems with installing Windows 10, updating or upgrading, are also frequent.

Many worldwide users reported that Windows 10/11 setup failed on their Surface Pro 3, so it can be pretty annoying.

Now, we’re discussing a more widespread problem that is affecting Surface Pro 3 owners.

What are the most popular Surface Pro 3 set up issues?

We recently covered various problems that one might encounter when installing Windows 10 on Surface Pro 3 hybrids.

It has been brought to our attention that the latest build of Windows 10 fails to install for a good deal of users. Here’s what one of the affected users has been saying:

installed Windows 10 preview on Surface pro 3 – setup went smooth no issues and or errors, after first boot – surface became very unstable – complete hang during log on screen, or auto reboot after log on. I noticed that before the auto -reboot the screen is flickering – black and normal, system hangs, next auto reboot. I’m up to the level of resetting my surface – have the feeling this is taking hours …. wonder if all will be good in the morning. reboot/clean W8.1 pro install from USB failed with strange bios related error. I hope this is just a single surface pro 3 issue

Several forum moderators hinted that the issue might be related to Connected Standby, therefore you are advised to disable that and see if the setup will work as it’s supposed to.

He then said he was able to get into safe mode, went into the event viewer, and found that the application host was crashing. Here’s another user saying that his screen flickers and that refresh/repair doesn’t work either:

Similar problems as above. I can log in, but the screen flickers every 10-15 seconds or so and is very unresponsive. Will ultimately reboot. Refresh/repair doesn’t work, nor does windows rollback. I’m currently SOL and holding off on a clean install of 8.1 hoping someone comes up with a fix.

The problem is still affecting Surface Pro 3 owners, so if you happen to know a working solution to this temporary problem, do leave your comment below and we’ll be sure to look into it and inform others.

How can I prperly install Windows 10/11 on Surface Pro 3?

  1. Press simultaneously on the Windows and R keys, then type cmd, and hit Enter.
  2. Enter the following command into the command line and press Enter: rundll32.exe pnpclean.dll,RunDLL_PnpClean /DRIVERS /MAXCLEAN
  3. Let the process finish and restart your device

After some time, we finally managed to find a solution for Windows 10 installation problem on Surface Pro 3 devices.

If Windows 10/11 setup failed on your Surface Pro 3, you’ll have to execute one simple command in the Command Prompt, and the above steps show exactly what you need to do.

How do I reinstall Windows 10/11 on my Surface Pro 3?

  1. Turn off your Surface Pro.
  2. Insert the USB recovery drive into the USB port on the Surface Laptop.
  3. Hold at the same time the volume-down button and power button.
  4. Release the buttons when the Surface logo appears.
  5. Select your language and keyboard settings.
  6. Click on Troubleshoot.
  7. Select Recover from a drive. If prompted for a recovery key, select Skip this drive.
  8. Select Just remove my files.
  9. Select Recover.
    This will take some time and will restart your Surface Laptop.
    Wait for the proccess to finalize, and Windows 10 S is reinstalled on your Surface Laptop.

To reinstall Windows 10/11 on your Surface Pro, you need to make sure you have created a USB recovery drive. You can do this by following our guide to backup Windows 10 in less than 5 minutes.

You can follow this full guide to reinstall Windows 10 or use the quick guide above.

What can I do to optimize Surface Pro 3?

1. Check the Power Mode settings in use

  1. Select the batter icon from your Windows Taskbar.
  2. If youre device supports the Power Mode, move the related slider to either the Better performance or Best performance setting.

Newer devices have an adjustable power mode to allow you to balance your preference between best battery life and best performance. To view this setting, follow the above steps.

2. Plug in and let your Surface cool down

Because your Surface may be too hot, try moving it to a cooler spot, wait five minutes, and see if it runs faster. When possible, plug in your Surface.

If you are running a memory-intensive app, such as streaming video or playing a game, try closing it for a few minutes. That may cool your Surface down.

3. Check for low disk space and free up space

  1. Use the following keyboard shortcut to open Windows Settings: Windows + I.
  2. Navigate to System.
  3. From the left window pane, go to Storage, then choose to Configure Storage sense or run it now.
  4. Make sure that Delete temporary files that my apps aren’t using option is checked.
  5. In the Run Storage Sense menu, choose how often you want Storage Sense to run.
  6. Now, choose how often you want to Delete my files in my recycle bin if they have been there for over: Also, in the Delete files in my Downloads folder if they haven’t been opened for more than: choose the option the fits you the best.
  7. Scroll down and under the Free up space now option, click on the Clean now button.

Keep in mind that when you turn on your PC, some programs start automatically and run in the background. You can disable these programs so they don’t run when your PC starts.

As many programs are designed to start automatically when Windows does, you might not even be realizing they’re running.

This is helpful for programs you use a lot, but not for programs you don’t use often because it increases the time it takes Windows to start.

4. Update and fix your drivers

4.1 Manually

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Device Manager, then open the first result.
  2. Expand the section that is directly related to your damaged drivers.
  3. Right-click on the needed driver, the choose to Update driver.
  4. Now, click on Search automatically for drivers.
  5. If there are any compatible available options, you’ll be notified.

4.2 Automatically

To always keep your Surface Pro optimized, we strongly recommend using dedicated software that will take care of your components in a specialized way.

Outbyte Driver Updater is a driver monitoring and updating software package for Windows. It will scan all your device drivers and searches the web for the most recent updates.

For those of you who are beginners, keep in mind that its interface is extremely user-friendly, so it won’t give you headaches.

Outbyte Driver Updater automatically scans your entire computer for missing or outdated drivers at any time. Afterward, you can update the outdated ones or download the missing ones afresh.

Outbyte Driver Updater scans your drivers against a vast database of over 18 million driver files. Hence, you’re always likely to find the correct drivers on that database.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Outbyte Driver Updater

Outbyte Driver Updater will always keep your Sruface Pro 3 drivers clean and up to date.
Free trial Visit website

It seems like many users are extremely interested in discovering some efficient ways to optimize their Surface Pro 3 and if it happens to be in the same boat, we’re here to help you!

If you carefully follow the steps below, your device will surely be optimized and you’ll be able to use it without any issues.

What other related issues can I encounter on Surface Pro 3?

Of course, because it is always important to be aware of and prevent any related issues, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular related issues that you can face on Surface Pro 3.

  • Surface Pro 3 won’t boot – Testers of Windows 10 Insider Build 16288 might have noticed that it left Surface Pro 3 laptops in an unbootable state and stuck on the spinning dots screen, and it seems like more Surface Pro 3 laptops feature the same issue.
  • The Surface Pro 3 fails to update to new builds – In this case, Surface Pro 3 and Surface 3 devices won’t install the new builds if a SD memory card is inserted. Fortunately, if you ever encounter this problem, you can always access and follow some useful solutions.
  • Surface Pro Heat and Fan Issues After Windows 10 Install – Surface Pro 3 owners have reported various problems related to the install of Windows 10, meaning that the setup failed to complete properly. Luckly, this issue can be easily solved if you choose the right steps to go around with.

That would be all, if Windows 10/11 setup failed on your Surface Pro 3, after running this simple command in the Command Prompt, you should be able to install Windows 10 on your Surface Pro 3 normally.

Let us know if you face any additional questions, by leaving a comment in the section below.

Farm millions of Elden Ring Runes in record time

What is the most valuable asset in Elden Ring? Many will say that the rewards dropped by defeated bosses are, in fact, it.

Yes, we can all agree that getting that new piece of armor and adding another notch to your belt is pretty valuable, but it still isn’t what you should focus on, especially early-game.

As a matter of fact, gamers that already deciphered Elden Ring understood that without runes you simply can’t advance or level up, therefore making them the most valuable asset.

A lot of Elden Ring players have been complaining about the lack of runes and the hard time they have to advance because of this.

Runes are the main currency of Elden Ring, and much like Souls in previous souls titles, Runes act as the XP and purchase currency at vendors within The Lands Between.

Players can actually lose their Runes upon death, and a bloodstain is generated at the place of defeat. Returning to this place and reclaiming your runes will allow you to re-acquire them.

However, if you perish a second time before getting there, the Runes will be lost forever and you’ll have a much harder time besting your foes.

How can I get more runes in Elden Ring?

Rune farming has been quite a discussed topic during these last few weeks, as players wanted to go know exactly where they have to go and what they have to do in order to obtain more runes.

There are ways in which you can farm literally millions of runes in mearly a few hours, provided you know how the process works.

Gamers also reporting losing a lot of runes in Stormveil Castle, because of an NPC named Gatekeeper Gostoc, that actually steals Runes from you.

Any Elden Ring players that want their stolen runes back simply need to kill Gatekeeper Gostoc to claim them. 

We’re about to show you one of the fastest way to get Runes, a process that can ammount to 2.4 million Runes per hour, if you are fast enough.

  1. Obtain the Golden Scarab item in-game.golden scarab
  2. Return to the first in-game Point of Grace and inspect the message, after defeating Godrick.point of grace elden ring
  3. Return to the Rose Church, talk to the NPC and complete a small questline. Elden Ring Rose Church
  4. Obtain the Pureblood’s Knight Medal and use it to teleport to Mohgwyn Pallace to begin the farm.pureblood knight medal
  5. Locate a point of Grace nearby, to make it easier to respawn and keep farming.lost grace elden ring
  6. Keep killing the big cluster of mobs next to the Point of Grace repeatedly. farm runes elden ring

By repeatedly killing these NPCs, you can get 2000, or even 2400 souls, if you have the Golden Scarab. How’s that for some pretty easy and efficient farming?

Have you managed to increase your Elden Ring Rune farm output? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.

Virtual Keyboard: 10 Best Software for Windows in 2026

Virtual keyboards can be quite useful, especially if you have a keylogger that can steal your sensitive information such as login details.

Some users tend to use virtual keyboards because they have problems using their keyboard or because their keyboard isn’t working properly.

Windows 10 has its own virtual keyboard, but if you’re looking for a third-party solution, today we’re going to show you the best virtual keyboard software that you can download.

What is the best virtual keyboard software?

Hot Virtual Keyboard (recommended)

If you’re looking for advanced virtual keyboard software, you might be interested in Hot Virtual Keyboard. The keyboard is customizable and you can choose from many different looks and styles.

Regarding customization, there are more than 70 styles available, but you can also create your unique style if you want. In addition, there’s support for multiple languages and layouts. We also have to mention that this keyboard supports an auto-complete function that will make typing easier and faster than before.

Additional features include programmable keys and shortcuts so you can easily launch applications or open certain web pages with a single click. The keyboard also supports macros, so you can record them and use them with just a few clicks.

It’s worth mentioning that this keyboard also supports gestures, so you can add spaces or change the case of the letters with a single gesture.

As for additional features, this application supports different Windows actions, so you can change the volume, control the playback, turn off your monitor and perform all sorts of other actions simply by clicking the dedicated button on your virtual keyboard.

Hot Virtual Keyboard is an advanced virtual keyboard, and it offers great customization and an array of different features. This tool isn’t free, but you can download the evaluation version and use it for 30 days.

Hot Virtual Keyboard

Have a try with this fresh-looking virtual keyboard for faster and more accurate typing.
Check price Visit website

Comfort Screen Keyboard Pro

Comfort Screen Keyboard Pro is a universal on-screen keyboard created to help the users of portable PCs, tablets, or Surface devices.

With this practical virtual keyboard, you have universal support for multiple types of devices. You can utilize it on your PC with pointing devices like a mouse, touch screen, or a pen in order to type without effort.

It’s possible to fully customize the keyboard aspect with various colors and skins, change the size of keys or numbers, modify strokes positions, and more.

Using this on-screen keyboard offers multi-language support. That means you can write in multiple languages with characters that are available for most languages, without any localization settings.

In addition, this software can display Windows-specific shortcut icons on the keys to help you move faster on your device.

With Developer support, you have helpful functionalities to control the on-screen keyboard when you’re writing software code.

Comfort Screen Keyboard Pro

Write using this on-screen keyboard to have maximum productivity on all your devices.
Check price Visit website

Free Virtual Keyboard

This virtual keyboard will work on any Windows device that has a touchscreen display, so it’s perfect if you can’t adjust to your device’s physical keyboard.

The keyboard has large keys so you can easily type with your fingertips. It’s worth mentioning that this keyboard supports pointing devices, so users with mobility impairments can use it as well.

Also, this keyboard supports customization, so you can easily change the size, color, or transparency of the keyboard with a single click. We have to mention that changing the color is relatively simple, but you can’t use a custom color, instead, you can toggle between a couple of available presets.

The keyboard supports the auto-repeat function and you can repeat the keystrokes simply by keeping the certain button clicked.

Free Virtual Keyboard is a simple tool, and it offers all the necessary features. We have to mention that a portable version is also available, so you can easily run Free Virtual Keyboard on any PC without installation.

⇒ Get Free Virtual Keyboard

Click-N-Type

Click-N-Type is a simple virtual keyboard that can be useful to users that have problems using a physical keyboard. The keyboard supports word prediction which makes typing faster and simpler. The keyboard also supports macros, which can be rather useful. In addition to macros, the keyboard offers support for AutoClick and Scanning Modes.

This tool offers support for multiple languages and it has many languages and keyboard packs available. We have to mention that there’s a Keyboard Designer feature that allows you to make your own keyboard designs.

Of course, there are custom user-created designs available as well. The tool offers audible and visible feedback thanks to the Spoken Keys feature. Click-N-Type works with all pointing devices including a head mouse, and it even works with virtual mouse programs.

Click-N-Type offers decent features, but we have to admit that the application has a humble user interface that might not appeal to certain users.

Despite the user interface, this is still a great application, so you might want to try it out. Click-N-Type is available for free, and you can download and use the portable version on any PC without installation.

⇒ Get Click-N-Type

Touch-It Virtual Keyboard

If you’re looking for a virtual keyboard that supports a wide range of features, you might want to consider Touch-It Virtual Keyboard. This virtual keyboard supports both desktop and Winlogon, so it’s perfect for all your needs. The keyboard works on demand and you can start it simply by clicking its floating icon in the bottom right corner.

Touch-It Virtual Keyboard works with multiple languages and it supports multiple monitors and remote desktops. The keyboard is fully customizable and it supports an unlimited number of actions by key. In addition, it also supports Pascal scripting. The keyboard has a modern design, so it will match the look of Universal apps with ease. The keyboard can also appear whenever you select an input field, which is rather useful. This virtual keyboard is customizable and you can even design your own keyboard if you want.

Touch-It Virtual Keyboard is a great tool, and our only complaint is the size of the keyboard. Although it might be easier for some users to use the full-width keyboards on their PC, we found that the full-width version is taking too much space for our liking. Despite this minor flaw, this is still a great application and you can download and try the evaluation version for free.

⇒ Get Touch-It Virtual Keyboard

VirtualKeyboard

Another simple and free virtual keyboard for your PC is VirtualKeyboard. This tool has a humble user interface, and it supports self-training predictive text. Thanks to this feature you can quickly and easily enter words.

Additional features include color coding, multiple dictionaries, and user-made macros. The keyboard also supports an effective sweep scanning mode thus allowing you to control the keyboard with a single click.

The keyboard also has common functions available such as copy, cut, and paste, which is rather useful.

Changing the dictionary is quite simple, and you can do it right from the dropdown menu with just a few clicks.

VirtualKeyboard is a decent tool, but its humble user interface might turn away some users. If you want to try this tool, you can download it and use it for free.

⇒ Get VirtualKeyboard

Neo’s SafeKeys v3

Virtual keyboards can be useful especially if you’re concerned that your computer is infected with malware or a keylogger. Keyloggers will monitor your keyboard input and send it to malicious users without your knowledge. If you want to protect your personal information, you might want to use Neo’s SafeKeys v3.

This application allows you to enter your login information without using a physical keyboard. This is one of the safest ways to protect your login information from malicious users. The tool also has screen logger protection that will protect your sensitive information at all times.

We have to mention that this virtual keyboard supports Injection Mode so you can use this tool with programs that don’t accept the drag and drop methods. The tool also supports transparency and auto-hiding thus making your passwords secure from malicious users. Neo’s SafeKeys v3 also supports hover entry, so you can enter your password without even clicking your mouse.

Neo’s SafeKeys v3 is a great tool if you want to protect your login information from malicious users. This is a decent virtual keyboard, and it’s available for free. In addition to being free, this tool is also portable, and it will work on any PC without installation.

⇒ Get Neo’s SafeKeys

EyesBoard

This tool is designed to work with any Windows device that has a touchscreen display. We have to mention that this keyboard supports Windows logon screen so you can easily log in to Windows by using this tool.

The keyboard is multi-lingual and the key layout will adapt to the current input locale. To make switching between different inputs easier, the tool has a dedicated button that allows you to switch inputs instantly.

This virtual keyboard can be resized and moved freely so you can easily adjust it. In addition to a standard keyboard, you can also use numeric keyboard and function keys.

The application supports special shortcuts such as multimedia player, web browser, etc. The tool also has a floating icon, so you can easily open the virtual keyboard at any time. EyesBoard virtual keyboard has Caps Lock and Num Lock indicators and it even supports Ctrl+Alt+Del and Win+L shortcuts.

Regarding customization, this tool supports different color schemes and several levels of transparency. If you want, you can even lock the keyboard at the bottom of your screen so that it doesn’t interfere with any open windows.

If you’re a developer, you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s an API available for third-party integration, so you can expand the functionality of the keyboard even further.

As for customization, all keys and keypads are defined in XML so you can easily modify them if you want.

EyesBoard is a decent virtual keyboard and it offers all the features that basic users will need. This application isn’t free, but you can download the evaluation version and use it for 15 days.

⇒ Get EyesBoard

My-T-Soft Virtual Keyboard

My-T-Soft Virtual Keyboard comes with over 200 international layouts, so it will support almost any language. The application supports up to 2000 keystrokes on each button, and you can also group up to 15 buttons on a panel. Using this tool you can assign any of the 63 functions to any button thus allowing a great level of customization.

This virtual keyboard has its own 4-function calculator that will always remain on top of all other windows. This allows you to enter the desired input right into the open document or input field. There’s also a built-in Magnifier tool that allows you to magnify a certain part of your screen in order to see it better.

My-T-Soft Virtual Keyboard supports customization and you can change the background color or the color of the open panel. In addition, you can change the color of the button text, button face, button highlight, button shadow, and keyboard background. If you want to customize your keyboard even further, you can use the Developer Kit to do so.

This application is fully compatible with touchscreens, but it also works with trackballs, pens, or any other pointing device. The keyboard supports infinite sizing and allows you to show and hide certain keys.

In addition, there are 11 panels available, and you can also create your own panels if you want to. Just like many other virtual keyboards, this one also supports macros so you can start certain programs simply by pressing the appropriate shortcuts.

My-T-Soft Virtual Keyboard supports a wide range of features, so it will be perfect for basic and advanced users alike. We have to mention that this application has a humble and slightly outdated user interface that might turn away some users.

The free demo is available for download, but if you want to continue using this application, you’ll need to purchase a full version.

⇒ Get My-T-Soft Virtual Keyboard

BeKey On-Screen Keyboard

This virtual keyboard is a keyboard replacement, and it comes with smart word prediction that will allow you to enter words quickly.

A virtual keyboard memorizes your words as you enter them so the more you use it the more suggestion you’ll get while typing.

We also have to mention that the word prediction can also predict the next word that you’ll enter, thus making typing process faster and streamlined. Regarding the predictions, they are available in 23 different languages.

This virtual keyboard supports customization and you can easily change the size of the keyboard, button size, the distance between buttons, font size, etc. Plus, this keyboard is optimized for single clicks, but it also supports hover mode that lets you enter words without a single click.

The tool also supports different skins and levels of transparency and it even allows you to create text macros. There are also special keys for frequently used tasks and scanning modes for 1 or 2 switches.

BeKey On-Screen Keyboard is a great tool and you can use the trial version for 30 days. If you want to continue using this tool, you’ll need to purchase a license.

⇒ Get BeKey On-Screen Keyboard

Virtual keyboard software can be quite useful, and if you’re looking for a third-party virtual keyboard, be sure to check some of these tools.

Keyboard Slow or Delayed Response: 9 Methods to Speed It Up

Are you struggling to complete your work because of a typing lag or slow keyboard response? If you tried restarting your computer or installing any pending updates, and it didn’t work, try these tried and tested solutions to help resolve the typing issue in Windows 10.

Why is my keyboard typing very slow?

If you’re having Bluetooth keyboard lag, something may be interfering with your device, so it’s advised to move closer to the adapter or find the source of the problem. Here are some other possible issues:

  • Keyboard damage – It’s possible that your keyboard isn’t typing because it’s damaged, so pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from the keyboard, especially when typing. This is often the reason behind keyboard delay on Windows 11.
  • Driver mismatch or conflict – If you install a new keyboard and still have the old one installed, the two drivers may conflict.
  • Software interference – Some software installed lately that has something to do with typing might interfere with the normal usage of your device.

If you’re using a laptop, you might want to check our laptop keyboard not working guide for more solutions. Our reader reported a Dell laptop keyboard with a slow response, but it can happen on any device brand.

Now that we know where the problems arise let’s go to the actual solutions to fix the keyboard’s delayed response.

How do I fix the keyboard’s slow response?

Before starting any advanced procedures, let’s go through some easy-to-follow preliminary measures:

  • Restart your PC and see if there are any changes.
  • If you’re using a wireless keyboard, use a wired mouse or keyboard to restart your computer, then plug in the USB receiver directly into your computer instead of using a hub.
  • Disable any startup programs from starting upon boot, as they may be causing the typing lag or slow keyboard response.

If nothing has changed after these steps, try the solutions below to fix the problem.

1. Run the Keyboard troubleshooter

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Choose Update & security from the available options.
  3. Pick the Troubleshoot tab from the left, then select Additional troubleshooters from the right.
  4. Click the Keyboard option to expand it and hit the Run the troubleshooter button.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the troubleshooting.

Running the Keyboard troubleshooting is the easiest thing you can do to find if there are any problems with the hardware or driver, and many of our readers have managed to fix the keyboard lag problem with this solution.

2. Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows + R key combination to start the Run console.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
  3. Click on Next to start the troubleshooting.

If you’re experiencing problems with your computer’s keyboard, the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter will fix the issue quickly. If you can’t find the tool, here’s a guide on what to do if Hardware and Devices troubleshooter is missing.

3. Boot in Safe Mode

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Click Update & Security.
  3. Select Recovery from the left pane, go to Advanced startup and click the Restart now button.
  4. Select Troubleshoot from the Choose an option screen.
    typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  5. Click Advanced options.typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  6. Go to Startup Settings.typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  7. Click Restart.
  8. Once your computer restarts, a list of options will come up.
  9. Choose 4 or F4 to start your computer in Safe Mode.

Safe Mode starts up your computer with limited files and drivers, but Windows will still run. To know whether you’re on Safe mode, you’ll see the words at the corners of your screen.

If Safe mode is not working on Windows 10, this detailed guide will help you get past the booting problems.

If the problem isn’t there while in Safe mode, then your default settings and basic drivers are not contributing to the issue.

4. Run DISM and SFC scans

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd and select Run as administrator from the results.
  2. Type this command to scan for missing components and press Enter: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth 
  3. Type this command to check for missing or broken files and press Enter to run it: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  4. Type this command to scan and correct any causes of the Windows 10 desktop is slow to load issues, and press Enter to run it: Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Wait for all the DISM scans to finish, then type the following command to run a SFC scan and press Enter: sfc/scannow

The DISM and SFC tools will help you fix Windows corruption and disk errors.

This happens when Windows Updates and service packs fail to install due to corruption errors, like if you have a damaged system file.

If you’re having trouble accessing Command Prompt as an admin, then you better take a closer look at this comprehensive guide. Or even better, you can use dedicated repair software.

5. Update or install the drivers

  1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Keyboards category, right-click your device, and select Update driver.
  3. Select Search automatically for drivers.
  4. If the system finds any new drivers, it will install them. Also, if you find more than one devices in the section that you don’t know about, right-click on them and select Uninstall device.

In case Windows does not find a new driver, you can look for one on your device’s manufacturer’s website and follow the details of the instructions.

Note that manually downloading and updating drivers can damage your system when you choose and install the wrong version. You can always rely on a professional driver updater for this task.

6. Perform a Clean boot

  1. Press the Windows key + R to start the Run console, type msconfig, and press Enter or click OK.
  2. Find the Services tab.typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  3. Select Hide all Microsoft services box.typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  4. Click Disable all.typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.typing lag/slow keyboard response in Windows 10
  6. Close Task Manager, then click OK.
  7. Reboot your computer.

This reduces conflicts related to software that can bring up the root causes of the typing lag/slow keyboard response.

These conflicts can be caused by applications and services that start up and run in the background whenever you start Windows normally.

7. Create a new user profile

  1. Click Start and select Settings.
  2. Select Accounts.
  3. Click Family and other users, then choose Add someone else to this PC from the right pane.
  4. Fill in the form with the user name and password. Your new user account will be created.
  5. Click on the Change account type option.
  6. Click the drop down arrow and choose Administrator to set the account to the administrator level.
  7. Restart your computer.
  8. Login to the new account you just created.

Create a new user profile, then change settings to administrator privileges, and check if the problem persists.

8. Install drivers in compatibility mode

  1. Download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website and save it on your local disk.
  2. Press the Windows key + E to start File Explorer and navigate to where you stored the downloaded file. By default, you will find it in the Downloads folder.
  3. Right-click on the setup file of the downloaded driver and select Properties.
  4. Click the Compatibility tab.
  5. Check the box next to Run this program in Compatibility mode and select the Operating System from the drop-down list.
  6. Hit Apply and OK, then double-click the file to launch it. The driver will install, then check its functionality.

9. Run System Maintenance Troubleshooter

  1. Click Start, type control panel and click on Control Panel from the results.
  2. Make sure you select Large icons under the View by option, then click on Troubleshooting.
  3. Click on System and Security.
  4. Click on System Maintenance.
  5. Click Next and follow the instructions to run the System Maintenance Troubleshooter.
  6. If prompted, click on Try troubleshooting as an administrator.

We hope our guide helped you fix the keyboard lag or responsiveness issues, and now everything is working correctly.

You might also be interested in our guide on what to do if your keyboard is double typing.

Let us know if any of these helped by commenting in the section below. Also, leave any other questions you may have, and we’ll be sure to take a look.

Windows 11 version 22H2 has been officially declared Feature Complete

As most of you remember, Windows 11 officially began its life on the 5th of October 2021, when the Redmond-based tech giant deemed it public-ready.

Nothing further from the truth, unfortunately, as lots of users avoided making the transition because of all the bugs and the overall bad experience.

When talking about the new OS, Microsoft stated it plans to release a single feature update per year for Windows 11 and 10 going forward.

Now, we’re more than pleased to announce that the first feature update for Windows 11 has been declared as feature complete. 

Windows 11 22H2 could begin its rollout this summer

Microsoft just released Insider Preview build 22567 for Windows 11 and a cumulative update build, which brings the build number to 22567.100.

The KB included no new features or changes, as its main purpose was to test the servicing pipeline for builds in the Dev channel according to Microsoft.

Thus, this latest update confirms the version of the next feature update, as Microsoft lists it as Windows 11 version 22H2 in Windows Update.

You might also like to know that the version indicates the timeline in which the new version will be released, which in this case is the second half of 2022.

Although many of you were still hoping for extra additions, no new features are going to be added to Windows 11 versions once they are declared feature complete.

The tech giant will continue to work on new features for the next feature update, one that is scheduled for release in 2023.

The information came from Zac Mendez on Friday, when he announced on Telegram that the Feature Complete for Windows 11 22H2 is actually real.

As far as Windows 10 is concerned, work on version 22H2 will continue over the upcoming weeks and months.

Microsoft developers will use this time to also fix some of the pending issues and also improve features that have been added already to the new feature update.

Windows 11 Insiders are already expecting the tech giant to send this new version to the Beta development channel soon, in order to increase the number of devices that participate in testing.

Developers have yet to announce a release date for Windows 11 version 22H2, but rumors suggest that it may be released this summer.

In other words, Windows 11 version 22H2 could be finished in May 2022, and released between June 21 and September 23 of 2022 according to internet speculations.

Let’s not forget this is Microsoft and, even with development still underway, we also have to consider that delays may occur, pushing the release date to October 2022 or even later than that.

The developer build versions of Windows 11 may receive new features in the coming builds as these are active development builds.

All of the Dev builds will move to a new build number eventually that distinguishes it from beta and stable versions of the operating system.

When do you think Microsoft will be ready to start rolling out this first huge update for Windows 11? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

Piping Design Software – 5 Best to Use in 2026

Piping design is the detailed specification of the physical piping layout within a process plant or commercial building. In earlier days, this was sometimes called drafting, technical drawing, engineering drawing, and design.

Today this task is commonly performed by designers that have learned to use automated computer-aided drawing or computer-aided design (CAD) software.

However, it’s much easier to design complicated piping schemes and develop detailed projects using automated software that offers all the tools you need.

Given that these 3D designing tools are prevalent in the industry, they can be used in different areas for piping or plant designs. Plus, even large companies use this kind of software in order to build ambitious projects.

You can also confidently pick one of these 2D or 3D piping tools for more support on your engineering schemes.

In this article, we will list the best options for piping design CAD software available on the market.

Which software is best for piping design?

CorelCAD

CorelCAD is an affordable CAD solution for professional 2D drafting and 3D design. It offers industry-standard file compatibility with .DWG, .STL, PDF and .CDR.

CorelCAD has a new user interface that enhances time-saving and offers a more intuitive way to design professional 2D or 3D drafts.

The 2D drafting feature offers new helix tools for 2D spirals, advanced table tools, and a MultiLeader tool to configure and adjust callouts as your drawings evolve.

The 3D capabilities offered in CoredCAD offer you a simple way to transform your 2D designs into 3D layouts with a wide array of intuitive tools – EntityGrips, Properties palette.

ColedCAD is fully compatible with AutoCAD R2018 .DWG file format that ensures easy collaboration with your business partners.

Features:

  • Native .DWG files – easy sharing with bot internal teams and external suppliers
  • Compatibility with all major CAD programs
  • 3D solid editing and modeling tools
  • Table supports – allows you to export and import tables in CSV format (Microsoft Excel)
  • Edit 3D objects by using smart tools
  • BlockAttribute properties and settings
  • Quick InputPlay – brings commands directly to the cursor to easily input coordinate positions, lengths, angles, lines, etc.
  • Auto-completion function for easy predictive typing
  • Ability to add drawing constraints
  • Dynamic blocks
  • Easy file sharing

CorelCAD

Get this 2D drafting software for manufacturing professionals who need to upscale their designing projects.
Check price Visit website

Edraw P&ID Designer

Edraw P&ID Designer interface

Edraw P&ID Designer is a professional tool that enables you to instantly generate piping and instrumentation diagrams. It can help you create professional-looking p&id, plant p&id, chemical p&id, distribution p&id, and also power P&ID.

Even beginners can easily use Edraw P&ID designer because of its predefined shapes and easy drag-and-drop creation process. All the shapes included in this powerful program are vectors allowing you to design high-resolution plans.

Edraw also bolsters a set of powerful and very useful tools called ‘auto-connection that helps you connect pipe shapes quickly. Some of the shapes used in the process of creation have text boxes attached so labeling is convenient.

The wide array of standard and smart shapes can also be used in many kinds of engineering diagrams. Shapes are constructed with a floating action button for flexible modifications and one shape has many varieties that users can change easily either by changing the theme or changing the font color and lines.

It is 100% integrated with MS programs and supports 18 formats of export. It was designed to work together with your colleagues, easily share designs with stakeholders and run design presentations.

The images created can be either simplified with black and white symbols or colorful photo-realistic images. One other great feature is the fact that the images are fully editable – you can change color, resize, separate.

You can find a full ‘How-to’ guide on the tool’s official page.

Edraw P&ID Designer

Edraw P&ID Designer

If you want efficient piping design software for building anything, do it facile with Edraw P&ID Designer.
Try it freeVisit website

Cadmatic Plant Design

Cadmatic-Plant-Design interface

Cadmatic 3D Plant Design is a powerful database-driven tool that gives you tools for creating 3D layouts, piping, HVAC, cable tray, and structural designs of plants in shaded and colored views. It also produces information for installation and ordering materials.

The piping design feature includes unique tools for piping designers to easily create complex piping designs. The design process is fully integrated with diagrams and pipe routing that ensure your design is intuitive and easy to understand.

Cadmatic Plant Design assures you that the correct components from the standards library are being used when creating a piping design. This program takes advantage of the suggested connection points according to the diagram and online collision control, allowing you to create piping designs without errors.

With each software update, extensive standards are provided (DIN, ANSI, ASME, EN, and others). The powerful piping design modification tools give you the possibility to change the pipe routing geometry, the nominal sizes of pipes, and separate components, checking pipe connection compatibility automatically.

Cadmatic Plant Design 3D viewing technique and model database structure keep your designs extremely light and user-friendly even in the most complicated plant models.

The pipe and cable tray routing is constructed so it is driven by your specifications, ensuring that the correct materials, sizes, and components are being used.

Other features include:

  • Component Manager – allows you to model different kinds of components such as pumps, tanks, etc.
  • Integration with P&ID
  • Ability to share data between the diagram and 3D models
  • Compatible with Microsoft products and MTOs
  • Follow-up reports
  • Automated and semi-automated annotation functions

⇒ Get Cadmatic Plant Design

CADWorx

CADWorx interface

CADWorx is an integrated complete AutoCAD and BricsCAD based software that provides intelligent drawing and database connectivity, a professional level of automation, and easy-to-use drafting tools.

This software is quick and easy to set up and use. The bi-directional links between CADWorx and analysis programs for pipes and vessels enable you to easily share information while keeping the entire information database synchronized.

You can as well use this drawing design tool to improve collaboration with instruments such as markups, design comments, or redlining. With CADWorx Review you can review models by designers or other stakeholders anytime.

Moreover, using CADWorx P&ID Professional drawing piping or instrumentation diagrams becomes easy and fast enough to meet your workflow standards. Also, it provides flexibility in sharing your results with the stakeholders, constant support with plant project execution, and so on.

The main idea is that with such an integrated suite of benefits you can maximize your piping projects and easily create impressive designs.

Therefore, this platform provides complex piping and design instrumentation services, using intelligent features made to help you design successful projects.

Key features include:

  • Intelligent design – easily create diagrams and share data with stakeholders
  • Supports different industries – chemical, offshore, piping, power, etc.
  • Link information to P&ID components
  • Place P&ID components accurately by piping specifications
  • Easily publish to a browser
  • Automatically create instrument loop diagrams
  • CADWorx Instrument & Equipment Datasheets
  • Use 3D visualization to check for errors

⇒ Get CADWorx

Aveva Everything3D

Aveva Everything3D is another software option for pipe designing offering you complete support for migrating from AVEVA PDMS projects reducing cost, timescale, and project risks.

AVEVA 3D has the ability to shorten project stages, reduce efforts and eliminating errors and rework while offering options for more efficient collaboration.

At the same time, this advanced 3D design solution can boost your engineering drawing reports exponentially thus generating a time-effort balance. The multi-disciplinarity of this software can guide anyone to create 3D designs regardless of the industry.

Other important features imply fast deployment and project start, easier regulatory compliance to ensure your drawings or clash-free design efficiency.

Besides all, such potent software can be used in power industries as well, such as the marine sector, plant projecting.

Hence choosing this solution to design your buildings of any infrastructure you assure designing productivity and design successful outcomes.

Key features include:

  • Rapid project star-up
  • Design efficiency
  • Easy to adhere to regulatory, industry , company and project standards
  • Side-panel that lists all related available documentation in the Digital Asset relating to a selected object
  • Universal viewer – presents information directly inside AVEVA

⇒ Get Aveva Everything3D

Conclusion

In this article, we listed some of the best options of piping design software offering you a wide range of features to cover all your piping design needs. These options give you the tools you need to create 2D and 3D models at a professional level.

Let us know what you think about these tools in the comment section below.

Fix: Office 365 cannot open any more databases (error 3048)

Are you unable to access Microsoft Office 365 after a recent update? And it is showing a “Cannot open any more databases (error 3048)” error message.

If so, then you have landed on the right page. Because in this guide, we will explain what could be the reason behind cannot open any more databases error 3048, and give you a set of solutions that would hopefully fix the error at hand.

To give you a brief overview of this issue, the Microsoft Office 365 error 3048 which shows cannot open any more databases error message is a bug that is found at the runtime.

When this error occurs, Microsoft Office 365 fails to run properly or crashes while it is running. This issue has been reported by multiple users on Microsoft’s official support pages as well as other forums.

This cannot open any more databases error 3048 is not a new problem. However, it seems like, after a recent update, this error has accelerated and is troubling more users than before.

The fact of the matter is that even though this is not a new problem, it has been overlooked by the developers of Microsoft Office 365. As there isn’t a permanent solution or fix for this cannot open any more databases error 3048, as of yet.

Whatever the case may be, in this guide, we will list down all the solutions that you can try and apply and possibly fix the cannot open any more databases error 3048 issue in the process.

What actually are the reasons behind cannot open any more databases error 3048 in Microsoft Office 365?

Before we take a look at the solutions, it is important to understand the reasons that are causing that particular issue.

The cannot open any more databases error 3048 in Microsoft Office 365 is a runtime error. As already mentioned, when it surfaces, you will face trouble opening or operating the Office 365 software.

However, this error does not mean that the software is corrupt in any way. There is a possibility that it is caused by a virus or malware, but this is not always the case.

It could be that the underlying code did not work during the Microsoft Office 365 runtime. And if that happens, you will see this annoying pop-up on your screen.

There isn’t a specific error message for this error either. You will see different types of error messages, which are all related to error 3048.

Here is a list of some of the error messages for the cannot open any more databases error 3048 issue, you could come across:

  • Microsoft Access Error 3048 Application Error.
  • Microsoft Access Error 3048 not valid.
  • Sorry, Microsoft Access Error 3048 encountered a problem.
  • Cannot find Microsoft Access Error 3048.
  • Microsoft Access Error 3048 can’t be found.
  • Problem starting application: Microsoft Access Error 3048.
  • Microsoft Access Error 3048 not working.
  • Microsoft Access Error 3048 failed.
  • Microsoft Access Error 3048: App Path is Faulting.

There are chances that this error could pop up because of a virus infection, or because of a sudden drop in internet connection. Moreover, it could be because of important file deletion or faulty installation also.

An important point to note is that these error messages could pop up with any of the Microsoft Office 365 related apps, including MS Word, MS Excel, MS OneNote, MS Access, or MS Publisher.

Now that you have some idea about Microsoft Office 365 cannot open any more databases error 3048, let us check out the solutions that could help you resolve it.

How can I fix cannot open any more databases error 3048 in Microsoft Office 365?

1. Close the affected program

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and open Task Manager.
  2. Select the affected program from the list.cannot open any more databases 1
  3. Click the End process button at the bottom of the window.end process

This method gives you some extra information about this error. Notably, when you close programs one by one, you will see the cannot open any more databases error 3048 message appear for the program that is affected by this bug.

So, this method lets you identify the affected program. You can then proceed with the other solutions listed below as it has now narrowed down the problem.

2. Re-install affected program

  1. Open the Start menu from the Taskbar below.
  2. Search for Control Panel and open it.control panel
  3. Select Programs and Features.programs and features
  4. From the application manager, select the affected program.
  5. Hit the Uninstall button.

A faulty installation could also be the reason behind this being unable to open any more databases error 3048 with Microsoft Office. In such a case, you can follow the above steps to completely uninstall the product from your PC.

After the process is complete, re-install Microsoft Office on your PC, Make sure there are no interruptions while the installation process is going on, and check if this fixes the issue or not.

3. Perform a virus scan

  1. Click on the upward arrow button on the bottom-right taskbar.see all apps
  2. Select Windows Security.windows security
  3. Click on Virus & threat protection.virus and threat protection steam error e502 l3
  4. HIt the Quick Scan button and let Windows Security scan your PC for virus and malware.quick scan
  5. You can also select the Scan options button.scan options
  6. Under Scan Options, you can also choose Full scan to deeply scan your PC for virus or malware.full scan

While we don’t have any third-party antivirus applications installed on our PC, we made use of the Windows Security Defender.

But the above steps would give you an idea that you need to perform a scan to check for any viruses or malware.

4. Clear system junk files

  1. Click the Start menu.
  2. Search for Command Prompt and open it as an administrator.cmd admin
  3. Type in cleanmgr and hit Enter.
  4. Select the drive from where you wish to clean the junk files. Preferrably select the drive where you have installed Microsoft Office.cleanmgr
  5. Disk Cleanup will now begin calculating the amount of storage space you can reclaim.disk cleanup check
  6. Check the boxes of the categories you want to clear, and hit OK.

Over time, your PC accumulates several temporary files from various apps and games that you install. These files may have become redundant as you may have uninstalled much of that software.

So, one of the best ways to clean out junk files from your PC is to make use of the Disk Cleanup tool, which comes in-built with the Windows OS.

Most likely, these temporary or junk files are corrupt and conflict with Microsoft Office, resulting in the error. Check if this resolves your issue or not.

5. Revert back to an old build

  1. Download the Office Deployment Tool and install it on your PC.
  2. You will see three configuration files along with a setup.exe file.
  3. According your PC configuration right-click on the appropriate configuration file and select Edit. Notably, for 64-bit OS select configuration-Office365-x64.xml, and for 32-bit OS, choose configuration-Office365-x86.xml.configuration files
  4. Select Notepad to edit the file.
  5. As far as what changes you need to do, visit this official Microsoft website to decide a previous version you wish to revert back to.office version history
  6. Now edit as shown in the image below:edit microsoft office version
  7. You can change the Channel from Monthly to Broad for Semi-Annual Channel or Targeted for Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted). Additionaly, change the Version to the appropriate previous version.
  8. Once that is done, save changes and close the file.
  9. Again open Command Prompt and run it as an administrator.cmd admin
  10. Switch from the default C:\WINDOWS\system32 and enter the below command to the ODT folder in desktop.cd C:\Users\hugol2\Desktop\ODT
    Do note that hugol2 is the username of the PC showing this procedure. You need to change it as per your PC’s username.
  11. Enter the below command line to download the Office 365 package. setup.exe /download configuration-Office365-x64.xmlsetup office
  12. A new folder will appear inside the ODT folder.new office folder old version
  13. After the office installation package is downloaded, you can now uninstall the Microsoft Office 365 from your PC.
  14. Now, to install the previous version of Office 365, open Command Prompt and run it as an administrator.cmd admin
  15. Switch from the default C:\WINDOWS\system32 and enter the below command to the ODT folder in desktop.cd C:\Users\hugol2\Desktop\ODT
    Do note that hugol2 is the username of the PC showing this procedure. You need to change it as per your PC’s username.
  16. Type the below command and press Enter. setup.exe /download configuration-Office365-x64.xmlsetup office

This will install the previous version of the Microsoft Office 365 you desired and possibly eliminate the error as well.

6. Set up Trusted Location

  1. Open the Microsoft Office app with which you are facing the cannot open any more databases error.
  2. Click on the File menu option.office file menu
  3. Hit Options.options
  4. Select Trust Center from the left side pane.trust center
  5. Choose Trust Center Settings.trust center settings
  6. Click on Trusted Locations from the left pane.trusted locations
  7. Select Add new location.add new trusted location
  8. Add a new trusted location and hit OK.
  9. Save the changes and exit.

For several users, adding a new trusted location has fixed the cannot connect any more databases error 3048 on Microsoft Office.

7. Run a SFC Scan

  1. Click the Start menu.
  2. Search for Command Prompt and open it as an administrator.cmd admin
  3. Type the below command and hit Enter.sfc /scanowsfc-scannow
  4. You PC will start scanning for error code 3048 and in the process, will try to fix the issue as well.

8. Run Check Disk utility

  1. Click the Start menu.
  2. Search for Command Prompt and open it as an administrator.cmd admin
  3. Type the below command and press Enter.chkdsk /fchkdsk command

If the check disk utility says that it cannot run because the volume is being used by another process, you can simply type in Y to schedule a scan, next time the system restarts.

9. Reinstall Runtime Libraries

  1. Open the Start menu from the Taskbar below.
  2. Search for Control Panel and open it.control panel
  3. Select Programs and Features.programs and features
  4. Uninstall all Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package applications one by one.uninstall visual packages
  5. Visit the official website and download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable Package then install it.

What has Microsoft done about this issue?

  1. Open the problematic Microsoft Office app.
  2. Click on the File menu option.office file menu
  3. Select Accounts from the left menu.microsoft office account
  4. Under Product Information, click on Update Options button.office update options
  5. From the drop-down menu, select Update Now.install new update
  6. If a new update is available, follow the onscreen process to install it.

Since this issue was reported extensively very recently, Microsoft released a new update on February 8, 2022. The new update arrives with build number 14827.20192.

According to Microsoft, the update includes a fix for the problem of being unable to open any more databases error 3048.

There are chances that the update hasn’t downloaded and installed automatically for you. So in such a case, you need to manually check for the update, and if available, download and install it by yourself.

We hope that this guide helped you fix the “can not open any more databases error 3048” in Microsoft Office.

Let us know in the comments below which methods did the job for you. If you have any other solutions to this problem, you can share them as well.

Sea of Thieves Season Six set for release on March 10

In January, Microsoft’s Sea of Thieves video game had indicated that it had big plans for 2022. Later on, in February, we saw the pirate-themed video game release its first action-packed adventure dubbed Shrouded Islands.

Then on March 5, through their official Twitter account, Sea of Thieves made it known to their fans that Season Six was going to be launched officially on March 10.

As spotted by the folks at Pure Xbox, Rare provided a detailed account of what gamers should expect of the sixth season. “The headline addition to Sea Of Thieves’ sixth season is Sea Forts, a new type of ‘mini raid’ intended for single teams. ” It will also come with emporium content, three new adventures, a new plunder pass, as well as a new mystery.

Sea of Thieves released a video on their YouTube channel, on March 7, a few days before the official launch, which walks you through the game in terms of the adventures and improvements expect upon release.

Are you a Sea of Thieves player? What do you think of Season 6? Let us know in the comments below.

13 new games coming this week on Xbox

A total of 13 games are set to be released on Xbox Consoles this week. While none of them are blockbuster, triple A titles, there is a good lineup here, with something to suite just about any type of gamer. Let’s have a look.

Things start out a little slow for the week, with only two games lined up for the first half, those being Dawn of the Monsters on Tuesday and Splash Cars on Wednesday.

Things really ramp up on Thursday, though, with 9 games releasing on the 10th. Here’s the list.

Aztech Forgotten Gods

Dungeon Color

Hotel Transylvania: Scary-Tale Adventures

The Last Cube

Radioactive Dwarfs: Evil from the Sewers

Retro Pixel Racers

RPG Time: The Legend of Wright

Submerged: Hidden Depths

Time Loader

The week in Xbox releases closes out with two more titles coming on Friday: WWE 2K22 and Cosmos Bit.

In all it looks like another good week for Xbox owners, as these games are playable on either the Xbox One or the Series X/S. And there is a good variety here, too, with everything from sports sims to role playing games to retro-inspired indie side-scrollers.

 

Microsoft announces its fourth datacenter region in India; the largest one yet

In a press event at the Microsoft India Development Center in Hyderabad today, Microsoft announced its intent to establish its latest datacenter region in India. The Hyderabad datacenter region will be an addition to the existing network of three regions in India across Pune, Mumbai, and Chennai. It will offer the entire Microsoft portfolio across the cloud, data solutions, AI, productivity tools, and customer relationship management (CRM).

There’s no definite timeline for the datacenter to be operational, but at the launch, Anant Maheshwari, President of Microsoft India, shared that it typically takes 24 months to setup a datacenter region. Across India, the demand for cloud as a platform for digital transformation, driving economic growth and societal progress, is increasing. The new datacenter region in Hyderabad will play an important role in meeting India’s burgeoning cloud requirements.

Microsoft has a long history with Hyderabad (and the state of Telangana) which hosts the company’s largest development center outside of the Redmond headquarters. This will also be one of the largest foreign direct investments (FDIs) the state has attracted. Microsoft is also partnering closely with the government of Telangana to accelerate the adoption of cloud, AI, IoT and cybersecurity solutions for governance with a variety of skilling programs.

Microsoft India
From left to right: Rajiv Kumar (Managing Director, Microsoft IDC), Anant Maheshwari (President, Microsoft India), and Rajiv Sodhi (Chief Operating Officer, Microsoft India)

According to IDC, Microsoft datacenter regions in India contributed $9.5B revenue to the economy between 2016 and 2020. Beyond GDP impact, the IDC report estimated 1.5 million jobs were added to the economy, including 169,000 new skilled IT jobs.

The new datacenter region will be built with sustainable design and operations in mind, enabling Microsoft to responsibly deliver cloud services at scale. The company has already committed to have a 100 percent renewable energy supply equivalent to the electricity consumed by Microsoft datacenters by 2025.

StartAllBack for Windows 10 & 11: How to Download & Use

If you want to get back the customization options Windows 10 had, you should download and install StartAllBack. Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through all the steps to set it up perfectly.

How do I get and use StartAllBack?

1. Download and install it

  1. Open the StartAllBack webpage.
  2. In the page, scroll down and click the Download button with the latest version of StartAllBack.
  3. Click Save File in the new window that appears.
  4. Locate the file’s location and double-click it to begin installation. Then select Install For Me.
  5. Next, a window will asking you if you want to stick with Windows 11 look or switch to a Windows 7 or Windows 10 appearance.
  6. As an example, this guide will choose the Windows 10 option.
  7. As you can see from the taskbar, the style has changed to look similar to Windows 10.
  8. To change the layout, right-click the Start menu and select Properties.
  9. StartAllBack appears and you can continue customizing.

In case you’re wondering, StartAllBack is safe to use, and it doesn’t come with any hidden malawre.

2. Customize the settings

  1. The settings options for StartAllBack appears in the left hand menu.
  2. The Start Menu allows you to customize the Start menu.
  3. You change the visual with the drop-down menu at the top. You can change it to match Windows 7, 8, or the default.
  4. You can also change how big the icon should be, what is displayed on the right, and what is highlighted.
  5. After configuring the settings, click the Start menu to see how it looks like.
  6. Taskbar, as the name suggest, allows you to change the taskbar.
  7. You change the Start menu icon, where the taskbar sits, and how big the icons should be.
  8. Customize the settings however you like.
  9. Explorer customizes the File Explorer.
  10. Options include three different styles, context menus, and a details pane.
  11. The File Explorer options are admittedly a little difficult to gage.
  12. Advanced allows you to change the color of the Start menu and taskbar.
  13. It also includes options on how to store and display recently opened files.
  14. Once done, the Start menu and taskbar look very different.
  15. About doesn’t offer any customization options other than giving the opportunity to purchase the full version and tell you how long you have in the free trial.

3. Create a new Start menu

  1. To create your own Start menu, begin by selecting what style and how many icons you want.
  2. For example, the Start menu will be in a Windows 7 style with 20 small icons.
  3. You can allow what the Search function finds under Search and have the menu highlight new apps.
  4. Under Right Side Items, you can select which apps and feature appear in the Start menu. Selecting Link adds them to the left side and Menu adds them to the right side.
  5. Open your Start menu and see how it all looks.

4. Create a new taskbar

  1. Say for example, you want a segmented taskbar that sits at the top with its icons centered in a Windows 7 style with large icons.
  2. In the Taskbar section, go to the Tweak behavior and superpowers section.
  3. Make the changes you want like having the taskbar sit at the top segmented with dynamic transparency.
  4. Underneath Choose Taskbar style, select the changes you want like the visual style, icon size, and margins.
  5. Once done, the changes will appear immediatedly.

How can I get rid of StartAllBack?

You have two options when it comes to removing StartAllBack and getting back to the original version of Windows 11:

  • Disabling the app – the quickest method from the two, and it also allows you to activate it with ease at any point in time if your choose to do so
  • Uninstalling the app – this process can take a bit more time, and the process of re-installing the app again will also take extra time.

If you’re not sure which of these options suits you best, think about it like this: If you’re still undecided if you will want to use the app in the future, disable it, and then enable it whenever you need to.

In case you don’t plan on using the app anymore, simply uninstall it and remove the app entirely from your hard drive.

Below, you will find both of these methods described in a step-by-step fashion:

➡ Disable the app

  1. Go to the Advanced tab on StartAllBack.
  2. At the bottom of the window will be a box with text that reads Disable program for current user. Click it.
  3. Next, open the Start menu and click the arrow next to Shut down.
  4. Select Sign out.
  5. Sign back in to your Windows 11 computer.
  6. You will find that all the changes you made have now been disabled.

To learn more, we also have an in-depth guide on how to disable StartAllBack, so don’t miss it.

➡ Re-enable the app

  1. To enable StartAllBack again, go to the Control Panel.
  2. Click StartAllBar and the app will open again.
  3. If StartAllBar isn’t in the Control Panel, open the file explorer.
  4. In the address bar, type in C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\StartAllBack\StartAllBackCfg.exe. Where it says USERNAME, type the name of your own.
  5. StartAllBack will appear. Return to Advanced and deselect the Disable option at the bottom.
  6. Sign out and back in again. The changes you made previously are now back.
  7. Conversely, you can uninstall StartAllBack.

➡ Uninstall the app entirely

  1. Start by opening the Settings menu.
  2. Select Apps on the left hand side.
  3. Click Apps & features.
  4. Locate StartAllBack in the Apps list.
  5. Click the three dots on the right and select Uninstall.

If you want to avoid going through all these steps to uninstall software and want to ensure that all pieces of any software are removed from your device, we recommend that you use a specialized software uninstaller like CCleaner.

What is the StartAllBack feature?

StartAllBack is a user interface app that intends to “fix” everything that’s wrong with the Windows 11 user interface. It does this by giving people the option to revert things to a Windows 10 style, or even a Windows 7 style for those who miss the old interface.

And it doesn’t stop there as there are a lot of customization options on StartAllBack. You can even make the user interface look like something straight out of a Chromebook.

Other customization options include an improved File Explorer, Control Panel, the ability to move the taskbar to the top of the screen, new menus, new fonts, fast search, and so much more. There’s something it for everyone.

Now, this isn’t a free app that you can download. You do have to purchase a license to get yourself a copy, and there are even Business versions for purchase that allow you to change up to 400 different PCs.

Fortunately, StartAllBack is cheap and there is a free trial available if you want to try out the app.

This guide will show you how to download the free trial of StartAllBack and take you through some of the key features available on that particular version, so you can decide for yourself if you want the full version. The guide will also show how to access the settings and how to uninstall them.

Are there other ways that I can customize my Windows 11 computer?

There are a lot of different ways to customize your machine. For example, you can customize what your Function Keys do thanks to an app called Microsoft PowerToys. After opening the app, you go to the Keyboard option, select which Function Key you want to change, and type in the command. Although, you can’t add CTRL+ALT+DEL to the app.

It’s also recommended that you purchase yourself a remote control software for your computer. It’s a useful app that gives you the ability to control another computer and certain aspects of it from anywhere, so long as the main computer has access to the host.

As for the future, a leak on Twitter has revealed that Windows 11 desktop stickers are making their way to the system. They’re stickers that allow you to pick and place decorative images of cute animals over your desktop. Nothing crazy or life-changing, but it’s certainly a cute way to change your computer’s look.

Summary

Why did Microsoft undo Windows 10’s user interface? People liked that version. It does appear that Microsoft took inspiration from macOS when it was developing Windows 11 and got rid of a lot of the customization options people expect to have.

The changes made to the Start menu, right-click context menu, taskbar, and others have rubbed people the wrong way. People started to raise the question of why fix what wasn’t broken.

If you’re looking to install StartAllBack on ARM version of Windows, you’ll be pleased to hear that the software is fully compatible with it. Moreover, if you’d like to look into viable alternatives, we’ve got you covered.

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

Fix: YouTube Kids Is Not Available In Your Country Error

There are a few ways to get around the YouTube Kids is not available in your region error. Whether you are outside of the supported areas or there’s a geolocation error, the steps below will help you access it.

How can I fix the Sorry, YouTube Kids isn’t available in your country error?

1. Use VPN

  1. To begin, go to the PIA VPN website to create an account and purchase a subscription.PIA VPN website
  2. Choose your preferred plan on the following page.
  3. Fill up your payment information and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase and create an account.
  4. After that, launch Chrome, then select the three-dot icon in the top-right corner of the window.Go to chrome Settings
  5. Then, with your mouse hovered over More Tools, click Extensions.Go to Extensions in Chrome
  6. Click the humberger menu in the top left corner of the window, then select Open Chrome Web Store at the bottom left.Open Chrome Web Store
  7. Then, in the search box, type PIA VPN and hit Enter.Search for PIA VPN in Extensions
  8. Click on Private Internet Access from the search results.Private Internet Access
  9. Following that, select Add to Chrome on the next page.Adding PIA VPN to chrome
  10. You’ll get a message asking if you want to add “Private Internet Access”? To add it to Chrome, select Yes and wait a few seconds.PIA VPN added to chrome extension
  11. The PIA icon can now be found in the Chrome extensions section. If you don’t see it, click the puzzle icon and select the pin next to the PIA extension to add it to the bar.Pinning extension to extention bar
  12. Click on PIA VPN, then enter your credentials.Enter PIA VPN credentials
  13. Once you’ve signed in, select a country where YT Kids is available, then refresh the YouTube Kids website and enjoy the vids.

You can mask your location and trick the YouTube Kids into believing you’re from somewhere other than where you are by using VPN. PIA has a huge server base, covering all YouTube Kids countries.

Plus, it’s super fast and works seamlessly on YouTube, without being detected.

2. Clear the Cache

  1. Click on the three-dot on the top right corner of the Chrome browser. Go to chrome Settings
  2. Hover your mouse over History and choose History from the list that appears.Go to Chrome History
  3. On the left side of the browser, select Clear browsing data.Clear Browsing data on chrome
  4. Change the time range to All time from the menu that opens, then select the Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files check boxes. Clearing browser cache image and files
  5. Following that, click on Clear data.Confirm clearing cache

Check to see if the Error YouTube Kids Is Not Available In Your Country has been resolved. If not, move on to the next solution.

It’s not uncommon for adblockers and privacy extensions to interfere with YouTube’s scripts. Follow the instructions below to disable browser extensions.

3. Disable Browser Extensions

  1. If you’re using Chrome, click the three-dot menu in the upper right corner of the browser.Go to chrome Settings
  2. Then, by hovering your mouse over More Tools, select Extensions.Go to Extensions in Chrome
  3. You’ll now see a list of the extensions installed on your browser. Toggle the slider under each extension off to disable them.Disabling Extensions
  4. After you’ve disabled all of the extensions, visit YouTube Kids and check to see if it’s working properly.

4. Check your internet connection

Unplug your router’s power cable and wait for two minutes. Then plug the power cord back in, power up your router, and check the results. If you don’t have enough bandwidth, switch to a cable connection and disconnect all the other devices using the connection.

Enable Airplane mode for a few seconds and then re-enable it if you’re using cellular data. Alternatively, switch to a Wi-Fi connection and check if YouTube Kids videos are playing now.

5. Create a new Apple ID (iOS users)

  1. If you have a Mac, go to the Apple menu, select Sign in, and then Create New Apple ID; if you have a Windows PC, open iTunes and select Accounts, then Sign In.Select a country that is supported by YouTube Kids to bypass YouTube Kids Is Not Available In Your Country
  2. Fill in all the required fields and select a new country, where YouTube Kids is available then click on Continue.Fill in the required fields to create new Apple ID
  3. Next, you’ll get an email with a verification code. Enter the code on your device to complete the account creation procedure.
  4. Now, on your iPhone, go to the App Store.Go to App store
  5. Click on the human icon which you will find at the top right corner of the page.Human icon in app store
  6. Then scroll down to Sign Out option and tap on it.Signing out of Apple ID
  7. After you’ve entered your new Apple ID account credentials in the Username and Password fields, touch Sign In, and then Done.
  8. Next, in the Apple Store’s bottom right corner, hit the magnifier icon, and then type YouTube Kids into the search field.Tap on Magnifier  icon and search for YT Kids
  9. Tap the Get button next to the YouTube Kids app.
  10. Now a pop-up will open, tap Install, then you’ll be prompted to sign in with your Apple ID. Don’t forget to use your new Apple ID account to sign in.
  11. After signing in with your new credentials, you’ll be required to enter details about account billing information to complete the process.
  12. Open the app and have fun with it. Launch YT Kids
Note icon NOTE
To create an Apple ID, you must provide a valid payment method. In addition, if you want to access YouTube Kids, you’ll need to use a VPN to hide your current location if it’s not one of the supported countries.

Now check to see if the Sorry Youtube Kids isn’t available in this country yet error on your iOS device has been fixed. If not, move on to the next step.

6. Update the App (iOS & Android)

iOS:

  1. Go to App Store.Go to App store
  2. After that, tap on magnifier icon and type YouTube Kids into the search box.Tap on Magnifier icon and search for YT Kids
  3. Select the Update option next to the YouTube Kids app.Updating YouTube Kids

Android:

  1. Open Google Play Store.
  2. Search for YouTubee Kids and open the app.
  3. If you have an update button next to it, tap it and wait for the process to complete. If you don’t it means the app is up to date.update yt kids android

YouTube kids is a good app if you want your kids to watch age-appropriate content, without the like/comment focus of standard YouTube. You can create profiles based on age groups (Preschool: 4 and under, Younger: 5-8, Older: 9-12) to filter content.

The parental control software can also be installed on a computer or phone.

With a reliable VPN you can watch YouTube Kids even if it’s not available in your country. Remember, while they bypass geo locks, using VPNs can limit some of the other functions in your device, so make sure to turn the VPN off when you are done.

Microsoft news recap: product sales suspended in Russia, Microsoft Flight Simulator joins Xbox Cloud Gaming, and more

Microsoft news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!

2.3 million Xbox consoles have been sold in Japan all time, according to new report

According to a new report, 2.3 million Xbox consoles have been sold in Japan, with the majority of those sales being during the Xbox 360 era, though it looks like the Xbox Series X|S is off to a good start. The breakdown of reported sales figures by console is as follows:

  • Xbox – 472,992
  • Xbox 360 – 1,616,128
  • Xbox One – 114,831
  • Xbox Series X/S – 142,024

Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X video game consoles.

Microsoft has suspended new sales in Russia in response to attack on Ukraine

As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, Microsoft has announced that it has suspended all new sales of its products in Russia.

Microsoft has suspended new sales in Russia in response to attack on Ukraine - OnMSFT.com - March 4, 2022

It will soon be easier to switch between multiple accounts in Microsoft 365 online apps

Using multiple accounts in Microsoft 365 web apps can be tedious, as they only support being logged into one account at a time, whereas Google allows multiple accounts and easy switching between them within each app. But that might be about to change, as Microsoft is now working on account switching within Microsoft 365 web apps.

Microsoft 365 Banner

Microsoft Flight Simulator comes to Xbox Cloud Gaming

If the thought of having to download Microsoft Flight Simulator gives you nightmares of the amount of storage required, fear not, as the game has now arrived on Xbox Cloud Gaming. This allows gamers to stream the game via the cloud, removing the need for a large download and storage space. It also means the game is available on any device in which you can access Xbox Cloud Gaming, including mobile.

Microsoft Flight Simulator on Xbox Series X

That’s it for this week. We will be back next week with more Microsoft news.

Will Upgrading to Windows 11 Delete my Files?

Concerns have been raised about the Windows 11 upgrade, namely whether or not data, directories, and applications would be deleted following the installation.

Therefore, here comes the answer to the question of whether upgrading to Windows 11 will delete my files and programs.

Firstly, remember that nothing is forcing you to update from your current Windows 10 operating system. But if your computer fulfills the system requirements, you will be able to do so for free.

It is crucial to know that while upgrading the operating system to a clean installation, some differences should not be missed.

It’s important to look upon all aspects when installing the Windows 11 OS, to check on requirements and have a clear understanding of how to do it.

Meanwhile, if you are running a Windows 10 PC, it will be fully supported until October 2025, so there is no rush in doing the changes.

Do I have to reinstall software and apps after installing Windows 11?

If you upgraded through an update, every app and software from before the update will remain as if you never touched it. Thus, upgrading to Windows 11 files and other data won’t be deleted if you do it correctly.

Consider the upgrade to be a typical Windows feature update. Everything will be back to normal when you restart, however some things may be different. In the new Windows 11 OS, you will find some features missing.

You may opt-in to maintain your files and apps when upgrading to Windows 11, so you won’t lose any data.

Those features that will not be found in Windows 11 are as follows:

  • Math Input Panel Desktop Wallpaper News & Interests
  • Quick Update
  • Keyboard with Touch
  • The Tablet Mode
  • Wallet

Of course, missing features will be replaced by other great functionalities and user interfaces that awe and are straightforward to understand.

So, no, if you upgrade properly and correctly, everything should be back to where it was before the upgrade. However, we recommend that you back up all of your important files before any changes.

When installing a new version of the system, you may wonder how to backup Windows 11 without data loss, and we understand that can be quite troublesome but we got you covered.

How do I backup my files and folders before setting up Windows 11?

At the very least, you should have a local backup of any critical data files. Keeping the majority of your data files in a secure cloud-based service adds an extra layer of security and saves you lots of work.

You may start a manual backup for all your important data following these steps:

  1. Go to Search in the taskbar and type in Control Panel.
  2. Click on System and Security. System and security
  3. Select the drive or network you want to make the backup on, then turn on File History.

Manually backup files may result in spending a lot of thinking about doing it right or wrong. Even if the system helps you with the steps, there may also be something missed during the backup process.

If you are unsure about which Cloud service you can rely on, we recommend EaseUS Todo Backup. It is free to download, you can take advantage of using the utility and save time with the process.

  • Backup and restoring software.
  • Back up your system, file, disk, partition.

When something goes wrong, you may also restore lost files, data, or anything else that is valuable to you.

In case you lose data when updating your operating system, you may recover it with EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, which is also free of charge. This all-in-one file recovery software simplifies and accelerates data recovery.

There may be some other related problems when installing Windows 11, therefore you may find helpful some tips and workarounds that will help you further in the process.

Last but not least, we have a handful of Windows 11 TPM workarounds to go around the restrictions and install the OS without issues on your device.

Hopefully, this clears your concerns regarding the upgrade to Windows 11, and if you have any other questions, be sure to check our website for more information.

Did you upgrade to Windows 11 and interfered with other issues? Leave a comment in the area below and tell us about your experience.

How to Fix Xbox Series X Frame Rate Issues

Are you experiencing frame rate issues with your Xbox Series X and looking for solutions to fix it? If so, then you are in the right place.

Because in this guide, we will share a curated list of solutions that would help you to troubleshoot the Xbox Series x frame rate issues and also possibly help you fix them.

Microsoft introduced the Xbox Series X back in 2019. Though it came out way later than the Sony PlayStation 4, the graphics and performance were neck-to-neck with the latter.

Even after launching in 2013, many preferred the Sony PlayStation 4 for the crisp graphics. We won’t get into that debate since it is a matter of personal choice.

Notably, we are here to resolve the Xbox Series X frame rate issues that several users are experiencing across the globe.

The best part about the Xbox Series X frame rate issue is that it can be improved by applying a few fixes that we have mentioned in this guide.

Moreover, we will share some tips that will help you get a performance boost and hopefully increase the frame rate on your Xbox Series X console.

Let us dive into this guide, where we have discussed multiple solutions to help you fix Xbox Series X frame rate issues.

What can I do to get 120 fps on Xbox Series X console?

  1. Press the Xbox button on your Xbox controller to open System guide.
  2. Select Settings.xbox-settings
  3. Choose General.xbox general
  4. Select TV & display options.xbox series x tv and display
  5. Under Refresh rate options select 120Hz.select 120hz

Gaming consoles have gotten better and better over the years. The same is the case with the Xbox Series X console. Along with 4K gaming, you can also enjoy supported games to up to 120 framerate per second (fps).

To enjoy your games at 120fps, you need to enable the 120Hz option under the Refresh rate settings of your Xbox series X console.

Do note that you can enjoy 120fps gameplay only if your TV or monitor allows for 120fps gaming. Additionally, you would also need a TV with HDMI 2.0 or 2.1 port.

With HDMI 2.0, you can play your games at a maximum resolution of 1440p @120fps. On the other hand, if you plug in your console to HDMI 2.1 port, then you can enjoy 4K gaming up to 120fps.

To know about all the games that support 120fps gaming on Xbox Series X, you can visit the official Xbox website, which is regularly updated.

What are the steps to enable FPS boost or increase FPS on Xbox Series X?

  1. Power on your Xbox Series X console.
  2. Press the Xbox button on your controller.
  3. Select an FPS boost compatible game from the list.xbox select a fps boost game
  4. Press the Start button on your Xbox controller.
  5. Choose Manage Game and Add-Ons.xbox manage games
  6. Select Compatibility Options.xbox series x compatibility options
  7. Check the box next to FPS Boost to enable it.enable fps boost
  8. Head back to the main screen.
  9. You can perform the same steps for other compatible games as well.

Microsoft introduced the FPS Boost feature with the Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. This feature was designed to improve the performance across several gaming titles.

A certain game may be locked to be played at 30fps on the Xbox One console. However, after enabling, the FPS Boost feature unbinds the game to run at 60fps on the Xbox Series X console.

Higher framerate gives you a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. Do note that enabling FPS Boost will also take more juice out of your system.

Also, note that if the FPS boost is greyed out on your Xbox Series X, then the game you are playing doesn’t support this feature.

What are the steps to check FPS on Xbox Series X?

  1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open System menu.
  2. Click on Settings.xbox-settings
  3. Select General.xbox general
  4. Hit the TV & display options.xbox series x tv and display
  5. Now, under Setup select 4K TV details.xbox tv and display options settings
  6. Here, you will see all the details about your TV and all the features that it supports. tv details

If your TV supports 120Hz fps then, it will show a tick mark next to the details.

As far as checking fps for games on Xbox Series X is concerned, there isn’t a native way to do it. There are games that provide the option to view FPS, but that is an in-game setting.

Now let us check out the list of solutions that will help you fix Xbox Series X frame rate issues.

How can I fix Xbox Series X frame rate issues?

1. Force stop and re-open the game

  1. Press the Xbox button on your controller.
  2. Select the game with which you are experiencing frame rate issues.xbox select a fps boost game
  3. Hit the Menu button.
  4. Select Quit and press A to close it.xbox quite game
  5. Open the game once again and see if this fixes the issue or not.

There are chances that you are facing Xbox Series X frame rate issues because of a minor issue that has recently popped up for that particular game.

In such a case, it is advised that you follow the above steps to force close the game and re-open the game, and check if this fixes the Xbox Series X frame rate issue or not.

2. Restart your Xbox

  1. Press and hold the Xbox button on your controller.
  2. Select the Restart console option.xbox restart console
  3. Press A button on your controller to confirm the action.

Many underestimate the power of a simple restart. If you are facing any issues with an app or a technology device, the first thing you should do before trying anything exquisite to fix the problem is to restart or power off your device.

The same is in the case with the Xbox Series X frame rate issue. There are chances that some important system files didn’t load during the previous session. If that is the case, then it will not only cause frame rate issues but other problems such as stutters, or game lag.

Perform a simple restart and see if this fixes the Xbox Series X frame rate issues or not. Restarting your console using this method could also help you clear the cache on Xbox Series X; read this guide to learn more.

3. Select a different graphics setting

  1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open System guide.
  2. Click on Settings.xbox-settings
  3. Select General.xbox general
  4. Hit the TV & display options.xbox series x tv and display

Under TV & display options, you need to tweak your graphics settings, preferably to lower settings if you are facing series frame rate issues.

Chances are the game that you are playing a game that is not properly optimized to be played in the graphics settings that you currently have.

So, we would advise you to dial down the graphics settings a bit and adjust them accordingly for optimum output.

4. Ensure sufficient storage space

  1. Press the Xbox button on your controller.
  2. Select Settings under the System menu.call of duty cold war not updating on xbox settings
  3. Head to System.Settings call of duty cold war not updating on xbox
  4. Under the System tab, choose Storage.xbox storage
  5. You will see the amount of storage space currently used or left in your Xbox Series X console.storage space xbox

If there isn’t sufficient storage space, then also your Xbox Series X console would misbehave and show up problems such as Xbox Series X frame rate issues.

To fix this, follow the steps mentioned in the next solution, to delete the games that you do not play to clear some storage space.

5. Clear storage space

  1. Navigate to the Homescreen.
  2. Press the Xbox button.
  3. Select My Games & Apps.
  4. Highlight the game that you wish to uninstall.
  5. Press Menu button.
  6. Choose Manage Game option from the pop-up menu.
  7. Select Uninstall.

Your Xbox needs to have some clear storage space to run everything perfectly and smoothly. There are chances that because of the loaded storage space in your console, the Xbox Series X isn’t giving optimal performance. Hence, the frame rate issues.

In such a case, it is time for you to uninstall the games that you do not play that often. Following the above-mentioned steps, you will be able to uninstall the unwanted games and free up storage space in your console in the process.

6. Clear system cache

  1. Press the Xbox logo on your Xbox Series X to turn it off.
  2. Unplug the power cable from your Xbox.
  3. Wait for about 10-20 seconds.
  4. Plug the power cable back into your Xbox Series X and power it on.

Your Xbox console stores game data in the form of cache files. These files help the console run the games smoothly, with no hiccups.

But this game data could pile up and take a huge amount of storage in your console. Besides, if it gets corrupted, it can cause issues such as Xbox Series X frame rate issues. Therefore, we advise you to perform this power cycle to clear the system cache.

7. Check your TV

There are strong possibilities that the Xbox Series X frame rate issues that you might be experiencing do not involve your console at all.

The problem could be with your TV or monitor itself. It is recommended that you try out connecting your console to a different TV or monitor and check if the frame rate issue remains.

8. Try with other games

As already mentioned, all games are not properly optimized to run as smoothly as you may find some popular titles. We would suggest you check and play other games as well and see if the issue still exists or not.

If other games play without any frame rate issue, then it could be the problem with that particular game. In such a scenario, you should wait for a new update of the game that would possibly fix the bug that is causing the issue.

9. Keep your Xbox Series X cool

Just like any other gaming console or a gaming laptop, Xbox Series X’s fans keep the device cool when you are killing your enemies in the game.

A hot console is a reason behind poor performance, stutter, lag, and frame drop issues. Therefore, to fix this, make sure to free up the area around your Xbox Series X console.

Also, check if the cooling wents aren’t blocked by anything, and give your console a break in between your gaming session to cool down.

What can I do to fix low FPS issue in different games?

Some users have reported specific game titles that they are experiencing low FPS issues with. Notably, users have reported this low fps problem with COD: Cold War, GTA V, Minecraft, Dishonored 2, etc.

Since players of all these popular titles are suffering from the same issue of low fps, the above-listed solutions would help you fix the problem.

Particularly, you can try enabling FPS Boost feature, clearing storage space, or selecting a different graphic setting.

If nothing works for you, then you can try hard resetting your Xbox Series X console. Simply press the Power button for about 8 seconds until it turns off.

Unplug the cable from your console and wait 2-3 minutes before plugging it back in. The solution to hard reset the Xbox console has also helped users fix motion blur issues as well.

Let us know in the comments below if you could fix the Xbox Series X frame rate issues using the solutions mentioned above or not. You can also drop a comment letting us know which method helped you.

Io.Netty.Channel.Abstractchannel [Minecraft]: Fix & Meaning

Some Minecraft players have posted on the game’s support forum about an io.netty channel error that arises when they try to connect with server. The io.nett error message states:

Failed to connect to server. io.netty.channel.AbstractChannel $AnnotatedConnectException: Connection timed out.

When that issue arises, Minecraft can’t connect with the server.

Why am I getting io.netty.channel.abstractchannel$annotatedconnectexception no further information error? There are many reasons for issues in Minecraft, and if you want to learn more, we suggest reading our common Minecraft errors guide for further information.

Keep in mind that this is a fatal Minecraft error, and it will cause your game to crash, so it’s important to know how to fix it properly.

In some cases, you’ll encounter a Minecraft error code 5, but this issue can be resolved by gaining administrative privileges.

How do I fix the Io.netty.channel.AbstractChannel error?

1. Reset Router

Reset button Io netty channel abstractchannel AnnotatedConnectException: Connection timed out fix

Resetting the router is a more straightforward resolution that might fix the io.netty channel error for some players. You can do that by turning the router off and unplugging it. Then plug the router back in and turn it on after a few minutes.

Some users have also confirmed that factory resetting their routers fixed the issue for them. To factory reset a router, press and hold its reset button down for 10-30 seconds.

A paperclip will usually be required to press a router’s reset button. Note that resetting a router in that way also erases all custom settings for it.

2. Check the firewall’s app permissions

  1. The io.netty.channel error is often due to the Windows Defender Firewall blocking Minecraft’s server connection.
    • To fix that, press the Windows key + S hotkey.
  2. Next, enter firewall as the search keyword in the text box.
  3. Click Windows DefenderFirewall to open the Control Panel as in the shot directly below.
    Windows Defender Firewall applet Io netty channel abstractchannel AnnotatedConnectException: Connection timed out fix
  4. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall to open the firewall’s app settings.
  5. Click Change settings to configure the firewall options.
  6. Then select all the Public and Private check boxes for Java (TM) Platform SE binary as shown directly below.
    Io nettyThe Allowed app settings channel abstractchannel AnnotatedConnectException: Connection timed out fix
  7. Click the OK option.

Turn off the Windows Defender Firewall

  1. Alternatively, you can turn off Windows Defender Firewall to ensure it can’t block Minecraft’s server connection.
    • Open WDF’s Control Panel applet as outlined for the second resolution.
  2. Click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off on the left side of the Control Panel applet to open further options.
    Io netty Customize Settings window channel abstractchannel AnnotatedConnectException: Connection timed out fix
  3. Click the Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended) settings.
  4. Then press the OK button to confirm settings.

Edit server info before joining server

  1. Try manually entering server address info before connecting with server.
    • First, press the Windows key + R hotkey for Run.
  2. Type cmd in the Open box and press Enter to launch the Command Prompt.
  3. Type ipconfig in the Command Prompt, and press the Return key.
    ipconfig command Io netty channel abstractchannel AnnotatedConnectException: Connection timed out fix
  4. Note down the IPv4 address listed.
  5. Then open File Explorer’s window.
  6. Open this folder path within File Explorer: Minecraft Servers folder > Maxwell (random numbers) > MinecraftServer.
  7. Click the server.properties file to open it in Notepad.
  8. Note down the port number listed within the server.properties files.
  9. Open Minecraft, and select the Play Multiplayer option.
  10. Select a server to join.
  11. Click the Edit button to open server info.
  12. Enter any title of preference in the Server Name box.
  13. In the Address box, enter the IPv4 address and port number with the following format: XXX.XXX.X.X:YYYYY.
    • The X characters there represent the IPv4 address, and the Y characters are for the port number.
  14. Press the Done button.
  15. Select the Refresh option.
  16. Then select the Join Server option.

Those are some of the resolutions Minecraft players have confirmed fix the io.netty.channel error. Some Minecraft players might also need to update their Java to resolve the issue. Check out our download Java post for further details on how to install Java.

If you come across the error occurred during initialization of VM, read this guide to fix it quickly.

For any other questions or suggestions, you can access the comments section below and let us know about them.

Games for Windows Marketplace Install Failed: How to Fix

Games for Windows Live is a popular gaming service for Windows, but it has been reported that it has some problems on Windows 10.

Namely, users report that games that use Games for Windows Live won’t work on Windows 10, and the list of games includes many popular games that were released a few years ago.

These games still have a great number of fans, so you can see why not being able to run them on Windows 10 can be such a problem for avid gamers. Speaking of problems, here’s what our readers reported in connection to GFWL.

Where can this error occur and what does it look like?

So if you’re having issues with Games for Windows Live on Windows 10, you should have a look at our solutions.

How do I fix Games For Windows Live issues on Windows 10?

1. Reinstall Games for Windows Live

  1. Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows Live Redistributable and Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace from your computer. In order to do this, we recommend a dedicated software.
  2. After you’ve uninstalled these applications restart your computer.
  3. Download Games for Windows Live installer.
  4. After you’ve downloaded the installer, right-click it, and choose Properties.
  5. Go to Compatibility tab and check Run this program in compatibility mode for… and choose Windows 7 or Windows 8 from the list.
  6. While you’re in the Compatibility tab make sure that you check Run as administrator.
  7. Save the changes by clicking Apply and OK and install Games for Windows Live.
  8. Everything should work now and your profile should be redownloaded and ready to use.

As mentioned, to uninstall the program in the first place, we suggest using dedicated uninstaller software, for clean removal. This is just to make sure that the process runs completely, without leaving traces in your system, which might cause trouble later on.

A standard uninstall sits in the shadows of a professional uninstall, which removes all residues, including checking for leftovers after the regular uninstall.

Some uninstaller software also has user-friendly interfaces, allowing you to view all installed applications on your PC in a single window. To make things easier, you can locate and remove unwanted apps faster and safer.

2. Install Live Sign-in Assistant

If the previous solution doesn’t work try downloading the latest Live Sign-in Assistant from the official Microsoft page. After downloading and installing Live Sign-in assistant enter your login details and try launching your games.

3. Transfer all xlive files

  1. Go to the following location (if you’re using 32-bit Windows this location might be different): C:WindowsSysWOW64
  2. Find the xlive, xlive.dll, xlive.dll.cat, xlivefnt.dll, xliveinstall.dll, xliveinstallhost.exe files and copy them to C:WindowsSystem32
  3. Try running the game again
  4. If this didn’t work, try copying those files in the installation directory of your game where the game’s .exe file is located.

That’s about it, we hope this article helped you to solve the problem with Games for Windows Live in Windows 10. If you have any comments or questions, just write them down in the comments.

How to fix the Outlook disconnected error on Windows

Microsoft Outlook is a communication manager, used by major organizations across the globe. It can be used as an email client by an individual or be used by an organization to access shared features such as mailbox, calendar, appointments, etc.

Microsoft introduced the Outlook personal information manager back in 1997. There are a lot of features that make Microsoft Outlook the best personal manager available as a part of the Microsoft Office Suite.

For instance, you can schedule emails, create meetings, appointments, tasks, and contacts from a single window. It offers Quick Parts that lets you send similar emails quickly, share calendars, create or assign tasks, and more.

Imagine if such a powerful tool stops working, what would you do? Several users are facing the Outlook disconnected error. This error is an issue regarding the connectivity of Outlook.

This Outlook disconnected error throws up different types of error messages. You may receive a The Microsoft Exchange Administrator has made a change that requires you to quit and restart Outlook. error message, or Trying to connect… error message.

Both error messages have the same underlying connectivity issue. If you are also facing Microsoft Outlook disconnected error, then you are in the right place.

Because in this guide, we will give you a set of curated solutions that will help you resolve the Outlook disconnected error on your PC. With that said, let us jump right in.

Why is Microsoft Outlook disconnected but the internet is working?

There are different types of errors Outlook users face from time to time. One such error that often troubles Outlook users is that, even though the internet is working, Microsoft Outlook is disconnected.

Your Microsoft Outlook client might be in handy, offline mode. Notably, Outlook comes with an option to work offline to avoid connection charges or sending/receiving emails due to a slow internet connection.

The offline mode could very well be the reason why Outlook is disconnected even though the internet is functioning properly.

Also, there are chances that the Outlook on your PC might have been disconnected from the Exchange server, which could result in this problem.

The availability of redundant extensions is also one of the key reasons for this problem. Some extensions may interfere with the connection process causing Outlook to misbehave.

It can be frustrating and annoying as it prevents you to send or receive emails. Thankfully, below we have listed some of the solutions that you can apply to fix this problem at hand.

Microsoft Outlook disconnected after password change

1. Delete old password from Windows Credential Manager

  1. Press the Start menu key on the bottom task bar.
  2. Search for Credential Manager.outlook disconnected error credential manager
  3. Click on Windows Credentials option.outlook disconnected error windows credential
  4. Under Generic Credentials, you will find your Microsoft Outlook and MS Office accounts.outlook disconnected error
  5. Expand each one and delete them by pressing the Remove button.outlook disconnected error
  6. Close Windows Credential Manager and open Outlook.
  7. Enter your new password and remember to check the Remember my credentials box.

Microsoft Outlook users have reported an issue quite often for them just after a recent password change, they are facing connectivity issues with the Outlook client installed on their Windows 11/10/8 PC.

Notably, this could be because the client isn’t updating the password that you have set. In such a case, you need to clear the old password from the Windows Credential Manager.

2. Create a new profile

  1. Open Control Panel.
  2. Select Mail.outlook disconnected error
  3. Click on Add to create a new profile.add new profile
  4. Configure your email account.
  5. Check the circle beside Always use this profile.always use this profile
  6. Press OK.
  7. Restart Outlook and see if this fixes the Outlook disconnected after password change issue or not.

How can I fix the Outlook disconnected error in Windows 11/10/7?

1. Restart your PC

  1. Press the Start menu button.Windows 11 Start menu
  2. Click on the Power button.shut down PC
  3. Select Restart.restart PC

One of the easiest solutions to many of the common problems related to software is to perform a simple restart.

Restarting not only provides your system a break, but it also loads all system and necessary files from scratch. There are chances that some Outlook files failed to load during the previous session, due to which you are experiencing Microsoft Outlook disconnected error.

2. Check and re-enter your account credentials

  1. Open the Outlook app on your PC.
  2. Click on File.outlook file tab
  3. Select Info.info
  4. Then besides Account and Social Network Settings, click Account Settings.account settings outlook disconnected error
  5. Again select Account Settings.account settings
  6. Select the account that you have connected.
  7. Remove the account and re-enter your account credentials.

3. Ensure Outlook is online

  1. Open the Outlook app.
  2. In the Send/Receive tab, hit the Work Offline button.outlook work offline
  3. Outlook will attempt to reconnect.

4. Remove trailing space from legacyExchangeDN

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type ADSIEdit.msc, and press Enter.run command
  3. Expand the Default naming context to CN=Users.
  4. Select the user account on which Outlook is prompting the error.
  5. Right-click and select Properties.
  6. Locate the legacyExchangeDN attribute, and then select Edit.edit legacy
  7. Remove the extra space at the end of the username.
  8. Click OK and Apply.
  9. Exit ADSIEdit.msc.
  10. Restart Outlook and see if this fixes the Outlook disconnected error or not.

After you remove the extra space from your username, all recipients who previously received a message from your username will get a non-delivery report (NDR) if they try to reply to the email with the old username.

5. Run Outloook in safe mode

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type outlook.exe/safe and hit Enter.
  3. Disable all installed add-ons.
  4. Restart the program and see if this fixes the issue.

6. Create a new Outlook profile

  1. Open the Microsoft Outlook application.
  2. Click File tab and select Account Settings.
  3. Select Manage Profiles.
  4. Click on Show Profile.
  5. Choose Add.
  6. Enter the name for your new Outlook profile and press OK.
  7. Add your email account to your Outlook profile.

7. Repair Outlook account

  1. Open the Outlook application.
  2. Click on the File tab.outlook disconnected error
  3. Select Info.outlook info tab
  4. Besides Account and Social Network Settings, click on Account settings.outlook disconnected error
  5. Select Account settings again from the drop-down menu.outlook account
  6. Select your account and hit the Repair button.repair outlook account

8. Configure a proxy server

  1. Open the Outlook application.
  2. Click on the File tab.outlook disconnected error
  3. Select Info.outlook info tab
  4. Besides Account and Social Network Settings, click on Account settings.outlook disconnected error
  5. Select Account settings again from the drop-down menu.outlook account
  6. Tap on your account and click on Change.
  7. Then click on More Settings.
  8. Choose Connection tab.
  9. Select the option to Connect to Microsoft Exchange using HTTP.
  10. Click on Exchange Proxy Settings.
  11. Enter the URL to connect to a proxy server.
  12. Select Connect using SSL only.
  13. Also select Only connect to proxy servers that have principal name in their certificate option.
  14. Enter must: URL.
  15. Under Proxy authentication settings, select authentication type Basic authentication or NTLM authentication and press OK.

9. Disable extensions

  1. Open the Outlook application.
  2. Click on the File tab.outlook disconnected error
  3. Select Options from the left side.outlook options
  4. Select Add-Ins from the left pane.add ins
  5. On the bottom, select Go.add ons go
  6. Uncheck all the extensions and hit the OK button.uncheck extensions

There are chances that the extensions that you have installed or enabled for your Outlook app to enhance the productivity and features might be interfering with the connection.

In such a case, following the above-mentioned steps, you can disable the extensions and then try to connect them.

10. Rebuild Outlook data file

  1. Open the Outlook application.
  2. Click on the File tab.outlook disconnected error
  3. Select Info.outlook info tab
  4. Besides Account and Social Network Settings, click on Account settings.outlook disconnected error
  5. Select Account settings again from the drop-down menu.outlook account
  6. Select the Data Files tab.
  7. Choose the email account that is causing the issue, then tap on Open File Location.
  8. Rename the file or move it to another location.
  9. Launch Outlook again and see if this fixes the Outlook disconnected error.

The Outlook application saves all the data in a particular folder. If you are experiencing connectivity issues, then you can try to rebuild the Outlook data file.

In this step, we will delete the old Outlook data file and rebuild the Outlook data file. This will help rebuild the missing or lost data files from scratch.

11. Reinstall Outlook

  1. Press Start menu and search for Control Panel.control panel
  2. Select Programs and Features.programs and features
  3. From the application manager, select Microsoft Office and hit the Change button.change microsoft office
  4. Select Repair and hit Continue.microsoft office repair
  5. The repair will start.

If none of the above-mentioned solutions did the job for you, then, as a last resort, you need to repair the Microsoft Office app on your PC.

Repairing Microsoft Office will fix the application and install files that might have gone missing. The last method is also helpful if you are facing Outlook shows disconnected in Office 365 error.

Microsoft Outlook is a pretty powerful work management tool, as it gives you multiple options, one of which is the option to download all your Outlook emails to Excel.

If you extensively use Outlook for all your work-related needs, it is very important to know how to recover deleted or archived Outlook messages in the event of encountering issues with this element, as users reported seeing this problem quite often.

Coming back to the features, you can also add multiple accounts to Outlook and manage them seamlessly.

This Outlook disconnected error or connectivity problem isn’t the only error that users come across now and then while using this app. We also have a guide on how to change Outlook view back to normal, so don’t miss it.

On the other hand, if you are not able to open the app and you are getting an error that says the set of folders cannot be opened, it is good to have an idea about how to deal with it.

Let us know in the comments section below, which of the above-mentioned methods helped you fix the Outlook disconnected issue on Windows 10, Windows 10, and Windows 7 PC.

Installed Steam DLC Does Not Work [Fast Fixes]

Does your installed Steam DLC not work? Several reasons can explain this and to easily get rid of this issue, make sure you completely verify today’s guide.

Steam, which is currently the most used PC gaming store, supports a large number of video games and extra downloadable content.

Some users have reported that DLCs on Steam might not work at all in-game, even if the DLC appears as installed. Let’s take a look at how to solve this issue.

What does DLC mean in Steam and how can I find it?

For those of you who don’t already know, DLC stands for downloadable content. It is additional digital content a player can install on top of a complete video game.

If a game offers additional downloadable content, you can find it on the store from the base game page or by searching for it.

In Steam, you can view and manage the DLC owned by your account in your library, as follows:

  1. Hit Windows, type Steam, then open the app.
  2. From the main menu, click on Library.
  3. Right-click on the game you need, then choose Properties.
  4. Now, select DLC in the window that appears.

How can I download DLC on Steam?

Keep in mind that most DLC purchased from Steam installs automatically. However, some games require DLC to be authorized through a third-party app. Plus, other games require a verification code to activate DLC.

Now, let’s see how you can easily download DLC on Steam:

  1. Press on the Windows key, type Steam, then open the app.
  2. Click on Library.
  3. From the left window pane, select the needed game, then click on the Store Page.
  4. Scroll down and select the DLC you want under Content for this game.
  5. Complete your purchase, then select Install content on the receipt page.

What can I do if my Steam DLC is not installing?

1. Check if your Steam DLC is installed properly

  1. If your DLC is already installed, you will need to uninstall it and follow the next steps to install it properly
  2. Open up your Steam game library and select the game on which you want to install the DLC
  3. Click on Manage my DLC on the left side of the screen
  4. Select the Enabled option under the DLC that you want to install
  5. The selected DLC should start automatically downloading and installing

2. Verify if there aren’t any connectivity issues

There may sometimes be connectivity issues involved if your Steam DLC is installed, but not working. This is usually a result of Steam‘s servers being down or not functioning properly.

This may cause the DLC to appear as downloaded and installed, but not work in the game.

To fix this issue, check if Steam‘s servers are working properly on the app’s official status page.

If there are no Steam issues with the server, there might be an issue with your connectivity.

In case your Internet experiences slowdowns, this may affect Steam DLC installation. If you’re on a Wi-Fi connection, try using an Ethernet cable instead of downloading your Steam content.

3. Inspect the integrity of game files

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the desktop client.
  2. From the main shown menu, click on Library.
  3. Right-click on the needed games, then select Properties.
  4. From the left window pane, head over to the Local Files tab.
  5. Click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  6. This will prompt Steam to verify the game is installed correctly and fix any game file errors

4. Reinstall the Steam game

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the desktop client.
  2. From the main menu, click on Library.
  3. Select your game in the Steam library, then right-click on it.
  4. Choose Manage, and then Uninstall.
  5. After the game has been uninstalled, download and install the game again on Steam, then reinstall your DLC’s

How do I download DLC on Steam without launching a game?

Many users are interested in whether or not they can download DLC on Steam without launching a game.

If you’re in the same boat, keep in mind that the only option you can try is to click on the Download button from a browser instead of Steam.

This ends up adding the license to your account instead of directly launching the game. You’ll get a message similar to the above one:

Product name is now registered to your account on Steam.

Steam DLCs should be fairly easy to install, however, if you’ve encountered issues with the installation, our guide provides the key solutions to this problem. Alternatively, you can get a refund on your DLC provided you meet the refund requirements.

In case of any related questions, do not hesitate to leave a comment in the dedicated section below.

HP Envy x360 touchscreen not working [Quick fix]

When working properly, a touchscreen on a laptop or Windows tablet may be extremely useful and productive. However, users have been reporting that their HP Envy x360 touchscreen is not working as it should, thus we will address this issue today.

If your touchscreen isn’t responding at all, don’t forget to resort to the most basic solution which is restarting your computer. Don’t fall short for the general idea that restarting a device is useless. Most IT professionals will tell you that it solves more errors than you have previously thought.

This being said, we have prepared a list of methods that you can try in order to fix the HP Envy x360 touchscreen not working in Windows 11 error, right after we see the benefits of having a touchscreen laptop. Follow along!

What are the benefits of a touchscreen laptop?

A primary goal in developing the touchscreen capability on laptops was to make navigating simpler and more convenient for users. When compared to trackpads and mouse devices, this functionality allows users to complete a plethora of tasks.

Also made easier is the process of starting up applications and switching between them. It is easier for artists and graphic designers to use a touchscreen feature on their laptops since it allows them to work more quickly and efficiently.

When compared to regular computers, touchscreen laptops frequently have superior brightness as well as improved color accuracy, vibrancy, and reproduction. The majority of models that include this feature also have displays with greater resolutions than the competition.

However, in order to accommodate the addition of a touch panel, laptops with touchscreen capabilities are designed to perform an additional set of processing duties on the computer’s hardware. If you intend to utilize this feature on a regular basis, you should keep a backup battery on hand.

How can I fix HP Envy x360 touchscreen not working?

1. Enable the driver

  1. To open Device Manager, you need to right-click on the Start icon then click on it.device-man hp envy microphone not working
  2. Click on the Human Interface Devices section then right click on the HID compliant touchscreen option. Now click on Enable. In my case it is already enabled, hence the Disable option.enable-touchscreen hp envy touchscreen not working

2. Driver update

  1. Start by right-clicking on the Start icon then click on Device Manager to open it.device-man hp envy microphone not working
  2. Expand the Human Interface Devices section then right click on the HID compliant touchscreen option, and lastly click on Update driver.update-touchscreen hp envy touchscreen not working
  3. Select Search automatically for updated driver software and wait for your OS to install the apropriate driver.

Make sure to wait for the processes to finish before restarting your computer to verify that the changes are applied appropriately. In order to avoid manually upgrading your drivers and save time, we strongly recommend that you use a specialist driver update application, such as Outbyte Driver Updater.

3. Update Windows

  1. Tap on the Windows key + I to open the Settings app, then select Windows Update as we have shown below.windows-update windows 11 dynamic refresh rate not working
  2. Select the Install now option to install any new updates that are necessary to be downloaded. Otherwise, use the Check for updates button.check-for-updates windows 11 dynamic refresh rate not working

For more information and further solutions that could fix your issue, take a look at our article on Windows 11’s touchscreen not working.

Alternatively, for Lenovo Edge 15’s users whose touchscreen doesn’t work, we have already prepared a comprehensive guide for you to follow.

And lastly, if you find that the split-screen feature isn’t working anymore in Windows 11, make sure not to miss out on the link anchored in order to solve the error.

Don’t hesitate to tell us what you think about this guide in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!

Fix: This driver can’t release to failure [Full Guide]

This driver can’t release to failure is an error message that more specifically pertains to Gigabyte motherboards.

Some users have stated that the error message pops up after upgrading to Windows 10.

The error message is usually due to a motherboard‘s lack of built-in Wi-Fi, which is something required for the Gigabyte App Center’s Cloud Station Server.

Here are a few resolutions that can fix this Gigabyte motherboard error in Windows 10.

How do I fix the This driver can’t release to failure error?

  1. Update the Motherboard Drivers
  2. Switch off the Always run on next reboot setting
  3. Reinstall Gigabyte Services via Command Prompt
  4. Update the App Center
  5. Uninstall the App Center

1. Update the Motherboard Drivers

You might need to update your Gigabyte motherboard drivers to fix the driver can’t release error message. However, the motherboard has various drivers.

As such, it’s probably better to utilize driver-updating software to ensure the motherboard drivers are updated. This includes updating old ones, fixing broken ones, and replacing missing ones.

2. Switch off the Always run on next reboot setting

  1. First, open the Gigabyte App Center via the Windows system tray.
  2. Then click the Cloud Station Server tab at the bottom of the app.
  3. Switch off the Always run on next reboot setting for the Cloud Station Server.
  4. Select the OC tab for Remote OC, and switch the Always run on next reboot option off.
  5. Then select the Gigabyte Remote tab, and turn off the Always run on next reboot option.
  6. Restart your desktop or laptop.

As mentioned, the Cloud Station Server is one component of the Gigabyte App Center that requires onboard Wi-Fi. The Remote OC and Gigabyte Remote are two are components that also need onboard Wi-Fi.

Thus, switching those components off can fix the issue.

3. Reinstall Gigabyte Services via Command Prompt

  1. Press the Win key + X hotkey.
  2. Then select Command Prompt (Admin) to open the Prompt.
  3. Input sc delete gdrv in the Prompt, and press the Return key.
  4. Enter the following line, and press Enter:

'sc create gdrv binPath= "C:Windowsgdrv.sys" type= "kernel" DisplayName= "gdrv"' and Return to reinstall the services.


Alternatively, reinstalling Gigabyte services might also resolve the issue.

4. Update the App Center

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 10, update the App Center to ensure that its compatible with the latest platform.

You can do that by pressing the GIGABYTE App Center Utility Download button on this page.

Then open the installer for the app to add the latest App Center version to Windows.

5. Uninstall the App Center

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open Run.
  2. Enter appwiz.cpl in Run and click OK to open the uninstaller window in the snapshot directly below.
  3. Now select the Gigabyte App Center software, and press its Uninstall button.
  4. Press the Yes button for further confirmation.
  5. Then restart Windows after removing the App Center.

Some users have resolved the Gigabyte motherboard error message by removing the App Center from Windows. But there are also a few users who struggle with this. If that’s also your case, read on.

Can’t uninstall the Gigabyte app center

Using the Control Panel to remove a no longer wanted program (as shown above) is quick and easy, but it seems that not everyone can successfully use this option.

For some, the Gigabyte app center won’t uninstall no matter what they do. So, here’s what we suggest:

  1. Clean boot your computer and manually delete the entire folder from C:\Program Files (x86)\Gigabyte\AppCenter directory
  2. Use a good registry cleaner tool to remove any hanging, broken, or superfluous keys that might linger on.
  3. Finally, use a professional uninstaller tool that takes care of all the leftovers for you.

One, or more, of those resolutions, will probably fix the driver can’t release error in Windows 10. If you have any further suggestions for fixing the Gigabyte motherboard error, feel free to share them below.

How to Download & Install OptiFine on Windows 11

OptiFine is a mod that should not be missed by any player, whether they are experienced players who enjoy modding their Minecraft or new players who are just starting. Thus, today we will show you how to download OptiFine on Windows 11 as well as how to run it.

It’s important to note that, even though Minecraft is a pretty simple game at its heart, its environments are full of intricacies and physics that your PC must still calculate, making it difficult to play on low-end computers in particular.

It is one of the earliest optimization mods, and it has become such a mainstay in the Minecraft modding community that other popular mods now require it as a prerequisite for their functionality.

The likelihood is that you will want OptiFine if you plan on modding your game, adding shaders, or making other cosmetic modifications such as texture packs to your game. Follow along!

How can I optimize games?

Your graphics card is one of the most important components of your desktop or laptop computer. The graphics processing unit (GPU) is responsible for drawing every single pixel on your screen, whether it’s the Windows interface, websites, movies, or games.

drivers how to download optifine windows 11

It is necessary to have a driver installed on your computer because it allows your operating system — most likely Windows — to communicate with the hardware on your computer, such as your graphics card.

Moreover, keeping your graphics driver up to date is essential for getting the best performance out of your computer, your games, and any other graphics-intensive tasks you may be performing on it.

You can get a performance boost, repair problems, and sometimes even gain access to whole new features by updating your graphics driver. All of this can be accomplished for free if you update them manually, or at a low cost if you choose to use an automatic driver updater such as Outbyte Driver Updater.

How can I download OptiFine on Windows 11?

Use their official website

  1. Start by navigating to OptiFine’s website where you will find the downloads page.optifine-home how to download optifine windows 11
  2. Now click on Downloads as we have shown below and click on the button with the same name that’s next to OptiFine HD U H5.optifine-download how to download optifine windows 11
  3. Latly, save the file and double-click on it in order to run it.optifine-run how to download optifine windows 11

Why can’t I open OptiFine?

Developed by Sun Microsystems, Java is a programming language and computing platform that was initially released in 1995.

Through the provision of a dependable platform around which numerous services and applications are built, it has progressed from humble origins to power a significant portion of today’s digital world.

In the Java Runtime Environment, the Java Plug-in software is a component of the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). It enables some applications written in the Java programming language to be launched through certain web browsers.

And such is the software we have previously downloaded. To open OptiFine, you need to download Java and run the software with it.

For more information on how to fix failed installations, take a look at our post on can’t install Game Pass games on PC.

On the same note, if you can’t download games from Xbox Game Pass on Windows 11, don’t hesitate to access our article on learning what to do in this scenario.

And lastly, for our FIFA enthusiasts, check out our guide on how to fix FIFA 16 issues on Windows 10/11.

Don’t hesitate to tell us what you think in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!

FIX: Steam does not remember my password [7 solutions]

Many gamers claimed that Steam does not remember their password, and it can be pretty annoying to input it every time you access the app.

That’s why users are interested in discovering how they can make Steam remember passwords on their home desktops and laptops.

Otherwise, it becomes a drag to always have to log in every time you turn on your PC.

Here’s how people describe today’s issue:

It’s happening for around 1 month now, steam doesn’t remember my password and I have Steam guard active and its real pain logging in all the time.

Don’t worry since we’re here to set you on the right path and help you solve this problem.

What are Steam password requirements?

In order to have a strong password on Steam, you need to meet some specific requirements, as follows:

  • At least 6 characters
  • A combination of upper and lowercase letters
  • Include at least one number

All of the above criteria will certify your security and privacy and without them, you won’t be able to create or access your account.

Plus, to ensure your maximum security on Steam, you should also carefully take advantage of these recommendations:

  • Enable Steam Guard two-facto authentification
  • Verify your contact email address with Steam

What else should I know about my Steam password?

What can I do if Steam doesn’t remember my password?

1. Save account credentials on your PC

  1. Hti the Windows key, type Steam, and click on the first result.
  2. From the top-left corner of the window, click on Steam.
  3. Now, go to Settings.
  4. Fron the left window pane, select Account.
  5. Uncheck the Don’t save account credentials on this computer option from the right pane of the window.
  6. Click OK

2. Log in to Steam twice

  1. Fire up Steam and log in without asking it to save your password.
  2. Exit Steam right after the gaming platform loads (don’t launch any games).
  3. Log in to Steam again but ask it to remember your password now.

This simple workaround seems to work for some users. It might have something to do with refreshing the Steam login settings and game cache.

3. Delete the Steam local folder

  1. Use the following keyboard shortcut to open File Explorer: Windows + E.
  2. In the search bar, input this location: C:\Users\YOURUSER\AppData\Local. Make sure to replace YOURUSER with the username registered of your PC.
  3. Once you reach this location, select and delete the Steam folder.

4. Disable your VPN service

If you’re using a VPN to protect your online privacy and keep your device safe from hackers, it could be the reason why Steam keeps forgetting your password.

Because you’re logging in from a new IP address in a foreign country, Steam could interpret this as suspicious activity.

In this case, make sure to deactivate your VPN service before launching Steam on your PC.

But it’s not a permanent solution because you won’t be able to use your VPN while playing Steam games.

5. Use a VPN with split tunneling

A more viable fix to the VPN issue is to turn to a VPN service that supports split tunneling mode.

You can set up Steam to directly connect to the Internet and the remaining apps to the secure tunnel.

This way, you can still take advantage of the VPN benefits outside of Steam, like safely downloading or uploading torrents by protecting your true identity in the torrent swarm.

But you will have a hard time (if not impossible) finding a free VPN with split tunneling. Instead, we suggest investing in a reliable VPN service like Private Internet Access.

This VPN offers over 22,000 VPN and proxy servers in more than 77 countries. So, finding one that is close to your current locations won’t be a problem.

PIA uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols with up to military-grade 256-bit AES encryption.

It works amazingly on restricted platforms like Netflix US, HBO Mas, and other streaming services that don’t allow you to view specific content from certain locations.

Also, as it is specially designed to protect up to 10 devices using the same account, we strongly recommend sharing the experience with your close ones.

The most important features of PIA:

  • Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols and 256-bit AES encryption
  • Unblocks Netflix US, HBO Max, and other streaming services
  • Protect up to 10 devices using the same account
  • A zero-logging privacy policy
  • 24/7 live chat support

Private Internet Access

With PIA, you won’t have to worry about Steam password-related troubles, and if you don’t like it, manufacturers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
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6. Don’t switch Wi-Fi networks too often

If you have a gigabit router at home, it’s likely that you have enabled two Wi-Fi networks: 5GHz and 2,4GHz.

Maybe your laptop is connecting to the 5GHz when you’re closer to the router but switches to the 2,4GHz network when you move farther away.

If you frequently connect to different Wi-Fi networks, it could be the reason why Steam fails to remember your password. It could perceive the network change as a hacker attempt.

To solve this matter at home, make sure that your laptop always connects to the same Wi-Fi network (5GHz is faster, 2,4GHz is more reliable for long distances to the router).

For any unused Wi-Fi network, head over to its settings on Windows 10 and disable Connect automatically when in range. Switching from Wi-Fi to cable mode is even better.

7. Set up a static IP address

Home networks with dynamic IP addresses could fool Steam into thinking that an unauthorized user is trying to log in to your account.

As a result, Steam always asks you to input your password, in order to verify that it’s really you. It happens because your IP address changes frequently. Switching to a static IP address might repair this issue.

With Private Internet Access, you can get a dedicated IP address for an extra cost, drop split tunneling mode, and play Steam games from your own IP address that no one else uses.

Why do I have to enter a Steam Guard code every time I log in?

It seems like many Steam users also reported that they need to enter a Steam Guard code every time they log in, and it can be pretty annoying and time-consuming.

With Steam Guard, the app saves a cookie to remember your PC or browser. Your browser must have cookies enabled for Steam Guard to work properly.

If you are being repeatedly asked for a Steam Guard code on the same computer, you will need to ensure your browser has cookies enabled.

Here is how you can turn them on the most popular available browsers:

1. Google Chrome

  1. Hit Windows, type Chrome, then open the browser.
  2. From the top-right corner of the window, click on the 3-dots menu, then navigate to Settings.
  3. From the left window pane choose Security and Privacy.
  4. In the right window pane, click on Cookies and other site data.
  5. Make sure that the Allow all cookies option is marked.

2. Mozilla Firefox

  1. Press on the Windows key, type Firefox, then open the first result.
  2. From the top-right corner of the page, click on the 3 horizontal lines, then navigate to Firefox Settings.
  3. Select Privacy & Security located in the left window pane.
  4. In the Browser Privacy section, checkmark the Custom option, then make sure the Cookies section is enabled.

3. Microsoft Edge

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Edge, then open it.
  2. From the top-right corner of the window, select the 3-dots menu.
  3. Go to Settings.
  4. Click on Cookies and site permissions located in the left side of the window. Then, from the right window pane choose to Manage and delete cookies and site data.
  5. Enable the Allow sites to save and read cookie data (recommended) option.

4. Opera

  1. Hit Windows, type Opera, then click on the first result.
  2. Use the following keyboard shortcut to open Opera Settings: Alt + P.
  3. Scroll down, then hoose Cookies and other site data.
  4. Checkmark the Allow all cookies option.

To summarize, if you can’t get Steam to remember your password every time you want to play games, make sure to disable the Don’t save account credentials on this computer option.

You can sign in to Steam twice (without checking the remember option in the first attempt). Another solution is to delete the Steam local folder from your machine.

It’s also a good idea to disable your VPN service or use a VPN with split tunnelling, always connect to the same Wi-Fi network, and set up a static IP address. For any other Steam sign-in errors, check out our fix article.

You can also review this guide on Steam password reset problems to fix cases where the platform will not let you update your account password.

Did these solutions work for you? What else have you tried that actually worked? Let us know in the comment section below.

Is Steam Link not going full screen? Here’s the solution

Playing games on a bigger screen is one of the main reasons people use Steam Link. Many users want to see their favorite Windows games on a greater resolution on their TV to enhance the gaming experience.

However, they encountered a major issue. Steam Link won’t go full screen on TV devices.

According to them, this problem appears because the screen resolutions from the computer and the TV are different. Also, the in-game resolution might not be compatible with the TV or HDMI monitor resolution.

Still, some people said that the games displayed a full screen once they start, but this is not always the case.

This issue is an important setback for your gaming experience and today we will show you how to solve this problem.

How can I force something to go full screen?

Before discovering certain steps to make your Steam Link go full screen, you should know that the easiest way to force something go full screen is by using this keyboard shortcut: Alt + Enter.

Sometimes, you’ll probably need to use the F11 key.

This method works for most games and apps unless they use it to enable other features.

Do not forget that you can also simultaneously press on these two keys to switch from full-screen mode to windowed.

1. Change the resolution

  1. Use the following keyboard shortcut to open the Windows search bar: Windows + S.
  2. Search for Steam, then open it.
  3. From the top-left corner of the window, click on Steam.
  4. Now, go to Settings.
  5. Go to the In-Home Streaming tab and select the Advanced host options.
  6. Check the box for change desktop resolution to match the client.
  7. In games, set the resolution to 1920×1080.

2. Twitch some settings in the Steam menu

  1. Go to the Steam menu on your PC.
  2. Select the In-Home-Streaming option, then go to the Advanced host options.
  3. Deactivate hardware encoding.
  4. Restart the Steam Link streaming.

This is a problem that comes in different forms (literally). In other words, your Steam Link won’t go full screen in various ways.

For example, some users encountered that the left and right margins of the TV screen remained black, while the rest displayed the game correctly.

This is a fortunate situation, but not all examples are the same. Other users reported that the image is much smaller than the screen and also is not displaying in the center of the monitor.

Why won’t my Steam game go full screen?

Well, you should know that Steam Link might not be the only feature that sometimes might not be able to go full screen. Some users reported this issue appearing while playing their favorite games on Steam.

If you ever face it, make sure you check the screen resolution and the text size directly related to the harmed game.

In other cases, you might need to carefully customize certain options like full-screen optimization.

So, for these people, not showing the full screen in Steam Link is a major problem that makes them return to traditional PC gaming.

Moreover, the culprit might be your HDMI monitor. The default resolution for your display is not compatible with Steam Link. 

Try another monitor to see if you can replicate the issue. In this matter, we strongly recommend checking the best cheapest HDMI monitors to buy.

In case your Steam Link is not working, do not hesitate to check a useful guide. We also have a guide on what to do if you encounter Streaming error couldn’t connect to relay message.

Did our article help you? What resolutions are you using in Steam Link? Do let us know in the comments section below!

Steam doesn’t show what game I’m playing [Quick fix]

Steam is one of the biggest gaming platforms for PC, millions of gamers use Valve’s platform to download and play games daily. However, some users reported that Steam does not show what game users are currently playing.

Just like other gaming platforms, Steam can inform your friends about your current activity which makes it easier to find friends to play with.

An issue about this feature has been reported by many players though, not allowing them to show their gaming activity.

How does the Steam doesn’t show game playing error manifest?

To be sure that you’re experiencing the same issue, take a look at how one user described today’s issue on Reddit:

Not sure what happened with Steam recently, but my status is permanently stuck as Online, so when I start playing a game my friends aren’t notified and if I’m online they can’t see what I’m doing.

Fortunately, we were able to come up with a guide on how to fix this problem.

What can I do if Steam does not show what I am playing?

Change your Privacy Settings

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the desktop client.
  2. From the top-right corner of the window, click on your Steam profile.
  3. Now, choose to View my profile.
  4. From the left window pane, go to Privacy Settings.
  5. Under My Profile, find Game Details, if you have it set as Private, change it to Friends Only.
  6. Save changes, and check if the problem is resolved.

To make sure that your friends can see what game you are playing, you need to enable a specific feature in your Privacy Settings.

When you install Steam, by default, it has your Privacy Settings set to Private. This makes your gaming activity invisible to your friends.

What games can I play on Steam?

Steam offers a variety of games and you can sort them according to the category you’re most excited about. In this matter, these are the categories you can find:

  • Action and adventure – CS, Lost Ark, Destiny 2, GTA V, Forza Horizon 5, Cyberpunk 2077 and many others.
  • Casual – The Sims 4, Cities: Skylines, Planet Zoo, Vampire Survivors, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, and so on.
  • Early Access – PUBG: Battlegrounds, Rust, Ready or not, Project Zomboid, Raft, The Forest, etc.
  • Free to play – Apex Legends, Destiny 2, Dota 2, War Thunder, Star Wars: The Old Republic, and many more.
  • Indie – Rust, Dread Hunger, Hades, Project Zomboid, Phasmophobia, etc.
  • Racing – GTA V, Forza Horizon 4 and 5, BeamNG.drive, iRacing, and many others.
  • Sports – FIFA 22, NBA 2K22, Football Manager 2022, theHunter: Call of the Wild, etc.

If Steam does not show you’re currently playing, the issue is most likely related to your privacy settings, so you need to adjust them to share your gaming activity with your friends.

In case you were able to get it working, leave us in the comment section below

Steam Link not working [Easy Fix]

Steam Link represents a great way to stream games from PC to your TV. For many users, this piece of hardware works perfectly and is easy to use.

However, quite a few users encountered a major issue: Steam Link is not working. Users reported the message No Signal appearing on a black background on their TV.

Also, some said that Steam Link works for a second, and then it is all over when the black screen appears. There is some activity from the controller at the beginning, so we know it’s receiving a signal.

Fortunately, you can solve this error in no time and today we will show you how later in this guide.

Dose Steam Link work only on LAN ?

Keep in mind that Steam Link is not built as a LAN-only feature. You can extend your gaming experience to your mobile device TV or any other computer.

All you’ll need is a local network or a stable Internet connection.

Plus, do not forget that Steam Link now supports Remote Play Together which allows you to invite your Steam Friends to join your local co-op sessions remotely. This happens without being necessary to own or launch the game by themselves.

With the Steam Link app, you can extend your Remote Play Together access to any supported devices with the installed app.

What can I do if Steam Link is not working?

1. Unplug everything

  1. Unplug all the cables from Steam Link.
  2. Plug only the power cable.
  3. Wait at least 30 seconds.
  4. Plug the HDMI again and check to see if anything changed.

2. Replace the HDMI cable

Nothing is forever, and the HDMI cable is no exception. We all know how fragile some pieces of hardware are, so there is no surprise if Steam Link is not working because of a faulty cable.

So, many users reported that the HDMI cable was the culprit. Replace it with a new one. Choose wisely the best HDMI cables from our list for enhanced performance.

You might also check if other cables or other components of Steam Link are intact.

As you can see, this is more of a hardware problem that can be solved pretty easily by unplugging and plugging back everything.

Also, your HDMI cable could be old and worn out so connection issues might appear. Replace your duff HMDI cable with a new one if thatțs the case.

What other Steam Link issues should I be aware of?

Indeed, Steam Link might sometimes not work as expected, but let’s see what are the most common specific related errors:

  • Steam Link won’t go full screen – According to some users, this issue appears because the screen resolutions from the computer and the TV are different. Also, the in-game resolution might not be compatible with the TV or HDMI monitor resolution.
  • Steam Link not recognizing controllers – It is worth mentioning that this issue appeared on wired controllers, so it’s important to make sure you use the right device. Fortunately, if you check our dedicated guide, you’ll discover all the controllers models that work with the Steam app.

So, there you have it: two easy solutions for a major issue. Moreover, make sure your hardware is intact and change any component if necessary.

Did our article help you? Did you find another method to solve this problem? Do let us know in the comments section below.